bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the penetration, development and reproduction of Meloidogyne javanica and M. graminicola on partially resistant Oryza sativa cultivars from East Africa
Authors: Nzogela Yasinta Beda , Luzi-Kihupi Ashura , De Waele Dirk , Gheysen Godelieve
Published: April 2020

The host response to Meloidogyne javanica infection of selected Oryza sativa and NERICA (New Rice for Africa) genotypes that are commonly grown in Tanzania and East Africa was examined. The O. sativa genotypes ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ appeared to be partially resistant. A further experiment showed that both genotypes are also partially resistant to M. graminicola infection. The host response of ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ to M. javanica and M. graminicola was further examined and compared in indoor growth chamber conditions. The genotypes ‘TOG5674’, ‘TOG5675’, ‘CG11’ and ‘CG14’ (both O. glaberrima) were included as the resistant reference genotypes for M. graminicola and the genotype ‘UPLRi-5’ (O. sativa) was included as the susceptible reference genotype for both species of root-knot nematodes. Meloidogyne graminicola was more aggressive on ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ than M. javanica. Significantly less root galling was observed on ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ than on ‘UPLRi-5’. In ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ significantly fewer second-stage juveniles (J2) were able to penetrate the roots, to develop into adult females and to reproduce compared with ‘UPLRi-5’. Differential emigration of J2 from the roots of ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ compared with ‘UPLRi-5’ contributed to the observed partial resistance in these genotypes to M. graminicola and M. javanica. Nematodes that successfully penetrated and developed in ‘Komboka’ and ‘Supa’ showed aberrant phenotypes. ‘Supa’ and ‘Komboka’ may be recommended for use by farmers in M. javanica and M. graminicola-infested fields.
Criteria and Constraints: the Human Rights Committee’s Test on Limiting the Freedom of Religion or Belief
Authors: Gunatilleke Gehan
Published: April 2020

The Human Rights Committee—the treaty body established under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights—performs a vital function in supervising the Covenant’s implementation. This article presents an analytical account of the Committee’s approach to determining the permissibility of limitations on the freedom of religion or belief under the Covenant. It finds that the Committee has set out certain primary legal criteria when determining the permissibility of a limitation. The Committee has then articulated certain additional normative constraints that apply to states’ authority to limit rights—such as the requirement that the limitation be compatible with the principle of non-discrimination. Based on an analysis of the Committee’s general comments and jurisprudence, the author argues that the Committee has offered a path towards imposing on states a heavier burden to justify limitations on the freedom of religion or belief.
Limitations to Freedom of Religion or Belief in Indonesia: Norms and Practices
Authors: Bagir Zainal Abidin , Asfinawati  , Suhadi  , Arianingtyas Renata
Published: April 2020

The landscape of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) in Indonesia has been shaped by two elements: first, the progressive adoption of human rights in the new laws and amended constitution, as a result of the democratization which started in 1998; second, the old governance of religion which acknowledges limited religious pluralism and emphasizes harmony over freedom. A striking feature resulting from this combination is the addition of “religious values” as a ground of FoRB limitation in the new chapter on human rights in the amended Constitution, which otherwise draws its inspiration from the ICCPR and other international human rights covenants. Indonesian “public order” and “public morals” are understood to consist of, among other things, respect and protection of religious values. While the emphasis on religious values and public order produces most restrictions, when it comes to limitations to FoRB on grounds of public health, the government seems reluctant to impose necessary restrictions.
Explanation of the Term cuo shu 蔖疋 on Strip No. 1 of the Yangtianhu 仰天湖 Bamboo Manuscript
Authors: Zhenwu Wu
Published: April 2020

There have been different explanations of the text written on strip no. 1 of the Chu bamboo slips excavated from Yangtianhu 仰天湖, Changsha 長沙, Hunan. Based on a newly published Warring States private seal inscription containing a two-word first name as well as the ancient habit of using loan graphs, this article suggests that the expression cuo shu
疋in the bamboo manuscript should be read as cuo ju 蔖苴, meaning “shoe insoles made of straw.”
The Usage of Yu 于 and Yu 於 in Warring States Period and Han Dynasty and the Transmission and Writing Habit of Classical Texts
Authors: Venture Olivier
Published: April 2020

The question of yu 于 and yu 於 in classical Chinese, as two characters often used to record the same grammatical word, has been debated for centuries. Scholars already proposed very detailed analysis related to some specific uses of each of them. Without questioning the existence of specialized usages of both characters in later text, the author proposes here to focus on the earliest evidences provided by inscriptions and manuscripts to understand the origin of their relationship. I conclude, with other scholars, that the difference in use between yu 于 and yu 於 is primarily a question of historical development of the language, the former appearing earlier than the latter. Moreover, the way both characters are used elucidates questions of transmission and attitudes on language use which go far beyond the linguistic frame.
An Ancient Medical Formula on the Liye Qin Slips and the Detoxification Recipe of dijiangshui 地漿水 (“Earth Elixir”) from the Later Ages
Authors: Youzu He
Published: April 2020

This article explains the words zhu
（煮）, zhi chuan di 之穿地, and ke 可 on the slips 8-1369 and 8-1937, pointing out the connection between this detoxification formula with a similar record in the Mawangdui silk edition of the *Wushi’er Bingfang. By sorting out the handing down of tujiang and similar detoxification recipes in literature through ages and making a comparison with the formula on the sequence 8-1369+8-1937, we can observe how the recipe has been transmitted.
Shang Yang’s Promotion of the County System and the County-Canton Relations: an Analysis Based on Official Titles, Salary Grades and the Size of the Employed Personnel
Authors: Wenbo Sun
Published: April 2020

The establishment of the county (xian 縣) system was the core of the second stage of Shang Yang’s reform. This reform was brought to completion through the institutionalization of office bailiffs with distinct salary grades (諸官有秩嗇夫). In investigating counties and cantons (xiang 鄉) we should pay attention to the operational background of “[county] court (ting 廷)—[county level] offices (guan 官).” The salary rank of Qin’s county leaders was relatively high, as it was equivalent to what would later be associated only with “major counties” (da xian 大縣). The appearance of the titles of [county] “heads” (zhang 長) and [canton] “bailiffs” (sefu 嗇夫) reflects the evolution of the salary grades of the county and canton officials. Based on the county’s and canton’s scale and on the number of registered households, the scope of personnel in Qin’s Qianling 遷陵 county was relatively large.
Two new species of Anthurium Schott (Araceae) from the Atlantic Forest in Minas Gerais, Brazil

Authors: HAMMES JANAINE K. , COELHO MARCUS A. N. , TEMPONI LÍVIA G. , LOMBARDI JULIO ANTONIO
Published: April 2020

Two new species of the genus Anthurium are described from the Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, in the Atlantic Forest region, southeastern Brazil. Anthurium atrovinosum was found from 1450 to 1720 m and A. brigadeiroense from 1260 to 1650 m. Although they are sympatric species, A. atrovinosum reaches higher elevations, while A. brigadeiroense can be found up to 1650 m. Both belong to Anthurium sect. Urospadix subsect. Insculptinervia, but are easily differentiated by the leaf blade shape, fruit color. Descriptions, illustrations, photographs, comments on geographical distribution, ecology, phenology and comparisons with other similar species are presented.
Redescription of Leiocapitella atlantica Hartman, 1965 and description of a new species from the Southeast Brazil (Annelida, Capitellidae)
Authors: DA SILVA CAMILA FERNANDA , AMARAL ANTONIA CECILIA ZACAGNINI
Published: April 2020

The genus Leiocapitella was described as having a wide variation on the number of thoracic chaetigers (13–17); however, this variation was added to the diagnosis of the genus based on undescribed species. A shortening in the range of variation of thoracic chaetigers is proposed until a re-examination of these species and a formal description be made. Currently, there are five valid species and a single species has been previously recorded in Brazil. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of this genus occurring in the Southeast Brazil. A new species has been found in samples collected on subtidal areas, Leiocapitella sensibilis sp. nov., and it is described and compared to other species of the genus. Leiocapitella atlantica Hartman, 1965 is redescribed after examination of the type material.
Three new species of the lacebug genus Tingiometra from Cretaceous Burmese amber (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae: Tingiometrinae)
Authors: GOLUB VIKTOR B. , HEISS ERNST
Published: April 2020

Three new fossil species of the genus Tingiometra Heiss et al., 2015 (T. pankowskii sp. nov., T. secunda sp. nov., T. yuripopovi sp. nov.) of the family Tingidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae: Tingiometrinae) from Cretaceous Burmese amber (northern Myanmar) are described and illustrated. Features of similarities and differences between the four known Tingiometra species are discussed and a key to species is provided.
An overview of Scirtidae (Coleoptera) described by Antoine Joseph Jean Solier (1792–1851)
Authors: RUTA RAFAŁ
Published: April 2020

In 1849 a French entomologist, Antoine Solier, described 11 species of Scirtidae collected in Chile by Claude Gay. Based on examination of type specimens deposited in the Museum national d’Histoire naturelle (MNHN) in Paris, 9 species: Contacyphon luteolineatus, C. parvus, C. tristis, Pseudomicrocara lunata, P. obliquata, P. torquata, and Elodes rousseli are briefly described with emphasis on male or female genitalia. Morphological details are illustrated. Type specimens of two species: Contacyphon maculatus and Elodes velutina were not found in the collection of MNHN. Two new synonyms were established: Contacyphon maculicornis (Solier, 1849) is a junior synonym of Pseudomicrocara patagonica (Curtis, 1838), and Cyphon testaceus Solier, 1849 is a junior synonym of Pseudomicrocara livida (Fabricius, 1775). Lectotypes of most species described by Solier are designated.
ENSO Teleconnections and Impacts on U.S. Summertime Temperature during a Multiyear La Niña Life Cycle
Authors: Jong Bor-Ting , Ting Mingfang , Seager Richard , Anderson Weston B.
Published: April 2020

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) teleconnections have been recognized as possible negative influences on crop yields in the United States during the summer growing season, especially in a developing La Niña summer. This study examines the physical processes of the ENSO summer teleconnections and remote impacts on the United States during a multiyear La Niña life cycle. Since 1950, a developing La Niña summer is either when an El Niño is transitioning to a La Niña or when a La Niña is persisting. Due to the distinct prior ENSO conditions, the oceanic and atmospheric characteristics in the tropics are dissimilar in these two different La Niña summers, leading to different teleconnection patterns. During the transitioning summer, the decaying El Niño and the developing La Niña induce suppressed deep convection over both the subtropical western Pacific (WP) and the tropical central Pacific (CP). Both of these two suppressed convection regions induce Rossby wave propagation extending toward North America, resulting in a statistically significant anomalous anticyclone over northeastern North America and, therefore, a robust warming signal over the Midwest. In contrast, during the persisting summer, only one suppressed convection region is present over the tropical CP induced by the La Niña SST forcing, resulting in a weak and insignificant extratropical teleconnection. Experiments from a stationary wave model confirm that the suppressed convection over the subtropical WP during the transitioning summer not only contributes substantially to the robust warming over the Midwest but also causes the teleconnections to be different from those in the persisting summer.
Perception of Impact of Frequent Short Training as an Enhancement of Annual Refresher Training
Authors: Ruttenberg Ruth , Raynor Peter C. , Tobey Scott , Rice Carol
Published: April 2020

Introduction of facilitated hands-on drills as often as monthly and the use of online modules prior to annual refresher training for emergency response teams were investigated through surveys and group discussions. This research explores how these drills are perceived by emergency response team members, emergency response team coordinators, instructors, and management at the company. Using these tools throughout the year, members of emergency response teams from automobile manufacturing facilities reported an increased ability to maintain their skill sets, build teamwork, and continually refresh and strengthen their ability to protect their fellow workers as well as plant operations and equipment. The results also document examples of how this innovative program that incorporates frequent training has led to workplace improvements.
SF3B1-mutant MDS as a distinct disease subtype: a proposal from the International Working Group for the Prognosis of MDS
Authors: Malcovati Luca , Stevenson Kristen , Papaemmanuil Elli , Neuberg Donna , Bejar Rafael , Boultwood Jacqueline , Bowen David T. , Campbell Peter J. , Ebert Benjamin L. , Fenaux Pierre , Haferlach Torsten , Heuser Michael , Jansen Joop H. , Komrokji Rami S. , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Walter Matthew J. , Fontenay Michaela , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Graubert Timothy A. , Karsan Aly , Meggendorfer Manja , Pellagatti Andrea , Sallman David A. , Savona Michael R. , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Steensma David P. , Tauro Sudhir , Thol Felicitas , Vyas Paresh , Van de Loosdrecht Arjan A. , Haase Detlef , Tüchler Heinz , Greenberg Peter L. , Ogawa Seishi , Hellstrom-Lindberg Eva , Cazzola Mario
Published: April 2020

The 2016 revision of the World Health Organization classification of tumors of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues is characterized by a closer integration of morphology and molecular genetics. Notwithstanding, the myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with isolated del(5q) remains so far the only MDS subtype defined by a genetic abnormality. Approximately half of MDS patients carry somatic mutations in spliceosome genes, with SF3B1 being the most commonly mutated one. SF3B1 mutation identifies a condition characterized by ring sideroblasts (RS), ineffective erythropoiesis, and indolent clinical course. A large body of evidence supports recognition of SF3B1-mutant MDS as a distinct nosologic entity. To further validate this notion, we interrogated the data set of the International Working Group for the Prognosis of MDS (IWG-PM). Based on the findings of our analyses, we propose the following diagnostic criteria for SF3B1-mutant MDS: (1) cytopenia as defined by standard hematologic values, (2) somatic SF3B1 mutation, (3) morphologic dysplasia (with or without RS), and (4) bone marrow blasts <5% and peripheral blood blasts <1%. Selected concomitant genetic lesions represent exclusion criteria for the proposed entity. In patients with clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance, SF3B1 mutation is almost invariably associated with subsequent development of overt MDS with RS, suggesting that this genetic lesion might provide presumptive evidence of MDS in the setting of persistent unexplained cytopenia. Diagnosis of SF3B1-mutant MDS has considerable clinical implications in terms of risk stratification and therapeutic decision making. In fact, this condition has a relatively good prognosis and may respond to luspatercept with abolishment of the transfusion requirement.
vivaGen – a survival data set generator for software testing
Authors: Gietzelt Matthias , Karmen Christian , Knaup-Gregori Petra , Ganzinger Matthias
Published: April 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Predicting potential adverse events using safety data from marketed drugs
Authors: Daluwatte Chathuri , Schotland Peter , Strauss David G. , Burkhart Keith K. , Racz Rebecca
Published: April 2020

Background

While clinical trials are considered the gold standard for detecting adverse events, often these trials are not sufficiently powered to detect difficult to observe adverse events. We developed a preliminary approach to predict 135 adverse events using post-market safety data from marketed drugs. Adverse event information available from FDA product labels and scientific literature for drugs that have the same activity at one or more of the same targets, structural and target similarities, and the duration of post market experience were used as features for a classifier algorithm. The proposed method was studied using 54 drugs and a probabilistic approach of performance evaluation using bootstrapping with 10,000 iterations.

Results

Out of 135 adverse events, 53 had high probability of having high positive predictive value. Cross validation showed that 32% of the model-predicted safety label changes occurred within four to nine years of approval (median: six years).

Conclusions

This approach predicts 53 serious adverse events with high positive predictive values where well-characterized target-event relationships exist. Adverse events with well-defined target-event associations were better predicted compared to adverse events that may be idiosyncratic or related to secondary target effects that were poorly captured. Further enhancement of this model with additional features, such as target prediction and drug binding data, may increase accuracy.
Association between extracellular volume control and survival in patients on short daily haemodialysis
Authors: Barra Ana Beatriz Lesqueves , Roque-da-Silva Ana Paula , Vasconcellos Marcos S. , Lugon Jocemir R. , Strogoff-de-Matos Jorge Paulo
Published: April 2020

Background

Fluid overload (FO) assessed by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is associated with higher mortality risk in maintenance haemodialysis (HD). The aim was to assess if a better management of FO through short daily haemodialysis (SDHD) could improve survival.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients who were on HD 3 sessions/week for at least 3 months and shifted to in-centre SDHD (5 or 6 sessions/week, 2 to 3 h/session) between July 2012 and June 2016 at 23 dialysis units in Brazil. The 12-month risk of death was analysed according to the predialysis hydration status measured before and 6 months after initiation of SDHD. Predialysis hydration status was considered adequate when FO ≤15% of extracellular volume.

Results

A total of 297 patients on SDHD were included in the analysis. Their median age was 57 (IQR 45–67) years, 62% were males, 44% diabetics, 57% on 6 dialysis sessions/week, with a median session duration of 130 (IQR 120–150) minutes. BIS assessment at initiation of the SDHD regimen was performed in 220 patients and FO > 15% was found in 46.4%. Twelve-month survival rates for those with FO ≤15 and > 15% before initiating SDHD were 87.4 and 88.0%, respectively (P = 0.92). BIS analysis when completing 6 months on SDHD were available for 229 patients, 26.6% with FO > 15%. The survival rates for the next 12 months (from the 6th to the 18th month of follow-up) for those with FO ≤15 and > 15% were 91.0 and 72.0%, respectively (P = 0.0006). In a Cox regression model, after adjustment for demographic, clinical and laboratory variables, FO ≤ 15% persisted associated with a lower mortality risk (hazard ratio 0.34, 95%CI 0.13–0.87).

Conclusions

Moving from conventional HD to SDHD was associated with better control of excessive extracellular volume. Patients who reached or maintained predialysis fluid overload ≤15% after initiating SDHD presented a lower risk of death.
The experiences of mothers with preterm infants within the first-year post discharge from NICU: social support, attachment and level of depressive symptoms
Authors: Leahy-Warren Patricia , Coleman Chelsea , Bradley Róisín , Mulcahy Helen
Published: April 2020

Background

The estimated global premature birth rate for 2014 was 10.6%, equating to an estimate of 14.84 million live premature births. The experience of premature birth does not impact solely on the infant and mother as individuals but occurs in the context of a critical point in time when they are developing a relationship with one another. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between social support, mother to infant attachment, and depressive symptoms of mothers with preterm infants within the first 12 months’ post discharge from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Methods

A correlational cross-sectional study design was used. Data were collected using a four-part online survey which included the Perinatal Social Support Questionnaire (PICSS), Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale (MPAS) and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) with mothers of preterm infants (n = 140).

Results

The prevalence of postnatal depression was 37.9% (95% CI: 29.8 to 46.4%). In univariable analyses, history of depression (p = 0.005), aged 35–39 years (p = 0.006), no formal social support (p = 0.040), less informal social supports (p = 0.018), lower overall maternal attachment (p < 0.001) and lower overall functional social support (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with a higher level of depressive symptoms. Lower scores on two of the maternal attachment subscales (quality of attachment and absence of hostility) and all four of the functional social support subscales were significantly associated with a higher level of depressive symptoms (p < 0.001 for all). In the multivariable analysis, prior history of depression (p = 0.028), lower score of maternal attachment (p < 0.001) and lower emotional functional social support (p = 0.030) were significantly associated with a higher level of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Women who experience a premature birth, have a prior history of depression, poor infant attachment and poor emotional social support have a higher level of depressive symptoms. Results emphasise the need for professionals to encourage mobilisation of maternal formal and informal social supports. It is important to intervene early to address maternal emotional well-being and enhance the developing mother-preterm infant relationship.
Ethnicity, religious affiliation and girl-child marriage: a cross-sectional study of nationally representative sample of female adolescents in Nigeria
Authors: Mobolaji Jacob Wale , Fatusi Adesegun O. , Adedini Sunday A.
Published: April 2020

Background

The persistently high prevalence of girl-child marriage remains a public health and developmental concern in Nigeria. Despite global campaign against the practice and policy efforts by Nigerian government, the prevalence remains unabated. This study investigates the prevalence and the influence of ethnicity and religious affiliation on the girl-child marriage among female adolescents in Nigeria.

Methods

Data of 7804 girls aged 15–19 years extracted from the 2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey were used. Ethnic groups were classified into five: major Northern ethnic group (Hausa/Fulani); Northern ethnic minorities; two major Southern ethnic groups (Yoruba and Igbo), and Southern ethnic minorities. The prevalence of girl-child marriage was determined for the five ethnic groups and individually for each ethnic minority group. Relationships between ethnicity and religious affiliation on girl-child marriage were explored using Cox proportional hazard regression models, adjusting for residence, education and wealth quintile.

Results

Child marriage was higher for the Northern majority ethnic group of Hausa/Fulani (54.8%) compared to the two major Southern ethnic groups (3.0–3.6%) and aggregated Northern ethnic minorities (25.7%) and Southern minorities (5.9%). However, overall, the less known Northern ethnic minority groups of Kambari (74.9%) and Fulfude (73.8%) recorded the highest prevalence. Compared to the major Southern ethnic group of Yoruba, the adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) of child marriage was significantly higher for Northern ethnic minorities (AHR = 2.50; 95% C.I. = 1.59–3.95) and Northern major ethnicity (AHR = 3.67, 95% C.I. = 2.33–5.77). No significant difference was recorded among Southern ethnic groups. Girls affiliated to other religions (Muslim and traditionalist) had higher child-marriage risks compared to Christians (AHR = 2.10; 95% C.I. = 1.54–2.86).

Conclusion

Ethnicity and religion have independent associations with girl-child marriage in Nigeria; interventions must address culturally-laden social norms that vary by ethnic groups as well as religious-related beliefs.
LncRNA WT1-AS over-expression inhibits non-small cell lung cancer cell stemness by down-regulating TGF-β1
Authors: Jiang Xueqin , Wang Jiong , Fang Lei
Published: April 2020

Background

LncRNA WT1-AS is a recently identified potential tumor suppressor in gastric cancer. This study mainly explored the role of WT1-AS in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

WT1-AS and TGF-β1 mRNA in two types of tissues of 74 NSCLC patients were detected by performing RT-qPCR experiments. WT1-AS and TGF-β1 expression vectors were established using the pcDNA3.1 vector. Protein concentration was measured by BCA assay. Mean values in this study were calculated using the data of three biological replicates of each experiment.

Results

We found that WT1-AS was down-regulated, while TGF-β1 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues. Survival analysis showed that low levels of WT1-AS expression predicted poor survival of NSCLC patients. WT1-AS and TGF-β1 were inversely correlated in NSCLC tissues. Over-expression experiments revealed down-regulated TGF-β1 after WT1-AS over-expression, while TGF-β1 over-expression failed to affect WT1-AS. WT1-AS over-expression resulted in inhibited cancer cell stemness. TGF-β1 over-expression played an opposite role and attenuated the effects of TGF-β1 over-expression.

Conclusion

Therefore, WT1-AS over-expression may inhibit non-small cell lung cancer cell stemness by down-regulating TGF-β1.

Trial registration

The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University Ethics committee approved this study (AHMU20101009).
Clinical impact of advanced chronic kidney disease in patients with non-HIV pulmonary cryptococcosis
Authors: Tashiro Hiroki , Haraguchi Tetsuro , Takahashi Koichiro , Sadamatsu Hironori , Tajiri Ryo , Takamori Ayako , Kimura Shinya , Sueoka-Aragane Naoko
Published: April 2020

Background

Pulmonary cryptococcosis is an uncommon infectious disease that can develop in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. The severity of chronic kidney disease (CKD) was reported to be one of the risk factors for pulmonary cryptococcosis, but its clinical characteristics have not been fully assessed. The purpose of this study was to clarify the clinical characteristics of advanced CKD in patients with pulmonary cryptococcosis.

Methods

The present study retrospectively investigated 56 patients who had non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pulmonary cryptococcosis and were treated at Saga University Hospital between 2005 and 2018. The clinical characteristics were evaluated and compared between patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) > 45 mL/min/1.73 m2(n = 42, early CKD) and those with eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2(n = 14, advanced CKD.

Results

Compared with patients with early CKD, those with advanced CKD had significantly higher rate of disseminated cryptococcosis (21.4% vs. 2.4%,p = 0.03); lower percentage of patients who recovered after treatment (63.6% vs. 92.5%,p = 0.02); and more frequent clinical features of fever (57.1% vs. 19.0%,p < 0.01), pleural effusion (21.4% vs. 2.4%,p = 0.03), high white blood cell count (8550/mL vs. 6150/mL,p = 0.01) and C-reactive protein (CRP) (2.1 mg/dL vs. 0.2 mg/dL,p = 0.02), and low level of serum albumin (3.0 g/dL vs. 3.8 g/dL,p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis adjusted by immunosuppressive drug use indicated the significant factors of fever (odds ratio or β value [95% confidence interval] 6.4 [1.65–20.09],p < 0.01), high white blood cell count (1293.2 [110.2–2476.2],p = 0.03), C-reactive protein (0.89 [0.18–1.59],p = 0.01) and low level of serum albumin (− 0.34 [− 0.54 – − 0.14],p < 0.01) in patients with eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73m2.

Conclusion

Advanced CKD was associated with poor clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with non-HIV pulmonary cryptococcosis.

Trial registration

The patients in this study were registered retrospectively.
Reconstruction of finger joints using autologous rib perichondrium – an observational study at a single Centre with a median follow-up of 37 years
Authors: Muder Daniel , Nilsson Ola , Vedung Torbjörn
Published: April 2020

Background

Gratifying long-term results are difficult to achieve when reconstructing osteoarthritic finger joints. Implant surgery is the most commonly used method to restore function and dexterity. However, all types of implant have disadvantages and may be a less favorable option in some cases, especially in young patients with a long expected lifetime and high demands on manual load. Implant related complications as loosening, instability, subsidence and stiffness are the main concerns. In this context, joint reconstruction using rib perichondrium might be a reasonable alternative in selected cases. The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term results of finger joint reconstruction using rib perichondrial transplantation.

Methods

The study group (n = 11) consisted of eight individuals reconstructed in the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints and three reconstructed in the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints during 1974–1981. All patients were evaluated at clinical visits (median: 37 years after perichondrial transplantation, range: 34–41 years) using radiographs, disability in arm-shoulder-hand (DASH) score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), range-of-motion (ROM) and manual strength (JAMAR).

Results

None of the 11 patients had undergone additional surgery. All of the PIP-joints (n = 8) were almost pain-free at activity (VAS 0,6) (range 0–4), had an average range-of-motion of 41 degrees (range 5–80) and a mean DASH-score of 8,3 (range 1–51). The mean strength was 41 kg compared to 44 kg in the contralateral hand (93%). The three MCP joints were almost pain-free at activity (VAS 0,7), (range 0–1). The ROM was on average 80 degrees (range 70–90) and the mean DASH-score was 2 (range 1–3). The mean strength was 43 kg compared to 53 kg in the contralateral hand (81%).

Conclusions

Perichondrium transplants restored injured PIP and MCP joints that remained essentially pain-free and mostly well-functioning without need for additional surgeries up to 41 years after the procedure. Additional studies are needed to evaluate long-term results in comparison to modern implants and to better describe the factors that determine the outcome of these procedures.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Therapeutic Study.
The inhibiting effects of resistance to change of disability determination system: a status quo bias perspective
Authors: Chi Wen-Chou , Lin Po-Jin , Chang I-Chiu , Chen Sing-Liang
Published: April 2020

Background

Information systems implementation projects have been historically plagued by failures for which user resistance has consistently been identified as a salient reason. Most prior studies investigated either the causes or the consequences of Resistance to Change (RTC) of medical related Information Systems. In this study, we simultaneously explore the causes and impacts of RTC of Disability Determination System (DDS).

Methods

This study adopts the Status Quo Bias perspective and combines the information systems usage model and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as theoretical foundation to investigates the causes and impacts of users’ RTC on their intention to use the DDS. Data were obtained through internet questionnaire survey. Totally, 326 respondents from 22 local governments and 142 hospitals were collected, of which 252 were valid samples and were analyzed using structure model analysis.

Results

The research model is proved with eight out of 11 hypotheses being supported. The antecedents of RTC can explain 21.4% of the RTC variation, and the RTC impacts can explain 57.5% of the variation of intention to use DDS.

Conclusions

Combining the Status Quo Bias perspective and key component of TAM provides an adequate explanation of adopting intention of changing systems and extend the existing knowledge of information systems adoption. The results provide as a reference for managing users’ RTC and enhance the effects and efficiency of new systems adoption.
Home care quality indicators based on the Resident Assessment Instrument-Home Care (RAI-HC): a systematic review
Authors: Wagner Aylin , Schaffert René , Möckli Nathalie , Zúñiga Franziska , Dratva Julia
Published: April 2020

Background

One way of measuring the quality of home care are quality indicators (QIs) derived from data collected with the Resident Assessment Instrument-Home Care (RAI-HC). In order to produce meaningful results for quality improvement and quality comparisons across home care organizations (HCOs) and over time, RAI-HC QIs must be valid and reliable. The aim of this systematic review was to identify currently existing RAI-HC QIs and to summarize the scientific knowledge on the validity and reliability of these QIs.

Methods

A systematic review was performed using the electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library. Studies describing the development process or the psychometric characteristics of RAI-HC QIs were eligible. The data extraction involved a general description of the included studies as well as the identified RAI-HC QIs and information on validity and reliability. The methodological quality of the identified RAI-HC QI sets was assessed using the Appraisal of Indicators through Research and Evaluation (AIRE) instrument.

Results

Four studies out of 659 initial hits met the inclusion criteria. The included studies described the development and validation process of three RAI-HC QI sets comprising 48 unique RAI-HC QIs, which predominantly refer to outcome of care. Overall, the validity and reliability of the identified RAI-HC QIs were not sufficiently tested. The methodological quality of the three identified RAI-HC QI sets varied across the four AIRE instrument domains. None of the QI sets reached high methodological quality, defined as scores of 50% and higher in all four AIRE instrument domains.

Conclusions

This is the first review that systematically summarized and appraised the available scientific evidence on the validity and reliability of RAI-HC QIs. It identified insufficient reporting of RAI-HC QIs validation processes and reliability as well as missing state-of-the-art methodologies. The review provides guidance as to what additional validity and reliability testing are needed to strengthen the scientific soundness of RAI-HC QIs. Considering that RAI-HC QIs are already implemented and used to measure and compare quality of home care, further investigations on RAI-HC QIs reliability and validity is recommended.
Macromolecular crowding links ribosomal protein gene dosage to growth rate in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Soler-Bistué Alfonso , Aguilar-Pierlé Sebastián , Garcia-Garcerá Marc , Val Marie-Eve , Sismeiro Odile , Varet Hugo , Sieira Rodrigo , Krin Evelyne , Skovgaard Ole , Comerci Diego J. , Rocha Eduardo P. C. , Mazel Didier
Published: April 2020

Background

In fast-growing bacteria, the genomic location of ribosomal protein (RP) genes is biased towards the replication origin (oriC). This trait allows optimizing their expression during exponential phase sinceoriCneighboring regions are in higher dose due to multifork replication. Relocation ofs10-spc-αlocus (S10), which codes for most of the RP, to ectopic genomic positions shows that its relative distance to theoriCcorrelates to a reduction on its dosage, its expression, and bacterial growth rate. However, a mechanism linking S10 dosage to cell physiology has still not been determined.

Results

We hypothesized that S10 dosage perturbations impact protein synthesis capacity. Strikingly, we observed that inVibrio cholerae, protein production capacity was independent of S10 position. Deep sequencing revealed that S10 relocation altered chromosomal replication dynamics and genome-wide transcription. Such changes increased as a function oforiC-S10 distance. Since RP constitutes a large proportion of cell mass, lower S10 dosage could lead to changes in macromolecular crowding, impacting cell physiology. Accordingly, cytoplasm fluidity was higher in mutants where S10 is most distant fromoriC. In hyperosmotic conditions, when crowding differences are minimized, the growth rate and replication dynamics were highly alleviated in these strains.

Conclusions

The genomic location of RP genes ensures its optimal dosage. However, besides of its essential function in translation, their genomic position sustains an optimal macromolecular crowding essential for maximizing growth. Hence, this could be another mechanism coordinating DNA replication to bacterial growth.
Recent insights into eukaryotic translation initiation factors 5A1 and 5A2 and their roles in human health and disease
Authors: Wu Gao-Qi , Xu Yan-Ming , Lau Andy T. Y.
Published: April 2020

The eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A1 (eIF5A1) and its homolog eIF5A2 are the only two human proteins containing the unique post-translational modification–hypusination, which is essential for the function of these two proteins. eIF5A1 was initially identified as a translation initiation factor by promoting the first peptide bond formation of protein during translation; however, recent results suggest that eIF5A1 also functions as a translation elongation factor. It has been shown that eIF5A1 is implicated in certain human diseases, including diabetes, several human cancer types, viral infections and diseases of neural system. Meanwhile, eIF5A2 is overexpressed in many cancers, and plays an important role in the development and progression of cancers. As multiple roles of these two factors were observed among these studies, therefore, it remains unclear whether they act as oncogene or tumor suppressor. In this review, the recent literature of eIF5As and their roles in human diseases, especially in human cancers, will be discussed.
The use of a task through virtual reality in cerebral palsy using two different interaction devices (concrete and abstract) – a cross-sectional randomized study
Authors: Leal Andréa Fernanda , da Silva Talita Dias , Lopes Priscila Bianchi , Bahadori Shayan , de Araújo Luciano Vieira , da Costa Murillo Vinicius Brandão , de Moraes Íbis Ariana Peña , Marques Ricardo Henrique , Crocetta Tania Brusque , de Abreu Luiz Carlos , Monteiro Carlos Bandeira de Mello
Published: April 2020

Background

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is characterised by variable difficulties in muscular action, resulting in inability of the individual to perform functional movement. An option to provide functionality to the individual with CP is the use of computer innovation. The aim of this paper was to verify if there was any performance improvement in a task performed in a virtual environment and if there was transfer to the task performed in the real environment and vice versa in this population.

Methods

A computer program was developed comprising a motor task, but with two possibilities of user interaction: a) concrete interface (with physical contact): in which the individual touches the computer screen to finish the task and b) abstract interface (no physical contact): in which the individual performs a hand movement in front of the Kinect device. Participants were split into two groups. The experimental group consisted of 28 individuals with CP within the ages of 6 and 15 years old. The control group included 28 typically developing individuals mirroring the age and sex of the experimental group.

Results

Individuals from both groups were able to improve task performance and retain acquired information. The CP group presented worse performance than the control group in all phases of the study. Further findings showed that the CP group presented better performance in the abstract interface than in the concrete interface, whereas, in the control group, the opposite occurred: their best performance was in the concrete.

Conclusions

Motor tasks performed by individuals with CP through an interface with a more virtual environment feature (abstract interface: Kinect) provided better performance when compared to an interface with a more real characteristic (concrete interface: Touchscreen).

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier - NCT03352440; Date of registration - November 17, 2017.
Psychological, social, and motivational factors in persons who use drugs
Authors: Shahrabadi Sana , Jalali Amir , Jalali Rostam , Gholami Ali
Published: April 2020

Background

Persons who use drug need family and society’s support in the process of treatment and rehabilitation. Therefore, it is imperative to determine the psychological, social, and motivational factors that can help them in the treatment process. The present study was an attempt to determine the relationship between psychological, social, and motivational factors and the demographics of persons who use drugs (PWUD).

Methods

An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out. TCU psychological functioning and motivation scales for the PWUD was first translated into Farsi and validated after securing permission from the copyright holder of the tool. Participants were 250 PWUDs under methadone therapy who were selected through convenient sampling. Before analyzing the collected data, validity and reliability of the tool were confirmed using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses. Given the scale of demographical data, descriptive and analytic statistics were used to analyze the relationship between demographical variables and psychological, social, and motivational factors.

Results

The results of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses showed that out of 83 statements in the original questionnaire, 55 statements categorized into 11 aspects were usable for Iranian population. The results showed that gender, income, and marital status affect psychological functioning of the PWUD (P < 0.05). However, education level, place of residence, and type of drug and consumption did not have a significant relationship with social functioning of the participants (p > 0.05). There was a significant relationship between age, number of children, and history of using drug and psychological functioning of the participants (P < 0.01). The results showed that the demographics did not have a notable effect on the participants’ motivation for treatment; only marital status had a significant relationship with the participants’ treatment readiness (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

As the results showed, the demographical variables could affect physical, psychological, and social functioning in the participants.
Risk factors and treatments for disseminated intravascular coagulation in neonates
Authors: Go Hayato , Ohto Hitoshi , Nollet Kenneth E. , Kashiwabara Nozomi , Ogasawara Kei , Chishiki Mina , Hiruta Shun , Sakuma Ichiri , Kawasaki Yukihiko , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: April 2020

Background

Although disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a critical disease, there is few gold standard interventions in neonatal medicine. The aim of this study is to reveal factors affecting neonatal DIC at birth and to assess the effectiveness of rTM and FFP for DIC in neonates at birth.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated DIC score on the first day of life in neonates with underlying conditions associated with DIC. DIC in neonates was diagnosed according to Japan Society of Obstetrical, Gynecological & Neonatal Hematology 2016 neonatal DIC criteria.

Results

Comparing neonates with DIC scores of ≥3 (n = 103) to those < 3 (n = 263), SGA, birth asphyxia, low Apgar score, hemangioma, hydrops, PIH, and PA were statistically increased. Among 55 neonates underwent DIC treatment, 53 had birth asphyxia and 12 had intraventricular hemorrhage. Forty-one neonates received FFP or a combination of FFP and antithrombin (FFP group), while 14 neonates received rTM or a combination of rTM, FFP, and antithrombin (rTM group). DIC score before treatment in the rTM group was significantly higher than in the FFP group (4.7 vs 3.6, P < 0.05). After treatment, DIC scores in both groups were significantly reduced on Day 1 and Day 2 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Among various factors associated with DIC in neonates at birth, birth asphyxia is particularly significant. Furthermore, rTM in combination with FFP therapy was effective for neonatal DIC at birth.
Expectations and psychological issues before genetic counseling: analysis of distress determinant factors
Authors: Ballatore Zelmira , Bracci Raffaella , Maccaroni Elena , Svarca Lucia , Bianchi Francesca , Belvederesi Laura , Brugiati Cristiana , Pagliaretta Silvia , Murrone Alberto , Bini Federica , Pistelli Mirco , Ricci Giulia , Berardi Rossana
Published: April 2020

Background

Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) are the most common hereditary cancer syndromes in which a genetic test is available. Potential risks associated with testing include psychological harm, emotional distress and insurance problems.

Methods

The aim of the present study is to investigate determinants of distress in a sample of Italian subjects undergoing genetic counseling. Demographic information and psychological distress were assessed by using a self-reported questionnaire and the “Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale” (HAD), before attending the first counseling session.

Results

Of the all subjects referred for the first time to our Center (January 2012–June 2013), a total of 227 were eligible (female/male = 174/53) for the survey, 134 (59%) were oncologic patients and of these, 116 received genetic test (36 for HNPCC and 80 for HBOC). The remaining 93 (41%) were healthy subjects referred for suspected familiar history and of this group, 65 subjects performed predictive test in a family with a known pathogenic mutation (53 for HBOC and 12 for HNPCC). Affected subjects had a significantly higher level of anxiety (p = 0.02) and HAD global score (p = 0.01) than healthy ones. There was no difference in HAD score between individuals testing for different syndromes (p = 0.3). In the affected subgroup, there was a significant linear correlation between the HAD anxiety score and how much subjects perceived their disease as hereditary (p = 0.01). Female and younger subjects had higher levels of anxiety (p = 0.05). Also healthy single subjects show more general distress (p = 0.02) than those with a partner.

Conclusions

Greater level of distress identified on females, single and younger subjects.
Norm of Hilbert operator on sequence spaces
Authors: Roopaei Hadi
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we focus on the problem of finding the norm of Hilbert operator on some sequence spaces. Meanwhile, we obtain several interesting inequalities and inclusions.