bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The lower COVID-19 related mortality and incidence rates in Eastern European countries are associated with delayed start of community circulation
Authors: Ylli Alban , Wu Yan Yan , Burazeri Genc , Pirkle Catherine , Sentell Tetine
Published: May 2020

Background

The purpose of this analysis was to assess the variations in COVID-19 related mortality and incidence rates in relation to the time differences in the commencement of virus circulation and containment measures in different countries of the European Region.

Methods

The data for the current analysis (N=50 countries) were retrieved from the John Hopkins University dataset on the 7th of May 2020, with countries as study units. A piecewise regression analysis was conducted with mortality and cumulative incidence rates introduced as dependent variables and time interval (days from the 22nd of January to the date when 100 first cases were reported) as the main predictor. The country average life expectancy at birth was statistically adjusted for in the regression model.

Results

Mortality and incidence were strongly and inversely intercorrelated with days from January 22, respectively −0.83 (p<.0001) and −0.73 (p<.0001). Adjusting for average life expectancy, between days 33 to 50 from the 22th of the January, the average mortality rate decreased by 30.4/million per day (95% CI: 23.2, 37.1, p<0.0001). During interval 51 to 73 days, the change in mortality was no longer statistically significant but still showed a decreasing trend. A similar relationship with time interval was found in incidence. Life expectancy was not associated with mortality rate.

Conclusion

Countries in Europe which observed the earliest COVID-19 circulation, suffered the worst consequences in terms of health outcomes, specifically mortality. The drastic social isolation measures, undertaken especially in Eastern European countries, where community circulation started after March 11th, may have been timely. This may explain their significantly lower COVID-related mortality compared with the Western European countries.
Uncertainty Quantification in Radiogenomics: EGFR Amplification in Glioblastoma
Authors: Hu Leland S. , Wang Lujia , Hawkins-Daarud Andrea , Eschbacher Jennifer M. , Singleton Kyle W. , Jackson Pamela R. , Clark-Swanson Kamala , Sereduk Christopher P. , Peng Sen , Wang Panwen , Wang Junwen , Baxter Leslie C. , Smith Kris A. , Mazza Gina L. , Stokes Ashley M. , Bendok Bernard R. , Zimmerman Richard S. , Krishna Chandan , Porter Alyx B. , Mrugala Maciej M. , Hoxworth Joseph M. , Wu Teresa , Tran Nhan L. , Swanson Kristin R. , Li Jing
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Radiogenomics uses machine-learning (ML) to directly connect the morphologic and physiological appearance of tumors on clinical imaging with underlying genomic features. Despite extensive growth in the area of radiogenomics across many cancers, and its potential role in advancing clinical decision making, no published studies have directly addressed uncertainty in these model predictions.

METHODS

We developed a radiogenomics ML model to quantify uncertainty using transductive Gaussian Processes (GP) and a unique dataset of 95 image-localized biopsies with spatially matched MRI from 25 untreated Glioblastoma (GBM) patients. The model generated predictions for regional EGFR amplification status (a common and important target in GBM) to resolve the intratumoral genetic heterogeneity across each individual tumor - a key factor for future personalized therapeutic paradigms. The model used probability distributions for each sample prediction to quantify uncertainty, and used transductive learning to reduce the overall uncertainty. We compared predictive accuracy and uncertainty of the transductive learning GP model against a standard GP model using leave-one-patient-out cross validation.

RESULTS

Predictive uncertainty informed the likelihood of achieving an accurate sample prediction. When stratifying predictions based on uncertainty, we observed substantially higher performance in the group cohort (75% accuracy, n=95) and amongst sample predictions with the lowest uncertainty (83% accuracy, n=72) compared to predictions with higher uncertainty (48% accuracy, n=23), due largely to data interpolation (rather than extrapolation).

CONCLUSION

We present a novel approach to quantify radiogenomics uncertainty to enhance model performance and clinical interpretability. This should help integrate more reliable radiogenomics models for improved medical decision-making.
Anterior Cingulate Cortex Directs Exploration of Alternative Strategies
Authors: Tervo D. Gowanlock R. , Kuleshova Elena , Manakov Maxim , Proskurin Mikhail , Karlsson Mattias , Lustig Andy , Behnam Reza , Karpova Alla Y.
Published: May 2020

The ability to adjust one’s behavioral strategy in complex environments is at the core of cognition. Doing so efficiently requires monitoring the reliability of the ongoing strategy and switching away from it to evaluate alternatives when appropriate. Studies in humans and non-human primates have uncovered signals in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) that track the pressure to switch away from the ongoing strategy, and others that relate to the pursuit of alternatives. However, whether these signals underlie computations that actually underpin strategy switching, or merely reflect tracking of related variables remains unclear. Here we provide causal evidence that rodent ACC actively arbitrates between persisting with ongoing behavioral choice and switching away temporarily to re-evaluate alternatives. Furthermore, by individually perturbing distinct output pathways, we establish that the two associated computations – whether to switch away from the current choice, and the pursuit of alternatives – are segregated within ACC micro-circuitry.
Intolerance of uncertainty is associated with heightened responding in the prefrontal cortex during instructed outcome uncertainty of threat
Authors: Morriss Jayne , Bell Tiffany , Biagi Nicolò , Johnstone Tom , van Reekum Carien M.
Published: May 2020

Heightened responding to uncertain threat is considered a hallmark of anxiety disorder pathology. Here, we sought to determine if individual differences in self-reported intolerance of uncertainty (IU), a key transdiagnostic dimension in anxiety-related pathology, underlies differential recruitment of neural circuitry during instructed outcome uncertainty of threat (n= 42). In an instructed threat of shock task, cues signalled uncertain threat of shock (50%) or certain safety from shock outcomes. Ratings of arousal and valence, skin conductance response (SCR) and functional magnetic resonance imaging were acquired. Overall, participants displayed greater ratings of arousal and negative valence, SCR, and amygdala activation to uncertain threat vs. safe cues. IU was not associated with greater arousal ratings, SCR or amygdala activation to uncertain threat vs. safe cues. However, we found that high IU was associated with greater ratings of negative valence and greater activity in the medial prefrontal cortex and dorsomedial rostral prefrontal cortex to uncertain threat vs safe cues. These findings suggest that during instructed outcome uncertainty of threat, individuals high in IU rate uncertain threat as aversive and engage prefrontal cortical regions known to be involved in safety-signalling and conscious threat appraisal. Taken together, these findings highlight the potential of IU in modulating safety-signalling and conscious appraisal mechanisms in situations with instructed outcome uncertainty of threat, which may be relevant to models of anxiety-related pathology.
The Outcome Impact of Early vs Late HFNC Oxygen Therapy in Elderly Patients with COVID-19 and ARDS
Authors: Deng Liehua , Lei Shaoqing , Jiang Fang , Lubarsky David A. , Zhang Liangqing , Liu Danyong , Han Conghua , Zhou Dunrong , Wang Zheng , Sun Xiaocong , Zhang Yuanli , Cheung Chi Wai , Wang Sheng , Xia Zhong-yuan , Applegate Richard L , Liu Hong , Tang Jing , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread worldwide. High-flow nasal cannula therapy (HFNC) is a major oxygen supporting therapy for severely ill patients, but information regarding the timing of HFNC application is scarce, especially in elderly patients. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 110 elderly patients (≥65 years) who received HFNC from Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, People’s Hospital of Xiantao City and Chinese Medicine Hospital of Shishou City in Hubei Province, China, and from Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, People’s Hospital of Yangjiang City, People’s Hospital of Maoming City in Guangdong Province, China.

Of the 110 patients, the median age was 71 years (IQR, 68-78) and 59.1% was male. Thirty-eight patients received HFNC when 200 mmHg < PO2/FiO2 ≤ 300 mmHg (early HFNC group), and 72 patients received HFNC treatment when 100 mmHg < PaO2/FiO2 ≤ 200 mmHg (late HFNC group). Compared with the late HFNC group, patients in the early HFNC group had a lower likelihood of developing severe ARDS, longer time from illness onset to severe ARDS and shorter duration of viral shedding after illness onset, as well as shorter lengths of ICU and hospital stay. Twenty-four patients died during hospitalization, of whom 22 deaths (30.6%) were in the late HFNC group and 2(5.3%) in the early HFNC group. It is concluded that the Prognosis was better in severely ill elderly patients with COVID-19 receiving early compared to late HFNC. This suggests HFNC could be considered early in this disease process.
Time delay epidemic model for COVID-19
Authors: Maleewong Montri
Published: May 2020

A time delay epidemic model is presented for the spread of the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in China. The time delay effects affect infected individuals. Monte Carlo simulation is performed to estimate the transmission and recovery rates. The basic reproduction number is estimated in terms of the average infected ratio. This ratio can be used to monitor the policy performance of disease control during the spread of the disease.
A comparative study of isothermal nucleic acid amplification methods for SARS-CoV-2 detection at point-of-care
Authors: Tran Diem Hong , Cuong Hoang Quoc , Tran Hau Thi , Le Uyen Phuong , Do Hoang Dang Khoa , Bui Le Minh , Hai Nguyen Duc , Linh Hoang Thuy , Thao Nguyen Thi Thanh , Anh Nguyen Hoang , Hieu Nguyen Trung , Thang Cao Minh , Vu Van Van , Phung Huong Thi Thu
Published: May 2020

COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has spread worldwide and put most of the world under lockdown. Despite that there have been emergently approved vaccines for SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths have remained rising. Thus, rapid diagnosis and necessary public health measures are still key parts to contain the pandemic. In this study, the colorimetric isothermal nucleic acid amplification tests (iNAATs) for SARS-CoV-2 detection based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), cross-priming amplification (CPA), and polymerase spiral reaction (PSR) were designed and evaluated. The three methods showed the same limit of detection (LOD) value of 1 copy of the targeted gene per reaction. However, for the direct detection of SARS-CoV-2 genomic-RNA, LAMP outperformed both CPA and PSR, exhibiting the LOD value of roughly 43.14 genome copies/reaction. The results can be read with the naked eye within 45 minutes, without cross-reactivity to closely related coronaviruses. Moreover, the direct detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in simulated patient specimens by iNAATs was also successful. Finally, the ready-to-use lyophilized reagents for LAMP reactions were shown to maintain the sensitivity and LOD value of the liquid assays. The results indicate that the colorimetric lyophilized LAMP kit developed herein is highly suitable for detecting SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acids at point-of-care.
HSP90 inhibition modulates NFκB signaling in airway goblet cell metaplasia
Authors: Tudas Rosarie A. , Gannon Ryan M. , Thurman Andrew L. , Stroik Mallory R. , Zabner Joseph , Pezzulo Alejandro A.
Published: May 2020

Goblet cell metaplasia and mucus hyper-production are key features of chronic muco-obstructive lung diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis. Various mechanisms lead to goblet cell metaplasia in the airways; the driving mechanism for goblet cell metaplasia in a specific patient may be unknown. We recently found that heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is important for both IL-13- and IL-17- induced airway goblet cell metaplasia. HSP90 interacts with multiple clients that are important in goblet cell metaplasia including Akt, Jak/STAT, IRS, Notch, and various kinases involved in NFκB signaling. Here, we used a targeted phospho-proteomic approach to identify candidate HSP90 clients modulated by the HSP90-inhibitor geldanamycin. NFκB family members were enriched amongst the top candidate targets of HSP90 inhibition in IL-13 an organotypic model of human airway epithelia. We hypothesized that HSP90 inhibition modulated goblet cell metaplasia by interfering with NFκB signaling. We used transcription factor activation, nuclear translocation, and phospho-specific immunofluorescence assays to investigate how IL-13 exposure and HSP90 inhibition modulated NFκB. We found that HSP90 inhibition prevented goblet cell metaplasia by non-canonically blocking NFκB p100/p52 function in human airway epithelia. NFκB modulation via its interaction with HSP90 is a pharmaceutically feasible therapeutic target for goblet cell metaplasia; this approach may enable treatment of patients with chronic muco-inflammatory lung diseases with both known or unidentified disease-driving mechanisms.
Evaluation of the disinfecting capacity of ozone in emergency vehicles
Authors: Cía Jorge Biurrun , Martínez Begoña García , Montero Andrea Perez , Kochan Grazyna , Escors David , Martinez José Crespo , Uzcudun Iñigo Lasa , Sucunza Alfredo Echarri
Published: May 2020

Objective

As a consequence of the health crisis arising from the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic, ozone treatments are being applied as disinfectant in emergency vehicles, without objective evidence on its efficacy. Here we evaluate the efficacy of ozone treatment over bacterial strains and virus-like particles.

Method

A preparation of a lentiviral vector (lentivector) and dried cultures of two bacterial strains (gram + Staphylococcus aureus and gram - Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis) were placed inside an ambulance at two different locations. The interior of the vehicle was subjected to 10 min and 20 min treatments (3 and 6 times the recommended time by the manufacturer). Following the treatments, lentivector preparations were titrated, and viable bacteria (colony forming units, CFUs) counted and compared to pre-treatment titers and infectious CFUs of the same lysates and cultures.

Results

None of the treatments significantly reduced either lentivector titer or the number of viable bacteria.

Conclusions

At least in the analyzed conditions and for the microorganisms used in this study, it can be concluded that ozone treatment is not advisable for the disinfection of emergency vehicles.
Diagnostic performance of CT and its key signs for COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Xiuting , Zhong Yuhui , Qin Wanyue , Zhang Zhenxi , Li Kai
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic value of chest CT in 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), using the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) as a reference standard. At the same time, the imaging features of CT in confirmed COVID-19 patients would be summarized.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of 5 electronic databases was performed. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated using the random-effects model and the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve. We also conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the pooled incidence of the chest CT imaging findings and the 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Meta-regression analysis was used to explore the source of heterogeneity.

Results

Overall, 25 articles comprising 4,857 patients were included. The pooled sensitivity of CT was 93% (95% CI, 89-96%) and specificity was 44% (95% CI, 27-62%). The area under the SROC curve was 0.94 (95% CI, 0.91-0.96). For the RT-PCR assay, the pooled sensitivity of the initial test and the missed diagnosis rate after the second-round test were 76% (95% CI: 59-89%; I2=96%) and 26% (95% CI: 14-39%; I2=45%), respectively. According to the subgroup analysis, the diagnostic sensitivity of CT in Hubei was higher than that in other regions. Besides, the most common patterns on CT imaging finding was ground glass opacities (GGO) 58% (95% CI: 49-70%), followed by air bronchogram 51% (95% CI: 31-70%). Lesions were inclined to distribute in peripheral 64% (95% CI: 49-78%), and the incidence of bilateral lung involvement was 69% (95% CI: 58-79%).

Conclusions

There were still several cases of missed diagnosis after multiple RT-PCR examinations. In high-prevalence areas, CT could be recommended as an auxiliary screening method for RT-PCR.

Key points

Taking RT-PCR as the reference standard, the pooled sensitivity of CT was 93% (95% CI, 89-96%) and the specificity was 44% (95% CI, 27-62%). The area under the SROC curve was 0.94 (95% CI, 0.91-0.96).

For the RT-PCR assay, the pooled sensitivity of the initial test and the missed diagnosis rate after the second-round test were 76% (95% CI: 59-89%) and 26% (95% CI: 14-39%), respectively.

GGO was the key sign of the CT imaging, with an incidence of 58% (95% CI: 49-70%) in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Pneumonia lesions were inclined to distribute in peripheral 64% (95% CI: 49-78%) and bilateral 69% (95% CI: 58-79%) lung lobes.
Reaching collective immunity for COVID-19: an estimate with a heterogeneous model based on the data for Italy
Authors: Gerasimov Andrey , Lebedev Georgy , Lebedev Mikhail , Semenycheva Irina
Published: May 2020

Background

At the current stage of COVID-19 pandemic, forecasts become particularly important regarding the possibility that the total incidence could reach the level where the disease stops spreading because a considerable portion of the population has become immune and collective immunity could be reached. Such forecasts are valuable because the currently undertaken restrictive measures prevent mass morbidity but do not result in the development of a robust collective immunity. Thus, in the absence of efficient vaccines and medical treatments, lifting restrictive measures carries the risk that a second wave of the epidemic could occur.

Methods

We developed a heterogeneous model of COVID-19 dynamics. The model accounted for the differences in the infection risk across subpopulations, particularly the age-depended susceptibility to the disease. Based on this model, an equation for the minimal number of infections was calculated as a condition for the epidemic to start declining. The basic reproductive number of 2.5 was used for the disease spread without restrictions. The model was applied to COVID-19 data from Italy.

Findings

We found that the heterogeneous model of epidemic dynamics yielded a lower proportion, compared to a homogeneous model, for the minimal incidence needed for the epidemic to stop. When applied to the data for Italy, the model yielded a more optimistic assessment of the minimum total incidence needed to reach collective immunity: 43% versus 60% estimated with a homogeneous model.

Interpretation

Because of the high heterogeneity of COVID-19 infection risk across the different age groups, with a higher susceptibility for the elderly, homogeneous models overestimate the level of collective immunity needed for the disease to stop spreading. This inaccuracy can be corrected by the homogeneous model introduced here. To improve the estimate even further additional factors should be considered that contribute to heterogeneity, including social and professional activity, gender and individual resistance to the pathogen.

Funding

This work was supported by a grant from the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation, a unique project identifier RFMEFI60819X0278.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Medical Resource Deficiencies in the U.S. under COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sha Dexuan , Miao Xin , Lan Hai , Stewart Kathleen , Ruan Shiyang , Tian Yifei , Tian Yuyang , Yang Chaowei
Published: May 2020

A data-driven approach is developed to estimate medical resource deficiencies or medical burden at county level during the COVID-19 pandemic from February 15, 2020 to May 1, 2020 in the U.S. Multiple data sources were used to extract local population, hospital beds, critical care staff, COVID-19 confirmed case numbers, and hospitalization data at county level. We estimate the average length of stay from hospitalization data at state level, and calculate the hospitalized rate at both state and county level. Then we develop two medical resource deficiency indices that measure the local medical burden based on the number of accumulated active confirmed cases normalized by local maximum potential medical resources, and the number of hospitalized patients that can be supported per ICU beds per critical care staff, respectively. The medical resources data, and the two medical resource deficiency indices are illustrated in a dynamic spatiotemporal visualization platform based on ArcGIS Pro Dashboards. Our results provide new insights into the U.S. pandemic preparedness and local dynamics relating to medical burdens in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
FAM83F regulates canonical Wnt signalling through an interaction with CK1α
Authors: Dunbar Karen , Jones Rebecca A. , Dingwell Kevin , Macartney Thomas J. , Smith James C. , Sapkota Gopal P.
Published: May 2020

The function of the FAM83F protein, like the functions of many members of the FAM83 family, is poorly understood. Here we show that injection of Fam83f mRNA intoXenopusembryos causes axis duplication, a phenotype indicative of enhanced Wnt signalling. Consistent with this, overexpression of FAM83F activates Wnt signalling, whilst ablation of FAM83F from human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells attenuates it. We demonstrate that FAM83F is farnesylated and interacts and co-localises with CK1α at the plasma membrane. This interaction with CK1α is essential for FAM83F to activate Wnt signalling, and FAM83F mutants that do not interact with CK1α fail to induce axis duplication inXenopusembryos and to activate Wnt signalling in cells. FAM83F acts upstream of the β-catenin destruction complex, because the attenuation of Wnt signalling caused by loss of FAM83F can be rescued by GSK-3 inhibition. Introduction of a farnesyl-deficient mutant mis-localises the FAM83F-CK1α complex to the nucleus and significantly attenuates Wnt signalling, indicating that FAM83F exerts its effects on Wnt signalling at the plasma membrane.
Association between Cardiovascular Burden and Requirement of Intensive Care among Patients with Mild COVID-19
Authors: Tai Shi , Tang Jianjun , Yu Bilian , Tang Liang , Wang Yang , Zhang Huilin , Zhu Weihong , Xiao Kui , Wen Chuan , Tan Chongqin , Jiang Zhongbiao , Jiang Chuanhao , Zhu Li , Jiang Li , Liu Qiming , Hu Xinqun , Fang Zhenfei , Li Xuping , Sun Jiaxing , Zhu Zhaowei , Yang Hui , Tu Tao , Xiao Yichao , Chen Mingxian , He Yuhu , Chai Xiangping , Xu Junmei , Zhou Shenghua
Published: May 2020

Background

Information regarding the impact of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on disease progression among patients with mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is limited.

Methods

This study evaluated the association of underlying CVD with disease progression in patients with mild COVID-19. The primary outcome was the need to be transferred to intensive care due to disease progression. The patients were divided with and without CVD as well as stable and intensive care groups.

Results

Of 332 patients with mild COVID-19, median age was 51 years (IQR, 40-59 years), and 200 (61.2%) were female. Of 48 (14.5%) patients with CVD, 23 (47.9%) progressed to severe disease status and required intensive care. Compared with patients without CVD, patients with CVD were older, and more likely to have fatigue, chest tightness, and myalgia. The rate of requiring intensive care was significantly higher among patients with CVD than in patients without CVD (47.92% vs. 12.4%; P<0.001). In subgroup analysis, rate of requiring intensive care was also higher among patients with either hypertension or coronary heart disease than in patients without hypertension or coronary heart disease. The multivariable regression model showed CVD served as an independent risk factor for intensive care (Odd ratio [OR], 2.652 [95% CI, 1.019-6.899]) after adjustment for various cofounders.

Conclusions

Patients with mild COVID-19 complicating CVD in are susceptible to develop severe disease status and requirement for intensive care.

Key Points

Question

What is the impact of coexisting cardiovascular diseases (CVD) on disease progression in patients with mild COVID-19?

Findings

Although most patients with mild COVID-19 were discharged alive from hospital, approximately 47.9% patients with coexisting CVD developed severe disease status and required intensive care. CVD is an independent risk factor of intensive care among patients with mild COVID-19.

Meaning

Coexisting CVD is associated with unfavorable outcomes among patients with mild COVID-19. Special monitoring is required for these patients to improve their outcome.
Improved detection of antibody against SARS-CoV-2 by microsphere-based antibody assay
Authors: Fong Carol Ho-Yan , Cai Jian-Piao , Dissanayake Thrimendra Kaushika , Chen Lin-Lei , Choi Charlotte Yee-Ki , Wong Lok-Hin , Ng Anthony Chin-Ki , Pang Polly K.P. , Ho Deborah Tip-Yin , Poon Rosana Wing-Shan , Chung Tom Wai-Hin , Sridhar Siddharth , Chan Kwok-Hung , Chan Jasper Fuk-Woo , Hung Ivan Fan-Ngai , Yuen Kwok-Yung , To Kelvin Kai-Wang
Published: May 2020

Objective

Currently available COVID-19 antibody tests using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or immunochromatographic assay have variable sensitivity and specificity. Here, we developed and evaluated a novel microsphere-based antibody assay (MBA) for the detection of immunoglobulin G (IgG) against SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein (NP) and spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD).

Method

We developed a microsphere-based assay (MBA) to determine the levels of IgG against SARS-CoV-2 NP and spike RBD. The seropositive cut-off mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) was set using a cohort of 294 anonymous serum specimens collected in 2018. The specificity was assessed using serum specimens collected from organ donors or influenza patients before 2020. Seropositive rate was determined among patients with COVID-19. Time-to-seropositivity and signal-to-cutoff (S/CO) ratio were compared between MBA and EIA.

Results

MBA had a specificity of 100% (93/93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 96-100%) for anti-NP IgG and 98.9% (92/93; 95% CI 94.2-100%) for anti-RBD IgG. The MBA seropositive rate for convalescent serum specimens of COVID-19 patients were 89.8% (35/39) for anti-NP IgG and 79.5% (31/39) for anti-RBD IgG. The time-to-seropositivity was shorter with MBA than that of EIA. When compared with EIA, MBA could better differentiate between COVID-19 patients and negative controls with significantly higher S/CO ratio for COVID-19 patients and lower S/CO ratio with negative controls. MBA also had fewer specimens in the equivocal range (S/CO 0.9-1.1) than EIA.

Conclusion

MBA is robust and simple, and is suitable for clinical microbiology laboratory for the accurate determination of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody for retrospective diagnosis, serosurveillance, and vaccine trials.
Hydrogen bonding in the crystal structure of phurcalite, Ca2[(UO2)3O2(PO4)2]·7H2O: single-crystal X-ray study and TORQUE calculations
Authors: Plášil Jakub , Kiefer Boris , Ghazisaeed Seyedat , Philippo Simon
Published: May 2020

The crystal structure of phurcalite, Ca2[(UO2)3O2(PO4)2]·7H2O, orthorhombic, a = 17.3785 (9) Å, b = 15.9864 (8) Å, c = 13.5477 (10) Å, V = 3763.8 (4) Å3, space group Pbca, Z = 8 has been refined from single-crystal XRD data to R = 0.042 for 3182 unique [I > 3σ(I)] reflections and the hydrogen-bonding scheme has been refined by theoretical calculations based on the TORQUE method. The phurcalite structure is layered, with uranyl phosphate sheets of the phosphuranylite topology which are linked by extensive hydrogen bonds across the interlayer occupied by Ca2+ cations and H2O groups. In contrast to previous studies the approach here reveals five transformer H2O groups (compared to three expected by a previous study) and two non-transformer H2O groups. One of the transformer H2O groups is, nevertheless, not linked to any metal cation, which is a less frequent type of H2O bonding in solid state compounds and minerals. The structural formula of phurcalite has been therefore redefined as {Ca2(H2
[3]O)5(H2
[4]O)2}[(UO2)3O2(PO4)2], Z = 8.
Requirements modeling of Web services-based business processes
Authors: Afzal Ayesha , Shafiq Basit , Shamail Shafay , Adam Nabil
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper reviews existing business process (BP) modeling languages that are widely used in the industry as well as recent research work on modeling and analysis of BPs in the service-oriented environment and Internetware-based software paradigm. BPs in such environment are different from traditional BPs due to loose coupling of partner services, dynamic and on-the-fly selection of partners and run-time process adaptability. The unique characteristics of these BPs require formal modeling of the requirements and constraints in each phase of their life cycle, including design phase, implementation and deployment phase and execution phase.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first provides a categorization of typical user requirements in each phase of the BP life cycle. Then a detailed comparison of the selected languages with respect to their requirement modeling and analysis capabilities in each of the identified categories is provided. The paper also discusses new requirements engineering research challenges arising from future software needs and emerging trends in software engineering in the context of Web-services-based BPs and Internetware.

Findings

There is a need to have a framework that provides support for user requirements modeling and analysis for all the phases of BP life cycle in an integrated manner. Such a framework would be useful not only in resolving the inconsistencies between requirements across phases but also in addressing the issues related to BP evolution due to changes in user requirements over time. Moreover, with the Internet of things (IoT) adoption in BPM, there is a need to have an integrated environment that provides support for capturing the resilience requirements of enterprise BPs as well as the mobility constraints of the underlying IoT devices.

Originality/value

This paper reviews existing BP modeling languages and frameworks and discusses the new requirements engineering research challenges arising from future software needs and the emerging trends in BP management in the service-oriented environment and Internetware-based software paradigm.
Theoretical understanding of sociomateriality in workplace studies
Authors: Kim Yujin , Yang Eunhwa
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a theoretical framework for workplace research based on sociomateriality. Sociomateriality is a theory to explain the effects of social practice and materiality in an organization. Workplace studies in facility management (FM) can adopt this theory to understand the complex relationships between physical work environments and human factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Review of sociomateriality was conducted to understand the connection to existing workplace studies in FM. This study addresses the components of the workplace through the sociomateriality perspective.

Findings

The main focuses in sociomateriality theory are materiality and social practice. For workplace concepts specifically in FM, workplaces and their components are a material agency, and work and workers are a social practice agency. By considering both materiality and sociality in workplace environments, researchers can understand office dynamics and interrelationships. Lastly, two statistical analysis methods are suggested to analyze the framework: structural equation modeling and multilevel analysis.

Originality/value

To understand the human–environment relationship, it is essential to consider both materiality and social practice perspectives simultaneously. The proposed framework can be a foundation to explain the complex interactions between the physical environment and human factors of workers in individual organizations.
Health‐related behaviors and mental health states of South Korean adolescents with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Kyung Yechan , Lee Ju Suk , Lee Jun Hwa , Jo Seon Hui , Kim Sung Hoon
Published: May 2020

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disease with a negative influence on adolescent mental health state. We aimed to identify the influencing factors for mental health in adolescents with AD. We used data from the 13th Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web‐based Survey (KYRBS) conducted in 2017. KYRBS data were obtained from a stratified, multistage, clustered sample. Participants responded to the question “have you ever been diagnosed with AD by a doctor?” and several yes/no questions about stress, depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. Among 62 276 participants, the proportion of adolescents with AD was 25.0%. Compared with adolescents without AD, those with AD were significantly more likely to experience stress, depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation (P < 0.001) at rates of 59.1%, 27.8% and 13.9%, respectively. In the multivariate logistic regression model, subjective unhappiness was most strongly associated with stress in subjects with AD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 7.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.87–9.18), while depression (aOR, 9.83; 95% CI, 7.85–11.32) and suicidal ideation (aOR, 5.70; 95% CI, 5.01–6.48) were reciprocally the most important risk factors in adolescents with AD. AD in adolescents is associated with a higher prevalence of stress, depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. It is important for pediatricians to watch for these risks and to screen for suicidality in adolescents with AD.
Partial pathogenicity chromosomes in Fusarium oxysporum are sufficient to cause disease and can be horizontally transferred
Authors: Li Jiming , Fokkens Like , Conneely Lee James , Rep Martijn
Published: May 2020

In Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, all effector genes reported so far – also called SIX genes – are located on a single accessory chromosome which is required for pathogenicity and can also be horizontally transferred to another strain. To narrow down the minimal region required for virulence, we selected partial pathogenicity chromosome deletion strains by fluorescence‐assisted cell sorting of a strain in which the two arms of the pathogenicity chromosome were labelled with GFP and RFP respectively. By testing the virulence of these deletion mutants, we show that the complete long arm and part of the short arm of the pathogenicity chromosome are not required for virulence. In addition, we demonstrate that smaller versions of the pathogenicity chromosome can also be transferred to a non‐pathogenic strain and they are sufficient to turn the non‐pathogen into a pathogen. Surprisingly, originally non‐pathogenic strains that had received a smaller version of the pathogenicity chromosome were much more aggressive than recipients with a complete pathogenicity chromosome. Whole genome sequencing analysis revealed that partial deletions of the pathogenicity chromosome occurred mainly close to repeats, and that spontaneous duplication of sequences in accessory regions is frequent both in chromosome deletion strains and in horizontal transfer strains.
Dealing with water stress and microbial preservation
Authors: Manzanera Maximino
Published: May 2020

The relevance of preserving microorganisms has been well accepted for several decades. Interest is now shifting towards investigating adequate preservation methods to improve microbial survival rates and to preserve new taxa of previously considered unculturable microorganisms. In addition, a growing interest in preserving fragile microbial consortia or communities with biotechnological interest motivates the improvement of preservation methods. In the present study, we reviewed the effect of water availability in microbial diversity shift. We describe the effect of drought on microorganisms at the molecular level and their molecular responses to this life‐threatening challenge focusing on the production of xeroprotectants. We also review the interspecies interactions of those drought‐tolerant microorganisms with other sensitive organisms including neighbouring prokaryotes and eukaryotes such as plants, and the potential role of these microorganisms at determining the ecological composition of stressed environments. We emphasize the importance of applying the knowledge derived from the molecular mechanisms used by desiccation‐tolerant microorganisms for the improvement of the preservation techniques. An overview of the current and newer techniques for preserving microorganisms and microbial communities is provided. The biotechnological interest in preserving pure cultures, microbial consortia and communities is also discussed.
Longitudinal study of prevalence and spatio‐temporal distribution of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in ticks from three defined habitats in Latvia, 1999–2010
Authors: Okeyo Mercy , Hepner Sabrina , Rollins Robert E. , Hartberger Christina , Straubinger Reinhard K. , Marosevic Durdica , Bannister Stephanie A. , Bormane Antra , Donaghy Michael , Sing Andreas , Fingerle Volker , Margos Gabriele
Published: May 2020

Members of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) species complex are known to cause human Lyme borreliosis. Because of longevity of some reservoir hosts and the Ixodes tick vectors' life cycle, long‐term studies are required to better understand species and population dynamics of these bacteria in their natural habitats. Ticks were collected between 1999 and 2010 in three ecologically different habitats in Latvia. We used multilocus sequence typing utilizing eight chromosomally located housekeeping genes to obtain information about species and population fluctuations and/or stability of B. burgdorferi s.l. in these habitats. The average prevalence over all years was 18.9%. From initial high‐infection prevalences of 25.5%, 33.1% and 31.8%, from 2002 onwards the infection rates steadily decreased to 7.3%. Borrelia afzelii and Borrelia garinii were the most commonly found genospecies but striking local differences were obvious. In one habitat, a significant shift from rodent‐associated to bird‐associated Borrelia species was noted whilst in the other habitats, Borrelia species composition was relatively stable over time. Sequence types (STs) showed a random spatial and temporal distribution. These results demonstrated that there are temporal regional changes and extrapolations from one habitat to the next are not possible.
Northern Ireland Dimensions to the First Decade of the United Kingdom Supreme Court
Authors: Dickson Brice , McCormick Conor
Published: May 2020

This article focuses on the relationship between the United Kingdom Supreme Court and Northern Ireland over the course of a constitutionally significant period of time, namely the first decade of the Court's existence. It does this by exploring what difference the Court has made to the law of Northern Ireland, what significance the cases from Northern Ireland have had for the law in other parts of the United Kingdom, and what part has been played in the Court's work by the sole Justice from Northern Ireland, Lord Kerr of Tonaghmore, and by the Attorney General for Northern Ireland, John Larkin QC. It concludes that the Court has established itself as an indispensable component of the legal system of Northern Ireland.
Feline chimerism revealed by DNA profiling
Authors: Jaraud Ambre , Bossé Philippe , Dufaure de Citres Caroline , Tiret Laurent , Gache Vincent , Abitbol Marie
Published: May 2020

In dogs and cats, unusual coat colour phenotypes may result from various phenomena, including chimerism. In the domestic cat, the tortoiseshell coat colour that combines red and non‐red hairs is the most obvious way to identify chimeras in males. Several cases of tortoiseshell males have been reported, some of which were diagnosed as chimeras without any molecular confirmation. Here, we report the case of a female feline chimera identified thanks to its coat colour and confirmed through DNA profiling and a coat colour test. We ruled out the hypothesis of mosaicism and aneuploidy. All the data were consistent with a natural case of female chimerism.
I Get By with a Little Help from My Friends: Leveraging Campaign Resources to Maximize Congressional Power
Authors: Box‐Steffensmeier Janet M. , Campbell Benjamin W. , Podob Andrew W. , Walker Seth J.
Published: May 2020

Central to the study of Congress is the study of relationships among members. Electoral collaboration is a function of a member's position in the broader congressional power network. It allows members to leverage their campaign resources to achieve the four classic goals of members of Congress: reelection, making good public policy, obtaining power within the institution, and having one's party in the majority. Using nearly 3.2 million FEC records from 2010 to 2016, we explore the dynamics that influence electoral collaboration. We find members are most likely to collaborate electorally with other members from the same state, party, and committee, and the most electorally vulnerable. Further, party leaders share most frequently with the rank and file. These findings build upon our expanding understanding of congressional collaboration, the networks members of Congress form, and the congressional power structure members operate within.
Caution in the management of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in males
Authors: De Toni Luca , Garolla Andrea , Di Nisio Andrea , Rocca Maria Santa , Foresta Carlo
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic carries clinical, economic, and social burdens that are currently being disclosed. The key steps of virus life cycle have been recently clarified, highlighting the role of host type 2 angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE2) and TMPRSS2 serine protease in virus‐cell binding and entry, respectively. Importantly, major concerns derive from the androgen‐dependent tissue‐expression of both TMPRSS2 and ACE2, suggesting a differential clinical course of the infection between genders. In agreement with this model, available epidemiological data show that the disease in males has an higher risk to display an heavier pattern and associates with both an increased access to critical care unit and higher mortality rate. In this opinion article, available evidence linking the androgen activity with the gender differences observed in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are discussed, hypothesizing possible therapeutic approaches in male based on the disruption of androgen signaling. On these bases, gender‐specific recommendations for the management of male patients affected by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are warmly suggested, in order to improve the clinical course of the disease.
Impact of hospital geographic remoteness on short‐term outcomes after colorectal cancer resection using state‐wide administrative data
Authors: Udayasiri Dilshan K. , MacCallum Caroline , Silva Nigel Da , Skandarajah Anita , Hayes Ian P.
Published: May 2020

Background

This study aimed to use validated coding algorithms, applied to a central repository of administrative data (AD), to report on short‐term outcomes following resection for colorectal cancer (CRC) comparing regional to metropolitan Victorian hospitals.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study using prospectively gathered AD. The primary outcome was prolonged length of stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes were: inpatient mortality, return to theatre, discharge destination and need for mechanical ventilation/intensive care unit support. Outcomes were adjusted for potential confounders via multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

This study of 18 470 patients found strong evidence for lower odds of prolonged LOS (odds ratio (OR) 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.58, P ≤ 0.001) and inpatient mortality (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.49–0.91, P = 0.01) in inner regional hospital compared with metropolitan hospitals. For outer regional hospitals, there was strong evidence of decreased odds of prolonged LOS (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.52–0.77, P = <0.001) and return to theatre (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.47–0.95, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

This is the largest and most detailed study concerning short‐term outcomes following CRC resection in Victorian public hospitals. Inner and outer regional centres had similar or better short‐term outcomes than metropolitan hospitals after CRC resection. AD with validated algorithms serves as a large accurate database to report on CRC outcomes.
Extremely low risk of hepatocellular carcinoma development in patients with chronic hepatitis B in immune‐tolerant phase
Authors: Lee Han Ah , Lee Hyun Woong , Kim In Hee , Park Soo Young , Sinn Dong Hyun , Yu Jung Hwan , Seo Yeon Seok , Um Soon Ho , Lee Jung Il , Lee Kwan Sik , Lee Chang Hun , Tak Won Young , Kweon Young Oh , Kang Wonseok , Paik Yong‐Han , Lee Jin‐Woo , Suh Sang Jun , Jung Young Kul , Kim Beom Kyung , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Yim Hyung Joon , Kim Seung Up
Published: May 2020

Background

Anti‐viral therapy is not indicated for patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in the immune‐tolerant phase.

Aims

To investigate the cumulative incidence of phase change and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and independent predictors for phase change in patients with CHB in immune‐tolerant phase.

Methods

In total, 946 patients in immune‐tolerant phase, defined as hepatitis B e antigen positivity, HBV‐DNA >20 000 IU/mL and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≤40 IU/L, between 1989 and 2017 were enrolled from eight institutes.

Results

The mean age of study population (429 men and 517 women) was 36.7 years. The mean ALT and HBV‐DNA levels were 24.6 IU/L and 8.50 log10 IU/mL, respectively. Of the study population, 476 (50.3%) patients remained in immune‐tolerant phase throughout the study period (median: 63.6 months). The cumulative incidence rates of phase change and HCC at 10 years were 70.7% and 1.7%, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that HBV‐DNA level >107 IU/mL was associated independently with a reduced risk of phase change (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.734, P = 0.008), whereas a high ALT level, above the cut‐off recommended in the Korean Association for the Study of the Liver guidelines (34 IU/L for men and 30 IU/L for women), was associated independently with a greater risk of phase change (HR = 1.885, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The criterion of HBV‐DNA level > 107 IU/mL may be useful to define immune‐tolerant phase. In addition, an extremely low risk of HCC development was observed in patients with CHB in immune‐tolerant phase.