bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance evaluation and ranking of regional primary health care and public health Systems in Iran
Authors: Rashidian Arash , Jahanmehr Nader , Farzadfar Farshad , Khosravi Ardeshir , Shariati Mohammad , Sari Ali Akbari , Damiri Soheila , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: October 2021

Background

The present study has been undertaken with the aim to evaluate performance and ranking of various universities of medical sciences that are responsible for providing public health services and primary health care in Iran.

Methods

Four models; Weighted Factor Analysis (WFA), Equal Weighting (EW), Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA), and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) have been applied for evaluating the performance of universities of medical sciences. This study was commenced based on the statistical reports of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME), census data from the Statistical Center of Iran, indicators of Vital Statistics, results of Multiple Indicator of Demographic and Health Survey 2010, and results of the National Survey of Risk Factors of non-communicable diseases.

Results

The average performance scores in WFA, EW, SFA, and DEA methods for the universities were 0.611, 0.663, 0.736 and 0.838, respectively. In all 4 models, the performance scores of universities were different (range from 0.56–1, 0.53–1, 0.73–1 and 0.83–1 in WFA, EW, SFA and DEA models, respectively). Gilan and Rafsanjan universities with the average ranking score of 4.75 and 41 had the highest and lowest rank among universities, respectively. The universities of Gilan, Ardabil and Bojnourd in all four models had the highest performance among the top 15 universities, while the universities of Rafsanjan, Ahvaz, Kerman and Jiroft showed poor performance in all models.

Conclusions

The average performance scores have varied based on different measurement methods, so judging the performance of universities based solely on the results of a model can be misleading. In all models, the performance of universities has been different, which indicates the need for planning to balance the performance improvement of universities based on learning from the experiences of well-performing universities.
“They’re very passionate about making sure that women stay healthy”: a qualitative examination of women’s experiences participating in a community paramedicine program
Authors: Schwab-Reese Laura M. , Renner Lynette M. , King Hannah , Miller R. Paul , Forman Darren , Krumenacker Joshua S. , DeMaria Andrea L.
Published: October 2021

Background

Community paramedicine programs (i.e., physician-directed preventive care by emergency medical services personnel embedded in communities) offer a novel approach to community-based health care. Project Swaddle, a community paramedicine program for mothers and their infants, seeks to address (directly or through referrals) the physical, mental, social, and economic needs of its participants. The objective of this process evaluation was to describe women’s experiences in Project Swaddle. By understanding their experiences, our work begins to build the foundation for similar programs and future examinations of the efficacy and effectiveness of these approaches.

Methods

We completed 21 interviews with women living in Indiana (July 2019–February 2020) who were currently participating in or had graduated from Project Swaddle. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a six-phase approach to thematic analysis.

Results

Program enrollment was influenced by the community paramedics’ experience and connections, as well as information received in the community from related clinics or organizations. Participants viewed the community paramedic as a trusted provider who supplied necessary health information and support and served as their advocate. In their role as physician extenders, the community paramedics enhanced patient care through monitoring critical situations, facilitating communication with other providers, and supporting routine healthcare. Women noted how community paramedics connected them to outside resources (i.e., other experts, tangible goods), which aimed to support their holistic health and wellbeing.

Conclusions

Results demonstrate Project Swaddle helped women connect with other healthcare providers, including increased access to mental health services. The community paramedics were able to help women establish care with primary care providers and pediatricians, then facilitate communication with these providers. Women were supported through their early motherhood experience, received education on parenting and taking control of their health, and gained access to resources that met their diverse needs.
Baseline assessment of patient safety culture in primary care centres in Kuwait: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: ALFadhalah Talal , Al Mudaf Buthaina , Alghanim Hanaa A. , Al Salem Gheed , Ali Dina , Abdelwahab Hythem M. , Elamir Hossam
Published: October 2021

Background

Assessments of the culture surrounding patient safety can inform healthcare settings on how their structures and processes impact patient outcomes. This study investigated patient safety culture in Primary Health Care Centres in Kuwait, and benchmarked the findings against regional and international results. This study also examined the association between predictors and outcomes of patient safety culture in these settings.

Methods

This cross-sectional quantitative study used the Medical Office Survey on Patient Safety Culture. The study was targeted at staff of all the Primary Health Care Centres in Kuwait with at least one year of experience. Data were analysed using SPSS 23 at a significance level of ≤ .05. Univariate (means, standard deviations, frequencies, percentages) and bivariate (chi-squared tests, student t-tests, ANOVA F-tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests, Spearman’s correlation) analyses provided an overview of participant socio-demographics and the association between patient safety culture composites and outcomes. We undertook a multivariate regression analysis to predict the determinants of patient safety culture. Results were benchmarked against similar local (Kuwait, 2014), regional (Yemen, 2015) and international (US, 2018) studies.

Results

The responses of 6602 employees from 94 centres were included in the study, with an overall response rate of 78.7%. The survey revealed Teamwork (87.8% positive ratings) and Organisational Learning (78.8%) as perceived areas of strength. Communication about Error (57.7%), Overall Perceptions of Patient Safety and Quality (57.4%), Communication Openness (54.4%), Owner/Managing Partner/Leadership Support for Patient Safety (53.8%) and Work Pressure and Pace (28.4%) were identified as areas requiring improvement. Benchmarking analysis revealed that Kuwait centres are performing at benchmark levels or better on four and six composites when compared to international and regional findings, respectively. Regression modelling highlighted significant predictions regarding patient safety outcomes and composites.

Conclusions

This is the first major study addressing the culture of patient safety in public Primary Health Care Centres regionally. Improving patient safety culture is critical for these centres to improve the quality and safety of the healthcare services they provide. The findings of this study can guide country-level strategies to develop the systems that govern patient safety practices.
Plastid phylogenomic insights into relationships of all flowering plant families
Authors: Li Hong-Tao , Luo Yang , Gan Lu , Ma Peng-Fei , Gao Lian-Ming , Yang Jun-Bo , Cai Jie , Gitzendanner Matthew A. , Fritsch Peter W. , Zhang Ting , Jin Jian-Jun , Zeng Chun-Xia , Wang Hong , Yu Wen-Bin , Zhang Rong , van der Bank Michelle , Olmstead Richard G. , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Chase Mark W. , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Yi Ting-Shuang , Li De-Zhu
Published: October 2021

Background

Flowering plants (angiosperms) are dominant components of global terrestrial ecosystems, but phylogenetic relationships at the familial level and above remain only partially resolved, greatly impeding our full understanding of their evolution and early diversification. The plastome, typically mapped as a circular genome, has been the most important molecular data source for plant phylogeny reconstruction for decades.

Results

Here, we assembled by far the largest plastid dataset of angiosperms, composed of 80 genes from 4792 plastomes of 4660 species in 2024 genera representing all currently recognized families. Our phylogenetic tree (PPA II) is essentially congruent with those of previous plastid phylogenomic analyses but generally provides greater clade support. In the PPA II tree, 75% of nodes at or above the ordinal level and 78% at or above the familial level were resolved with high bootstrap support (BP ≥ 90). We obtained strong support for many interordinal and interfamilial relationships that were poorly resolved previously within the core eudicots, such as Dilleniales, Saxifragales, and Vitales being resolved as successive sisters to the remaining rosids, and Santalales, Berberidopsidales, and Caryophyllales as successive sisters to the asterids. However, the placement of magnoliids, although resolved as sister to all otherMesangiospermae, is not well supported and disagrees with topologies inferred from nuclear data. Relationships among the five major clades ofMesangiospermaeremain intractable despite increased sampling, probably due to an ancient rapid radiation.

Conclusions

We provide the most comprehensive dataset of plastomes to date and a well-resolved phylogenetic tree, which together provide a strong foundation for future evolutionary studies of flowering plants.
Mechanical behaviour of healthy versus alkali-lesioned corneas by a porcine organ culture model
Authors: Fontanella Chiara Giulia , Carniel Emanuele Luigi , Corain Livio , Peruffo Antonella , Iacopetti Ilaria , Pavan Piero G. , Todros Silvia , Perazzi Anna
Published: October 2021

Background

Cornea is a composite tissue exhibiting nonlinear and time-dependent mechanical properties. Corneal ulcers are one of the main pathologies that affect this tissue, disrupting its structural integrity and leading to impaired functions. In this study, uniaxial tensile and stress-relaxation tests are developed to evaluate stress-strain and time-dependent mechanical behaviour of porcine corneas.

Results

The samples are split in two groups: some corneas are analysed in an unaltered state (healthy samples), while others are injured with alkaline solution to create an experimental ulcer (lesioned samples). Furthermore, within each group, corneas are examined in two conditions: few hours after the enucleation (fresh samples) or after 7 days in a specific culture medium for the tissue (cultured samples). Finally, another condition is added: corneas from all the groups undergo or not a cross-linking treatment. In both stress-strain and stress-relaxation tests, a weakening of the tissue is observed due to the imposed conditions (lesion, culture and treatment), represented by a lower stiffness and increased stress-relaxation.

Conclusions

Alkali-induced corneal stromal melting determines changes in the mechanical response that can be related to a damage at microstructural level. The results of the present study represent the basis for the investigation of traditional and innovative corneal therapies.
Efficacy of umeclidinium/vilanterol according to the degree of reversibility of airflow limitation at screening: a post hoc analysis of the EMAX trial
Authors: Vogelmeier Claus F. , Jones Paul W. , Kerwin Edward M. , Boucot Isabelle H. , Maltais François , Tombs Lee , Compton Chris , Lipson David A. , Bjermer Leif H.
Published: October 2021

Background

In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the relationship between short-term bronchodilator reversibility and longer-term response to bronchodilators is unclear. Here, we investigated whether the efficacy of long-acting bronchodilators is associated with reversibility of airflow limitation in patients with COPD with a low exacerbation risk not receiving inhaled corticosteroids.

Methods

The double-blind, double-dummy EMAX trial randomised patients to umeclidinium/vilanterol 62.5/25 µg once daily, umeclidinium 62.5 µg once daily, or salmeterol 50 µg twice daily. Bronchodilator reversibility to salbutamol was measured once at screening and defined as an increase in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) of ≥ 12% and ≥ 200 mL 10−30 min post salbutamol. Post hoc, fractional polynomial (FP) modelling was conducted using the degree of reversibility (mL) at screening as a continuous variable to investigate its relationship to mean change from baseline in trough FEV1 and self-administered computerised-Transition Dyspnoea Index (SAC-TDI) at Week 24, Evaluating Respiratory Symptoms-COPD (E-RS) at Weeks 21–24, and rescue medication use (puffs/day) over Weeks 1–24. Analyses were conducted across the full range of reversibility (−850–896 mL); however, results are presented for the range −100–400 mL because there were few participants with values outside this range.

Results

The mean (standard deviation) reversibility was 130 mL (156) and the median was 113 mL; 625/2425 (26%) patients were reversible. There was a trend towards greater improvements in trough FEV1, SAC-TDI, E-RS and rescue medication use with umeclidinium/vilanterol with higher reversibility. Improvements in trough FEV1 and reductions in rescue medication use were greater with umeclidinium/vilanterol compared with either monotherapy across the range of reversibility. Greater improvements in SAC-TDI and E-RS total scores were observed with umeclidinium/vilanterol versus monotherapy in the middle of the reversibility range.

Conclusions

FP analyses suggest that patients with higher levels of reversibility have greater improvements in lung function and symptoms in response to bronchodilators. Improvements in lung function and rescue medication use were greater with umeclidinium/vilanterol versus monotherapy across the full range of reversibility, suggesting that the dual bronchodilator umeclidinium/vilanterol may be an appropriate treatment for patients with symptomatic COPD, regardless of their level of reversibility.
Dysfunctional lactate metabolism in human alveolar type II cells from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis lung explant tissue
Authors: Newton Danforth A. , Lottes Robyn G. , Ryan Rita M. , Spyropoulos Demetri D. , Baatz John E.
Published: October 2021

Background

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is the most common and progressive form of the interstitial lung diseases, leading most patients to require lung transplants to survive. Despite the relatively well-defined role of the fibroblast in the progression of IPF, it is the alveolar type II epithelial cell (AEC2) that is now considered the initiation site of damage, driver of disease, and the most efficacious therapeutic target for long-term resolution. Based on our previous studies, we hypothesize that altered lactate metabolism in AEC2 plays a pivotal role in IPF development and progression, affecting key cellular and molecular interactions within the pulmonary microenvironment.

Methods

AEC2s isolated from human patient specimens of non-fibrotic and IPF lungs were used for metabolic measurements, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) analyses and siRNA-mediated knockdown experiments.

Results

AEC2s isolated from human IPF lung explant tissues had lower rates of oxidative metabolism and were more glycolytic lactate-producing cells than were AEC2 from control, non-fibrotic lung explant tissues. Consistent with this shift in metabolism, patient-derived IPF AEC2s exhibited LDH tetramers that have higher ratios of LDHA:LDHB (i.e., favoring pyruvate to lactate conversion) than control AEC2s. Experimental manipulation of LDHA subunit expression in IPF AEC2s restored the bioenergetic profile characteristic of AEC2 from non-fibrotic lungs.

Conclusions

These results are consistent with the concept that altered lactate metabolism may be an underlying feature of AEC2 dysfunction in IPF and may be a novel and important target for therapeutic treatment.
A systematic review of proteomic biomarkers in oral squamous cell cancer
Authors: Pillai Jyotsnaa , Chincholkar Tanvi , Dixit Ruhi , Pandey Manoj
Published: October 2021

Background

Head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) is the most common cancer associated with chewing tobacco, in the world. As this is divided in to sites and subsites, it does not make it to top 10 cancers. The most common subsite is the oral cancer. At the time of diagnosis, more than 50% of patients with oral squamous cell cancers (OSCC) had advanced disease, indicating the lack of availability of early detection and risk assessment biomarkers. The new protein biomarker development and discovery will aid in early diagnosis and treatment which lead to targeted treatment and ultimately a good prognosis.

Methods

This systematic review was performed as per PRISMA guidelines. All relevant studies assessing characteristics of oral cancer and proteomics were considered for analysis. Only human studies published in English were included, and abstracts, incomplete articles, and cell line or animal studies were excluded.

Results

A total of 308 articles were found, of which 112 were found to be relevant after exclusion. The present review focuses on techniques of cancer proteomics and discovery of biomarkers using these techniques. The signature of protein expression may be used to predict drug response and clinical course of disease and could be used to individualize therapy with such knowledge.

Conclusions

Prospective use of these markers in the clinical setting will enable early detection, prediction of response to treatment, improvement in treatment selection, and early detection of tumor recurrence for disease monitoring. However, most of these markers for OSCC are yet to be validated.
Drivers of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) lineage replacement in China
Authors: Chen Hongbin , Yin Yuyao , van Dorp Lucy , Shaw Liam P. , Gao Hua , Acman Mislav , Yuan Jizhen , Chen Fengning , Sun Shijun , Wang Xiaojuan , Li Shuguang , Zhang Yawei , Farrer Rhys A. , Wang Hui , Balloux Francois
Published: October 2021

Background

Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) is a major nosocomial pathogen subdivided into lineages termed sequence types (STs). Since the 1950s, successive waves of STs have appeared and replaced previously dominant lineages. One such event has been occurring in China since 2013, with community-associated (CA-MRSA) strains including ST59 largely replacing the previously dominant healthcare-associated (HA-MRSA) ST239. We previously showed that ST59 isolates tend to have a competitive advantage in growth experiments against ST239. However, the underlying genomic and phenotypic drivers of this replacement event are unclear.

Methods

Here, we investigated the replacement of ST239 using whole-genome sequencing data from 204 ST239 and ST59 isolates collected in Chinese hospitals between 1994 and 2016. We reconstructed the evolutionary history of each ST and considered two non-mutually exclusive hypotheses for ST59 replacing ST239: antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profile and/or ability to colonise and persist in the environment through biofilm formation. We also investigated the differences in cytolytic activity, linked to higher virulence, between STs. We performed an association study using the presence and absence of accessory virulence genes.

Results

ST59 isolates carried fewer AMR genes than ST239 and showed no evidence of evolving towards higher AMR. Biofilm production was marginally higher in ST59 overall, though this effect was not consistent across sub-lineages so is unlikely to be a sole driver of replacement. Consistent with previous observations of higher virulence in CA-MRSA STs, we observed that ST59 isolates exhibit significantly higher cytolytic activity than ST239 isolates, despite carrying on average fewer putative virulence genes. Our association study identified the chemotaxis inhibitory protein (chp) as a strong candidate for involvement in the increased virulence potential of ST59. We experimentally validated the role ofchpin increasing the virulence potential of ST59 by creating Δchpknockout mutants, confirming that ST59 can carrychpwithout a measurable impact on fitness.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the ongoing replacement of ST239 by ST59 in China is not associated to higher AMR carriage or biofilm production. However, the increase in ST59 prevalence is concerning since it is linked to a higher potential for virulence, aided by the carriage of thechpgene.
Atypical involvement of central nervous system in classic Hodgkin lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Ahmed Shanila , Irfan Babar , Raza Muhammad , Haider Ghulam
Published: October 2021

Background

Hodgkin lymphoma is a systemic disease that commonly involves the cervical, supraclavicular, and mediastinal lymph nodes. The involvement of central nervous system in Hodgkin lymphoma is extremely rare, and diagnosis is usually established using distinct morphological and immunohistochemical staining on the tissue biopsied. Extranodal presentation of HL is a rare occurrence. It has been evident that prognosis is encouraging in patients with disease that is limited to just central nervous system initially or as relapse, compared with involvement of multiple sites of relapse.

Case presentation

We herein report a case of a 35-year-old South-East Asian male with relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma. The patient developed a parotid gland lesion, cervical lymphadenopathy with significant weight loss, and intermittent night sweats. Along with spread to the central nervous system, there was a high suspicion of tuberculosis. Upon biopsy of his cervical lymph node, the patient was confirmed to have Hodgkin lymphoma. Immediate treatment began with six cycles of chemotherapy consisting of adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine. The patient received three cycles of chemotherapy consisting of ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide but then was lost to follow-up. Five years later, the patient suffered a road traffic accident. Upon work-up, a right parietal space-occupying lesion with moderate cerebral edema and midline shift was found on computed tomography of the brain. The patient underwent resection of the space-occupying lesion of brain, with features consistent with classical Hodgkin lymphoma on histopathology examination. It is crucial for such lesions to be investigated meticulously to rule out any secondary disease process.

Conclusion

Relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma with central nervous system involvement is relatively rare with just over two dozen cases reported to date and is observed infrequently in developing nations. Therefore, space-occupying lesion should always be investigated, and biopsy of such lesions is gold standard to establish diagnosis. With timely appropriate therapy, complete remission can be achieved. However, large-scale studies would be prudent to explore the presentation, survival, and treatment options for patients with Hodgkin lymphoma involving the central nervous system.
Ocular adverse events from pharmacological treatment in patients with multiple sclerosis—A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Muñoz-Ortiz Juliana , Reyes-Guanes Juliana , Zapata-Bravo Estefanía , Mora-Muñoz Laura , Reyes-Hurtado Juan Antonio , Tierradentro-García Luis Octavio , Rojas-Carabali William , Gómez-Suarez Marcela , de-la-Torre Alejandra
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to review the scientific evidence and describe the ocular treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) related to pharmacological treatment in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Methods

A systematic review of literature was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines in the MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, and COCHRANE databases. Articles were filtered based on title and abstract considering the selection criteria and subsequently filtered by full-text reading. The resulting articles were evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Quality Tools. Study characteristics and results were extracted and presented in structured tables to conduct a narrative synthesis.

Results

A total of 2852 published articles were extracted using our strategy. After removing duplicates, 2841 articles were screened based on title and abstract, 102 articles were evaluated using quality tools, and 69 articles were filtered by full-text reading. Through this search strategy, 60 articles met all the inclusion criteria and seven articles, through a search update conducted in the same manner, were included. This resulted in 67 articles meeting the inclusion criteria, of which 11 were experimental and 56 were observational. The therapies related to ocular TEAEs were alemtuzumab, amantadine, fingolimod, steroids, CTLA-4 Ig, estriol, interferon β, natalizumab, hyperbaric oxygen, rituximab, siponimod, teriflunomide, and tovaxin. Fingolimod and siponimod were commonly associated with macular edema, interferon β was associated with retinopathy, alemtuzumab was associated with thyroid eye disease, amantadine was associated with corneal edema, and steroids were associated with acute retinal necrosis. Opportunistic infections were also found, and there was one life-threatening case.

Conclusions

Our search revealed different methodological assessments of the topic. However, longitudinal studies regarding ocular TEAEs related to multiple sclerosis therapy are necessary to provide evidence-based recommendations, especially in understudied regions such as Latin America and Africa. Physicians should monitor ocular symptoms in patients being treated for multiple sclerosis and consider an interdisciplinary approach.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO ID CRD42020106886
Alteration of the gut microbiome in mycophenolate-induced enteropathy: impacts on the profile of short-chain fatty acids in a mouse model
Authors: Jardou Manon , Provost Quentin , Brossier Clarisse , Pinault Émilie , Sauvage François-Ludovic , Lawson Roland
Published: October 2021

Background

Mycophenolic acid (MPA) is the most widely used immunosuppressive drug in transplantation and for autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, more than 30% of patients experience a typical gastrointestinal adverse effect also referred to as mycophenolate-induced enteropathy. Due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, MPA exposure is associated with intestinal dysbiosis characterized by a decrease in density and diversity of the microbiome regarding the main bacterial phyla (Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes). These bacterial phyla are known for their metabolic role in maintaining the homeostasis of the digestive tract, particularly through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) that could contribute to the pathophysiology of mycophenolate-induced enteropathy. Our study aimed at deciphering short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) profile alterations associated with gastrointestinal toxicity of MPA at the digestive and systemic levels in a mouse model.

Methods

Ten-week old C57BL/6 (SOPF) mice were randomly assigned in 2 groups of 9 subjects: control, and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF, 900 mg/kg/day). All mice were daily treated by oral gavage for 7 days. Individual faecal pellets were collected at days 0, 4 and 8 as well as plasma at day 8 for SCFA profiling. Additionally, after the sacrifice on day 8, the caecum was weighted, and colon length was measured. The proximal colon was cut for histological analysis.

Results

MMF treatment induced around 10% weight loss at the end of the protocol associated with a significant decrease in caecum weight and a slight reduction in colon length. Histological analysis showed significant architectural changes in colon epithelium. Moreover, we observed an overall decrease in SCFA concentrations in faecal samples, especially regarding acetate (at day 8, control 1040.6 ± 278.161 μM versus MMF 384.7 ± 80.5 μM,p< 0.01) and propionate (at day 8, control 185.94 ± 51.96 μM versus MMF 44.07 ± 14.66 μM,p< 0.001), and in plasma samples for butyrate (at day 8, control 0.91 ± 0.1 μM versus MMF 0.46 ± 0.1 μM,p <0.01).

Conclusions

These results are consistent with functional impairment of the gut microbiome linked with digestive or systemic defects during MMF treatment.
Effects of low temperature on electrophysiology and mechanophysiology of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs)
Authors: Kanade Pooja P. , Oyunbaatar Nomin-Erdene , Lee Dong-Weon
Published: October 2021

Studies related to low temperature and their effect on cardiomyocytes are essential as hypothermia—like situations have been known to induce arrhythmia or ventricular fibrillation. Till date, several studies have been carried out on animals and their electrophysiological responses have been studied in the form of action potential. However, for a complete assessment of the effect of low temperature, mechanophysiological changes along with electrophysiological changes need to be investigated, at the tissue level. In this study, the effect of culture temperature on cell growth has been studied by measuring the field potential and contractility of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. This study has the potential to further improve the understanding of low temperature on human cells.
The achievement gap in reading competence: the effect of measurement non-invariance across school types
Authors: Rohm Theresa , Carstensen Claus H. , Fischer Luise , Gnambs Timo
Published: October 2021

Background

After elementary school, students in Germany are separated into different school tracks (i.e., school types) with the aim of creating homogeneous student groups in secondary school. Consequently, the development of students’ reading achievement diverges across school types. Findings on this achievement gap have been criticized as depending on the quality of the administered measure. Therefore, the present study examined to what degree differential item functioning affects estimates of the achievement gap in reading competence.

Methods

Using data from the German National Educational Panel Study, reading competence was investigated across three timepoints during secondary school: in grades 5, 7, and 9 (N = 7276). First, using the invariance alignment method, measurement invariance across school types was tested. Then, multilevel structural equation models were used to examine whether a lack of measurement invariance between school types affected the results regarding reading development.

Results

Our analyses revealed some measurement non-invariant items that did not alter the patterns of competence development found among school types in the longitudinal modeling approach. However, misleading conclusions about the development of reading competence in different school types emerged when the hierarchical data structure (i.e., students being nested in schools) was not taken into account.

Conclusions

We assessed the relevance of measurement invariance and accounting for clustering in the context of longitudinal competence measurement. Even though differential item functioning between school types was found for each measurement occasion, taking these differences in item estimates into account did not alter the parallel pattern of reading competence development across German secondary school types. However, ignoring the clustered data structure of students being nested within schools led to an overestimation of the statistical significance of school type effects.
Fast determination of phthalates in mussel samples by micro-matrix solid-phase dispersion (micro-MSPD) coupled with GC–MS/MS
Authors: Carro Nieves , Mouteira Ana , García Isabel , Ignacio María , Cobas Julio
Published: October 2021

A fast, effective and low cost sample preparation method based on miniaturized matrix solid-phase dispersion (micro-MSPD) combined with gas chromatography coupled to tandem triple-quadrupole-mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS) has been developed for the determination of six phthalate diesters (DMP, DEP, DBP, BzBP, DEHP and DnOP) in mussel samples. The six target compounds have been included in the list of priority pollutants by United States Environmental Protection Agency. The extraction step was optimized on real spiked mussel coming from Galician Rías by means of a factorial design. The final procedure involved the use of 0.45 g of sample, 0.5 g of dispersant agent (Florisil) and 3 mL of organic solvent (ethyl acetate). The optimized method was validated giving satisfactory analytical performance, low detection limits (0.09 to 6.73 ng g−1 dw) and high recoveries (93 and 114%). The validated method was applied to four real mussel samples coming from Galician Rías.
How stable is program quality in child care centre classrooms?
Authors: Varmuza Petr , Perlman Michal , Falenchuk Olesya
Published: October 2021

In the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector there is a move to reduce oversight costs by reducing the frequency of quality assessments in providers who score highly consistently across time. However, virtually nothing is known about the stability of ECEC quality assessments over time. Using a validated measure of overall classroom quality, we examined stability of quality in a sample of over 1000 classrooms in licensed child care centres in Toronto, Canada over a 3-year period. Multilevel mixed-effects linear regression analyses revealed substantial instability across all types of ECEC centres, although publicly operated centres were somewhat more stable and tended to have higher quality scores. We also found substantial variance between classrooms within ECEC centres. None of the structural, child/family and neighbourhood characteristics we examined were significantly related to stability of quality ratings. The lack of stability found in our sample does not support the use of a risk-based approach to quality oversight in ECEC. Large within centre classroom quality variance suggest that all classrooms within a centre should be assessed individually. Furthermore, classroom level scores should be posted when scores are made public as part of accountability systems. Future research should, in addition to administrative data used in our study, explore how factors such as educator training, participation in program planning, reflective practices and ongoing learning might improve stability of quality over time.
The treasure inside barley seeds: microbial diversity and plant beneficial bacteria
Authors: Bziuk Nina , Maccario Lorrie , Straube Benjamin , Wehner Gwendolin , Sørensen Søren J. , Schikora Adam , Smalla Kornelia
Published: October 2021

Background

Bacteria associated with plants can enhance the plants’ growth and resistance against phytopathogens. Today, growers aim to reduce the use of mineral fertilizers and pesticides. Since phytopathogens cause severe yield losses in crop production systems, biological alternatives gain more attention. Plant and also seed endophytes have the potential to influence the plant, especially seed-borne bacteria may express their beneficiary impact at initial plant developmental stages. In the current study, we assessed the endophytic seed microbiome of seven genetically diverse barley accessions by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and verified the in vitro plant beneficial potential of isolated seed endophytes. Furthermore, we investigated the impact of the barley genotype and its seed microbiome on the rhizosphere microbiome at an early growth stage by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.

Results

The plant genotype displayed a significant impact on the microbiota in both barley seed and rhizosphere. Consequently, the microbial alpha- and beta-diversity of the endophytic seed microbiome was highly influenced by the genotype. Interestingly, no correlation was observed between the endophytic seed microbiome and the single nucleotide polymorphisms of the seven genotypes. Unclassified members of Enterobacteriaceae were by far most dominant. Other abundant genera in the seed microbiome belonged to Curtobacterium, Paenibacillus, Pantoea, Sanguibacter and Saccharibacillus. Endophytes isolated from barley seeds were affiliated to dominant genera of the core seed microbiome, based on their 16S rRNA gene sequence. Most of these endophytic isolates produced in vitro plant beneficial secondary metabolites known to induce plant resistance.

Conclusion

Although barley accessions representing high genetic diversity displayed a genotype-dependent endophytic seed microbiome, a core seed microbiome with high relative abundances was identified. Endophytic isolates were affiliated to members of the core seed microbiome and many of them showed plant beneficial properties. We propose therefore that new breeding strategies should consider genotypes with high abundance of beneficial microbes.
Defining gut mycobiota for wild animals: a need for caution in assigning authentic resident fungal taxa
Authors: Lavrinienko Anton , Scholier Tiffany , Bates Scott T. , Miller Andrew N. , Watts Phillip C.
Published: October 2021

Animal gut mycobiota, the community of fungi that reside within the gastrointestinal tract, make an important contribution to host health. Accordingly, there is an emerging interest to quantify the gut mycobiota of wild animals. However, many studies of wild animal gut mycobiota do not distinguish between the fungi that likely can reside within animal gastrointestinal tracts from the fungal taxa that are non-residents, such as macrofungi, lichens or plant symbionts/pathogens that can be ingested as part of the host’s diet. Confounding the non-resident and resident gut fungi may obscure attempts to identify processes associated with the authentic, resident gut mycobiota per se. To redress this problem, we propose some strategies to filter the taxa identified within an apparent gut mycobiota based on an assessment of host ecology and fungal traits. Consideration of the different sources and roles of fungi present within the gastrointestinal tract should facilitate a more precise understanding of the causes and consequences of variation in wild animal gut mycobiota composition.
The role of the gut microbiota in the dietary niche expansion of fishing bats
Authors: Aizpurua Ostaizka , Nyholm Lasse , Morris Evie , Chaverri Gloriana , Herrera Montalvo L. Gerardo , Flores-Martinez José Juan , Lin Aiqing , Razgour Orly , Gilbert M. Thomas P. , Alberdi Antton
Published: October 2021

Background

Due to its central role in animal nutrition, the gut microbiota is likely a relevant factor shaping dietary niche shifts. We analysed both the impact and contribution of the gut microbiota to the dietary niche expansion of the only four bat species that have incorporated fish into their primarily arthropodophage diet.

Results

We first compared the taxonomic and functional features of the gut microbiota of the four piscivorous bats to that of 11 strictly arthropodophagous species using 16S rRNA targeted amplicon sequencing. Second, we increased the resolution of our analyses for one of the piscivorous bat species, namelyMyotis capaccinii,and analysed multiple populations combining targeted approaches with shotgun sequencing. To better understand the origin of gut microorganisms, we also analysed the gut microbiota of their fish prey (Gambusia holbrooki). Our analyses showed that piscivorous bats carry a characteristic gut microbiota that differs from that of their strict arthropodophagous counterparts, in which the most relevant bacteria have been directly acquired from their fish prey. This characteristic microbiota exhibits enrichment of genes involved in vitamin biosynthesis, as well as complex carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, likely providing their hosts with an enhanced capacity to metabolise the glycosphingolipids and long-chain fatty acids that are particularly abundant in fish.

Conclusions

Our results depict the gut microbiota as a relevant element in facilitating the dietary transition from arthropodophagy to piscivory.
Impurity profiling method development and validation of metformin hydrochloride and teneligliptin hydrobromide hydrate in their combination tablet dosage form by using RP-HPLC with UV/PDA detector
Authors: Musmade B. D. , Baraskar M. L. , Ghodke V. N. , Bhope S. G. , Padmanabhan S. , Lohar K. S.
Published: October 2021

Background

An accurate, precise and robust analytical method was developed for the impurity profiling in the metformin hydrochloride and teneligliptin hydrobromide hydrate tablet. The gradient was optimized for better separation of impurities by using BDS Hypersil C18 250 × 4.6 mm, 5µ column operated at 35 °C. The octane sulfonic acid and phosphate buffer with triethylamine at pH 3.0 were used as mobile phase A, and acetonitrile was used as mobile phase B. The mobile phase was pumped at 1.0 mL/min. The gradient was optimized for better resolution, and the chromatogram was monitored at 210 nm.

Results

The % recovery of teneligliptin and metformin HCL observed was above 90% from LOQ level to 150%. The correlation coefficient r2 was 0.999 for metformin HCl, teneligliptin, melamine, cyanocobalamin, teneligliptin impurity A and 0.998 for teneligliptin impurity B. The method was found unaffected by change in method variance during the robustness study. During the stress study with acid, base, peroxide and temperature, maximum degradation was observed with peroxide indicating the sensitivity of the molecule toward oxidative stress.

Conclusions

The developed method is precise, accurate, robust and linear and hence can be routinely used for the related substance analysis of metformin hydrochloride and teneligliptin hydrobromide hydrate tablet in the quality control laboratory at manufacturing site during the commercial manufacturing.
How can psychiatrists make mental health services more accessible for people with autism?
Authors: Roy Ashok
Published: October 2021

Unrecognised psychiatric and medical conditions can lead poorer health outcomes, lower health-related quality of life and increased mortality in people with autism, compared with the general population. A reasonable adjustment required in mainstream services is patient prioritisation by clinicians with knowledge and understanding of autism. Developed as part of the revised autism strategy, the recently developed autism competency framework lists the range of capabilities that psychiatrists who treat people with autism should have. Psychiatrists could lead the workforce transformation required to make the reasonable adjustments to mainstream mental health services needed to improve outcomes for people with autism.
Response-Adapted Postinduction Strategy in Patients With Advanced-Stage Follicular Lymphoma: The FOLL12 Study
Authors: Luminari Stefano , Manni Martina , Galimberti Sara , Versari Annibale , Tucci Alessandra , Boccomini Carola , Farina Lucia , Olivieri Jacopo , Marcheselli Luigi , Guerra Luca , Ferrero Simone , Arcaini Luca , Cavallo Federica , Kovalchuk Sofya , Skrypets Tetiana , del Giudice Ilaria , Chauvie Stephane , Patti Caterina , Stelitano Caterina , Ricci Francesca , Pinto Antonello , Margiotta Casaluci Gloria , Zilioli Vittorio R. , Merli Anna , Ladetto Marco , Bolis Silvia , Pavone Vincenzo , Chiarenza Annalisa , Arcari Annalisa , Anastasia Antonella , Dondi Alessandra , Mannina Donato , Federico Massimo ,   on behalf of Fondazione Italiana Linfomi
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE

We compared 2 years of rituximab maintenance (RM) with a response-adapted postinduction approach in patients with follicular lymphoma who responded to induction immunochemotherapy.

METHODS

We randomly assigned treatment-naïve, advanced-stage, high-tumor burden follicular lymphoma patients to receive standard RM or a response-adapted postinduction approach on the basis of metabolic response and molecular assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD). The experimental arm used three types of postinduction therapies: for complete metabolic response (CMR) and MRD-negative patients, observation; for CMR and MRD-positive (end of induction or follow-up) patients, four doses of rituximab (one per week, maximum three courses) until MRD-negative; and for non-CMR patients, one dose of ibritumomab tiuxetan followed by standard RM. The study was designed as noninferiority trial with progression-free survival (PFS) as the primary end point.

RESULTS

Overall, 807 patients were randomly assigned. After a median follow-up of 53 months (range, 1-92 months), patients in the standard arm had a significantly better PFS than those in the experimental arm (3-year PFS 86% v 72%; P < .001). The better PFS of the standard versus experimental arm was confirmed in all the study subgroups except non-CMR patients (n = 65; P = .274). The 3-year overall survival was 98% (95% CI, 96 to 99) and 97% (95% CI, 95 to 99) in the reference and experimental arms, respectively ( P = .238).

CONCLUSION

A metabolic and molecular response-adapted therapy as assessed in the FOLL12 study was associated with significantly inferior PFS compared with 2-year RM. The better efficacy of standard RM was confirmed in the subgroup analysis and particularly for patients achieving both CMR and MRD-negative.
Opportunity Costs of Surgical Resection and Perioperative Chemotherapy for Locoregional Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lim Szu-Aun , Hao Scarlett B. , Boyd Breana A. , Mitsakos Anastasios , Irish William , Burke Aidan M. , Parikh Alexander A. , Snyder Rebecca A.
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE:

Given the perioperative morbidity and intensity of multimodality treatment, patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) spend a substantial amount of time in clinical care. The primary aim was to determine total time spent in multimodality care for patients with locoregional PDAC.

METHODS:

A cohort study of all patients who underwent curative-intent resection for PDAC at a single-institution, tertiary care center was performed (2015-2019). Exact times for all relevant visits were abstracted from the primary medical record, and travel time was calculated. Care time was divided into preoperative, surgical, radiation, and systemic therapy phases of care. Primary outcome measures were the percentage of total survival time (TST) and percentage of overall survival (OS) days spent in receipt of care.

RESULTS:

One hundred seven patients were included. Patients spent a median of 5.0% (interquartile range [IQR] 2.4%-10.1%) of TST and 11.0% (IQR, 5.7%-20.4%) of OS days in receipt of clinical care. Preoperative, surgical, radiation, and systemic therapy phases of care comprised a median of 0.9% (IQR, 0.4%-2.2%), 3.0% (IQR, 1.9%-6.8%), 4.4% (IQR, 3.6%-6.3%), and 10.0% (IQR, 6.2%-14.1%) of OS days. The median per-visit travel time was 60 minutes (IQR, 32-120), and the median cumulative travel time was 22.0 hours (IQR, 12.0-51.5). 12.1% (n = 13) and 7.8% (n = 4) of patients spent > 10% of TST in receipt of surgical and systemic therapy care, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with locoregional pancreatic cancer spend a considerable percentage of their survival time in receipt of oncologic care. Further research to determine predictors of increased time burden is warranted to better inform shared decision making.
Cento
Authors: Bernstein Charles ,   Various Voices
Published: October 2021

A roundup of Charles Bernstein's interviews outside the US: (1) “Interview with Romina Freschi” (Argentina, 2005), previously published only in Spanish; (2) “Frequently Unasked Questions,” with Versatorium (Austria, 2011), previously published only in German in Der Standard; (3) “Interview with Philip Davenport” (England, 2012), focusing on the marginalization of radical formal poetry in the US versus the UK; (4) “Interview with Maurizio Medo” (Peru, 2014), previously published only in Spanish, focusing on the importance of Cage and Mac Low and the problems with the designations “experimental,” “representative,” and “failed”; (5) “Interview with Alcir Pécora and Régis Bonvicino” (Brazil, 2014), on the “infranatural” and echopoetics; (6) “Indigo: Interview with Paata Shamugia” (Georgia, 2016); (7) “Project Transcreation Interview with Runa Bandyopadhyay” (India, 2019); (8) “Interview by Habib Tengour in Pour ainsi dire,” a collection of Bernstein poems translated by Tengour (Algeria, 2019), previously published only in French; (9) “Interview with Mariano Peyrou” (Spain, 2020), previously published only in Spanish in El Mundo.