bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factually based autism awareness campaigns may not always be effective in changing attitudes towards autism: Evidence from British and South Korean nursing students
Authors: Mac Cárthaigh Saoirse , López Beatriz
Published: January 2020

This study explored the relationship between autism knowledge, autistic traits, frequency of contact with autistic people and attitudes towards these individuals in British and South Korean student nurses and whether these relationships were affected by the presence of autistic traits. In total, 331 participants (156 South Korean and 175 British) completed self-report measures of autism knowledge, attitudes towards autistic people, frequency of contact with these individuals and autistic traits. Although British participants demonstrated greater knowledge and more favourable attitudes, significant knowledge deficiencies were noted in both groups. Among British participants, knowledge was found to be a significant, but a very marginal, predictor of attitudes, whereas neither knowledge nor frequency of contact were predictive of attitudes among South Korean participants. Contrary to previous research findings, cultural differences in the presence of autistic traits were not noted, nor were these traits found to correlate with attitudes towards autistic people. The findings suggest that awareness initiatives which aim to address attitudes towards autism need more than simply increasing factual knowledge. More importantly, the results suggest that Western-developed autism awareness initiatives may be ineffectual if cultural idiosyncrasies are not considered.

Lay abstract

This study explored the relationship between autism knowledge, autistic traits, frequency of contact with autistic people and attitudes towards these individuals in British and South Korean student nurses and whether these relationships were affected by the presence of autistic traits. In total, 331 participants (156 South Korean and 175 British) completed self-report measures of autism knowledge, attitudes towards autistic people, frequency of contact with these individuals and autistic traits. Although British participants demonstrated greater knowledge and more favourable attitudes, significant knowledge gaps were noted in both groups. Among British participants, knowledge was found to be only a marginal predictor of attitudes, whereas neither knowledge nor frequency of contact were predictive of attitudes among South Korean participants. Contrary to previous research findings, cultural differences in the presence of autistic traits were not noted, nor were these traits found to be related to attitudes towards autistic people. The findings suggest that awareness initiatives which aim to address attitudes towards autism need more than simply increasing factual knowledge. More importantly, the results suggest that Western-developed autism awareness initiatives may be ineffectual if cultural differences are not considered.
Using radar plots for performance benchmarking at patient and hospital levels using an Australian orthopaedics dataset
Authors: Morales-Silva Daniel M , McPherson Cameron S , Pineda-Villavicencio Guillermo , Atchison Rory
Published: January 2020

This study will highlight the diagnostic potential that radar plots display for reporting on performance benchmarking from patient admissions to hospital for surgical procedures. Two drawbacks of radar plots – the presence of missing information and ordering of indicators – are addressed. Ten different orthopaedic surgery procedures were considered in this study. Moreover, twelve outcome indicators were provided for each of the 10 surgeries of interest. These indicators were displayed using a radar plot, which we call a scorecard. At the hospital level, we propose a facile process by which to consolidate our 10 scorecards into one. We addressed the ordering of indicators in our scorecards by considering the national median of the indicators as a benchmark. Furthermore, our the consolidated scorecard facilitates concise visualisation and dissemination of complex data. It also enables the classification of providers into potential low and high performers that warrant further investigation. In conclusion, radar plots provide a clear and effective comparative tool for discerning multiple outcome indicators against the benchmarks of patient admission. A case study between two top and bottom performers on a consolidated scorecard (at hospital level) showed that medical provider charges varied more than other outcome indicators.
Actual and potential gifts: Critique, shadow gift relations and the virtual domain of the ungiven
Authors: Copeman Jacob , Banerjee Dwaipayan
Published: January 2020

What is given may be evaluated in relation to what might have been given but was not. The central thematic of this essay is what we term the shadow gift relation (as distinct from the more standard anthropological gift relation among exchange partner dyads) between the gift that is given and that which remains ungiven—with the latter, both present and not present, coming to haunt and unsettle the former. The potential of the gift is key for it is intimately related to critique: we explore how the relation between the virtual ungiven and what is actually given may come to form the basis of social criticism. This essay, then, defines a kind of ‘keeping while giving’ that is related to but different from that famously elaborated by Annette Weiner, for what is kept back, in the cases we discuss in this essay, are virtual (imagined) forms of gift. Giving is a technology of the imagination because it is a process that precipitates the imagination of a relation between an actual gift and a double that is virtual but nonetheless real because it exists in the form of a manifold of potentials for how the gift could be.
Long-Term Effect of a Nonrandomized Psychosocial Mindfulness-Based Intervention in Hispanic/Latina Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Elimimian Elizabeth , Elson Leah , Bilani Nadeem , Farrag Safa E. , Dwivedi Alok Kumar , Pasillas Rebecca , Nahleh Zeina A.
Published: January 2020

Background: There is a paucity of research on the long-term impact of stress-reduction in Hispanic/Latina breast cancer (BC) survivors, a growing minority. In this article, we assess the long-term efficacy of an 8-week training program in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) on quality of life (QoL) in Hispanic BC survivors. Methods: Hispanic BC survivors, within the first 5 years of diagnosis, stages I to III BC, were recruited. Participants were enrolled in bilingual, 8-week intensive group training in MBSR and were asked to practice a- home, daily. They were also provided with audio recordings and a book on mindfulness practices. Patient-reported outcomes for QoL and distress were evaluated at baseline, and every 3 months, for 24 months. Results: Thirty-three self-identified Hispanic women with BC completed the MBSR program and were followed at 24 months. Statistically significant reduction was noted for the Generalized Anxiety Disorder measure (mean change −2.39, P=0.04); and Patient Health Questionnaire (mean change −2.27, P=0.04), at 24 months, compared with baseline. Improvement was noted in the Short-Form 36 Health-related QoL Mental Component Summary with an increase of 4.07 (95% confidence interval = 0.48-7.66, P=0.03). However, there was no significant change in the Physical Component Summary. Conclusions: Hispanic BC survivors who participated in an 8-week MBSR–based survivorship program reported persistent benefits with reduced anxiety, depression, and improved mental health QoL over 24 months of follow-up. Stress reduction programs are beneficial and can be implemented as part of a comprehensive survivorship care in BC patients.
Design, synthesis, and antitumor activity of novel benzoheterocycle derivatives as inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase
Authors: Ding Yangyang , Liu Kai , Zhao Xinyu , Lv Yingtao , Yu Rilei , Kang Congmin
Published: January 2020

The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 signaling pathway promotes the formation of new blood vessels, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase exists in both active and inactive conformations. Novel indole–benzimidazole and indole–benzothiazole derivatives joined by different linkers are designed and synthesized as inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase. All the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicity against four human cancer cell lines (HeLa, HT29, A549, and MDA-MB-435) and human umbilical vein endothelial cell. Meanwhile, the inhibitory activities against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 are estimated in vitro and the binding interactions with dual conformations of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase are evaluated by molecular docking. Compounds 5a–c and 14 show inhibitory activity against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase and promising cytotoxicity, specifically with IC50 values ranging between 0.1 and 1 μM, which imply broad-spectrum antitumor activity. These results provide a deep insight into potential structural modifications for developing potent vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Select targeting of intracellular Toll-interleukin-1 receptor resistance domains for protection against influenza-induced disease
Authors: Shirey Kari Ann , Lai Wendy , Brown Lindsey J , Blanco Jorge C G , Beadenkopf Robert , Wang Yajing , Vogel Stefanie N , Snyder Greg A
Published: January 2020

TLRs are a family of PRRs that respond to PAMPs or host-derived Danger-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) to initiate host inflammation and immune responses. TLR dimerization and recruitment of adapter molecules is critical for intracellular signaling and is mediated through intracellular Toll-Interleukin 1 Receptor Resistance (TIR) domain interactions. Human TIR domains, including reported structures of TIR1, TIR2, TIR6, TIR10, TIRAP, and MyD88, contain Cysteine (Cys) interactions or modifications that are disproportionally at, or near, reported biological TIR interfaces, or in close proximity to functionally important regions. Therefore, we hypothesized that intracellular TIR Cys regulation may have greater functional importance than previously appreciated. Expression of mutant TLR4-C747S or treatment of TLR4 reporter cells with a small molecule, Cys-binding inhibitor of TLR4, TAK-242, abrogated LPS signaling in vitro. Using TAK-242, mice were protected from lethal influenza challenge as previously reported for extracellular TLR4 antagonists. Molecular modeling and sequence analysis of the region surrounding TLR4-Cys747 indicate conservation of a WxxxE motif identified among bacterial and NAD+-consuming TIRs, as well as within the TIRs domains of surface TLRs 1, 2, 4, 6, and 10. Together, these data support the hypothesis that critical Cys within the TIR domain are essential for TLR4 functionality.
Diagnosis and risk stratification of chest pain patients in the emergency department: focus on acute coronary syndromes. A position paper of the Acute Cardiovascular Care Association
Authors: Stepinska Janina , Lettino Maddelena , Ahrens Ingo , Bueno Hector , Garcia-Castrillo Luis , Khoury Abdo , Lancellotti Patrizio , Mueller Christian , Muenzel Thomas , Oleksiak Anna , Petrino Roberta , Guimenez Maria Rubini , Zahger Doron , Vrints Christiaan JM , Halvorsen Sigrun , de Maria Elia , Lip Gregory YH , Rossini Roberta , Claeys Marc , Huber Kurt
Published: January 2020

This paper provides an update on the European Society of Cardiology task force report on the management of chest pain. Its main purpose is to provide an update on the decision algorithms and diagnostic pathways to be used in the emergency department for the assessment and triage of patients with chest pain symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndromes.
Exploring pathways from violence and HIV disclosure without consent to depression, social support, and HIV medication self-efficacy among women living with HIV in Metro Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Deering Kathleen N , Braschel Melissa , Logie Carmen , Ranville Flo , Krüsi Andrea , Duff Putu , Shannon Kate
Published: January 2020

We used path analysis to investigate complex pathways from HIV status disclosure without consent, physical/verbal violence and depression, social support, and HIV medication self-efficacy through mediators of HIV stigma among women living with HIV in Canada. In the final model, internalized stigma fully mediated the relationship between physical/verbal violence and reduced medication self-efficacy. Enacted stigma fully mediated the relationship between HIV status disclosure without consent and depression. Internalized stigma (β = 0.252; p < 0.001) had a significant negative direct effect on medication self-efficacy. Enacted stigma had a significant direct effect on depression (β = 0.162; p = 0.037). Findings will help improve services and interventions to promote quality of life and well-being of women living with HIV.
Transition Planning: Voices of Chinese and Vietnamese Parents of Youth With Autism and Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Lo Lusa , Bui Oanh
Published: January 2020

Lack of family engagement in transition planning continues to be a challenge in special education. This study examined the experiences of Chinese and Vietnamese families of youth with disabilities toward transition planning. Results suggested that participants were eager to be engaged in the transition planning and valued the importance of transition planning activities. They wanted to ensure that their youth were equipped with skills, so they could lead a successful and independent adult life. However, schools provided little to no information regarding the transition planning process. This lack of information prevented them from being actively involved. Implications for future research and practice to enhance partnership between schools and diverse families in the development of transition planning are discussed.
Brazil in the Context of the Commercial War Between USA and China
Authors: Previdelli Maria de Fatima Silva do Carmo , de Souza Luiz Eduardo Simoes , Nunes Rodolfo Francisco Soares
Published: January 2020

Since the start of the commercial war between the USA and China in 2018, Brazil has changed many of its previous alliances in order to become the interest representative of the USA in Latin America. After the coup d’état of 2016, Brazil has taken progressive actions in order to distance itself from the previous partners at BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to get closer to the USA. The arrival of the new Brazilian president in 2019, a declared representative of US interests in the Latin American continent, has increased the pace of such measures. This article aims to explain the main actions taken by the USA and China in that context and how Brazil has adapted to take sides in that scenario, moving away from the BRICS group (now RICS since the B stands for Brazil) and toward the US foreign and economic policies.
Where Does Competition Come From? The role of organization
Authors: Arora-Jonsson Stefan , Brunsson Nils , Hasse Raimund
Published: January 2020

Although an ever-increasing number and types of organizations are expected to compete, the origins of competition have been a neglected topic. By assuming that competition simply emerges, organization theory currently lacks an understanding of when and why organizations compete. In this article we critically review and extend existing literatures on competition to offer an organizational theorization of the origins of competition. We argue that competition is the social construction of its four constitutive elements: actors, relationships, scarcity and desire. Furthermore, we show that three types of actors – those who compete, those who adjudicate the competition, and those who have an interest in creating competition – can construct competition independently or in concert. We also discuss different types of organized competition; the role of rankers, prize givers and other actors interested in creating competition; and competition as an unintended consequence of organization. Finally, we outline future research on competition and organization that follows from our conceptualization, along with some normative implications.
Comparison of physical and mechanical properties of four rattan species grown in China
Authors: Yang Shumin , Xiang E’lin , Shang Lili , Liu Xing’e , Tian Genlin , Ma Jianfeng
Published: January 2020

Rattan cane is an important forest product only second to timber and bamboo, with higher economic value and ecological benefits. Physical and mechanical properties are more important quality performance indexes, which are highly correlated with the processing and utilization of rattan cane. The present paper describes a study of main physical and mechanical properties in different heights of rattan cane for four rattan species, and also makes a comparison of property for Calamus simplicifolius grown in different sites. The relationship between species, cane position, density and mechanical properties of the rattan in China is also discussed. The results show that the physical and mechanical properties differ among four rattan species, and they follow irregular variation pattern with height. The physical–mechanical properties have no significant difference among species except modulus of elasticity, and the same as the different geographical areas. The basic density and mechanical properties gave a more moderate correlation with quadric equation. This result will provide basic data support for property modification and commercial utilization of rattan resources.
Genome-wide identification, molecular evolution, and expression analysis provide new insights into the APETALA2/ethylene responsive factor (AP2/ERF) superfamily in Dimocarpus longan Lour
Authors: Zhang Shuting , Zhu Chen , Lyu Yumeng , Chen Yan , Zhang Zihao , Lai Zhongxiong , Lin Yuling
Published: January 2020

Background

The APETALA2/ethylene responsive factor (AP2/ERF) superfamily members are transcription factors that regulate diverse developmental processes and stress responses in plants. They have been identified in many plants. However, little is known about the AP2/ERF superfamily in longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.), which is an important tropical/subtropical evergreen fruit tree that produces a variety of bioactive compounds with rich nutritional and medicinal value. We conducted a genome-wide analysis of the AP2/ERF superfamily and its roles in somatic embryogenesis (SE) and developmental processes in longan.

Results

A genome-wide survey of the AP2/ERF superfamily was carried out to discover its evolution and function in longan. We identified 125 longan AP2/ERF genes and classified them into the ERF (101 members), AP2 (19 members), RAV (four members) families, and one Soloist. The AP2 and Soloist genes contained one to ten introns, whereas 87 genes in the ERF and RAV families had no introns. Hormone signaling molecules such as methyl jasmonate (MeJA), abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin, auxin, and salicylic acid (SA), and stress response cis-acting element low-temperature (55) and defense (49) boxes also were identified. We detected diverse single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between the ‘Hong He Zi’ (HHZ) and ‘SI JI MI’ (SJM) cultivars. The number of insertions and deletions (InDels) was far fewer than SNPs. The AP2 family members exhibited more alternative splicing (AS) events in different developmental processes of longan than members of the other families. Expression pattern analysis revealed that some AP2/ERF members regulated early SE and developmental processes in longan seed, root, and flower, and responded to exogenous hormones such as MeJA, SA, and ABA, and 2,4-D, a synthetic auxin. Protein interaction predictions indicated that the Baby Boom (BBM) transcription factor, which was up-regulated at the transcriptional level in early SE, may interact with the LALF/AGL15 network.

Conclusions

The comprehensive analysis of molecular evolution and expression patterns suggested that the AP2/ERF superfamily may plays an important role in longan, especially in early SE, and in seed, root, flower, and young fruit. This systematic analysis provides a foundation for further functional characterization of the AP2/ERF superfamily with the aim of longan improvement.
3’Pool-seq: an optimized cost-efficient and scalable method of whole-transcriptome gene expression profiling
Authors: Sholder Gabriel , Lanz Thomas A. , Moccia Robert , Quan Jie , Aparicio-Prat Estel , Stanton Robert , Xi Hualin S.
Published: January 2020

Background

The advent of Next Generation Sequencing has allowed transcriptomes to be profiled with unprecedented accuracy, but the high costs of full-length mRNA sequencing have posed a limit on the accessibility and scalability of the technology. To address this, we developed 3’Pool-seq: a simple, cost-effective, and scalable RNA-seq method that focuses sequencing to the 3′-end of mRNA. We drew from aspects of SMART-seq, Drop-seq, and TruSeq to implement an easy workflow, and optimized parameters such as input RNA concentrations, tagmentation conditions, and read depth specifically for bulk-RNA.

Results

Thorough optimization resulted in a protocol that takes less than 12 h to perform, does not require custom sequencing primers or instrumentation, and cuts over 90% of the costs associated with TruSeq, while still achieving accurate gene expression quantification (Pearson’s correlation coefficient with ERCC theoretical concentration r = 0.96) and differential gene detection (ROC analysis of 3’Pool-seq compared to TruSeq AUC = 0.921). The 3’Pool-seq dual indexing scheme was further adapted for a 96-well plate format, and ERCC spike-ins were used to correct for potential row or column pooling effects. Transcriptional profiling of troglitazone and pioglitazone treatments at multiple doses and time points in HepG2 cells was then used to show how 3’Pool-seq could distinguish the two molecules based on their molecular signatures.

Conclusions

3’Pool-seq can accurately detect gene expression at a level that is on par with TruSeq, at one tenth of the total cost. Furthermore, its unprecedented TruSeq/Nextera hybrid indexing scheme and streamlined workflow can be applied in several different formats, including 96-well plates, which allows users to thoroughly evaluate biological systems under several conditions and timepoints. Care must be taken regarding experimental design and plate layout such that potential pooling effects can be accounted for and corrected. Lastly, further studies using multiple sets of ERCC spike-ins may be used to simulate differential gene expression in a system with known ground-state values.
Pneumococcal serotype determines growth and capsule size in human cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Müller Annelies , Salmen Anke , Aebi Suzanne , de Gouveia Linda , von Gottberg Anne , Hathaway Lucy J.
Published: January 2020

Background

The polysaccharide capsule is a major virulence factor ofS. pneumoniaein diseases such as meningitis. While some capsular serotypes are more often found in invasive disease, high case fatality rates are associated with those serotypes more commonly found in asymptomatic colonization. We tested whether growth patterns and capsule size in human cerebrospinal fluid depends on serotype using a clinical isolate ofS. pneumoniaeand its capsule switch mutants.

Results

We found that the growth pattern differed markedly from that in culture medium by lacking the exponential and lysis phases. Growth in human cerebrospinal fluid was reduced when strains lost their capsules. When a capsule was present, growth was serotype-specific: high carriage serotypes (6B, 9 V, 19F and 23F) grew better than low carriage serotypes (7F, 14, 15B/C and 18C). Growth correlated with the case-fatality rates of serotypes reported in the literature. Capsule size in human cerebrospinal fluid also depended on serotype.

Conclusions

We propose that serotype-specific differences in disease severity observed in meningitis patients may, at least in part, be explained by differences in growth and capsule size in human cerebrospinal fluid. This information could be useful to guide future vaccine design.
Impact of sugar beet seed priming using the SMP method on the properties of the pericarp
Authors: Chomontowski C. , Podlaski S.
Published: January 2020

Background

This study determined the effects of two solid matrix priming methods on changes in the characteristics of two lots of the same variety of sugar beet fruits that differ in the level of vigour.

Results

Seed treatment within each level of vigour did not significantly affect helium and apparent density, total pore volume and total porosity. However, there was a tendency to increase porosity due to priming. This is probably why seed priming significantly increased mesopore diameter in both high and low vigour seeds. These changes increased the water content in the pericarp and the seeds and increased the water potential during germination. The high level of electrical conductivity of the fruit extracts was associated with low seed vigour. Low vigour resulted in higher humidity of the pericarp and decreased seed moisture and was also associated with lower water potential of the pericarp and seeds.

Conclusions

A significant difference in the water content in the pericarp and seeds was indicative of imbibition and problems with water flow between these centres, which resulted in a low water diffusion coefficient of the pericarp. This low water diffusion coefficient was correlated with the prolongation of the seed germination time.
Repair of sub-lethal freezing damage in leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Vyse Kora , Penzlin Johanna , Sergeant Kjell , Hincha Dirk K. , Arora Rajeev , Zuther Ellen
Published: January 2020

Background

The detrimental effects of global climate change direct more attention to the survival and productivity of plants during periods of highly fluctuating temperatures. In particular in temperate climates in spring, temperatures can vary between above-zero and freezing temperatures, even during a single day. Freeze-thaw cycles cause cell membrane lesions that can lead to tissue damage and plant death. Whereas the processes of cold acclimation and freeze-thaw injury are well documented, not much is known about the recovery of plants after a freezing event. We therefore addressed the following questions: i. how does the severity of freezing damage influence repair; ii. how are respiration and content of selected metabolites influenced during the repair process; and iii. how do transcript levels of selected genes respond during repair?

Results

We have investigated the recovery from freezing to sub-lethal temperatures in leaves of non-acclimated and cold acclimatedArabidopsis thalianaplants over a period of 6 days. Fast membrane repair and recovery of photosynthesis were observed 1 day after recovery (1D-REC) and continued until 6D-REC. A substantial increase in respiration accompanied the repair process. In parallel, concentrations of sugars and proline, acting as compatible solutes during freezing, remained unchanged or declined, implicating these compounds as carbon and nitrogen sources during recovery. Similarly, cold-responsive genes were mainly down regulated during recovery of cold acclimated leaves. In contrast, genes involved in cell wall remodeling and ROS scavenging were induced during recovery. Interestingly, also the expression of genes encoding regulatory proteins, such as 14–3-3 proteins, was increased suggesting their role as regulators of repair processes.

Conclusions

Recovery from sub-lethal freezing comprised membrane repair, restored photosynthesis and increased respiration rates. The process was accompanied by transcriptional changes including genes encoding regulatory proteins redirecting the previous cold response to repair processes, e.g. to cell wall remodeling, maintenance of the cellular proteome and to ROS scavenging. Understanding of processes involved in repair of freeze-thaw injury increases our knowledge on plant survival in changing climates with highly fluctuating temperatures.
In-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant assays of chicory plants (Cichorium intybus L.) as influenced by organic and conventional fertilisers
Authors: Sinkovič Lovro , Jamnik Polona , Korošec Mojca , Vidrih Rajko , Meglič Vladimir
Published: January 2020

Background

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is a traditional European crop that is highly appreciated for its contents of bioactive compounds, especially phenolics, which have high antioxidant activities. Among other factors, agricultural practice might affect the contents of these bioactive compounds, which are also important from a nutritional point of view, and affect the shelf-life.

Results

The antioxidant potential (AOP) of chicory plants treated with different fertilisers was investigated in vitro using DPPH radical scavenging and in vivo using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Additionally, total phenolics content (TPC) was evaluated using Folin–Ciocalteu reagent, and total flavonoids content (TFC) using the aluminium chloride method. Four different chicory cultivars were included: ‘Treviso’, ‘Verona’ and ‘Anivip’ as red cultivars; and ‘Castelfranco’ as a red-spotted cultivar. These were grown in pots under controlled glasshouse conditions using organic and/or mineral fertilisers. The combination of organic and mineral fertilisers during red chicory growth resulted in significantly higher in-vitro and in-vivo AOPs compared to the control. For the red-spotted cultivar ‘Castelfranco’, this combined organic and mineral fertilisation decreased AOPs in vitro and increased AOPs in vivo. Among the cultivars examined, ‘Castelfranco’ treated with combined organic plus mineral fertilisers showed the highest AOP in vivo, accompanied by the lowest TPC and TFC.

Conclusions

These data show that application of different fertilisers has different impacts on red and red-spotted chicory cultivars in terms of TFC and TPC, which for red-spotted chicory resulted in different AOPs in vitro and in vivo. The in-vitro AOP is well reflected in the in-vivo AOP for the red chicory cultivars, but less so for the red-spotted cultivar ‘Castelfranco’. Based on the in-vivo AOPs for these chicory cultivars analysed, the combined organic plus mineral fertiliser treatment is recommended.
Imported loiasis in France: a retrospective analysis of 167 cases with comparison between sub-Saharan and non sub-Saharan African patients
Authors: Bouchaud Olivier , Matheron Sophie , Loarec Anne , Dupouy Camet Jean , Bourée Patrice , Godineau Nadine , Poilane Isabelle , Cailhol Johann , Caumes Eric
Published: January 2020

Background

Imported loiasis is a rare cause of consultation at the return of stay in central Africa, which often poses difficult diagnostic and therapeutic questions to practitioners especially those who are unaccustomed to tropical medicine. These difficulties can lead to risks for the patients especially if inappropriate treatment is given. Large series of imported loiasis are scarce.

Methods

We retrospectively studied the data including outcome in patients diagnosed with imported loiasis between 1993 and 2013 in the Paris area on the basis of a parasitological diagnosis (microfilaremia > 1/ml and/or serologic tests). We compared sub-Saharan and non sub-Saharan African patients.

Results

Of the 177 identified cases, 167 could be analysed. Sex ratio was 1, mean age 41 years and 83% were sub-Saharan Africans. Cameroon was the main country of exposure (62%). Incubation time may be long (up to 18 months). Of the 167 cases, 57% presented with characteristic symptoms (Calabar swellings, creeping dermatitis, eyeworm) whereas 43% were diagnosed fortuitously. Microfilaremia was evidenced in 105 patients (63%), and specific antibodies in 53%. Compared to sub-Saharan Africans, other patients were presenting less frequently with eyeworm migration and microfilaremia whereas they had higher eosinophilia and positive serology. Prevalence of Calabar swellings was not significantly different between the two groups. Cure rates were 52% with ivermectin alone, and 77% with ivermectin followed by diethylcarbamazine. No severe adverse event was reported.

Conclusions

Presentation of imported loiasis varies according to ethnicity. A systematic screening should be recommended in patients with potential exposure in endemic country. Treatment with ivermectin followed by diethylcarbamazine could be a valuable option.
Clinical and genetic markers associated with tuberculosis, HIV-1 infection, and TB/HIV-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome outcomes
Authors: de Sá Nathalia Beatriz Ramos , Ribeiro-Alves Marcelo , da Silva Tatiana Pereira , Pilotto Jose Henrique , Rolla Valeria Cavalcanti , Giacoia-Gripp Carmem B. W. , Scott-Algara Daniel , Morgado Mariza Gonçalves , Teixeira Sylvia Lopes Maia
Published: January 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) and AIDS are the leading causes of infectious disease death worldwide. In some TB-HIV co-infected individuals treated for both diseases simultaneously, a pathological inflammatory reaction termed immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) may occur. The risk factors for IRIS are not fully defined. We investigated the association of HLA-B, HLA-C, and KIR genotypes with TB, HIV-1 infection, and IRIS onset.

Methods

Patients were divided into four groups: Group 1- TB+/HIV+ (n = 88; 11 of them with IRIS), Group 2- HIV+ (n = 24), Group 3- TB+ (n = 24) and Group 4- healthy volunteers (n = 26). Patients were followed up at INI/FIOCRUZ and HGNI (Rio de Janeiro/Brazil) from 2006 to 2016. The HLA-B and HLA-C loci were typed using SBT, NGS, and KIR genes by PCR-SSP. Unconditional logistic regression models were performed for Protection/risk estimation.

Results

Among the individuals with TB as the outcome, KIR2DS2 was associated with increased risk for TB onset (aOR = 2.39, P = 0.04), whereas HLA-B*08 and female gender were associated with protection against TB onset (aOR = 0.23, P = 0.03, and aOR = 0.33, P = 0.01, respectively). Not carrying KIR2DL3 (aOR = 0.18, P = 0.03) and carrying HLA-C*07 (aOR = 0.32, P = 0.04) were associated with protection against TB onset among HIV-infected patients. An increased risk for IRIS onset was associated with having a CD8 count ≤500 cells/mm3 (aOR = 18.23, P = 0.016); carrying the KIR2DS2 gene (aOR = 27.22, P = 0.032), the HLA-B*41 allele (aOR = 68.84, P = 0.033), the KIR2DS1 + HLA-C2 pair (aOR = 28.58, P = 0.024); and not carrying the KIR2DL3 + HLA-C1/C2 pair (aOR = 43.04, P = 0.034), and the KIR2DL1 + HLA-C1/C2 pair (aOR = 43.04, P = 0.034),

Conclusions

These results suggest the participation of these genes in the immunopathogenic mechanisms related to the conditions studied. This is the first study demonstrating an association of HLA-B*41, KIR2DS2, and KIR + HLA-C pairs with IRIS onset among TB-HIV co-infected individuals.
Factors associated with the timing of antenatal clinic attendance among first-time mothers in rural southern Ghana
Authors: Manyeh Alfred Kwesi , Amu Alberta , Williams John , Gyapong Margaret
Published: January 2020

Background

Pregnancy is an important period to promote healthy behaviors, prevent and identify diseases early and treat them to maximize the health and development of both the woman and her unborn child. A new World Health Organization antenatal care model recommends the initiation of antenatal care visit within the first trimester of gestation.

This study sought to examine the timing of initiation of antenatal care among first-time mothers and associated factors in rural Southern Ghana.

Methods

Information on gestational age, timing of antenatal care, demographic and socioeconomic status of 1076 first-time mothers who gave birth in 2011 to 2013 in the Dodowa Health and Demographic Surveillance System were included in the study. The time of initiation of antenatal clinic attendance was calculated. The associations between dependent and independent variables were explored using logistic regression at 95% confidence interval in STATA version 14.2.

Results

The mean gestational age at which the first-time mothers initiated antenatal care attendance was 3 month. Maternal age, level of education and household socioeconomic status were statistically significantly associated with timing of initiation of antenatal care attendance.

Conclusion

Although more than half of the study participants initiated ANC visit in the first trimester of pregnancy, a high proportion also started ANC attendance after the World Health Organization recommended period. Maternal age is significantly associated with timing of initiation of antenatal care visit among first-time mothers; older women were more likely to initiate antenatal care visit in the first trimester of gestation compared to the younger women.
3D visualization ablation planning system assisted microwave ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma (Diameter >3): a precise clinical application
Authors: An Chao , Li Xin , Zhang Min , Yang Jian , Cheng Zhigang , Yu Xiaoling , Han Zhiyu , Liu Fangyi , Dong Linan , Yu Jie , Liang Ping
Published: January 2020

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the feasibility and efficiency of ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (US-PMWA) assisted by three-dimensional visualization ablation planning system (3DVAPS) and conventional 2D planning for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (diameter > 3 cm).

Methods

One hundred thirty patients with 223 HCC nodules (5.0 ± 1.5 cm in diameter, [3.0–10.0 cm]) who met the eligibility criteria divided into 3D and 2D planning group were reviewed from April 2015 to August 2018. Ablation parameters and oncological outcomes were compared, including overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and local tumor progression (LTP). Multivariate analysis was performed on clinicopathological variables to identify the risk factors for OS and LTP.

Results

The median follow-up period was 21 months (range 3–44). Insertion number (5.4 ± 1.2 VS. 4.5 ± 0.9, P = 0.034), ablation time (1249.2 ± 654.2 s VS. 1082.4 ± 584.7 s, P = 0.048), ablation energy (57,000 ± 11,892 J VS. 42,600 ± 10,271 J, P = 0.038) and success rate of first ablation (95.0% VS. 85.7%, P = 0.033) were higher in the 3D planning group compared with those in 2D planning group. There was no statistical difference in OS, and RFS between the two groups (P = 0.995, P = 0.845). LTP rate of 3D planning group was less than that of 2D planning group (16.5% VS 41.2%, P = 0.003). Multivariate analysis showed tumor maximal diameters (P < 0.001), tumor number (P = 0.003) and preoperative TACE (P < 0.001) were predictors for OS and sessions (P = 0.024), a-fetoprotein level (P = 0.004), and preoperative planning (P = 0.002) were predictors for LTP, respectively.

Conclusions

3DVAPS improves precision of US guided ablation resulting in lower LTP and higher 5 mm-AM for patients with HCC lesions larger than 3 cm in diameter.
IL-1-conferred gene expression pattern in ERα+ BCa and AR+ PCa cells is intrinsic to ERα− BCa and AR− PCa cells and promotes cell survival
Authors: Nawas Afshan F. , Kanchwala Mohammed , Thomas-Jardin Shayna E. , Dahl Haley , Daescu Kelly , Bautista Monica , Anunobi Vanessa , Wong Ally , Meade Rachel , Mistry Ragini , Ghatwai Nisha , Bayerl Felix , Xing Chao , Delk Nikki A.
Published: January 2020

Background

Breast (BCa) and prostate (PCa) cancers are hormone receptor (HR)-driven cancers. Thus, BCa and PCa patients are given therapies that reduce hormone levels or directly block HR activity; but most patients eventually develop treatment resistance. We have previously reported that interleukin-1 (IL-1) inflammatory cytokine downregulatesERαandARmRNA in HR-positive (HR+) BCa and PCa cell lines, yet the cells can remain viable. Additionally, we identified pro-survival proteins and processes upregulated by IL-1 in HR+BCa and PCa cells, that are basally high in HR−BCa and PCa cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that IL-1 confers a conserved gene expression pattern in HR+BCa and PCa cells that mimics conserved basal gene expression patterns in HR−BCa and PCa cells to promote HR-independent survival and tumorigenicity.

Methods

We performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) for HR+BCa and PCa cell lines exposed to IL-1 and for untreated HR−BCa and PCa cell lines. We confirmed expression patterns of select genes by RT-qPCR and used siRNA and/or drug inhibition to silence select genes in the BCa and PCa cell lines. Finally, we performed Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) and used the gene ontology web-based tool, GOrilla, to identify signaling pathways encoded by our RNA-seq data set.

Results

We identified 350 genes in common between BCa and PCa cells that are induced or repressed by IL-1 in HR+cells that are, respectively, basally high or low in HR−cells. Among these genes, we identifiedSequestome-1(SQSTM1/p62) andSRY(Sex-Determining Region Y)-Box 9(SOX9) to be essential for survival of HR−BCa and PCa cell lines. Analysis of publicly available data indicates thatp62andSOX9expression are elevated in HR-independent BCa and PCa sublines generated in vitro, suggesting thatp62andSOX9have a role in acquired hormone receptor independence and treatment resistance. We also assessed HR−cell line viability in response to the p62-targeting drug, verteporfin, and found that verteporfin is cytotoxic for HR−cell lines.

Conclusions

Our 350 gene set can be used to identify novel therapeutic targets and/or biomarkers conserved among acquired (e.g. due to inflammation) or intrinsic HR-independent BCa and PCa.
HIV/AIDS treatment failure and associated factors in Ethiopia: meta-analysis
Authors: Endalamaw Aklilu , Mekonnen Mengistu , Geremew Demeke , Yehualashet Fikadu Ambaw , Tesera Hiwot , Habtewold Tesfa Dejenie
Published: January 2020

Background

The national burden of human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure and associated factors in the Ethiopian context is required to provide evidence towards a renewed ambitious future goal.

Methods

We accessed Ethiopian Universities’ online repository library, Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to get the research articles. We run I-squared statistics to see heterogeneity. Publication bias was checked by using Egger’s regression test. The pooled prevalence was estimated using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. We employed the sensitivity analysis to see the presence of outlier result in the included studies.

Results

The overall human immunodeficiency treatment failure was 15.9% (95% confidence interval: 11.6–20.1%). Using immunological, virological, and clinical definition, human immunodeficiency treatment failure was 10.2% (95% confidence interval: 6.9–13.6%), 5.6% (95% confidence interval: 2.9–8.3%), and 6.3% (95% confidence interval: 4.6–8.0%), respectively. The pooled effects of World Health Organization clinical stage III/IV (Adjusted Odd Ratio = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.3–2.6), presence of opportunistic infections (Adjusted Odd Ratio = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2–2.4), and poor adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (Adjusted Odd Ratio = 8.1; 95% CI: 4.3–11.8) on HIV treatment failure were estimated.

Conclusions

Human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure in Ethiopia found to be high. Being on advanced clinical stage, presence of opportunistic infections, and poor adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy were the contributing factors of human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure. Human immunodeficiency virus intervention programs need to address the specified contributing factors of human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure. Behavioral intervention to prevent treatment interruption is required to sustain human immunodeficiency virus treatment adherence.

Protocol registration

It has been registered in the PROSPERO database with a registration number of CRD42018100254.
“I was able to eat what I am supposed to eat”-- patient reflections on a medically-tailored meal intervention: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Berkowitz Seth A. , Shahid Naysha N. , Terranova Jean , Steiner Barbara , Ruazol Melanie P. , Singh Roshni , Delahanty Linda M. , Wexler Deborah J.
Published: January 2020

Background

Medically-tailored meal programs that provide home-delivered medically-appropriate food are an emerging intervention when type 2 diabetes co-occurs with food insecurity (limited or uncertain access to nutritious food owing to cost). We sought to understand the experiences of medically-tailored meal program participants.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with participants in a randomized trial of medically-tailored meals (NCT02426138) until reaching content saturation. Participants were adults (age > 20 years) with type 2 diabetes in eastern Massachusetts, and the interviews were conducted from April to July 2017. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded by two independent reviewers. We determined emergent themes using content analysis.

Results

Twenty individuals were interviewed. Their mean age was 58 (SD: 13) years, 60.0% were women, 20.0% were non-Hispanic black, and 15.0% were Hispanic. Key themes were 1) satisfaction and experience with medically-tailored meals 2) food preferences and cultural appropriateness, 3) diabetes management and awareness, and 4) suggestions for improvement and co-interventions. Within these themes, participants were generally satisfied with medically-tailored meals and emphasized the importance of receiving culturally appropriate food. Participants reported several positive effects of medically-tailored meals, including improved quality of life and ability to manage diabetes, and stress reduction. Participants suggested combining medically-tailored meals with diabetes self-management education or lifestyle interventions.

Conclusions

Individuals with diabetes and food insecurity expressed satisfaction with the medically-tailored meal program, and reported that participation reduced stress and the burden of diabetes management. Suggestions to help ensure the success of medically-tailored meal programs included a strong emphasis on culturally acceptability and accommodating taste preferences for provided foods, and combining medically-tailored meals with diabetes education or lifestyle intervention.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02426138.
Inverse-probability weighting and multiple imputation for evaluating selection bias in the estimation of childhood obesity prevalence using data from electronic health records
Authors: Sayon-Orea Carmen , Moreno-Iribas Conchi , Delfrade Josu , Sanchez-Echenique Manuela , Amiano Pilar , Ardanaz Eva , Gorricho Javier , Basterra Garbiñe , Nuin Marian , Guevara Marcela
Published: January 2020

Background and objectives

Height and weight data from electronic health records are increasingly being used to estimate the prevalence of childhood obesity. Here, we aim to assess the selection bias due to missing weight and height data from electronic health records in children older than five.

Methods

Cohort study of 10,811 children born in Navarra (Spain) between 2002 and 2003, who were still living in this region by December 2016. We examined the differences between measured and non-measured children older than 5 years considering weight-associated variables (sex, rural or urban residence, family income and weight status at 2–5 yrs). These variables were used to calculate stabilized weights for inverse-probability weighting and to conduct multiple imputation for the missing data. We calculated complete data prevalence and adjusted prevalence considering the missing data using inverse-probability weighting and multiple imputation for ages 6 to 14 and group ages 6 to 9 and 10 to 14.

Results

For 6–9 years, complete data, inverse-probability weighting and multiple imputation obesity age-adjusted prevalence were 13.18% (95% CI: 12.54–13.85), 13.22% (95% CI: 12.57–13.89) and 13.02% (95% CI: 12.38–13.66) and for 10–14 years 8.61% (95% CI: 8.06–9.18), 8.62% (95% CI: 8.06–9.20) and 8.24% (95% CI: 7.70–8.78), respectively.

Conclusions

Ages at which well-child visits are scheduled and for the 6 to 9 and 10 to 14 age groups, weight status estimations are similar using complete data, multiple imputation and inverse-probability weighting. Readily available electronic health record data may be a tool to monitor the weight status in children.