bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in adaptive and maladaptive psychosocial responses to chronic pain among adults with varying physical activity levels
Authors: Cary Miranda A , Gyurcsik Nancy C
Published: July 2020

Aim:

Chronic pain is a global public health problem that detrimentally impacts people’s health and well-being. Physical activity is beneficial and a recommended self-management strategy for adults living with chronic pain. Yet, many of them struggle to meet the public health recommendation of 150+ minutes/week of moderate–vigorous physical activity. Identifying modifiable factors related to physical activity participation is needed. Adaptive (i.e., self-regulatory efficacy to overcome pain and related barriers [SRE-pain], psychological flexibility) and maladaptive (i.e. pain anxiety) responses were the modifiable factors examined in the present study. The purpose was to investigate whether adults living with chronic pain who were sufficiently active, insufficiently active or inactive significantly differed in their adaptive and maladaptive responses to chronic pain.

Methods:

Adults with self-reported chronic pain for 6+ months ( N = 318) completed an online survey that measured physical activity, psychological flexibility, SRE-pain and pain anxiety. Sufficiently active ( n = 139), insufficiently active ( n = 91) and inactive ( n = 88) groups were identified.

Results:

A significant multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) ( p < .001) with univariate follow-up tests illustrated that the sufficiently active individuals reported the highest psychological flexibility and SRE-pain compared to insufficiently active and inactive individuals ( p’s < .001). Overall, sufficiently active participants responded the most adaptively and least maladaptively to their pain, followed by the insufficiently active. Inactive participants responded the most maladaptively.

Conclusion:

Identifying differences in adaptive and maladaptive responses to pain highlights possible modifiable factors to target in future physical activity intervention research that focuses on improving chronic pain self-management.
A rare case of eosinophilic cholangiopathy
Authors: Li Wenya , Jiang Feizhao , Li Xiaoxiao , Li Hong , Zheng Zhihai
Published: July 2020

Eosinophilic cholangiopathy is termed as a rare, benign, and self-limiting disease. Moreover, the interference of malignant tumor to diagnosis and the changing process of disease make the accurate treatment proposal challenging. A significant number of patients require surgery for the definitive diagnosis and resolution of symptoms. We put forward a case of eosinophilic cholangiopathy infiltrating the gallbladder and bile duct with bone marrow involved, coupled with peripheral eosinophilia. The patient underwent a successful treatment using laparoscopic cholecystectomy and steroids, instead of extrahepatic bile duct excision with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. The patient gets an accurate treatment in a minimally invasive manner. In conclusion, surgery refers to not only a diagnostic methodology but also a treatment. When the bile duct and gallbladder are involved at the same time, and cannot distinguish benign and malignant diseases, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is feasible, the effect is the same, and the symptoms of eosinophilic cholecystitis are relieved.
Techniques, Methods, and Dissemination of Community-Based Psychological Support Strategies in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Benecke Anke-Verena , Bäuerle Alexander , Jansen Christoph , Schneider Johanna Sophie , Dörrie Nora , Teufel Martin , Skoda Eva-Maria
Published: July 2020

In times of the coronavirus pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 psychological support needs to meet certain requirements. Due to the lockdown in many countries of the world, the every-day activities of millions of people are reduced to a minimum. This may cause increased psychosomatic symptoms in persons with pre-existing mental illnesses, and additionally raises new challenges for the general population. As a result of the current contact restrictions, access to psychotherapy is further complicated. To guarantee the best possible care under the given conditions, we developed the CoPE (Coping with Corona: Extended Psychosomatic care in Essen) concept. CoPE is delivered by telephone or video calls as well as online contents. The materials presented at our webpage www.cope-corona.de aim to easily reach citizens affected by symptoms such as worries, depression or anger and let them receive readily understandable expert knowledge and training in basic self-help methods.
Unemployment Blues: Analysis of the Dual Mediating Effects of Knowledge and Perception on Entrepreneurial Intentions in the Environment
Authors: Essel Edwina Oheneasi , Min Wang , Essel Charles Hackman , Dumor Koffi
Published: July 2020

The rate of youth unemployment has been a major challenge for preceding and consecutive Ghanaian governments. There is evidence to suggest how different economic interventions to bridge this gap have failed to yield the expected results. The intended beneficiaries of these interventions are caught in a quagmire of what they perceive as opportunities within the environment which are sometimes divergent from that of government. This is due to the influencing role of two main factors: their knowledge and perception. We carry out a study to reveal the relationship that exist between entrepreneurial environment and entrepreneurial intentions and how knowledge and perception of the youth mediate this relationship. A sample survey of 187 youth using questionnaires were administered and the results analyzed using the partial least squares–structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Overall, entrepreneurial knowledge and perception variables showed a partial mediation in their relationship with entrepreneurial environment and entrepreneurial intention. Entrepreneurial perception showed a higher mediating effect of the two mediators on the target construct, entrepreneurial intention. Entrepreneurial perception showed the highest Cronbach’s alpha of .90 of all the variables. We advance the theory of entrepreneurship intention to show how the dual mediating interactivities are influenced by the entrepreneurship environment. The need to build a supportive entrepreneurial environment is critical in transforming the youth perception to boost their knowledge in entrepreneurship to engage in business enterprises. These are critical for policy makers, implementers, and entrepreneurial trainers.
Ascorbate as Prophylaxis and Therapy for COVID-19—Update From Shanghai and U.S. Medical Institutions
Authors: Cheng Richard Z , Kogan Mikhail , Davis Devra
Published: July 2020

Background

No validated treatments have been identified for the COVID-19 pandemic virus; several are currently in randomized clinical trials. Diagnostic instruments are rapidly evolving. Symptoms range from those of a common cold to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), to sepsis arising from the flood of inflammatory bacterial and viral pathogens in the blood. Mortality generally arises from cytokine storms of uncontrolled inflammation, oxidative injury, and damage to the alveolar-capillary barrier, with secondary bacterial infection. To address the indisputably urgent need for therapeutics for COVID-19, a specialized interdisciplinary medical panel convened in Shanghai in March 2020 to consider all relevant clinical and experimental evidence on the possible utility of intravenous (IV) ascorbate in the treatment of COVID-19-related ARDS.

Methods

The panel convened multidisciplinary medical experts and reviewed all relevant in vitro, in vivo, clinical studies and randomized controlled trials on IV ascorbate and issued a consensus report on 23 March 2020 noting that substantial differences in serum concentrations of ascorbate are achieved through IV administration in contrast with the oral route.

Findings

The Shanghai panel, and a parallel medical group in Guangzhou, are advising the use of high-dose IV ascorbate for the treatment of ARDS, along with other supportive therapies, including Vitamin D and zinc. We report preliminary progress in using this treatment for 50 consecutive cases treated in Shanghai hospitals, consistent with earlier reports from a meta-analysis of the use of IV ascorbate to treat sepsis. We provide an instructive clinical anecdote regarding a single family where one elderly member with cardiac and other major comorbidities developed and survived ARDS-related sepsis following daily treatments that included 15 g of IV ascorbate. None of her adult caregivers who had ingested between 2 and 10 g of ascorbate daily developed COVID-19.
Shared Space: How North American Olympic Broadcasters Framed Gender on Instagram
Authors: Johnson Rich G. , Romney Miles , Hull Kevin , Pegoraro Ann
Published: July 2020

The Olympic Games offer scholars the opportunity to better understand how broadcasters visually frame male and female athletes to their large audiences. Traditionally, scholars have focused their efforts on the televised Olympic broadcasts and photojournalism coverage in newspaper and magazines. Scholarship has historically found that female athletes were underrepresented in event coverage and framed along gender stereotypes; however, in more recent Olympic Games, research has shown the news media has provided more equitable coverage between the genders. Yet digital and social media platforms (SMPs) play a significantly larger role in how Olympic broadcasters share content and engage with audiences. Utilizing media framing theory, this study examines how gender is framed on the Olympic Instagram accounts of the two official North American rights holders: the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Researchers collected a cross-sectional sample from the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Results indicate that NBC and CBC were generally equitable in SMP coverage of men’s and women’s athletic achievements.
Does India Want to Invest in Its Daughters: A Critical Analysis of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
Authors: Bhattacharya Sonali , Gandhi Aradhana
Published: July 2020

This study has been conducted to understand the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) scheme launched by the Government of India (GOI) for the girl child, to take care of their education and marriage. A composite index for measuring the performance of Indian states on SSY scheme investment was developed. It attempts to identify socioeconomic and psychological factors determining the SSY investment. A mixed method approach has been used to conduct the study. Normalized inverse Euclidean distance is applied for computing the composite index. We found that there exist significant regional differences between means of composite index of SSY in India. Male literacy, labor force participation, and women’s empowerment are significant positive predictors of composite index of SSY. The various motivating factors driving SSY investment are wealth creation for future of girl child, risk-free guaranteed return, and tax benefits. Based on the qualitative in-depth interviews, we found that the respondents expect a higher rate of interest on their SSY investment. They felt that the maximum limit for the investment should be removed, and there should be provision for premature withdrawal for urgent needs of girl child. Some felt that there should be equitable contribution in the scheme from the side of the government.
Comparison of Measurements of Implant Stability by Two Different Radio Frequency Analysis Systems: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Koyuncuoglu Cenker Zeki , Demir Becen
Published: July 2020

Aim:

To compare and evaluate the implant stability quotient (ISQ) measurements by two different radio frequency analysis (RFA) machines, Osstell Mentor and PenguinRFA.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty bone-level implants (3.7 × 10 mm2) were placed on a bovine bone in this in vitro study. The ISQ measurements were performed with the PenguinRFA and Osstell Mentor machines using the multipeg of the Penguin system. The measurements were repeated three times for each direction and an average ISQ value was calculated. The results were averaged (mean ± SD) and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to assess the relationship between the measurements.

Result:

The mean ISQ values for the Osstell and Penguin machines were 77.60 + 2.11 and 78.05 + 2.04, respectively. The ICC was 0.958. The ISQ values obtained from the Osstell and Penguin machines were significantly compatible ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Both of the RFA devices provided similar and reliable ISQ measurements.
Hand Sanitizer an Alternative to Hand Washing—A Review of Literature
Authors: Singh Pallavi , Potlia Ipshita , Malhotra Shitanshu , Dubey Himangi , Chauhan Himanshu
Published: July 2020

Aim:

COVID-19 is a new illness and a big threat to global health. No specific antiviral agents are available for its treatment. The finest approach to manage this threat is to clean our hands properly. Washing hands under running water is a better way to stop the spread of infections than using a hand sanitizer. The aim of the study is to show that washing hands is efficacious than using a dab of alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Materials and Methods:

A search was performed using three databases, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar published from 2010 to 2019. The keywords for the survey were “hand-washing,” “hand sanitizer,” and “effective.” After the relevant articles were found, the critical appraisal was made to select those that were suitable for the systematic review. The inclusion criteria of the study were surveys, clinical studies, no sample size restrictions, and only English papers. Any conference abstracts, case reports, and unpublished data were excluded from this study.

Results:

On the basis of the keywords, 22 relevant articles were found, and of those, 17 articles were selected for the systematic review.

Conclusion:

This study evaluated that washing hands with soap and water are more practical and efficacious than using the sanitizer on greasy and soiled hands. An alcohol-based sanitizer, if used correctly and in appropriate volume, can disseminate certain type of micro-organisms.
Content Analysis of Textbooks via Natural Language Processing: Findings on Gender, Race, and Ethnicity in Texas U.S. History Textbooks
Authors: Lucy Li , Demszky Dorottya , Bromley Patricia , Jurafsky Dan
Published: July 2020

Cutting-edge data science techniques can shed new light on fundamental questions in educational research. We apply techniques from natural language processing (lexicons, word embeddings, topic models) to 15 U.S. history textbooks widely used in Texas between 2015 and 2017, studying their depiction of historically marginalized groups. We find that Latinx people are rarely discussed, and the most common famous figures are nearly all White men. Lexicon-based approaches show that Black people are described as performing actions associated with low agency and power. Word embeddings reveal that women tend to be discussed in the contexts of work and the home. Topic modeling highlights the higher prominence of political topics compared with social ones. We also find that more conservative counties tend to purchase textbooks with less representation of women and Black people. Building on a rich tradition of textbook analysis, we release our computational toolkit to support new research directions.
Dynamic capabilities: The role of board monitoring and managerial incentives
Authors: Asija Aman , Ringov Dimo
Published: July 2020

Research on the nature and value of firms’ dynamic capabilities has produced contradictory propositions and findings. Scholars have argued that contingency theorizing has the potential to improve our understanding, as the context in which dynamic capabilities are deployed may affect their value. Drawing on agency theory, we propose that corporate governance mechanisms play a significant role in determining the value of firms’ dynamic capabilities. In particular, we develop theoretical propositions about the differential effect of two corporate governance mechanisms—board monitoring and managerial incentives—on the value of dynamic capabilities in the form of complex codified routines, on one hand, and simple rules, on the other hand, at different levels of environmental dynamism.

JEL CLASSIFICATION: L21; L22; D80; G34
Practicing Imagination and Activism in Literacy Research, Teaching, and Teacher Education: I Still Don’t Know How to Change the World With Rocks
Authors: Hoffman James V.
Published: July 2020

This address focuses on research and practice in the preparation of preservice teachers in literacy. I begin with an examination of the constructs of practice, activism, and imagination from an historical perspective. Next, I report on two initiatives in field-based literacy teacher preparation. The first initiative engages preservice teachers with inquiry as a curriculum stance. The second initiative engages preservice teachers as researchers with attention to research as too both for professional knowledge and for resistance to contentious policy environments that constrain teacher decision making. Finally, I argue for the need to become more inclusive within our community and to shift our stance from teachers as receivers of knowledge to teachers as participants in the sense-making process around practice.
Serum periostin reflects dynamic hyperinflation in patients with asthma
Authors: Asano Takamitsu , Ohbayashi Hiroyuki , Ariga Mitsue , Furuta Osamu , Kudo Sahori , Ono Junya , Izuhara Kenji
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Dynamic hyperinflation (DH) is sometimes observed and is associated with impaired daily life activities of asthma. We assessed the relationship between DH and asthma biomarkers (blood eosinophil, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and serum periostin) in patients with asthma.

Methods

Fifty patients with stable asthma were prospectively recruited and underwent blood test,FeNOmeasurement, spirometry and metronome-paced tachypnoea (MPT) test to assess DH. In MPT tests, inspiratory capacity (IC) was measured at baseline and after 30 s of MPT with breathing frequencies of 20, 30 and 40 breaths·min−1. DH was assessed by the decline of IC from baseline, and maximal IC reduction ≥10% was considered as positive DH.

Results

Thirty patients (60%) showed positive DH. Patients with positive DH showed higher serum periostin levels (107.0±30.7 ng·mL−1) than patients with negative DH (89.7±23.7) (p=0.04). Patients in Global Initiative for Asthma treatment steps 4–5 (n=19) showed higher serum periostin levels (p=0.01) and more severe IC reduction after MPT (p<0.0001) than patients in steps 1–3 (n=31). Maximal IC reduction after MPT was significantly correlated with asthma control test score (r=−0.28, p=0.05), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (r=−0.56, p<0.0001), and serum periostin levels (r=0.41, p=0.003).

Conclusion

Serum periostin may have the possibility to reflect DH in patients with stable asthma.
ERS International Congress, Madrid, 2019: highlights from the Sleep and Clinical Physiology Assembly
Authors: Crespo Andrea , Baillieul Sébastien , Marhuenda Esther , Bradicich Matteo , Andrianopoulos Vasileios , Louvaris Zafeiris , Marillier Mathieu , Almendros Isaac
Published: July 2020

The 2019 European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress took place in Madrid, Spain, and served as a platform to find out the latest advances in respiratory diseases research. The research aims are to understand the physiology and consequences of those diseases, as well as the improvement in their diagnoses, treatments and patient care. In particular, the scientific sessions arranged by ERS Assembly 4 provided novel insights into sleep-disordered breathing and new knowledge in respiratory physiology. This article, divided by session, will summarise the most relevant studies presented at the ERS International Congress. Each section has been written by Early Career Members specialising in the different fields of this interdisciplinary assembly.
Patients with chronic migraine without history of medication overuse are characterized by a peculiar white matter fiber bundle profile
Authors: Coppola Gianluca , Di Renzo Antonio , Tinelli Emanuele , Petolicchio Barbara , Di Lorenzo Cherubino , Parisi Vincenzo , Serrao Mariano , Calistri Valentina , Tardioli Stefano , Cartocci Gaia , Caramia Francesca , Di Piero Vittorio , Pierelli Francesco
Published: July 2020

Background

We investigated intracerebral fiber bundles using a tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) analysis of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data to verify microstructural integrity in patients with episodic (MO) and chronic migraine (CM).

Methods

We performed DTI in 19 patients with MO within interictal periods, 18 patients with CM without any history of drug abuse, and 18 healthy controls (HCs) using a 3 T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. We calculated diffusion metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusion (AD), radial diffusion (RD), and mean diffusion (MD).

Results

TBSS revealed no significant differences in the FA, MD, RD, and AD maps between the MO and HC groups. In comparison to the HC group, the CM group exhibited widespread increased RD (bilateral superior [SCR] and posterior corona radiata [PCR], bilateral genu of the corpus callosum [CC], bilateral posterior limb of internal capsule [IC], bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculus [LF]) and MD values (tracts of the right SCR and PCR, right superior LF, and right splenium of the CC). In comparison to the MO group, the CM group showed decreased FA (bilateral SCR and PCR, bilateral body of CC, right superior LF, right forceps minor) and increased MD values (bilateral SCR and right PCR, right body of CC, right superior LF, right splenium of CC, and right posterior limb of IC).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that chronic migraine can be associated with the widespread disruption of normal white matter integrity in the brain.
Long-time follow up of physical activity level among older adults with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lange Elvira , Gjertsson Inger , Mannerkorpi Kaisa
Published: July 2020

Background

Physical activity and exercise are acknowledged as important parts in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, long-term maintenance of exercise is known to be difficult. The aim of this study was to evaluate change in physical activity and physical fitness after four years in older adults with RA who had previously participated in exercise with person-centred guidance compared to controls.

Method

A follow-up study was performed where older adults (> 65 years) who had participated in a randomized controlled trial where they were allocated to either exercise with person-centred guidance or home-based, light-intensity exercise (controls) were invited to one visit and assessed with performance-based test, blood-sampling and self-reported questionnaires. Forty-seven out of 70 older adults accepted participation, 24 from the exercise group and 23 from the control group. Comparisons of the result with baseline values were performed and explanatory factors for increase of physical activity were examined with logistic regression.

Results

The result show that there was no significant difference in weekly hours of physical activity when groups where compared. However, participants in the exercise group rated significantly increased weekly hours of physical activity after four years (p = 0.004) when compared to baseline. Higher levels of fatigue, BMI and physical activity, at baseline were negatively associated with increased physical activity after four years. There was no significant difference in change of physical fitness between the groups. Within group analysis showed that the control group reported increased pain (p = 0.035), fatigue (p = 0.023) increased number of tender joints (p = 0.028) higher disease activity (p = 0.007) and worsening of global health (p = 0.004) when compared to baseline while the exercise group remained at the same level as at baseline.

Conclusion

These results indicate that introducing moderate- to high intensity exercise with person-centred guidance might favor increased physical activity after four years in older adults with RA. Previous partaking in moderate- to high intensity exercise might also be protective against increased disease activity, pain and fatigue over time.
LogicNet: probabilistic continuous logics in reconstructing gene regulatory networks
Authors: Malekpour Seyed Amir , Alizad-Rahvar Amir Reza , Sadeghi Mehdi
Published: July 2020

Background

Gene Regulatory Networks (GRNs) have been previously studied by using Boolean/multi-state logics. While the gene expression values are usually scaled into the range [0, 1], these GRN inference methods apply a threshold to discretize the data, resulting in missing information. Most of studies apply fuzzy logics to infer the logical gene-gene interactions from continuous data. However, all these approaches require an a priori known network structure.

Results

Here, by introducing a new probabilistic logic for continuous data, we propose a novel logic-based approach (called the LogicNet) for the simultaneous reconstruction of the GRN structure and identification of the logics among the regulatory genes, from the continuous gene expression data. In contrast to the previous approaches, the LogicNet does not require an a priori known network structure to infer the logics. The proposed probabilistic logic is superior to the existing fuzzy logics and is more relevant to the biological contexts than the fuzzy logics. The performance of the LogicNet is superior to that of several Mutual Information-based and regression-based tools for reconstructing GRNs.

Conclusions

The LogicNet reconstructs GRNs and logic functions without requiring prior knowledge of the network structure. Moreover, in another application, the LogicNet can be applied for logic function detection from the known regulatory genes-target interactions. We also conclude that computational modeling of the logical interactions among the regulatory genes significantly improves the GRN reconstruction accuracy.
High prevalence of t895 and t9364 spa types of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a tertiary-care hospital in Mexico: different lineages of clonal complex 5
Authors: Negrete-González C. , Turrubiartes-Martínez E. , Galicia-Cruz O. G. , Noyola D. E. , Martínez-Aguilar G. , Pérez-González L. F. , González-Amaro R. , Niño-Moreno P.
Published: July 2020

Background

Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of broad-spectrum infections both in the community and within healthcare settings. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become a global public health issue. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical and molecular characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus isolates and to define the population structure and distribution of major MRSA clones isolated in a tertiary-care hospital in Mexico.

Results

From April 2017 to April 2018, 191 Staphylococcus aureus isolates were collected. The frequency of MRSA was 26.7%; these strains exhibited resistance to clindamycin (84.3%), erythromycin (86.2%), levofloxacin (80.3%), and ciprofloxacin (86.3%). The majority of MRSA strains harbored the SCCmec type II (76.4%) and t895 (56.8%) and t9364 (11.7%) were the most common spa types in both hospital-associated MRSA and community-associated MRSA isolates. ST5-MRSA-II-t895 (New York /Japan clone) and ST1011-MRSA-II-t9364 (New York /Japan-Mexican Variant clone) were the most frequently identified clones. Furthermore, different lineages of Clonal Complexes 5 (85.4%) and 8 (8.3%) were predominantly identified in this study.

Conclusion

Our study provides valuable information about the epidemiology of MRSA in a city of the central region of Mexico, and this is the first report on the association between t895 and t9364 spa types and ST5 and ST1011 lineages, respectively. These findings support the importance of permanent surveillance of MRSA aimed to detect the evolutionary changes of the endemic clones and the emergence of new strains.
Redox control in the pathophysiology of influenza virus infection
Authors: Chen Ker-Kong , Minakuchi Moeko , Wuputra Kenly , Ku Chia-Chen , Pan Jia-Bin , Kuo Kung-Kai , Lin Ying-Chu , Saito Shigeo , Lin Chang-Shen , Yokoyama Kazunari K.
Published: July 2020

Triggered in response to external and internal ligands in cells and animals, redox homeostasis is transmitted via signal molecules involved in defense redox mechanisms through networks of cell proliferation, differentiation, intracellular detoxification, bacterial infection, and immune reactions. Cellular oxidation is not necessarily harmful per se, but its effects depend on the balance between the peroxidation and antioxidation cascades, which can vary according to the stimulus and serve to maintain oxygen homeostasis. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are generated during influenza virus (IV) infection have critical effects on both the virus and host cells. In this review, we outline the link between viral infection and redox control using IV infection as an example. We discuss the current state of knowledge on the molecular relationship between cellular oxidation mediated by ROS accumulation and the diversity of IV infection. We also summarize the potential anti-IV agents available currently that act by targeting redox biology/pathophysiology.
A middle-aged male patient with de Winter syndrome: a case report
Authors: Lu Bo , Fu Deyu , Zhou Xunjie , Gui Mingtai , Yao Lei , Li Jianhua
Published: July 2020

Background

De Winter syndrome accounts for approximately 2% of all patients with acute anterior myocardial infarction admitted to the emergency department, and is characterized by severe stenosis of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). The ECG changes are not recognized by ECG software, and poor understanding of the syndrome among physicians may lead to misdiagnosis, delayed reperfusion, and mortality.

Case presentation

A 51-year-old male patient presented with a newly developed ECG pattern suggestive of de Winter Syndrome. Coronary angiography revealed anterior myocardial infarction. Based on the ECG and clinical manifestations, the patient was diagnosed with de Winter syndrome and underwent timely percutaneous coronary intervention to revascularize the left anterior descending artery (LAD). The patient showed good outcomes and no complications at 4 months after the operation.

Conclusions

This case highlights the importance of being aware of the possibility of de Winter syndrome in patients with symptoms of myocardial infarction but atypical ECG in order to conduct early revascularization and treatments.
Quick and effective improvement of leucine enriched dietary supplement on malnutrition in acute stroke patients receiving enteral tube feeding
Authors: Mori Takahisa , Yoshioka Kazuhiro
Published: July 2020

Background

Malnutrition often occurs in acute stroke patients receiving enteral tube feeding (ETF). Unless malnutrition is improved, their clinical outcome is poor. However, strategies to improve malnutrition in these patients have not been established. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) may enhance protein synthesis and attenuate inflammation. Our study aimed to investigate whether a leucine enriched BCAA dietary supplement (LEBDs) could quickly increase serum levels of albumin (Alb) or transthyretin (TTR) and decrease high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) in the development of severe malnutrition within a few days after stroke onset compared to standard BCAA dietary supplement (SBDs).

Methods

We retrospectively included acute stroke patients who: 1) were admitted between August 2016 and July 2017; 2) underwent ETF for 7 days or longer after admission, and 3) underwent blood examination of Alb, TTR, and CRP on admission, the fifth day and the seventh day. We defined severe malnutrition as severe hypoproteinemia: decrease of TTR to less than 15 mg/dl on the 5th day. In LEBDs and SBDs groups, patients started to receive a dietary supplement containing leucine of 1.44 and 0. 72 g twice a day on the fifth day, respectively. We evaluated Alb (g/dl), TTR (mg/dl), and CRP (mg/dl) on admission, the fifth day, and the seventh day.

Results

Twenty-nine patients met our inclusion criteria:15 in LEBDs and 14 in SBDs. In LEBDs and SBDs groups, the median Alb was 3.5 and 3.3 g/dl, TTR was 12.7 and 10.7 mg/dl, and CRP was 1.02 and 0.673 mg/dl on admission, respectively. In LEBDs, the median Alb and TTR decreased to 2.6 g/dl and 11.9 mg/dl, and CRP increased to 5.337 mg/dl on the fifth day. On the 7th day, TTR increased, and CRP decreased, although Alb did not improve. In SBDs, the median Alb and TTR decreased to 2.6 g/dl and 9.7 mg/dl, and CRP increased to 4.077 mg/dl on the fifth day. On the 7th day, Alb, TTR, and CRP did not improve.

Conclusion

In acute stroke patients receiving leucine enriched BCAA dietary supplement, quick improvements in transthyretin and CRP were observed.
Comparison of hierarchical EMAX and NDLM models in dose-response for early phase clinical trials
Authors: Huang Xiaqing , Gajewski Byron J.
Published: July 2020

Background

Phase II clinical trials primarily aim to find the optimal dose and investigate the relationship between dose and efficacy relative to standard of care (control). Therefore, before moving forward to a phase III confirmatory trial, the most effective dose is needed to be identified.

Methods

The primary endpoint of a phase II trial is typically a binary endpoint of success or failure. The EMAX model, ubiquitous in pharmacology research, was fit for many compounds and described the data well, except for a single compound, which had nonmonotone dose–response (Thomas et al., Stat Biopharmaceutical Res. 6:302-317 2014). To mitigate the risk of nonmonotone dose response one of the alternative options is a Bayesian hierarchical EMAX model (Gajewski et al., Stat Med. 38:3123-3138 2019). The hierarchical EMAX adapts to its environment.

Results

When the dose-response curve is monotonic it enjoys the efficiency of EMAX. When the dose-response curve is non-monotonic the additional random effect hyperprior makes the hierarchical EMAX model more adjustable and flexible. However, the normal dynamic linear model (NDLM) is a useful model to explore dose-response relationships in that the efficacy at the current dose depends on the efficacy of the previous dose(s). Previous research has compared the EMAX to the hierarchical EMAX (Gajewski et al., Stat Med. 38:3123-3138 2019) and the EMAX to the NDLM (Liu et al., BMC Med Res Method 17:149 2017), however, the hierarchical EMAX has not been directly compared to the NDLM.

Conclusions

The focus of this paper is to compare these models and discuss the relative merit for each of their uses for an ongoing early phase dose selection study.
A grading system from health to death using routine experimental indicators based on the pre-chronic disease status theory
Authors: Guang Yang , Yuzhong Li , Hui Liu
Published: July 2020

Background

To establish a system for assessing pre-chronic disease status (PCDS) whereby changes in biomolecule levels occur before the appearance of physical damage to body organs. We based our study on the common biomarkers of aging, disease and end-of-life processes.

Methods

The red blood cell count as well as levels of albumin, creatinine and aspartate aminotransferase were used as indicators for measurement. The basic premise for determining PCDS was that the measured value was outside the reference range for a healthy individual. A binary outcome was determined according to reference range given by the laboratory undertaking the measurements. The Biological Age Index (BAI) was used to ascertain PCDS.

Results

The four indictors that we chose were sensitive for end-of-life and aging. The BAI score for each age group increased significantly with increasing age. The BAI score of patients with cardiac disease, cerebrovascular disease, cancer or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were mostly higher than those in healthy age-matched people.

Conclusion

A system for assessing PCDS centered on biomolecular detection and independent of the pathologic diagnosis could be effective.
Whole exome sequencing identified mutations causing hearing loss in five consanguineous Pakistani families
Authors: Zhou Yingjie , Tariq Muhammad , He Sijie , Abdullah Uzma , Zhang Jianguo , Baig Shahid Mahmood
Published: July 2020

Background

Hearing loss is the most common sensory defect, and it affects over 6% of the population worldwide. Approximately 50–60% of hearing loss patients are attributed to genetic causes. Currently, more than 100 genes have been reported to cause non-syndromic hearing loss. It is possible and efficient to screen all potential disease-causing genes for hereditary hearing loss by whole exome sequencing (WES).

Methods

We collected 5 consanguineous pedigrees from Pakistan with hearing loss and applied WES in selected patients for each pedigree, followed by bioinformatics analysis and Sanger validation to identify the causal genes.

Results

Variants in 7 genes were identified and validated in these pedigrees. We identified single candidate variant for 3 pedigrees: GIPC3 (c.937 T > C), LOXHD1 (c.6136G > A) and TMPRSS3 (c.941 T > C). The remaining 2 pedigrees each contained two candidate variants: TECTA (c.4045G > A) and MYO15A (c.3310G > T and c.9913G > C) for one pedigree and DFNB59 (c.494G > A) and TRIOBP (c.1952C > T) for the other pedigree. The candidate variants were validated in all available samples by Sanger sequencing.

Conclusion

The candidate variants in hearing-loss genes were validated to be co-segregated in the pedigrees, and they may indicate the aetiologies of hearing loss in such patients. We also suggest that WES may be a suitable strategy for hearing-loss gene screening in clinical detection.
Renal histology in diabetic nephropathy predicts progression to end-stage kidney disease but not the rate of renal function decline
Authors: Misra Paraish S. , Szeto Stephen G. , Krizova Adriana , Gilbert Richard E. , Yuen Darren A.
Published: July 2020

Background

While histopathologic changes correlate with functional impairment in cross-sectional studies of diabetic nephropathy (DN), whether these findings predict future rate of kidney function loss remains uncertain. We thus sought to examine the relationship between kidney histopathology, incidence of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), and rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) loss in DN.

Methods

In this longitudinal cohort study, we studied 50 adults diagnosed with biopsy-proven DN. We analyzed the histopathologic parameters of each patient’s kidney biopsy, as defined by the Renal Pathology Society classification system for DN, and tracked all available eGFR measurements post-biopsy. We additionally collected baseline clinical parameters (at the time of biopsy), including eGFR, albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), and hemoglobin A1c. Multivariable linear regression was used to assess the relationship between histologic and clinical parameters at the time of the biopsy and eGFR slope. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression were used to evaluate the association between histologic and clinical parameters and ESKD incidence.

Results

Progression to ESKD was associated with worsening interstitial fibrosis score (p = 0.05), lower baseline eGFR (p = 0.02), higher ACR (p = 0.001), and faster eGFR decline (p < 0.001). The rate of eGFR decline did not associate with any histologic parameter. Baseline ACR was the only studied variable correlating with eGFR slope (rho = − 0.41).

Conclusions

Renal histology predicts ultimate progression to ESKD, but not the rate of progression. Future work is required to identify novel predictors of rapid functional decline in patients with diabetic nephropathy.
Clinical effect and safety of continuous renal replacement therapy in the treatment of neonatal sepsis-related acute kidney injury
Authors: Cai Cheng , Qiu Gang , Hong Wenchao , Shen Yunlin , Gong Xiaohui
Published: July 2020

Background

Sepsis is the leading cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The aim of the study is to explore the efficacy and security of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in the treatment of neonatal sepsis-related AKI.

Method

Totally12 sepsis-related AKI neonates treated with CRRT were hospitalized in the NICU of Shanghai Children’s Hospital between November 2012 and November 2019, and the clinical data of these 12 cases were retrospectively analyzed. Renal function, acid-base balance, electrolytes, blood pressure and hemodynamics indexes were recorded before CRRT initiation, 12/24/48 h after CRRT initiation and at the end of CRRT respectively. The efficacy of CRRT was evaluated and the clinical outcome was observed in these 12 sepsis-related AKI neonates. Repeated measurement analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis of the data.

Result

(1) Continuous veno-venous hemodialysis filtration (CVVHDF) was used in 12 cases of sepsis-related AKI neonates. There were 6 cases with oliguria, 3 cases with fluid overload (FO), 3 cases with septic shock. The duration of CRRT was 49 ~ 110 h, average (76.2 ± 23.5) h. (2) The blood pressure (BP) of 12 sepsis -related AKI neonates could reach the normal level (40–60 mmHg) 12 h after CRRT initiation, and the normal BP level could be maintained during the CRRT treatment. After 12 h CRRT, the blood pH value increased to the normal range (7.35 ~ 7.45). After 12 h CRRT treatment, the oxygenation index of 12sepsis-related AKI neonates could reach 200 mmHg. After 24 h CRRT treatment, it could rise to more than 300 mmHg. Serum potassium, serum urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels decreased significantly 12 h after CRRT initiation, and reached the normal range 24 h after CRRT initiation. The urine volume significantly increased 24 h after CRRT initiation. (3) Venous catheterization was performed successfully in all sepsis-related AKI neonates. We observed 2 cases of thrombocytopenia, 1 case of obstruction and 1 case of hypotension in the course of CRRT. There were no complications such as hypothermia, hemorrhage, thrombosis and infection.11 neonates were cured and discharged. One neonate was treated with CRRT and passed through the oliguria stage of AKI, but died after the parents gave up the treatment.

Conclusions

It is safe and effective to treat neonatal sepsis-related AKI with CRRT, which should be an effective measure for the treatment of sepsis-related AKI neonates.
Local tirofiban infusion for remnant stenosis in large vessel occlusion: tirofiban ASSIST study
Authors: Kim Yong-Won , Sohn Sung-Il , Yoo Joonsang , Hong Jeong-Ho , Kim Chang-Hyun , Kang Dong-Hun , Kim Yong-Sun , Lee Seong-Joon , Hong Ji Man , Choi Jin Wook , Hwang Yang-Ha , Lee Jin Soo
Published: July 2020

Background

Compared with embolic occlusions, intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS)-related large vessel occlusions (LVOs) often require rescue treatment following mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Herein, we hypothesized that local tirofiban infusion can be effective and safe for remnant stenosis in LVO during endovascular treatment and can improve clinical outcomes.

Methods

This observational multicenter registry study (January 2011 to February 2016) included patients with ICAS who underwent endovascular treatment for LVO within 24 h after stroke onset. An underlying fixed focal stenosis at the occlusion site observed on cerebral angiography during and after MT was retrospectively determined as a surrogate marker of ICAS. Procedural and clinical outcomes were compared between the tirofiban and non-tirofiban groups.

Results

Of 118 patients, 59 received local tirofiban infusion. Compared to the non-tirofiban group, patients were older (non-tirofiban group versus tirofiban group; median, 63 years vs. 71 years, p = 0.015) and the onset-to-puncture time was longer (median, 275 min vs. 395 min, p = 0.036) in the tirofiban group. The median percent of residual stenosis prior to rescue treatment tended to be higher in the tirofiban group (80 [71–86] vs. 83 [79–90], p = 0.056). Final reperfusion success (modified Treatment In Cerebral Ischemic 2b–3) was more frequent (42.4%vs. 86.4%, p = 0.016) and post-procedure parenchymal hematoma type 2 and/or thick subarachnoid hemorrhages were less frequent (15.3%vs. 5.1%, p = 0.068) in the tirofiban group. The frequency of favorable outcomes 3 months after endovascular treatment (modified Rankin Scale 0–2) was significantly higher in the tirofiban group (32.2% vs. 52.5%, p = 0.025), and tirofiban administration was an independent predictor of favorable outcomes (odds ratio, 2.991; 95% confidence interval, 1.011–8.848; p = 0.048).

Conclusions

Local tirofiban infusion can be a feasible adjuvant treatment option for patients with ICAS-LVO.
Experiences of an earthquake during pregnancy, antenatal mental health and infants’ birthweight in Bhaktapur District, Nepal, 2015: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Khatri Goma Kumari , Tran Thach Duc , Baral Sushil , Fisher Jane
Published: July 2020

Background

Infant birthweight is an important public health indicator that is a proxy of maternal and baby’s health. Earthquakes can cause acute distress, but can also contribute to chronic stress through long-term disruptions to social, economic and domestic circumstances. The aims of this study were to examine the direct effect of earthquake experiences on the birthweight of infants of women who experienced the 2015 Nepal Earthquakes during pregnancy and whether mental health mediated this relationship.

Methods

This is a prospective, population-based cohort study. Pregnant women in Bhaktapur District, Nepal who had experienced the 2015 earthquakes after conception were recruited. Baseline data were collected in structured individual interviews. Follow up was a short telephone interview two weeks after the baby’s birth. Infant birthweight recorded on the hospital-issued birth certificate. The direct effect of earthquake experiences on birthweight and the indirect effect via antenatal common mental disorders (CMDs) were tested using Sobel tests simultaneously.

Results

In total 497/498 women contributed baseline data and 469 (94.4%) women also provided the birth weight of their infants. In total 6% of infants had low birth weight (< 2.5 kg). The earthquake experiences did not have a significant direct effect on birthweight (p = 0.116). However, the effect of earthquake experiences had a significant indirect effect on infant birthweight via CMDs. When 15 covariates were controlled, women who had moderate to severe earthquake experiences had an increase of 1.58 scores of antenatal CMD symptoms that resulted in their babies being 20.50 g lighter than those who had low earthquake experiences (p = 0.026).

Conclusions

The findings from this study indicate that the relationship is mediated by the mental health of women during pregnancy. Data demonstrate that the mental health of women who are pregnant should be prioritised in post-disaster management not only because of the burden experienced by women but also because of the risk for the growth and development of their babies.