bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reperfusion Therapy Frequency and Outcomes in Mild Ischemic Stroke in the United States
Authors: Saber Hamidreza , Khatibi Kasra , Szeder Viktor , Tateshima Satoshi , Colby Geoffrey P. , Nour May , Jahan Reza , Duckwiler Gary , Liebeskind David S. , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2020

Background and Purpose:

More than half of patients with acute ischemic stroke have minor neurological deficits; however, the frequency and outcomes of reperfusion therapy in regular practice has not been well-delineated.

Methods:

Analysis of US National Inpatient Sample of hospitalizations with acute ischemic stroke and mild deficits (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score 0–5) from October 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017. Patient- and hospital-level characteristics associated with use and outcome of reperfusion therapies were analyzed. Primary outcomes included excellent discharge disposition (discharge to home without assistance); poor discharge disposition (discharge to facility or death); in-hospital mortality; and radiological intracranial hemorrhage.

Results:

Among 179 710 acute ischemic stroke admissions with recorded NIHSS during the 15-month study period, 103 765 (57.7%) had mild strokes (47.3% women; median age, 69 [interquartile range, 59–79] years; median NIHSS score of 2 [interquartile range, 1–4]). Considering reperfusion therapies among strokes with documented NIHSS, mild deficit hospitalizations accounted for 40.0% of IVT and 10.7% of mechanical thrombectomy procedures. Characteristics associated with IVT and with mechanical thrombectomy utilization were younger age, absence of diabetes, higher NIHSS score, larger/teaching hospital status, and Western US region. Excellent discharge outcome occurred in 48.2% of all mild strokes, and in multivariable analysis, was associated with younger age, male sex, White race, lower NIHSS score, absence of diabetes, heart failure, and kidney disease, and IVT use. IVT was associated with increased likelihood of excellent outcome (odds ratio, 1.90 [95% CI, 1.71–2.13],
P
<0.001) despite an increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage (odds ratio, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.09–1.83],
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

In national US practice, more than one-half of acute ischemic stroke hospitalizations had mild deficits, accounting for 4 of every 10 IVT and 1 of every 10 mechanical thrombectomy treatments, and IVT use was associated with increased discharge to home despite increased intracranial hemorrhage.
Freedom, Compassion and Creativity
Authors: Searle Joshua T.
Published: October 2020

The response of the Church to the Revolution of Dignity (Революція гідності) in Ukraine in 2013–14 signalled a seismic shift in Christian public engagement with post-Soviet society. The implications and significance of the Revolution extended beyond the national boundaries of Ukraine. The revolutionary events became a symbol of hope for the church and society. Theologians and Christian leaders throughout the nations of the former Soviet Union began to reconsider the public witness of the church. This article uses the notion of public theology to explore how Ukrainian evangelical Christians can engage with matters of public significance in the aftermath of the Revolution of Dignity. I conclude with a proposal for the application of three principles (freedom, compassion and creativity) as appropriate points of departure for evangelical theological reflection on public issues in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union today.
The Challenges of Radical Hospitality for Evangelical Public Theology: the Ukrainian Case
Authors: Soloviy Roman
Published: October 2020

In recent decades we have observed the recovery of the Christian tradition of hospitality. Christian theologians mostly view hospitality as a fundamental spiritual virtue, an obligation, that is essential for the dynamic expression of authentic Christian faith. Emphasis is given to the moral significance of hospitality. The intention of this article is to demonstrate that a theological framework of hospitality can be enriched by dialoguing with the interpretation of hospitality in continental philosophy. The philosophical approach calls attention to the fact that hospitality is not only a moral virtue that inspires the response of Christian communities to the needs of and the most vulnerable. First and foremost, hospitality should be regarded as unconditional exposure to the Other. This article will conclude with an analysis of preliminary outcomes and of prospects for the further development of a truly hospitable attitude to the other in Ukrainian evangelical communities.
Salafi Youth Activism in Britain: A Social Movement Perspective
Authors: Emmerich Arndt
Published: October 2020

The article uses insights from social movement theory (SMT) to comprehend how a local Salafi youth group in Britain promotes ideas, recruits new members and shares organisational features with other forms of collective action. A social movement perspective has not been employed systematically for the study of quietest Salafi activism, partially because of an urban, elite bias within SMT and fusion of SMT with terrorism studies. This omission within SMT is discussed, stressing that, although insights from SMT can be useful for understanding Salafi youth groups, its current application may further contribute to the stereotyping of Muslim minorities in Europe.
10 Calculation
Authors: Robertson Stephen
Published: October 2020

Here, the author discusses the development of ideas around mechanical calculation, from the abacus on. The chapter ends with a discussion of the different ways numbers may be represented and calculated with in a computer.
Registration Method Between Phase-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Angiography and Time-of-Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Nomura Seiji , Kin Taichi , Kunimatsu Akira , Shojima Masaaki , Watanebe Yasushi , Suzuki Yuuichi , Shono Naoyuki , Imai Hideaki , Saito Toki , Nakatomi Hirofumi , Oyama Hiroshi , Saito Nobuhito
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To evaluate a new method that registers phase-contrast magnetic resonance angiography images to time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography images. Methods: Magnetic resonance angiography datasets of 10 healthy volunteers obtained by using two modalities (phase-contrast
magnetic resonance angiography and time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography) were preprocessed. Specifically, vessel regions were extracted using the region growing method with a threshold of 10% of the signal intensity maximum or 50% of the signal intensity maximum for phase-contrast
magnetic resonance angiography images and time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography images, respectively. Then, the normalized mutual information method was used to determine spatial positions, and registration between non-preprocessed phase-contrast magnetic resonance angiography and
time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography was performed using the spatial position information. Misalignment of 3 anatomical points was used to compare the accuracy of registration in this data group (the proposed method group) to that in the data group without registration (the non-registration
group) and that in the data group subjected to normalized mutual information-based registration without preprocessing (the non-preprocessing group). Results: The mean misalignment of 3 anatomical points ± standard error was 1.69 ± 0.11 mm in the proposed method group,
and 2.77± 0.13 mm and 90.28 ± 8.24 mm in the non-registration group and non-preprocessing group, respectively. The mean misalignment of 3 anatomical points was significantly smaller in the proposed method group than in the non-registration group (p = 0 001). Conclusions:
The proposed preprocessing and registration method improved the accuracy of normalized mutual information-based registration between phase-contrast magnetic resonance angiography images and time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography images.
Spatially Variable Advection Correction of Doppler Radial Velocity Data
Authors: Shapiro Alan , Gebauer Joshua G. , Dahl Nathan A. , Bodine David J. , Mahre Andrew , Potvin Corey K.
Published: October 2020

Techniques to mitigate analysis errors arising from the nonsimultaneity of data collections typically use advection-correction procedures based on the hypothesis (frozen turbulence) that the analyzed field can be represented as a pattern of unchanging form in horizontal translation. It is more difficult to advection correct the radial velocity than the reflectivity because even if the vector velocity field satisfies this hypothesis, its radial component does not—but that component does satisfy a second-derivative condition. We treat the advection correction of the radial velocity (υ

r
) as a variational problem in which errors in that second-derivative condition are minimized subject to smoothness constraints on spatially variable pattern-translation components (U, V). The Euler–Lagrange equations are derived, and an iterative trajectory-based solution is developed in which U, V, and υ

r
are analyzed together. The analysis code is first verified using analytical data, and then tested using Atmospheric Imaging Radar (AIR) data from a band of heavy rainfall on 4 September 2018 near El Reno, Oklahoma, and a decaying tornado on 27 May 2015 near Canadian, Texas. In both cases, the analyzed υ

r
field has smaller root-mean-square errors and larger correlation coefficients than in analyses based on persistence, linear time interpolation, or advection correction using constant U and V. As some experimentation is needed to obtain appropriate parameter values, the procedure is more suitable for non-real-time applications than use in an operational setting. In particular, the degree of spatial variability in U and V, and the associated errors in the analyzed υ

r
field are strongly dependent on a smoothness parameter.
Contest for Dominance: US–China Rivalry in Asia
Authors: Barua Mintu
Published: October 2020

There is an ongoing debate whether China is a satisfied power or a dissatisfied revisionist power. On the basis of the concept of regime insecurity and power transition theory, this article argues that the resolution of this debate mainly depends on some essentially interrelated complex factors—China’s assertive behaviour, China’s core interests, China’s internal security, and China’s involvement in territorial disputes. Moreover, this article examines the validity of the usual claim of power transition theory that the dominant power is always satisfied with the status quo, and contrary to this idea of power transition theory, this article suggests that the dominant power can be dissatisfied and revisionist too if its hegemony is under threat.
Navigating the Last Mile: The Demand Effects of Click-and-Collect Order Fulfillment
Authors: Gielens Katrijn , Gijsbrechts Els , Geyskens Inge
Published: October 2020

Many retailers are rushing into the click-and-collect (C&C) format, where shoppers place orders online and pick up the goods themselves later. The authors study the demand implications of C&C and postulate how different ways of organizing this format—each with its own convenience features—appeal to households with different shopper characteristics. Using two data sets, each covering the introduction of two C&C fulfillment types by a major grocery retailer in a large number of local markets, the authors compare the impact of in-store fulfillment (pickup at existing stores), near-store fulfillment (pickup at outlets adjoining stores), and stand-alone fulfillment (pickup at free-standing locations). The authors find that the shift in online consumer spending significantly differs between the three order fulfillment types, as does the impact on total spending. No one order fulfillment type systematically dominates; the effects depend heavily on shopper characteristics. The study’s results provide guidance on which C&C fulfillment type(s) to operate under what conditions and caution retailers not to take the easy in-store route routinely.
Gender (Still) Matters in Business School
Authors: Krishna Aradhna , Orhun A. Yeşim
Published: October 2020

This research documents systematic gender performance differences (GPD) at a top business school using a unique administrative data set and survey of students. The findings show that women’s grades are 11% of a standard deviation lower in quantitative courses than those of men with similar academic aptitude and demographics, and men’s grades are 23% of a standard deviation lower in nonquantitative courses than those of comparable women. The authors discuss and test for different reasons to explain this finding. They show that a female instructor significantly cuts down GPD for quantitative courses by raising the relative grades of female students. In addition, female instructors increase women’s interest and performance expectations in these courses and are perceived as role models by their female students. These results provide support for a gender stereotype process for GPD and show that faculty can serve as powerful exemplars to challenge gender stereotypes and increase student achievement. The authors discuss several important implications of these findings for business schools and for society.
Preoperative computed tomography assessment for a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap: a new easy technique from the Bologna experience
Authors: Renzulli Matteo , Clemente Alfredo , Brocchi Stefano , Gelati Chiara , Zanotti Simone , Pizzi Carmine , Tassone Daniela , Cappabianca Salvatore , Cipriani Riccardo , Golfieri Rita
Published: October 2020

Background

Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction is the gold standard reconstructive technique for women undergoing breast cancer surgery. A preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA)-dedicated protocol and 3D reconstructions are mandatory for correct surgical planning.

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a new preoperative CTA protocol and a new reconstruction method in the assessment of DIEP technique.

Material and Methods

A total of 263 women (median age 49 years, age range 26–73 years) underwent preoperative CTA examination before DIEP flap breast reconstruction. A CTA-dedicated protocol followed by 3D-reconstructions were performed. Identification, branching pattern, and caliber at origin were assessed for each perforator. Intraoperative findings were the standard of reference. The sensitivity, positive predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of the preoperative CTA protocol were calculated.

Results

In 255/263 (97%) patients, the dominant perforators assessed by CTA resulted adequate for surgical reconstruction. In 260/263 (99%) cases, the imaging localization of the dominant perforators corresponded with those seen intraoperatively (mean errors ≤1 cm). The preoperative CTA imaging sensitivity, positive predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy in determining the localization of perforators were 99% (95% CI 98–100), 100% and 99% (95% CI 98–100), respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the CTA findings and the surgical findings for the assessment of branching pattern and caliber of the dominant perforators ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The present protocol has demonstrated high accuracy in the CTA imaging assessment of the perforators before DIEP flap reconstruction with high reproducibility between CT and surgical findings.
Nutritional Status Among School-Age Children of Bangladeshi Tea Garden Workers
Authors: Iqbal Mohd Shamim , Palmer Amanda C. , Waid Jillian , Rahman S. M. Mustafizur , Bulbul Md. M. Islam , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: October 2020

Background:

While considerable progress has been made in reducing undernutrition in Bangladesh, regional disparities are known to exist, and certain population subgroups may lag behind.

Objective:

To characterize nutritional status among school-age children in a historically marginalized population of Bangladesh.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional assessment of children attending 14 nongovernmental organization-operated schools serving the tea estate population in Kulaura Upazila, Sylhet Division. We randomly selected 168 children from a population of 418 whose parents attended school-organized Parent–Teacher Association meetings. Parents provided consent and data on household food consumption in the past week, foods consumed by children in the past 24 hours, and household food insecurity. We drew venous blood from assenting children for the analysis of hemoglobin and plasma retinol, C-reactive protein, and α1-acid glycoprotein. Children were classified as stunted, underweight, or thin based on comparisons with the World Health Organization standards for height-for-age, weight-for-age, or body mass index-for-age, respectively.

Results:

Food insecurity was highly prevalent, with ∼85% of households affected. Roughly half of children had low dietary diversity. Prevalence estimates for stunting, underweight, and thinness were 32%, 50%, and 49%, respectively. Approximately 60% of children had a hemoglobin concentration <11 g/dL. The mean (±SD) plasma retinol concentration was 0.79 μmol/L (±0.23 μmol/L), with 34% deficient using a 0.70 μmol/L cutoff.

Conclusions:

A heightened focus on tracking progress in underserved populations and appropriately targeted programming will be critical as Bangladesh seeks to accelerate progress toward global development goals for nutrition.
A One-Session Treatment of PTSD After Single Sexual Assault Trauma. A Pilot Study of the WONSA MLI Project: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rajan Gita , Wachtler Caroline , Lee Sara , Wändell Per , Philips Björn , Wahlström Lars , Svedin Carl Göran , Carlsson Axel C.
Published: October 2020

Sexual abuse is a crime with devastating health consequences. Accessible, acceptable and affordable treatment of PTSD after sexual abuse is important. In this pilot study, a one-session PTSD treatment and a modified perspective to PTSD treatment is introduced. The aim of the study was to test the efficacy of one session of Modified Lifespan Integration (MLI) on reduction of symptoms of PTSD in individuals with PTSD after one sexual assault. This was a single-center, individually randomized waitlist-controlled treatment study with 1:1 allocation, with the intervention of one 90 - 140 minutes session of MLI and with post-treatment follow-up at 3 weeks (time point two). All participants were females, mean age 24, with PTSD symptoms after one sexual assault during the past 5 years. Exclusion criteria were poor understanding of Swedish, multiple traumas, active substance abuse, active psychosis, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorder. Of 135 interested participants, 38 were finally included, 36 completed baseline measures and were included in the intent to treat analyses and 33 were analyzed per protocol. The primary outcome was the difference between the two trial arms in mean PTSD symptoms as measured by the Impact of Event Scale Revised (IES-R) at time point two. In the intervention arm, 72% no longer scored PTSD in per-protocol analysis, compared to 6% in the waiting list arm. IES-R scores were on average halved in the intervention arm (F=21.37, P<0.001), but were essentially unchanged in the waiting list arm. No adverse effects or drop-outs were seen. One session of Modified Lifespan Integration was an effective treatment with a low drop-out rate for females aged 15-65 with PTSD after one sexual assault. Provided that this result can be replicated, MLI should be offered to these patients in clinical settings. Registration number NCT03141047 was given 03/25/2016 at ClinicalTrials.gov ( https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/ ).
Advances in coupled axial turbine and nonaxisymmetric exhaust volute aerodynamics for turbomachinery
Authors: Gao Jie , Tao Chunde , Huo Dongchen , Wang Guojie
Published: October 2020

Marine, industrial, turboprop and turboshaft gas turbine engines use nonaxisymmetric exhaust volutes for flow diffusion and pressure recovery. These processes result in a three-dimensional complex turbulent flow in the exhaust volute. The flows in the axial turbine and nonaxisymmetric exhaust volute are closely coupled and inherently unsteady, and they have a great influence on the turbine and exhaust aerodynamic characteristics. Therefore, it is very necessary to carry out research on coupled axial turbine and nonaxisymmetric exhaust volute aerodynamics, so as to provide reference for the high-efficiency turbine-volute designs. This paper summarizes and analyzes the recent advances in the field of coupled axial turbine and nonaxisymmetric exhaust volute aerodynamics for turbomachinery. This review covers the following topics that are important for turbine and volute coupled designs: (1) flow and loss characteristics of nonaxisymmetric exhaust volutes, (2) flow interactions between axial turbine and nonaxisymmetric exhaust volute, (3) improvement of turbine and volute performance within spatial limitations and (4) research methods of coupled turbine and exhaust volute aerodynamics. The emphasis is placed on the turbine-volute interactions and performance improvement. We also present our own insights regarding the current research trends and the prospects for future developments.
Pediatric catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome patient evolving to systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Carvalho Jozélio Freire de , Silva Felipe Freire , Shoenfeld Yehuda
Published: October 2020

Objectives

We aim to describe a rare case of a young patient with a catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (cAPS) who evolved to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methodology: Case report description.

Case report

A 15 years old girl came to the emergency department with acute peritonitis secondary to ischemic perforation of the sigmoid. Angiotomography was suggestive of a thrombotic occlusion of the upper mesenteric artery. Laboratory tests revealed a positive lupus anticoagulant and antinuclear antibodies. A cAPS diagnosis was determined based on more than three different sites of thrombosis (lung, kidney, spleen and sigmoid) in less than one week with a lupus anticoagulant. She was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone 1 mg/kg/day associated with intravenous heparin followed by intravenous immunoglobulin. She had a very good outcome with a total improvement and was discharged from the hospital after 2 months. After 12 weeks, the lupus anticoagulant remained positive. After two months, a systemic lupus erythematosus was diagnosed. She was treated with increasing dose of prednisone and azathioprine 100 mg/day and hydroxychloroquine were added to the treatment. After 2 weeks, she was asymptomatic. She is currently well, asymptomatic using hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine and warfarin.

Conclusion

This article reports a very unusual presentation which is rarely reported and clinicians should be alert to the possibility that CAPS may be the presenting event for SLE patients, condition known in adults and should also be remembered in pediatric scenario.
Prevention of recurrent miscarriage in women with antiphospholipid syndrome: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Ziyi , Shen Xiangli , Zhou Chuqing , Wang Min , Liu Yi , Zhou Lin
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To compare and rank currently available pharmacological interventions for the prevention of recurrent miscarriage (RM) in women with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods

A search was performed using PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CNKI, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the UK National Research Register on December 15, 2019. Studies comparing any types of active interventions with placebo/inactive control or another active intervention for the prevention of RM in patients with APS were considered for inclusion. The primary outcomes were efficacy (measured by live birth rate) and acceptability (measured by all-cause discontinuation); secondary outcomes were birthweight, preterm birth, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth retardation. The protocol of this study was registered with Open Science Framework (DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/B9T4E).

Results

In total, 54 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 4,957 participants were included. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) alone, aspirin plus LMWH or unfractionated heparin (UFH), aspirin plus LMWH plus intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), aspirin plus LMWH plus IVIG plus prednisone were found to be effective pharmacological interventions for increasing live birth rate (ORs ranging between 2.88 to 11.24). In terms of acceptability, no significant difference was found between treatments. In terms of adverse perinatal outcomes, aspirin alone was associated with a higher risk of preterm birth than aspirin plus LMWH (OR 3.92, 95% CI 1.16 to 16.44) and with lower birthweight than LMWH (SMD −808.76, 95% CI −1596.54 to −5.07).

Conclusions

Our findings support the use of low-dose aspirin plus heparin as the first-line treatment for prevention of RM in women with APS, and support the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine, IVIG, and prednisone when added to current treatment regimens. More large-scale, high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm these findings, and new pharmacological options should be further evaluated.
Joint Recommendations on Reporting Empirical Research in Outdoor, Experiential, Environmental, and Adventure Education Journals
Authors: Seaman Jayson , Dettweiler Ulrich , Humberstone Barbara , Martin Bruce , Prince Heather , Quay John
Published: October 2020

Background: Ongoing changes in academic publishing require periodic updates to research reporting standards in outdoor, experiential, environmental, and adventure education and recreation fields, to maintain quality and relevance. Purpose: This essay interprets recent statements by major educational and psychological associations and applies their guidelines for research reporting to the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Leadership (JOREL), the Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education (JOEE), the Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning (JAEOL), and the Journal of Experiential Education (JEE). Methodology/Approach: This joint statement was written by editors of the JOREL, JOEE, JAEOL, and JEE to produce guidance for research reporting across these journal platforms. Findings/Conclusions: The associations’ recommendations for reporting qualitative and quantitative research should be considered as guidance for submitting future empirical manuscripts to the JOREL, JOEE, JAEOL, and JEE. Implications: Authors, reviewers, and readers should consult this essay for guidelines on reporting, reviewing, and reading research in the above journals.
Incidence of Nerve Injury After Extremity Trauma in the United States
Authors: Padovano William M. , Dengler Jana , Patterson Megan M. , Yee Andrew , Snyder-Warwick Alison K. , Wood Matthew D. , Moore Amy M. , Mackinnon Susan E.
Published: October 2020

Background

Traumatic peripheral nerve injuries cause chronic pain, disability, and long-term reductions in quality of life. However, their incidence after extremity trauma remains poorly understood.

Methods

The IBM® MarketScan® Commercial Database from 2010 to 2015 was used to identify patients aged 18 to 64 who presented to emergency departments for upper and/or lower extremity traumas. Cumulative incidences were calculated for nerve injuries diagnosed within 2 years of trauma. Cox regression models were developed to evaluate the associations between upper extremity nerve injury and chronic pain, disability, and use of physical therapy or occupational therapy.

Results

The final cohort consisted of 1 230 362 patients with employer-sponsored health plans. Nerve injuries were diagnosed in 2.6% of upper extremity trauma patients and 1.2% of lower extremity trauma patients. Only 9% and 38% of nerve injuries were diagnosed by the time of emergency department and hospital discharge, respectively. Patients with nerve injuries were more likely to be diagnosed with chronic pain (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.9, 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.3-8.2), use physical therapy services (HR: 10.7, 95% CI, 8.8-13.1), and use occupational therapy services (HR: 19.2, 95% CI, 15.4-24.0) more than 90 days after injury.

Conclusions

The incidence of nerve injury in this national cohort was higher than previously reported. A minority of injuries were diagnosed by emergency department or hospital discharge. These findings may improve practitioner awareness and inform public health interventions for injury prevention.
Effect of once-daily fluticasone furoate/vilanterol versus vilanterol alone on bone mineral density in patients with COPD: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Maltais Francois , Schenkenberger Isabelle , Wielders Pascal L. M. L. , Ortiz de Saracho Juan , Chinsky Kenneth , Watkins Michael , Millar Valerie , Crim Courtney
Published: October 2020

Background:

The relationship between inhaled corticosteroids and bone mineral density (BMD) remains uncertain despite extensive research.

Methods:

This was an international, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, 3-year noninferiority study. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (⩾40 years of age; smoking history ⩾10 pack years) and at least one native hip evaluable for BMD were enrolled and randomized 1:1, stratified by sex, to treatment with vilanterol (VI) 25 µg or fluticasone furoate/vilanterol (FF/VI) 100 µg/25 µg. BMD measurements were taken via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry every 6 months. The primary endpoint was assessment of the noninferiority of change from baseline in total hip BMD per year at the −1% noninferiority level. Change from baseline in BMD at the lumbar spine and BMD measurements by sex were secondary endpoints. Incidences of COPD exacerbations and bone fractures throughout the study were also recorded.

Results:

Of 283 randomized patients, 170 (60%) completed the study. Noninferiority was demonstrated for FF/VI versus VI with regards to change from baseline in total hip BMD per year, with changes of −0.27% and 0.18%, respectively, and a treatment difference of −0.46% per year [95% confidence interval (CI) −0.97 to 0.06]. The treatment difference for FF/VI versus VI regarding lumbar spine BMD was −0.51% per year (95% CI −1.11 to 0.10). COPD exacerbations and bone fracture rates were similar between treatment groups.

Conclusion:

FF/VI showed noninferiority to VI for change from baseline in total hip BMD per year, when assessed at the −1% noninferiority margin in a combined sample of men and women with COPD. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
A rare solitary and endobronchial pulmonary hyalinising granuloma requiring bilobectomy
Authors: Smelt Jeremy LC , Madden Brendan , Du Parcq John , Hunt Ian
Published: October 2020

Pulmonary hyalinising granuloma is a very rare disease often presenting as multiple smooth rounded nodules within the lung parenchyma and mimicking metastatic disease. Solitary pulmonary hyalinising granuloma is an even rarer subgroup, and to our knowledge, there have been no endoluminal pulmonary hyalinising granulomas reported. A 36-year-old female non-smoker with no significant past medical history presented with a persistent cough and was found to have a right lower lobe bronchial lesion causing lower lobe obstruction. After multiple failed attempts at tissue diagnosis from both percutaneous and endobronchial biopsies, and with worsening haemoptysis, the patient underwent a right thoracotomy and lower bilobectomy. The histopathology was reported as a solitary endobronchial pulmonary hyalinising granuloma. Although benign in nature, tissue diagnosis can be difficult in these lesions, especially when presenting as a solitary mass in a central location. This report demonstrates that these lesions can also be found endobronchially necessitating parenchymal resection for diagnosis and obstructive symptoms.
Towards rule-based institutions and economic growth in Asia? Evidence from the Asian Financial Crisis 1997–1998
Authors: Chung Kee Hoon
Published: October 2020

Due to the severity of the Asian Financial Crisis 1997–1998, South Korea, Indonesia, and Thailand resorted to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout. In exchange, the IMF demanded a series of reforms intended to promote rule-based institutions generally found in advanced Western economies, such as the rule of law. Using panel data analysis from 1982 to 2007, we test empirically whether judicial independence, one of the more fundamental rule-based institutions, can positively explain the growth of these countries after the crisis, and find the impact of reforms to be limited. To understand why, we use South Korea as an example to show that top-down reforms by the government prevented a shift towards a rule-based economy. Due to the government selectively bailing out big businesses, big businesses that survived the crisis captured market shares once owned by the dissolved big businesses, becoming too powerful for the government to regulate. This research uses Soifer’s theoretical framework on critical junctures.
Grief and Loss Associated With Stroke Recovery: A Qualitative Study of Stroke Survivors and Their Spousal Caregivers
Authors: Hughes Anne K , Cummings Cristy E
Published: October 2020

Despite a focus on physical and cognitive outcomes, stroke survivors are also impacted by emotional and mental health challenges. Additionally, their caregivers may experience decreased well-being due to increased burden and role adjustment. A small body of literature characterizes this experience as a form of grief and loss. This study seeks to explore experiences of grief and loss reported by stroke survivors and caregivers, using Holbrook’s 4-stage bereavement model. This cross-sectional, qualitative study was conducted among adult stroke survivors (n = 9) and their spousal caregivers (n = 5). Focus groups on experiences of recent hospitalizations and transitions home were transcribed, coded, and thematic analysis was conducted, identifying a major theme of loss. Data were reanalyzed guided by Holbrook’s model. Common themes were losses and changes experienced by patients/caregivers, disbelief, and lack of understanding. Subthemes of denial and confusion were present. Less prevalent themes were loss of existing support systems and silver lining. Stroke survivors and caregivers experienced a range of negative emotions, impacting behaviors, self-perception, roles, and social support. Awareness of these issues can improve practice with those affected by stroke.
Wohin geht die Assessment-Center-Entwicklung?
Authors: Veil Cornelia
Published: October 2020

Seit das Manager Assessment Center (AC) im deutschsprachigen Raum Eingang gefunden hat, gibt es vielfältige Versuche, offenkundig werdende Schwächen zu beseitigen. Zielsetzung, Inhalt und soziale Validität variieren dabei immer mehr. Jeweils neuauftretende, ‘ungeplante’ Reaktionen seitens der am AC Beteiligten lassen alle Bemühungen, eine optimale Endlösung zu finden, fragwürdig werden.

Unsere hier vorgelegte Übersicht der klassischen AC-Prinzipen, ihrer Kritiker und der Verbesserungsversuche lassen einen schrittweisen Wandel im ursprüglichen AC-Verständnis erkennen: Praxis und Forschung tendieren tastend zu einem systemischen und konstruktivistischen Manager Assessment-Konzept. Hier liegt ein Ansatz, den Rahmen der vorherrschenden Mehr-Desselben-Forschung zu erweitern.
Site-Specific DNA Demethylation as a Potential Target for Cancer Epigenetic Therapy
Authors: Neja Sultan Abda
Published: October 2020

Aberrant promoter DNA hypermethylation is a typical characteristic of cancer and it is often seen in malignancies. Recent studies showed that regulatory cis-elements found up-stream of many tumor suppressor gene promoter CpG island (CGI) attract DNA methyltransferases (DNMT) that hypermethylates and silence the genes. As epigenetic alterations are potentially reversible, they make attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. The currently used decitabine (DAC) and azacitidine (AZA) are DNMT inhibitors that follow the passive demethylation pathway. However, they lead to genome-wide demethylation of CpGs in cells, which makes difficult to use it for causal effect analysis and treatment of specific epimutations. Demethylation through specific demethylase enzymes is thus critical for epigenetic resetting of silenced genes and modified chromatins. Yet DNA-binding factors likely play a major role to guide the candidate demethylase enzymes upon its fusion. Before the advent of clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), both zinc finger proteins (ZNFs) and transcription activator-like effector protein (TALEs) were used as binding platforms for ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes and both systems were able to induce transcription at targeted loci in an in vitro as well as in vivo model. Consequently, the development of site-specific and active demethylation molecular trackers becomes more than hypothetical to makes a big difference in the treatment of cancer in the future. This review is thus to recap the novel albeit distinct studies on the potential use of site-specific demethylation for the development of epigenetic based cancer therapy.
Differential gene regulatory pattern in the human brain from schizophrenia using transcriptomic-causal network
Authors: Yazdani Akram , Mendez-Giraldez Raul , Yazdani Azam , Kosorok Michael R. , Roussos Panos
Published: October 2020

Background

Common and complex traits are the consequence of the interaction and regulation of multiple genes simultaneously, therefore characterizing the interconnectivity of genes is essential to unravel the underlying biological networks. However, the focus of many studies is on the differential expression of individual genes or on co-expression analysis.

Methods

Going beyond analysis of one gene at a time, we systematically integrated transcriptomics, genotypes and Hi-C data to identify interconnectivities among individual genes as a causal network. We utilized different machine learning techniques to extract information from the network and identify differential regulatory pattern between cases and controls. We used data from the Allen Brain Atlas for replication.

Results

Employing the integrative systems approach on the data from CommonMind Consortium showed that gene transcription is controlled by genetic variants proximal to the gene (cis-regulatory factors), and transcribed distal genes (trans-regulatory factors). We identified differential gene regulatory patterns in SCZ-cases versus controls and novel SCZ-associated genes that may play roles in the disorder since some of them are primary expressed in human brain. In addition, we observed genes known associated with SCZ are not likely (OR = 0.59) to have high impacts (degree > 3) on the network.

Conclusions

Causal networks could reveal underlying patterns and the role of genes individually and as a group. Establishing principles that govern relationships between genes provides a mechanistic understanding of the dysregulated gene transcription patterns in SCZ and creates more efficient experimental designs for further studies. This information cannot be obtained by studying a single gene at the time.
Predicting MiRNA-disease associations by multiple meta-paths fusion graph embedding model
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Bailong , Li Zhengwei , Zhu Xiaoyan , Liang Zhizhen , An Jiyong
Published: October 2020

Background

Many studies prove that miRNAs have significant roles in diagnosing and treating complex human diseases. However, conventional biological experiments are too costly and time-consuming to identify unconfirmed miRNA-disease associations. Thus, computational models predicting unidentified miRNA-disease pairs in an efficient way are becoming promising research topics. Although existing methods have performed well to reveal unidentified miRNA-disease associations, more work is still needed to improve prediction performance.

Results

In this work, we present a novel multiple meta-paths fusion graph embedding model to predict unidentified miRNA-disease associations (M2GMDA). Our method takes full advantage of the complex structure and rich semantic information of miRNA-disease interactions in a self-learning way. First, a miRNA-disease heterogeneous network was derived from verified miRNA-disease pairs, miRNA similarity and disease similarity. All meta-path instances connecting miRNAs with diseases were extracted to describe intrinsic information about miRNA-disease interactions. Then, we developed a graph embedding model to predict miRNA-disease associations. The model is composed of linear transformations of miRNAs and diseases, the means encoder of a single meta-path instance, the attention-aware encoder of meta-path type and attention-aware multiple meta-path fusion. We innovatively integrated meta-path instances, meta-path based neighbours, intermediate nodes in meta-paths and more information to strengthen the prediction in our model. In particular, distinct contributions of different meta-path instances and meta-path types were combined with attention mechanisms. The data sets and source code that support the findings of this study are available athttps://github.com/dangdangzhang/M2GMDA.

Conclusions

M2GMDA achieved AUCs of 0.9323 and 0.9182 in global leave-one-out cross validation and fivefold cross validation with HDMM V2.0. The results showed that our method outperforms other prediction methods. Three kinds of case studies with lung neoplasms, breast neoplasms, prostate neoplasms, pancreatic neoplasms, lymphoma and colorectal neoplasms demonstrated that 47, 50, 49, 48, 50 and 50 out of the top 50 candidate miRNAs predicted by M2GMDA were validated by biological experiments. Therefore, it further confirms the prediction performance of our method.
MetaLAFFA: a flexible, end-to-end, distributed computing-compatible metagenomic functional annotation pipeline
Authors: Eng Alexander , Verster Adrian J. , Borenstein Elhanan
Published: October 2020

Background

Microbial communities have become an important subject of research across multiple disciplines in recent years. These communities are often examined via shotgun metagenomic sequencing, a technology which can offer unique insights into the genomic content of a microbial community. Functional annotation of shotgun metagenomic data has become an increasingly popular method for identifying the aggregate functional capacities encoded by the community’s constituent microbes. Currently available metagenomic functional annotation pipelines, however, suffer from several shortcomings, including limited pipeline customization options, lack of standard raw sequence data pre-processing, and insufficient capabilities for integration with distributed computing systems.

Results

Here we introduce MetaLAFFA, a functional annotation pipeline designed to take unfiltered shotgun metagenomic data as input and generate functional profiles. MetaLAFFA is implemented as a Snakemake pipeline, which enables convenient integration with distributed computing clusters, allowing users to take full advantage of available computing resources. Default pipeline settings allow new users to run MetaLAFFA according to common practices while a Python module-based configuration system provides advanced users with a flexible interface for pipeline customization. MetaLAFFA also generates summary statistics for each step in the pipeline so that users can better understand pre-processing and annotation quality.

Conclusions

MetaLAFFA is a new end-to-end metagenomic functional annotation pipeline with distributed computing compatibility and flexible customization options. MetaLAFFA source code is available at https://github.com/borenstein-lab/MetaLAFFA and can be installed via Conda as described in the accompanying documentation.
De novo transcriptome assembly from the gonads of a scleractinian coral, Euphyllia ancora: molecular mechanisms underlying scleractinian gametogenesis
Authors: Chiu Yi-Ling , Shikina Shinya , Yoshioka Yuki , Shinzato Chuya , Chang Ching-Fong
Published: October 2020

Background

Sexual reproduction of scleractinians has captured the attention of researchers and the general public for decades. Although extensive ecological data has been acquired, underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, to better understand mechanisms underlying gametogenesis, we isolated ovaries and testes at different developmental phases from a gonochoric coral, Euphyllia ancora, and adopted a transcriptomic approach to reveal sex- and phase-specific gene expression profiles. In particular, we explored genes associated with oocyte development and maturation, spermiogenesis, sperm motility / capacitation, and fertilization.

Results

1.6 billion raw reads were obtained from 24 gonadal samples. De novo assembly of trimmed reads, and elimination of contigs derived from symbiotic dinoflagellates (Symbiodiniaceae) and other organisms yielded a reference E. ancora gonadal transcriptome of 35,802 contigs. Analysis of 4 developmental phases identified 2023 genes that were differentially expressed during oogenesis and 678 during spermatogenesis. In premature/mature ovaries, 631 genes were specifically upregulated, with 538 in mature testes. Upregulated genes included those involved in gametogenesis, gamete maturation, sperm motility / capacitation, and fertilization in other metazoans, including humans. Meanwhile, a large number of genes without homology to sequences in the SWISS-PROT database were also observed among upregulated genes in premature / mature ovaries and mature testes.

Conclusions

Our findings show that scleractinian gametogenesis shares many molecular characteristics with that of other metazoans, but it also possesses unique characteristics developed during cnidarian and/or scleractinian evolution. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to create a gonadal transcriptome assembly from any scleractinian. This study and associated datasets provide a foundation for future studies regarding gametogenesis and differences between male and female colonies from molecular and cellular perspectives. Furthermore, our transcriptome assembly will be a useful reference for future development of sex-specific and/or stage-specific germ cell markers that can be used in coral aquaculture and ecological studies.
Influence of inoculated gut bacteria on the development of Bactrocera dorsalis and on its susceptibility to the entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae
Authors: Gichuhi Joseph , Khamis Fathiya , Van den Berg Johnnie , Mohamed Samira , Ekesi Sunday , Herren Jeremy K.
Published: October 2020

Background

Symbiotic interactions between insects and bacteria have been associated with a vast variety of physiological, ecological and evolutionary consequences for the host. A wide range of bacterial communities have been found in association with the oriental fruit fly,Bactrocera dorsalis(Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), an important pest of cultivated fruit in most regions of the world. We evaluated the diversity of gut bacteria inB. dorsalisspecimens from several populations in Kenya and investigated the roles of individual bacterial isolates in the development of axenic (germ-free)B. dorsalisfly lines and their responses to the entomopathogenic fungus,Metarhizium anisopliae.

Results

We sequenced 16S rRNA to evaluate microbiomes and coupled this with bacterial culturing. Bacterial isolates were mono-associated with axenicB. dorsalisembryos. The shortest embryonic development period was recorded in flies with an intact gut microbiome while the longest period was recorded in axenic fly lines. Similarly, larval development was shortest in flies with an intact gut microbiome, in addition to flies inoculated withProvidencia alcalifaciens.AdultB. dorsalisflies emerging from embryos that had been mono-associated with a strain ofLactococcus lactishad decreased survival when challenged with a standard dosage ofM. anisopliaeICIPE69 conidia. However, there were no differences in survival between the germ-free lines and flies with an intact microbiome.

Conclusions

These findings will contribute to the selection of probiotics used in artificial diets forB. dorsalisrearing and the development of improved integrated pest management strategies based on entomopathogenic fungi.