bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic treatment with hydroxychloroquine and SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Ferreira A , Oliveira-e-Silva A , Bettencourt P
Published: June 2020

Background

Hydroxychloroquine sulphate (HCQ) is being scrutinized for repositioning in the treatment and prevention of SARS-Cov-2 infection. This antimalarial drug is also chronically used to treat patients with autoimmune diseases.

Methods

By analyzing the Portuguese anonymized data on private and public based medical prescriptions we have identified all cases chronically receiving HCQ for the management of diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases. Additionally, we have detected all laboratory confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection and all laboratory confirmed negative cases in the Portuguese population (mandatorily registered in a centrally managed database). Cross linking the two sets of data has allowed us to compare the proportion of HCQ chronic treatment (at least 2 grams per month) in laboratory confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection with laboratory confirmed negative cases.

Results

Out of 26,815 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, 77 (0.29%) were chronically treated with HCQ, while 1,215 (0.36%) out of 333,489 negative patients were receiving it chronically (P=0.04). After adjustment for age, sex, and chronic treatment with corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressants, the odds ratio of SARS-CoV-2 infection for chronic treatment with HCQ has been 0.51 (0.37-0.70).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that chronic treatment with HCQ confer protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Phenotyping genetic differences in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 after an alcohol challenge in humans
Authors: White Joseph R. , Rwere Freeborn , Zeng Xiaocong , McNeil Leslie , Zhou Kevin , Angst Martin S. , Chen Che-Hong , Mochly-Rosen Daria , Gross Eric R.
Published: June 2020

Inefficient aldehyde metabolism by an aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) genetic variant, ALDH2*2 (rs671), increases the risk of esophageal cancer with alcohol consumption. Here we tested the hypothesis that additional genetic differences in ALDH2 besides ALDH2*2 exist resulting in inefficient acetaldehyde metabolism after alcohol consumption.

Human volunteers were recruited who self-reported flushing after alcohol. The first stage recruited East Asians and the second stage non-East Asians. After phone screening and ALDH2 sequencing, volunteers were subjected to an alcohol challenge (0.25g/kg). Physiological parameters and breath acetaldehyde levels were assessed.

Twenty-six participants were given an alcohol challenge. In the first stage, when comparing the ALDH2*1/*2 genotype to ALDH2*1/*1 genotype, tachycardia (104±3* versus 73±4 beats per minute), increases in facial skin temperature (99.6±0.4* versus 95.9±0.50F), and increases in breath acetaldehyde (peak: 2.1±0.4* versus 0.2±0.3ppm, n=8/group, *p<0.01) occurred after alcohol consumption. In the second stage, heterozygotes for an ALDH2 intron variant (rs4646777, G>A) caused increases in facial skin temperature (98±1* versus 94±10F, n=4, *p<0.01) without tachycardia or acetaldehyde accumulation after alcohol consumption. Subjects self-identifying as non-East Asian genotyped with an ALDH2*1/*2 variant also displayed a characteristic ALDH2*1/*2 phenotype after alcohol consumption. Further, ALDH2 point mutations rs747096195 (R101G) and rs190764869 (R114W) showed reduced acetaldehyde metabolism and increases in facial skin temperature after an alcohol challenge relative to wild type ALDH2 subjects.

Taken together, we developed a method to non-invasively phenotype genetic differences for ALDH2 in humans including quantifying aldehyde metabolism in single subjects. We also discovered genetic differences besides ALDH2*2 that cause inefficient aldehyde metabolism.

Brief Summary

We developed a method to phenotype genetic differences in ALDH2 and we discovered novel ALDH2 mutations that result in inefficient acetaldehyde metabolism after alcohol consumption.
Idiopathic and acquired pedophilia as two distinct disorders: an insight from neuroimaging
Authors: Scarpazza Cristina , Finos Livio , Genon Sarah , Masiero Laura , Bortolato Elena , Cavaliere Camilla , Pezzaioli Jessica , Monaro Merylin , Navarin Nicolò , Umberto Battaglia , Pietrini Pietro , Ferracuti Stefano , Sartori Giuseppe , Ciani Andrea S. Camperio
Published: June 2020

Objective

Pedophilia is a disorder of public concern because of its association with child sexual offense and recidivism. Previous neuroimaging studies identified inconsistent brain abnormalities underlying pedophilic behavior both in idiopathic and acquired (i.e., emerging following brain damage) pedophilia. This study sought to explore the neural underpinnings of pedophilic behavior and to determine the extent to which brain alterations may be related to distinct psychopathological features in pedophilia.

Methods

A coordinate based meta-analysis on previously published papers reporting whole brain analysis and a lesion network analysis using brain lesions as seeds in a resting state connectivity analysis were run to investigate the presence of consistent neural basis of idiopathic and acquired pedophilic behavior, respectively. The behavioral profiling approach was applied to link identified regions with corresponding psychological processes.

Results

While no consistent neuroanatomical alterations have been identified in idiopathic pedophilia, the current results support that all the lesions causing acquired pedophilia localized to a shared resting state network including posterior midlines structures, right inferior temporal gyrus and bilateral orbitofrontal cortex. These regions are associated with action inhibition and social cognition, abilities that are consistently described as severely impaired in acquired pedophiles.

Conclusions

This study suggests that idiopathic and acquired pedophilia may be two distinct disorders, in line with their distinctive clinical features, including age of onset, reversibility and modus operandi. Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of pedophilic behavior may contribute to a more comprehensive characterization of these individuals on a clinical ground and to develop more efficient therapeutic rehabilitation strategies.
From predictions to prescriptions: A data-driven response to COVID-19
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Boussioux Leonard , Cory-Wright Ryan , Delarue Arthur , Digalakis Vasileios , Jacquillat Alexandre , Kitane Driss Lahlou , Lukin Galit , Li Michael , Mingardi Luca , Nohadani Omid , Orfanoudaki Agni , Papalexopoulos Theodore , Paskov Ivan , Pauphilet Jean , Lami Omar Skali , Stellato Bartolomeo , Bouardi Hamza Tazi , Carballo Kimberly Villalobos , Wiberg Holly , Zeng Cynthia
Published: June 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges worldwide. Strained healthcare providers make difficult decisions on patient triage, treatment and care management on a daily basis. Policy makers have imposed social distancing measures to slow the disease, at a steep economic price. We design analytical tools to support these decisions and combat the pandemic. Specifically, we propose a comprehensive data-driven approach to understand the clinical characteristics of COVID-19, predict its mortality, forecast its evolution, and ultimately alleviate its impact. By leveraging cohort-level clinical data, patient-level hospital data, and census-level epidemiological data, we develop an integrated four-step approach, combining descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics. First, we aggregate hundreds of clinical studies into the most comprehensive database on COVID-19 to paint a new macroscopic picture of the disease. Second, we build personalized calculators to predict the risk of infection and mortality as a function of demographics, symptoms, comorbidities, and lab values. Third, we develop a novel epidemiological model to project the pandemic’s spread and inform social distancing policies. Fourth, we propose an optimization model to reallocate ventilators and alleviate shortages. Our results have been used at the clinical level by several hospitals to triage patients, guide care management, plan ICU capacity, and re-distribute ventilators. At the policy level, they are currently supporting safe back-to-work policies at a major institution and equitable vaccine distribution planning at a major pharmaceutical company, and have been integrated into the US Center for Disease Control’s pandemic forecast.

Significance Statement

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers and policy makers are wrestling with unprecedented challenges. How to treat COVID-19 patients with equipment shortages? How to allocate resources to combat the disease? How to plan for the next stages of the pandemic? We present a data-driven approach to tackle these challenges. We gather comprehensive data from various sources, including clinical studies, electronic medical records, and census reports. We develop algorithms to understand the disease, predict its mortality, forecast its spread, inform social distancing policies, and re-distribute critical equipment. These algorithms provide decision support tools that have been deployed on our publicly available website, and are actively used by hospitals, companies, and policy makers around the globe.
A Small Molecule Fluorogenic Probe for the Detection of Sphingosine in Living Cells
Authors: Rudd Andrew K. , Mittal Neel , Lim Esther W. , Metallo Christian M. , Devaraj Neal K.
Published: June 2020

The single-chained sphingolipid sphingosine is an essential structural lipid and signaling molecule. Abnormal sphingosine metabolism is observed in several diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. Despite its biological importance, there are a lack of tools for detecting sphingosine in living cells. This is likely due to the broader challenge of developing highly selective and live-cell compatible affinity probes for hydrophobic lipid species. In this work, we have developed a small molecule fluorescent turn-on probe for labeling sphingosine in living cells. This probe utilizes a selective reaction between sphingosine and salicylaldehyde esters to fluorescently label sphingosine molecules. We demonstrate that this probe exhibits a dose-dependent response to sphingosine and is able to detect endogenous pools of sphingosine. Using our probe, we successfully detected sphingosine accumulation in live Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1) patient cells, a lipid transport disorder in which increased sphingosine mediates disease progression. This work provides a simple and accessible method for the detection of sphingosine and should facilitate study of this critical signaling lipid in biology and disease.
The Atlas of the In Vivo HIV CD4 T Cell Reservoir
Authors: Neidleman Jason , Luo Xiaoyu , Frouard Julie , Xie Guorui , Hsiao Feng , Ma Tongcui , Morcilla Vincent , Lee Ashley , Telwatte Sushama , Thomas Reuben , Tamaki Whitney , Wheeler Benjamin , Hoh Rebecca , Somsouk Ma , Vohra Poonam , Milush Jeffrey , James Katherine Sholtis , Archin Nancie M. , Hunt Peter W. , Deeks Steven G. , Yukl Steven A. , Palmer Sarah , Greene Warner C. , Roan Nadia R.
Published: June 2020

The latent reservoir is a main barrier for curing HIV. But because latently-infected cells cannot be phenotyped directly, the features of the in vivo reservoir have remained elusive. Here, we describe a method that leverages high-dimensional phenotyping using CyTOF to trace latently-infected cells reactivated ex vivo to their original pre-activation states. Our results suggest that contrary to common assumptions, the reservoir is not randomly distributed among cell subsets, and is remarkably conserved between individuals. However, reservoir composition differs between tissues and blood, as do cells successfully reactivated by different latency reversing agents. Most importantly, by selecting 8-10 of our 39 original CyTOF markers, we were able to isolate highly purified populations of unstimulated in vivo latent cells, thereby validating the PP-SLIDE approach for reservoir characterization. These purified populations were highly enriched for replication-competent and intact provirus, transcribed HIV, and displayed clonal expansion. The ability to isolate unstimulated latent cells from infected individuals enables previously impossible studies of HIV persistence.
THE EXPERIENCE OF UK BLADDER CANCER PATIENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A SURVEY-BASED SNAPSHOT
Authors: Spencer-Bowdage Sarah , Rigby Jeannie , O’Kelly Jackie , Kelly Phil , Page Mark , Raw Caroline , Allchorne Paula , Harper Peter , Crew Jeremy , Kockelbergh Roger , Knight Allen , Bryan Richard T
Published: June 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic has placed unprecedented strain on healthcare systems worldwide. Within this context, UK cancer services have undergone significant disruption to create capacity for the National Health Service. As a charity that endeavours to support bladder cancer (BC) patients and improve outcomes, Action Bladder Cancer UK (ABCUK) designed and administered a SurveyMonkey survey to investigate the prevalence of such disruption for BC patients. From 22nd April to 18th June 2020, 142 BC patients responded. Across all patient groups, 46.8% of patients described disruption to their treatment or follow-up. For non-muscle-invasive BC (NMIBC) patients, disruptions included postponement of: initial transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) (33.3%), subsequent TURBT (40.0%), and surveillance cystoscopy (58.1%). For NMIBC patients undergoing intravesical therapy, 68.4% experienced treatment postponements or curtailments. For muscle-invasive BC patients, 57.1% had experienced postponement of cystectomy and 14.3% had been changed from cystectomy to radiotherapy. Half of patients undergoing systemic chemotherapy also experienced disruption. Despite the survey’s limitations, we have demonstrated considerable disruption to the care of BC patients during the UK Covid-19 pandemic. To avoid a repeat, the UK BC community should define effective contingent ways of working ready for a possible ‘second wave’ of Covid-19, or any other such threat.
A Modelling Study for Designing a Multi-layered Surveillance Approach to Detect the Potential Resurgence of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Liu Yang , Gong Wenfeng , Clifford Samuel , Sundaram Maria E. ,   CMMID-COVID19 Working Group, Jit Mark , Flasche Stefan , Klepac Petra
Published: June 2020

Background

Countries achieving control of COVID-19 after an initial outbreak will continue to face the risk of SARS-CoV-2 resurgence. This study explores surveillance strategies for COVID-19 containment based on polymerase chain reaction tests.

Methods

Using a dynamic SEIR-type model to simulate the initial dynamics of a COVID-19 introduction, we investigate COVID-19 surveillance strategies among healthcare workers, hospital patients, and community members. We estimate surveillance sensitivity as the probability of COVID-19 detection using a hypergeometric sampling process. We identify test allocation strategies that maximise the probability of COVID-19 detection across different testing capacities. We use Beijing, China as a case study.

Findings

Surveillance subgroups are more sensitive in detecting COVID-19 transmission when they are defined by more COVID-19 specific symptoms. In this study, fever clinics have the highest surveillance sensitivity, followed by respiratory departments. With a daily testing rate of 0.07/1000 residents, via exclusively testing at fever clinic and respiratory departments, there would have been 598 [95% eCI: 35, 2154] and 1373 [95% eCI: 47, 5230] cases in the population by the time of first case detection, respectively. Outbreak detection can occur earlier by including non-syndromic subgroups, such as younger adults in the community, as more testing capacity becomes available.

Interpretation

A multi-layer approach that considers both the surveillance sensitivity and administrative constraints can help identify the optimal allocation of testing resources and thus inform COVID-19 surveillance strategies.

Funding

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, National Institute of Health Research (UK), National Institute of Health (US), the Royal Society, and Wellcome Trust.
Cancer inpatient with COVID-19: a report from the Brazilian National Cancer Institute
Authors: de Melo Andreia C. , Thuler Luiz C.S. , Silva Jesse L. da , de Albuquerque Lucas Z. , Pecego Ana C. , Rodrigues Luciana de O.R. , da Conceição Magda S. , Garrido Marianne M. , Quintella Mendes Gelcio L. , Mendes Pereira Ana Cristina P. , Soares Marcelo A. , Viola João P.B.
Published: June 2020

Brazil has been recording a frightening exponential curve of confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cancer patients with COVID-19 are likely to have a greater risk of complications and death. A retrospective search in the electronic medical records of cancer inpatients admitted to the Brazilian National Cancer Institute from April 30, 2020 to May 26, 2020 granted identification of 181 patients with COVID-19 confirmed by RT-PCR method. The mean age was 55.3 years (SD ±21.1). The most prevalent solid tumors were breast (40 [22.1%]), gastrointestinal (24 [13.3%]), and gynecological (22 [12.2%]). Among hematological malignancies, lymphoma (20 [11%]) and leukemia (10 [5.5%]) predominated. The most common complications were respiratory failure (70 [38.7%]), septic shock (40 [22.1%]) and acute kidney injury (33 [18.2%]). A total of 60 (33.1%) patients died due to COVID-19 complications. By multivariate analysis, cases with admission due to symptoms of COVID-19 (p = 0.027) and with two or more metastatic sites (p <0.001) showed a higher risk of COVID-19-specific death. This is the first study in a cohort of Brazilian cancer patients with COVID-19. The rates of complications and COVID-19-specific death were significantly high. Our data prompts urgent and effective public policies for this group of especially vulnerable patients.

Statement of Significance

COVID-19-specific mortality in cancer inpatients is markedly higher than in the general population and the cases with advanced cancer are particularly in a more vulnerable group. Adaptations of cancer management guidelines and more intensive preventive measures should be a priority for this group of patients.
Health care seeking behaviour and financial protection of patients with hypertension: a cross-sectional study in rural West Bengal, India
Authors: Chakraborty Sandipta , Rai Rajesh Kumar , Biswas Asit Kumar , Barik Anamitra , Gurung Preeti , Praveen Devarsetty
Published: June 2020

Background

Elevated blood pressure or hypertension is responsible for around 10 million annual deaths globally, and people residing in low and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by it. India is no exception, where low rate of treatment seeking for hypertension coupled with widespread out-of-pocket payments (OOPs) have been a challenge. This study assessed the pattern of health care seeking and financial protection along with the associated factors among hypertensive individuals in a rural district of West Bengal, India.

Method and findings

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Birbhum district of the state of West Bengal, India during 2017-2018, where 300 individuals with hypertension were recruited randomly from a pre-defined list of individuals with hypertension in the district. Healthcare seeking along with two instance of financial protection –OOPs and relative expense, were analysed. Findings indicated that, of all hypertensives, 47% were not on treatment, 80% preferred private healthcare, and 91% of them had wide-spread OOPs. Cost of medication being a major share of expenses followed by significant transport cost to access public health care facility. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated longer duration of disease and private health care seeking were associated with more incident of OOPs. Results from linear regression modelling (generalized linear model) demonstrated association of co-morbidities with higher relative expenditure. Individuals belonging to poor economic group suffered from a high relative expense, compared to the richest.

Conclusion

This study suggested that individuals with hypertension had poor health care seeking, preferred private health care and had suboptimal financial protection. Hypertensives from economically poorer section had higher burden of health expenditure for treatment of hypertension, which indicated gaps in equitable health care for the control of hypertension.
Beta regression with spatio-temporal effects as a tool for hospital impact analysis of initial phase epidemics: the case of COVID-19 in Spain
Authors: Jannes Gil , Barreal Jesús
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 has put an extraordinary strain on medical staff around the world, but also on hospital facilities and the global capacity of national healthcare systems. In this paper, Beta regression is introduced as a tool to analyze the rate of hospitalization and the proportion of Intensive Care Unit admissions over both hospitalized and diagnosed patients, with the aim of explaining as well as predicting, and thus allowing to better anticipate, the impact on hospital resources during an early-phase epidemic. This is applied to the initial phase COVID-19 pandemic in Spain and its different regions from 20-Feb to 08-Apr of 2020. Spatial and temporal factors are included in the Beta distribution through a precision factor. The model reveals the importance of the lagged data of hospital occupation, as well as the rate of recovered patients. Excellent agreement is found for next-day predictions, while even for multiple-day predictions (up to 12 days), robust results are obtained in most cases in spite of the limited reliability and consistency of the data.
Nf2 fine-tunes proliferation and tissue alignment during closure of the optic fissure in the embryonic mouse eye
Authors: Sun Wesley R. , Ramirez Sara , Spiller Kelly E. , Zhao Yan , Fuhrmann Sabine
Published: June 2020

Uveal coloboma represents one of the most common congenital ocular malformations accounting for up to 10% of childhood blindness (1~ in 5,000 live birth). Coloboma originates from defective fusion of the optic fissure (OF), a transient gap that forms during eye morphogenesis by asymmetric, ventral invagination. Genetic heterogeneity combined with the activity of developmentally regulated genes suggest multiple mechanisms regulating OF closure. The tumor suppressor and FERM domain protein neurofibromin 2 (NF2) controls diverse processes in cancer, development and regeneration, via Hippo pathway and cytoskeleton regulation. In humans,NF2mutations can cause ocular abnormalities, including coloboma, however, its actual role in OF closure is unknown. Using conditional inactivation in the embryonic mouse eye, our data indicates that loss ofNf2function results in a novel underlying cause for coloboma. In particular, mutant eyes show substantially increased RPE proliferation in the fissure region with concomitant acquisition of RPE cell fate. Cells lining the OF margin can maintain RPE fate ectopically and fail to transition from neuroepithelial to cuboidal shape. In the dorsal RPE of the optic cup,Nf2inactivation leads to a robust increase in cell number, with local disorganization of the cytoskeleton components F-actin and pMLC2. We propose that RPE hyperproliferation is the primary cause for the observed defects causing insufficient alignment of the OF margins inNf2mutants and failure to fuse properly, resulting in persistent coloboma. Our findings indicate that limiting proliferation particularly in the RPE layer is a critical mechanism during optic fissure closure.
Monocyte CD169 expression as a biomarker in the early diagnosis of COVID-19
Authors: Bedin Anne-Sophie , Makinson Alain , Picot Marie-Christine , Mennechet Frank , Malergue Fabrice , Pisoni Amandine , Nyiramigisha Esperance , Montagnier Lise , Bollore Karine , Debiesse Ségolène , Morquin David , Bourgoin Penelope , Veyrenche Nicolas , Renault Constance , Foulongne Vincent , Bret Caroline , Bourdin Arnaud , Le Moing Vincent , Van de Perre Philippe , Tuaillon Edouard
Published: June 2020

We assessed the expression of the cell adhesion molecule Sialoadhesin (CD169), a type I interferon-inducible receptor, on monocytes (mCD169) in 53 adult patients admitted to the hospital during the COVID-19 outbreak for a suspicion of SARS-CoV-2 infection. mCD169 was strongly overexpressed in 30 out of 32 (93.7%) confirmed COVID-19 cases, compared to three out of 21 (14.3%) patients for whom the diagnosis of COVID-19 was finally ruled out. mCD169 was associated with the plasma interferon alpha level and thrombocytopenia. mCD169 testing may be helpful for the rapid triage of suspected COVID-19 patients during an outbreak.
Basal epidermis collective migration and local Sonic hedgehog signaling promote skeletal branching morphogenesis in zebrafish fins
Authors: Braunstein Joshua A. , Robbins Amy E. , Stewart Scott , Stankunas Kryn
Published: June 2020

Teleost fish fins, like all vertebrate limbs, comprise a series of bones laid out in characteristic pattern. Each fin’s distal bony rays typically branch to elaborate skeletal networks providing form and function. Zebrafish caudal fin regeneration studies suggest basal epidermal-expressed Sonic hedgehog (Shh) promotes ray branching by partitioning pools of adjacent pre-osteoblasts. This Shh role is distinct from its famous Zone of Polarizing Activity role establishing paired limb positional information. Therefore, we investigated if and how Shh signaling similarly functions during developmental ray branching of both paired and unpaired fins while resolving cellular dynamics of branching by live imaging. We foundshhais expressed uniquely by basal epidermal cells overlying pre-osteoblast pools at the distal aspect of outgrowing juvenile fins. Lateral splitting of eachshha-expressing epidermal domain followed by the pre-osteoblast pools precedes overt ray branching. We useptch2:Kaedefish and Kaede photoconversion to identify short stretches ofshha+ basal epidermis and juxtaposed pre-osteoblasts as the Shh/Smoothened (Smo) active zone. Basal epidermal distal collective movements continuously replenish eachshha+ domain with individual cells transiently expressing and responding to Shh. In contrast, pre-osteoblasts maintain Shh/Smo activity until differentiating. Smo inhibition using the small molecule BMS-833923 prevents branching in all fins, paired and unpaired, with surprisingly minimal effects on caudal fin initial skeletal patterning, ray outgrowth or bone differentiation. Staggered BMS-833923 addition indicates Shh/Smo signaling acts throughout the branching process. We use live cell tracking to find Shh/Smo restrains the distal movement of basal epidermal cells by apparent ‘tethering’ to pre-osteoblasts. We propose short-range Shh/Smo signaling promotes these heterotypic associations to couple instructive basal epidermal collective movements to pre-osteoblast repositioning as a unique mode of branching morphogenesis.
Early Hemoglobin kinetics in response to ribavirin: Safety lesson learned from Hepatitis C to CoVID-19 therapy
Authors: Rivero-Juarez Antonio , Frias Mario , Machuca Isabel , Gallo Marina , Lopez-Lopez Pedro , Camacho Angela , Rivero Antonio
Published: June 2020

Background

Ribavirin (RBV) is been used for SARS-CoV-2 infection. This drug is associated with a wide range of side effects, mainly anemia, so its use in patients with potential respiratory affectation could not be appropriate. The evidences of adverse events associated with RBV-use has mainly been derived in the context of hepatitis C (HCV) treatment, however the possible use of RBV in CoVID-19 patients could be limited to 14 days.

Methods

Longitudinal study including HIV/HCV coinfected patients. We evaluate the hemoglobin dynamics and reductions as well as evaluate the development rate of anemia during the first 2 weeks of therapy in HCV infected patients.

Results

189 patients were included in the study. The median hemoglobin levels were 14.6 g/dL (IQR: 13.2-15.6 g/dL) and 13.5 g/dL (IQR: 12.3-14.5 g/dL) at weeks 1 and 2 of therapy, respectively. A cumulative number of 27 (14.2%) patients developed anemia (23 grade 1 [12.1%] and 4 grade 2 [2.1%]). We identify a baseline hemoglobin levels of 14 g/dL as the better cut-off to identify those patients with a high chance to develop anemia. Of the 132 patients with baseline hemoglobin level >14 g/dL, 8 developed anemia (6.1%) compared with 19 of 57 (33.3%) with hemoglobin levels lower than 14 g/dL (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study shows valuable information about the early hemoglobin kinetic timing in patients on RBV-therapy, that could be useful to tailor CoVID-19 treatment if RBV use is considered.
Group testing: revisiting the ideas
Authors: Skorniakov Viktor , Leipus Remigijus , Juzeliūnas Gediminas , Staliūnas Kęstutis
Published: June 2020

The task of identification of randomly scattered ‘bad’ items in a fixed set of objects is a frequent one, and there are many ways to deal with it. ‘Group testing’ (GT) refers to the testing strategy aiming to effectively replace the inspection of single objects by the inspection of groups spanning more than one object. First announced by Dorfman in 1943, the methodology has underwent vigorous development, and though many related research still takes place, the ground ideas remain the same. In the present paper, we revisit two classical GT algorithms: the Dorfman’s algorithm and the halving algorithm. Our fresh treatment of the latter and expository comparison of the two is devoted to dissemination of GT ideas which are so important in the current COVID-19 induced pandemic situation.
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in the municipality of São Paulo, Brazil, ten weeks after the first reported case
Authors: Tess Beatriz H. , Granato Celso F. H. , Porto Alves Maria Cecília Goi , Pintao Maria Carolina , Rizzatti Edgar , Nunes Marcia C. , Reinach Fernando C.
Published: June 2020

A population-based household survey was performed to estimate the prevalence of IgM and IgG to SARS-CoV-2 in residents of six districts in São Paulo City, Brazil. Serum samples collected from 299 randomly-selected adults and 218 cohabitants (N=517) were tested by chemiluminescence immunoassay ten weeks after the first reported case. Weighted overall seroprevalence was 4.7% (95% CI 3.0-6.6%). The low seroprevalence suggests that most of this population could still be infected. Serial serosurveys were initiated aiming to monitor the progress of the ongoing pandemic throughout the entire city. This may help inform public health authority decisions regarding prevention and control strategies.
Synthesis, structure and magnetism of a new ionic pentanuclear iron cluster
Authors: Deng Qianjun , Wang Jiming , Li Guangzhao , Zhang Shuhua
Published: June 2020

A new ionic pentanuclear FeIII cluster, namely, triethylazanium tetrakis(μ2-5-amino-1,2,3,4-tetrazolido)tetrakis(μ3-4-chloro-2-{[(1H-tetrazol-1-id-5-yl)imino]methyl}phenolato)di-μ3-oxido-pentairon(III) acetonitrile monosolvate monohydrate, (C6H16N)[Fe5(C8H4ClN5O)4(CH2N5)4O2]·CH3CN·H2O, was synthesized using microvial synthesis methods and characterized by elemental analysis, FT–IR spectroscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. Magnetic studies reveal that the complex displays dominant antiferromagnetic intracluster interactions between the FeIII ions through the μ3-oxide bridges.
Managerial perceptions of the strategic relevance of resources and capabilities and its configuration for firm competitiveness: an exploratory study
Authors: Bayon Manoj , Aguilera Pablo
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Highlighting the important role of managerial action in resource orchestration, the purpose of this paper is to explore how differences in managerial perceptions about the strategic relevance of resources and capabilities influences the resource configurations in SMEs from an emerging economy context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey-based instrument that was developed by the Global Competitive project (www.gcp.org), the authors identify 62 Mexican SMEs and perform a cluster analysis based on firm size and age and estimate the competitiveness of the SMEs in each cluster.

Findings

The results of our cluster analysis indeed suggest the existence of four configurations of SMEs based on the managerial perceptions of the value creating potential of the different resources and capabilities at the firms' disposal. The authors find evidence that managerial perception of the strategic relevance of resources and capabilities at a firm's disposal could influence firm-level competitiveness. Managers of firms that perceive high value or importance to the resources and capabilities, considered the ten resource pillars for competitiveness in this study, are also likely to be the most competitive.

Research limitations/implications

This study is exploratory in nature and intends to provide an initial and more descriptive analysis of SME competitiveness in an emerging economy context. Additionality, the study does not take into account the effect of industry membership.

Originality/value

The choice of an emerging economy that are often characterized by asymmetric information and informal rules and regulations provides an original context for an understudied area of research in firm-level competitiveness.
The social progress on the development of global competitiveness
Authors: Carvalho Ícaro Célio Santos de , Di Serio Luiz Carlos , Guimarães Camilla Maria Cavalcante , Furlanetto Karina Santos
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the competitiveness of nations and seeks to answer the following research question: how does the competitiveness of nations include improvements in the quality of life, thus influencing and contributing to social progress in both social and economic indices?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper collected secondary data from the World Economic Forum and the socioeconomic dimensions of the Social Progress Imperative Index and considered the dimensions of these indices, which were demonstrated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The main focus was on the documentary analysis that was carried out to explain the realities of 121 countries from 2014 to 2017 as taken from these indices, considering the 10 countries at the top and bottom.

Findings

This study showed the use of new measures for the performance of nations that are less dependent on economics and focus more on social development, which may be a trend for the future of nations, and produce a more holistic view for the study. “Innovation” is the factor with the weakest relationship with social progress, which is justified by a weaker relationship with one of the subcategories, “basic human needs”, when analyzed in isolation. However, when the authors analyze the best and worst nations, the authors observe that economic factors are still prevalent, with the “institutions” and “infrastructure” factors being effective for improving competitiveness and the quality of life.

Research limitations/implications

The findings represent a new, emerging configuration in country performance, but the study has its limitations, such as the use of only two pooled variables and the fact that it does not correlate their dimensions or variables.

Originality/value

This study can represents an expansion logic for measuring the performance of countries considering social factors. The main contributions of this study are its statistical evidence and documentary analysis of the relationship between economic and social variables. The main contribution of this paper is to show that over time (2014–2017) economic factors, as measured by the competitiveness index of nations, relate to aspects of social welfare, as measured by the social progress index.
From intention to action: an organizational learning case of implementing Building Information Modeling
Authors: Lattuch Frank , Hickey Rebecca Barbara
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the successful implementation of a digital work method named Building Information Modelling (BIM) and make recommendations to help organizations better test and implement innovative work approaches. Learning experiences not only provide insights into the building sector, but also into any organization interested in culture and effective response mechanisms during technological change.

Design/methodology/approach

By applying a critical incident technique, BIM experts at one mid-sized case organization were interviewed to examine the learning experiences from converting implementation intentions into actions. The information from these interviews was used to formulate a number of practical recommendations.

Findings

The interviews outlined the various development opportunities that implementing new digital methods may offer for senior management and staff. Investing in small projects that work and the corresponding behavioral change required, together with regular project reviews, all help to build unique capabilities and to frame a culture that supports organizational development.

Originality/value

The discussion of the various benefits and conditions under which new technology implementation can improve organizational learning provides practitioners with insights into how effectively to convert change intentions into action.
Application of the MST turbulence model to predict the tip leakage vortex flows
Authors: Wang Chaoyue , Wang Fujun , Ye Changliang , Wang Benhong , Zou Zhichao
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Tip leakage vortex flow (TLV) is a common flow phenomenon in the axial-flow hydraulic machinery. High-efficiency simulation of TLV is still not an easy task because of the complex turbulent vortex-cavitation interactions. As an important basis of CFD, turbulence model directly affects the efficient computation of TLV. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the newly developed MST turbulence model in predicting the TLV flows.

Design/methodology/approach

By using the MST turbulence model and the ZGB cavitation model, numerical simulations of the TLV generated by a NACA0009 hydrofoil were performed under the cavitation-free and cavitation conditions, and the results were compared with the available experimental data.

Findings

The important features of TLV are well captured by the MST-based simulation scheme, and the problem of under-predicting the cavitating TLV tube is well solved. Turbulent viscosity is reasonably adjusted in the TLV core regions, and the LES-like mode is activated, which is beneficial to obtain more turbulent information on the same URANS grids. The requirements of grid size and time step of the MST model are much lower than that of the LES method, thereby weighing a good balance between the simulation accuracy and computation cost.

Originality/value

The MST turbulence model is suitable for the high-efficiency simulation of the TLV flows, which can lay a good foundation for efficient engineering computations of the cavitating TLV in the axial-flow hydraulic machinery.
Atomic-scale simulation of hugoniot relations and energy dissipation of polyurea under high-speed shock
Authors: Yao Kaili , Chu Dongyang , Li Ting , Liu Zhanli , Guo Bao-Hua , Xu Jun , Zhuang Zhuo
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to calculate the Hugoniot relations of polyurea; also to investigate the atomic-scale energy change, the related chain conformation evolution and the hydrogen bond dissociation of polyurea under high-speed shock.

Design/methodology/approach

The atomic-scale simulations are achieved by molecular dynamics (MD). Both non-equilibrium MD and multi-scale shock technique are used to simulate the high-speed shock. The energy dissipation is theoretically derived by the thermodynamic and the Hugoniot relations. The distributions of bond length, angle and dihedral angle are used to characterize the chain conformation evolution. The hydrogen bonds are determined by a geometrical criterion.

Findings

The Hugoniot relations calculated are in good agreement with the experimental data. It is found that under the same impact pressure, polyurea with lower hard segment content has higher energy dissipation during the shock-release process. The primary energy dissipation way is the heat dissipation caused by the increase of kinetic energy. Unlike tensile simulation, the molecular potential increment is mainly divided into the increments of the bond energy, angle energy and dihedral angle energy under shock loading and is mostly stored in the soft segments. The hydrogen bond potential increment only accounts for about 1% of the internal energy increment under high-speed shock.

Originality/value

The simulation results are meaningful for understanding and evaluating the energy dissipation mechanism of polyurea under shock loading, and could provide a reference for material design.
Categorization flexibility and unconventional choices: is life an adventure?
Authors: Chowdhury Tilottama G. , Murshed Feisal
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper proposes that categorization flexibility, operationalized as the cognitive capacity that cross-categorizes products in multiple situational categories across multiple domains, might favorably influence a consumer’s evaluation of unconventional options.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental research design is used to test the theory. An exploratory study first establishes the effect of categorization flexibility in a non-food domain. Study 1 documents the moderating role of decision domain, showing that the effect works only under low- (vs high-) consequence domain. Studies 2A and 2B further refine the notion by showing that individuals can be primed in a relatively higher categorization flexibility frame of mind. Study 3 demonstrates the interactive effect of categorization flexibility and adventure priming in a high-consequence domain. Study 4 integrates the interactive effects of decisions with low- vs high-consequence, adventure priming and categorization flexibility within a single decision domain of high consequence.

Findings

Consumers with higher- (vs lower-) categorization flexibility tend to opt for unconventional choices when the decision domain entails low consequences, whereas such a result does not hold under decision domain of high consequences. The categorization flexibility effects in case of low-consequence decision domain holds true even when consumers are primed to be categorization flexible. Furthermore, with additional adventure priming, consumers show an increased preference for unconventional options even under a decision domain with high consequence.

Research limitations/implications

This study could not examine real purchase behavior as results are based on cross-sectional, behavioral intention data. In addition, it did not examine the underlying reason for presence of cross-domain categorization flexibility index.

Practical implications

The results suggest that stimuli may be tailored to consumers in ways that increase the salience and the perceived attractiveness of unconventional choices. Further, data reinforce the notion of cross-categorical interrelations among different domains, which could be leveraged by marketers.

Originality/value

This study represents the first documentation of the potential ways by which unconventional product choice might be a function of individuals’ categorization flexibility level across different types of decision domains. The findings yield implications that are novel to both categorization and consumer decision-making literature.
Standards formation and the implications for HRD
Authors: Short Heather , Anderson Valerie Anne
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the implications of national and international standards for human resource development (HRD) practice. It focuses on the experiences, perceptions and learning of those involved in the social construction of standards and standardisation processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is grounded in institutional and organisational excellence theories and adopts a qualitative approach based in social constructivism. Thematic analysis of the data obtained from 13 semi-structured interviews leads to a discussion of awareness of standards, standards adoption including constraints, and impact of standards.

Findings

The findings indicate that that there has been a disconnect between the potential impact of British Standards Institute (BSI) HR standards and what has occurred in practice with little awareness of the BSI standards among practitioners.

Research limitations/implications

This paper identifies an absence of institutional isomorphism in the HR arena and highlights the potential for a “standards-practice” gap where HR standards formation processes are perceived as detracting from flexibility and innovativeness in organisational practice.

Originality/value

This study contributes a new perspective of the implications of HR standards formation from the perspective of those involved and further contributes to the wider theorisation of standards in the HRD field.
Unethical sales practices in retail banking
Authors: Tosun Petek
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study examines the salesperson-driven unethical behavior toward consumers in the retail banking context.

Design/methodology/approach

Consumer posts on an online social platform were analyzed using content analysis. Cluster analysis and word association analyses were conducted to analyze the posts across ethics dimensions, customer intentions and banking services.

Findings

Complaints about salesperson-driven unethical behavior were classified into three clusters: disrespect, fee deception and other deception. Four themes of consumer intentions emerged from data: expecting an action regarding the staff, fixing the problem, exiting the bank, or just expressing the problem on the social platform. There was a significant difference among clusters in terms of intentions. The deception clusters had a stronger association with fixing the problem, while the disrespect cluster had a stronger association with consumers’ willingness to express their complaints and requests regarding corrective actions for the salespeople.

Practical implications

Banks must differentiate their service recovery approach depending on the problem. While a refund can be more appropriate for recovering deception, a corrective action regarding misbehaving sales staff is expected by the customers for the disrespect problem.

Originality/value

This study contributed to the need for current research on personal selling practices and salesperson ethics in banking services. The unethical sales practices were linked to customer intentions, and several associations were found. An unethical sales behavior framework that can be used in future research was represented.