bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A ready-to-use logistic Verhulst model implemented in R shiny to estimate growth parameters of microorganisms
Authors: Garel Marc , Izard Lloyd , Vienne Marthe , Nerini David , Ali Badr Al , Tamburini Christian , Martini Séverine
Published: July 2022

In microbiology, the estimation of the growth rate of microorganisms is a critical parameter to describe a new strain or characterize optimal growth conditions. Traditionally, this parameter is estimated by selecting subjectively the exponential phase of the growth, and then determining the slope of this curve section, by linear regression. However, for some experiments, the number of points to describe the growth can be very limited, and consequently such linear model will not fit, or the parameters estimation can much lower and strongly variable. In this paper, we propose a tools to estimate growth parameters using a logistic Verhulst model that take into account the entire growth curve for the estimation of the growth rate. The efficiency of such model is compared to the linear model. Finally, the novelty of our work is to propose a “Shiny-web application”, online, without any programming or modelling skills, to allow estimating growth parameters including growth rate, maximum population, and beginning of the exponential phase, as well as an estimation of their variability. The final results can be displayed in the form of a scatter plot representing the model, its efficiency and the estimated parameters are downloadable.
miR167-ARF8, an auxin-responsive module involved in the formation of root-knot nematode-induced galls in tomato
Authors: Noureddine Yara , Rocha Martine da , An Jing , Médina Clémence , Mejias Joffrey , Mulet Karine , Quentin Michael , Abad Pierre , Zouine Mohamed , Favery Bruno , Jaubert-Possamai Stéphanie
Published: July 2022

Root-knot nematodes (RKN) from genus Meloidogyne induce the dedifferentiation of root vascular cells into giant multinucleate feeding cells. These feeding cells result from an extensive reprogramming of gene expression in targeted root cells, as shown by transcriptomic analyses of galls or giant cells from various plant species.

Small non-coding RNAs, and messenger RNAs from tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) galls and uninfected roots were sequenced. De novo microRNA prediction in the tomato genome identified microRNAs expressed in galls and uninfected roots. Statistical analyses identified 174 miRNA genes differentially expressed in galls at 7 and/or 14 days post infection (dpi).

Integrative analyses combining small non-coding RNA and transcriptome datasets with the specific sequencing of cleaved transcripts identified miRNA targets in tomato galls. Functional analyses of promoter-GUS fusions and CRISPR-Cas9 mutants highlighted the role of the miR167-regulated transcription factor AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 8 (ARF8) in giant cell formation.
Proton and alpha radiation-induced mutational profiles in human cells
Authors: Delhomme Tiffany M. , Munteanu Maia , Buonanno Manuela , Grilj Veljko , Biayna Josep , Supek Fran
Published: July 2022

Ionizing radiation (IR) is known to be DNA damaging and mutagenic, however less is known about which mutational footprints result from exposures of human cells to different types of IR. We were interested in the mutagenic effects of particle radiation exposures on genomes of various human cell types, in order to gauge the genotoxic risks of galactic cosmic radiation, and of certain types of tumor radiotherapy. To this end, we exposed cultured cell lines from the human blood, breast and lung to intermittent proton and alpha particle (helium nuclei) beams at doses sufficient to considerably affect cell viability. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that mutation rates were not overall markedly increased upon proton and alpha exposures. However, there were changes in mutation spectra and distributions, such as the increases in clustered mutations and of certain types of indels and structural variants. The spectrum of mutagenic effects of particle beams may be cell-type and/or genetic background specific. Overall, the mutational effects of recurrent exposures to proton and alpha radiation on human cells in culture appear subtle, however further work is warranted to understand effects of long-term exposures on various human tissues.
Identification of an A20 critical region harboring missense variations that lead to autoinflammation
Authors: El Khouri Elma , Louvrier Camille , Assrawi Eman , Nguyen Alexandre , Piterboth William , Deshayes Samuel , Desdoits Alexandra , Copin Bruno , Le Moal Florence Dastot , Karabina Sonia-Athina , Amselem Serge , Aouba Achille , Giurgea Irina
Published: July 2022

A20 haploinsufficiency (HA20) is an autoinflammatory disease caused by heterozygous loss-of-function variations in TNFAIP3, the gene encoding the A20 protein. Diagnosis of HA20 is challenging due to its heterogeneous clinical presentation and the lack of pathognomonic symptoms. While the pathogenic effect of TNFAIP3 truncating variations is clearly established, that of missense variations is difficult to determine. Herein, we identified a novel TNFAIP3 variation, p.(Leu236Pro), located in the A20 Ovarian Tumor (OTU) domain and demonstrated its pathogenicity. In the patients’ primary cells, we observed reduced A20 levels explained by enhanced degradation. We showed a disrupted ability of A20_Leu236Pro to inhibit the NF-κB pathway. Review of previously reported TNFAIP3 missense variations revealed that only 3/7 are pathogenic. Through structural modeling we showed that the residues involved in OTU pathogenic missense variations establish common interactions. Interpretation of newly identified missense variations is challenging, requiring, as illustrated here, functional demonstration of their pathogenicity. Together with functional studies, in-silico structure analysis is a valuable approach that allowed us to unveil a region within the OTU domain critical for A20 function.
De novo assembly and annotation of the singing mouse genome
Authors: Smith Samantha K. , Frazel Paul W. , Khodadadi-Jamayran Alireza , Zappile Paul , Marier Christian , Okhovat Mariam , Brown Stuart , Long Michael A. , Heguy Adriana , Phelps Steven M
Published: July 2022

Background

Developing genomic resources for a diverse range of species is an important step towards understanding the mechanisms underlying complex traits.Specifically, organisms that exhibit unique, accessible phenotypes-of-interests, allow researchers to address questions that may be ill-suited to traditional model organisms. We sequenced the genome and transcriptome of Alston’s singing mouse (Scotinomys teguina), an emerging model for social cognition and vocal communication. In addition to producing advertisement songs used for mate attraction and male-male competition, these rodents are diurnal, live at high-altitudes, and are obligate insectivores, providing opportunities to explore diverse physiological, ecological, and evolutionary questions.

Results

Using PromethION, Illumina, and PacBio sequencing, we produced an annotated genome and transcriptome, which were validated using gene expression and functional enrichment analyses. To assess the usefulness of our assemblies, we performed single nuclei sequencing on cells of the orofacial motor cortex, a brain region implicated in song coordination, identifying 12 cell types.

Conclusions

These resources will provide the opportunity to identify the molecular basis of complex traits in singing mice as well as to contribute data that can be used for large-scale comparative analyses.
Success in collaborative construction through the lens of project delivery elements
Authors: Moradi Sina , Kähkönen Kalle
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The emergence of collaborative delivery models and working practices in construction industry has created a potential area for project success research. Previous studies have addressed success factors of various collaborative delivery models (e.g. alliance and partnering). However, there is currently very limited research-based knowledge concerning core success factors for different collaborative delivery models, exploring the commonalities. Thus, this study aims to conceptualize a success model for collaborative construction projects by identifying and structuring their core success factors through the lens of project delivery elements.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted, and thematic as well as content analysis of the relevant studies led to the identification of mentioned success factors in the literature for different collaborative delivery models. Then, those common success factors were structured in a model based on factors' relation to project delivery elements.

Findings

The obtained results present eight core success factors (e.g. equality, mutual trust and commitment to win–win philosophy) for collaborative construction projects, structured in a model based on their contribution toward project organization, contractual relationships, and operational system in construction project delivery. Moreover, the differences between success factors for traditional and collaborative construction projects are discussed.

Originality/value

This study's findings provide insightful theoretical contributions on collaborative construction project success and providing a departure point for future studies based on the discussed differences between success factors of collaborative and traditional construction projects. The findings can be also practically insightful for the project professionals in collaborative construction projects to succeed in managing project organization, contractual relationships, and operational system.
The method and its applications of determining possibility function of grey set
Authors: Li Li , Li Xican
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Grey set is the important foundation of the grey mathematics and grey system theory, and the possibility function is the way of expressing grey set. This paper aims to establish the method of determining the possibility function of grey set and discusses its extended applications.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the grey kernel and the grey support set of grey set are defined, and the properties of grey kernel are analyzed. Second, according to the decomposition theorem of grey set, a method of determining the possibility function of grey set is put forward in this paper, which is called the method of increasing information and taking maximum and minimum (IITMM), and then it is further simplified as the method of increasing information and taking maximum (IITM), and an simple example is given to illustrate the calculation procedure. Finally, the grey information cluster method (GICM) based on IITM is proposed and applied to the ecological and geographical environment analysis of pine caterpillar.

Findings

The results show that the grey kernel of grey set still has grey uncertainty; the method of IITM has simple calculation and strict mathematical basis, and it can synthesize the information of the research object and accords with the principle of using minimum information; the GICM and the fuzzy cluster method have the same classification effect.

Practical implications

The researches show that method of IITM can be used not only to determine the possibility function of the grey set effectively, but also be used for the evaluation and cluster analysis of connotative objects. The classification result of the GICM presented in this paper is more precise than that of the fuzzy cluster method.

Originality/value

The paper succeeds in realizing both the IITM method for determining the possibility function of grey set and the GICM based on IITM for the connotative objects.
How omnichannel integration promotes customer word-of-mouth behaviors: the mediating roles of perceived personal preference fit and perceived social relatedness
Authors: Li Yang , Tan Ran , Gong Xiang
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the psychological mediating mechanisms through which omnichannel integration affects customer word-of-mouth (WOM) behaviors in omnichannel retailing.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by prior omnichannel retailing studies, the authors identify taxonomy of customer WOM behaviors with three archetypes, namely, face-to-face WOM, online store WOM, and social media WOM. Then, the authors draw on social exchange theory (SET) to explain how omnichannel integration influences customer WOM behaviors through the mediating roles of perceived personal preference fit and perceived social relatedness. The authors empirically tested the model using structural equation modeling and multiple mediation analysis with a field survey of 335 omnichannel customers.

Findings

Perceived personal preference fit positively influences face-to-face WOM and social media WOM, whereas perceived social relatedness is positively associated with face-to-face WOM, online store WOM, and social media WOM. Furthermore, transactional integration and relational integration positively affect perceived personal preference fit, whereas relational integration has a positive effect on perceived social relatedness. Finally, perceived personal preference fit mediates the effects of transactional integration and relational integration on face-to-face WOM and social media WOM. Perceived social relatedness mediates the effects of relational integration on face-to-face WOM, online store WOM, and social media WOM.

Originality/value

The authors' study advances the omnichannel retailing literature by proposing a taxonomy of customer WOM behaviors in omnichannel retailing and identifying the mediating mechanisms through which omnichannel integration influences customer WOM behaviors.
An empirical analysis of the profitability of backshoring initiatives to Europe
Authors: Ancarani Alessandro , Di Mauro Carmela , Gitto Simone
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The study investigates the profitability of manufacturing firms backshoring (BS) to Europe. In particular, the article analyses the relation between BS drivers and post-relocation profitability and tests whether this relation is moderated by innovation policies that firms adopt in conjunction with BS.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical model links the post-relocation profitability to BS drivers, firms’ involvement in product innovation and/or adoption of new manufacturing technologies. Data concerning BS initiatives to Europe between 2012 and 2018 extracted from secondary sources have been matched to firms’ balance sheet data.

Findings

Results show that responsiveness-driven BS is associated with higher profitability when the relocation is coupled with product innovation. A second key finding is that the adoption of new manufacturing technologies has a positive impact on post-BS profitability.

Research limitations/implications

The restriction of the dataset to firms for which information on post- and pre-BS financial performance was available has led to a small sample size. Availability of longer time series of profitability data will allow estimating long-term impact, especially for innovation.

Practical implications

The study provides first evidence on the impact of BS on financial performance and throws light on the relevance of innovation as a lever supporting manufacturing relocation to high-cost countries.

Originality/value

The study advances empirical research on BS by offering evidence of its impact on profitability and by linking it to previous research on BS drivers. Further, the study throws light on the role of different drivers as “success factors” of BS and on how they interact with innovation efforts. The study also offers insights to business leaders who are evaluating the potential benefits on company profitability of a return to a high cost-environment and provides useful indications on the conditions under which BS pays off.
Understanding the interplay between immigrant nascent entrepreneurship and cross-cultural adaptation
Authors: Walsh Lucia , Cooney Thomas
Published: July 2022

Purpose

All entrepreneurs face challenges during their venture start-up process, but immigrant entrepreneurs face additional and distinctive challenges due to their contextual newness. This paper focuses on understanding the intertwined journeys of nascent entrepreneurship and cross-cultural adaptation of immigrants in a small Western European country where immigrant entrepreneurship is still a relatively new phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

The induction-driven, 18-month longitudinal empirical inquiry focused on six early-stage nascent entrepreneurs. Qualitative methods included participant observation during an enterprise program, qualitative interviews and ongoing informal communication.

Findings

The data uncovered the interplay between the nascent immigrant entrepreneurship and cross-cultural adaptation. This led to the development of a novel conceptual framework which highlights how the cross-cultural adaptation domain links with the process of recognition, evaluation and exploitation of entrepreneurial opportunities by immigrant entrepreneurs. While varying temporarily and contextually, cross-cultural adaptation was found to create both enabling and constraining tensions within the nascent entrepreneurial experiences of immigrants.

Research limitations/implications

It is recognized that undertaking just six cases may present a significant limitation of the research, but a close examination of even one individual's lived experience can yield valuable insights. It is hoped that future work will test the highlighted research propositions and other findings in different empirical contexts, and so add to the emerging conceptual framework on nascent immigrant entrepreneurship within the context of cross-cultural adaptation.

Originality/value

No previous qualitative studies have been undertaken seeking to understand how cross-cultural adaptation interacts with the early stages of nascent immigrant entrepreneurial activity. By integrating new venture creation and cross-cultural adaptation theories, this research contributes to the conceptualisation of early stages of nascent entrepreneurial activities of immigrants in a new host environment. The implications of the research are also relevant to enterprise support bodies, policymakers and practitioners who support immigrant entrepreneurship.
Cutaneous nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in Japan: Review of the Japanese literature
Authors: Fujishima Chieko , Tahara Jumpei , Munemoto Sawa , Hioki Chika , Sasaki Hiroka , Yoshida Haruka , Matsuo Hiroo , Miyamoto Yuji , Ishii Norihisa , Kudo Hitoshi
Published: July 2022

Nontuberculous mycobacteria cause a wide range of infections, including cutaneous infections, in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. Although pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infections have increased significantly in Japan in recent years, there is less evidence on clinical and microbiological characteristics of cutaneous nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in Japan. We reviewed 86 Japanese cases reported between July 2016 and November 2021 and analyzed them in conjunction with the eight patients from our institution who were diagnosed with cutaneous nontuberculous mycobacterial infections by culture between 2015 and 2021. In the aggregate series, the average patient age was 60 years, and the ratio of immunocompromised hosts was 53%, both of which were higher than those in previous reports from other countries. No female predominance was observed, unlike in pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacteria infections. Rapidly growing mycobacteria accounted for 58% of the cases (n = 54), whereas slowly growing mycobacteria for 43% (n = 40).Mycobacterium marinum(also known asMycobacteroides marinum) (n = 20, 21%) was the most common cause, followed byMycobacterium chelonae(n = 18, 19%),Mycobacterium abscessus(also known asMycobacteroides abscessus) (n = 15, 16%), andMycobacterium ulcerans(n = 11, 12%). While clinical appearance was variable,M ulceransinfections usually presented with ulcers, while nodules were common among infections caused byM chelonaeandM marinum. Disseminated infections involving multiple organs were observed in 23 patients (24%). Thirty‐two cases (30%) were preceded by exposure, including raising or handling fish, trauma, and invasive medical procedures. Most patients were treated with more than two antibiotics and responded to therapy.
Estimation of shear sonic logs in the heterogeneous and fractured Lower Cretaceous of the Danish North Sea using supervised learning
Authors: Lorentzen Mads , Bredesen Kenneth , Mosegaard Klaus , Nielsen Lars
Published: July 2022

Shear wave velocity information is valuable in many aspects of seismic exploration and characterization of reservoirs. However, shear wave logs are not always available in the interval of interest due to cost and time‐saving purposes. In this study, we present a tailored supervised learning approach to estimate shear wave velocity from well‐log measurements in the Lower Cretaceous succession of the Valdemar and Boje fields in the Danish North Sea. Our objective is to investigate the performance of four supervised learning regression models (linear, random forest, support vector and multi‐layer perceptron). A limited well‐log data set from six wells is used for training and testing the supervised learning models. A set of well data containing normalized gamma ray, compressional wave velocity, neutron porosity and medium resistivity logs gave reasonable shear wave velocity estimates in the test wells with root‐mean‐square error scores within the range of other published studies. Based on limited input data and complex geology, the multi‐layer perceptron was the most successful model in predicting the reservoir sections of the test wells. However, all models lacked stability in the overburden zones. Lastly, re‐training the multi‐layer perceptron on the six wells to predict missing shear wave velocity in a nearby well showed promising results for further reservoir characterization. The obtained results can yield useful input into, for example, seismic pre‐stack inversion, amplitude versus offset analysis and rock physics analysis.
Vocational guidance in general and vocational education schools in Germany: The relevance of informed choice for successful vocational education and the legacy of Aloys Fischer
Authors: Gericke Erika
Published: July 2022

This paper aims to reflect Fischer's ideas on vocational orientation and vocational choice as fundamental prerequisites for vocational education in the current German system of vocational guidance in general and vocational education schools. A special focus is placed on Fischer's view on the relevance of informed choice when choosing an occupation. In a first step, the reader will be introduced to the philosophical basis of German vocational guidance, namely, Beruf and self-knowledge, as it is the foundation for understanding Aloys Fischer's thinking on vocational guidance. In a second step, key points of Aloys Fischer's paper ‘Vocational Guidance and Vocational Counsellors’ (1920) that relate to the issue of informed choice will be presented. Finally, as Aloys Fischer's ideas are reflected in vocational guidance in general and vocational education schools in Germany, the paper provides a brief discussion of informed choice—Fischer's central topic—from the author's German and contemporary perspective.
Diagnostic accuracy of paranasal sinus measurements on multislice computed tomography for sex estimation: A systematic review, meta‐analysis, and meta‐regression
Authors: de Mendonça Diego S. , Ribeiro Esther C. , de Barros Silva Paulo G. , Rodrigues Arlan A. , Kurita Lúcio M. , de Aguiar Andréa S. W. , Tuji Fabrício M. , Neves Frederico S. , Carvalho Francisco S. R. , Costa Fábio W. G.
Published: July 2022

This systematic review aimed to answer the question, “Are paranasal measurements obtained with multislice computed tomography able to accurately estimate sex?” This PROSPERO‐registered systematic review included six databases and gray literature. Meta‐analysis of linear and volumetric data was performed using a random‐effects model, mean differences (MDs), and inverse variance. The QUADAS‐2 tool‐related risk of bias (RoB) and certainty evidence (GRADE approach) were assessed. A total of 1651 articles were initially selected from the main electronic databases for title and abstract screening. After removing duplicates and studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 18 studies were eligible for the meta‐analysis. The screened studies included 2507 computed tomography of non‐pathologic paranasal sinuses of adults aged between 18 and 40 years. Frontal sinus (FS) width (−4.89 mm; p < 0.00001) and maxillary sinus (MS) height (−3.73 mm; p < 0.00001) showed the greatest MD between females and males. Regarding volume, the MD was significant (p < 0.00001) in both paranasal sinuses (−3.01 and −1.04 cm3, respectively). The best sensitivity (ability to identify males) and specificity (ability to identify females) were found for the anteroposterior (72.3%) and intermaxillary (69%) MS distances, respectively. In general, all studies exhibited low RoB and applicability concerns. The certainty of the evidence was categorized as very low to moderate. Both paranasal sinuses were shown to be dimorphic structures, which could be valuable tools for forensic identification using the FS width and MS anteroposterior distance measurements. However, heterogeneity among studies must be considered.
Ten‐year incidence and treatment outcomes of closed degloving injuries (Morel‐Lavallee lesions) in a level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Moriarty Heather K , Ban Ee‐Jun , Schlegel Richard N , Goh Gerard S , Matthew Joseph K , Clements Warren
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Morel‐Lavallée lesions (MLL), also referred to as closed degloving injuries, result from traumatic shearing forces with separation of the subcutaneous fat from the underlying fascia. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and treatment of MLLs at a level 1 trauma centre.

Methods

Single‐centre retrospective cross‐sectional study of consecutive patients with an imaging diagnosis of a Morel‐Lavallee lesion from 1/1/2010–31/12/2019. Demographic data, mechanism of injury, volume of lesion, management and outcome data were collated.

Results

Sixty‐six MLLs were identified in 63 patients (64% Male) with a median age of 49.5 years (19–94 years). Mechanism of injury were road traffic accidents in the majority (66%). Median injury severity score (ISS) was 17 (range 1–33). Patients on oral anti‐coagulants had significantly larger lesions (181.9 cc v 445.5 cc, P = 0.044). The most common lesion location was the thigh (60.5%). Patients that underwent imaging within 72 h of injury had significantly larger lesions than those imaged more than 72 h after the inciting trauma (65 cc v 167 cc, P < 0.05). Management data were documented in 59% of lesions (39/66) in which 66.6% (n = 26) had invasive treatment. In the 31 patients where follow‐up was available, 64.5% (n = 20) were persistent but decreasing in size. There was no significant difference in follow‐up size for those who had invasive compared to conservative treatment (P = 0.3).

Conclusion

The diagnosis of MLL should be considered for soft‐tissue swelling in the context of shearing trauma. A variety of management options have been employed, with good overall outcomes.
Systemic lupus erythematosus increases risk of incident atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Yanlin , Fu Lu , Pu Sijia , Xue Yumei
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) might have increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) as a result of initiating chronic and systematic inflammation. However, the prevalence of AF in patients with SLE have not been well quantified. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to collect and identify available clinical data to explore this possible correlation.

Methods

Articles were searched based on electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Web of Science). Review Manager 5.4 was used to perform meta‐analysis of all selected studies and subgroup analyses (pooled separately by geographical distribution). Pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated by random‐effect model or fix‐effect model.

Results

Six cohort studies were involved in this meta‐analysis, including 311 844 participants, 78 134 cases of SLE and 347 883 non‐SLE controls. Pooled studies indicated increased risk of AF development in patients with SLE compared to participants without SLE (I2 = 96%, RR = 1.85; 95% CI: 1.23–2.79; P = .003). Four clinical trials including only European/ American populations were analyzed in subgroups. Heterogeneity analysis showed that I2 = 9% and there was an increase in the risk of AF development in European/ American patients with SLE (RR = 1.79; 95% CI: 1.61–1.98; P < .001), while in 2 Korean studies, the heterogeneity was 98% and there was no correlation between AF and SLE (RR = 1.81, 95% CI: 0.39–8.43). Five clinical studies were involved in subgroup analysis after excluding the Beak study, with I2 = 96% and they suggested that SLE increased the risk of AF development (RR = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.42–3.21, P = .002).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis suggested that SLE may be a risk factor for AF development and the results may vary with geographic distribution.
Small‐cell lung cancer from the peripheral lung is frequently accompanied by emphysema and interstitial lung disease in the background
Authors: Ikematsu Yuki , Izumi Miiru , Takayama Koichi , Kumazoe Hiroyuki , Wakamatsu Kentaro , Kawasaki Masayuki
Published: July 2022

Background

It has long been thought that small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a central type of tumor that is located in the proximal bronchi and the mediastinum. However, several studies reported that SCLC exhibited several types of spread pattern on computed tomography (CT). The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between CT images and clinical characteristics in patients with SCLC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the CT images of 92 SCLC patients and classified them into six types of spreading patterns: central, peripheral, lymphangitic spread (LYM), pleural dissemination (PLE), lobar replacement (LOB), and air‐space consolidation (AC). We also evaluated the correlation between primary tumor location and the clinical characteristics of patients.

Results

The most common type of imaging pattern was peripheral (n = 40, 44%), with the next most common type being central (n = 27, 29%). Atypical types of SCLC, such as LYM (n = 2, 2%), PLE (n = 4, 4%), LOB (n = 8, 9%), and AC (n = 11, 12%), were also recognized in our study. The prevalence of emphysema and interstitial lung disease (ILD) was significantly higher in the peripheral type than in the central type (p = 0.0056 and p = 0.0403, respectively). Meanwhile, no survival difference was seen between the central type and the peripheral type (median months 17.9 vs. 21.9, respectively, p = 0.720).

Conclusions

The peripheral type of tumor was correlated with higher prevalence of emphysema and ILD in SCLC. Our result suggests different mechanisms of development and tumor characteristics according to tumor location.
Evaluation of the “hemoptysis” item in clinical decision rules for the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism in the emergency department
Authors: Bannelier Héloïse , Gorlicki Judith , Penaloza Andrea , Douillet Delphine , Roy Pierre‐Marie , Freund Yonathan , Roussel Melanie
Published: July 2022

Background

Hemoptysis is not common in pulmonary embolism (PE) and lacks specificity for its diagnosis. However, this item is present in different validated scores that estimate the clinical probability of PE. The relevance of this item in clinical decision rules (CDRs) is not clearly established.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of removing the “hemoptysis” item from the PERC, YEARS, and PEGeD CDR in patients with low clinical probability of PE.

Design

This was a post hoc analysis of two European prospective cohorts, which included 2968 patients presenting to the ED with a low clinical probability of PE (PROPER and PERCEPIC) and a 3‐month follow‐up. The primary endpoint was the false‐negative rate of a CDR score without the hemoptysis item. Secondary endpoints included the potential reduction of chest imaging if the item hemoptysis was to be removed and risk stratification of the Geneva and Wells scores without the hemoptysis item.

Results

Of 2968 patients included (mean ± SD age 46 ± 18 years, 53% female), 87 patients (3%) had a PE diagnosed at 3 months. A total of 2908 were followed‐up at 3 months and analyzed. Using the PERC rule with and without the hemoptysis item, there were 13 and 14 missed cases of PE, respectively (failure rate 0.45% [95% CI 0.25%–0.78%] and 0.48% [95% CI 0.27%–0.82%]). Using the YEARS strategy, there were 11 missed PE cases with or without the hemoptysis item (false‐negative rate 0.57% [95% CI 0.30%–1.05%]). With the PERC and YEARS rule, removing the hemoptysis item would have led to a 1% reduction in chest imaging. The PEGeD strategy was not modified by the removal of the hemoptysis item.

Conclusions

The hemoptysis item could be safely removed from the PERC, YEARS, and PEGeD CDRs. However, there was no subsequent clinically relevant reduction of chest imaging.
The effects of non‐crop habitat on spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) abundance in fruit systems: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Buck Nicolas , Fountain Michelle T. , Potts Simon G. , Bishop Jacob , Garratt Michael P. D.
Published: July 2022

Drosophila suzukii (SWD) poses a threat to soft and stone fruit globally. SWD inhabits non‐crop areas adjacent to farms from where it moves into crops to cause damage. Effective IPM control strategies, considering both the crop and non‐crop area, are needed to control this economically important pest.

We conducted a meta‐analysis to quantify the impacts of different non‐crop habitats around fruit farms on SWD populations, comparing abundance of SWD trapped in crop and non‐crop habitats.

Overall, SWD abundance was greater in non‐crop habitats than in cropped areas and this difference was greatest in farms adjacent to woodland, or field margins containing known SWD host plants.

The difference in SWD abundance between crop and non‐crop habitats was not affected by crop type but was greatest in the winter months and in conventional compared to organic farms, indicating conventional approaches can reduce relative SWD abundance.

Drosophila suzukii overwinter in non‐crop habitats which provide refuge outside the cropping season. However, certain habitats support greater relative abundance of SWD than others and this is also affected by farm management. We discuss what these findings mean for effective control of SWD.
Investigating the white racial equilibrium and the power‐maintenance of whiteness
Authors: Drustrup David , Liu William Ming , Rigg Thomas , Davis Katelynn
Published: July 2022

The white racial equilibrium is a social, historical, and cultural location where whiteness is insulated from critique and the importance of race is largely ignored by white people. The expectation of the white racial equilibrium is one way white people define their whiteness, and this expectation protects white supremacist epistemologies and ideologies. We completed interviews with fourteen white undergraduate students to understand more about the processes employed by students when challenged by the white racial disequilibrium. Using consensual qualitative research (CQR), we coded their responses and found seven representative domains, with two categories endorsed by every participant: “assumption of valid knowledge” and “non‐racist beliefs.” While some respondents displayed thoughtfulness about race and whiteness, findings suggest that most participants attempted to restore the white racial equilibrium by centralizing the innocence and beneficence of whiteness and white people through various rhetorical maneuvers, including (1) invoking superficial and incomplete knowledge of complex racial topics, and (2) depersonalizing themselves from racist acts and ideas, among others. This study contributes to the whiteness literature by providing descriptions of how white students attempt to re‐establish the white racial equilibrium after facing disruptions to their expectations for conversations about race. Implications for anti‐racist psychologists are discussed.
“Ultimately, the choice is theirs”: Informed choice vaccine conversations and Canadian midwives
Authors: Pringle Wendy , Greyson Devon , Graham Janice E. , Berman Robyn , Dubé Ève , Bettinger Julie A.
Published: July 2022

Background

In Canada, vaccination that protects against pertussis and influenza is recommended in every pregnancy, but uptake remains low. Communicating the risks and benefits of vaccination is key to clinical conversations about vaccination, which may influence the uptake of pregnancy and subsequent infant vaccines. Canadian midwives use an informed choice model of care, which is distinct from informed consent and prioritizes client autonomy in decision‐making.

Methods

Using institutional ethnography, which treats lived experience as expertise, we aimed to understand how Canadian midwives, governed by intersecting professional standards and regulations, navigate vaccine discussions with their clients. We conducted interviews with individuals involved in midwifery training, regulation, and continuing education, as well as key public health professionals with expertise in immunization training. Following the phases of thematic analysis outlined by Braun and Clarke, data were analyzed holistically, emergent themes identified, and coding categories developed.

Results

Two types of confidence emerged as important to midwives' ability to conduct a thoroughly informed choice discussion about vaccines: confidence in vaccination itself (vaccine confidence), and confidence in vaccine knowledge and counseling skills (vaccine counseling confidence). A deferred or shortened vaccine discussion could be the result of either vaccine hesitancy or counseling hesitancy.

Discussion

Currently, available clinical communication tools and recommended techniques for addressing vaccine hesitancy do not always adapt well to the needs of midwives working to support clients' informed choice decisions. Our findings suggest that Canadian midwives require more and clearer resources on both the risks and benefits of vaccination in pregnancy.
Engagement with services in Black African and Caribbean people with psychosis: The role of social networks, illness perceptions, internalized stigma, and perceived discrimination
Authors: Degnan Amy , Berry Katherine , Vaughan Matthew , Crossley Nick , Edge Dawn
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Research and policies in the United Kingdom have repeatedly highlighted the need to reduce ethnic disparities and improve engagement with mental health services among Black African and Caribbean people with psychosis. The aim of this study was to examine the role of social network characteristics and psychological factors in engagement with services in Black people with psychosis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 51 Black African and Caribbean adults with non‐affective psychosis and currently receiving care from mental health services in England. Measures were completed to examine relationships between social networks, illness perceptions, perceived racial or ethnic discrimination in services, internalized stigma, and current engagement with services from service user and staff perspectives.

Results

Social network composition (ethnic homogeneity) moderately correlated with better service user and staff reported engagement. Greater perceived personal control over problems was associated with better staff reported engagement. Lower perceived ethnic or racial discrimination in services, and specific illness perceptions (higher perceived treatment control, greater self‐identification with psychosis symptoms, more concern and greater emotional response related to problems) were associated with better service user reported engagement. Internalized stigma was not associated with service engagement. Multivariate regression analyses suggested that a more ethnically homogenous social network was the strongest predictor of better service user and staff reported engagement.

Conclusions

Psychosocial interventions that target social networks, perceived ethnic and racial discrimination in services, and illness perceptions may facilitate better engagement and improve outcomes. Further longitudinal studies are required to examine causal mechanisms.
Validation of thrombotic risk factors in 1381 patients with essential thrombocythaemia: A multicentre retrospective real‐life study
Authors: Stuckey Ruth , Ianotto Jean‐Christophe , Santoro Marco , Czyż Anna , Perez Encinas Manuel M. , Gómez‐Casares María Teresa , Noya Pereira Maria Soledad , de Nałęcz Anna Kulikowska , Gołos Aleksandra , Lewandowski Krzysztof , Szukalski Łukasz , González‐Martín Jesús M. , Wróbel Tomasz , Sobas Marta Anna
Published: July 2022

Thrombosis and haemorrhage are frequent in patients with essential thrombocythaemia (ET). The 2016 revised International Prognostic Score for Thrombosis in Essential Thrombocythaemia‐thrombosis (r‐IPSET‐t) score stratifies patients into very‐low‐ (VLR), low‐ (LR), intermediate‐ (IR) and high‐risk (HR) groups. We validated the r‐IPSET‐t in the biggest population of patients with ET (n = 1381) to date and found it to be a better fit than the earlier IPSET‐t score. With an average follow‐up of 87.7 months, there were 0.578 thrombotic events/person‐year and 0.286 bleeding events/person‐year after diagnosis. The 10‐year thrombosis‐free survival was 88% and 99% for the r‐IPSET‐t LR and VLR groups (p < 0.001). Cytoreduction was a thrombotic risk factor in younger patients (aged <60 years, hazard ratio 9.49, p = 0.026; aged ≥60 years, hazard ratio 1.04, p = 0.93). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, anti‐aggregation after diagnosis was protective for thrombosis (hazard ratio 0.31, p = 0.005) but a risk factor for major bleeding (hazard ratio 10.56, p = 0.021). Of the IPSET‐t HR and LR groups, 132/780 and 249/301 were re‐classified as LR and VLR respectively (p < 0.001). The European LeukemiaNET (ELN) does not recommend aspirin for VLR patients but in this real‐life analysis 83.1% of VLR patients received it. Our results validate the r‐IPSET‐t score as more predictive for thrombosis than the ELN‐recommended IPSET‐t and raise concerns about unnecessary cytoreductive and anti‐aggregative therapy.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of cannabidiol against lipopolysaccharides in cardiac sodium channels
Authors: Fouda Mohamed A. , Fathy Mohamed Yasmine , Fernandez Rachel , Ruben Peter C.
Published: July 2022

Background

Sepsis, caused by a dysregulated response to infections, can lead to cardiac arrhythmias. However, the mechanisms underlying sepsis‐induced inflammation, and how inflammation provokes cardiac arrhythmias, are not well understood. We hypothesized that cannabidiol (CBD) may ameliorate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced cardiotoxicity, via Toll‐like receptors (TLR4) and cardiac sodium channels (NaV1.5).

Methods and results

We incubated human immune cells (THP‐1 macrophages) with LPS for 24 h, then extracted the THP‐1 incubation media. ELISA assays showed that LPS (1 or 5 μg·ml−1), in a concentration‐dependent manner, or MPLA (TLR4 agonist, 5 μg·ml−1) stimulated the THP‐1 cells to release inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐6). Prior incubation (4 h) with CBD (5 μM) or C34 (TLR4 antagonist: 5 μg·ml−1) inhibited LPS and MPLA‐induced release of both IL‐6 and TNF‐α. Human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CM) were subsequently incubated for 24 h in the media extracted from THP‐1 cells incubated with LPS, MPLA alone, or in combination with CBD or C34. Voltage‐clamp experiments showed a right shift in the voltage dependence of NaV1.5 activation, steady state fast inactivation (SSFI), increased persistent current and prolonged in silico action potential duration in hiSPC‐CMs incubated in the LPS or MPLA‐THP‐1 media. Co‐incubation with CBD or C34 rescued the biophysical dysfunction caused by LPS and MPLA.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that CBD may protect against sepsis‐induced inflammation and subsequent arrhythmias through (i) inhibition of the release of inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant and anti‐apoptotic effects and/or (ii) a direct effect on NaV1.5.
Apelin‐mediated deamidation of HMGA1 promotes tumorigenesis by enhancing SREBP1 activity and lipid synthesis
Authors: Zhu Yihan , Yang Ying , Bu Hong , Huang Hong , Chen Hongyu , Ran Jingjing , Qin Liwen , Ni Yinyun , Yao Menglin , Song Tingting , Li Mufeng , Yang Yongfeng , Guo Tingting , Chao Ningning , Liu Zhiqing , Li Weimin , Zhang Li
Published: July 2022

Enhanced fatty acid synthesis provides proliferation and survival advantages for tumor cells. Apelin is an adipokine, which serves as a ligand of G protein–coupled receptors that promote tumor growth in malignant cancers. Here, we confirmed that apelin increased sterol regulatory element–binding protein 1 (SREBP1) activity and induced the expression of glutamine amidotransferase for deamidating high‐mobility group A 1 (HMGA1) to promote fatty acid synthesis and proliferation of lung cancer cells. This post‐translational modification stabilized the HMGA1 expression and enhanced the formation of the apelin‐HMGA1‐SREBP1 complex to facilitate SREBP1 activity for lipid metabolism and lung cancer cell growth. We uncovered the pivotal role of apelin‐mediated deamidation of HMGA1 in lipid metabolism and tumorigenesis of lung cancer cells.
Absolute decrease in regulatory T cells and low-dose interleukin-2 therapy: restoring and expanding regulatory T cells to treat systemic sclerosis: a 24-week study
Authors: Yu Zhen , Cheng Hao , Ding Tingting , Liang Yuying , Yan Chenglan , Gao Chong , Wen Hongyan
Published: July 2022

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vascular lesions, immunological alterations and tissue fibrosis. There is some evidence of an imbalance between T-cell subsets in this disease. Interleukin (IL)-2 is a cytokine that can regulate the activity of immune cells and there is evidence that low-dose IL-2 therapy can be used to treat immune diseases.

Aim

To investigate the changes of peripheral lymphocyte subsets, especially T helper (Th)17 and regulatory T (Treg) cells and the effects of low-dose IL-2 therapy in patients with SSc.

Methods

In total, 66 patients with SSc and 49 sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HCs), were enrolled. The absolute numbers of peripheral lymphocyte subsets in these individuals were determined by flow cytometry. The 66 patients, were divided into 2 groups: 23 (the IL-2 group) were treated with low-dose (5.0 × 105 IU) IL-2 by subcutaneous injection daily for 5 days combined with conventional therapy, while the remaining 23 patients received conventional therapy only.

Results

Compared with HCs, the absolute numbers of peripheral T, CD4+ T, CD8+ T, natural killer and Treg cells were significantly lower in patients with SSc, with the most dramatic difference seen in both the absolute number and percentage of Treg cells in these patients, including new (previously untreated) cases, resulting in an imbalance (elevated ratio) between Th17 and Treg cells. At Week 24 after commencement of IL-2 treatment, Treg cells were markedly increased and tended to restore the balance of Th17 to Treg cells compared with baseline. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, modified Rodnan Skin Score and visual analogue scale score were significantly decreased in both the IL-2 and non-IL-2 groups, indicating disease improvement. Notably, compared with those in the non-IL-2 group, patients treated with IL-2 had greater improvement.

Conclusion

Our study showed that the absolute numbers of peripheral Treg cells together with total T, CD4+ T, CD8+ T and NK is significantly decreased, leading to an imbalance of Th17 to Treg cells in patients with SSc, and that low-dose IL-2 treatment could restore the balance of the two immune cells and reduce disease activity without obvious adverse effects.