bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Availability and perceived usefulness of guidelines and protocols for subcutaneous hydration in palliative care settings
Authors: Cabañero‐Martínez María José , Ramos‐Pichardo Juan Diego , Velasco‐Álvarez María Luisa , García‐Sanjuán Sofía , Lillo‐Crespo Manuel , Cabrero‐García Julio
Published: August 2019

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the availability of, adherence to, and perceived usefulness of guidelines and protocols for managing hydration and subcutaneous hydration in palliative care settings.

Background

Hydration at the end of life and the use of a subcutaneous route to hydrate generate some controversy among health professionals for different reasons. Having guidelines and protocols to assist in decision‐making and to follow a standard procedure may be relevant in clinical practice.

Design

Cross‐sectional telephone survey, with closed‐ended and open‐ended questions designed specifically for this study.

Methods

Data were obtained from 327 professionals, each from a different palliative care service. Mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum were calculated for continuous variables; frequency distributions were obtained for categorical variables. A qualitative content analysis was performed on the open‐ended questions. The article adheres to the STROBE guidelines for reporting observational studies.

Results

Only 24.8% of the participants had guidelines available to assist in making decisions regarding hydration, and 55.6% claimed to follow them ‘always or almost always’. Of the participants, 38.8% had subcutaneous hydration protocols available, while 78.7% stated that they ‘always or almost always’ followed these protocols. The remaining participants considered the protocols as useful tools despite not having them available.

Conclusions

Only 25% of the participants' services had guidelines for hydration, and less than 40% had protocols for subcutaneous hydration. However, adherence was high, especially in cases where protocols existed. Among the participants who did not have guidelines and protocols, attitudes were mostly favourable, but mainly as a reference and support for an individualised clinical practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Guidelines and protocols on hydration in palliative care may be more useful as a solid reference and support for individualised practice than as instruments for standardising care. From this perspective, their development and availability in palliative care services are recommended.
A simple classification of peritoneal contamination in perforated appendicitis predicts surgery‐related complications
Authors: Wee Jia J , Park Chang J , Lee York T , Cheong Yee L , Rai Rambha , Nah Shireen A
Published: August 2019

Aim

Perforated appendicitis has poorer clinical outcomes compared to non‐perforated appendicitis. However, accurate outcome comparisons in research and clinical audits are challenged by its wide spectrum of manifestation. Previous attempts at the classification of severity have been complex and difficult to reproduce. In our study, we used another institution's (Jones et al., TX, USA) previously described simple classification system of peritoneal contamination and examined its usefulness in predicting outcomes.

Methods

With ethical approval, we retrospectively reviewed the records of all paediatric patients operated at our institution for perforated appendicitis from 2016 to 2017. Patient demographics, intra‐operative and histological findings, post‐operative outcomes and length of stay were collected. Patients were categorised into group 1 (purulence in right lower quadrant only) and group 2 (contamination in two or more quadrants). Post‐operative complications were defined as procedure‐related (e.g. post‐operative ileus, intra‐abdominal abscess, visceral injury) and non‐procedure‐related (e.g. bronchospasm). Statistical analysis using χ2 tests for categorical data and Mann–Whitney U‐tests for non‐parametric continuous variables was performed, with a significance of P < 0.05.

Results

There were 134 eligible patients. We excluded 19 with incomplete data, leaving 115 for analysis, of which 69 (60%) were in group 2. Those in group 2 had a longer stay (P = 0.005) and more post‐operative complications (P = 0.001), particularly procedure‐related events (P = 0.006). There were no differences in age (P = 0.182), gender (P = 0.876), readmission rate (P = 0.317) and non‐procedure‐related post‐operative complications (0.152).

Conclusion

This simple classification of perforated appendicitis appears to differentiate clinical outcomes well, particularly for iatrogenic morbidity, making it useful for operative preparation and outcomes research.
Optimising time samples for determining area under the curve of pharmacokinetic data using non-compartmental analysis
Authors: Hughes Jim H , Upton Richard N , Reuter Stephanie E , Phelps Mitch A , Foster David J R
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The selection of sample times for a pharmacokinetic study is important when trapezoidal integration (e.g. non-compartmental analysis) is used to determine the area under the concentration–time curve (AUC). The aim of this study was to develop an algorithm that determines optimal times that provide the most accurate AUC by minimising trapezoidal integration error.

Methods

The algorithm required initial single individual or mean pooled concentration data but did not specifically require a prior pharmacokinetic model. Optimal sample intervals were determined by minimising trapezoidal error using a genetic algorithm followed by a quasi-Newton method. The method was evaluated against simulated and clinical datasets to determine the method's ability to estimate the AUC.

Key findings

The sample times produced by the algorithm were able to accurately estimate the AUC of pharmacokinetic profiles, with the relative AUC having 90% confidence intervals of 0.919–1.05 for profiles with two-compartment kinetics. When comparing the algorithm with rich sampling (e.g. phase I trial), the algorithm provided equivalent or superior sample times with fewer observations.

Conclusions

The creation of the algorithm and its companion web application allows users with limited pharmacometric or programming training can obtain optimal sampling times for pharmacokinetic studies.
Patients' knowledge and attitudes about myocardial infarction
Authors: Noureddine Samar , Dumit Nuhad Y. , Maatouk Hassan
Published: August 2019

Delay in seeking emergency care contributes significantly to the mortality associated with myocardial infarction. The aims of this descriptive study were to determine Lebanese patients' knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about heart disease following their hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction, the factors associated, and to investigate the education they receive about heart disease. The study targeted 50 participants diagnosed with myocardial infarction who were interviewed about their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived control related to heart disease in their home 1 month after being discharged from hospital using the Acute Coronary Syndrome Response Index and the Control Attitude Scale–Revised. The findings showed inadequate knowledge, with only 26% scoring over 70%. Moreover, only 16% reported having received education about heart disease. The participants reported confidence in recognizing symptoms and getting assistance during a myocardial infarction. However, their beliefs regarding the importance of prompt seeking of emergency care for myocardial infarction and control over their disease were inconsistent. Patient education and counseling about recognizing and responding adequately to symptoms of myocardial infarction must be improved in both acute and primary healthcare settings.
The role of CYP71A12 monooxygenase in pathogen‐triggered tryptophan metabolism and Arabidopsis immunity
Authors: Pastorczyk Marta , Kosaka Ayumi , Piślewska‐Bednarek Mariola , López Gemma , Frerigmann Henning , Kułak Karolina , Glawischnig Erich , Molina Antonio , Takano Yoshitaka , Bednarek Paweł
Published: August 2019

Effective defense of Arabidopsis against filamentous pathogens requires two mechanisms, both of which involve biosynthesis of tryptophan (Trp)‐derived metabolites. Extracellular resistance involves products of PEN2‐dependent metabolism of indole glucosinolates (IGs). Restriction of further fungal growth requires PAD3‐dependent camalexin and other, as yet uncharacterized, indolics.

This study focuses on the function of CYP71A12 monooxygenase in pathogen‐triggered Trp metabolism, including the biosynthesis of indole‐3‐carboxylic acid (ICA). Moreover, to investigate the contribution of CYP71A12 and its products to Arabidopsis immunity, we analyzed infection phenotypes of multiple mutant lines combining pen2 with pad3, cyp71A12, cyp71A13 or cyp82C2.

Metabolite profiling of cyp71A12 lines revealed a reduction in ICA accumulation. Additionally, analysis of mutant plants showed that low amounts of ICA can form during an immune response by CYP71B6/AAO1‐dependent metabolism of indole acetonitrile, but not via IG hydrolysis. Infection assays with Plectosphaerella cucumerina and Colletotrichum tropicale, two pathogens with different lifestyles, revealed cyp71A12‐, cyp71A13‐ and cyp82C2‐associated defects associated with Arabidopsis immunity.

Our results indicate that CYP71A12, but not CYP71A13, is the major enzyme responsible for the accumulation of ICA in Arabidopsis in response to pathogen ingression. We also show that both enzymes are key players in the resistance of Arabidopsis against selected filamentous pathogens after they invade.
Periodontal disease in Chinese patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A case–control study
Authors: Zhao Rui , Gu Chaoyu , Zhang Qiuxiang , Zhou Wei , Feng Guijuan , Feng Xingmei , Dong Chen , Gu Zhifeng
Published: August 2019

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in Chinese rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Subjects and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 128 RA and 109 healthy controls. Two dentists conducted periodontal status including Plaque index (PI), Gingival index (GI), pocket probing depths (PPDs), Clinical attachment level (CAL) and Bleeding on probing (BOP) independently. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, clinical parameters and use of medication were assessed. Data were analyzed by Student's t test, χ2 test, Wilcoxin‐Mann‐ Whitney's test, Correlational Analysis, univariate or multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The periodontal status was significantly worse in RA, especially the condition of dental and gingival status. RA had 4.68‐fold. After adjusted potential risk factors, RA had 10.26‐fold. The independent variable related to GI was DAS28 (p = .05) negatively, to the contrary, ESR (p = .013) was positively associated; the independent variable positively and related to periodontitis was educational level (p = .021) and anti‐CCP positivity (p = .002). Through multivariate logistic regression, age and swollen joint were the independent variable related to periodontitis of RA (OR 1.087, p = .044) and (OR 1.560, p = .008) respectively.

Conclusions

Chinese RA patients show higher odds of PD. It is important to take early interventions in combination with medical therapy.
Conceptualising dignity in the context of social security: Bottom‐up and top‐down perspectives
Authors: Patrick Ruth , Simpson Mark
Published: August 2019

Dignity and social security have been closely associated since at least the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, but there is a lack of clarity around what dignity means in this context. This article explores how two key stakeholders—out‐of‐work benefit recipients and policymakers—understand dignity in the context of social security, drawing on qualitative research with each group. The evidence presented notes a relative absence of direct references to dignity among policymakers, although related issues are nonetheless discussed, whereas benefit recipients commonly articulate experiences of undignified treatment and the negative impact this has on their lives. This article's exploration of dignity is of particular relevance to Scotland, where recent framework legislation includes the principle that their security system should be underpinned by “respect for the dignity of individuals.” The authors propose that a social security system that protects dignity must take account of distributional, relational, and intrinsic aspects of dignity—providing sufficient income, treating users with respect, and avoiding interventions or discourses that are disrespectful and dehumanizing. Further, the authors question whether it is possible for dignity to enjoy meaningful protection within highly disciplinary conditional welfare regimes.
The role of volatiles in plant communication
Authors: Bouwmeester Harro , Schuurink Robert C. , Bleeker Petra M. , Schiestl Florian
Published: August 2019

Volatiles mediate the interaction of plants with pollinators, herbivores and their natural enemies, other plants and micro‐organisms. With increasing knowledge about these interactions the underlying mechanisms turn out to be increasingly complex. The mechanisms of biosynthesis and perception of volatiles are slowly being uncovered. The increasing scientific knowledge can be used to design and apply volatile‐based agricultural strategies.
Trade liberalisation and labour shares in China
Authors: Kamal Fariha , Lovely Mary E. , Mitra Devashish
Published: August 2019

We estimate the extent to which firms responded to tariff reductions associated with China's WTO entry by altering labour's share of value. Firm‐level regressions indicate that firms in industries subject to tariff cuts raised labour's share relative to economy‐wide trends, both through input choices and rent sharing. Our estimates suggest that, on average, an industry that experienced no reductions in output or input tariffs would have a 15.7% lower labour share of value in 2007 than it actually did, assuming the same economy‐wide trends. There is significant variation across firms: the impact attenuates with geographic remoteness and union presence and strengthens with foreign ownership.
Miocene diversification of an open‐habitat predatorial passerine radiation, the shrikes (Aves: Passeriformes: Laniidae)
Authors: Fuchs Jérôme , Alström Per , Yosef Reuven , Olsson Urban
Published: August 2019

Diversification of avifaunas associated with savannah and steppes appears to correlate with open habitats becoming available, starting in the Miocene. Few comparative analyses exist for families for which all species are predominantly adapted to these habitats. One such group is Laniidae (Passeriformes), which are small‐ to medium‐sized predatory passerines known for their distinctive behaviour of impaling prey. We used multispecies coalescent‐based and concatenation methods to provide the first complete species‐level phylogeny for this group, as well as an estimate of the timing of diversification. Our analyses indicate that Laniidae as currently delimited is not monophyletic, as the genus Eurocephalus is not closely related to the remaining species. The two species currently assigned to the monotypic genera Urolestes and Corvinella are part of the same clade as the Lanius species, and we propose that they are included in the genus Lanius, making Laniidae monogeneric. The initial diversification of the clade is inferred to have occurred very rapidly, starting about 7.2–9.1 million years ago, timing depending on calibration method, but in either case coinciding with the expansion of C4 grasses. An African origin is inferred in the biogeographic analysis. In the redefined Laniidae, cooperative breeding is inferred to be restricted to a single clade, characterized by gregarious behaviour and rallying. Migratory behaviour evolved multiple times within the family.
How Sovereign Is a State From Foreign Intervention? Gambia as a Case Study
Authors: Beatrice Omodanisi Kemi
Published: August 2019

This paper examines to what extent is Gambia sovereign from foreign intervention. It considers the legality or otherwise of ECOWAS’ military intervention in the recent post-election/ political crisis in Gambia. Bearing in mind that national sovereignty in international law is not absolute as International Humanitarian Law, Human Right and International Criminal Law have provided exceptions, this paper highlight situations which permit foreign intervention in a state and considers the various argument of writers on the legality/illegality of ECOWAS’ military intervention in Gambia. The paper argues that ECOWAS’ military intervention lacks the requisite authorisation of the UN Security Council who by its resolution permitted the application of political measures only. ECOWAS also failed to meet the requirement for the application of Responsibility to Protect (R2P) in Gambia. More so, intervention on the basis of restoring democracy is void of legal backing as the enabling protocol permits ECOWAS to apply sanctions on member-state where democracy is abruptly brought to an end. On the whole, this paper concludes that though ECOWAS’ military intervention is justifiable in view of the situation in Gambia, it however lacked the requisite legal backing. The paper recommends that in situations where intervention is not based on humanitarian reason to necessitate the application of R2P, military intervention should have the requisite authorisation of the UN Security Council and the application of force should be the last option having exhausted all other means of dispute resolution.
Closed Circuit Television Systems on University Campuses: Unexamined Implications for the Expectation of Privacy and Academic Freedom
Authors: Lauer Thomas W , Meehan Albert J.
Published: August 2019

Since 9/11 and particularly since the massacre at Virginia Tech University in 2007, many universities in the United States have begun installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems on their campuses. What sorts of claims are being made about the use of these systems and what justifications are there for installing them? How might the pervasive use of monitoring technology affect traditional values associated with university life such as freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, privacy, and the freedom to explore? What policies are in place to ensure that whatever benefits associated with these systems justify both tangible and intangible costs?Our analysis is partially derived from a study of university policies in the United States concerning the installation and operation of CCTV systems with the aim of gaining insight into these questions. In addition, we used a coding instrument for analyzing the corpus of policies in order to understand how the policies addressed such issues as: rationale or justification for CCTV usage, relevant personnel roles, public awareness, accountability measures, information security and data handling, routine operations of usage, and any relevant limiting measures. One aspect of our study is to interpret the corpus of policies through the lens of Nissenbaum’s contextual integrity framework which is concerned with examining the effects of new technological practices (such as the installation of CCTV systems) on one’s expectation of privacy.
Fast qualitative two-dimensional mapping of ultrasound fields with acoustic cavitation-enhanced ultrasound imaging
Authors: Burgess Mark T. , Konofagou Elisa E.
Published: August 2019

Characterization of ultrasound fields is a routine procedure for both diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound. Quantitative field mapping with a calibrated hydrophone and multi-axis positioning system can be difficult and time consuming. In this study, the use of acoustic cavitation field mapping as a qualitative surrogate to acoustic pressure field mapping, albeit without acoustic pressure values is demonstrated. This technique allows for fast qualitative mapping of ultrasound fields and thereby functionality of the corresponding transducers, in a matter of seconds. In addition, this technique could be used to rapidly image in vivo acoustic cavitation fields during therapeutic ultrasound applications.
Drug-encapsulated carbon (DECON): A novel platform for enhanced drug delivery
Authors: Yadavalli Tejabhiram , Ames Joshua , Agelidis Alex , Suryawanshi Rahul , Jaishankar Dinesh , Hopkins James , Thakkar Neel , Koujah Lulia , Shukla Deepak
Published: August 2019

We describe a safe and natural carbon-based system to actively deliver drugs to mucosal surfaces
Increased atmospheric vapor pressure deficit reduces global vegetation growth
Authors: Yuan Wenping , Zheng Yi , Piao Shilong , Ciais Philippe , Lombardozzi Danica , Wang Yingping , Ryu Youngryel , Chen Guixing , Dong Wenjie , Hu Zhongming , Jain Atul K. , Jiang Chongya , Kato Etsushi , Li Shihua , Lienert Sebastian , Liu Shuguang , Nabel Julia E.M.S. , Qin Zhangcai , Quine Timothy , Sitch Stephen , Smith William K. , Wang Fan , Wu Chaoyang , Xiao Zhiqiang , Yang Song
Published: August 2019

Global vegetation greening trend stalled after the late 1990s due to increased atmospheric water demand.
Low Central Nervous System Posaconazole Concentrations during Cerebral Phaeohyphomycosis
Authors: Barde François , Billaud Eliane , Goldwirt Lauriane , Horodyckid Catherine , Jullien Vincent , Lanternier Fanny , Lesprit Philippe , Limousin Lucie , Cohen Jérémie F. , Lortholary Olivier
Published: August 2019

Posaconazole diffusion has been documented in various organs, which contrasts with the scarce data available for the human central nervous system (CNS). We analyzed posaconazole concentrations in plasma and multiple CNS specimens taken from a patient who received posaconazole because of cerebral phaeohyphomycosis. Low posaconazole concentrations were obtained in CNS specimens, with sample-to-plasma ratios between 5% and 22%.
Molecular Typing Reveals High Genetic Diversity of Xanthomonas translucens Strains Infecting Small-Grain Cereals in Iran
Authors: Khojasteh Moein , Taghavi S. Mohsen , Khodaygan Pejman , Hamzehzarghani Habiballah , Chen Gongyou , Bragard Claude , Koebnik Ralf , Osdaghi Ebrahim
Published: August 2019

Bacterial leaf streak (BLS) of small-grain cereals (i.e., wheat and barley) is one of the economically important diseases of gramineous crops worldwide. The disease occurs in many countries across the globe, with particular importance in regions characterized by high levels of precipitation. Two genetically distinct xanthomonads—namely,
Xanthomonas translucens
pv. undulosa and
X. translucens
pv. translucens—have been reported to cause BLS disease on small-grain cereals. As seed-borne pathogens, the causal agents are included in the A2 list of quarantine pathogens by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO). Despite its global distribution and high economic importance, the population structure, genetic diversity, and phylogeography of
X. translucens
remain undetermined. This study, using MLSA and MLST, provides a global-scale phylogeography of
X. translucens
strains infecting small-grain cereals. Based on the diversity parameters, neutrality indices, and population structure, we observe higher genetic diversity of the BLS pathogen in Iran, which is geographically close to the center of origin of common wheat, than has so far been observed in other areas of the world, including North America. The results obtained in this study provide a novel insight into the genetic diversity and population structure of the BLS pathogen of small-grain cereals on a global scale.
Draft Genome Sequence of Raoultella ornithinolytica P079F W, Isolated from the Feces of a Preterm Infant
Authors: Chen Yuhao , Brook Thomas C. , Alcon-Giner Cristina , Clarke Paul , Hall Lindsay J. , Hoyles Lesley
Published: August 2019

Here, we describe the draft genome sequence of
Raoultella ornithinolytica
P079F W, isolated from the feces of an infant residing in a neonatal intensive care unit during an ongoing study to characterize the neonate gut microbiota. P079F W will be used in studies investigating the role of the microbiome in neonatal infections.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Acidovorax
sp. Strain NB1, Isolated from a Nitrite-Oxidizing Enrichment Culture
Authors: Ide Hiroto , Ishii Kento , Fujitani Hirotsugu , Tsuneda Satoshi
Published: August 2019

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Acidovorax
sp. strain NB1, isolated from an enrichment culture of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB). Genes involved in denitrification were found in the draft genome of NB1. The closest strain to NB1 based on genomic relatedness is
Acidovorax
sp. strain GW101-3H11, with 91.5% average nucleotide identity.
Genome Sequences of Three Nocardia cyriacigeorgica Strains and One Nocardia asteroides Strain
Authors: Vautrin Florian , Bergeron Emmanuelle , Dubost Audrey , Abrouk Danis , Martin Christophe , Cournoyer Benoit , Louzier Vanessa , Winiarski Thierry , Rodriguez-Nava Veronica , Pujic Petar
Published: August 2019

We report four draft genome sequences of
Nocardia
spp. The strains are the
Nocardia cyriacigeorgica
DSM 44484 pathogenic type strain; two environmental isolates,
Nocardia cyriacigeorgica
EML446 and EML1456; and the
Nocardia asteroides
ATCC 19247 nonpathogenic type strain, with estimated genome sizes of 6.3 to 6.8 Mb. The study of these isolates will provide insight into physiology, evolution, and pathogenicity of
Nocardia
spp.
Complete Genome Sequence of Hydrocarbon-Degrading Halotolerant Acinetobacter radioresistens DD78, Isolated from the Aconcagua River Mouth in Central Chile
Authors: Macaya Constanza C. , Méndez Valentina , Durán Roberto E. , Aguila-Torres Patricia , Salvà-Serra Francisco , Jaén-Luchoro Daniel , Moore Edward R. B. , Seeger Michael
Published: August 2019

Acinetobacter radioresistens
strain DD78 (= CCUG 69565) is a soil hydrocarbon-degrading and biosurfactant-producing bacterium isolated from chronically crude oil-polluted soil of the Aconcagua River mouth in Chile. The 3.25-Mb
A. radioresistens
DD78 genome (41.8% GC content) was completely sequenced, with 4 replicons, 2,970 coding sequences, and 77 tRNAs.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Histamine-Producing Bacterium Enterobacter kobei Strain 42-12
Authors: Ohshima Chihiro , Sato Fumina , Takahashi Hajime , Kuda Takashi , Kimura Bon , Tao Zhi Hua
Published: August 2019

Bacterially produced histamine in food can be a cause of food poisoning. The whole-genome sequence is described for one histamine-producing
Enterobacter kobei
42-12 isolate from the edible portion of salted, dried fish.
Genome Sequences and Methylation Patterns of Natrinema versiforme BOL5-4 and Natrinema pallidum BOL6-1, Two Extremely Halophilic Archaea from a Bolivian Salt Mine
Authors: DasSarma Priya , Anton Brian P. , DasSarma Satyajit L. , Martinez Fabiana L. , Guzman Daniel , Roberts Richard J. , DasSarma Shiladitya
Published: August 2019

Two extremely halophilic archaea, namely,
Natrinema versiforme
BOL5-4 and
Natrinema pallidum
BOL6-1, were isolated from a Bolivian salt mine and their genomes sequenced using single-molecule real-time sequencing. The GC-rich genomes of BOL5-4 and BOL6-1 were 4.6 and 3.8 Mbp, respectively, with large chromosomes and multiple megaplasmids. Genome annotation was incorporated into HaloWeb and methylation patterns incorporated into REBASE.
Elucidation of the Genome of Bradyrhizobium sp. Strain USDA 3456, a Historic Agricultural Diazotroph from Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
Authors: White Richard Allen , Norman Jeffrey S. , Mclachlan Emily E. , Dunham Joseph P. , Garoutte Aaron , Friesen Maren L.
Published: August 2019

Bradyrhizobium
sp. strain USDA 3456 is a historic strain from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) National
Rhizobium
Germplasm Collection isolated from
Vigna unguiculata
(cowpea) in 1966. Strain USDA 3456 has been utilized in global agricultural applications, including improving soil nitrogen fertility. The draft genome sequence here provides a genetic reference of a novel diazotroph.
Sinonasal relapses of a primary isolated extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma of the testis
Authors: Hallak Bassel , Cairoli Anne , Bouayed Salim , Berthod Grégoire
Published: August 2019

WHO first recognised extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTCL) in 2001, thanks to technical advances in anatomopathology and immunohistochemistry. It is divided into nasal and extranasal subgroups depending on the primary site. Primary isolated NK/T-cell lymphoma of the testis is rare. Typical recurrence sites of primary testicular NK/T-cell lymphoma are the gastrointestinal tract, lymph nodes, skin, spleen and central nervous system. Nasal relapses of a primary NK/T-cell lymphoma of the testis are very rare and according to our knowledge, no other case has been reported yet in the literature. The authors report the case of a 35-year-old Caucasian man relapsing twice in the nasal cavity 1 year after initial diagnosis and treatment of a primary isolated, stage IE, ENKTCL of the testis. We report the clinical and radiological presentation of the nasal relapses and the different modalities of treatment that were applied. Sinonasal relapses of an isolated primary NK/T-cell lymphoma of the testis are very rare. ENKTCL is a very aggressive entity, even at an early stage, therefore, requiring a multimodal treatment approach including chemotherapy and radiotherapy. New strategies to treat this disease are needed.
Quality indicators for Barrett’s endotherapy (QBET): UK consensus statements for patients undergoing endoscopic therapy for Barrett’s neoplasia
Authors: Alzoubaidi Durayd , Ragunath Krish , Wani Sachin , Penman Ian D , Trudgill Nigel John , Jansen Marnix , Banks Matthew , Bhandari Pradeep , Morris Allan John , Willert Robert , Boger Phil , Smart Howard L , Ravi Narayanasamy , Dunn Jason , Gordon Charles , Mannath Jayan , Mainie Inder , di Pietro Massi , Veitch Andrew M , Thorpe Sally , Magee Cormac , Everson Martin , Sami Sarmed , Bassett Paul , Graham David , Attwood Stephen , Pech Oliver , Sharma Prateek , Lovat Laurence B , Haidry Rehan
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Endoscopic therapy for the management of patients with Barrett’s oesophagus (BE) neoplasia has significantly developed in the past decade; however, significant variation in clinical practice exists. The aim of this project was to develop expert physician-lead quality indicators (QIs) for Barrett’s endoscopic therapy.

Methods

The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method was used to combine the best available scientific evidence with the collective judgement of experts to develop quality indicators for Barrett’s endotherapy in four subgroups: pre-endoscopy, intraprocedure (resection and ablation) and postendoscopy. International experts, including gastroenterologists, surgeons, BE pathologist, clinical nurse specialist and patient representative, participated in a three-round process to develop 15 QIs that fulfilled the RAND/UCLA definition of appropriateness.

Results

17 experts participated in round 1 and 20 in round 2. Of the 24 proposed QIs in round 1, 20 were ranked as appropriate (put through to round 2) and 4 as uncertain (discarded). At the end of round 2, a final list of 15 QIs were scored as appropriate.

Conclusions

This UK national consensus project has successfully developed QIs for patients undergoing Barrett’s endotherapy. These QIs can be used by service providers to ensure that all patients with BE neoplasia receive uniform and high-quality care.
Interferon pathway in SLE: one key to unlocking the mystery of the disease
Authors: Rönnblom Lars , Leonard Dag
Published: August 2019

SLE is characterised by an activation of the interferon (IFN) system, which leads to an increased expression of IFN-regulated genes. The reasons behind the IFN signature in SLE are (1) the existence of endogenous IFN inducers, (2) activation of several IFN-producing cell types, (3) production of many different IFNs, (4) a genetic setup promoting IFN production and (5) deficient negative feedback mechanisms. The consequences for the immune system is a continuous stimulation to an immune response, and for the patient a number of different organ manifestations leading to typical symptoms for SLE. In the current review, we will present the existing knowledge of the IFN system and pathway activation in SLE. We will also discuss how this information can contribute to our understanding of both the aetiopathogenesis and some organ manifestations of the disease. We will put forward some issues that are unresolved and should be clarified in order to make a proper stratification of patients with SLE, which seems important when selecting a therapy aiming to downregulate the IFN system.
Web-based decision aid tool for disclosure of a mental health condition in the workplace: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Stratton Elizabeth , Choi Isabella , calvo Rafael , Hickie Ian , Henderson Claire , Harvey Samuel B , Glozier Nicholas
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Making decisions about disclosing a mental illness in the workplace is complicated. Decision aid tools are designed to help an individual make a specific choice. We developed a web-based decision aid to help inform decisions about disclosure for employees. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of this tool.

Method

We conducted a randomised controlled trial with recruitment, randomisation and data collection all online. Participants had access to the intervention for 2 weeks. Assessments occurred at baseline, postintervention and 6 weeks’ follow-up. The primary outcome was decisional conflict. Secondary outcomes were stage and satisfaction of decision-making and mental health symptoms.

Results

107 adult employees were randomised to READY (n=53) or the control (n=54). The sample was predominantly female (83.2%). Participants using READY showed greater reduction in decisional conflict at postintervention (F(1,104)=16.8, p<0.001) (d=0.49, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.9) and follow-up (F(1,104)=23.6, p<0.001) (d=0.61, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.9). At postintervention the READY group were at a later stage of decision-making (F(1,104)=6.9, p=0.010) which was sustained, and showed a greater reduction in depressive symptoms (F(1,104)=6.5, p=0.013). Twenty-eight per cent of READY users disclosed, and reported a greater improvement in mental health than those who did not disclose.

Conclusions

READY provides a confidential, flexible and effective tool to enhance employee’s decision-making about disclosure. Its use led to a comparative improvement in depressive symptoms compared with the current information provided by a leading mental health non-governmental organisation, without apparent harm. READY seems worth evaluating in other settings and, if these results are replicated, scaling for wider use.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12618000229279.
Survey of husbandry and health on UK commercial dairy goat farms
Authors: Anzuino K. , Knowles T. G. , Lee M.R.F. , Grogono‐Thomas R.
Published: August 2019

Published research relevant to the UK dairy goat industry is scarce. Current practices and concerns within the UK dairy goat industry must be better understood if research is to have optimal value. A postal survey was conducted of the farmer membership of the Milking Goat Association as a first step in addressing gaps in knowledge. Questions were asked about husbandry practices, farmer observations of their goats and their priorities for further research. Seventy‐three per cent of Milking Goat Association members responded, representing 38 per cent of commercial dairy goat farms and 53 per cent of the commercial dairy goat population in England and Wales. Findings were comprehensive and showed extensive variation in farm practices. Farmers reported pneumonia and scours (diarrhoea) as the most prevalent illnesses of their kids. Pneumonia, diarrhoea, failure to conceive and poor growth were the most prevalent observations of youngstock. Overly fat body condition, assisted kidding, failure to conceive and difficulty drying off were the most prevalent observations of adult milking goats. Farmers’ top priorities for further research were kid health (79.5 per cent of farmers), Johne's disease (69.5 per cent of farmers), tuberculosis (59 per cent of farmers) and nutrition (47.7 per cent of farmers).
Long‐term outcome following management of canine humeral intracondylar fissure using a medial approach and a cannulated drill system
Authors: McCarthy Jessica , Woods Samantha , Mosley John R
Published: August 2019

This study evaluated the feasibility, complications and long‐term outcomes of using a cannulated drill system combined with intraoperative imaging to place a transcondylar screw for the management of canine humeral intracondylar fissure. Thirteen dogs were enrolled, with one dog undergoing staged bilateral surgery. No intraoperative complications occurred. Five minor (36%) and three major (21%) postoperative complications occurred, giving an overall complication rate of 57%. None of the screws placed penetrated the articular surface. The mean duration of surgery was 28 min (SD ±3.5) for dogs that developed a major complication versus 46 min (SD ±18.1) for those that did not (p=0.015). The duration of preoperative lameness was significantly shorter for cases which suffered a major complication (2 days; SD ±2.8) than those that did not (34 days; SD ±31.7, p=0.008). None of the variables assessed were significantly associated with minor complications. Median time from surgery to last follow‐up was 5.8 years (range 3.5–8.5 years). Median Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs questionnaire score at the final point of follow‐up was 16 (range 7–27). A significant number of patients were found to require analgesia at long‐term follow‐up.
Laboratory investigations into convective heat transfer in road construction materials
Authors: Rieksts Karlis , Hoff Inge , Scibilia Elena , Côté Jean
Published: August 2019

This paper presents a laboratory investigation into natural air convection and the establishment of intrinsic permeability of road and railway construction materials. The laboratory investigations were performed using a heat transfer cell with an inner volume of 1 m3. The study shows the importance of natural air convection and a practical method for establishing the intrinsic permeability of coarse granular materials. Three different open-graded crushed rock materials and two lightweight aggregates were tested. All materials were tested for downward (conduction only) and upward (convection and conduction) heat flow conditions. The experimental results revealed that all three crushed rock materials are prone to developing natural air convection in thermal gradients of 4.5 to 11 °C/m, depending on the particle size distribution. Foam glass aggregates showed a convective heat transfer flow at the fairly low temperature gradient of 6.5 °C/m. No natural air convection was achieved in expanded clay aggregates within the temperature gradients imposed. Intrinsic permeability values were established based on the experimental results. The intrinsic permeability of crushed rock materials ranged from 1.1 to 2.2 × 10−6 m2 while that of foam glass materials was 0.9 × 10−6 m2.
The effect of material type and joint thickness on wall behavior in conventional masonry walls
Authors: Zengin Basak , Toydemir Burak , Koçak Ali
Published: August 2019

Masonry walls are systems that are typically preferred in conventional structures. The complex structure of masonry walls makes it harder to determine wall behavior; however, wall behavior is affected by the types of material used in conventional walls and the way in which joints interact with masonry units. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of joint thickness and material factors on wall performance. To accomplish this, materials used in historical and conventional structures are preferred. This study involved hollow bricks, clay bricks, NHL 3.5, and CEM 32.5. Three different joint thicknesses were used to set up 12 different combinations. Damage estimation of the wall was carried out by moving a live load under a constant vertical load. Different materials of different joint thicknesses and mechanical properties were studied for their effects on the wall. The results indicated that a joint thickness of 20 mm preferred in wall production was more convenient. The strength of walls produced from durable material was found to be higher.
IDENTIFYING OPTIMAL VACCINATION STRATEGIES VIA ECONOMIC AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL MODELING
Authors: ZHAO HENRY , FENG ZHILAN
Published: August 2019

Vaccination is among the most effective means of preventing and controlling infectious disease outbreaks. Mathematical models can be used to identify the optimal allocation of vaccine among various groups when host populations are heterogeneous. Population heterogeneity may affect individual decision-making and government policy. We show that mixing among sub-populations can profoundly influence the optimal vaccination allocation. Centralized and decentralized programs are examined, accounting for individual behavior and economic constraints. We also compare approaches to modeling transitions between epidemiological classes by epidemiological and economic modelers, and identify key differences.
COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF SELF-ORGANIZATION OF BACTERIAL POPULATION CONSISTING OF SUBPOPULATIONS OF ACTIVE AND PASSIVE CELLS
Authors: LEDAS ŽILVINAS , ŠIMKUS REMIGIJUS , BARONAS ROMAS
Published: August 2019

This paper deals with the computational modeling of the bioluminescence pattern formation in suspensions of Escherichia coli bacteria. The aim was to develop a computational model for simulating the bacterial populations consisting of two subpopulations of active and passive cells. A suitable model based on Keller–Segel and Fisher equations was proposed and the spatiotemporal patterns were simulated using the finite difference technique. The influence of cell activation, deactivation, chemotactic sensitivity, growth rate and saturating signal production parameter values on the pattern formation was investigated. The proposed model can be used to effectively simulate quasi-one-dimensional spatiotemporal patterns. We provide a simple qualitative explanation of the experimental results and estimated model parameters. In particular, it is argued that the effective model simulates patterns of evaporation-driven convection in open-to-air suspensions of cells that can be either active or passive.
Not Just Going with the Flow: The Effects of Fluid Flow on Bacteria and Plankton
Authors: Wheeler Jeanette D. , Secchi Eleonora , Rusconi Roberto , Stocker Roman
Published: August 2019

Microorganisms often live in habitats characterized by fluid flow, from lakes and oceans to soil and the human body. Bacteria and plankton experience a broad range of flows, from the chaotic motion characteristic of turbulence to smooth flows at boundaries and in confined environments. Flow creates forces and torques that affect the movement, behavior, and spatial distribution of microorganisms and shapes the chemical landscape on which they rely for nutrient acquisition and communication. Methodological advances and closer interactions between physicists and biologists have begun to reveal the importance of flow–microorganism interactions and the adaptations of microorganisms to flow. Here we review selected examples of such interactions from bacteria, phytoplankton, larvae, and zooplankton. We hope that this article will serve as a blueprint for a more in-depth consideration of the effects of flow in the biology of microorganisms and that this discussion will stimulate further multidisciplinary effort in understanding this important component of microorganism habitats.
Multiple cellular pathways regulate lipid droplet homeostasis for the establishment of polarity in collagen sandwich-cultured hepatocytes
Authors: Kang Sun Woo Sophie , Cogger Victoria C. , Le Couteur David G. , Fu Dong
Published: August 2019

Hepatocyte polarization is energy dependent. The establishment of polarization in collagen sandwich culture of hepatocytes requires utilization of lipid droplets and mitochondrial β-oxidation to supply ATP. Multiple cellular pathways are involved in lipid droplet homeostasis; however, mechanistic insights of how hepatocytes utilize lipid droplets during polarization remain elusive. The current study investigated the effects of various pathways involved in lipid droplet homeostasis on bioenergetics during hepatocyte polarization. The results showed that hepatocytes were dependent on lipolysis of lipid droplets to release fatty acids for β-oxidation. Inhibition of lipolysis significantly decreased cellular fatty acid and ATP levels and inhibited hepatocyte polarization, revealing that lipolysis was an important mechanism for providing energy for hepatocyte polarization. The results also demonstrated that autophagic degradation of lipid droplets (lipophagy) was not essential for breaking down lipid droplets. Conversely, autophagy contributed to lipid droplet formation and played a key role in sustaining lipid droplet stores for energy production. In addition, cholesterol biosynthesis/cholesterol esterification and de novo fatty acid synthesis also contributed to maintaining lipid droplet stores for bioenergetics during hepatocyte polarization. In summary, multiple cellular pathways are coordinated to maintain lipid droplet homeostasis and sustain fatty acid β-oxidation during hepatocyte polarization.
Moderately elevated extracellular [K+] potentiates submaximal force and power in skeletal muscle via increased [Ca2+]i during contractions
Authors: Pedersen Katja K. , Cheng Arthur J. , Westerblad Håkan , Olesen Jonas H. , Overgaard Kristian
Published: August 2019

The extracellular K+ concentration ([K+]o) increases during physical exercise. We here studied whether moderately elevated [K+]o may increase force and power output during contractions at in vivo-like subtetanic frequencies and whether such potentiation was associated with increased cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) during contractions. Isolated whole soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) rat muscles were incubated at different levels of [K+]o, and isometric and dynamic contractility were tested at various stimulation frequencies. Furthermore, [Ca2+]i at rest and during contraction was measured along with isometric force in single mouse flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) fibers exposed to elevated [K+]o. Elevating [K+]o from 4 mM up to 8 mM (soleus) and 11 mM (EDL) increased isometric force at subtetanic frequencies, 2–15 Hz in soleus and up to 50 Hz in EDL, while inhibition was seen at tetanic frequency in both muscle types. Elevating [K+]o also increased peak power of dynamic subtetanic contractions, with potentiation being more pronounced in EDL than in soleus muscles. The force-potentiating effect of elevated [K+]o was transient in FDB single fibers, reaching peak after ~4 and 2.5 min in 9 and 11 mM [K+]o, respectively. At the time of peak potentiation, force and [Ca2+]i during 15-Hz contractions were significantly increased, whereas force was slightly decreased and [Ca2+]i unchanged during 50-Hz contractions. Moderate elevation of [K+]o can transiently potentiate force and power during contractions at subtetanic frequencies, which can be explained by a higher [Ca2+]i during contractions.