bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of thiamphenicol in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) after single intravenous and oral administrations
Authors: Aboubakr Mohamed , Soliman Ahmed
Published: August 2020

Thiamphenicol (TP) pharmacokinetics were studied in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) following a single intravenous (IV) and oral (PO) administration at 30 mg/kg BW. Concentrations of TP were determined with HPLC and were analyzed by a noncompartmental method. After IV injection, elimination half‐life (t1/2λz), total body clearance (Cltot) volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss), and mean residence time (MRT) of TP were 3.83 hr, 0.19 L/hr/kg, 0.84 L/kg, and 4.37 hr, respectively. After oral administration of TP, the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) was 19.81 μg/ml and was obtained at 2.00 hr (tmax) postadministration. Elimination half‐life (t1/2λz) and mean absorption time (MAT) were 4.01 hr and 1.56 hr, respectively. The systemic bioavailability following oral administration of TP was 78.10%. TP therapy with an oral dosage of 30 mg/kg BW is suggested for a beneficial clinical effect in quails.
How emotions affect judgement and decision making in an interrogation scenario
Authors: Sambrano Deshawn , Masip Jaume , Blandón‐Gitlin Iris
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Little research exists on the influence of emotion in forensic settings. To start filling this gap, we used a hypothetical interrogation scenario to examine the effects of emotional state on judgement, decision making, and information‐processing style across two separate experiments.

Methods

The participants were induced a specific emotion. Then, they read a scenario where a suspect was arrested and rated (1) the suspect's guilt, and (2) the extent to which they would use a number of tactics to interview the suspect. Based on the feelings‐as‐information theory and cognitive‐appraisal theories of emotion, we predicted that relative to angry or happy participants, sad participants would be less inclined to judge the suspect as guilty (judgement), would show a stronger tendency to select benevolent interrogation tactics and a weaker tendency to select hostile interrogation tactics (decision making), and would be more likely to use an analytic (rather than a heuristic) processing style.

Results

In Experiment 1 (conducted with college students), the judgement hypothesis was supported. In Experiment 2 (with mTurkers), the decision‐making hypothesis was supported. A meta‐analysis of the two experiments revealed that participants were more willing to select benevolent than hostile interrogation tactics and that, as predicted, sad participants were more willing than angry or happy participants to select benevolent tactics. However, emotion did not affect the participants’ tendency to select hostile tactics.

Conclusion

We tested emotion theories in an interrogation scenario. The significant results were consistent with the feelings‐as‐information and cognitive‐appraisal theories of emotion and have practical relevance.
The Vascularity of Ayurvedic Leech Therapy: Sensory Translations and Emergent Agencies in Interspecies Medicine
Authors: Brooks Lisa Allette
Published: August 2020

This article offers vascularity as a multi‐dimensional imaginary for the interspecies entanglements constituting Ayurvedic leech therapy. Whether, when, where, and how a leech decides to bite, suck, and release comprise pivotal junctures in leech therapy as practiced in southern Kerala, India. In the course of leech–human intra‐actions, leeches translate matter, providing sensory mediation, relief, and amusement. Enmeshed in social and ecological relations inflected by gender, religion, class, and caste, this analysis of Ayurvedic leech therapy reframes questions of agencies starting with and from the viewpoint of the vascular capacities of leeches in their interactions with humans. This image of vascularity provides an analytic for the emergent agencies of humans and leeches constituted by sensory intra‐actions at branching points in this multispecies clinical practice.
Biases in bulk: DNA metabarcoding of marine communities and the methodology involved
Authors: van der Loos Luna M. , Nijland Reindert
Published: August 2020

With the growing anthropogenic pressure on marine ecosystems, the need for efficient monitoring of biodiversity grows stronger. DNA metabarcoding of bulk samples is increasingly being implemented in ecosystem assessments and is more cost‐efficient and less time‐consuming than monitoring based on morphology. However, before raw sequences are obtained from bulk samples, a profound number of methodological choices must be made. Here, we critically review the recent methods used for metabarcoding of marine bulk samples (including benthic, plankton and diet samples) and indicate how potential biases can be introduced throughout sampling, preprocessing, DNA extraction, marker and primer selection, PCR amplification and sequencing. From a total of 64 studies evaluated, our recommendations for best practices include to (a) consider DESS as a fixative instead of ethanol, (b) use the DNeasy PowerSoil kit for any samples containing traces of sediment, (c) not limit the marker selection to COI only, but preferably include multiple markers for higher taxonomic resolution, (d) avoid touchdown PCR profiles, (e) use a fixed annealing temperature for each primer pair when comparing across studies or institutes, (f) use a minimum of three PCR replicates, and (g) include both negative and positive controls. Although the implementation of DNA metabarcoding still faces several technical complexities, we foresee wide‐ranging advances in the near future, including improved bioinformatics for taxonomic assignment, sequencing of longer fragments and the use of whole‐genome information. Despite the bulk of biases involved in metabarcoding of bulk samples, if appropriate controls are included along the data generation process, it is clear that DNA metabarcoding provides a valuable tool in ecosystem assessments.
Plasma endocannabinoids and cannabimimetic fatty acid derivatives are altered in gastroparesis: A sex‐ and subtype‐dependent observation
Authors: Bashashati Mohammad , Leishman Emma , Bradshaw Heather , Sigaroodi Solmaz , Tatro Eric , Bright Tamis , McCallum Richard , Sarosiek Irene
Published: August 2020

Background

Gastroparesis (GP) is a motility disorder of the stomach presenting with upper gastrointestinal symptoms in the setting of delayed gastric emptying. Endocannabinoids are involved in the regulation of GI function including motility. However, their role in the pathophysiology of GP has not been sufficiently investigated. Our goal was to compare the circulating levels of endocannabinoids and cannabimimetic fatty acid derivatives in GP versus control subjects.

Methods

The study compared plasma concentrations of endocannabinoids and their lipoamine and 2‐acyl glycerol congeners, measured by high‐pressure liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS‐MS), in adult patients with diabetic gastroparesis (DM‐GP; n = 24; n = 16 female), idiopathic gastroparesis (ID‐GP; n = 19; n = 11 female), diabetic patients without GP (DM; n = 19; n = 10 female), and healthy controls (HC; n = 18; n = 10 female). Data, presented as mean ± SEM, were analyzed with ANOVA (Sidak post hoc).

Key Results

Endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA: 0.5 ± 0.1 nMol/L) and 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol (2‐AG: 2.6 ± 0.7 nMol/L) were significantly lower in female DM‐GP patients vs. DM females (AEA: 2.5 ± 0.7 nMol/L and 2‐AG: 9.4 ± 3.3 nMol/L). Other monoacylglycerols including 2‐palmitoyl glycerol and 2‐oleoyl glycerol were also lower in female DM‐GP patients compared to DM females. No changes were observed in men.

Conclusions & Inferences

Endocannabinoids and other fatty acid derivatives with cannabimimetic properties are reduced in female DM‐GP patients. Since GP, particularly with diabetic etiology, is more prevalent among women and since cannabinoids are antiemetic, this decrease in levels may contribute to symptom development in these subjects. Targeting the endocannabinoid system may be a future therapeutic option in DM‐GP patients.
Obesity, the new childhood disability? An umbrella review on the association between adiposity and physical function
Authors: Tsiros Margarita D. , Tian Esther J. , Shultz Sarah P. , Olds Timothy , Hills Andrew P. , Duff Jed , Kumar Saravana
Published: August 2020

The adverse physical impacts of childhood obesity are increasingly being recognized. The objective of this study is to examine relationships between physical function and adiposity in youth. An umbrella review searched seven databases from inception to May 2019 for systematic reviews examining associations between adiposity and physical function in 0–20‐year‐olds. Findings were synthesized using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework and NHMRC FORM. Seventeen of 21 systematic reviews reported impairments to body function, including cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), muscle function, balance/coordination, gait biomechanics, pain and injury. Six reviews reported activity restrictions in motor skills, running speed/agility and functional mobility, and two found inverse associations between adiposity and physical health‐related quality of life (p‐HRQOL). Some causal relationships indicated that adiposity inversely predicted p‐HRQOL/CRF and CRF/muscle function inversely predicted adiposity. Assessments of physical function were heterogeneous and impacts on participation in life situations meaningful to the individual were largely unknown. Substantial evidence associates childhood overweight/obesity with reduced physical function. Associations were mainly cross‐sectional, with causative evidence for some outcomes. Comprehensive physical function assessments by qualified health professionals are needed, along with targeted interventions to address deficits. Research should further examine causality of relationships, underlying mechanisms and participation challenges in real‐life contexts.
Long‐term performance of left ventricular leads in cardiac resynchronisation therapy
Authors: Patel Peysh A. , Nadarajah Ramesh , Ali Noman , Tan Felicia , Hammond Charlotte , Burnet Naomi , Cole Charlotte A. , Paton Maria F. , Cubbon Richard M. , Kearney Mark T. , Gierula John , Witte Klaus K.
Published: August 2020

Background

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) confers symptomatic and survival benefits in chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). There remains a paucity of data on long‐term performance of left ventricular (LV) leads, particularly with newer quadripolar lead designs.

Methods

This single‐centre study utilised an electronic, outpatient HFrEF database to identify CRT recipients (2008‐2014). The primary endpoint was temporal trend in LV pacing thresholds during follow‐up. Secondary outcomes were complications relating to acute or chronic lead failure and device‐related infections.

Results

Two hundred eighty patients were included, with mean (±SD) age of 74.2 years (±9.0) and median follow‐up of 7.6 years (interquartile range 4‐9). Mean LV threshold was 1.37 V (±0.73) at implant and remained stable over the study period. No differences were observed based upon lead manufacturer. Compared to non‐quadripolar leads (n = 216), those of quadripolar designs (n = 64) had a lower threshold at 6 months (1.20 vs 1.37 V; P = .04) and at the end of the study period (1.32 vs 1.46 V; P = .04). Patients with HFrEF of ischaemic aetiology had higher thresholds at implant (1.46 vs 1.34 V; P = .05), and this persisted until the end of follow‐up (1.49 vs 1.34 V; P = .03). There was low incidence of acute (0.71%; 2/280) and chronic lead failure (1.79%; 5/280), with four cases (1.43%) of device infection.

Conclusions

LV leads in the context of CRT have excellent chronic stability and low rates of adverse events. Those with newer quadripolar lead designs have lower thresholds at initial follow‐up and in the longer term.
The impact of cardiac pacemaker implantation on male sexual function
Authors: Mlynarski Rafal , Mlynarska Agnieszka , Golba Krzysztof S.
Published: August 2020

Background

The possibility of sexual functioning is an important aspect of human life, and sexual disorders have a negative impact on the quality of life and well‐being. The aim of the study was to assess the sexuality and occurrence of sexual dysfunction within 6 months after pacemaker implantation.

Methods and Results

The study sample was a group of 80 patients with heart rhythm disorders who had been qualified for cardiac pacemaker implantation. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)‐15 was completed by all the patients at least 1 day before and 6 months after cardiac pacemaker implantation. The average results of the IIEF for all those who were included before implantation were 41.87 ± 7.57 and were statistically the worst after pacemaker implantation 46.76 ± 6.64; P < .0001. After the implantation of a pacemaker, there was an improvement in all of the subcategories of sexual life for all the men: erectile function P < .0001, orgasmic function P < .0001, sexual desire P < .0001, intercourse satisfaction P < .0001, and overall satisfaction P < .0001.

Conclusions

Pacemaker implantation had a positive effect on sexual functioning for all the patients. Pacemaker implantation did not affect sexual desire in the patients who were observed. Erectile dysfunction occurred in most of patients both before and after pacemaker implantation.
Facing Rose rosette virus: A risk to European rose cultivation
Authors: Vazquez‐Iglesias Ines , Ochoa‐Corona Francisco M. , Tang Joe , Robinson Rebekah , Clover Gerard R. G. , Fox Adrian , Boonham Neil
Published: August 2020

Roses (Rosa) are one of the most valuable ornamental flowering shrubs around the globe. They are susceptible to numerous pathogens that require management, increasing the cost of cultivation. Rose rosette virus (RRV; genus Emaravirus) is a devastating virus that has been spreading since the 1940s in the United States and Canada. It is an emerging risk to European and worldwide rose cultivation, causing symptoms such as witches' broom, malformations, excessive thorn production, and eventually plant death. RRV is transmitted by the eriophyid mite Phyllocoptes fructiphilus and by grafting. Research is being undertaken to understand RRV and to find control measures and resistant cultivars, as they are not currently available. Early detection of the disease is the key to prevent the establishment and spread of RRV and its vector. Different molecular and serological diagnostic methods have been designed and implemented, including ELISA, RT‐PCR, RT‐qPCR, LAMP, and high‐throughput sequencing. RRV infected plants can remain symptomless for long periods, so these diagnostic assays are necessary in conjunction with visual assessment to facilitate early detection. Significant social, economic, and environmental impacts are expected if RRV and its vector establish and spread in Europe. Rose trade between countries is the most likely pathway of introduction of RRV into Europe. In this review we describe current knowledge about RRV, the molecular and serological methods available for the detection of this virus, pathways to entry, and the possible impact if it establishes and spreads in Europe.
Social competence group intervention (SOCO) for children with autism spectrum disorder: A pilot study
Authors: Kylliäinen Anneli , Häkkinen Satu , Eränen Sanelma , Rantanen Kati , Ebeling Hanna , Bölte Sven , Helminen Terhi M.
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to describe concept of social competence as a theoretical background for social skills group intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A model of social competence comprised of three components: social skills, social performance, and social adjustment. We also examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the manualized Social Competence group intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (SOCO) using a variety of outcome measures. The nine‐month intervention included children groups, parental support groups and co‐operation with teachers. A pilot study involved 23 children aged 7 to 12 years (n = 16 intervention, n = 7 control) and intervention outcomes were measured with questionnaires for parents and teachers, neuropsychological tests, and observations. The parents of the intervention group reported improvements in social skills and social adjustment, whereas the teachers reported increases in social performance. Findings also indicated that affect recognition skills, social overtures, and reactions to peers were improved in the intervention group. Although the evidence of the pilot study should be considered as preliminary, it gives some indication of the feasibility of the SOCO group intervention and supports the usability of the theoretical background and approach for multiple outcome measures.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*07:355 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Genebrier Steve , Elsermans Vincent , Nivet Carl , Chérel Mathilde , Renac Virginie
Published: August 2020

HLA‐B*07:355 differs from B*07:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 916 in exon 5.
Detection of the HLA‐A*02:935 allele in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Li Chi‐Cheng , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: August 2020

Nucleotide substitution in codon 304 of HLA‐A*02:07:01:01 or HLA‐A*02:07:01:02 results in a novel allele, HLA‐A*02:935.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐A*32:134 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Genebrier Steve , Elsermans Vincent , Texeraud Emeric , Bertrand Gerald , Renac Virginie
Published: August 2020

A*32:134 differs from A*32:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 925 in exon 5.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DQB1*06:352 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Genebrier Steve , Elsermans Vincent , Texeraud Emeric , Bertrand Gerald , Renac Virginie
Published: August 2020

DQB1*06:352 differs from DQB1*06:03:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 668 in exon 4.
HLA‐DQB1*05:02:12, an HLA‐DQB1*05:02:01:01 variant, identified in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Lin Chun Ying , Chang Chia Ling
Published: August 2020

HLA‐DQB1*05:02:12 differs from HLA‐DQB1*05:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 351 (G>A) in exon 2.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐C*07:841 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Genebrier Steve , Elsermans Vincent , Nivet Carl , Chérel Mathilde , Renac Virginie
Published: August 2020

C*07:841 differs from C*07:06:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 845 in exon 4.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Peak Vertical Accelerations and Aerobic Exercise Intensity During Graded Walking and Running in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Gil-Rey Erreka , Deere Kevin C. , Maldonado-Martín Sara , Palacios-Samper Natalia , Azpeitia Agueda , Gorostiaga Esteban M. , Tobias Jon H.
Published: August 2020

How exercise intensity targets, calibrated according to oxygen consumption, relate to vertical impacts during weight-bearing exercise is currently unknown. The authors investigated the relationship between vertical peaks (VPs) and metabolic equivalents (METs) of oxygen consumption in 82 women during walking and running. The magnitude of VPs, measured using a hip-worn triaxial accelerometer, was derived from recommended aerobic exercise intensity targets. VPs were 0.63 ± 0.18g at the lower recommended absolute exercise intensity target (3 METs) but >1.5g at the upper end of moderate-intensity activities (1.90 ± 1.13g at 6 METs). Multilevel linear regression analyses identified speed and type of locomotion as the strongest independent predictors of VPs, explaining 54% and 11% of variance, respectively. The authors conclude that, in contrast to lower intensities, exercising close to or above the 6-MET threshold generates VPs of osteogenic potential, suggesting this could provide simultaneous benefits to decrease all-cause mortality and osteoporosis risk.
Bacterial invaders drive CRC progression
Authors: Meyerson Matthew
Published: August 2020

Gut-resident fusobacteria induce tumor-intrinsic chemotaxis in colon cancer (Casasanta
et al
., in 21 July 2020 issue).
Convalescent Plasma Therapy for COVID-19: State of the Art
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Anderson Arthur O. , Tang Julian W. , Tuccori Marco
Published: August 2020

Convalescent plasma (CP) therapy has been used since the early 1900s to treat emerging infectious diseases; its efficacy was later associated with the evidence that polyclonal neutralizing antibodies can reduce the duration of viremia. Recent large outbreaks of viral diseases for which effective antivirals or vaccines are still lacking has renewed the interest in CP as a life-saving treatment. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to the scaling up of CP therapy to unprecedented levels. Compared with historical usage, pathogen reduction technologies have now added an extra layer of safety to the use of CP, and new manufacturing approaches are being explored.
Staphylococcal Biofilm Development: Structure, Regulation, and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Schilcher Katrin , Horswill Alexander R.
Published: August 2020

In many natural and clinical settings, bacteria are associated with some type of biotic or abiotic surface that enables them to form biofilms, a multicellular lifestyle with bacteria embedded in an extracellular matrix.
Staphylococcus aureus
and
Staphylococcus epidermidis
, the most frequent causes of biofilm-associated infections on indwelling medical devices, can switch between an existence as single free-floating cells and multicellular biofilms. During biofilm formation, cells first attach to a surface and then multiply to form microcolonies.
Serologic Evidence for the Exposure of Eastern Coyotes (
Canis latrans
) in Pennsylvania to the Tick-Borne Pathogens Borreliella burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum
Authors: Izac Jerilyn R. , Camire Andrew C. , Schuler Edward J. A. , Hatke Amanda L. , O’Bier Nathaniel S. , Oliver Lee D. , Corondi Avery , Plocinski Olivia C. , Desmond Russell P. , Naimi Waheeda A. , Carlyon Jason A. , Van Why Kyle R. , Shelly Jennifer , Marconi Richard T.
Published: August 2020

The incidence of Lyme disease (
Borreliella burgdorferi
) and anaplasmosis (
Anaplasma phagocytophilum
) are increasing in North America and Europe. The causative agents of these debilitating tick-transmitted infections are maintained in nature in an enzootic cycle involving
Ixodes
ticks and diverse mammals and birds. It has been postulated that predators directly or indirectly influence the dynamics of the enzootic cycle and disease incidence. Here, we demonstrate high seropositivity of eastern coyotes for
B. burgdorferi
and
A. phagocytophilum
. As coyotes become established in urban and suburban environments, interactions with humans, companion animals, and urban/suburban wildlife will increase. Knowledge of the pathogens that these highly adaptable predators are exposed to or carry, and their potential to influence or participate in enzootic cycles, is central to efforts to reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases in humans and companion animals.
Comparative Genomic Study of Lactobacillus jensenii and the Newly Defined Lactobacillus mulieris Species Identifies Species-Specific Functionality
Authors: Putonti Catherine , Shapiro Jason W. , Ene Adriana , Tsibere Oleksandra , Wolfe Alan J.
Published: August 2020

Lactobacillus
species play a key role in the health of the urinary tract. For instance,
Lactobacillus crispatus
and
L. jensenii
have been found to inhibit uropathogenic
Escherichia coli
growth. While
L. crispatus
is typically found only within the microbiota of women without lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS),
L. jensenii
has been found in the microbiota of women both with and without LUTS. With the recent introduction of the new species
Lactobacillus mulieris
, several strains of
L. jensenii
were reclassified as
L. mulieris
based upon gene marker and average nucleotide identity. We took a phylogenomic and comparative genomic approach to ascertain the genetic determinants of these two species. Looking at a larger data set, we identified additional
L. mulieris
strains, including one distinct from other members of the species—
L. mulieris
UMB7784. Furthermore, we identified unique loci in each species that may have clinical implications.
The remarkable volcanism of Shastina, a stratocone segment of Mount Shasta, California
Authors: Christiansen Robert L. , Calvert Andrew T. , Champion Duane E. , Gardner Cynthia A. , Fierstein Judith E. , Vazquez Jorge A.
Published: August 2020

Mount Shasta, a 400 km3 volcano in northern California (United States), is the most voluminous stratocone of the Cascade arc. Most Mount Shasta lavas vented at or near the present summit; relatively smaller volumes erupted from scattered vents on the volcano’s flanks. An apron of pyroclastic and debris flows surrounds it.

Shastina, a large and distinct cone on the west side of Mount Shasta, represents a brief but exceptionally vigorous period of eruptive activity. Its volume of ∼13.5 km3 would make Shastina itself one of the larger Holocene Cascade stratovolcanoes. Its andesite-dacite lavas average 63 wt% SiO2 and have little compositional or petrographic variation; they erupted almost entirely from one central vent, although a single vent below Shastina’s north side erupted a flow of the same composition. Eruptions ended with explosive enlargement and breaching of the central crater and successive emplacement of four, more-silicic dacite domes within the crater and pyroclastic flows down its flank. Black Butte, a large volcanic dome and pyroclastic complex below the west flank of Shastina, is petrographically and chemically distinct but only slightly younger than Shastina itself, part of a nearly continuous Shastina–Black Butte eruptive episode.

Shastina overlies the widespread pumice of Red Banks, erupted from the Mount Shasta summit area and 14C dated at ca. 10,900 yr B.P. (calibrated). Shastina and Black Butte pyroclastic deposits have calibrated 14C ages indistinguishable from one another at ca. 10,700 cal. yr B.P. A cognate granitic-textured inclusion in a late Shastina lava flow yields a 238U-230Th date on zircons within error of those ages. Our conclusion that the entire, voluminous Shastina–Black Butte episode lasted no more than a few hundred years is confirmed by almost identical remanent magnetic directions of all of the lavas and pyroclastic deposits. Although extremely similar, the remanent magnetic directions do reveal a short path of secular variation through the eruptive sequence. We conclude that the entire Shastina–Black Butte eruptive episode lasted no more than ∼200 yr.

The magmas that produced the Shastina and Black Butte eruptions were separate individual bodies at different crustal levels. Each of these eruptive sequences probably represents magma approximating a liquid composition that experienced only minimal differentiation or crustal contamination and remained separated from the main central conduit for most eruptions of Mount Shasta. The probability of another rapidly developing, brief but voluminous eruptive episode at Mount Shasta is low but should not be ignored in evaluating future possible eruptive hazards.
COVID-19-associated brief psychotic disorder
Authors: Smith Colin M , Komisar Jonathan R , Mourad Ahmad , Kincaid Brian R
Published: August 2020

A 36-year-old previously healthy woman with no personal or family history of mental illness presented with new-onset psychosis after a diagnosis of symptomatic COVID-19. Her psychotic symptoms initially improved with antipsychotics and benzodiazepines and further improved with resolution of COVID-19 symptoms. This is the first case of COVID-19-associated psychosis in a patient with no personal or family history of a severe mood or psychotic disorder presenting with symptomatic COVID-19, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring of neuropsychiatric symptoms in these individuals.
Spontaneous tension pneumothorax and acute pulmonary emboli in a patient with COVID-19 infection
Authors: Khurram Ruhaid , Johnson Franklin T F , Naran Revati , Hare Samanjit
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the structure and operation of healthcare services worldwide. We highlight a case of a 64-year-old man who presented to the emergency department with acute dyspnoea on a background of a 2-week history of fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. On initial assessment the patient was hypoxic (arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) of 86% on room air), requiring 10 L/min of oxygen to maintain 98% SaO2. Examination demonstrated left-sided tracheal deviation and absent breath sounds in the right lung field on auscultation. A chest radiograph revealed a large right-sided tension pneumothorax which was treated with needle thoracocentesis and a definitive chest drain. A CT pulmonary angiogram demonstrated segmental left lower lobe acute pulmonary emboli, significant generalised COVID-19 parenchymal features, surgical emphysema and an iatrogenic pneumatocoele. This case emphasises the importance of considering coexisting alternative diagnoses in patients who present with suspected COVID-19.
Severe pre-eclampsia complicated by acute fatty liver disease of pregnancy, HELLP syndrome and acute kidney injury following SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Ahmed Irshad , Eltaweel Nashwa , Antoun Lina , Rehal Anoop
Published: August 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has presented many diagnostic challenges and uncertainties. Little is known about common pathologies complicating pregnancy and how their behaviour is modified by the presence of SARS-CoV-2. Pregnancy itself can alter the body’s response to viral infection, which can cause more severe symptoms. We report the first case of a patient affected with sudden-onset severe pre-eclampsia complicated by acute fatty liver disease of pregnancy, HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet) syndrome and acute kidney injury following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although an initial diagnostic dilemma, a multidisciplinary team approach was required to ensure a favourable outcome for both the mother and the baby. Our case report highlights the need for health professionals caring for pregnant women to be aware of the complex interplay between SARS-CoV-2 infection and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Broadening the differential: pneumomediastinum and COVID-19 infection
Authors: Pooni Rajan , Pandey Gargi , Akbar Saniath
Published: August 2020

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has emerged as a new pathogen responsible for an atypical viral pneumonia, with severe cases progressing to an acute respiratory distress syndrome. In our practice, we have observed patients admitted with COVID-19 pneumonia developing worsening hypoxaemic respiratory failure prompting the need for urgent endotracheal intubation. Here, we present a case of a patient admitted with severe COVID-19 pneumonia who required continuous positive airway pressure support following acute deterioration. However, with the patient requiring an increasing fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), a prompt CT pulmonary angiogram scan was performed to exclude an acute pulmonary embolism. Surprisingly, this revealed a pneumomediastinum. Following a brief admission to the intensive care unit, the patient made a full recovery and was discharged 18 days post admission.
Factors promoting physical activity in women with fibromyalgia: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Larsson Anette , Feldthusen Caroline , Mannerkorpi Kaisa
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To gain deeper knowledge of factors promoting physical activity in women with fibromyalgia.

Design

A qualitative study based on semistructured in-depth individual interviews. Analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Participants

Fourteen women with fibromyalgia, age 38–65, recruited from a previous randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of person-centred progressive resistance exercise compared with relaxation therapy.

Setting

Interviews were conducted in a hospital setting.

Results

The analysis resulted in four categories:a desire to be physically active, finding the proper level and creating proper conditions, managing painandgetting it done.

Conclusion

This study reveals several factors both personal and environmental, which promote the ability to be physically active when living with pain and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. The participants expressed that, although they had a desire to be physically active, they needed support and guidance from a professional with adequate knowledge to help them find the proper level of exercise. They also expressed a need for the professional to understand their preferences, and to use these preferences as a basis for creating the proper conditions, helping them learn to manage pain and supporting them in getting the exercise done.
Long-term economic outcomes for interventions in early childhood: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Geelhoed Elizabeth , Mandzufas Joelie , George Phoebe , Strahan Ken , Duffield Alison , Li Ian , Cross Donna
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Investment in early childhood produces positive returns: for the child, the family and the community. Benefits have been shown to be significant within certain parameters, but a systematic review of the economic evidence across multiple sectors including health, education and social welfare will have the capacity to inform policy relative to the full range of social determinants. This review will take a broad approach, encompassing a range of costs and benefits to enable the identification of the most beneficial investments in early childhood and to highlight gaps in current research.

Methods and analysis

Economic evaluations incorporating both costs and long-term outcomes of early childhood interventions and programmes will be included. Outcomes may be valued in monetary units or quantified non-monetary units (eg, quality-adjusted life years (QALY), disability-adjusted life years (DALY)). Results will be expressed as a ratio according to the outcome; with monetary outcomes expressed as cost-benefit ratios or return on investment, and non-monetary outcomes expressed as cost per QALY or DALY. The target population is children aged 0–5 years.

Extensive database searches across sectors will be undertaken. The review will involve five phases: defining the research question, identifying relevant studies, selecting studies, extracting and collating data, and summarising and reporting results. The search commenced in 2019 and the expected end date is December 2020.

Ethics and dissemination

The findings of this review will inform policymakers and practitioners in public health, education, social welfare and primary care settings. The publication plan includes a series of academic publications, and policy papers prepared and disseminated through Telethon Kids Institute networks. Exemption from ethics approval was granted by the University of Western Australia Human Ethics Office (RA/4/20/5677).

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020145901.
‘Presumptively Initiating Vaccines and Optimizing Talk with Motivational Interviewing’ (PIVOT with MI) trial: a protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial of a clinician vaccine communication intervention
Authors: Opel Douglas J , Robinson Jeffrey D , Spielvogle Heather , Spina Christine , Garrett Kathleen , Dempsey Amanda F , Perreira Cathryn , Dickinson Miriam , Zhou Chuan , Pahud Barbara , Taylor James A , O'Leary Sean T
Published: August 2020

Introduction

A key contributor to underimmunisation is parental refusal or delay of vaccines due to vaccine concerns. Many clinicians lack confidence in communicating with vaccine-hesitant parents (VHP) and perceive that their discussions will do little to change parents’ minds. Improving clinician communication with VHPs is critical to increasing childhood vaccine uptake.

Methods and analysis

We describe the protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial to test the impact of a novel, multifaceted clinician vaccine communication strategy on child immunisation status. The trial will be conducted in 24 primary care practices in two US states (Washington and Colorado). The strategy is called Presumptively Initiating Vaccines and Optimizing Talk with Motivational Interviewing (PIVOT with MI), and involves clinicians initiating the vaccine conversation with all parents of young children using the presumptive format, and among those parents who resist vaccines, pivoting to using MI. Our primary outcome is the immunisation status of children of VHPs at 19 months, 0 day of age expressed as the percentage of days underimmunised from birth to 19 months for 22 doses of eight vaccines recommended during this interval. Secondary outcomes include clinician experience communicating with VHPs, parent visit experience and clinician adherence to the PIVOT with MI communication strategy.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is approved by the following institutional review boards: Colorado Multiple Institutional Review Board, Washington State Institutional Review Board and Swedish Health Services Institutional Review Board. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed manuscripts and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT03885232.
Acute opioid withdrawal syndrome from naloxone/naloxegol interaction
Authors: Olmo Montserrat , González-Barboteo Jesús , Moreno-Alonso Deborah , Coma Eva , Serrano Gala
Published: August 2020

Naloxegol is a new peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist to treat opioid-induced constipation with supposedly no effect on opioid analgesia. We present a patient with cancer-related pain who developed acute opioid withdrawal symptoms due to an interaction between the opioid antagonist naloxone and naloxegol. He was treated with oxycodone sustained release because of poor pain control. For opioid-related constipation, he had been receiving naloxegol. He complained about worsening pain and constipation and oxycodone was switched to oxycodone/naloxone. Shortly after intake, he experienced acute severe agitation, anxiety, sweating, tachycardia, disorientation and yawning without improvement after intravenous midazolam. Only after intravenous morphine administration, symptoms were controlled. He was switched back to the previous oxycodone dose without naloxone, with naloxegol being maintained. In the light of this case we suggest to avoid the use of naloxone and naloxegol in combination, or at least, to use it with extreme caution and monitorisation of tolerance.
Gastrointestinal consequences of cancer treatment: evaluation of 10 years’ experience at a tertiary UK centre
Authors: Gadhok Radha , Paulon Emma , Tai Chehkuan , Olushola Tomisin , Barragry John , Rahman Farooq , Di Caro Simona , Mehta Shameer
Published: August 2020

Objective

Up to 90% of patients treated for pelvic cancers experience chronic gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. This study characterises this patient cohort at a single centre, addressing a paucity of publications reporting ‘real-world’ experiences.

Method

Outpatient referrals, from oncology to the gastroenterology and nutrition services, at a tertiary London hospital from 2006 to 2016, were retrospectively identified. Patient characteristics, reported symptoms, investigations, diagnoses, response to therapeutics and follow-up were recorded.

Results

Of 269 patients referred, 81% were within the latter 5 years. A total of 260 patients had diagnoses of pelvic cancers (prostatic (52%), cervical (19%) and endometrial (19%)). Among 247 treated with radiotherapy, the median time from radiotherapy to symptom onset was 8 months. Common symptoms were rectal bleeding (51%), diarrhoea (32%), faecal urgency (19%) and pain (19%). Patients underwent a median of three investigations including lower GI endoscopy (86%), thyroid function tests (33%) and glucose hydrogen breath test (30%). Diagnoses included radiation proctopathy (39%), colonic polyps (16%), pelvic floor dysfunction (12%), bile acid malabsorption (BAM) (8%), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) (8%), vitamin D deficiency (7%) and iron deficiency (7%). Among 164 discharged patients, the time to discharge was 7 months, after a median of two appointments.

Conclusions

This unique patient group reports a complex mix of symptoms and requires specialist review and consideration of often uninvestigated diagnoses (pelvic dysfunction, BAM, SIBO and nutritional deficiencies). Such patients are often overlooked, compared with those suffering many other chronic GI disorders. Further reports from non-dedicated centres treating patients with pelvic radiation disease will aid in understanding of secondary GI diagnoses and variation in practice.
Finite element analysis and design of cold-formed steel built-up closed columns with flange and web intermediate stiffeners
Authors: Aruna G. , Karthika V. , Sukumar S.
Published: August 2020

This paper describes a finite element analysis (FEA) and design of cold-formed steel built-up closed sections with intermediate stiffeners in the flange and web under axial compression. A finite element model (FEM) was developed and validated using the available experimental results. The validated FEM can be used for further parametric study on strength of built-up closed columns. The results obtained from the parametric study are compared with the current direct strength method (DSM) in the North American specification of cold-formed steel structures for those specimens that failed by only local, distortional, and flexural buckling. It is shown that the current DSM is not quite suitable for the design of cold-formed steel built-up closed columns. Therefore, the improved design equations are proposed by modifying the current design equations used in the DSM for flexural, local, and distortional buckling. The reliability of current DSM and proposed DSM was assessed by reliability analysis.
How random are predictions of forest growth? The importance of weather variability
Authors: Horemans Joanna , Vindušková Olga , Deckmyn Gaby
Published: August 2020

Quantifying the output uncertainty and tracking down its origins is key to interpreting the results of modelling studies. We performed such an uncertainty analysis on the predictions of forest growth and yield under climate change. We specifically focused on the effect of the interannual climate variability. For that, the climate years in the model input (daily resolution) were randomly shuffled within each 5-year period. In total, 540 simulations (10 parameter sets, nine climate shuffles, three global climate models, and two mitigation scenarios) were made for one growing cycle (80 years) of a Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) forest growing in Peitz, Germany. Our results show that, besides the important effect of the parameter set, the random order of climate years can significantly change results such as basal area and produced volume, as well as the response of these to climate change. We stress that the effect of weather variability should be included in the design of impact model ensembles and in the accompanying uncertainty analysis. We further suggest presenting model results as likelihoods to allow risk assessment. For example, in our study, the likelihood of a decrease in basal area of >10% with no mitigation was 20.4%, whereas the likelihood of an increase >10% was 34.4%.
Dendroclimatic investigations and cross-dating in the 1700s: the tree-ring investigations of Johan Leche (1704–1764) in southwestern Finland
Authors: Norrgård Stefan , Helama Samuli
Published: August 2020

Cross-dating is considered one of the most important principles of dendrochronology. The first known cross-dating attempts, conducted between the years 1737 and 1783 by independent researchers in France, Germany, and Sweden, were related to the identification of growth rings believed to have formed during the harsh winter of 1708–1709. In this paper, we present a novel perspective on the birth of dendrochronology and cross-dating in the 1700s. We focus on the ideas and experimental studies of one of the lesser known pioneers, Johan Leche (1704–1764), the Professor of Medicine at the Royal Academy (Turku, Finland). Instead of winter harshness, Leche was fascinated by the drought that killed and damaged several trees and tree species in the summer of 1757. Leche conducted several dendrochronological and field experiments described only in his unpublished manuscript filed in the National Archives in Sweden. Reviewing Leche’s measurements of ring-width series of multiple radii and his comparisons between the radii, it seems only fair to include him in the long list of natural historians who made important contributions to the field of dendrochronology. His manuscript was never published, which is why Leche’s dendrochronological experiments and recommendations never reached a wider audience.
Biorefinery potential ofEucalyptus grandisto produce phenolic compounds and biogas
Authors: Poveda-Giraldo Jhonny A. , Cardona Alzate Carlos A.
Published: August 2020

Vanillin is widely known in the food industry as the main flavoring compound of vanilla. Its natural extraction from the seed is not enough to supply the worldwide vanillin demand; therefore, new chemical routes from biomass have been developed to satisfy the vanillin market. A biorefinery for forest waste valorization could be an opportunity to maximize the economic gains and reduce the environmental impact in an integrated approach. This work demonstrates the experimental production of vanillin and vanillic acid through black liquor oxidation, after alkaline pretreatment of Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden chips. Additionally, the remaining solid fraction was valorized by anaerobic digestion. The experimental yields in the oxidation stage were 4.37% and 2.14% (based on lignin) for vanillin and vanillic acid, respectively. The biogas productivity in anaerobic digestion was 163 mL·g volatile solids–1. These values were the basis for the process simulation to analyze the potential for an integrated biorefinery. From an economic perspective, the process is feasible at a minimal processing scale of 8.58 t·h–1. On the other hand, the environmental assessment concludes that the environmental impact is mainly affected by the CO2and CH4emissions from biogas upgrading.
Thin-shell wormholes in de Rham–Gabadadze–Tolley massive gravity
Authors: Tangphati Takol , Chatrabhuti Auttakit , Samart Daris , Channuie Phongpichit
Published: August 2020

In this work, we study the thin-shell wormholes in dRGT massive gravity. In order to glue two bulks of the spacetime geometry, we first derive junction conditions of the dRGT spacetime. We obtain the dynamics of the spherical thin-shell wormholes in the dRGT theory. We show that the massive graviton correction term of the dRGT theory in the Einstein equation is represented in terms of the effective anisotropic pressure fluid. However, if there is only this correction term, without invoking exotic fluids, we find that the thin-shell wormholes cannot be stabilized. We then examine the stability conditions of the wormholes by introducing four existing models of the exotic fluids at the throat. In addition, we analyze the energy conditions for the thin-shell wormholes in the dRGT massive gravity by checking the null, weak, and strong conditions at the wormhole throat. We show that in general the classical energy conditions are violated by introducing all existing models of the exotic fluids. Moreover, we quantify the wormhole geometry by using the embedding diagrams to represent a thin-shell wormhole in the dRGT massive gravity.