bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pinostrobin suppresses the Ca2+-signal-dependent growth arrest in yeast by inhibiting the Swe1-mediated G2 cell-cycle regulation
Authors: Sopanaporn Jumpol , Suksawatamnuay Sirinporn , Sardikin Amanulia , Lengwittaya Rittirat , Chavasiri Warinthorn , Miyakawa Tokichi , Yompakdee Chulee
Published: May 2020

Pinostrobin, a flavonoid compound known for its diverse pharmacological actions, including anti-leukemic and anti-inflammatory activities, has been repeatedly isolated by various screenings, but its action mechanism is still obscure. Previously, pinostrobin was rediscovered in our laboratory using a yeast-based assay procedure devised specifically for the inhibitory effect on the activated Ca2+ signaling that leads the cells to severe growth retardation in the G2 phase. Here, we attempted to identify target of pinostrobin employing the genetic techniques available in the yeast. Using various genetically engineered yeast strains in which the Ca2+-signaling cascade can be activated by the controlled expression of the various signaling molecules of the cascade, its target was narrowed down to Swe1, the cell-cycle regulatory protein kinase. The Swe1 kinase is situated at the downstream of the Ca2+-signaling cascade and downregulates the Cdc28/Clb complex by phosphorylating the Cdc28 moiety of the complex in the G2 phase. We further demonstrated that pinostrobin inhibits the protein kinase activity of Swe1 in vivo as estimated by the decreased level of Cdc28 phosphorylation at Tyr-19. Since the yeast SWE1 gene is an ortholog for the human WEE1 gene, our finding implied a potentiality of pinostrobin as the G2 checkpoint abrogator in cancer chemotherapy.
APOE ε4 and the Influence of Sex, Age, Vascular Risk Factors, and Ethnicity on Cognitive Decline
Authors: Makkar Steve R , Lipnicki Darren M , Crawford John D , Kochan Nicole A , Castro-Costa Erico , Lima-Costa Maria Fernanda , Diniz Breno Satler , Brayne Carol , Stephan Blossom , Matthews Fiona , Llibre-Rodriguez Juan J , Llibre-Guerra Jorge J , Valhuerdi-Cepero Adolfo J , Lipton Richard B , Katz Mindy J , Wang Cuiling , Ritchie Karen , Carles Sophie , Carriere Isabelle , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Yannakoulia Mary , Kosmidis Mary , Lam Linda , Chan Wai Chi , Fung Ada , Guaita Antonio , Vaccaro Roberta , Davin Annalisa , Kim Ki Woong , Han Ji Won , Suh Seung Wan , Riedel-Heller Steffi G , Roehr Susanne , Pabst Alexander , Ganguli Mary , Hughes Tiffany F , Snitz Beth , Anstey Kaarin J , Cherbuin Nicolas , Easteal Simon , Haan Mary N , Aiello Allison E , Dang Kristina , Pin Ng Tze , Gao Qi , Zin Nyunt Ma Shwe , Brodaty Henry , Trollor Julian N , Leung Yvonne , Lo Jessica W , Sachdev Perminder
Published: May 2020

We aimed to examine the relationship between Apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE*4) carriage on cognitive decline, and whether these associations were moderated by sex, baseline age, ethnicity, and vascular risk factors. Participants were 19,225 individuals aged 54–103 years from 15 longitudinal cohort studies with a mean follow-up duration ranging between 1.2 and 10.7 years. Two-step individual participant data meta-analysis was used to pool results of study-wise analyses predicting memory and general cognitive decline from carriage of one or two APOE*4 alleles, and moderation of these associations by age, sex, vascular risk factors, and ethnicity. Separate pooled estimates were calculated in both men and women who were younger (ie, 62 years) and older (ie, 80 years) at baseline. Results showed that APOE*4 carriage was related to faster general cognitive decline in women, and faster memory decline in men. A stronger dose-dependent effect was observed in older men, with faster general cognitive and memory decline in those carrying two versus one APOE*4 allele. Vascular risk factors were related to an increased effect of APOE*4 on memory decline in younger women, but a weaker effect of APOE*4 on general cognitive decline in older men. The relationship between APOE*4 carriage and memory decline was larger in older-aged Asians than Whites. In sum, APOE*4 is related to cognitive decline in men and women, although these effects are enhanced by age and carriage of two APOE*4 alleles in men, a higher numbers of vascular risk factors during the early stages of late adulthood in women, and Asian ethnicity.
Improving cross-correlations of ambient noise using an rms-ratio selection stacking method
Authors: Xie Jinyun , Yang Yingjie , Luo Yinhe
Published: May 2020

Stacking of ambient noise correlations is a crucial step to extract empirical Green's functions (EGFs) between station pairs. The traditional method is to linearly stack all short-duration cross-correlation functions (CCFs) over a long period of time to obtain final stacks. It requires at least several months of ambient noise data to obtain reliable phase velocities at periods of several to tens of seconds from CCFs. In this study, we develop a new stacking method named root-mean-square ratio selection stacking (RMSR_SS) to reduce the time duration required for the recovery of EGFs from ambient noise. In our RMSR_SS method, rather than stacking all short-duration CCFs, we first judge if each of the short-duration CCF constructively contributes to the recovery of EGFs or not. Then, we only stack those CCFs which constructively contribute to the convergence of EGFs. By applying our method to synthetic noise data, we demonstrate how our method works in enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio of CCFs by rejecting noise sources which do not positively contribute to the recovery of EGFs. Then, we apply our method to real noise data recorded in western USA. We show that reliable and accurate phase velocities can be measured from 15-d long ambient noise data using our RMSR_SS method. By applying our method to ambient noise tomography (ANT), we can reduce the deployment duration of seismic stations from several months or years to a few tens of days, significantly improving the efficiency of ANT in imaging crust and upper-mantle structures.
Centroid moment tensor inversions of offshore earthquakes using a three-dimensional velocity structure model: slip distributions on the plate boundary along the Nankai Trough
Authors: Takemura Shunsuke , Okuwaki Ryo , Kubota Tatsuya , Shiomi Katsuhiko , Kimura Takeshi , Noda Akemi
Published: May 2020

Due to complex 3-D heterogeneous structures, conventional 1-D analysis techniques using onshore seismograms can yield incorrect estimation of earthquake source parameters, especially dip angles and centroid depths of offshore earthquakes. Combining long-term onshore seismic observations and numerical simulations of seismic wave propagation in a 3-D model, we conducted centroid moment tensor (CMT) inversions of earthquakes along the Nankai Trough between April 2004 and August 2019 to evaluate decade-scale seismicity. Green's functions for CMT inversions of earthquakes with moment magnitudes of 4.3–6.5 were evaluated using finite-difference method simulations of seismic wave propagation in the regional 3-D velocity structure model. Significant differences of focal mechanisms and centroid depths between previous 1-D and our 3-D catalogues were found in the solutions of offshore earthquakes. By introducing the 3-D structures of the low-velocity accretionary prism and the Philippine Sea Plate, dip angles and centroid depths for offshore earthquakes were well-constrained. Teleseismic CMT also provides robust solutions, but our regional 3-D CMT could provide better constraints of dip angles. Our 3-D CMT catalogue and published slow earthquake catalogues depicted spatial distributions of slip behaviours on the plate boundary along the Nankai Trough. The regular and slow interplate earthquakes were separately distributed, with these distributions reflecting the heterogeneous distribution of effective strengths along the Nankai Trough plate boundary. By comparing the spatial distribution of seismic slip on the plate boundary with the slip-deficit rate distribution, regions with strong coupling were clearly identified.
Can social accountability mechanisms using community scorecards improve quality of pediatric care in rural Cambodia?
Authors: Edward Anbrasi , Jung Younghee , Chhorvann Chea , Ghee Annette E , Chege Jane
Published: May 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of social accountability strategies on pediatric quality of care.

Design and Setting

A non-randomized quasi experimental study was conducted in four districts in Cambodia and all operational public health facilities were included.

Participants

Five patients under 5 years and their caretakers were randomly selected in each facility.

Interventions

To determine the effect of maternal and child health interventions integrating citizen voice and action using community scorecards on quality of pediatric care.

Outcome Measures

Patient observations were conducted to determine quality of screening and counseling, followed by exit interviews with caretakers.

Results

Results indicated significant differences between intervention and comparison facilities; screening by Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) trained providers (100% vs 67%, P < 0.019), screening for danger signs; ability to drink/breastfeed (100% vs 86.7%, P < 0.041), lethargy (86.7% vs 40%, P < 0.004) and convulsions (83.3 vs 46.7%, P < 0.023). Screening was significantly higher for patients in the intervention facilities for edema (56.7% vs 6.7%, P < 0.000), immunization card (90% vs 40%, P < 0.002), child weight (100 vs 86.7, P < 0.041) and checking growth chart (96.7% vs 66.7%, P < 0.035). The IMCI index, constructed from key performance indicators, was significantly higher for patients in the intervention facilities than comparison facilities (screening index 8.8 vs 7.0, P < 0.018, counseling index 2.7 vs 1.5, P < 0.001). Predictors of screening quality were child age, screening by IMCI trained provider, wealthier quintiles and intervention facilities.

Conclusion

The institution of social accountability mechanisms to engage communities and facility providers showed some improvements in quality of care for common pediatric conditions, but socioeconomic disparities were evident.
Determination of Curcuminoids in Turmeric Dietary Supplements by HPLC-DAD: Multi-laboratory Study Through the NIH-ODS/NIST Quality Assurance Program
Authors: Mudge Elizabeth M , Brown Paula N , Rimmer Catherine A , Phillips Melissa M
Published: May 2020

Background

Turmeric is a medicinal herb containing curcuminoids, used as quality markers in dietary supplements. In 2016, an AOAC First Action Official MethodSM was adopted for quantitation of curcuminoids and requires multi-laboratory reproducibility data for Final Action status.

Objective

To collect reproducibility data for the quantitation of curcuminoids in dietary supplements through the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements/National Institute of Standards and Technology Quality Assurance Program (QAP).

Method

Laboratories that participated in the QAP by following the Official Methods of AnalysisSM Method 2016.16, submitted data for ten turmeric products. The data were analyzed for mean, repeatability, and reproducibility standard deviations, repeatability, and reproducibility.

Results

The initial data collection resulted in insufficient replicates (five) for each test sample to determine reproducibility, therefore laboratories were provided additional materials resulting in an incremental data approach. For homogenous products, reproducibility for curcumin ranged from 3.4 to 10.3%, bisdemethoxycurcumin with reproducibility ranging from 6.4 to 14.8%, and demethoxycurcumin ranging from 5.6 to 9.9%. The method was unsuitable for the quantitation of curcuminoids in complex smoothie products, products containing microbeads, or tinctures based on interlaboratory variances. Recommendations were provided for future multi-laboratory studies performed through QAPs and incremental approaches.

Conclusions

Method 2016.16 is suitable for the quantitation of curcuminoids and should be adopted for Final Action status for single and multi-ingredient dietary supplements containing dried roots, dried powders/extracts in bulk material, capsules, and softgels.

Highlights

Reproducibility for Method 2016.16 was collected through a non-traditional incremental data multi-laboratory study. The method is suitable for quantitation of curcuminoids in most common dietary supplements.
Is tumour location a prognostic factor for pharmacological treatment in patients with desmoid-type fibromatosis? a systematic review
Authors: Koike Hiroshi , Hamada Shunsuke , Sakai Tomohisa , Shimizu Koki , Yoshida Masahiro , Nishida Yoshihiro
Published: May 2020

Background

The mainstay of the treatment for desmoid-type fibromatoses has been shifting from surgery to drug treatment, making accurate prediction of the efficacy of drug treatment of extreme importance. On the other hand, desmoid-type fibromatoses arise everywhere in the body. The purpose of this systematic review was to address the clinical question of whether tumour location has an impact on the efficacy of drug treatment.

Methods

A literature search from January 1990 to August 2017 was conducted. Four reviewers independently assessed and screened the literature for eligibility and determined the final articles. They rated each report according to the Grading of Recommendations Development and Evaluation approach. Based on the quality of ‘Body of Evidence’, our clinical guideline committee developed a recommendation for the clinical question.

Results

In total, 128 articles were extracted. After the screenings, 5 were chosen for the final evaluation. The drugs used in these articles were one each of toremifene, sorafenib, and methotrexate and vinblastine and of meloxicam. There were no randomized controlled trials, and two prospective and three retrospective case series were included. Therapeutic effects were observed slightly more markedly in extremity using meloxicam or methotrexate and vinblastine. In contrast, the efficacy of toremifene was slightly higher in non-extremity. However, the evidence level of all of the reports was judged to be low.

Conclusions

Considering the low evidence level, we concluded that the site-specific therapeutic effects of drugs could not be confirmed in desmoid-type fibromatoses.
What is Public about Public Leadership? Exploring ImplicitPublicLeadership Theories
Authors: Vogel Rick , Werkmeister Laura
Published: May 2020

While scholarship on public leadership has recently gained momentum in public administration, it is unclear how researchers should account for the “public” in public leadership. We shed new light on this issue by introducing the approach of Implicit Leadership Theories (ILTs) to the field of public administration. This socio-cognitive approach suggests that people’s everyday, rather than scholarly, theories about the characteristics of leaders provide important explanations of how they respond to leadership situations. We investigate whether people hold Implicit Public Leadership Theories (IPLTs) and explore how these images of public leaders contrast with generic ILTs. We extract these taxonomies from data gathered in a survey experiment in Germany (N = 1,072). Results show that IPLTs have overlaps with generic ILTs but are unique in terms of rule abidance and innovation-orientation. In contrast, charismatic aspects of leadership only figure in generic ILTs. The structure of ILTs, both generic and public, is surprisingly stable across the subsamples of public and non-public employees. We discuss how the findings may assist public management scholars in the development of explicit theories of public leadership and derive a research agenda based on a socio-cognitive approach.
Sinking skin flap syndrome in the multi-trauma patient: a paradoxical management to TBI post craniectomy
Authors: Hakmi Hazim , Joseph D’Andrea K , Sohail Amir , Tessler Lee , Baltazar Gerard , Stright Adam
Published: May 2020

Sinking skin flap syndrome is a rare syndrome leading to increased intracranial pressure, known to neurosurgeons, yet uncommon and hardly ever reported in trauma patients. In a hospitalized trauma patient with declining neurological status, rarely do we encounter further deterioration by elevating the patients’ head, diuresis and hyperventilation. However, after craniectomy for trauma, a partially boneless cranium may be compressed by the higher atmospheric pressure, that intracranial pressure rises to dangerous levels. For such cases, paradoxical supportive management with intravenous fluid infusion, and reverse Trendelenburg positioning, is used to counteract the higher atmospheric pressure, as a bridge to definitive treatment with cranioplasty. These steps constitute an urgent and easily applied intervention to reduce further neurological deterioration, of which every trauma healthcare provider should be aware.
HRP2–DPF3a–BAF complex coordinates histone modification and chromatin remodeling to regulate myogenic gene transcription
Authors: Zhu Xu , Lan Bingxue , Yi Xianfu , He Chaoran , Dang Lin , Zhou Xingquan , Lu Yumei , Sun Yongzhan , Liu Zhiheng , Bai Xue , Zhang Kai , Li Bing , Li Mulin Jun , Chen Yupeng , Zhang Lirong
Published: May 2020

Functional crosstalk between histone modifications and chromatin remodeling has emerged as a key regulatory mode of transcriptional control during cell fate decisions, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here we discover an HRP2–DPF3a–BAF epigenetic pathway that coordinates methylated histone H3 lysine 36 (H3K36me) and ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling to regulate chromatin dynamics and gene transcription during myogenic differentiation. Using siRNA screening targeting epigenetic modifiers, we identify hepatoma-derived growth factor-related protein 2 (HRP2) as a key regulator of myogenesis. Knockout of HRP2 in mice leads to impaired muscle regeneration. Mechanistically, through its HIV integrase binding domain (IBD), HRP2 associates with the BRG1/BRM-associated factor (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex by interacting directly with the BAF45c (DPF3a) subunit. Through its Pro-Trp-Trp-Pro (PWWP) domain, HRP2 preferentially binds to H3K36me2. Consistent with the biochemical studies, ChIP-seq analyses show that HRP2 colocalizes with DPF3a across the genome and that the recruitment of HRP2/DPF3a to chromatin is dependent on H3K36me2. Integrative transcriptomic and cistromic analyses, coupled with ATAC-seq, reveal that HRP2 and DPF3a activate myogenic genes by increasing chromatin accessibility through recruitment of BRG1, the ATPase subunit of the BAF complex. Taken together, these results illuminate a key role for the HRP2-DPF3a-BAF complex in the epigenetic coordination of gene transcription during myogenic differentiation.
Pineal parenchymal tumor of intermediate differentiation: a single-institution experience
Authors: Nam Joo Yeon , Gilbert Andrea , Cachia David , Mandel Jacob , Fuller Gregory N , Penas-Prado Marta , de Groot John , Kamiya-Matsuoka Carlos
Published: May 2020

Background

Pineal parenchymal tumors are exceedingly rare brain tumors responsible for less than 1% of all adult primary intracranial malignancies in the United States. In this study, we describe the clinicopathologic features, management, and outcomes of patients with pineal parenchymal tumor of intermediate differentiation (PPTID).

Methods

We describe a single-center, multidisciplinary team experience in managing PPTID patients over a 15-year period (January 2000 to January 2015) at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC). Pathology was reviewed by the pathology collaborators (A.G. and G.N.F.) and retrospective chart review was performed for treatment and clinical outcomes.

Results

We identified 17 patients (9 male) with diagnosis of PPTID. Median age at diagnosis of PPTID was 37 years (range, 15-57 years). Follow-up ranged from 0.1 to 162.8 months with 6 reported deaths. Most patients presented with headaches and diplopia. Three patients had neuroaxial dissemination at initial diagnosis, and recurrence of tumor was common (7/16) despite treatment.

Conclusions

No clear prognostic factors were identified in this series. Extension of resection showed a trend toward improved survival. PPTID with neuroaxial dissemination benefits from aggressive initial treatment including craniospinal irradiation and adjuvant chemotherapy, whereas localized disease may be treated traditionally with maximum debulking followed by adjuvant radiotherapy alone. Long-term monitoring is recommended for neurotoxicity and/or late recurrence.
Intensive Longitudinal Study of the Relationship Between Cigalike E-cigarette Use and Cigarette Smoking Among Adult Cigarette Smokers Without Immediate Plans to Quit Smoking
Authors: Pearson Jennifer L , Zhou Yitong , Smiley Sabrina L , Rubin Leslie F , Harvey Emily , Koch Brandon , Niaura Raymond , Abrams David B
Published: May 2020

Introduction

This study examined the association between the introduction of an e-cigarette and subsequent change in cigarette smoking among smokers who were not immediately interested in quitting.

Aims and Methods

The Moment Study was a 21-day intensive longitudinal study with an online follow-up survey at 30 days. After observing baseline cigarette smoking for 1 week, participants received 10 cigalike e-cigarettes on study days 6 and 13. Participants reported cigarettes per day, e-cigarette puffs per day, and e-cigarette satisfaction using text-message-based surveys.

Results

The sample of 96 daily smokers was majority female (53.1%), African American (67.7%), and non-Hispanic (95.8%). When e-cigarettes were provided (day 6), average cigarettes per day dropped by 1.82 cigarettes (p < .0001). The within-person e-cigarette puff effect on daily cigarette smoking was significantly negative (β = −0.023; p = .005); a participant who consumed 100 more e-cigarette puffs in a day than usual for that person was expected to smoke 2.3 fewer cigarettes that day, but this was only true for non-menthol smokers (p = .006). Smokers older than 45 and those who started smoking at a younger age rated e-cigarettes as less satisfying (ps < .05). Participants with greater than the median reported satisfaction were 6.5 times more likely to use an e-cigarette at follow-up.

Conclusions

Giving e-cigarettes to smokers who did not intend to quit reduced their cigarette smoking on days when they used e-cigarette more frequently, but this relationship did not hold for menthol smokers. Satisfaction with e-cigarette use was predictive of continued use 30 days later.

Implications

A greater amount of cigalike e-cigarette use resulted in less smoking among adult daily smokers without immediate plans to quit, but a lack of nicotine delivery and satisfaction for these devices may have limited their utility as a replacement for cigarette smoking, especially among menthol smokers. The global concept of “satisfaction” may be an important driver of e-cigarette use among adult smokers.
International spillover effects of U.S. tax reforms: evidence from Germany
Authors: Christofzik Désirée I , Elstner Steffen
Published: May 2020

This paper explores the international transmission of U.S. tax shocks. Using structural vector autoregressions, we study the impact on the German economy and on German tax legislation. Our results suggest that, after a U.S. tax cut, German GDP increases only moderately. Positive effects via the income channel outweigh negative effects stemming from price developments. Significant changes in the transmission channels arise by distinguishing between the types of the U.S. tax shock. German tax policy either reacts with diametric measures, or remains passive when considering the whole sample period. For a sample starting in 1980, we find that, in particular, after U.S. corporate income tax cuts, tax reductions are also implemented in Germany.
White Matter Governed Superior Frontal Sulcus Surgical Paradigm: A Radioanatomic Microsurgical Study—Part II
Authors: Kassam Amin B , Monroy-Sosa Alejandro , Fukui Melanie B , Kura Bhavani , Jennings Jonathan E , Celix Juanita M , Nash Kenneth C , Kassam Mikaeel , Rovin Richard A , Chakravarthi Srikant S
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Kocher's point (KP) and its variations have provided standard access to the frontal horn (FH) for over a century. Anatomic understanding of white matter tracts (WMTs) has evolved, now positioning us to better inform the optimal FH trajectory.

OBJECTIVE

To (1) undertake a literature review analyzing entry points (EPs) to the FH; (2) introduce a purpose-built WMT-founded superior frontal sulcus parafascicular (SFSP)-EP also referred to as the Kassam-Monroy entry point (KM-EP); and (3) compare KM-EP with KP and variants with respect to WMTs.

METHODS

(1) Literature review (PubMed database, 1892-2018): (a) stratification based on the corridor: i. ventricular catheter; ii. through-channel endoscopic; or iii. portal; (b) substratification based on intent: i. preoperatively planned or ii. intraoperative (postdural opening) for urgent ventricular drainage. (2) Anatomic comparisons of KM-EP, KP, and variants via (a) cadaveric dissections and (b) magnetic resonance-diffusion tensor imaging computational 3D modeling.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies met inclusion criteria: (a) 9 utilized KP coordinate (1 cm anterior to the coronal suture (y-axis) and 3 cm lateral of the midline (x-axis) approximated by the midpupillary line) and 22 EPs represented variations. All 31 traversed critical subcortical WMTs, specifically the frontal aslant tract, superior longitudinal fasciculus II, and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, whereas KM-EP (x = 2.3, y = 3.5) spares these WMTs.

CONCLUSION

KP (x = 3, y = 1) conceived over a century ago, prior to awareness of WMTs, as well as its variants, anatomically place critical WMTs at risk. The KM-EP (x = 2.3, y = 3.5) is purpose built and founded on WMTs, representing anatomically safe access to the FH. Correlative clinical safety, which will be directly proportional to the size of the corridor, is yet to be established in prospective studies.
Enchantment in an Age of Reform: Fortune-Telling Fever in Post-Mao China, 1980s–1990s*
Authors: Baum Emily
Published: May 2020

Soon after the death of Mao Zedong in 1976, China experienced a ‘fortune-telling fever’. After having been suppressed by the Chinese Communist Party for the previous three decades, fortune tellers re-emerged in the 1980s to publish extensively on the topic and ply their trade in public. Yet despite the general relaxation of state policies toward folk beliefs, fortune telling was still considered a ‘superstition’ and therefore remained against the law. To bypass ongoing proscriptions against divinatory practices and publications, fortune tellers began to frame their undertakings in a language that closely mirrored two priorities of the post-Mao state: the advancement of scientific research and the reclamation of traditional culture. As this article argues, the example of China’s fortune-telling fever adds a new perspective to studies that have viewed the resurgence of Chinese spirituality as a form of communal resistance against an atheist regime. Rather than combating the government’s accusation that their practices were superstitious, fortune tellers instead positioned themselves as allies of the state by appealing to its rhetoric of science and cultural nationalism. Downplaying the mystical qualities of their craft, they framed divination as an academic and economic endeavour, one that was both compatible with secular modernity and in keeping with the Chinese Communist Party’s demands for entrepreneurial activity.
On the Perception and Use of Information from Social Media in Investigative Police Work: Findings from a Scandinavian Study
Authors: Rønn Kira Vrist , Rasmussen Bjørn K , Skou Roer Thomas , Meng Christian
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this article is to report from a qualitative Scandinavian study with the aim of shedding some light on how investigators in the Scandinavian police services perceive the use of information from social media in investigative police work. Based on 12 group interviews and 49 informants from Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish police services, we present three overarching themes mirroring the general perception amongst the interviewed investigators that: (1) information from social media is valuable in almost all types of crime investigation; (2) the use of social media information is fraught with technical pitfalls resulting in a general fear of making mistakes; (3) the legal frameworks governing digital investigative action are vague, leading to a feeling amongst the investigators of working in a grey zone. Overall, the informants express the view that this seemingly unregulated part of investigative work requires a major overhaul.
Presenting symptoms, diagnoses and in-hospital mortality in a low resource hospital environment
Authors: Wasingya-Kasereka L , Nakitende I , Nabiryo J , Namujwiga T , Kellett J ,   the Kitovu Hospital Study Group
Published: May 2020

Background

The relationship between symptoms, signs and discharge diagnoses with in-hospital mortality is poorly defined in low-resource settings.

Aim

To explore the prevalence of presenting symptoms, signs and discharge diagnoses of medical patients admitted to a low-resource sub-Saharan hospital and their association with in-hospital mortality.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, the presenting symptoms and signs of all medical patients admitted to a low-resource hospital in sub-Saharan Africa, their discharge diagnoses and in-hospital mortality were recorded.

Results

Pain, gastro-intestinal complaints and feverishness were the commonest presenting symptoms, but none were associated with in-hospital mortality. Only headache was associated with decreased mortality, and no symptom was associated with increased in-hospital mortality. Malaria was the commonest diagnosis. Vital signs, mobility, mental alertness and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) had the strongest association with in-hospital mortality. Tuberculosis and cancer were the only diagnoses associated with in-hospital mortality after adjustment for these signs.

Conclusion

Vital signs, mobility, mental alertness and MUAC had the strongest association with in-hospital mortality. All these signs can easily be determined at the bedside at no additional cost and, after adjustment for them by logistic regression the only diagnoses that remain statistically associated with in-hospital mortality are tuberculosis and cancer.
Human Capital Development and Parental Investment in India
Authors: Attanasio Orazio , Meghir Costas , Nix Emily
Published: May 2020

We estimate production functions for cognition and health for children aged 1–12 in India, based on the Young Lives Survey. India has over 70 million children aged 0–5 who are at risk of developmental deficits. The inputs into the production functions include parental background, prior child cognition and health, and child investments, which are taken as endogenous. Estimation is based on a nonlinear factor model, based on multiple measurements for both inputs and child outcomes. Our results show an important effect of early health on child cognitive development, which then becomes persistent. Parental investments affect cognitive development at all ages, but more so for younger children. Investments also have an impact on health at early ages only.
Coexistence of systemic and localized scleroderma: a systematic literature review and observational cohort study
Authors: Vanhaecke Amber , De Schepper Sofie , Paolino Sabrina , Heeman Lise , Callens Hanne , Gutermuth Jan , Nguyen Sara , Cutolo Maurizio , Smith Vanessa
Published: May 2020

Objective

SSc and localized sclerosis (LoS) are considered clinically distinct entities. We describe herein the coexistence of SSc and LoS by both a systematic literature review and an observational cohort study of unselected SSc patients.

Methods

Original studies documenting the coexistence of SSc and LoS were identified in three electronic databases by means of a systematic literature search according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Additionally, the coexistence of SSc and LoS was studied in a prospective cohort of SSc patients visiting the Ghent University Scleroderma Unit for their yearly follow-up visit between January 2018 and January 2019.

Results

Five studies were finally included for quality appraisal and data extraction. The coexistence of SSc and LoS ranged between 2.4 and 7.4%. RP, scleroderma pattern on nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) and the presence of SSc-specific antibodies were commonly observed in coexistent cases. Additionally, coexistence of SSc and LoS was found in 8/296 (2.7%) consecutive SSc patients of the Ghent University Scleroderma Unit. RP was present in 6/8 coexistent cases; a scleroderma pattern on NVC was observed in all coexistent cases, and SSc-specific antibodies (i.e. cenp-B) were found in 4/8 coexistent cases.

Conclusion

This is the first systematic literature review with additional cohort evaluation investigating the coexistence of SSc and LoS. A relatively high overlap of SSc and LoS was revealed, which is peculiar because both are rare diseases.
Inhibition of hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met signalling abrogates joint destruction by suppressing monocyte migration in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Hosonuma Masahiro , Sakai Nobuhiro , Furuya Hidekazu , Kurotaki Yutaro , Sato Yurie , Handa Kazuaki , Dodo Yusuke , Ishikawa Koji , Tsubokura Yumi , Negishi-Koga Takako , Tsuji Mayumi , Kasama Tsuyoshi , Kiuchi Yuji , Takami Masamichi , Isozaki Takeo
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To determine the expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in RA biological fluids, the role of HGF in monocyte migration and the therapeutic effect of the c-Met inhibitor savolitinib in an arthritis model mice.

Methods

HGF/c-Met expression in serum, SF and synovial tissues (STs) obtained from RA patients and controls, as well as RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs), was evaluated by ELISA and immunostaining. To determine the function of HGF in RA SF, we preincubated RA SF with a neutralizing anti-HGF antibody and measured the chemotactic ability of a human acute monocytic leukaemia cell line (THP-1). Additionally, examinations were conducted of SKG mice treated with savolitinib for 4 weeks.

Results

HGF levels in serum from RA patients were significantly higher than those in the controls and were decreased by drug treatment for 24 weeks. Additionally, the HGF level in SF from RA patients was higher than that in SF from OA patients. HGF and c-Met expression was also noted in RA STs. Stimulation of RA FLSs with TNF-α increased HGF/c-Met expression in a concentration-dependent manner, and c-Met signal inhibition suppressed production of fractalkine/CX3CL1 and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α/CCL3. When HGF was removed by immunoprecipitation, migration of THP-1 in RA SF was suppressed. In SKG mice, savolitinib significantly suppressed ankle bone destruction on µCT, with an associated reduction in the number of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive osteoclasts.

Conclusion

HGF produced by inflammation in synovium of RA patients activates monocyte migration to synovium and promotes bone destruction via a chemotactic effect and enhanced chemokine production.
Influence of proton pump inhibitor or rebamipide use on gut microbiota of rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Kim Ji-Won , Jeong Yunju , Park Sang-Jun , Jin Hui , Lee Jennifer , Ju Ji Hyeon , Ji Geun Eog , Park Sung-Hwan
Published: May 2020

Objective

Patients with RA commonly use gastrointestinal (GI) protective drugs for treatment and prevention of drug-associated GI injuries. However, how these drugs affect the gut microbiota in RA patients remains unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the gut microbiota of RA patients according to use of GI protective drugs such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine 2-receptor antagonists and rebamipide.

Methods

Faecal samples were obtained from 15 healthy controls and 32 RA patients who were receiving PPI, histamine 2-receptor antagonist or rebamipide. Bacterial DNA was extracted from the faecal samples and 16S rRNA sequencing was performed. Microbial composition and function were analysed using Quantitative Insights Into Microbial Ecology and Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States.

Results

RA patients exhibited reduced diversity and altered composition of the gut microbiota compared with healthy controls. The gut microbiota of RA patients receiving acid-suppressing drugs, particularly PPIs, was distinct from that of RA patients receiving rebamipide (PPI vs rebamipide, P = 0.005). Streptococcus was enriched in RA patients receiving PPI, while Clostridium bolteae was enriched in RA patients receiving rebamipide. The gut microbiota of PPI users was abundant with microbial functional pathway involved in the production of virulence factors. This featured microbial function was positively correlated with relative abundance of Streptococcus, the differentially abundant taxa of PPI users.

Conclusion

The gut microbiota of RA patients receiving PPIs was distinguishable from that of those receiving rebamipide. The enriched virulent function in the gut microbiota of PPI users suggests that inappropriate PPI use may be harmful in RA patients.
Markov-Modulated Continuous-Time Markov Chains to Identify Site- and Branch-Specific Evolutionary Variation in BEAST
Authors: Baele Guy , Gill Mandev S , Bastide Paul , Lemey Philippe , Suchard Marc A
Published: May 2020

Markov models of character substitution on phylogenies form the foundation of phylogenetic inference frameworks. Early models made the simplifying assumption that the substitution process is homogeneous over time and across sites in the molecular sequence alignment. While standard practice adopts extensions that accommodate heterogeneity of substitution rates across sites, heterogeneity in the process over time in a site-specific manner remains frequently overlooked. This is problematic, as evolutionary processes that act at the molecular level are highly variable, subjecting different sites to different selective constraints over time, impacting their substitution behavior. We propose incorporating time variability through Markov-modulated models (MMMs), which extend covarion-like models and allow the substitution process (including relative character exchange rates as well as the overall substitution rate) at individual sites to vary across lineages. We implement a general MMM framework in BEAST, a popular Bayesian phylogenetic inference software package, allowing researchers to compose a wide range of MMMs through flexible XML specification. Using examples from bacterial, viral, and plastid genome evolution, we show that MMMs impact phylogenetic tree estimation and can substantially improve model fit compared to standard substitution models. Through simulations, we show that marginal likelihood estimation accurately identifies the generative model and does not systematically prefer the more parameter-rich MMMs. To mitigate the increased computational demands associated with MMMs, our implementation exploits recent developments in BEAGLE, a high-performance computational library for phylogenetic inference. [Bayesian inference; BEAGLE; BEAST; covarion, heterotachy; Markov-modulated models; phylogenetics.]
A Rapid, Equipment-Free Method for DetectingPhytophthora infestansin the Field Using a Lateral Flow Strip-Based Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Assay
Authors: Lu Xinyu , Zheng Ying , Zhang Fan , Yu Jia , Dai Tingting , Wang Rongbo , Tian Yuee , Xu Heng , Shen Danyu , Dou Daolong
Published: May 2020

Late blight, caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans, is a major constraint on the production of potatoes and tomatoes as well as a constant threat to global food security. An early diagnostic tool is important for the effective management of late blight in the field. Here, in combination with a simplified DNA extraction method, we developed a lateral flow strip-based recombinase polymerase amplification (LF-RPA) assay for the rapid, equipment-free detection of P. infestans. This assay targets the Ras-related protein (Ypt1) gene and can be performed over a wide range of temperatures (25 to 45°C). All 12 P. infestans isolates yielded positive detection results using the LF-RPA assay, and no cross-reaction occurred with related oomycetes or fungal species. With this assay, the detection limit was 500 fg of genomic DNA in optimized conditions. Furthermore, by combining a simplified polyethylene glycol-NaOH method for extracting DNA from plant samples, the entire LF-RPA assay enabled the detection of P. infestans within 30 min with no specialized equipment. When applied to field samples, it successfully detected P. infestans in naturally diseased potato plants from eight different fields in China. Therefore, the LF-RPA assay is simple, rapid, and cost-effective and has potential for further development as a kit for diagnosing late blight in resource-limited settings or even on-site.
Timing of Susceptibility to Fusarium Head Blight in Winter Wheat
Authors: Cowger Christina , Beccari Giovanni , Dong Yanhong
Published: May 2020

The duration of wheat susceptibility to Fusarium infection has implications for risk forecasting, fungicide timing, and the likelihood that visible kernel damage may underpredict deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination. A field experiment was conducted to explore the impact of varying infection timings on Fusarium head blight (FHB) development in winter wheat. Trials in four successive years (2010 to 2013) in North Carolina utilized one susceptible and one moderately resistant cultivar possessing similar maturity, stature, and grain quality. Inoculum was applied in the form of sprayed Fusarium graminearum conidia. In the first year, the nine infection timings were from 0 to 21 days after anthesis (daa), whereas in the following 3 years, they ranged from 0 to 13 daa. Infection progression was compared among inoculation timings by sampling spikes five to six times during grain-fill. Based on DON, percent kernel damage and kernel infection, and fungal spread as assayed via qPCR, the moderately resistant cultivar had at least a 2- to 3-day shorter window of susceptibility to damaging FHB infection than the susceptible cultivar. The results suggest that duration of susceptibility is an important aspect of cultivar resistance to FHB. In 2012, the window of susceptibility for both cultivars was extended by cold snaps during anthesis. After debranning in one year, the majority of DON was found to be in the bran fraction of kernels; there was also a trend for later infections to lead to a higher percentage of DON in the nonbran fraction, as well as a higher ratio of DON to FDK.
Omalizumab and other biologics in drug desensitization
Authors: Fernandez Javier , Ruano-Zaragoza María , Blanca-Lopez Natalia
Published: May 2020

Purpose of review

Omalizumab has been proposed for controlling adverse reactions during drug desensitization. Our aim is to know the current evidence involving the use of omalizumab in drug-allergy desensitization.

Recent findings

Drug-allergy desensitization is not risk free, but it is a useful procedure and has been applied for drug hypersensitivity reactions with mast cells degranulation through IgE and non-IgE mechanisms. Since 2007, omalizumab has been considered as a potential strategy to prevent adverse reactions.

Our review found few case reports and only one randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study, using different omalizumab regimens prior to drug desensitization. This scarce evidence is insufficient to predict the effectiveness of omalizumab in rapid drug desensitization procedures, but it may be useful in future studies of omalizumab or related next-generation antibodies.

Omalizumab or other IgE-targeting biologics, either a fixed dose of 300 mg omalizumab or a dose-related total IgE level and body mass weight may be an option for patients with IgE-mediated or mast cell drug reactions in troublesome desensitization.
Critical Care Clinician Reports on Coronavirus Disease 2019: Results From a National Survey of 4,875 ICU Providers
Authors: Kaplan Lewis J. , Kleinpell Ruth , Maves Ryan C. , Doersam Jennifer K. , Raman Rameela , Ferraro David M.
Published: May 2020

Importance:

Global cases of coronavirus disease 2019 infection continue to increase, and significant numbers of patients are critically ill, placing an immense burden on ICU resources. Understanding baseline resource needs and surge capacity in the ICU will be essential to meet current and projected healthcare needs. Continued appraisal of the state of readiness for healthcare systems at individual, regional and national levels will be paramount to ensure we are poised to continue the fight against coronavirus disease 2019.

Objectives:

This study queried U.S. ICU clinician perspectives on ICU preparedness and concerns regarding delivering coronavirus disease 2019 patient care.

Design, Setting, and Participants:

An anonymous web-based survey administered from March 18, 2020, to March 25, 2020 (email and newsletter) used survey methodology to query members of U.S. national critical care organizations.

Main Outcomes and Measures:

Through a 12-item descriptive questionnaire, ICU clinicians were assessed regarding preparedness, techniques employed to augment critical care capacity, and concerns related to caring for coronavirus disease 2019 patients.

Results:

A total of 4,875 ICU clinicians responded to the survey. Respondents included ICU nurses (n = 3,470, 71.3%), physicians (n = 664, 13.6%), advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants; n = 334, 6.9%), respiratory therapists (n = 236, 4.9%), and pharmacists (n = 79, 1.6%). Over half (n = 2,552, 52.5%) reported having cared for a presumed or confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 patient. The majority (n = 4,010, 82.9%) identified that their hospital was employing techniques to augment critical care capacity. However, 64.5% (n = 3,125) believed that their ICU facility and team were inadequately prepared to treat coronavirus disease 2019 patients. The majority (n = 4,547, 93.9%) anticipated ICU personal protective equipment shortages based upon their current use profile. The chief reported concerns include ICU resource shortages such as supplies, medications, beds, ICU staffing shortages, and patient surge leading to overcrowding.

Conclusions and Relevance:

This national ICU clinician survey indicates that hospitals are expanding ICU bed capacity to prepare for coronavirus disease 2019 patient surge. Importantly, amid this preparation, ICU clinicians harbor concerns regarding preparedness, staffing, and common use resources that merit specific education as well as resource allocation and utilization planning.
Targeted molecular imaging of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a window into precision medicine
Authors: Wu Jun , Yuan Ying , Tao Xiao-Feng
Published: May 2020

Tumor biomarkers play important roles in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Imaging of specific biomarkers will help to understand different biological activities, thereby achieving precise medicine for each head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patient. Here, we describe various molecular targets and molecular imaging modalities for HNSCC imaging. An extensive search was undertaken in the PubMed database with the keywords including “HNSCC,” “molecular imaging,” “biomarker,” and “multimodal imaging.” Imaging targets in HNSCC consist of the epidermal growth factor receptor, cluster of differentiation 44 variant 6 (CD44v6), and mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor and integrins. Targeted molecular imaging modalities in HNSCC include optical imaging, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and single-photon emission computed tomography. Making the most of each single imaging method, targeted multimodal imaging has a great potential in the accurate diagnosis and therapy of HNSCC. By visualizing tumor biomarkers at cellular and molecular levels in vivo, targeted molecular imaging can be used to identify specific genetic and metabolic aberrations, thereby accelerating personalized treatment development for HNSCC patients.