bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoption and economic impacts of laser land leveling in the irrigated rice‐wheat system in Haryana, India using endogenous switching regression
Authors: Aryal Jeetendra P. , Khatri‐Chhetri Arun , Sapkota Tek B. , Rahut Dil B. , Erenstein Olaf
Published: August 2020

This study assesses the factors affecting the adoption of laser land leveling (LLL) and its impact on crop yields and net returns. It uses household survey data collected from 621 randomly selected farmers in Karnal District of Haryana, India, and applies endogenous switching regression models. Unbiased model results show that the adoption of LLL has significant positive impacts on yields (rice +549 kg ha−1; wheat +471 kg ha−1) and net returns (an aggregate increase of US$230/ha) in the rice‐wheat production system, thereby raising farmers' income substantially. Our results show that LLL adoption at the farm level is influenced by land size and quality, tenure system, availability of farm machinery (tractor), access to finance and farm cooperatives, gender of household head, level of education and training and access to extension services. Therefore, LLL scaling strategies need to consider these bio‐physical and socio‐economic parameters to reach adoption at scale and generate large social, economic, and environmental benefits.
Positional Asphyxia in Opioid‐Related Deaths: Is It Being Overlooked?
Authors: deJong Joyce L. , Lee Jenelle , Grande Abigail , Huffman Cuyler , Bielby Chloe , Brown Theodore
Published: August 2020

The contribution of positional asphyxia in opioid‐related deaths is currently unknown. Diagnostic criteria for positional asphyxia include finding the decedent in a position that does not allow for adequate respiration and an inability to extricate themselves from the position due to various conditions. Our primary objective was to assess whether positional asphyxia and the resulting airway compromise were a contributing factor to death due to the toxic effects of opioids. We evaluated 225 deaths where the death scene investigation contained adequate information to evaluate for positional asphyxia and performed a Pearson chi‐square test to determine if the proportion of deaths found in an airway compromising position was higher when opioid(s) caused the death. The proportion of decedents found in a potential airway compromising position was greater when the death was related to opioid use (p < 0.0001). Further, narrowing the dataset to decedents who were definitely in an airway compromising position [Yes (24.49%) vs. No (11.02%)] showed a statistically significant association between positional asphyxia and deaths related to opioid use (p = 0.0021). Carefully documenting the position in which the decedent was initially found may be a significant factor in accurate reporting and in harm reduction efforts to decrease the opioid mortality rate.
Fast Discrimination of Marijuana using Automated High‐throughput Cannabis Sample Preparation and Analysis by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Horne Melissa , Mastrianni Kaylee R. , Amick Gray , Hardy Rachel , Renneker Elissa , Miller Kevin W.P.
Published: August 2020

In the United States, federal law and many state laws differentiate between marijuana and industrial hemp through delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels, whereby the latter is defined as ≤0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis. Many traditional cannabis identification methods employed by crime laboratories cannot accurately determine total THC quantities in accordance with federal and state regulations, or do so with increased time, labor, and risks of instrument damage. In order to quickly distinguish positive marijuana samples, a method was developed to identify plant material with a total THC level >1%. This novel, automated dispersive pipette extraction (DPX) method uses tip‐based technology and an automated liquid handler to enable fast, hands‐free selective isolation of THC and its precursors for downstream gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis. The workflow proceeds with no repetitive manual effort and reduced need for instrument maintenance while enabling crime labs to legally identify marijuana through the detection of total THC above 1%. Recovery of THC using the DPX extraction method was 93% at 30 µg/mL and 78% at 500 µg/mL. Similarly, THCA‐A recovery was 100% at 30 µg/mL and 74% at 500 µg/mL. Samples evaluated in a blind study (proficiency, hemp, and nonprobative case samples) were all accurately identified as greater than or less than 1% THC, with samples containing <1% THC being identified as “cannabis” and subjected to more discriminative analysis as needed.
Emergency department care for low back pain: Should we adopt recommendations from primary care guidelines?
Authors: Machado Gustavo C , Ghinea Narcyz , Rogan Eileen , Day Richard O , Maher Chris G
Published: August 2020

ED visits for low back pain are increasing, but the lack of specific guidance for emergency physicians impedes evidence‐based care, and adopting primary care recommendations may not be appropriate. The ED sees a different spectrum of low back pain presentations, where physicians are likely to encounter a larger proportion of patients with an underlying serious pathology or non‐spinal diseases than in primary care. Current low back pain guidelines do not adequately cover screening for these conditions, but making a differential diagnosis is crucial in emergency patients with low back pain. In this article, we also discuss the challenges in developing specific ED guidelines for low back pain, the limited evidence on the profile of these patients and the surprising dearth of randomised trials.
To engage or not? Antecedents of employee engagement in Sri Lanka
Authors: Mayuran Logendran , Kailasapathy Pavithra
Published: August 2020

This study integrates the resource demand and social exchange perspectives and assesses if employer brand, organizational politics, self‐efficacy, and family‐work conflict predict employee engagement. Furthermore, this paper examines the impact of boundary conditions of employee engagement by focusing on exchange ideology and gender. Data were collected using questionnaires from 411 managerial employees working in licensed commercial banks in Sri Lanka. The results revealed that employer brand, perceived organizational politics, and self‐efficacy were significantly related to employee engagement. The results, however, did not support the negative relationship between family‐work conflict and employee engagement or the moderating effect of gender on the relationship between family‐work conflict and employee engagement. But, exchange ideology moderated the relationship between employer brand and employee engagement albeit contrary to the hypothesized directions. The implications of this research, possible limitations and directions for future research are also discussed.
Glucagon‐like peptide 1 infusions overcome anabolic resistance to feeding in older human muscle
Authors: Abdulla Haitham , Phillips Bethan E. , Wilkinson Daniel J. , Limb Marie , Jandova Tereza , Bass Joseph J. , Rankin Debbie , Cegielski Jessica , Sayda Mariwan , Crossland Hannah , Williams John P. , Smith Kenneth , Idris Iskandar , Atherton Philip J.
Published: August 2020

Background

Despite its known insulin‐independent effects, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) role in muscle protein turnover has not been explored under fed‐state conditions or in the context of older age, when declines in insulin sensitivity and protein anabolism, as well as losses of muscle mass and function, occur.

Methods

Eight older‐aged men (71 ± 1 year, mean ± SEM) were studied in a crossover trial. Baseline measures were taken over 3 hr, prior to a 3 hr postprandial insulin (~30 mIU ml−1) and glucose (7–7.5 mM) clamp, alongside I.V. infusions of octreotide and Vamin 14 (±infusions of GLP‐1). Four muscle biopsies were taken, and muscle protein turnover was quantified via incorporation of 13C6 phenylalanine and arteriovenous balance kinetics, using mass spectrometry. Leg macro‐ and microvascular flow was assessed via ultrasound and anabolic signalling by immunoblotting. GLP‐1 and insulin were measured by ELISA.

Results

GLP‐1 augmented muscle protein synthesis (MPS; fasted: 0.058 ± 0.004% hr−1 vs. postprandial: 0.102 ± 0.005% hr−1, p < 0.01), in comparison with non‐GLP‐1 trials. Muscle protein breakdown (MPB) was reduced throughout clamp period, while net protein balance across the leg became positive in both groups. Total femoral leg blood flow was unchanged by the clamp; however, muscle microvascular blood flow (MBF) was significantly elevated in both groups, and to a significantly greater extent in the GLP‐1 group (MBF: 5 ± 2 vs. 1.9 ± 1 fold change +GLP‐1 and −GLP‐1, respectively, p < 0.01). Activation of the Akt‐mTOR signalling was similar across both trials.

Conclusion

GLP‐1 infusion markedly enhanced postprandial microvascular perfusion and further stimulated muscle protein metabolism, primarily through increased MPS, during a postprandial insulin hyperaminoacidaemic clamp.
CEO Optimism and the Cost of Bank Debt
Authors: Kim Yura , Kim Hyun‐Dong , Song Kyojik “Roy”
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the effect of the level of CEO optimism on loan spread and number of covenants using 4869 loan facilities (tranches) made to 1271 U.S. industrial firms over the period 1992–2011. We find that banks charge significantly lower spreads and impose a smaller number of covenants on loans made to firms with moderately optimistic CEOs. However, banks tend to charge higher costs on loans made to firms with low‐ or high‐optimism CEOs. The results suggest that the level of CEO optimism and the costs of bank loans have a convex relation.
The impact of caring for children with posterior urethral valves
Authors: Tan Peony Shih Pui , Mallitt Kylie‐Ann , McCarthy Hugh J. , Kennedy Sean E.
Published: August 2020

Aim

To investigate and describe factors contributing to the impact of caring for a child with posterior urethral valves and to determine the extent to which families view their care as family‐centred, and whether this can affect the impact of care.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, survey‐based study involving primary caregivers of children with posterior urethral valves. Caregivers completed the Impact on Family Scale (IOFS) and the Measure of Processes of Care (MPOC). Regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between child‐related variables, demographic variables, MPOC and IOFS scores.

Results

Thirty‐one primary caregivers completed both questionnaires. Caregivers of children with moderate/severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) scored higher on the IOFS compared to those caring for children with mild CKD. Caregivers rated care received highly but reported lower scores in subscales related to information provision. Receiving less respectful and supportive care was significantly associated with lower IOFS scores.

Conclusion

The impact of caring for a child with posterior urethral valves is variable and is strongly determined by the severity of the associated CKD. Further research is required to show whether improving family centredness of care can reduce the impact of caring for children with posterior urethral valves.
Review article: preventing hepatitis B graft infection in hepatitis B patients after liver transplantation: immunoglobulin vs anti‐virals
Authors: Park James S. , Gayam Vijay , Pan Calvin Q.
Published: August 2020

Background

A critical aspect of liver transplantation in hepatitis B patients is to prevent graft reinfection with hepatitis B virus. The use of hepatitis B immune globulin after transplant was a significant milestone, which allowed prolonged graft and patient survival by controlling hepatitis B reinfection in liver grafts. The development of anti‐viral treatments with oral nucleos(t)ide analogues, led to a further reduction in graft reinfection and improvement in patient survival. The combination of the aforementioned two therapies has been widely used in hepatitis B‐associated liver transplants.

Aims

To address the post‐transplant management of hepatitis B and provide updates on preventing graft reinfection.

Methods

We performed a literature search on Ovid and PubMed for randomised controlled trials or cohort studies in English, which investigated the effectiveness of hepatitis B immune globulin and anti‐viral therapy on hepatitis B‐associated transplants (1/2000‐1/2020). Studies that met pre‐established criteria were reviewed.

Results

Based on currently available evidence, an algorithm for post‐transplant management with anti‐viral therapy is proposed. Also, the management of recipients who received grafts from hepatitis B core antibody‐positive donors is discussed.

Conclusions

The development of hepatitis B immune globulin and anti‐viral treatments led to substantial improvement in graft and patient survival. The prevention of hepatitis B graft reinfection is complex and involves a broad interdisciplinary team.
Wild fallow deer (Dama dama) as definitive hosts of Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke) in alpine New South Wales
Authors: Jenkins DJ , Baker A , Porter M , Shamsi S , Barton DP
Published: August 2020

To determine the extent to which wild deer are contributing in the transmission of Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke) livers from deer shot by hunters, farmers undertaking population control on their farms and vertebrate pest controllers were collected and frozen. The livers were later thawed, sliced and examined for the presence of adult flukes or evidence of past infection. Livers from 19 deer were examined (18 fallow [Dama dama] and one sambar [Rusa unicolor]). Seventeen of the fallow deer were animals collected on farms near Jindabyne, New South Wales. The remaining fallow deer was collected in the Australian Capital Territory and one sambar deer was collected in north‐eastern Victoria. Nine of the 17 deer (53%) from the Jindabyne area were either infected with Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke) or had thickened bile ducts indicating past infection. Infection levels in the infected animals varied widely from 3 liver fluke to over 50 per liver. No sign of infection was present in the deer from the Australian Capital Territory or Victoria. Fallow deer are wide‐spread in the Jindabyne area and their population is increasing. It is likely their contribution to the maintenance and distribution of F. hepatica to livestock in the Jindabyne area, and in other livestock rearing areas of south‐eastern Australia, is important and increasing.
Shock and Objectivity in Modern Times: Some Thoughts about Bauhaus Architecture
Authors: Goetzmann Lutz
Published: August 2020

2019 marked the centenary of the Bauhaus movement. I took this anniversary as an opportunity to visit the new Bauhaus Museum in Weimar with friends. Here, however, I was surprised by the tormenting boredom that I felt during the visit. I experienced the building in the Bauhaus style as bleak, lifeless and ugly. My mood changed when a movie recording of Schlemmer's Triadic Ballet reminded us of World War I soldiers, the so‐called war‐tremblers, and I had intuitively related the very factual Bauhaus style to the war traumas of the Bauhaus generation. At that moment I saw the museum as a memorial to the victims of World War I, and I discovered parallels between trauma defence in the form of a mechanical lifestyle and the Bauhaus aesthetics, characterized by objectivity, typification and standardization. Against this background, I understand Bauhaus aesthetics in response to the triplicity of traumatic modernity, that is, to the primary helplessness, the death of God and the disasters of war. My thesis is that this architectural answer to the traumatic modernity remains valid until today, explaining the great success of the Bauhaus in modern times.
Comparison of the performances of the ADXBLADDER test and urinary cytology in the follow‐up of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer: a blinded prospective multicentric study
Authors: Gontero Paulo , Montanari Emanuele , Roupret Morgan , Longo Fabrizio , Stockley Jacqueline , Kennedy Ashleigh , Rodriguez Oscar , McCracken Stuart R.C. , Dudderidge Tim , Sieverink Caroline , Vanié Felicien , Allasia Marco , Witjes J. Alfred , Sylvester Richard , Colombel Marc , Palou Juan
Published: August 2020

Objective

To compare directly the performance of the ADXBLADDER test with that of cytology in the detection of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) recurrences.

Background

ADXBLADDER is a urine test based on the detection of MCM5, a DNA licensing factor expressed in all cells capable of dividing. Expression is usually restricted to the basal stem cell compartment; however, in malignancy, MCM5‐expressing cells can be found throughout the epithelium. Detection of MCM5 in urine sediment can be indicative of the presence of a bladder tumour.

Patients and Methods

A multicentre prospective, blinded study was carried out from August 2017 and July 2019 at 21 European Union centres, 14 of which collected matching cytology data. Urine was collected from patients prior to cystoscopy. Urine cytology and ADXBLADDER were performed and compared to the diagnosis obtained by cystoscopy. The performance of cytology and ADXBLADDER were then compared.

Results

The overall performance of ADXBLADDER demonstrated a sensitivity of 51.9%, a specificity of 66.4%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 92%. The sensitivity of ADXBLADDER for low‐ and high‐grade recurrences was 44.1% and 58.8%, respectively. By contrast, cytology sensitivity was 16.7%, specificity was 98% and NPV was 90.7%. Cytology sensitivity for both low‐ and high‐grade disease was 17.6%.

Conclusions

ADXBLADDER detection of both low‐ and high‐grade NMIBC recurrence is superior to that of cytology, with ADXBLADDER able to exclude the presence of high‐grade recurrence in 97.8% of cases compared to 97.1% with cytology. These results show that ADXBLADDER has promise as a more reliable alternative to urine cytology in the follow‐up of NMIBC.
Implementation analysis of pixel‐level image processing based on multiscale transforms
Authors: Albert Jesuwaram Ancy Mergin , Maria Sebastin Godwin Premi
Published: August 2020

Image processing covers a wide range of processing techniques. Image Fusion is one of those technique which plays a vital role with medical images since different imaging methods provide different set of clinical information for diagnosis. Advances in technology provide us with plenty of imaging modalities. Image fusion is essential for a joint analysis of these multimodality images since each of these modalities provide unique and complementary characterization of the underlying anatomy and tissue microstructure. This paper analyzes the image fusion methods based on multiscale transforms and implements using wavelet, contourlet, curvelet, and shearlet transform. The results are compared.
Onset and trajectory of alcohol and other drug use among Aboriginal men entering a prison treatment program: A qualitative study
Authors: Doyle Michael F. , Guthrie Jill , Butler Tony , Shakeshaft Anthony , Conigrave Katherine , Williams Megan
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are vastly over‐represented in Australian prisons. Many people in prison attribute in some way their offences to alcohol and/or other drug (AOD) use. This paper aims to understand AOD use before first and between terms in prison, among a group of Aboriginal men enrolled in a prison‐based AOD treatment program. It examines opportunities for prevention or treatment that might interrupt the cycle of alcohol consumption, offending and imprisonment.

Methods

A thematic analysis of in‐depth interviews with 14 Aboriginal men in an urban prison.

Results

Participants had low levels of formal education, none having completed high school and had spent limited or no time in the workforce. All 14 spoke of being negatively affected by AOD use within their families. First alcohol and cannabis use were around age 12–14 years, first amphetamines and/or heroin use was around age 15. As adults, they had unstable accommodation and when released from prison returned to the same situation they had been in previously. Most believed they would not have offended and subsequently imprisoned if they did not have a substance use disorder.

Discussion and Conclusion

Without further support post‐prison, the men in this study are likely to return to the same situation and continue their AOD use. Further efforts are needed to support families with substance use disorders and to give young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people better education and training opportunities.
Systemic immunosuppression in times of COVID‐19: Do we need to rethink our standards?
Authors: Grabbe Stephan , Beissert Stefan , Enk Alexander
Published: August 2020

The current SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic particularly endangers older people with pre‐existing cardiopulmonary and metabolic conditions. However, it is also currently under discussion whether patients under immunosuppressive therapy also have a higher risk of suffering a severe course of the COVID‐19 disease. In principle though, there is currently no data available for a general reduction or pause of immunosuppression in patients with autoimmune diseases because of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic. However, since there is currently neither an effective therapy nor corresponding vaccination protection, the indication for a prolonged immunosuppressive therapy should be made with special care. In particular, immunotherapeutic agents that produce long‐term effects (e.g., rituximab) should be used with special caution. In contrast, immunomodulating substances that do not suppress antiviral immunity (e.g. systemic immunoglobulins, doxycycline), or that have intrinsic effects on SARS‐CoV‐2 (calcineurin inhibitors, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine) may be useful alternatives.
Effects of insulin degludec and insulin glargine U300 on glycaemic stability in individuals with type 1 diabetes: A multicentre, randomized controlled crossover study
Authors: Miura Hiroshi , Sakaguchi Kazuhiko , Otowa‐Suematsu Natsu , Yamada Tomoko , So Anna , Komada Hisako , Okada Yuko , Hirota Yushi , Tamori Yoshikazu , Ogawa Wataru
Published: August 2020

To compare the effects of insulin degludec (IDeg) and insulin glargine U300 (IGlarU300) on glycaemic stability in subjects with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and methods

In this multicentre, crossover trial, 46 individuals with type 1 diabetes and essentially undetectable circulating C‐peptide were randomly assigned to either the IDeg‐first/IGlarU300‐second group or the IGlarU300‐first/IDeg‐second group, and were treated with the respective basal insulins for 4‐week periods. Data were collected in the last week of each treatment period. The primary aim was to examine the potential non‐inferiority of IDeg relative to IGlarU300 with regard to day‐to‐day variability, as evaluated by the standard deviation (SD) of fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels. Intra‐day glycaemic variability and other variables were also determined by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).

Results

The SD of FBG for IDeg was non‐inferior to that for IGlarU300. The mean of FBG, coefficient of variation of FBG, and various glycaemic variability indexes determined by CGM did not differ between the two insulins. Whereas the administered doses of the insulins also did not differ, the mean glycaemic value was lower for IDeg than IGlarU300; the time above the target range (>180 mg/dL [10.0 mmol/L]) and the time below the target range (<70 mg/dL [3.9 mmol/L]) were shorter and longer, respectively, for IDeg than IGlarU300.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that IDeg and IGlarU300 have comparable glucose‐stabilizing effects in individuals with type 1 diabetes. However, the glucose‐lowering effect of IDeg may be greater than that of IGlarU300 when titrated with a unit‐based protocol.
Cardiometabolic risk factor control in black and white people in the United States initiating sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors: A real‐world study
Authors: Montvida Olga , Verma Subodh , Shaw Jonathan E. , Paul Sanjoy K.
Published: August 2020

Aims

To explore cardiometabolic risk profiles, the probability of sustainable control, and the effectiveness of treatment with sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in black and white adults in the United States with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Using nationally representative US electronic medical records, 72 690 white and 10 004 black adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes initiating SGLT2 inhibitors during the period 2013 to 2018, continuing it for ≥6 months, and with follow‐up of ≥12 months, were identified. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and lipid changes at 6 months, and sustainability of control over 18 months post SGLT2 inhibitor initiation were explored, separately in those with and without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Results

The white group was older (58 years) with lower mean HbA1c (8.5%), compared to the black group (age 54 years, HbA1c 9.0%). Body mass index distribution was similar. The proportions of people with uncontrolled SBP, LDL cholesterol, non‐HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels were 24%, 42%, 51% and 62%, respectively, in white patients, and 31%, 51%, 49% and 32%, respectively, in black patients. At 6‐month follow‐up white and black patients had similar adjusted reductions in HbA1c (1.1%), SBP (8–10 mmHg), LDL cholesterol (0.26 – 0.34 mmol / L) and body weight (1.1–1.4 kg). However, over 18 months' follow‐up, compared to white patients, black patients were significantly less likely to achieve sustainable control in HbA1c (odds ratio [OR] 0.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63–0.72), body weight (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.72–0.91), SBP (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.61–0.74) and LDL cholesterol (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.67–0.89). Triglyceride control was significantly better among black patients. Black patients had a significantly higher risk factor burden, irrespective of ASCVD status.

Conclusions

While the effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors was similar among black and white patients, irrespective of ASCVD status, black patients continued to have worse cardiometabolic risk factor burden after SGLT2 inhibitor initiation.
Defeatist performance beliefs in individuals at clinical high‐risk for psychosis and outpatients with chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Clay Kendall B. , Raugh Ian M. , Bartolomeo Lisa A. , Strauss Gregory P.
Published: August 2020

Aim

Prior studies indicate that defeatist performance beliefs (DPBs) are elevated in those in the chronic phase of schizophrenia (SZ) and associated with negative symptoms, functional outcome and neurocognitive impairment. However, it is unclear whether these same patterns of results hold in participants at clinical high‐risk (CHR) for psychosis.

Methods

Two studies were conducted to determine whether prior results in SZ could be replicated and extended to CHR. Participants included 184 healthy controls (CN) and 186 outpatients with chronic SZ for Study 1, and 30 CN and 35 CHR in Study 2. In both studies, participants completed the DPB scale and measures of negative symptoms, psychosocial functioning and neurocognition.

Results

Both chronic SZ and CHR participants had elevated DPBs compared to CN (p's < .01). In SZ, higher DPBs were associated with greater negative symptoms (r's = .31‐.37, p's < .01), poorer social functioning and impaired social cognition (r = −.40, P < .001). In CHR, greater DPBs were associated with poorer social functioning (r = −.52, P < .05) and impairments in the neurocognitive domains of reasoning (r = −.48, P < .05) and processing speed (r = −.41, P < .05). Models testing whether DPBs mediated links between negative symptoms and functioning, negative symptoms and cognition and cognition and functioning were nonsignificant in SZ and CHR samples.

Conclusions

Findings generally provide support for the cognitive model of negative symptoms and functioning and suggest that DPBs are an important clinical target across phases of psychotic illness.
Can the occipital alpha‐phase speed up visual detection through a real‐time EEG‐based brain–computer interface (BCI)?
Authors: Vigué‐Guix Irene , Morís Fernández Luis , Torralba Cuello Mireia , Ruzzoli Manuela , Soto‐Faraco Salvador
Published: August 2020

Electrical brain oscillations reflect fluctuations in neural excitability. Fluctuations in the alpha band (α, 8–12 Hz) in the occipito‐parietal cortex are thought to regulate sensory responses, leading to cyclic variations in visual perception. Inspired by this theory, some past and recent studies have addressed the relationship between α‐phase from extra‐cranial EEG and behavioural responses to visual stimuli in humans. The latest studies have used offline approaches to confirm α‐gated cyclic patterns. However, a particularly relevant implication is the possibility to use this principle online, whereby stimuli are time‐locked to specific α‐phases leading to predictable outcomes in performance. Here, we aimed at providing a proof of concept for such real‐time neurotechnology. Participants performed a speeded response task to visual targets that were presented upon a real‐time estimation of the α‐phase via an EEG closed‐loop brain–computer interface (BCI). According to the theory, we predicted a modulation of reaction times (RTs) along the α‐cycle. Our BCI system achieved reliable trial‐to‐trial phase locking of stimuli to the phase of individual occipito‐parietal α‐oscillations. Yet, the behavioural results did not support a consistent relation between RTs and the phase of the α‐cycle neither at group nor at single participant levels. We must conclude that although the α‐phase might play a role in perceptual decisions from a theoretical perspective, its impact on EEG‐based BCI application appears negligible.
A functional m6A‐RNA methylation pathway in the oyster Crassostrea gigas assumes epitranscriptomic regulation of lophotrochozoan development
Authors: Le Franc Lorane , Bernay Benoit , Petton Bruno , Since Marc , Favrel Pascal , Rivière Guillaume
Published: August 2020

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent epitranscriptomic mark in eukaryotic RNA, with crucial roles for mammalian and ecdysozoan development. Indeed, m6A‐RNA and the related protein machinery are important for splicing, translation, maternal‐to‐zygotic transition and cell differentiation. However, to date, the presence of an m6A‐RNA pathway remains unknown in more distant animals, questioning the evolution and significance of the epitranscriptomic regulation. Therefore, we investigated the m6A‐RNA pathway in the oyster Crassostrea gigas, a lophotrochozoan model whose development was demonstrated under strong epigenetic influence. Using mass spectrometry and dot blot assays, we demonstrated that m6A‐RNA is actually present in the oyster and displays variations throughout early oyster development, with the lowest levels at the end of cleavage. In parallel, by in silico analyses, we were able to characterize at the molecular level a complete and conserved putative m6A machinery. The expression levels of the identified putative m6A writers, erasers and readers were strongly regulated across oyster development. Finally, RNA pull‐down coupled to LC‐MS/MS allowed us to prove the actual presence of readers able to bind m6A‐RNA and exhibiting specific developmental patterns. Altogether, our results demonstrate the conservation of a complete m6A‐RNA pathway in the oyster and strongly suggest its implication in early developmental processes including MZT. This first demonstration and characterization of an epitranscriptomic regulation in a lophotrochozoan model, potentially involved in the embryogenesis, bring new insights into our understanding of developmental epigenetic processes and their evolution.
Haemostatic efficacy of single‐dose factor administration in neonates with severe haemophilia undergoing circumcision
Authors: Swaminathan Neeraja , Thatcher Collin , Staber Janice M.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Perioperative management of children with haemophilia undergoing surgery is a complex and understudied topic. Circumcision is the most common procedure performed in the neonatal period, and guidelines to prevent bleeding complications from circumcision are lacking. Treatment protocols vary widely, and many centres treat patients with factor products for up to two weeks after circumcision. There is an unmet need for studies evaluating optimal factor replacement therapy around the time of circumcision in neonates with severe haemophilia.

Aim

To determine the efficacy of a single dose of factor replacement before circumcision to prevent bleeding complications in neonates with severe haemophilia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of male infants born between January 2000 and June 2019. Male neonates with severe haemophilia diagnosed at the Iowa Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center (n = 22) and healthy newborn controls who underwent circumcision at the University of Iowa Hospitals were included. Data were collected from the electronic medical record. Neonates with severe haemophilia were separated into two groups—those pretreated with one dose of factor replacement before circumcision and those without pretreatment.

Results

We observed that neonates with severe haemophilia pretreated with a single dose of factor VIII or factor IX replacement had significantly reduced bleeding complications, shorter hospital stay and required less therapeutic intervention compared with untreated patients. Importantly, pretreated patients had outcomes similar to healthy controls.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that a single dose of factor replacement before circumcision is effective to prevent bleeding in neonates with severe haemophilia.
TACC3 expression as a prognostic factor in aggressive types of adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma patients
Authors: Moritsubo Mayuko , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Matsuda Kotaro , Yoshida Noriaki , Nakashima Kazutaka , Yanagida Eriko , Yamada Kyohei , Takeuchi Mai , Suzuki Takaharu , Muta Hiroko , Umeno Takeshi , Furuta Takuya , Seto Masao , Ohshima Koichi
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a malignant peripheral T‐cell neoplasm associated with human T‐cell leukemia virus type‐1 (HTLV‐1). The acute and lymphoma subtypes are regarded as aggressive ATLLs, and the overall survival (OS) of patients remains poor. Transforming acidic coiled‐coil‐containing protein 3 (TACC3) regulates microtubules, which are associated with cancer‐related proteins overexpressed in various cancers. Such a relationship has not been reported in hematopoietic tumors, including ATLL.

Methods

We examined tissue microarrays of histological samples from 92 cases of aggressive ATLL and assessed clinical features, including TACC3 protein expression levels.

Results

Compared with TACC3‐low, TACC3‐high ATLL patients were significantly older (P < .001), with a tendency toward pleomorphic variant over other morphological classifications (P = .019). TACC3‐high patients (median survival time [MST] 10.6 months, confidence interval [CI] [6.27‐15.6]) had poorer OS compared to TACC3‐low patients (MST 20 months, CI [9.43‐38.5]) (P = .0168). Moreover, multivariate analysis on TACC3 expression levels suggests that TACC3‐high is an independent significant prognostic factor (HR, 1.700; 95% CI, 1.037‐2.753; P = .0355).

Conclusion

Certain drugs that inhibit TACC3‐overexpressing neoplastic cells are used clinically. Further studies might highlight a key role for TACC3 in the oncogenesis and progression of ATLL.
Optimal management of blood glucose, blood pressure and atrial fibrillation to reduce the risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Fan Li , Pan Jian‐An , Lin Hao , Wang Chang‐Qian , Zhang Jun‐Feng , Gu Jun
Published: August 2020

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension and atrial fibrillation (AF) are risk factors for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Aim

To examine the effects of the simultaneous control of all three conditions on new‐onset HFpEF in this population.

Methods

This prospective cohort study enrolled 552 patients with T2DM, hypertension and AF, but without clinical signs or symptoms of heart failure. The participants were followed up for 5 years to examine the effects of glycaemic control (haemoglobin A1c: <7.0%, 7.0%–8.0% and >8.0%), blood pressure (BP) control (systolic BP: <120, 120–140 and >140 mmHg) or rhythm versus rate control for AF on new‐onset HFpEF.

Results

With a follow up of 5 years, the new‐onset HFpEF occurred in 62 of 552 enrolled participants. Among the different control level for diabetes, hypertension and AF, the intensive blood glucose (BG) control, poor BP control and rate control of AF had the highest risk of new‐onset HFpEF, and the conservative BG control, intensive BP control and rhythm control of AF had the lowest risk of new‐onset HFpEF. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that both poor BP control (hazard ratio (HR): 1.421, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.013–1.992, P = 0.042) and rate control of AF (HR: 1.362, 95% CI: 1.006–1.821, P = 0.033) were independently associated with the development of new‐onset HFpEF.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that, besides intensive BP control, conservative BG control and rhythm control of AF were crucial factors to delay the progression of HFpEF among patients with T2DM, hypertension and AF.
Development of stereo vision in young infants
Authors: Röthlisberger Martina , Frick Andrea
Published: August 2020

In this study, infants’ visual processing of depth‐inducing stimuli was tested using a new method suitable for experimental settings. Stereograms of the Lang‐Stereopad® were presented in a timed preferential‐looking paradigm to determine infants’ preference for a stereogram as compared to a stimulus not inducing an impression of depth. A total of 80 infants were tested at 7 months of age; of these, a sub‐sample of 41 infants were tested longitudinally at 4 and 7 months to characterize the developmental trajectory of their preference. Infants were simultaneously presented with a card showing a random‐dot stereogram (800ʺ disparity) and a similar looking dummy card without stereogram. In the total sample, 7‐month‐olds showed a clear preference for the stereogram regardless of sex. In the longitudinal sample, 7‐month‐olds but not 4‐month‐olds looked significantly longer to the stereogram as compared to the dummy card. On individual level, 56% of the 4‐month‐olds and 85% of the 7‐month‐olds predominantly looked at the stereogram. The findings yield evidence for a clear developmental progression and show that the test cards of the Lang‐Stereopad® prototype provide a viable instrument to determine the preference for depth‐inducing stimuli in young infants when used in a controlled experimental setting.
Physical health assessment and cardiometabolic monitoring practices across three adult mental health inpatient units – a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Howard Rebekah , Kuhn Lisa , Millar Freyja , Street Maryann
Published: August 2020

Australians with lived experience of mental illness die on average 10 or more years earlier than the general population. Cardiometabolic disorders, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus, are common causes of premature death in this cohort. Little is known about cardiometabolic monitoring practices in mental health inpatient units. The aim of this study was to examine the characteristics of cardiometabolic monitoring and physical health assessments of adult mental health consumers within the first 72 hours of admission to an inpatient unit. We implemented a retrospective descriptive exploratory design by medical record audit. Data were collected using a pre‐validated audit tool, adapted with recent literature and policy, from a randomly selected sample of consumers admitted to three acute mental health adult inpatient units of a large Australian metropolitan health service in 2016. Of 228 consumers, the mean age was 37.5 (range 18–64) years and 51.3% were women. Cardiometabolic risks were common, yet most consumers received incomplete cardiometabolic monitoring. While few consumers (15%) were diagnosed with cardiometabolic comorbidities, 67.5% were prescribed psychotropic medications with high cardiometabolic risk. Compliance with recommended cardiometabolic monitoring varied considerably between risk factors: for example, blood pressure was measured in 56.1% of consumers, whereas waist circumference was never recorded. There were no statistically significant associations between cardiometabolic monitoring completion and sex or cardiometabolic risk. These findings demonstrate the need for increased education and awareness of cardiometabolic risk and identify a critical gap between physical health assessment practices and recommendations for this cohort.
Foot care knowledge, attitudes and practices among patients with diabetic foot and amputation in St. Kitts and Nevis
Authors: Hanley Gracelyn , Chiou Piao‐Yi , Liu Chieh‐Yu , Chen Hui‐Mei , Pfeiffer Stefani
Published: August 2020

About one‐third of admissions to the surgical unit annually are diabetes foot infections in need of amputation In St. Kitts and Nevis. However, the risk factors related to diabetes foot and amputation remain unknown. This study investigated factors associated with diabetic foot and amputation (DFA). Retrospective case control study design, and purposive and quota sampling method was used to recruit the participants. Patients with and without DFA were interviewed at two main hospitals, several primary health centres, and a private doctor's office during July and August 2018. Self‐development questionnaires were applied to assess patients' demographic, physical and behaviour, foot care knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to DFA. Chi‐square, t‐test, and multiple logistic regressions were used to analyse the data. A total of 210 patients were evaluated, 89 had DFA, while 121 did not, with a mean age of 61.10 (SD = 11.85). Participants' responses indicated good knowledge, favourable attitudes, and adequate practices related to foot care. The two items of the questionnaire, ways to maintain blood flow in the lower extremities and wash their feet daily, had significant lower score in DFA group. In multiple logistic regression, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to foot care were not a significant predictor of DFA. Being male was a predictor of DFA than female (OR = 3.53; 95% CI = 1.65‐7.57; P < .01). Participants who were currently unemployed were less likely to have DFA than those who were employed (OR = 0.38; 95% Cl = 0.17‐0.86; P < .05). Comparing patients with the longest experience of diabetes mellitus (31 years or more) with those who had diabetes for the shortest period of time (between 1 and 10 years) was less likely to have DFA (OR = 0.38; 95% CI = 0.15‐0.97; P = <.05). The combination of these independent variables could explain 29% of the variance in DFA. Based on these findings, strategies to prevent diabetic foot and amputation should focus on male and outdoor heavy worker, and longer duration of diabetes patients which are identified in this study.
Effects of strength‐based intervention on health outcomes of family caregivers of persons with dementia: A study protocol
Authors: S. F. Yu Doris , Cheng Sheung‐Tak , Chow Esther Oi‐Wah , Kwok Timothy , Mccormack Brendan
Published: August 2020

Aims

This study aims at identifying the health effects of a strength‐based intervention on family caregivers of persons with dementia and to explore the underlying mechanism. The perception of family caregivers on the strength‐based intervention will also be explored.

Design

This sequential mixed‐method study comprises a double‐blind randomized controlled trial and a descriptive qualitative study.

Methods

A group of 372 family caregivers of persons with dementia will be recruited from community settings. They will be randomized to receive the strength‐based intervention or a dementia education program. Based on Antonovksy's theory of salutogenesis, the strength‐based intervention integrates skills of narrative therapy and empowerment strategies. It comprises 14 weekly group‐based sessions and two bi‐weekly follow‐up telephone calls. The education program serves as the control intervention. Validated instruments are used to measure sense of coherence, coping, caregiver burden, and health‐related quality of life at baseline, 14 weeks, and 22 weeks. Mixed‐effects models and path analysis will be used to identify the treatment effect and the mediating mechanism. A subsample of 30 caregivers who report differential changes in the health outcome will be engaged in qualitative interviews. The study was funded in 2017.

Discussion

This study marks the first attempt to adopt a theory‐driven strength‐based approach to improve the health outcomes of family caregivers of persons with dementia. The stringent and comprehensive evaluation will inform its effects and the underlying mechanism.

Impact

This study will have important theoretical and public health implications. Theoretically, the study will enhance understanding of Antonovsky's theory of salutogenesis by examining the modifiability of sense of coherence and the way it enhances health‐related outcomes. In terms of public health implications, the strength‐based intervention focusing on optimizing the inner strength can provide a new paradigm to promote the adjustment of family caregivers of persons with dementia.

Trial Registration

This project was registered in the Clinical Trials Registry of the Centre for Clinical Research and Biostatistics (registration number: CUHK_CCRB00551; date registered: 6 April 2017).
The inhibition of microRNA‐326 by SP1/HDAC1 contributes to proliferation and metastasis of osteosarcoma through promoting SMO expression
Authors: Huang Jiang‐Hu , Xu Yang , Lin Fei‐Yue
Published: August 2020

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone cancer lacking of effective treatment target when the metastasis occurred. This study investigated the implication of MicroRNA‐326 in OS proliferation and metastasis to provide the clue for the treatment of metastatic OS. This study knocked down SP1 in MG63 and 143B cells and then performed Microarray assay to find the expression of miRNAs that were influenced by SP1. MTT, EdU, wound‐healing and cell invasion assays were performed to evaluated cell proliferation and invasion. OS metastasis to lung was detected in a nude mice model. ChIP assay and DAPA were applied to determine the regulatory effect of SP1 and histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC) complex on miR‐326 expression. Human OS tissues showed lowly expressed miR‐326 but highly expressed Sp1 and HDAC. Sp1 recruited HDAC1 to miR‐326 gene promoter, which caused the histone deacetylation and subsequent transcriptional inhibition of miR‐326 gene. miR‐326 deficiency induced the stimulation of SMO/Hedgehog pathway and promoted the proliferation and invasion of 143B and MG63 cells as well as the growth and metastasis in nude mice. SP1/HDAC1 caused the transcriptional inhibition of miR‐326 gene by promoting histone deacetylation; miR‐326 deficiency conversely stimulated SMO/Hedgehog pathway that was responsible for the proliferation and metastasis of OS.