bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compressed-sensing accelerated 4D flow MRI of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics
Authors: Jaeger Elena , Sonnabend Kristina , Schaarschmidt Frank , Maintz David , Weiss Kilian , Bunck Alexander C.
Published: July 2020

Background

4D flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of CSF can make an important contribution to the understanding of hydrodynamic changes in various neurological diseases but remains limited in clinical application due to long acquisition times. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of compressed SENSE accelerated MRI measurements of the spinal CSF flow.

Methods

In 20 healthy subjects 4D flow MRI of the CSF in the cervical spine was acquired using compressed sensitivity encoding [CSE, a combination of compressed sensing and parallel imaging (SENSE) provided by the manufacturer] with acceleration factors between 4 and 10. A conventional scan using SENSE was used as reference. Extracted parameters were peak velocity, absolute net flow, forward flow and backward flow. Bland–Altman analysis was performed to determine the scan-rescan reproducibility and the agreement between SENSE and compressed SENSE. Additionally, a time accumulated flow error was calculated. In one additional subject flow of the spinal canal at the level of the entire spinal cord was assessed.

Results

Averaged acquisition times were 10:21 min (SENSE), 9:31 min (CSE4), 6:25 min (CSE6), 4:53 min (CSE8) and 3:51 min (CSE10). Acquisition of the CSF flow surrounding the entire spinal cord took 14:40 min. Bland–Altman analysis showed good agreement for peak velocity, but slight overestimations for absolute net flow, forward flow and backward flow (< 1 ml/min) in CSE4–8. Results of the accumulated flow error were similar for CSE4 to CSE8.

Conclusion

A quantitative analysis of acceleration factors CSE4–10 showed that CSE with an acceleration factor up to 6 is feasible. This allows a scan time reduction of 40% and enables the acquisition and analysis of the CSF flow dynamics surrounding the entire spinal cord within a clinically acceptable scan time.
FRET-based Tau seeding assay does not represent prion-like templated assembly of Tau filaments
Authors: Kaniyappan Senthilvelrajan , Tepper Katharina , Biernat Jacek , Chandupatla Ram Reddy , Hübschmann Sabrina , Irsen Stephan , Bicher Sandra , Klatt Christoph , Mandelkow Eva-Maria , Mandelkow Eckhard
Published: July 2020

Tau aggregation into amyloid fibers based on the cross-beta structure is a hallmark of several Tauopathies, including Alzheimer Disease (AD). Trans-cellular propagation of Tau with pathological conformation has been suggested as a key disease mechanism. This is thought to cause the spreading of Tau pathology in AD by templated conversion of naive Tau in recipient cells into a pathological state, followed by assembly of pathological Tau fibers, similar to the mechanism of nucleated polymerization proposed for prion pathogenesis. In cell cultures, the process is often monitored by a FRET assay where the recipient cell expresses the Tau repeat domain (TauRD) with a pro-aggregant mutation, fused to GFP-based FRET pairs. Since the size of the reporter GFP (barrel of ~ 3 nm × 4 nm) is ~ 7 times larger than the β-strand distance (0.47 nm), this points to a potential steric clash. Hence, we investigated the influence of the GFP tag on TauFL or TauRD aggregation. Using biophysical methods (light scattering, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning-transmission electron microscopy (STEM)), we found that the assembly of TauRD-GFP was severely inhibited and incompatible with that of Alzheimer filaments. These observations argue against the hypothesis that the propagation of Tau pathology in AD is caused by the prion-like templated aggregation of Tau protein, transmitted via cell-to-cell spreading of Tau. Thus, even though the observed local increase of FRET in recipient cells may be a valid hallmark of a pathological reaction, our data argue that it is caused by a process distinct from assembly of TauRD filaments.
Long non-coding RNA CASC9 promotes tumor growth and metastasis via modulating FZD6/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in bladder cancer
Authors: Zhan Yonghao , Zhang Lianghao , Yu Shuanbao , Wen Jianguo , Liu Yuchen , Zhang Xuepei
Published: July 2020

Background

Accumulating evidence have highlighted the importance of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in multiple cancers development and progression. Cancer susceptibility candidate 9 (CASC9) is a novel long non-coding RNA and plays important regulatory role in diverse biological processes of cancers. However, the clinical significance and molecular mechanism of CASC9 in bladder cancer is still unknown.

Methods

Comprehensive lncRNAs profiling analysis were conducted to identify lncRNAs profile alterations and uncover valuable lncRNA candidates for bladder cancer. The expression level of CASC9 was determined in a total of 106 patients with bladder cancer. Loss-of-function experiments were performed to identify the functions of CASC9 in tumor growth and metastasis of bladder cancer in vitro and in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis and further experiments were performed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of CASC9.

Results

This study found that CASC9 expression was markedly upregulated in bladder cancer and related to histological grade, TNM stage and prognosis. Knockdown of CASC9 inhibited tumor growth and metastasis of bladder cancer in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that CASC9 functions as a miRNA sponge to positively regulate FZD6 expression and subsequently activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thus playing an oncogenic role in bladder cancer pathogenesis.

Conclusion

In summary, lncRNA CASC9 plays a critical regulatory role in bladder cancer. The CASC9/miR-497-5p/ FZD6 axis provides insights for regulatory mechanism of bladder cancer, and new strategies for clinical practice.
Safety and efficacy of belimumab after B cell depletion therapy in systemic LUPUS erythematosus (BEAT-LUPUS) trial: statistical analysis plan
Authors: Muller Patrick , Chowdhury Kashfia , Gordon Caroline , Ehrenstein Michael R. , Doré Caroline J.
Published: July 2020

Background

There is limited evidence that rituximab, a B cell depletion therapy, is an effective treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Data on the mechanisms of B cell depletion in SLE indicate that the combination of rituximab and belimumab may be more effective than rituximab alone. The safety and efficacy of belimumab after B cell depletion therapy in systemic LUPUS erythematosus (BEAT-LUPUS) trial aims to determine whether belimumab is superior to placebo, when given 4–8 weeks after treatment with rituximab. This article describes the statistical analysis plan for this trial as an update to the published protocol. It is written prior to the end of patient follow-up, while the outcome of the trial is still unknown.

Design and methods

BEAT-LUPUS is a randomised, double-blind, phase II trial of 52 weeks of belimumab versus placebo, initiated 4–8 weeks after rituximab treatment. The primary outcome is anti-dsDNA antibodies at 52 weeks post randomisation. Secondary outcomes include lupus flares and damage, adverse events, doses of concomitant medications, quality of life, and clinical biomarkers. We describe the trial’s clinical context, outcome measures, sample size calculation, and statistical modelling strategy, and the supportive analyses planned to evaluate for mediation of the treatment effect through changes in concomitant medication doses and bias from missing data.

Discussion

The analysis will provide detailed information on the safety and effectiveness of belimumab. It will be implemented from July 2020 when patient follow-up and data collection is complete.

Trial registration

ISRCTN:47873003. Registered on 28 November 2016.

EudracT:2015-005543-14. Registered on 19 November 2018.
eTest: a limited-interaction, longitudinal randomized controlled trial of a mobile health platform that enables real-time phone counseling after HIV self-testing among high-risk men who have sex with men
Authors: Wray Tyler B. , Chan Philip A. , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Mena Leandro A. , Brock James B. , Simpanen Erik M. , Ward Lori M. , Chrysovalantis Stafylis
Published: July 2020

Background

HIV disproportionately affects men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA, and new infections continue to increase, particularly among African American (AA) and Hispanic/Latino (H/L) MSM. Rates of HIV testing are particularly low among AA and H/L MSM, and innovative approaches to encourage testing may help address high incidence in these men. HIV self-testing (HST) may be an important tool for increasing rates and frequency of testing. HST may be particularly well-suited for AA and H/L MSM, given that stigma and mistrust of medical care contribute to low testing rates. Despite its promise, however, many are concerned that HST does not sufficiently connect users with critical post-testing resources, such as confirmatory testing and care among those who test positive, and that these limitations may result in delayed linkage to care.

Methods

We developed a mobile health platform (eTest) that monitors when HST users open their tests in real time, allowing us to provide timely, “active” follow-up counseling and referral over the phone. In this study, 900 high-risk MSM (with targets of 40% AA, 35% H/L) who have not tested in the last year will be recruited from social media and other gay-oriented websites in several major cities. Over 12 months, participants will be randomly assigned to receive (1) HST with post-test phone counseling and referral (eTest condition), (2) HST without active follow-up (standard condition), or (3) reminders to get tested for HIV at a local clinic (control) every 3 months. Primary outcomes include rates of HIV testing, receipt of additional HIV prevention services, and PrEP initiation verified by clinical medical records.

Discussion

This study tests whether providing more active counseling and referral after HST encourages more regular HIV testing and engagement with other prevention services among MSM, compared to more passive approaches or clinic-based testing alone. It will also explore the cost-effectiveness and emotional/behavioral effects of these two strategies.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03654690. Registered on 31 August 2018.
Predictors of poor adherence to antidiabetic therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study insight from Ethiopia
Authors: Demoz Gebre Teklemariam , Wahdey Shishay , Bahrey Degena , Kahsay Halefom , Woldu Gebremariam , Niriayo Yirga Legesse , Collier Andrew
Published: July 2020

Background

Poor adherence to the medical regimen is a major clinical problem in the management of patients with diabetes. This study sought to investigate the level of medication adherence to antidiabetic therapy and to identify possible predictors of poor adherence.

Methods

A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2018 to June 2019 among randomly selected follow-up T2D patients at a hospital diabetes clinic. Data were collected through patient interviews, followed by medical chart review. Adherence to antidiabetic therapy that we assessed patients’ responses using validated Brief Medication Questionnaire (BMQ). To identify predictors of poor medication adherence, binary logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 25. Statistical significance was set at p value ≤ 0.05.

Results

Of the total 357 study participants, 25% were non-adherent to their antidiabetic therapy. Predictors statistically associated with poor adherence were; being female gender (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.01–2.76), and presence of at least one diabetic complication (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.02–3.22). Participants with having at least primary level of education were more likely to adhere to anti-diabetes medication (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.18–0.96). The most common self-reported reasons for non-adherence were forgetfulness, unavailability of medication plus the unaffordability of anti-diabetes medications.

Conclusions

The proportion of participants’ adherent to anti-diabetes therapies was suboptimal. Being female, the presence of chronic diabetic complications and having no formal education were the main predictors of poor adherence. Strategies that aimed at improving adherence to antidiabetic medications deemed to be compulsory.
Coronavirus infection (SARS-CoV-2) in obesity and diabetes comorbidities: is heat shock response determinant for the disease complications?
Authors: Krause Mauricio , Gerchman Fernando , Friedman Rogério
Published: July 2020

Chronic inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of several metabolic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). With the recent worldwide outbreak of coronavirus disease (SARS-CoV-2), it has been observed that individuals with these metabolic diseases are more likely to develop complications, increasing the severity of the disease and a poorer outcome. Coronavirus infection leads to the activation of adaptive and innate immune responses, resulting in massive inflammation (to so called cytokine storm), which in turn can lead to damage to various tissues, septic shock and multiple organ failure. Recent evidence suggests that the common link between metabolic diseases and SARS-CoV-2 is the inflammatory response (chronic/low-grade for metabolic diseases and acute/intense in coronavirus infection). However, the ability of the infected individuals to resolve the inflammation has not yet been explored. The heat shock response (HSR), an important anti-inflammatory pathway, is reduced in patients with metabolic diseases and, consequently, may impair inflammation resolution and control in patients with SARS-CoV-2, thus enabling its amplification and propagation through all tissues. Herein, we present a new hypothesis that aims to explain the increased severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in people with metabolic diseases, and the possible benefits of HSR-inducing therapies to improve the inflammatory profile in these patients.
Cardiovascular risk factors indirectly affect acute post-stroke cognition through stroke severity and prior cognitive impairment: a moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Drozdowska Bogna A. , Elliott Emma , Taylor-Rowan Martin , Shaw Robert C. , Cuthbertson Gillian , Langhorne Peter , Quinn Terence J.
Published: July 2020

Background

Cognitive impairment is an important consequence of stroke and transient ischaemic attack, but its determinants are not fully understood. Simple univariable or multivariable models have not shown clinical utility for predicting cognitive impairment. Cardiovascular risk factors may influence cognition through multiple, direct, and indirect pathways, including effects on prior cognition and stroke severity. Understanding these complex relationships may help clinical teams plan intervention and follow-up strategies.

Methods

We analysed clinical and demographic data from consecutive patients admitted to an acute stroke ward. Cognitive assessment comprised Abbreviated Mental Test and mini-Montreal Cognitive Assessment. We constructed bias-corrected confidence intervals to test indirect effects of cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, vascular disease, atrial fibrillation, diabetes mellitus, previous stroke) on cognitive function, mediated through stroke severity and history of dementia, and we assessed moderation effects due to comorbidity.

Results

From 594 eligible patients, we included 587 in the final analysis (age range 26–100; 45% female). Our model explainedR2 = 62.10% of variance in cognitive test scores. We found evidence for an indirect effect of previous stroke that was associated with increased risk of prevalent dementia and in turn predicted poorer cognitive score (estimate = − 0.39; 95% bias-corrected CI, − 0.75 to − 0.13;p = 0.02). Atrial fibrillation was associated with greater stroke severity and in turn with a poorer cognitive score (estimate = − 0.27; 95% bias-corrected CI, − 0.49 to − 0.05;p = 0.02). Conversely, previous TIA predicted decreased stroke severity and, through that, lesser cognitive impairment (estimate = 0.38; 95% bias-corrected CI, 0.08 to 0.75;p = 0.02). Through an association with reduced stroke severity, vascular disease was associated with lesser cognitive impairment, conditional on presence of hypertension and absence of diabetes mellitus (estimate = 0.36; 95% bias-corrected CI, 0.03 to 0.68;p = 0.02), although the modelled interaction effects did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

We have shown that relationships between cardiovascular risk factors and cognition are complex and simple multivariable models may be overly reductionist. Including direct and indirect effects of risk factors, we constructed a model that explained a substantial proportion of variation in cognitive test scores. Models that include multiple paths of influence and interactions could be used to create dementia prognostic tools for use in other healthcare settings.
Correction to: SHP2 mutations induce precocious gliogenesis of Noonan syndrome-derived iPSCs during neural development in vitro
Authors: Ju Younghee , Park Jun Sung , Kim Daejeong , Kim Bumsoo , Lee Jeong Ho , Nam Yoonkey , Yoo Han-Wook , Lee Beom Hee , Han Yong-Mahn
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
EtMIC3 and its receptors BAG1 and ENDOUL are essential for site-specific invasion of Eimeria tenella in chickens
Authors: Li Wenyu , Wang Mingyue , Chen Yufeng , Chen Chen , Liu Xiaoqian , Sun Xiaoting , Jing Chuanxu , Xu Lixin , Yan Ruofeng , Li Xiangrui , Song Xiaokai
Published: July 2020

Avian coccidian parasites exhibit a high degree of site specificity in different Eimeria species. Although the underlying mechanism is unclear, an increasing body of evidence suggests that site specificity is due to the interaction between microneme proteins (MICs) and their receptors on the surface of target host cells. In this study, the binding ability of E. tenella MICs (EtMICs) to different intestinal tissue was observed by immunofluorescence to identify the key surface molecule on the parasite responsible for the site specificity. Subsequently, we identified the corresponding host-cell receptors by yeast two-hybrid screening and glutathione-S-transferase pull-down experiments and the distribution of these receptors was observed by immunofluorescence in chicken intestinal tissues. Finally, we evaluated the efficacy of receptor antiserum against the infection of E. tenella in chickens. The results showed that EtMIC3 could only bind to the caecum while EtMIC1, EtMIC2, and EtAMA1 did not bind to any other intestinal tissues. Anti-serum to EtMIC3 was able to block the invasion of sporozoites with a blocking rate of 66.3%. The receptors for EtMIC3 were BCL2-associated athanogene 1 (BAG1) and Endonuclease polyU-specific-like (ENDOUL), which were mainly distributed in the caecum. BAG1 and ENDOUL receptor antiserum reduced weight loss and oocyst output following E. tenella infection, showing partial inhibition of E. tenella infection. These data elucidate the mechanism of site specificity for Eimeria infection and reveal a potential therapeutic avenue.
Intercellular transmission of Seneca Valley virus mediated by exosomes
Authors: Xu Guowei , Xu Shouxing , Shi Xijuan , Shen Chaochao , Hao Junhong , Yan Minhao , Zhang Dajun , Zhu Zixiang , Zhang Keshan , Zheng Haixue , Liu Xiangtao
Published: July 2020

Seneca Valley virus (SVV) is a non-encapsulated single-stranded positive-strand RNA virus whose transmission routes have not yet been fully elucidated. Exosomes have been implicated in the intercellular transport of a variety of materials, such as proteins, RNA, and liposomes. However, whether exosomes can mediate SVV intercellular transmission remains unknown. In this study, we extracted exosomes from SVV-infected IBRS-2 cells to investigate intercellular transmission. Our results suggest that the intercellular transmission of SVV is mediated by exosomes. The results of co-localization and RT-qPCR studies showed that exosomes harbor SVV and enable the virus to proliferate in both susceptible and non-susceptible cells. Furthermore, the replication of SVV was inhibited when IBRS-2 cells were treated with interfering RNA Rab27a and exosome inhibitor GW4869. Finally, neutralization experiments were performed to further verify whether the virus was encapsulated by the exosomes that mediated transmission between cells. It was found that exosome-mediated intercellular transmission was not blocked by SVV-specific neutralizing antibodies. This study reveals a new transmission route of SVV and provides clear evidence regarding the pathogenesis of SVV, information which can also be useful for identifying therapeutic interventions.
A novel FPGA-based test-bench framework for SDI stream verification
Authors: Conti Giuseppe , Kyrkou Christos , Theocharides Theocharis , Hernández-Peñaloza Gustavo , Jiménez David
Published: July 2020

This paper presents a framework for complete simulation and verification of Serial Digital Interface (SDI) video using a verilog test-bench and geared toward FPGAs. This framework permits simulating the entire process: from test video signal generation to protocol verification in the FPGA which implements the Device Under Test (DUT). The novelty in the design is the combination of a customized test video signal generator with an implementation clone of DUT transceiver for in-depth protocol debugging. Identical input test patterns of the video protocol under test are generated and fed to DUT for verification. Thus, the model not only permits to evaluate the SDI transport layer but also validates the implementation at ultra low pixel level of the video format. This approach provides two advantages: cost saving in terms of additional lab test equipment and delivering all-in-one test solution to verify design and implementation. A practical implementation using a test example of a macroblock processing chain using SDI video interface shows the viability of the proposed framework for video protocol testing.
Certain results on a hybrid class of the Boas–Buck polynomials
Authors: Yasmin Ghazala , Islahi Hibah , Muhyi Abdulghani
Published: July 2020

This article aims to introduce a hybrid family of 2-variable Boas–Buck-general polynomials by taking Boas–Buck polynomials as a base with the 2-variable general polynomials. These polynomials are framed within the context of the monomiality principle, and their properties are established. Further, we investigate some members belonging to this family. A general method to express connection coefficients explicitly for the Boas–Buck general polynomial sets is presented. Carlitz theorem for mixed generating functions is also extended to these polynomials. The shapes are shown and zeros are computed for these polynomials using Mathematica software.
On a coupled system of fractional sum-difference equations with p-Laplacian operator
Authors: Siricharuanun Pimchana , Chasreechai Saowaluck , Sitthiwirattham Thanin
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we propose a nonlocal fractional sum-difference boundary value problem for a coupled system of fractional sum-difference equations with p-Laplacian operator. The problem contains both Riemann–Liouville and Caputo fractional difference with five fractional differences and four fractional sums. The existence and uniqueness result of the problem is studied by using the Banach fixed point theorem.
Basic reproduction number and predicted trends of coronavirus disease 2019 epidemic in the mainland of China
Authors: Li Yong , Wang Lian-Wen , Peng Zhi-Hang , Shen Hong-Bing
Published: July 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a serious epidemic around the world, but it has been effectively controlled in the mainland of China. The Chinese government limited the migration of people almost from all walks of life. Medical workers have rushed into Hubei province to fight against the epidemic. Any activity that can increase infection is prohibited. The aim of this study was to confirm that timely lockdown, large-scale case-screening and other control measures proposed by the Chinese government were effective to contain the spread of the virus in the mainland of China.

Methods

Based on disease transmission-related parameters, this study was designed to predict the trend of COVID-19 epidemic in the mainland of China and provide theoretical basis for current prevention and control. An SEIQR epidemiological model incorporating asymptomatic transmission, short term immunity and imperfect isolation was constructed to evaluate the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 inside and outside of Hubei province. With COVID-19 cases confirmed by the National Health Commission (NHC), the optimal parameters of the model were set by calculating the minimum Chi-square value.

Results

Before the migration to and from Wuhan was cut off, the basic reproduction number in China was 5.6015. From 23 January to 26 January 2020, the basic reproduction number in China was 6.6037. From 27 January to 11 February 2020, the basic reproduction number outside Hubei province dropped below 1, but that in Hubei province remained 3.7732. Because of stricter controlling measures, especially after the initiation of the large-scale case-screening, the epidemic rampancy in Hubei has also been contained. The average basic reproduction number in Hubei province was 3.4094 as of 25 February 2020. We estimated the cumulative number of confirmed cases nationwide was 82 186, and 69 230 in Hubei province on 9 April 2020.

Conclusions

The lockdown of Hubei province significantly reduced the basic reproduction number. The large-scale case-screening also showed the effectiveness in the epidemic control. This study provided experiences that could be replicated in other countries suffering from the epidemic. Although the epidemic is subsiding in China, the controlling efforts should not be terminated before May.
C9orf72-associated SMCR8 protein binds in the ubiquitin pathway and with proteins linked with neurological disease
Authors: Goodier John L. , Soares Alisha O. , Pereira Gavin C. , DeVine Lauren R. , Sanchez Laura , Cole Robert N. , García-Pérez Jose Luis
Published: July 2020

A pathogenic GGGCCC hexanucleotide expansion in the first intron/promoter region of theC9orf72gene is the most common mutation associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The C9orf72 gene product forms a complex with SMCR8 (Smith-Magenis Syndrome Chromosome Region, Candidate 8) and WDR41 (WD Repeat domain 41) proteins. Recent studies have indicated roles for the complex in autophagy regulation, vesicle trafficking, and immune response in transgenic mice, however a direct connection with ALS etiology remains unclear. With the aim of increasing understanding of the multi-functional C9orf72-SMCR8-WDR41 complex, we determined by mass spectrometry analysis the proteins that directly associate with SMCR8. SMCR8 protein binds many components of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, and we demonstrate its poly-ubiquitination without obvious degradation. Evidence is also presented for localization of endogenous SMCR8 protein to cytoplasmic stress granules. However, in several cell lines we failed to reproduce previous observations that C9orf72 protein enters these granules. SMCR8 protein associates with many products of genes associated with various Mendelian neurological disorders in addition to ALS, implicating SMCR8-containing complexes in a range of neuropathologies. We reinforce previous observations that SMCR8 and C9orf72 protein levels are positively linked, and now show in vivo that SMCR8 protein levels are greatly reduced in brain tissues of C9orf72 gene expansion carrier individuals. While further study is required, these data suggest that SMCR8 protein level might prove a useful biomarker for theC9orf72expansion in ALS.
Surrounding landscape influences the abundance of insect predators in rice field
Authors: Ali M. P. , Kabir M. M. M. , Haque S. S. , Afrin S. , Ahmed N. , Pittendrigh Barry , Qin Xinghu
Published: July 2020

Background

Natural enemy abundance in a crop plot depends on its prey presence and also influenced by habitats close to field. Landscape changes are also important factors driving pest and natural enemy population abundance in a specific crop field. Examining these kinds of effects on insect pests or biocontrol agents, as well as analysis of their functional food webs, would be asset to make a fruitful pest management programme at local scales. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of surrounding landscape on the abundance insect predators in rice field.

Results

This study revealed a dependency on rice bund margin width, with spider populations increasing with increased bund widths. Conversely, population abundance did not rely on the number of weed species observed on earthen ridge around the rice field. In general, relative abundances of predator populations differed significantly across the three landscapes tested. Among the four predators of rice insect pest, the green mirid bug showed highest number irrespective of landscape. Comparatively, higher predator diversity (Shanon diversity) was observed in landscape I followed by landscape III and landscape II. All landscapes showed different diversity indices indicating heterozygosity existed in each study site. These landscape diversity influences the predator’s abundances at a local scale. Variogram derived from this study also indicated the landscape heterozygosity existed in studied locations which can also explain the predator’s abundances in rice field at locale scale.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that predators of rice insect pests are landscape specific. Therefore, characterization of each local landscape in Bangladesh rice production landscapes are necessary before planning and implementation of integrated pest management. Geospatial analysis of local landscape would be more effective to analyze such unique characteristics. As a step in this direction, preliminary variography analyses using the RED spectral band of December 2016 LANDSAT 8 imagery propose an initial learning suite of methods for describing useful local characteristics affecting rice pest predators.
Practical and cost-effective model to build and sustain a cardio-oncology program
Authors: Sadler Diego , Chaulagain Chakra , Alvarado Beatrice , Cubeddu Robert , Stone Elizabeth , Samuel Thomas , Bastos Bruno , Grossman David , Fu Chieh-Lin , Alley Evan , Nagarajan Arun , Nguyen Timmy , Ahmed Wesam , Elson Leah , Nahleh Zeina
Published: July 2020

Background

Cardio-Oncology (CO) is a new subspecialty that thrives mostly in large academic quaternary centers. This study describes how to establish a successful cardio-oncology program, with limited resources, in order to effectively manage the unique care required by this patient population.

Methods

Clinical data was collected from 25 consecutive months. There were four foundational elements to establish a CO program: 1. Clinical program: integrating staff and resources from the Heart and Vascular, and Cancer Centers; 2. Education Program: establishing a platform to educate/advocate with respect to CO; 3. Engagement with professional societies: active engagement allowed for the successful establishment of the proposed CO program; and 4. Research program: establishing data collection modalities/cooperation with other institutions.

Results

474 consecutive patients were treated by our CO program during the first 25 months of operation. Clinical data, information about cancer treatment, cardiovascular co morbidities, cardiac testing and impact of CO management are reported.

Conclusions

A successful CO program can be established utilizing existing resources without the need for significant additional assets. Integration with professional societies, advocacy, education and research, provide a platform for learning and growth. This model improves access to care and can be reproduced in a variety of settings.
Data to the rescue: how humanitarian aid NGOs should collect information based on the GDPR
Authors: Gazi Theodora
Published: July 2020

Data collection is valuable before, during and after interventions in order to increase the effectiveness of humanitarian projects. Although the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) sets forth rules for the processing of personal data, its implementation by humanitarian aid actors is crucial and presents challenges. Failure to comply triggers severe risks for both data subjects and the reputation of the actor. This article provides insights into the implementation of the guiding principles of the GDPR, the legal bases for data processing, data subjects’ rights and data sharing during the provision of humanitarian assistance.
Psychometric properties of a custom Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical function short form and worst stiffness numeric rating scale in tenosynovial giant cell tumors
Authors: Speck Rebecca M. , Ye Xin , Bernthal Nicholas M. , Gelhorn Heather L.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PROMIS-Physical Function (PF) and Worst Stiffness Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) among patients with tenosynovial giant cell tumors (TGCT).

Methods

Measurement properties of the customized lower extremity (LE) and upper extremity (UE) PROMIS-PF scales and Worst Stiffness NRS were assessed using data from the Phase 3 ENLIVEN trial (n = 120). Anchor- and distribution-based analyses were utilized to derive a responder threshold for meaningful change over time. The Patient Global Rating of Concept (PGRC)-Physical Functioning and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC)-Stiffness served as anchors. Responsiveness and responder threshold analyses were from baseline to week 25.

Results

Cronbach’s alpha values for internal consistency reliability were 0.93 and 0.91 for the PROMIS-PF LE and UE, respectively. Test-retest reliability intra-class correlation coefficients were > 0.75 for both instruments. Convergent validity for both instruments was supported by moderate to strong correlations (≥0.30) with the Brief Pain Inventory and EQ-5D. Known-groups validity was established between subgroups stratified by pain level (p < 0.05). Responsiveness was supported by evaluating change scores among different levels of change in PGRC-Physical Functioning and PGIC-Stiffness (overall F values < 0.001). Triangulation of responder definition analyses resulted in a threshold of ≥3 for the PROMIS-PF and ≥ 1 for the Worst Stiffness NRS.

Conclusion

This study is the first to establish the psychometric properties of patient-reported outcome measures in TGCT. The evidence demonstrates that the PROMIS-PF and Worst Stiffness NRS have good reliability, validity, and responsiveness, and provides guidance for the interpretation of meaningful change.
Patient-reported quality-of-life outcomes in relation to provider-assessed adverse events during head and neck radiotherapy
Authors: Niska Joshua R. , Thorpe Cameron S. , Halyard Michele Y. , Tan Angelina D. , Atherton Pamela J. , Dueck Amylou C. , Patel Samir H. , Sloan Jeff A.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To assess the relationship between patient-reported quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes and provider-assessed adverse events (AEs) during head-and-neck (H&N) radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

Sixty-five patients undergoing H&N RT prospectively completed 12-domain linear analogue self-assessments (LASA) at baseline, before biweekly appointments, and at last week of RT. At the same time points, provider-assessed AEs were graded using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0. LASA scores were stratified by maximum-grade AE and analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis methodology. Agreement between LASA scores and maximum-grade AE was assessed using Bland-Altman analysis.

Results

Patient-reported QOL outcomes showed clinically meaningful decreases in most domains, predominantly fatigue (77.8% of patients), social activity (75.4%), and overall QOL (74.2%). Provider-assessed AEs showed 100% grade 2 AE, 35.4% grade 3 AE, and 3.1% grade 4 AE. At baseline, patients with higher grade AEs reported worse physical well-being (WB) (P = .04). At week 1, the following QOL domains were worse for patients with higher grade AEs: overall QOL (P = .03), mental WB (P = .02), and physical WB (P = .03). Bland-Altman analysis showed that QOL scores were relatively worse than AE burden at baseline and relatively better at RT completion.

Conclusions

Worse QOL was associated with higher-grade AEs at baseline and early in RT. The impact of AEs on QOL appears to lessen with time. Patient-reported QOL outcomes and provider-assessed AEs provide complementary information.
An adult woman with transient headache, neurological deficits, and lymphocytic pleocytosis (HaNDL syndrome) with intracerebral melanosis: case report
Authors: Ghonimi Nesma A. M. , AbdAlla Mai A. , Fahmi Rasha M.
Published: July 2020

Headache with a neurological deficit and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lymphocytosis (HaNDL) is usually under-recognized and under-reported. HaNDL is a self-limiting condition, but the grave symptoms require a large-scale differential diagnosis. We report a case of a 24-year-old female who developed dysarthria for several hours and decreased use of the right arm with right-sided facial weakness. After extensive investigation of blood, CSF, and neuroimaging, we excluded central nervous system infections and autoimmune and vascular diseases. A diagnosis of HaNDL was made according to clinical symptoms and CSF analysis. The prognosis was good, and the symptoms resolved. Repeated physical examination after 48 h was unremarkable. HaNDL is probably not as rare as commonly thought; awareness of its existence can avoid unnecessary and potentially harmful investigations and therapies. The clinical challenge relies on the fact that it remains a diagnosis of exclusion.
Comparative evaluation of insecticidal properties of essential oils of some selected botanicals as bio-pesticides against Cowpea bruchid, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius) [Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae]
Authors: Idoko Joy Ejemen , Ileke Kayode David
Published: July 2020

Background

The insecticidal activities of essential oils from seeds of five botanicals Tetrapleura tetraptera, Annona muricata, and Aframomum melegueta and leaves of Eucalyptus globulus and Ficus exasperata were evaluated as biopesticides against the storage pest of cowpea Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius). The oils were applied at the concentration of 1 ml/kg, 3 ml/kg, and 5 ml/kg of cowpea seeds mixed evenly. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design. The parameters assessed include the percentage of mortality, oviposition, adult emergence, seeds damaged, weight loss, and germinability capacity of the protected seeds.

Results

The results from the study showed that the effectiveness of the essential oils was dependent on application rates and time of exposure. In the treated cowpea seeds, A. melegueta essential oil was the most effective with 50% lethal concentration (LC50) value of 2.42 ml/kg and 95% lethal concentration (LC95) value of 4.86 ml/kg when compared to the other treatments as indicated by the application rate which caused 50% and 95% mortality of cowpea beetles. A. melegueta essential oil at the concentration of 5 ml/kg achieved 100% mortality of C. maculatus at 48 h of application. Cowpea seeds treated with 5 ml/kg of E. globulus essential oil significantly reduced (P < 0.05) oviposition compared to the other treatments. Cowpea seeds treated with 5 ml/kg of A. muricata essential oil reduced adult emergence (3.67) and weight loss (0.59). The cowpea seeds treated with essential oils at different concentrations had no significant (P > 0.05) adverse effect on seed germination after 120 days of storage.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this study, the essential oils could be explored as an alternative bio-pesticide to synthetic insecticide in the protection of stored cowpea against C. maculatus.
Colchicine ameliorates the chronic inflammatory state in patients with chronic rheumatic valvular heart disease: a pilot study
Authors: Rifaie Osama , Badr Mahmoud , Salam Ahmed Abdel , Galal Haitham
Published: July 2020

Background

Inflammation is an important contributor to the pathogenesis of rheumatic heart disease (RHD). High serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are commonly seen in patients with chronic (RHD) and indicate the presence of a chronic inflammatory state. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of colchicine as anti-inflammatory drug on the serum levels of the inflammatory markers (CRP) and (IL-6) in patients with chronic (RHD).

Results

This is a prospective controlled study that enrolled thirty-five patients with chronic (RHD) visiting Ain Shams University Hospital’s outpatient clinic for receiving regular long acting penicillin as rheumatic fever prophylaxis. Ten matched healthy individuals were taken as control group. Blood samples for serum levels of CRP and IL-6 were collected before and 1 month after receiving colchicine 0.5 mg BID. Mean (CRP) level was 6.09 ± 4.39 IU/ml versus 0 IU/ml in the control group respectively (P = 0.0001). Mean (IL-6) level was 113.57 ± 37.41 ng/l versus 10.50 ± 5.99 ng/l, in the control group (p = 0.0001). Mean (CRP) was 6.09 ± 4.39 IU/ml before and became 3.34 ± 3.07I U/ml 1 month after colchicine therapy. Mean (IL-6) level was 113.57 ± 37.4 ng/l before and became 45.57 ± 20.39 ng/l 1 month after colchicine therapy (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

In this pilot study, using colchicine as anti-inflammatory drug in patients with chronic (RHD) significantly reduced the serum inflammatory markers (CRP) and (IL-6), thus helping in ameliorating their chronic inflammatory state.
Metastatic colorectal carcinoma initially diagnosed by bone marrow biopsy: a case report and literature review
Authors: Alghandour Reham , Saleh Gehad A. , Shokeir Farida Ahmed , Zuhdy Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Background

Colorectal carcinoma still represents a global health burden despite the advances in its management. The most common sites of distant metastasis from colorectal carcinoma are hepatic and pulmonary metastases while metastases are rarely reported to affect the bone marrow.

Case presentation

We report a 33-year-old female patient who presented with fever of unknown origin, bone aches limited to the lower back and pelvis, and pancytopenia. She was diagnosed by a bone marrow biopsy as a case of metastatic rectosigmoid carcinoma. Serum tumor markers were within normal ranges; CT, MRI, and colonoscopy confirmed the presence of malignant rectosigmoid mass with bone and ovarian metastases.

Conclusion

Though being rare, bone marrow metastasis should be suspected in colorectal carcinoma cases with abnormalities in peripheral blood count.
The associations between childhood trauma and work functioning in adult workers with and without depressive and anxiety disorders
Authors: De Venter Maud , Elzinga Bernet M. , Van Den Eede Filip , Wouters Kristien , Van Hal Guido F. , Veltman Dick J. , Sabbe Bernard G. C. , Penninx Brenda W. J. H.
Published: July 2020

Background:

To examine the association between childhood trauma and work functioning, and to elucidate to what extent this association can be accounted for by depression and/or anxiety.

Methods:

Data of 1,649 working participants were derived from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA, n = 2,981). Childhood trauma (emotional neglect, psychological, physical, and sexual abuse before age 16) was assessed with a structured interview and work functioning, in terms of absenteeism and presenteeism, with the Health and Labor Questionnaire Short Form (SF-HLQ) and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule II (WHODAS-II), respectively. Depressive and/or anxiety disorders were assessed with the Composite Interview Diagnostic Instrument (CIDI). Mediation analyses were conducted.

Results:

At baseline, 44.8% reported to have experienced childhood trauma. Workers with the highest childhood trauma level showed significantly (p < 0.001) more absenteeism as well as more presenteeism. Mediation analyses revealed that indirect effects between the childhood trauma index and both work indices were significantly mediated by current depressive disorder (p = 0.023 and p < 0.001, respectively) and current comorbid depression-anxiety (p = 0.020 and p < 0.001, respectively), with the latter accounting for the largest effects (PM = 0.23 and PM = 0.29, respectively). No significant mediating role in this relationship was found for current anxiety disorder and remitted depressive and/or anxiety disorder.

Conclusions:

Persons with childhood trauma have significantly reduced work functioning in terms of absenteeism and presenteeism. This seems to be largely accounted for by current depressive disorders and current comorbid depression-anxiety.
Early onset of cannabis use and violent behavior in psychosis
Authors: Moulin Valerie , Alameda Luis , Framorando David , Baumann Philipp-S , Gholam Mehdi , Gasser Jacques , Do Cuenod Kim-Q , Conus Philippe
Published: July 2020

Background:

Although evidence from psychosis patients demonstrates the adverse effects of cannabis use (CU) at a young age and that the rate of CU is high in subgroups of young violent patients with psychotic disorders, little is known about the possible effect of the age of onset of CU on later violent behaviors (VB). So, we aimed to explore the impact of age at onset of CU on the risk of displaying VB in a cohort of early psychosis patients.

Method:

Data were collected prospectively over a 36-month period in the context of an early psychosis cohort study. A total of 265 patients, aged 18–35 years, were included in the study. Logistic regression was performed to assess the link between age of onset of substance use and VB.

Results:

Among the 265 patients, 72 had displayed VB and 193 had not. While violent patients began using cannabis on average at age 15.29 (0.45), nonviolent patients had started on average at age 16.97 (0.35) (p = 0.004). Early-onset CU (up to age 15) was a risk factor for VB (odds ratio = 4.47, confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–20.06) when the model was adjusted for age group, other types of substance use, being a user or a nonuser and various violence risk factors and covariates. History of violence and early CU (until 15) were the two main risk factors for VB.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that early-onset CU may play a role in the emergence of VB in early psychosis.