bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Lizard Gut Microbiome Changes with Temperature and Is Associated with Heat Tolerance
Authors: Moeller Andrew H. , Ivey Kathleen , Cornwall Margaret B. , Herr Kathryn , Rede Jordan , Taylor Emily N. , Gunderson Alex R.
Published: June 2020

Gut microbial communities affect their animal hosts in numerous ways, motivating investigations of the factors that shape the gut microbiota and the consequences of gut microbiota variation for host traits. In this study, we tested the effects of increases in environmental temperatures on the gut microbiota of fence lizards, a vertebrate ectotherm threatened by warming climates. By monitoring lizards and their gut microbes during an experimental temperature treatment, we showed that the warming altered and destabilized the lizard gut microbiota. Moreover, measuring thermal performance of lizard hosts at the end of the experiment indicated that the composition of the gut microbiota was associated with host thermal tolerance. These results indicate that warming temperatures can alter the gut microbiota of vertebrate ectotherms and suggest relationships between variation in the gut microbiota and the thermal physiology of natural host populations.
Draft Genome Sequences of Bacillus glennii V44-8, Bacillus saganii V47-23a,
Bacillus
sp. Strain V59.32b,
Bacillus
sp. Strain MER_TA_151, and
Paenibacillus
sp. Strain MER_111, Isolated from Cleanrooms Where the Viking and Mars Exploration Rover Spacecraft Were Assembled
Authors: Becket Elinne , Johnson Keneshia O. , Burke Camille J. , Clark Jasmin J. , Cohen Marcus J. S. , Coil David A. , Eggleston Courtney A. , Farmer Tyesha L. , Farr Tiffany R. , Hernandez Sophia M. , Jaureguy Jeff P. , Jospin Guillaume , Khan Afshin , Lee Michael D. , McKee Lauren N. , O’Brien Erin M. , Read Betsy A. , Saisho Roxane , Seuylemezian Arman , Serrato-Arroyo Sergio S. , Steinecke Dylan , Vaishampayan Parag
Published: June 2020

We report the draft genome sequences of
Bacillus glennii
V44-8,
Bacillus saganii
V47-23a, and
Bacillus
sp. strain V59.32b, isolated from the Viking spacecraft assembly cleanroom, and
Bacillus
sp. strain MER_TA_151 and
Paenibacillus
sp. strain MER_111, isolated from the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) assembly cleanroom.
Complete Genome Sequences of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates Subjected to 200 Continuous Passages
Authors: Vera-Cabrera Lucio , Molina-Torres Carmen A. , Lopez-Ortiz Jose Marco , Castro-Garza Jorge , Cordova-Fletes Carlos , Ocampo-Candiani Jorge
Published: June 2020

We report 6 draft genome sequences corresponding to
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
H37Rv and
M. tuberculosis
DR689, a Beijing isolate, plus their counterparts subjected to 200 continuous passages in Middlebrook 7H9 broth, either alone or with ox bile.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Bacteroides fragilis Strain Isolated from Peritoneal Fluid of a Patient from Kazakhstan
Authors: Zholdybayeva Elena , Kozhakhmetova Saniya , Atavliyeva Sabina , Tarlykov Pavel , Ramankulov Yerlan
Published: June 2020

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Bacteroides fragilis
strain KZ02, isolated from a patient with peritonitis hospitalized in a health facility in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan. The genome of the strain contains 4,103 protein-coding genes, including the
cepA
gene, which causes resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Pseudomonas
sp. Strain SK, Isolated from Organic Wheat Rhizosphere
Authors: Khatri Shivani , Sazinas Pavelas , Shivay Yashbir S. , Sharma Shilpi , Jelsbak Lars
Published: June 2020

Here, we report the annotated whole-genome sequence of
Pseudomonas
sp. strain SK, isolated in India from organic wheat rhizosphere. This strain has proved to be a species with potential biocontrol activity against soilborne plant pathogens based on antiSMASH analysis.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. Strain I05A-00742, Isolated in Shangri-La, China
Authors: Li Xingxing , He Wei , Sun Hongmin , Shi Yuanyuan , Zhang Xiumin , Xie Yunying , Wang Li , Hong Bin
Published: June 2020

Streptomyces
sp. strain I05A-00742 was isolated from a soil sample in Napahai in Shangri-La, Yunnan Province, China. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. I05A-00742, which consists of an assembly size of 7,129,054 bp in 105 scaffolds with a G+C content of 72.43%.
Complete Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain AA2 (LMG 27630), an Early Isolate Recovered from the Airway of a German Cystic Fibrosis Patient
Authors: Sass Andrea , Coenye Tom
Published: June 2020

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is an opportunistic pathogen that is able to cause various infections, including airway infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Here, we present the complete closed and annotated genome sequence of
P. aeruginosa
AA2, an isolate obtained early during infection of the respiratory tract of a German cystic fibrosis patient.
Adherence to ophthalmology referral, treatment and follow-up after diabetic retinopathy screening in the primary care setting
Authors: Bresnick George , Cuadros Jorge A , Khan Mahbuba , Fleischmann Sybille , Wolff Gregory , Limon Andrea , Chang Jenny , Jiang Luohua , Cuadros Pablo , Pedersen Elin Rønby
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Telemedicine-based diabetic retinopathy screening (DRS) in primary care settings has increased the screening rates of patients with diabetes. However, blindness from vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (VTDR) is a persistent problem. This study examined the extent of patients’ adherence to postscreening recommendations.

Research design/methods

A retrospective record review was conducted in primary care clinics of a large county hospital in the USA. All patients with diabetes detected with VTDR in two time periods, differing in record type used, were included in the study: 2012–2014, paper charts only; 2015–2017, combined paper charts/electronic medical records (EMRs), or EMRs only. Adherence rates for keeping initial ophthalmology appointments, starting recommended treatments, and keeping follow-up appointments were determined.

Results

Adequate records were available for 6046 patients; 408 (7%) were detected with VTDR and recommended for referral to ophthalmology. Only 5% completed a first ophthalmology appointment within recommended referral interval, 15% within twice the recommended interval, and 51% within 1 year of DRS. Patients screened in 2015–2017 were more likely to complete a first ophthalmology appointment than those in 2012–2014. Ophthalmic treatment was recommended in half of the patients, of whom 94% initiated treatment. A smaller percentage (41%) adhered completely to post-treatment follow-up. Overall, 28% of referred patients: (1) kept a first ophthalmology appointment; (2) were recommended for treatment; and (3) initiated the treatment. Most patients failing to keep first ophthalmology appointments continued non-ophthalmic medical care at the institution. EMRs provided more complete information than paper charts.

Conclusions

Reducing vision impairment from VTDR requires greater emphasis on timely adherence to ophthalmology referral and follow-up. Prevention of visual loss from VTDR starts with retinopathy screening, but must include patient engagement, adherence monitoring, and streamlining ophthalmic referral and management. Revision of these processes has already been implemented at the study site, incorporating lessons from this investigation.
Occupational therapist-led mindfulness-based stress reduction for older adults living with subjective cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment in primary care: a feasibility randomised control trial protocol
Authors: Tran Todd , Donnelly Catherine , Nalder Emily Joan , Trothen Tracy , Finlayson Marcia
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Community-dwelling older adults living with subjective cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment may experience decreased efficiency in their overall functional performance. This decreased cognitive efficiency may result in anxiety, low mood, perceived stress and decreased emotional well-being and quality-of-life. These psychological symptoms may further exacerbate cognitive decline.

Exploring non-pharmacological interventions such as mindfulness within primary care is vital in enabling individuals to develop strategies to manage cognitive impairment or psychological symptoms. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is an 8-week programme that is beneficial in alleviating psychological symptoms; however, its impact on perceived satisfaction on overall functional performance with this population has not been evaluated. The primary objective of this study is to explore the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial of an occupational therapist-led MBSR programme within primary care.

Methods

Convergent mixed-methods, randomised control feasibility trial with 40 participants from an interprofessional primary care team in Toronto, Ontario. Participants are randomised into the 8-week MBSR group or wait-list control will be compared at baseline, postintervention and 4weeks follow-up. The primary aim is to determine the feasibility of the intervention with this population and setting. The secondary aim is to examine perceived satisfaction with functional performance as measured by the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Secondary clinical outcomes include psychological symptoms.

Analysis

Investigators will analyse the quantitative and qualitative data strands separately. Descriptive statistics, focus group and interviews will then be merged and further analysed to best understand the feasibility and preliminary clinical outcomes from the study.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by Women’s College Hospital (2017–0056-E), and Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario (6026418). The study will follow Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials. The results will be published in peer-reviewed academic journals and disseminated to patient organisations and media.

Trial registration number

NCT03867474; Pre-results.
Study protocol for the ABERRANT study: antibiotic-induced disruption of the maternal and infant microbiome and adverse health outcomes — a prospective cohort study among children born at term
Authors: Volery Maryse , Scherz Valentin , Jakob William , Bandeira Diane , Deggim-Messmer Vanessa , Lauber-Biason Anna , Wildhaber Johannes , Falquet Laurent , Curtis Nigel , Zimmermann Petra
Published: June 2020

Introduction

There is compositional overlap between the maternal intestinal microbiome, the breast milk microbiome and the infant oral and intestinal microbiome. Antibiotics cause profound changes in the microbiome. However, the effect of intrapartum and early-life antibiotics on the maternal intestinal and breast milk microbiome, and the infant oral and intestinal microbiome, and whether effects are only short term or persist long term remain uncertain.

Methods and analyses

In this prospective cohort study, we will use metagenomic sequencing to determine: (1) the effect of intrapartum antibiotics on the composition of the breast milk, and the infant oral and intestinal microbiome, including the development and persistence of antibiotic resistance; (2) the effect of antibiotic exposure in the first year of life on the composition of the infant oral and intestinal microbiome, including the development and persistence of antibiotic resistance; (3) the effect of disruption of the infant oral and intestinal microbiome on health outcomes and (4) the compositional overlap between the maternal intestinal microbiome, the breast milk microbiome and the infant oral and intestinal microbiome.

Ethics and dissemination

The ABERRANT study has been approved by the commission cantonale d’éthique de la recherche sur l’être humain (CER-VD) du Canton de Vaud (#2019–01567). Outcomes will be disseminated through publication and will be presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04091282.
Association between fasting blood glucose and outcomes and mortality in acute ischaemic stroke patients with diabetes mellitus: a retrospective observational study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Yao Tao , Zhan Yanqiang , Shen Jing , Xu Lu , Peng Bo , Cui Qin , Liu Zhichao
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the predictive value of fasting blood glucose (FBG) on unfavourable outcomes and mortality in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients after acute ischaemic stroke (AIS).

Study design

A hospital-based observational cohort study was conducted. Clinical data, including sex, age, body mass index, vascular risk factors and systolic/diastolic blood pressure, were routinely collected. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was used to assess stroke severity on admission. FBG was determined on the first day after fasting for at least 8 hours. The modified Rankin Scale was used to assess functional outcome at 90 days: 3–6, unfavourable outcome and 6, death.

Setting

Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.

Participants

Patients who had AIS with DM, who were consecutively admitted within 24 hours of onset from January 2018 to June 2019.

Results

For the 568 patients, the median age was 65 years (IQR, 55–74 years). There were 377 (66.4%) men. The median FBG values were 7.37 mmol/L (IQR, 5.99–10.10 mmol/L), and the median glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) values were 6.6 (IQR, 5.8–8.3). Multivariable logistic and Cox regression analysis of confounding factors showed that FBG at the time of admission was an independent predictor of unfavourable outcome (OR, 1.25 (1.14–1.37); p<0.0001) and mortality (HR, 1.10 (1.03–1.15); p<0.05) at 90 days after onset. Time to death was analysed by Kaplan-Meier curves based on FBG quartiles. The risk of death in the two highest quartile groups (FBG, 7.38–10.10 mmol/L; FBG, ≥10.11 mmol/L) was significantly higher than that in the two lowest quartile groups (FBG, ≤6.00 mmol/L; FBG, 6.01–7.37 mmol/L; p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Higher FBG levels are associated with unfavourable outcomes and mortality in Chinese patients who had AIS with DM. Our data contribute to the knowledge regarding the relationship between FBG and prognosis in patients with DM who had AIS.
OASIS—a randomised, placebo-controlled trial of oral glucocorticoids for leg pain in patients with acute sciatica: trial protocol
Authors: Liu Chang , Abdel Shaheed Christina , McLachlan Andrew J , Latimer Jane , Li Qiang , Buchbinder Rachelle , Day Richard O , Maher Christopher G , Richards Bethan , Oliveira Juliana S , Lin Chung-Wei Christine
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Sciatica is a lower spine condition characterised by radiating leg pain below the knee. It may be accompanied by motor and sensory loss in the distribution of a spinal nerve. There are few effective treatments for sciatica. Orally administered glucocorticoids have shown some promise, however, any beneficial effects need to be confirmed and weighed against drug safety and cost-effectiveness, in a high-quality, definitive trial.

Methods and analysis

The Oral Steroids In Sciatica (OASIS) trial is a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial that will evaluate a tapering regimen of oral prednisolone in 200 participants with acute sciatica. Participants will be recruited on presentation to general practice, specialist outpatient clinics or hospital emergency departments and randomised to receive orally administered prednisolone 50 mg per day, up to 3 days then tapering to cessation over 10 days, or placebo, for a maximum of 13 days, in addition to guideline advice. Participants will be followed for 1 year. The primary endpoint will be leg pain intensity at 2 weeks. Secondary outcomes will include back pain intensity, disability, time to recovery, quality of life and treatment success rate. Adverse events will be assessed and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be conducted.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted from the Human Research Ethics Committee, The University of Sydney. Trial results will be disseminated by publications and conference presentations and via the media.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12619001716156.
Development of quality indicators for departments of hospital-based physiotherapy: a modified Delphi study
Authors: Steenbruggen Rudi A , van Oorsouw Roel , Maas Marjo , Hoogeboom Thomas J , Brand Paul , Wees Philip van der
Published: June 2020

Background

International hospital accreditation instruments, such as Joint Commission International (JCI) and Qmentum, focus mainly on hospital policy and procedures and do not specifically cover a profession such as hospital-based physiotherapy. This justifies the need for a quality system to which hospital-based physiotherapy can better identify, based on a common framework of quality indicators for effective quality management.

Objective

This study aimed to identify the most important quality indicators of a hospital-based physiotherapy department in the eyes of hospital-based physiotherapists and their managers.

Methods

Based on input from three focus groups and a structured literature review, a first set of quality indicators for hospital physiotherapy was assembled. After checking this set for duplicates and for overlap with JCI and Qmentum, it formed the starting point of a modified Delphi procedure. In two rounds, 17 hospital-based physiotherapy experts rated the quality indicators on relevance through online surveys. In a final consensus meeting, quality indicators were established, classified in quality themes and operationalised by describing for each theme the rationale, specifications, domain and type of indicator.

Results

Three focus groups provided 120 potential indicators, which were complemented with 18 potential indicators based on literature. After duplicate and overlap check and the Delphi procedure, these 138 potential indicators were reduced to a set of 56 quality indicators for hospital-based physiotherapy. Finally, these 56 indicators were condensed into 7 composite indicators, each representing a quality theme based on definitions of the European Foundation for Quality Management.

Conclusion

A set of 56 quality indicators, condensed into 7 composite indicators each representing a quality theme, was developed to assess the quality of a hospital-based physiotherapy department.
The ACS-TQIP palliative care guidelines at two level I trauma centres: a prospective study of patient and caregiver satisfaction
Authors: Vogel Rebecca , McGraw Constance , Redmond Diane , Bourg (retired) Pamela , Dreiman Chester , Tanner Allen , Lynch Neal , Bar-Or David
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To measure trauma patient and caregiver satisfaction before and after implementation of standardised palliative care (PC) guidelines.

Methods

Prospective pre–post study at two level-I trauma centres. PC satisfaction surveys were administered prior to discharge for consented trauma patients (Family Satisfaction with Advanced Cancer Scale, Patient (FAMCARE-P13) survey)≥55 years, and their caregivers (FAMCARE survey), from 1 November 2016 to 30 November 2018. Standardised PC guidelines were implemented January 2018 and included consultations, prognostication assessments, identification of proxies, review of advanced directives and do not resuscitate orders within 24 hours of admission, while advanced goals of care, formal family meetings and spiritual care support were recommended within 72 hours of admission. Generalised linear models were used to determine whether differences in patient or caregiver satisfaction existed pre versus post implementation.

Results

There were 572 patients (299 pre; 273 post) and 595 caregivers (334 pre; 261 post) included. Overall patient satisfaction significantly increased post implementation (82.0 vs 86.0, p=0.001). After adjustment, the implementation of the guidelines was an independent predictor of higher overall patient satisfaction (least squares mean (LSM= (83.8% (95%CI 81.2%-86.5%) vs 80.3% (77.7%-82.9%), p=0.003)). Compared with preimplementation, patient satisfaction was significantly higher post implementation in the following domains: information giving (80.9 vs 85.5, p=0.001), followed by physical care (82.2 vs 86.0, p=0.002), availability of care (83.4 vs 86.8, p=0.007) and psychosocial care (84.7 vs 87.6, p=0.04). No significant differences in caregiver satisfaction were found before or after adjustment (LSMpre: 83.1% (95%CI 80.9%-85.3%) vs. post: 82.4% (80.3%-84.5%), p=0.56))

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the implementation of PC guidelines significantly improved patient satisfaction following traumatic injury, while maintaining robust caregiver satisfaction.
Incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease in Devon, UK
Authors: Hamilton Ben , Green Harry , Heerasing Neel , Hendy Peter , Moore Lucy , Chanchlani Neil , Walker Gareth , Bewshea Claire , Kennedy Nicholas A , Ahmad Tariq , Goodhand James
Published: June 2020

Background and aims

We sought to define temporal changes in prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in East Devon, UK, in order to facilitate service planning over the next 5 years.

Methods

Multiple primary and secondary care databases were used to identify and verify cases. Point prevalence and incidence of IBD were reported in April 2017 and from 2008 to 2016, respectively. Future prevalence and healthcare activity requirements were estimated by linear regression.

Results

Prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC), Crohn’s disease (CD) and inflammatory bowel disease unclassified (IBDU) were 479.72, 265.94 and 35.34 per 100 000 persons, respectively. In 2016, the incidence rates of UC, CD and IBDU were 15.4, 10.7 and 1.4 per 100 000 persons per year, respectively. There were no significant changes in the incidence of CD (p=0.49, R=0.26) or UC (p=0.80, R=0.10). IBD prevalence has increased by 39.9% (95% CI 28.2 to 53.7) in the last 10 years without differences in the rate of change between UC and CD. Overall, 27% of patients were managed in primary care, a quarter of whom were eligible but not receiving endoscopic surveillance. Outpatient clinics, MRI and biologic use, but not helpline calls, admissions, or surgeries increased over and above the change in IBD prevalence.

Conclusions

We report one of the highest prevalence and incidence rates of IBD from Northern Europe. Overall, IBD incidence is static, but prevalence is increasing. We estimate that 1% of our population will live with IBD between 2025 and 2030.
Implications of recurrent SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks for IBD management
Authors: Segal Jonathan P , Moss Alan C
Published: June 2020

The initial phases of the global SARS-CoV2 pandemic had significant implications for the management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This impact is likely to be sustained and far-reaching across all models of care. Initial questions about the risk of SARS-CoV2 infection, and COVID-19 complications, in patients taking maintenance anti-TNFs, JAK inhibitors and other immune modulators have preliminary data. Current models for SARS-CoV-2 transmission predict intermittent outbreaks until 2022, which could disrupt clinical care and negatively affect outcomes for many patients across the globe. This review summarises changes in IBD clinical practice that will be required during the ‘post-peak’ phase of viral pandemics.
National census of UK endoscopy services in 2019
Authors: Ravindran Srivathsan , Bassett Paul , Shaw Tim , Dron Michael , Broughton Raphael , Johnston Debbie , Healey Chris J , Green John , Ashrafian Hutan , Darzi Ara , Coleman Mark , Thomas-Gibson Siwan
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The 2017 Joint Advisory Group on Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy (JAG) census highlighted the pressure endoscopy services were under in meeting national targets and the factors behind this. In 2019, JAG conducted a further national census of endoscopy services to understand trends in activity, workforce and waiting time targets.

Methods

In April 2019, the census was sent to all eligible JAG-registered services. Collated data were analysed through various statistical methods. A further comparative dataset was created using available submissions from the 2017 census matched to services in the current census.

Results

There was a 68% response rate (322/471). There has been a 12%–15% increase in activity across all GI procedures with largest increases in bowel cancer screening. Fewer services are meeting waiting time targets compared with 2017, with endoscopist, nursing and physical capacity cited as the main reasons. Services are striving to improve capacity: 80% of services have an agreed business plan to meet capacity and the number using insourcing has increased from 13% to 20%. The workforce has increased, with endoscopist numbers increasing by 15%, nurses and allied health professionals by 14% and clerical staff by 30%.

Conclusions

The 2019 JAG census is the most recent and extensive survey of UK endoscopy services. There is a clear trend of increasing activity with fewer services able to meet national waiting time targets than 2 years ago. Services have increased their workforce and improved planning to stem the tide but there remains a continued pressure to deliver high quality, safe endoscopy. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, JAG recognises that these pressures will be severely exacerbated and waiting time targets for accreditation will need adjustment and tolerance during the evolution and recovery from the pandemic.
Small cell transformation of non-small cell lung cancer on immune checkpoint inhibitors: uncommon or under-recognized?
Authors: Sehgal Kartik , Varkaris Andreas , Viray Hollis , VanderLaan Paul A , Rangachari Deepa , Costa Daniel B
Published: June 2020

Background

Histological transformation of oncogene-driven lung adenocarcinoma to small cell lung cancer (SCLC) following treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is a well-described phenomenon. Whether a similar transformation may drive acquired resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPIs) in non-SCLC (NSCLC) is uncertain. Hence, tissue biopsies are not universally recommended at progression of NSCLC on ICPIs, unlike TKIs.

Case presentation

We report a case of a woman in her mid-60s with a 35 pack-years tobacco history and stage IV squamous cell lung carcinoma with no targetable genomic alterations, whose disease progressed within 4 months of first line carboplatin/gemcitabine therapy. Her treatment was switched to second line nivolumab monotherapy which resulted in sustained partial response lasting 21 months. She subsequently developed rapid, bulky progression of mediastinal disease. Biopsy showed transformation to SCLC. Comparison of genomic profiling results from the initial NSCLC diagnosis and SCLC transformation revealed near-identical tumor profiles. Her disease responded to next line carboplatin/etoposide, though lasting for only 10 months. She died 14 months after detection of neuroendocrine transformation of her NSCLC.

Systematic review

We performed a systematic review of the literature to identify similar cases of NSCLC-to-small cell transformation on ICPIs. Nine patients, including our index case, were identified, with seven (77.8%) on nivolumab and two (22.2%) on pembrolizumab monotherapy. Median survival time since small cell transformation was 13.0 months (95% CI 2.0 to 16.0). Using our patient case as a framework, we further discuss the lack of consensus criteria to distinguish small cell transformation from de novo metachronous SCLC.

Conclusions

Histological transformation to SCLC is a potential mechanism of acquired resistance to ICPIs in NSCLC. Repeat tissue biopsies should be considered at the time of progression, similar to oncogene-directed therapies. Prospective larger studies are warranted to further characterize NSCLC-to-small cell transformation on ICPIs using molecular fingerprinting with paired tumor genomic profiles, evaluation of neuroendocrine features at baseline and consideration of initial response.
Serum interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein are associated with survival in melanoma patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibition
Authors: Laino Andressa S , Woods David , Vassallo Melinda , Qian Xiaozhong , Tang Hao , Wind-Rotolo Megan , Weber Jeffrey
Published: June 2020

Background

Inflammatory mediators, including acute phase reactants and cytokines, have been reported to be associated with clinical efficacy in patients with melanoma and other cancers receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Analyses of patient sera from three large phase II/III randomized ICI trials, one of which included a chemotherapy arm, were performed to assess whether baseline levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) or neutrophil/lymphocyte (N/L) ratios were prognostic or predictive.

Patients and methods

Baseline and on-treatment sera were analyzed by multiplex protein assays from immunotherapy-naïve patients with metastatic melanoma randomized 1:1 on the Checkmate-064 phase II trial of sequential administration of nivolumab followed by ipilimumab or the reverse sequence. Baseline sera, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells using automated cell counting, were analyzed from treatment-naïve patients who were BRAF wild-type and randomly allocated 1:1 to receive nivolumab or dacarbazine on the phase III Checkmate-066 trial, and from treatment-naïve patients allocated 1:1:1 to receive nivolumab, ipilimumab or both ipilimumab and nivolumab on the phase III Checkmate-067 trial.

Results

Higher baseline levels of IL-6 and the N/L ratio, and to a lesser degree, CRP were associated with shorter survival in patients receiving ICI or chemotherapy. Increased on-treatment levels of IL-6 in patients on the Checkmate-064 study were also associated with shorter survival. IL-6 levels from patients on Checkmate-064, Checkmate-066 and Checkmate-067 were highly correlated with levels of CRP and the N/L ratio.

Conclusion

IL-6, CRP and the N/L ratio are prognostic factors with higher levels associated with shorter overall survival in patients with metastatic melanoma receiving ICI or chemotherapy in large randomized trials. In a multi-variable analysis of the randomized phase III Checkmate-067 study, IL-6 was a significant prognostic factor for survival.
Estimation du poids du fœtus zébu peulh à partir de mesures échographiques des paramètres fœtaux
Authors: Yamboué A.T. , Zongo M. , Traoré B. , Diallo O. , Hanzen C.
Published: June 2020

Cette étude vise à estimer le poids du fœtus zébu peulh à partir des mesures échographiques des diamètres de l’abdomen (DA), du bipariétal (DBP), du cordon ombilical (DCO), de la corne utérine (DCU) et des longueurs du fémur (LF), du tibia (LT), et du dos (LD). Elle a concerné soixante et un (n = 61) utérus gravides recueillis après abattage de femelles gestantes. Toutes les gestations étaient simples. Les examens ont été réalisés en bain d’eau au moyen d’une sonde convexe de 3,5 MHz. Les utérus ont été ensuite disséqués afin de rapporté le poids des fœtus au moyen d’une balance. Les données ont été analysées au moyen du système de régression curvilinéaire. Les formules d’estimation du poids à partir des paramètres biométriques ont été de type y = axb, où y est le poids (g), a et b_constantes, et x est le paramètre biomètrique (mm). Toutes les structures morphologiques étudiées ont présenté des corrélations positives et hautement significatives avec le poids du fœtus (p < 0,0001). Toutefois, les DA (R2 = 0,94), DBP (R2 = 0,80), et la LF (R2 = 0,81) semblent être les plus appropriés pour l’estimation du poids du fœtus. À défaut de ces paramètres, les autres structures étudiées peuvent servir de repère dans l’estimation du poids.
Modelling of unmanned aircraft visibility for see-and-avoid operations
Authors: Highland P. , Williams J. , Yazvec M. , Dideriksen A. , Corcoran N. , Woodruff K. , Thompson C. , Kirby L. , Chun E. , Kousheh H. , Stoltz J. , Schnell T.
Published: June 2020

With more unmanned aircraft (UA) becoming airborne each day, an already high manned aircraft to UA exposure rate continues to grow. Pilots and rulemaking authorities realize that UA visibility is a real, but unquantified, threat to operations under the see-and-avoid concept. To finally quantify the threat, a novel contrast-based UA visibility model is constructed here using collected empirical data as well as previous work on the factors affecting visibility. This work showed that UA visibility <1300 m makes a midair collision a serious threat if a manned aircraft and a UA are on a collision course while operating under the see-and-avoid concept. Similarly, this work also showed that a midair collision may be unavoidable when UA visibility is <400 m. Validating pilot and rulemaking authority concerns, this work demonstrated that UA visibility distances <1300 and <400 m occur often in the real world. Finally, the model produced UA visibility lookup tables that may prove useful to rulemaking authorities such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and International Civil Aviation Organization for future work in the proof of equivalency of detect and avoid operations. Until then, pilots flying at slower airspeeds in the vicinity of UA may improve safety margins.
A Frequentist analysis of three right-handed neutrinos with GAMBIT
Authors: Chrzaszcz Marcin , Drewes Marco , Gonzalo Tomás E. , Harz Julia , Krishnamurthy Suraj , Weniger Christoph
Published: June 2020

The extension of the Standard Model by right-handed neutrinos can not only explain the active neutrino masses via the seesaw mechanism, it is also able solve a number of long standing problems in cosmology. Especially, masses below the TeV scale are of particular interest as they can lead to a plethora of signatures in experimental searches. We present the first full frequentist analysis of the extension of the Standard Model by three right-handed neutrinos, with masses between 60 MeV and 500 GeV, using the Global and Modular BSM (beyond the Standard Model) Inference Tool GAMBIT. Our analysis is based on the Casas-Ibarra parametrisation and includes a large range of experimental constraints: active neutrino mixing, indirect constraints from, e.g., electroweak precision observables and lepton universality, and numerous direct searches for right-handed neutrinos. To study their overall effect, we derive combined profile likelihood results for the phenomenologically most relevant parameter projections. Furthermore, we discuss the role of (marginally) statistically preferred regions in the parameter space. Finally, we explore the flavour mixing pattern of the three right-handed neutrinos for different values of the lightest neutrino mass. Our results comprise the most comprehensive assessment of the model with three right-handed neutrinos model below the TeV scale so far, and provide a robust ground for exploring the impact of future constraints or detections.
Economic outcomes predicted by diversity in cities
Authors: Chong Shi Kai , Bahrami Mohsen , Chen Hao , Balcisoy Selim , Bozkaya Burcin , Pentland Alex ‘Sandy’
Published: June 2020

Much recent work has illuminated the growth, innovation, and prosperity of entire cities, but there is relatively less evidence concerning the growth and prosperity of individual neighborhoods. In this paper we show that diversity of amenities within a city neighborhood, computed from openly available points of interest on digital maps, accurately predicts human mobility (“flows”) between city neighborhoods and that these flows accurately predict neighborhood economic productivity. Additionally, the diversity of consumption behaviour or the diversity of flows together with geographic centrality and population density accurately predicts neighborhood economic growth, even after controlling for standard factors such as population, etc. We develop our models using geo-located purchase data from Istanbul, and then validate the relationships using openly available data from Beijing and several U.S. cities. Our results suggest that the diversity of goods and services within a city neighborhood is the largest single factor driving both human mobility and economic growth.
Tetra-(benzo-24-crown-8)-phthalocyanines as a platform for supramolecular ensembles: Synthesis and interaction with viologen
Authors: Safonova Evgeniya A. , Wytko Jennifer A. , Weiss Jean , Ugolkova Elena A. , Efimov Nikolay N. , Minin Vadim V. , Gorbunova Yulia G. , Tsivadze Aslan Yu.
Published: June 2020

The synthesis of a series of novel tetra-(benzo-24-crown-8)-phthalocyanines (Mg(II), Ni(II) and Co(II)) as well as a modified procedure for the free-base ligand and its Zn(II) and Cu(II) complexes are reported. The tendency of these phthalocyanines to undergo supramolecular cofacial dimerization induced by interaction with a viologen ([Formula: see text]-di(but-3-ynyl)-4,4[Formula: see text]-bipyridinium) was investigated by UV-vis absorption and EPR spectral studies in solution. The nature of the metal cation in phthalocyanine, the concentration, as well as the solvent all influenced the assembly processes.
Catalytic oxidation of cycloalkanes by porphyrin cobalt(II) through efficient utilization of oxidation intermediates
Authors: Shen Hai M. , Wang Xiong , Guo A. Bing , Zhang Long , She Yuan B.
Published: June 2020

The catalytic oxidation of cycloalkanes using molecular oxygen employing porphyrin cobalt(II) as catalyst was enhanced through use of cycloalkyl hydroperoxides, which are the primary intermediates in oxidation of cycloalkanes, as additional oxidants to further oxidize cycloalkanes in the presence of porphyrin copper(II), especially for cyclohexane, for which the selectivity was enhanced from 88.6 to 97.2% to the KA oil; at the same time, the conversion of cyclohexane was enhanced from 3.88 to 4.41%. The enhanced efficiency and selectivity were mainly attributed to the avoided autoxidation of cycloalkanes and efficient utilization of oxidation intermediate cycloalkyl hydroperoxides as additional oxidants instead of conventional thermal decomposition. In addition to cyclohexane, the protocol presented in this research is also very applicable in the oxidation of other cycloalkanes such as cyclooctane, cycloheptane and cyclopentane, and can serve as a applicable and efficient strategy to boost the conversion and selectivity simultaneously in oxidation of alkanes. This work also is a very important reference for the extensive application of metalloporphyrins in catalysis chemistry.
On the edge irregularity strength of corona product of graphs with cycle
Authors: Tarawneh I. , Hasni R. , Ahmad A. , Lau G. C. , Lee S. M.
Published: June 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be a simple graph with vertex set [Formula: see text] and edge set [Formula: see text], respectively. An edge irregular [Formula: see text]-labeling of [Formula: see text] is a labeling of [Formula: see text] with labels from the set [Formula: see text] in such a way that for any two different edges [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], their weights [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are distinct. The weight of an edge [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] is the sum of the labels of the end vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The minimum [Formula: see text] for which the graph [Formula: see text] has an edge irregular [Formula: see text]-labeling is called the edge irregularity strength of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we determine the exact value of edge irregularity strength of corona product of graphs with cycle.
Dementia Improvement after Primary Hyperparathyroidism Surgery
Authors: Voci Claudio
Published: June 2020

This is the case of a 76-year-old man admitted to hospital in a delirium state, previously diagnosed with a major depressive disorder at an age of 50 years, treated for years for chronic tension headache. The computed tomography of the head resulted negative. Inpatient laboratory tests revealed a mild hypercalcemia. Due to the progression of the disease (delirium state, dementia, tension headache, and depression), he was again admitted to hospital. The patient showed dysarthria, postural tremors, mirror movements and palmar hyperhidrosis, mild ataxia when walking, and rigidity. Sleep disturbances were also observed. He underwent several clinical diagnostic tests, which resulted negative. After more than 2 years, the ultrasound of the neck identified enlarged parathyroid glands. The patient was surgically treated, and three parathyroid glands were removed. Parathyroidectomy and lithium treatment resulted in improvement of cognitive functions. In elderly patients, concomitant presence of cognitive dysfunction may mask the underlying primary hyperparathyroidism.
Motion Deblurring in Image Color Enhancement by WGAN
Authors: Feng Jiangfan , Qi Shuang
Published: June 2020

Motion deblurring and image enhancement are active research areas over the years. Although the CNN-based model has an advanced state of the art in motion deblurring and image enhancement, it fails to produce multitask results when challenged with the images of challenging illumination conditions. The key idea of this paper is to introduce a novel multitask learning algorithm for image motion deblurring and color enhancement, which enables us to enhance the color effect of an image while eliminating motion blur. To achieve this, we explore the synchronization of processing two tasks for the first time by using the framework of generative adversarial networks (GANs). We add L1 loss to the generator loss to simulate the model to match the target image at the pixel level. To make the generated image closer to the target image at the visual level, we also integrate perceptual style loss into generator loss. After a lot of experiments, we get an effective configuration scheme. The best model trained for about one week has achieved state-of-the-art performance in both deblurring and enhancement. Also, its image processing speed is approximately 1.75 times faster than the best competitor.
Detection of Metalloproteases and Cysteine Proteases RNA Transcripts of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum in Ear Edge Skin of Naturally Infected Dogs
Authors: Veloso Laura Barral , de Oliveira Cardoso Flávia , dos Santos Charret Karen , de Sá Silva Matheus Pereira , de Castro Côrtes Luzia Monteiro , da Silva Calabrese Kátia , da Silva Franklin Souza , de Sousa Joel Fontes , Rocha Marília Fonseca , Alves Carlos Roberto
Published: June 2020

Leishmania spp. proteases have been proposed as virulence factors contributing to adaptive success these parasites to the mammalian hosts. Since these enzymes are poorly studied in naturally infected dogs, this work aims to show the differences in metalloprotease and cysteine proteases gene expression in ear edge skin of dogs naturally infected by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum. A cohort of dogs (n = 20) naturally infected by L. (L.) infantum was clinically classified as asymptomatic, oligosymptomatic, and polysymptomatic and the parasite load range estimated. The analysis of proteases expression by RT‐PCR in the ear edge skin was also assessed, suggesting more transcripts of proteases in cDNA samples from polysymptomatic dogs than oligosymptomatic and asymptomatic ones. Metalloprotease RT‐PCR assays yielded products (202 bp) in all assessed cDNA dog samples. In contrast, cysteine proteases transcripts (227 bp) had shown to be better detected in cDNA samples of polysymptomatic dogs, compared with cDNA samples from asymptomatic and oligosymptomatic dogs. Predictive in silico assays suggested that secondary structures of metalloproteasee mRNAs can be more stable than cysteine proteases at the skin temperature of dogs. Evidence is presented that during natural infection of dogs by L. (L.) infantum, this parasite produces transcripts of metalloprotease and cysteine protease RNA in the skin from asymptomatic, oligosymptomatic, and polysymptomatic dogs.
Secure Multiusers Directional Modulation Scheme Based on Random Frequency Diverse Arrays in Broadcasting Systems
Authors: Gao Jianbang , Yuan Zhaohui , Qiu Bin , Zhou Jing
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we research a synthesis scheme for secure wireless communication in the broadcasting multiusers directional modulation system, which consists of multiple legitimate users (LUs) receiving the same confidential messages and multiple eavesdroppers (Eves) intercepting the confidential messages. We propose a new type of array antennas, termed random frequency diverse arrays (RFDA), to enhance the security of confidential messages due to its angle-range dependent beam patterns. Based on RFDA, we put forward a synthesis scheme to achieve multiobjective secure wireless communication. First, with known locations of Eves, the beamforming vector is designed to minimize Eves’ receiving power of confidential message (Min-ERP) while satisfying the power requirement of LUs. Furthermore, we research a more practical scenario, where locations of Eves are unknown. Unlike the scenario of known locations of Eves, the beamforming vector is designed to maximize the sum received power of LUs (Max-LRP) while satisfying a minimum received power constraint at each LU. Second, the artificial-noise projection matrix (ANPM) is calculated to reduce artificial-noise (AN) impact on LUs and enhance the interference on Eves. Numerical results verify the superior secure performance of the proposed schemes in the broadcasting multiusers system.
On the Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Extreme Value Index Based on k-Record Values
Authors: Louzaoui Abderrahim , El Arrouchi Mohamed
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we study the existence and consistency of the maximum likelihood estimator of the extreme value index based on k-record values. Following the method used by Drees et al. (2004) and Zhou (2009), we prove that the likelihood equations, in terms of k-record values, eventually admit a strongly consistent solution without any restriction on the extreme value index, which is not the case in the aforementioned studies.
Discharge and Optical Emission Spectrum Characteristics of a Coaxial Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma-Assisted Combustion Actuator
Authors: Liu Pengfei , He Liming , Zhao Bingbing
Published: June 2020

A coaxial dielectric barrier discharge plasma-assisted combustion actuator (DBD-PACA) system was set up to study its discharge and optical emission spectrum (OES) characteristics in space in this paper. Results showed that each discharge cycle can be divided into four stages: a, b, c, and d. Discharge-on only occurred in stages b and d. Comparatively, the discharge intensity was larger in stage d due to the memory effect of excited electrons. Moreover, Lissajous figure and current-voltage methods were utilized to calculate the power of the coaxial DBD-PACA, and both methods produced roughly similar results. The power presented an upward trend with increasing input voltage and airflow rate. In addition, numerous second positive system (SPS) excited nitrogen molecules were detected from the OES signals. The intensity of the spectral lines (297.54 nm, 315.76 nm, 336.96 nm, and 357.56 nm) first increased, then maintained, and then increased rapidly with the increased radius; however, the intensity of the spectral lines (380.34 nm, 405.80 nm, and 434.30 nm) basically remained unchanged, then increased, and finally decreased with the increased radius. The vibrational temperature first decreased quickly and then increased and reached the minimum at r = 18 mm with the increased radius. The vibrational temperatures at all collection points decreased with the increased input voltage. However, within the range of 0–280 L/min, when r was lower than 15 mm, the vibrational temperatures first increased rapidly and then decreased slowly; when r was greater than 15 mm, the vibrational temperatures first increased and then basically remained stable.
Rasmussen’s Encephalitis: A Report of a Tunisian Pediatric Case and Literature Review
Authors: Klaa Hedia , Ben Younes Thouraya , Benrhouma Hanene , Nagi Sonia , Rouissi Aida , Kraoua Ichraf , Ben Youssef-Turki Ilhem
Published: June 2020

Rasmussen’s encephalitis (RE) is a rare progressive inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. It is characterized by unilateral hemispheric atrophy, pharmacoresistant focal seizures, and progressive neurological deficit. The exact etiopathogenesis still remains unknown. Brain imaging plays an important role in diagnosis and follow-up. Fluctuation of lesions in brain imaging was reported in few cases. Herein, we report an additional pediatric case of Rasmussen encephalitis with fluctuating changes in brain MRI.