bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the impact of cancer on survivors' religious faith: A report from the American Cancer Society study of cancer survivors‐I
Authors: Canada Andrea L. , Murphy Patricia E. , Stein Kevin , Alcaraz Kassandra I. , Leach Corinne R. , Fitchett George
Published: March 2020

Objectives

The impact of religion/spirituality (R/S) on cancer outcomes, including health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), has been the topic of much investigation. Reports of the opposite, that is, the impact of cancer on R/S and associations with HRQoL, are few. The current study sought to explore the positive and negative impacts of cancer on the religious faith of survivors as well as the associations of such impacts with HRQoL.

Methods

Participants included 2309 9‐year survivors of cancer from the American Cancer Society's Studies of Cancer Survivors‐I. The impact of cancer on R/S was measured using items from the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) psychosocial impact of illness‐faith, and HRQoL was measured with the 12‐item short form (SF‐12). Hierarchical regressions were used to examine the impact of cancer on R/S controlling for medical and demographic covariates.

Results

Consistent with hypotheses, the majority of survivors (70%) reported that cancer had a positive impact on religious faith, while the negative impact of cancer on religious faith was relatively rare (17%). In multivariable models, the negative impact of cancer on faith was associated with poorer HRQoL, both mental and physical, while the positive impact of cancer on faith was associated with greater mental well‐being.

Conclusions

Cancer has a negative impact on religious faith for a minority of survivors. However, when it is reported, such negative impact is indicative of poorer mental and physical well‐being. As such, it is important to identify those survivors at risk early in survivorship and provide support and intervention as needed.
Improved oxygen systems at hospitals in three Nigerian states: An implementation research study
Authors: Fashanu Chizoba , Mekonnen Tinsae , Amedu Joseph , Onwundiwe Ngozi , Adebiyi Adebimpe , Omokere Oluseyi , Olaleye Tayo , Gartley Martha , Gansallo Seyi , Lewu Funsho , Okita Abraham , Musa Mahmud , Abubakar Ashiru , Ojo Tolulope , Ja'afar Amina , Ekundayo Adebayo Abdulateef , Abubakar Mohammed Lawal , Schroder Kate , Battu Audrey , Wiwa Owens , Houdek Jason , Lam Felix
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Hypoxemia is a life‐threatening condition and is commonly seen in children with severe pneumonia. A government‐led, NGO‐supported, multifaceted oxygen improvement program was implemented to increase access to oxygen therapy in 29 hospitals in Kaduna, Kano, and Niger states. The program installed pulse oximeters and oxygen concentrators, trained health care workers, and biomedical engineers (BMEs), and provided regular feedback to health care staff through quality improvement teams.

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the program increased screening for hypoxemia with pulse oximetry and prescription of oxygen for patients with hypoxemia.

Methodology

The study is an uncontrolled before‐after interventional study implemented at the hospital level. Medical charts of patients under 5 admitted for pneumonia between January 2017 and August 2018 were reviewed and information on patient care was extracted using a standardized form. The preintervention period of this study was defined as 1 January to 31 October 2017 and the postintervention period as 1 February to 31 August 2018. The primary outcomes of the study were whether blood‐oxygen saturation measurements (SpO2) were documented and whether children with hypoxemia were prescribed oxygen.

Results

A total of 3418 patient charts were reviewed (1601 during the preintervention period and 1817 during the postintervention period). There was a significant increase in the proportion of patients with SpO2 measurements after the interventions were conducted (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.0; 4.3‐5.7, P < .001). Before the interventions, only 13.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.2‐15.3) of patients had SpO2 measurements and after the interventions, 82.4% (95% CI: 80.7‐84.1) had SpO2 measurements. Oxygen administration for patients with clinical signs of hypoxemia also increased significantly (aOR 5.0; 4.2‐5.9, P < .001)—from 22.8% (95% CI: 18.8‐27.2) to 77.9% (95% CI: 73.9‐81.5).

Conclusion

Increasing pulse oximetry and oxygen therapy access and utilization in a low‐resourced environment is achievable through a multifaceted program focused on strengthening government‐owned systems.
Optimizing the role of androgen deprivation therapy in advanced prostate cancer: Challenges beyond the guidelines
Authors: Shore Neal D. , Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Cookson Michael S. , Crawford E. David , Morgans Alicia K. , Albala David M. , Hafron Jason , Harris Richard G. , Saltzstein Daniel , Brown Gordon A. , Henderson Jonathan , Lowentritt Benjamin , Spier Jeffrey M. , Concepcion Raoul
Published: March 2020

Background

For specific clinical indications, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) will induce disease prostate cancer (PC) regression, relieve symptoms and prolong survival; however, ADT has a well‐described range of side effects, which may have a detrimental effect on the patient's quality of life, necessitating additional interventions or changes in PC treatment. The risk‐benefit analysis for initiating ADT in PC patients throughout the PC disease continuum warrants review.

Methods

A 14‐member panel comprised of urologic and medical oncologists were chosen for an expert review panel, to provide guidance on a more judicious use of ADT in advanced PC patients. Panel members were chosen based upon their academic and community experience and expertise in the management of PC patients. Four academic members of the panel served as group leaders; the remaining eight panel members were from Large Urology Group Practice Association practices with proven experience in leading their advanced PC clinics. The panel members were assigned to four separate working groups, and were tasked with addressing the role of ADT in specific PC settings.

Results

This article describes the practical recommendations of an expert panel for the use of ADT throughout the PC disease continuum, as well as an algorithm summarizing the key recommendations. The target for this publication is all providers (urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, or advanced practice providers) who evaluate and manage advanced PC patients, regardless of their practice setting.

Conclusion

The panel has provided recommendations for monitoring PC patients while on ADT, recognizing that PC patients will progress despite testosterone suppression and, therefore, early identification of conversion from castrate‐sensitive to castration resistance is critical. Also, the requirement to both identify and mitigate side effects of ADT as well as the importance of quality of life maintenance are essential to the optimization of patient care, especially as more combinatorial therapeutic strategies with ADT continue to emerge.
Reducing the Impact of Bulk Doping on Transport Properties of Bi‐Based 3D Topological Insulators
Authors: Jafarpisheh Shaham , Ju An , Janßen Kevin , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Stampfer Christoph , Beschoten Bernd
Published: March 2020

The observation of helical surface states in Bi‐based 3D topological insulators (TIs) has been a challenge since their theoretical prediction. The main issue arises when the Fermi level shifts deep into the bulk conduction band due to unintentional doping. This results in the metallic conduction of the bulk which dominates the transport measurements and hinders the probing of the surface states in these experiments. Here, various strategies are investigated to reduce the residual doping in Bi‐based TIs. Flakes of Bi2Se3 and Bi1.5Sb0.5Te1.7Se1.3 are grown by physical vapor deposition and their structural and electronic properties are compared with mechanically exfoliated flakes. Using Raman spectroscopy, the role of the substrate in this process is explored, and the optimal conditions for the fabrication of high‐quality crystals are presented. Despite this improvement, it is shown that the vapor phase‐deposited flakes still suffer from structural disorder which leads to the residual n‐type doping of the bulk. Using magneto‐transport measurements, we find that exfoliated flakes show better electrical properties and are thus more promising for the probing of surface states.
Transnasal humidified rapid insufflation ventilatory exchange during bronchoscopy in severe pulmonary hypertension due to Gerbode defect
Authors: Upperman Lucas , Gildea Thomas , Galway Ursula
Published: March 2020

Transnasal humidified rapid insufflation ventilatory exchange (THRIVE) has been shown to prevent desaturation and prolong apnoeic time in the perioperative setting. Previously, pulmonary hypertension was not studied using this technique, due to concern for hypercapnia and resultant transient worsening of mean pulmonary artery pressure. We describe a patient with severe pulmonary hypertension (mean pulmonary artery pressure of 82 mmHg) who underwent bronchoscopy using deep sedation with THRIVE. There were no recorded desaturation events and no post‐operative signs of hypercapnia. This case report demonstrates a novel use of THRIVE in a patient with severe pulmonary hypertension.
Cu–Ni Bimetal Integrated TiO2 Thin Film for Enhanced Solar Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Tudu Bijoy , Nalajala Naresh , Saikia Pranjal , Gopinath Chinnakonda S.
Published: March 2020

A series of non‐noble Cu–Ni bimetallic catalysts is prepared with different molar proportions of metals. Of these bimetallic catalysts, 1 wt% is subsequently integrated with titania P25. The catalysts are evaluated for solar hydrogen generation under 1 sun condition in both the powder and thin film forms. All the photocatalysts in the thin film exhibit an 8–24 times higher hydrogen yield (HY) compared with the corresponding particulate counterpart. The highest HY (41.7 mmol h−1 g−1) is demonstrated for the photocatalyst Cu–Ni/TiO2 (CNT; 1:1 = Cu:Ni) in the thin film form, which is 24 times higher than that with its powder counterpart (1.75 mmol h−1 g−1) and exceeds the performance of other Cu–Ni/TiO2 compositions. This enhanced activity in the thin film can be ascribed to improved absorption of visible light and an effective separation of photogenerated charge carriers at the interface of Cu–Ni/TiO2 leading to better charge carrier utilization.
Pathway-specific reporter genes to study stem cell biology
Authors: Peterson Karen M. , Franchi Federico , Olthoff Michaela , Chen Ian Y. , Paulmurugan Ramasamy , Rodriguez-Porcel Martin
Published: March 2020

Little is known on the phenotypic characteristics of stem cells (SCs) after they are transplanted to the myocardium, in part due to lack of noninvasive platforms to study SCs directly in the living subject. Reporter gene imaging has played a valuable role in the noninvasive assessment of cell fate in vivo. In this study, we validated a pathway-specific reporter gene that can be used to noninvasively image the phenotype of SCs transplanted to the myocardium. Rat mesenchymal SCs (MSCs) were studied for phenotypic evidence of myogenic characteristics under in vitro conditions. After markers of myogenic characteristics were identified, we constructed a reporter gene sensor, comprising the firefly luciferase (Fluc) reporter gene driven by the troponin T (TnT) promoter (cardio MSCs had threefold expression in polymerase chain reaction compared to control MSCs) using a two-step signal amplification strategy. MSCs transfected with TnT-Fluc were studied and validated under in vitro conditions, showing a strong signal after MSCs acquired myogenic characteristics. Lastly, we observed that cardio MSCs had higher expression of the reporter sensor compared to control cells (0.005 ± 0.0005 vs 0.0025 ± 0.0008 Tnt-Fluc/ubiquitin-Fluc, P < .05), and that this novel sensor can detect the change in the phenotype of MSCs directly in the living subject. Pathway-specific reporter gene imaging allows assessment of changes in the phenotype of MSCs after delivery to the ischemic myocardium, providing important information on the phenotype of these cells. Imaging sensors like the one described here are critical to better understanding of the changes that SCs undergo after transplantation.
Hes1deficiency causes hematopoietic stem cell exhaustion
Authors: Ma Zhilin , Xu Jian , Wu Limei , Wang Junjie , Lin Qiqi , Chowdhury Fabliha A. , Mazumder Md. Habibul H. , Hu Gangqing , Li Xue , Du Wei
Published: March 2020

The transcriptional repressor Hairy Enhancer of Split 1 (HES1) plays an essential role in the development of many organs by promoting the maintenance of stem/progenitor cells, controlling the reversibility of cellular quiescence, and regulating both cell fate decisions. Deletion of Hes1 in mice results in severe defects in multiple organs and is lethal in late embryogenesis. Here we have investigated the role of HES1 in hematopoiesis using a hematopoietic lineage-specific Hes1 knockout mouse model. We found that while Hes1 is dispensable for steady-state hematopoiesis, Hes1-deficient hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) undergo exhaustion under replicative stress. Loss of Hes1 upregulates the expression of genes involved in PPARγ signaling and fatty acid metabolism pathways, and augments fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in Hes1f/fVav1Cre HSCs and progenitors. Functionally, PPARγ targeting or FAO inhibition ameliorates the repopulating defects of Hes1f/fVav1Cre HSCs through improving quiescence in HSCs. Lastly, transcriptome analysis reveals that disruption of Hes1 in hematopoietic lineage alters expression of genes critical to HSC function, PPARγ signaling, and fatty acid metabolism. Together, our findings identify a novel role of HES1 in regulating stress hematopoiesis and provide mechanistic insight into the function of HES1 in HSC maintenance.
Photostimulation of cerebral and peripheral lymphatic functions
Authors: Semyachkina‐Glushkovskaya Oxana , Abdurashitov Arkady , Klimova Maria , Dubrovsky Alexander , Shirokov Alexander , Fomin Alexander , Terskov Andrey , Agranovich Ilana , Mamedova Aysel , Khorovodov Aleksandr , Vinnik Valeria , Blokhina Inna , Lezhnev Nikita , Shareef Ali E. , Kuzmina Anna , Sokolovski Sergey , Tuchin Valery , Rafailov Edik , Kurths Jurgen
Published: March 2020

The recently rediscovered meningeal lymphatic system (MLS) opens new insight into pathways of brain clearing and drainage functions that play an important role in neurorehabilitation. The development of breakthrough strategies for augmentation of MLS might be a promising therapeutic target for preventing of neurological diseases. Here we demonstrate photostimulation (PS, 1268 nm) of clearing and drainage function of MLS in healthy male mice. We uncover PS‐mediated increase of the mesenteric lymphatic permeability to fluorescent macrophages via a decrease of expression of tight junction and transendothelial resistance. In sum, our results clearly show PS stimulation of meningeal clearing and drainage functions as well as effects of PS on permeability of the lymphatic endothelium to macrophages. These findings open new strategies for alternative nonpharmacological therapy of brain diseases via PS modulation of lymphatic mechanisms of the homeostasis of central nervous system.
Humanitarian access, interrupted: dynamic near real-time network analytics and mapping for reaching communities in disaster-affected countries
Authors: Warnier Martijn , Alkema Vincent , Comes Tina , Van de Walle Bartel
Published: March 2020

In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, local and international aid organisations deploy to deliver life-saving aid to the affected population. Yet pre-disaster road maps and road transportation models do not capture disruptions to the transportation network caused by the disaster or the dynamic changes of the situation, resulting in uncertainty and inefficiency in planning and decision-making. The integration of data in near real time on the status of the road infrastructure in the affected region can help aid organisations to keep track of the rapidly shifting conditions on the ground and to assess the implications for their logistics planning and operations. In this paper, we present a rapid graph-theoretical reachability information system based on a combination of OpenStreetMap and open humanitarian data. The system supports logistics planning in determining road access to affected communities. We demonstrate the results of our approach in a case study on the 2018 earthquake in Papua New Guinea. Our findings show the reachability of affected communities depending on the actual status of the road network, allowing for the prioritization of targeted locations and the identification of alternative routes to get there.
Sub-micron structuring/texturing of diamond-like carbon-coated replication masters with a femtosecond laser
Authors: Michalek Aleksandra , Qi Shaojun , Batal Afif , Penchev Pavel , Dong Hanshan , See Tian Long , Dimov Stefan
Published: March 2020

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings have very attractive mechanical and tribological properties, i.e. high hardness, low friction and high wear resistance. Therefore, DLC is often used as a solid lubricant in moulds for injection moulding. Laser processing of DLC with ultrashort lasers, i.e. femtosecond lasers, can be performed both at micron and sub-micron scales, namely by producing laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS). In this research, the effects of laser structuring/texturing on DLC properties are investigated. First, the laser-processing parameters were optimised to produce uniform LIPSS without damaging a thin DLC film and then the properties of the textured DLC-coated substrates were studied. It was determined that the tribological properties of the processed surfaces remained unchanged, but the hardness of the structured/textured DLC layers was reduced significantly. Although GAXRD and Raman spectroscopy did not show any significant crystallisation of the DLC coating after the laser irradiation, the analysis indicated that a thin graphitised layer had been formed on the surface as a result of the femtosecond laser processing.
The impact of laser surface treatment on the microstructure, wear resistance and hardness of the AlMg5 aluminum alloy
Authors: Pakieła Wojciech , Tanski Tomasz , Brytan Zbigniew , Chladek Grzegorz , Pakieła Katarzyna
Published: March 2020

Light metal alloys due to several unique properties such as low density and high corrosion resistance are increasingly used in various technical applications, where the automotive industry is one of the most important sectors. The automotive applications use mostly aluminum alloys, where the strength to density ratio of the material plays a crucial factor. Unfortunately, relatively low mechanical properties limit their applications for parts where a high surface hardness and wear resistance is expected. The classic heat treatment of aluminum alloys can only in some limited ranges improve the bulk material properties. Despite this, surface treatment with laser processing has developed significantly over the past 20 years. The laser beam treatment allows the introduction of a wide range of alloying elements to the surface layer of an aluminum alloy and thus, as a result of the precipitation of numerous intermetallic phases, significantly increases hardness, and abrasion resistance. The purpose of this work was to modify the aluminum surface layer using high-power fiber laser (HPFL). During this process, a mixture of titanium and iron powders (90/10 wt.%) was introduced onto the surface of the AlMg5 alloy. The microhardness tests carried out by the Vickers method and tribological tests showed a significant increase in mechanical properties in the entire volume of the obtained layer. Research on light and scanning microscopy revealed fragmentation of primary precipitates and the formation of numerous intermetallic phases rich in titanium and aluminum.
Does cement augmentation of the screws in angular stable plating for proximal humerus fractures influence the radiological outcome: a retrospective assessment
Authors: Knierzinger Dominik , Crepaz-Eger Ulrich , Hengg Clemens , Kralinger Franz
Published: March 2020

Background

Screw-tip augmentation in angular stable plating offers new possibilities for the treatment of complex proximal humerus fractures. This retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate the radiological outcome of proximal humerus fractures treated with angular stable plates and additional screw-tip cement augmentation in patients over the age of 60.

Materials and methods

A retrospective single centre analysis was conducted from June 2013 to December 2016. The minimum follow-up time was set to 6 months after surgery. Anatomical reduction and fixation were evaluated in respect to reattached tuberosities to the head fragment and the adequate restoration of the calcar area not showing any valgus or varus malalignment. Complete fracture healing was determined 3 months after surgery. Any failures such as secondary displacement, primary screw perforation, intraarticular cement leakage and avascular necrosis of the humeral head with concomitant screw cut-out were assessed.

Results

In total, 24 patients (21 females; 3 males) at a median age of 77.5 (62–96) years were included. Five 2-part, twelve 3-part and seven 4-part fractures were detected. The measured median BMD value of 23 patients was 78.4 mg/cm3 (38.8–136.9 mg/cm3). Anatomical reduction was achieved in 50% of the patients. In most cases, the A level screws and the B1 screw were augmented with bone cement by a median of 7 (5–9) head screws used. Postoperative varus displacement was not detected in any of the patients. One patient (4.2%) sustained an early secondary displacement. Intraarticular cement leakage was detected in 3 patients (2 head-split fractures). Avascular necrosis of the humeral head was observed in 4 patients (16.7%). Revision surgery was necessary in four cases, using hemiarthroplasty twice and reverse shoulder arthroplasty the other two times.

Conclusion

Screw-tip augmentation in angular stable plating for proximal humerus fracture treatment showed a low secondary displacement rate of 4.2% in patients suffering from poor bone quality. Nevertheless, the occurrence of avascular necrosis of the humeral head with mainly severe fracture patterns observed in this study was higher compared to previously reported results in the literature. Cement augmentation in head-split fractures is not recommended, considering the high risk of an intraarticular cement leakage.
Effects of 21 days of bed rest and whey protein supplementation on plantar flexor muscle fatigue resistance during repeated shortening contractions
Authors: Bosutti Alessandra , Mulder Edwin , Zange Jochen , Bühlmeier Judith , Ganse Bergita , Degens Hans
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Space flight and bed rest (BR) lead to a rapid decline in exercise capacity. Whey protein plus potassium bicarbonate diet-supplementation (NUTR) could attenuate this effect by improving oxidative metabolism. We evaluated the impact of 21-day BR and NUTR on fatigue resistance of plantar flexor muscles (PF) during repeated shortening contractions, and whether any change was related to altered energy metabolism and muscle oxygenation.

Methods

Ten healthy men received a standardized isocaloric diet with (n = 5) or without (n = 5) NUTR. Eight bouts of 24 concentric plantar flexions (30 s each bout) with 20 s rest between bouts were employed. PF muscle size was assessed by means of peripheral quantitative computed tomography. PF muscle volume was assessed with magnetic resonance imaging. PF muscle force, contraction velocity, power and surface electromyogram signals were recorded during each contraction, as well as energy metabolism (31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and oxygenation (near-infrared spectroscopy). Cardiopulmonary parameters were measured during an incremental cycle exercise test.

Results

BR caused 10–15% loss of PF volume that was partly recovered 3 days after re-ambulation, as a consequence of fluid redistribution. Unexpectedly, PF fatigue resistance was not affected by BR or NUTR. BR induced a shift in muscle metabolism toward glycolysis and some signs of impaired muscle oxygen extraction. NUTR did not attenuate the BR-induced-shift in energy metabolism.

Conclusions

Twenty-one days’ BR did not impair PF fatigue resistance, but the shift to glycolytic metabolism and indications of impaired oxygen extraction may be early signs of developing reduced muscle fatigue resistance.
Human genetics and malaria resistance
Authors: Kariuki Silvia N. , Williams Thomas N.
Published: March 2020

Malaria has been the pre-eminent cause of early mortality in many parts of the world throughout much of the last five thousand years and, as a result, it is the strongest force for selective pressure on the human genome yet described. Around one third of the variability in the risk of severe and complicated malaria is now explained by additive host genetic effects. Many individual variants have been identified that are associated with malaria protection, but the most important all relate to the structure or function of red blood cells. They include the classical polymorphisms that cause sickle cell trait, α-thalassaemia, G6PD deficiency, and the major red cell blood group variants. More recently however, with improving technology and experimental design, others have been identified that include the Dantu blood group variant, polymorphisms in the red cell membrane protein ATP2B4, and several variants related to the immune response. Characterising how these genes confer their effects could eventually inform novel therapeutic approaches to combat malaria. Nevertheless, all together, only a small proportion of the heritable component of malaria resistance can be explained by the variants described so far, underscoring its complex genetic architecture and the need for continued research.
Heat source of the 2014 phreatic eruption of Mount Ontake, Japan
Authors: Miyagi Isoji , Geshi Nobuo , Hamasaki Satoshi , Oikawa Teruki , Tomiya Akihiko
Published: March 2020

We present petrological evidence of the shallow magmatic processes that may have supplied heat and gas to the eruption of Mount Ontake, Japan, on 27 September 2014, which resulted in 63 fatalities. Ash from the eruption comprises primarily hydrothermally altered, white-toned rock fragments. However, the ash contains trace amounts (< 0.7 wt%) of vitreous less-altered particles (LAPs), which are only altered on their surfaces, suggesting rapid ascent through the hydrothermal system. The LAPs are classified into two categories: “glassy” and “crystalline.” Glassy LAPs comprise high-silica rhyolitic glass (74–83 wt% SiO2) with rounded quartz, chalcedony-free vesicles, and reversely zoned plagioclase (cores = 47 mol% An; rims = 70 mol% An), indicating magma re-heating. Crystalline LAPs have a groundmass-like texture that suggests eutectic crystallization at shallow depths. Thermodynamic calculations indicate that the pre-eruptive temperatures of the glassy and crystalline LAPs were 700–1300 °C and ~ 700 °C, respectively, and that the storage depth was < 4 km (pressure < 100 MPa). The observed petrological features suggest that the LAPs were sourced from a magma recently intruded at shallow depths. Although crustal deformation (i.e., the volume change associated with magmatic intrusion) was insignificant prior to the 2014 eruption, a clear signature of crustal deformation was observed in 2007, the source of which was located 3 km below the summit. We suggest that the magma that was intruded 3 km below the summit in 2007 supplied the heat and gas for the 2014 phreatic eruption.
Objective evaluation for treat to target in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Takenaka Kento , Kitazume Yoshio , Fujii Toshimitsu , Tsuchiya Kiichiro , Watanabe Mamoru , Ohtsuka Kazuo
Published: March 2020

Background

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic and destructive bowel disease; continued disease activity can lead to penetrating complications. With the recent advent of effective medications, the importance of using a treat-to-target approach to guide therapy is becoming important.

Methods

In this review, we reviewed the previous evidence for evaluating CD lesions.

Results

We describe ileocolonoscopy’s role in assessing disease activity, as well as recent progress in modalities, such as balloon-assisted endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, magnetic resonance enterography, computed tomography enterography, and ultrasonography. Advances in modalities have changed CD assessment, with small-bowel involvement becoming more important.

Conclusions

Proper optimization is necessary in clinical practice.
Health-related quality of life associated with trifluridine/tipiracil in heavily pretreated metastatic gastric cancer: results from TAGS
Authors: Tabernero Josep , Alsina Maria , Shitara Kohei , Doi Toshihiko , Dvorkin Mikhail , Mansoor Wasat , Arkenau Hendrik-Tobias , Prokharau Aliaksandr , Ghidini Michele , Faustino Catia , Gorbunova Vera , Zhavrid Edvard , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Ando Takayuki , Yalçın Şuayib , Van Cutsem Eric , Sabater Javier , Skanji Donia , Leger Catherine , Amellal Nadia , Ilson David H.
Published: March 2020

Background

In TAGS, an international, double-blind, phase 3 trial, trifluridine/tipiracil significantly improved overall survival and progression-free survival compared with placebo in heavily pretreated metastatic gastric cancer patients. This paper reports pre-specified quality of life (QoL) outcomes for TAGS.

Methods

Patients were randomized 2:1 to trifluridine/tipiracil (35 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1–5 and 8–12 of each 28-day cycle) plus best supportive care (BSC) or placebo plus BSC. QoL was evaluated at baseline and at each treatment cycle, using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-STO22 questionnaires; results were considered valid for analysis only if ≥ 10% of patients completed the questionnaires. Key QoL outcomes were mean changes from baseline and time to deterioration in QoL. A post hoc analysis assessed the association between QoL and time to deterioration of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance score (ECOG PS) to ≥ 2.

Results

Of 507 randomized patients, 496 had baseline QoL data available. The analysis cut-off was 6 cycles for trifluridine/tipiracil and 3 cycles for placebo. In both treatment groups, there were no clinically significant deteriorations in the mean QLQ-C30 Global Health Status (GHS) score, or in most subscale scores. In a sensitivity analysis including death and disease progression as events, there was a trend towards trifluridine/tipiracil reducing the risk of deterioration of QoL scores compared with placebo. Deterioration in the GHS score was associated with deterioration in ECOG PS.

Conclusion

QoL was maintained in TAGS, and there was a trend towards trifluridine/tipiracil reducing the risk of QoL deterioration compared with placebo.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT02500043
Determining Confidence Intervals, and Convergence, for Parameters in Stochastic Evacuation Models
Authors: Grandison Angus
Published: March 2020

An issue when using stochastic egress models is how many simulations are required to accurately represent the modelled scenario? Engineers are mostly interested in a representative Total Evacuation Time (TET). However, the convergence of the TET may not ensure that the full range of evacuation dynamics has been adequately represented. The average total egress curve (AC) has been suggested as an improved measure. Unfortunately, defining a confidence interval (CI) for the AC is problematic. CIs can robustly quantify the precision of many statistics and have been used to define convergence in egress modelling and other research fields. This paper presents a novel application of bootstrapping, functional analysis measures (FAMs), and a bisection algorithm, to derive three FAM-based CIs representing the precision of the AC. These CIs were tested using a theoretical model to demonstrate the consistency of the coverage probability, the actual percentage of CIs that contain the theoretical parameter, with the nominal 95% confidence level (NCL). For two of the FAM-based CIs, it was found that the coverage probability was between 94.2% and 95.6% for all tested sample sizes between 10 and 4000 simulations. The third FAM-based CI’s coverage probability was always greater than the NCL and was a conservative estimate, but this presented no problems in practice. A FAM-based CI may suggest if there is more or less variability in an earlier phase of the evacuation. A convergence scheme based on statistical precision, CI widths, is proposed and verified. The method can be extended to other statistics.
The cultivation of Pyropia haitanensis has important impacts on the seawater microbial community
Authors: Wang Wenlei , Wu Lei , Xu Kai , Xu Yan , Ji Dehua , Chen Changsheng , Xie Chaotian
Published: March 2020

Microorganisms play important roles in the growth and development of macroalgae. Still, the biodiversity of the epiphytic microbial community associated with the economically important red alga Pyropia haitanensis during the cultivation period remains uncharacterized, especially the effects of P. haitanensis cultivation on the microbial community of surrounding seawater. Here, we isolated epiphytic microbes from P. haitanensis during the thallus stage during oceanic cultivation and the conchocelis stage during industrial cultivation. The dynamic diversity patterns, as determined by 16S and 18S rRNA gene sequencing of the bacterial and fungal communities, respectively, associated with P. haitanensis and seawater in the presence and absence of algal cultivation were investigated. A notable distinction was observed between the microbial communities of seawater with and without P. haitanensis cultivation. Additionally, the alpha-diversity of seawater with P. haitanensis cultivation was significantly greater than without P. haitanensis cultivation. Cyanobacteria were the dominant species in the latter, while Rhodobacteraceae was enriched in the former. Furthermore, there were significant differences in the microbial community of P. haitanensis at the thallus and conchocelis stages. Seawater properties had significant direct effects on the microbial diversity of P. haitanensis and cultivation seawater, but not on non-cultivation seawater. The enriched microbial presence might promote thallus morphogenesis and be beneficial for the growth and development of both the thallus and conchocelis stages. These findings expand our knowledge of the bacteria and fungi that are beneficial for Pyropia nursery seeding and cultivation, as well as the effects of P. haitanensis cultivation on the seawater microbial community.
Accretion of the Earth—Missing Components?
Authors: Mezger K. , Schönbächler M. , Bouvier A.
Published: March 2020

Primitive meteorites preserve the chemical and isotopic composition of the first aggregates that formed from dust and gas in the solar nebula during the earliest stages of solar system evolution. Gradual increase in the size of solid bodies from dust to aggregates and then to planetesimals finally led to the formation of planets within a few to tens of million years after the start of condensation. Thus the rocky planets of the inner solar system are likely the result of the accumulation of numerous smaller primitive as well as differentiated bodies. The chemically most primitive known meteorites are chondrites and they consist mostly of metal and silicates. Chondritic meteorites are derived from distinct primitive planetary bodies that experienced only limited element fractionation during formation and subsequent differentiation. Different chondrite classes show distinct chemical and isotopic characteristics, which may reflect heterogeneities in the solar nebula and the slightly different pathways of their formation. To a first approximation the chemical composition of the bulk Earth bears great similarities to primitive meteorites. However, for some elements there are striking and significant differences. The Earth shows a much stronger depletion of the moderate to highly volatile elements compared to chondrites. In addition, mixing trends of specific isotopes reveal that the Earth is most enriched in$s$s-process isotopes compared to all other analysed bulk solar system materials. It is currently not possible to fully define and quantify the different chemical and isotopic materials that formed the Earth, because a major component seems missing in the extant collections of extraterrestrial samples. Variations in nucleosynthetic isotope compositions as well as the strong depletion of moderately and strongly volatile elements points towards a source in the inner solar system for this missing material. It is conceivable that Venus and Mercury contain a much larger fraction of this missing component. Thus, for a complete reconstruction of the conditions that led to the formation of the inner solar system planets (Mercury to Mars) samples from the inner planets Venus and Mercury are of great interest and importance. High precision chemical and isotopic analyses in the laboratory of rocky material from inner solar system bodies could complete the knowledge on the chemical, isotopic and mineralogical make-up of the solar nebula just prior to planet formation and enhance our understanding of the evolution of the solar nebula in general and the formation of the rocky planets in particular.
Weight-Related Status and Associated Predictors with Psychological Well-being among First-Year University Students in Bangladesh: A Pilot Study
Authors: Islam Md. Saiful , Akter Rejina , Sikder Md. Tajuddin , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: March 2020

University students (especially first-years) not only have to cope with their academic curriculum but also issues such as being away from the home environment and living independently for the first time. Those who do not adapt quickly to these new conditions are likely to be susceptible to physical and psychological vulnerabilities. The present study surveyed first-year Bangladeshi undergraduate students to investigate their weight status (i.e., the prevalence of being normal weight, underweight, overweight, and obese) and the prevalence of depression and associated risk factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 404 first-year university students (aged 18–23 years) residing at a Bangladeshi university. The participants completed a survey examining socio-demographic and behavioral variables, alongside the WHO-5 Well-Being Index. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine significant associations between the variables under examination. Prevalence rates of being normal weight, underweight, overweight, and obese were 66.8%, 20.3%, 9.7%, and 3.2% respectively. Associated predictors of weight-related problems were being female and lack of physical exercise. The prevalence rate of depression was 68.1%. There were no significant gender differences and associated predictors of depression were lack of physical exercise, unsatisfactory sleep quality, excessive internet use, and excessive reading hours. Being underweight, overweight, or being obese alongside the prevalence of depression among first-year university students were high. Findings indicate that first-year university students are a vulnerable group for some physical and psychological problems. Findings recommend the need for intervention programs, alongside adequate and appropriate supportive services for first-year Bangladeshi university students.
Endophytic colonization by Beauveria bassiana increases the resistance of tomatoes against Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Wei Qiu-Yang , Li Ya-Ying , Xu Chen , Wu Yi-Xia , Zhang Ya-Ru , Liu Huai
Published: March 2020

Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungus, can exist asymptomatically as an endophyte in many plants. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of B. bassiana colonization of tomato plants using different inoculation methods, and how colonization of the host plant affects the key pest of tomato, the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. To confirm fungal colonization efficiency, nested PCR technique was used to detect B. bassiana sequences in Solanum lycopersicum. Distribution of the fungus within the plant parts was determined by selective medium. Tomato growth parameters were determined with plants that had been inoculated using direct spraying or irrigation of the rhizosphere. B. tabaci performance assays were carried out in a cage, and preference to treatments was determined using Y-tube olfactometer studies. Results show that B. bassiana can effectively colonize tomato, with colonization rate using leaf spraying reaching 100% within 14 days. Fungal presence was not uniformly distributed among plant parts, but was biased towards the inoculation sites. For inoculation, conidial suspension sprayed at 1 × 108 conidia/ml resulted in the highest number of isolated colonies in leaf tissue, 8.5 ± 2.02 colonies per 2 g of fresh tissue (F4,19 = 2.779, P = 0.045), and reached the lowest with root treatment. Although only small differences were observed among the growth indicators, leaf spray inoculation resulted in a significant positive influence on plant growth (PC1 55.7% contributions scores = 2.645) in further Principal component analysis. As for the feeding selectivity, B. tabaci preferred uninoculated plants. In Y-tube olfactometer assay, 80.5% of adults selected uninoculated plants. These findings add to the understanding of the interactions between B. bassiana and plants and indicate the potential of expanding the use of entomopathogenic fungi for crop protection.
Early medieval Italian Alps: reconstructing diet and mobility in the valleys
Authors: Paladin Alice , Moghaddam Negahnaz , Stawinoga Agnieszka Elzbieta , Siebke Inga , Depellegrin Valentina , Tecchiati Umberto , Lösch Sandra , Zink Albert
Published: March 2020

In Early Middle Ages (sixth–eleventh centuries AD), South Tyrol (Italian Alps) played a key role for geographical and military reasons. Historical sources document that allochthonous groups (germani) entered the territory, and the material culture shows mutual cultural exchanges between autochthonous andgermani. Besides the nature of the migration, the demographic and socio-cultural impacts on the local population are still unknown. Stable isotope analyses were performed to provide insights into dietary patterns, subsistence strategies, changes in socio-economic structures, and mobility, according to spatial (e.g. valleys, altitudes) and chronological (centuries) parameters. Bone collagen of 32 faunal and 91 human bone samples from nine sites, located at different altitudes, was extracted for stable carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur isotope analyses. In total, 94% (30/32) of the faunal remains were of good quality, while the humans displayed 93% (85/91) of good quality samples for δ13C and δ15N and 44% (40/91) for δ34S stable isotopes. The isotopic results of the animals reflected a terrestrial-based diet. Statistical differences were observed within and among the humans of the different valleys. The δ13C values of individuals sampled from higher altitudes indicated a mainly C3plant-based diet compared to areas at lower altitudes, where more positive δ13C values showed an intake of C4plants. The δ15N values suggested a terrestrial-based diet with a greater consumption of animal proteins at higher altitudes. The data revealed higher variability in δ34S values in the Adige valley, with individuals probably migrating and/or changing dietary habits.
Nationhood as Practice and the Modernity of Nations: A Conceptual Proposal
Authors: Moreno-Almendral Raúl
Published: March 2020

This article revisits the debate on the modernity of nations considering recent critical approaches to national phenomena. It proposes an alternative model that addresses the existence of empirical evidence about nations before the 19th century without erasing key changes in the history of nationhood, such as the rise of the principle of national sovereignty. The model draws on existing literature and a corpus of British, French, Spanish, and Portuguese ego-documents from the Age of Revolutions. The study of patterns of usage of national languages in these life narratives supports the abandonment of the premodern/modern antinomy and the implementation of a more complex account. The proposal distinguishes republican, genetic, nonpoliticized ethnotypical, politicized ethnotypical, liberal, romantic, biological, cultural, and democratic forms of nationhood. It then develops the genetic and the ethnotypical forms using source materials and readdresses the issue of “modernity” in the light of this evidence.
Polyol-assimilation capacities of lichen-inhabiting fungi
Authors: Yoshino Kanami , Yamamoto Kohei , Masumoto Hiroshi , Degawa Yousuke , Yoshikawa Hiroko , Harada Hiroshi , Sakamoto Kazunori
Published: March 2020

Fungi are one of the most diverse carbon source-assimilating organisms, living as saprobes, parasites and symbionts; they play an important role in carbon cycling in the ecosystem. A lichen thallus provides habitats for many non-lichenized fungi and usually contains large quantities of polyols. However, research has not been undertaken to identify carbon sources of lichen-inhabiting fungi. In this study, we isolated various lichen-inhabiting fungi from surface-sterilizedRamalinaspp.,Flavoparmelia caperataandPeltigera degenii, and demonstrated their ability to assimilate carbon sources, namely glucose, ribitol and mannitol. Several isolates efficiently assimilated mannitol and ribitol; however, most isolates could assimilate only mannitol or both ribitol and mannitol at low levels. It is suggested that there are different preferences and niche segregation of carbon sources among lichen-inhabiting fungi, and that this assemblage includes fungi with different lifestyles such as saprobes, endophytes and transient visitors.
Antibacterial activities and bioactive compounds of the ethyl acetate extract of the sea cucumberHolothuria forskalifrom Tunisian coasts
Authors: Telahigue Khaoula , Ghali Ridha , Nouiri Ezzeddine , Labidi Abdelbaki , Hajji Tarek
Published: March 2020

Previous scientific studies have listed chemical compounds from sea cucumber species. The ability to produce bioactive metabolites derives from their response to various ecological stresses and avoidance of predation. In view of this, the present work aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity and quantitatively assess the active components of different organs of the sea cucumberHolothuria foskalicollected from the north-east of Tunisia. The antibacterial activity of ethyl acetate extracts was tested againstBacillus subtilis,Bacillus cereus,Escherichia coliandPseudomonas aeruginosa. It was revealed thatEscherichia coliandBacillus subtiliswere inhibited by the sea cucumber extracts. To identify the composition of these extracts, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (LC-MS) methods were used. The GC-MS revealed the presence of 25 major components, the most concentrated ones were characterized as C26H27N5O6Morphinan-4,5-epoxy-3,6-diol, 6 amino;C17H31F3O23-trifluoroacetoxypentadecane; C31H50O2Stigmasta-5,22-dien-3-ol,acetate; C11H14O21-Phthalanol,1,3,3-trimethyl 1-phenyl; C30H48O2Ergosta-5,22-dien-3-ol,acetate and C25H40O2(9E)-8-Phenyl-9-octadecenoic acid methyl ester; while the LC-MS revealed the presence of eight molecules, identified as phenolic acid, phytosterol and fat-soluble vitamins. Some molecules are interesting and deserve to be explored for their potential uses as ingredients in functional foods or as raw materials for new drug forms.
Kawasaki disease with giant aneurysm of left coronary artery and complete occlusion of right coronary artery
Authors: Muneer Kader , Narayanan Santhosh
Published: March 2020

Kawasaki disease is an acute febrile medium-vessel vasculitis affecting children. Though coronary artery aneurysm is a common complication, stenosis and occlusion are rare. Here, we report a case of Kawasaki disease with concomitant aneurysm and complete occlusion of different coronary arteries in the same patient.