bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated text analysis for understanding radical activism: The topical agenda of the North American animal liberation movement
Authors: Almquist Zack W. , Bagozzi Benjamin E.
Published: June 2020

It is difficult to study radical social movements due to their often covert, fluid, and fleeting qualities. As a consequence, data limitations and/or theoretical disagreements abound within research on such movements. We contend that the texts produced by radical movements and their supporters provide a window into group features, and that recent advances in automated text analysis methods afford a means for unlocking these texts in a systematic fashion. We evaluate the contentions through an automated analysis of the radical animal liberation movement’s primary North American publication. Our application provides novel insights into the topical agenda of animal liberationists, and the relative attention paid towards networking, (non)violence, radicalization, and direct actions. Examination of these topics over time further reveals a number of ideological and tactical shifts, which are predictive of future direct-action events. This demonstrates the benefits of automated text analysis for the study of radical movements and their texts.
Educating for Comprehensive Well-being
Authors: Wortham Stanton , Love-Jones Renata , Peters William , Morris Stacy , García-Huidobro Juan Cristóbal
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Educational approaches that advocate “well-being,” the “whole child,” “social and emotional learning,” “character,” and the like emphasize human development beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills. These approaches vary widely in their views of human nature, their visions of a good life, and their prescriptions for educational practice. This article maps out heterogeneous contemporary approaches to “well-being” and related constructs, thereby allowing researchers, educators, and policymakers to understand the divergent assumptions made by the proliferating approaches to education that go beyond academics.

Design/Approach/Methods:

This article presents results from a 2-year project, which included interviews with advocates of different approaches and review of key literature about eleven educational approaches to “well-being,” the “whole child,” “social and emotional learning,” “character,” and similar noncognitive ends.

Findings:

The article argues that any educational approach to “well-being” and related constructs must respond to four questions: whether humans are bundles of discrete competencies or integrated wholes, what the appropriate relation is between individuals and society, the relative importance of instrumental and intrinsic goals, and the importance of an overarching purpose for one’s life. The analysis reviews how eleven contemporary approaches address these four questions.

Originality/Value:

Despite the global proliferation of divergent approaches to “well-being,” the “whole child,” “social and emotional learning,” “character,” and related constructs in education, there are no comprehensive frameworks for understanding the alternatives and their key assumptions. This article organizes the globally proliferating educational movements that promote “well-being,” making sense of a confusing set of alternatives. We also argue that any comprehensive approach to education that goes beyond academics must consider the four questions that we identify.
A Retrospective Analysis of Gender-Based Difference in Adherence to Initial Colon Cancer Screening Recommendations
Authors: Valery Jose Raul , Applewhite Andres , Manaois Alyssa , Dimuna John , Sher Taimur , Heckman Michael G. , Brushaber Danielle E. , Stancampiano Fernando
Published: June 2020

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, despite being largely preventable and treatable. Improving overall screening rates among both men and women is considered an important and effective strategy toward reducing morbidity and mortality from CRC. In order to optimize screening strategies, factors associated with decreased compliance need to be understood. This study aimed to compare initial CRC screening rates between males and females in a population of patients who presented for an annual physical examination. Methods: A retrospective chart review study of 380 patients designed to compare rates of initial CRC screening between males and females was conducted. Patients who were seen at our institution for an annual physical examination and were between 51 and 60 years of age were included. Results: There was no evidence of a difference in the rate of initial colon cancer screening between females (83.0%) and males (80.9%) in either unadjusted analysis (odds ratio = 1.16, P = .59) or in multivariable analysis adjusting for potential confounding variables (odds ratio = 1.16, P = .61). Conclusions: There was no significant difference in the rate of initial CRC screening between males and females who presented for an annual physical examination. This suggests that designing interventions to improve screening specific to gender may not be needed in a population of patients who attend routine preventive health examinations. Further study is needed in the general population to examine for gender-based differences in initial CRC screening among patients who do not regularly follow up for preventive examinations.
Social–Behavioral Stories in the Kindergarten Classroom: An App-Based Counseling Intervention for Increasing Social Skills
Authors: Bardhoshi Gerta , Swanston Jeremy , Kivlighan D. Martin
Published: June 2020

This preliminary research examined the effectiveness of an app-based classroom counseling intervention on student social skill development. Two kindergarten classrooms in a high-poverty school were randomly assigned to receive social skills training as usual (TAU) or TAU plus intervention. Teachers completed the Social Skills Improvement System Scale pre- and postintervention. Results indicated that receiving the intervention plus TAU significantly improved students’ social skills and problematic behaviors, as reported by their teachers, compared to TAU. We discuss findings and clinical implications.
Academic Achievement and Peer Tutoring in Mathematics: A Comparison Between Primary and Secondary Education
Authors: Alegre Francisco , Moliner Lidón , Maroto Ana , Lorenzo-Valentin Gil
Published: June 2020

Peer tutoring in Mathematics has reported academic benefits across many educational levels, from Preschool to Higher Education. However, recent literature reviews and meta-analysis state that students experience higher gains in Primary or Elementary Education (ages 7–12 years) than in secondary education or middle school and high school (ages 13–18 years). This study examined the effects of peer tutoring on students’ mathematics achievement in primary and secondary education under similar settings. 89 students from first, fourth, seventh, and ninth grades participated in the study. The design of this research was quasi-experimental with pretest–posttest without control group. The statistical analysis reported significant improvements for both, Primary and Secondary Education. The comparison between these educational levels showed that there were no significant differences in the increments of the students’ marks. The global effect size reported for the experience was Cohen’s d = 0.78. The main conclusion is that Peer Tutoring in Mathematics reports similar academic benefits for both, Primary and Secondary Education. Future research must be conducted as the superiority of Peer Tutoring in Primary over Secondary Education has yet to be proved in the Mathematics subject.
Estimating the Economic Viability of Cotton Growers in Punjab Province, Pakistan
Authors: Wei Wei , Mushtaq Zulqarnain , Ikram Amir , Faisal Muhammad , Wan-Li Zhang , Ahmad Muhammad Irshad
Published: June 2020

Considering the farmer’s decision of quitting cotton plantation due to low economic incentives, the current research is intended to evaluate the economic viability of cotton growers in Punjab. A comprehensively pretested questionnaire was used to gather the information from 240 cotton growers in face-to-face interviews. The cost–benefit ratio was estimated by calculating incurred variable costs, revenue generated, net farm income, and gross margin. The data envelopment analysis was applied to explore the economic, technical, and allocative efficiencies of the cotton producers. The second-stage regression analysis was also conducted to evaluate the socioeconomic factors affecting farmer’s efficiencies by applying the Tobit regression model. The small farmers were found to be most vulnerable group with low returns on investments and low technical and economics efficiencies score. The results also indicate that the financial constraints, difficulty to access agriculture credit, access to extension services, and lack of formal education are the main factors affecting farmer’s efficiency. The government should regulate the input prices and agriculture department should provide formal training to the farmers to adopt better management practices to reduce cost of production.
Health Risk Factors Among Miners, Oil and Gas Extraction Workers, Other Manual Labor Workers, and Nonmanual Labor Workers, BRFSS 2013–2017, 32 States
Authors: Yeoman Kristin , Sussell Aaron , Retzer Kyla , Poplin Gerald
Published: June 2020

Background: Analyzing health risk factors among current workers by industry and occupation (IO) provides information on disparities between worker groups, especially when comparing workers within manual labor occupations. Mining and oil and gas extraction (OGE) are unique industries with different work environments that could affect health risk factors. The study objective was to compare the prevalence of health risk factors of miners, OGE, other manual labor, and nonmanual labor workers. Methods: The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System’s IO module was analyzed for years 2013–2017 to compare prevalences of excessive alcohol use, smoking, smokeless tobacco use, seat belt use, inadequate sleep, and obesity among four worker groups. National Health Interview Survey IO codes were used to categorize miners, OGE, other manual labor, and nonmanual labor workers. Findings: Miners and OGE workers had higher prevalence estimates than both nonmanual and manual labor workers for all health risk factors except current smoking. Both miners and OGE workers were significantly more likely than other manual labor workers to report smokeless tobacco use and not always wearing seatbelts. Compared with other manual labor workers, OGE workers were significantly more likely to report obesity, and miners were significantly more likely to report inadequate sleep. Conclusion/Application to Practice: Prevalence of most health risk factors differed among miners, OGE, other manual labor, and nonmanual labor workers. These differences could lead to disparities in health outcomes. Occupational health professionals in mining and OGE can use this information to inform and target integrated wellness and health and safety programs.
Media Framing of the Unified Korean Olympic Women’s Ice Hockey Team
Authors: Oh Taeyeon , Kim Seungmo , Love Adam , Seo Won Jae
Published: June 2020

North and South Korea competed with a unified women’s ice hockey team at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang, South Korea. Although the two nations had fielded unified teams at previous international sporting events, the decision to form a unified women’s ice hockey team in 2018 became a contentious political issue. To investigate the relationship between traditional media and social media when covering a controversial political issue in sport, the researchers in the current study examined newspaper coverage and Twitter commentary focused on the unified Korean women’s ice hockey team. Results indicated that newspapers played an important agenda-setting role; progressive newspapers were active in framing the team positively throughout the Olympic Games period, whereas conservative papers covered the team less frequently and framed it negatively. Discussion about the unified team on Twitter was initially positive but turned primarily negative when controversial statements from politicians and issues of unfairness in team selection arose. Ultimately, the results highlight elements of the symbiotic relationship between traditional media and social media.
Somatotype of Santal Tribal Women of West Bengal in India
Authors: Adhikari Anup , Dash Keya
Published: June 2020

Sixty-four Santal tribal women from Paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal, India, were studied for their somatotype. The studied women were with an average age of 32.5 ± 11.6 years with a wide age range of 16–70. Average height was 150.2 (±5.2) cm. Heath–Carter method (1967) was followed for somatotyping. Average somatotype of the studied Santal women was 3.9 (±1.5) – 4.1 (1.1) – 2.9 ± (1.7). A total of 16–20 year age group had an average somatotype of 3.7 (±1.0) – 3.3 (±0.7) – 3.4 (±1.5), whereas that of 21–30 had an average somatotype of 3.4 (±1.2) – 3.7 (±1.0) – 3.9 (±1.5). A total of 31–40 year age group were more mesomorphic with an average somatotype of 4.4 (±1.6) – 4.4 (±1.2) – 2.1 (±1.7). Mesomorphy component increased as the Santal women grew up. The women from age group 41 to 50 year had an average somatotype of 4.0 (±1.6) – 4.6 (±1.1) – 1.9 (±1.3), whereas that of older women of 51–70 year age group were more mesomorphic with an average value of 5.0 (±1.9) – 5.1 (±0.7) – 1.7 (±0.7). Thus, muscularity of the Santal women increased as age increased. This was due to their changed lifestyle from young age to older age where older had to do more physical work than the young adults. Thus, well-built muscular body type of Santal women was an adaptation for hard physical work for survival.
Individual, Spousal Factors and Work–Family Conflict: A Study from Sri Lanka
Authors: Chrisangika Perera J. K. S. , Kailasapathy Pavithra
Published: June 2020

Work–family conflict (WFC) has emerged as a challenging issue all over the world. Based on identity, scarcity, basic human values and crossover theories, we examined how life role salience, value of self-enhancement, gender and spouse’s emotional stability affect WFC. Data were collected using questionnaires from 167 dual-earner couples in Sri Lanka. All the variables, except for emotional stability, were measured from the focal employee concerned. Emotional stability was measured from the spouse. Four moderated multiple regressions were conducted to test the proposed model. This study found that a higher level of occupational role salience predicts work-to-family conflict. Further, results indicated that a higher value of self-enhancement increases work-to-family conflict, gender determines the level of family-to-work conflict, and spouse’s emotional stability directly crossovers to reduce family-to-work conflict of the other spouse. Hence, it is evident that not only individual factors but factors related to significant others such as spouses also create WFC. This research contributes to the advancement of the existing understanding on WFC as life role salience, values and crossover effect of spousal factors are still under-researched areas in work–family literature.
Thoracic lymphadenopathy as possible predictor of the onset of interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis patients without lung involvement at baseline visit: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Rotondo Cinzia , Urso Livio , Praino Emanuela , Cacciapaglia Fabio , Corrado Addolorata , Cantatore Francesco Paolo , Iannone Florenzo
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To evaluate clinical, laboratory, or radiographic predictors of the onset of interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis.

Methods:

Sixty-five out of 220 systemic sclerosis outpatients, without interstitial lung disease at baseline and with ⩾3 chest high resolution computed tomography scans during follow-up were recruited. Thoracic lymphadenopathy and interstitial lung disease were assessed by chest high resolution computed tomography. Hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of interstitial lung disease occurrence was assessed by Cox regression models, adjusting patient’s demographics and disease characteristics. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the interstitial lung disease predictors were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results:

The development of interstitial lung disease was observed in 44/65 (68%) patients. Thoracic lymphadenopathies was detected in 40/65 (61%) patients, of whom 36 (82%) developed interstitial lung disease, but only four patients with thoracic lymphadenopathies did not develop ILD at last visit of follow-up (19%) (p = 0.0001). Adjusted hazard ratio of systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease onset was 5.8 (95% confidence interval, 2.0–16.5) for thoracic lymphadenopathy, which preceded by 108 ± 98 weeks the systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease detection. Thoracic lymphadenopathy had 84% specificity, 81% sensitivity, and 0.82 accuracy to predict interstitial lung disease. In particular, anticentromere antibodies or limited cutaneous subset of systemic sclerosis patients with thoracic lymphadenopathy showed earlier interstitial lung disease onset than those without lymphadenopathy. In addition, patients who developed interstitial lung disease had higher frequency of anti-Scl-70 (57% vs 19%; p = 0.009) and diffuse cutaneous subset (29% vs 3%; p = 0.02) than those who did not.

Conclusions:

Thoracic lymphadenopathy was the strongest independent predictor of systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease, mostly in anticentromere antibodies and limited cutaneous subset of systemic sclerosis patients. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm our preliminary data and to understand whether thoracic lymphadenopathies may have a pathogenetic role in interstitial lung disease development.
Ultrasound‐Guided Fine‐Needle Biopsy of First 1000 Consecutive Thyroid Nodules: Single‐Surgeon Experience
Authors: Dhingra Jagdish K.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To study the feasibility, safety, and learning curve of ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy (USGFNB) performed by a newly trained otolaryngologist in a community office in a setting.

Study Design

Collect USGFNB data of all thyroid nodules in a prospective manner.

Setting

A dedicated ultrasound clinic in a large community‐based practice, operated by a single surgeon with the purpose of providing office‐based point‐of‐care diagnostic ultrasonography and USGFNB.

Subjects and Methods

Data on the first 1000 unselected consecutive thyroid nodules that underwent USGFNB over a 3‐year period were analyzed. Chi‐square analysis was used to assess the statistical significance of characteristics of diagnostic vs nondiagnostic nodules. A multivariate regression analysis was conducted to determine nodule characteristics predictive of adequate sampling. Diagnostic yield and time efficiency data were plotted over a 3‐year period to study the learning curve for the USGFNB procedure performed by an operator with no previous experience.

Results

A total of 1000 nodules in 734 patients including 142 males and 592 females (age range, 17‐87 years) were studied. Of the patients, 188 of 734 had more than 1 nodule biopsied, with a maximum of 4 nodules biopsied in 1 setting. The procedure was successfully completed in all patients, with no major complications. A steep learning curve was observed, and adequate samples were obtained in 91.9% of the patients on the first attempt. The cystic nature of the nodule was the biggest predictor of a nondiagnostic yield.

Conclusions

Otolaryngologist‐performed USGFNB of the thyroid is safe, effective, and desirable.
New Medical Device and Therapeutic Approvals in Otolaryngology: State of the Art Review of 2019
Authors: Rameau Anais , Hong Robert Stephen , Djalilian Hamid , Erbele Isaac David , Phillips Katie M. , Capasso Robson , Rose Austin S. , Brenner Michael Joel , Santa Maria Peter Luke
Published: June 2020

Objective

To review new devices and drugs relevant to otolaryngology–head and neck surgery that were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019.

Data Sources

Approval notifications for 2019 were extracted from the ENT (ear, nose, and throat) and general and plastic surgery sections of the FDA’s medical devices and therapeutics listings.

Review Methods

New therapeutics and medical devices identified from the query were analyzed by members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery’s Medical Devices and Drugs Committee. Technologies were assessed by 2 independent reviewers to ascertain relevance to otolaryngology, prioritized, and classified to subspecialty field with critical review based on extant scientific literature.

Conclusions

Query of the FDA drug and device database returned 105 ENT devices (50 cleared, 55 with premarket approval, and 0 de novo), 543 general and plastic surgery devices (372 cleared, 170 with premarket approval, and 1 de novo), and 46 new otolaryngology‐relevant drug approvals that occurred in 2019. Advances spanned all subspecialty areas with otology predominating, primarily due to hearing‐related technologies. While scientific evidence was available for all new devices, there was significant heterogeneity in rigor of supporting scientific data.

Implications for Practice

Technological and pharmaceutical innovation is an important catalyst for advances in the surgical specialties. Familiarity with new devices and therapeutics in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery ensures that clinicians keep abreast of developments with potential to improve prevailing standards of care.
Interleukin-15 superagonist (N-803) treatment of PML and JCV in a post–allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant patient
Authors: Oza Aabha , Rettig Michael P. , Powell Phil , O’Brien Kathryn , Clifford David B. , Ritchey Julie , Gehrs Leah , Hollaway Julia , Major Eugene , Fehniger Todd A. , Miller Christopher A. , Soon-Shiong Patrick , Rock Amy , DiPersio John F.
Published: June 2020

Key Points

Therapy with an IL-15 superagonist resulted in immune and clinical responses in a transplant recipient with PML.
Apolipoprotein A-I enhances activated protein C cytoprotective activity
Authors: Gleeson Eimear M. , Rehill Aisling M. , Willis Fox Orla , Ni Ainle Fionnuala , McDonnell Cormac J. , Rushe Hannah J. , McCluskey Seán , O’Donnell James S. , Preston Roger J. S.
Published: June 2020

Key Points

High-density lipoprotein and apolipoprotein A-I enhance activated protein C cytoprotective activity. High-density lipoprotein and apolipoprotein A-I significantly increase the rate at which activated protein C degrades cytotoxic extracellular histones.
The applicability of web-based solutions in headache epidemiology research
Authors: Toom Kati , Raidvee Aire , Braschinsky Mark
Published: June 2020

Background

Epidemiological research of headache is vital but resource consuming prerequisite for evidence-based development in the field. Rapid evolution of information technology may provide new opportunities for population-based surveys. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of web-based solutions in epidemiological studies of primary headaches.

Methods

An online survey was conducted among 20–64 year old Estonian citizens, using a previously validated headache questionnaire. The participants were accessed through most popular portals and e-mail domains to get the maximum coverage of Estonian digital community. The resulting one-year headache prevalences were compared to those acquired in parallel from a population-based cross-sectional person-to-person study in Estonia.

Results

Five thousand seven hundred eight entries were made by 5347 participants in the online study. Of the participants, 3896 (72.9%) had no headache, 1436 (26.8%) had only one and 15 (0.3%) had more than one type of headache. The study sample demographics were statistically significantly different from Estonian population and the prevalences were adjusted by age, gender, education and habitat. The proportion of headache sufferers was smaller in the online study sample (23.1% vs 41.0% in the population-based parallel person-to-person study). Among the headache sufferers the proportions of different headache diagnoses were similar across the two studies with the exceptions of episodic migraine and episodic tension-type headache. There were less migraine and more tension-type headache sufferers in the online study sample.

Discussion

This is the first study addressing applicability of web-based solutions in headache related large epidemiological studies. Online approach presents a much faster means of data collection, larger samples, has mechanisms of avoiding data contamination and distinguishes the proportions of most primary headache disorders among the headache sufferers. However, the present online survey was significantly biased towards the people without headache, leading to underestimation of headache prevalence. This stems from the shortcomings related to method of sampling, access and engagement.

Conclusion

Online headache epidemiology research could be a resource saving alternative to person-to-person studies, however, further research is needed to overcome the problems related to methods of sampling, access and engagement.
Proteomic Analysis of Rice Subjected to Low Light Stress and Overexpression of OsGAPB Increases the Stress Tolerance
Authors: Liu Yangxuan , Pan Ting , Tang Yuying , Zhuang Yong , Liu Zhijian , Li Penghui , Li Hui , Huang Weizao , Tu Shengbin , Ren Guangjun , Wang Tao , Wang Songhu
Published: June 2020

Background

Light provides the energy for photosynthesis and determines plant morphogenesis and development. Low light compromises photosynthetic efficiency and leads to crop yield loss. It remains unknown how rice responds to low light stress at a proteomic level.

Results

In this study, the quantitative proteomic analysis with isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) was used and 1221 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified from wild type rice plants grown in control or low light condition (17% light intensity of control), respectively. Bioinformatic analysis of DEPs indicated low light remarkably affects the abundance of chloroplastic proteins. Specifically, the proteins involved in carbon fixation (Calvin cycle), electron transport, and ATPase complex are severely downregulated under low light. Furthermore, overexpression of the downregulated gene encoding rice β subunit of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (OsGAPB), an enzyme in Calvin cycle, significantly increased the CO2 assimilation rate, chlorophyll content and fresh weight under low light conditions but have no obvious effect on rice growth and development under control light.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that low light stress on vegetative stage of rice inhibits photosynthesis possibly by decreasing the photosynthetic proteins and OsGAPB gene is a good candidate for manipulating rice tolerance to low light stress.
Between fairness, welfare and feasibility: an approach for applying different distributive principles in transport evaluation
Authors: te Boveldt Geert , Keseru Imre , Macharis Cathy
Published: June 2020

Background

For assessing the desirability and feasibility of major transport projects decision makers often recur to ex-ante evaluation methods such as cost-benefit analysis or multi-criteria analysis. In these methods projects are evaluated for their impacts on the welfare of society as one indivisible entity. The use of these methods is limited for assessing socio-spatial equity, as costs and benefits of transport are unequally spread over space and society. Moreover, in projects that cross political borders these methods poorly represent the spatially differentiated interests of the decision makers.

Methods

This article proposes a novel evaluation approach, applied in a study on the possible demolition of a motorway linking the three Belgian regions of Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia.

Results

The application demonstrates how the social and spatial differentiation of effects can be evaluated, allowing to differentiate impacts for crucial stakeholders or criteria, but also to aggregate evaluation results in cases where pursuing supra-local or common interests is appropriate.

Conclusions

Whether and where decision making in transport should follow utilitarian or egalitarian distributive principles depends on context and political considerations. The presented approach allows decision makers to apply both principles where they are deemed appropriate, transparently, in a single project.
Evaluation of four scoring systems in prognostication of acute pancreatitis for elderly patients
Authors: Li Yajie , Zhang Jun , Zou Jihong
Published: June 2020

Background

To evaluate the ability of four scoring systems (Ranson, BISAP, Glasgow, and APACHE II) to predict outcomes of acute pancreatitis (AP) in elderly patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 918 patients presenting with AP at Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, from January 2015 to December 2018. We divided patients into two groups: 368 patients who were ≥ 60 years old, and 550 patients who were < 60 years old. Four scoring systems were used to analyze all patients.

Results

The severity of the disease, and mortality were significantly different between the two groups (p < 0.05), while the difference between the two groups about pancreatic necrosis is statistically insignificant (p = 0.399). The differences of the AUCs (Area under curves) for prediction of outcome of SAP (severe acute pancreatitis) between the two groups were statistically significant for Ranson and APACHE II (p < 0.05), but not for the differences between BISAP and Glasgow. All the four scoring systems were similar in terms of prediction of pancreatic necrosis and death in both groups.

Conclusions

Prediction of severity, pancreatic necrosis, and death in AP for elderly patients can be performed very well by using BISAP. APACHE II is more suitable for younger patients when dealing with severity. Ranson and Glasgow can be used to evaluate all AP patients in most cases; however, Ranson is more effective for younger patients when used to assess severity.
The clinical characteristics and risk factors for necrotizing pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children
Authors: Zheng Baoying , Zhao Jing , Cao Ling
Published: June 2020

Background

The incidence of necrotizing pneumonia (NP) caused byMycoplasma pneumoniae(MP) is increasing. We analyzed the clinical characteristics and the risk factors for NP caused by MP.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted in 37 patients with NP caused by MP (NP group) and 74 patients diagnosed with lobarM. pneumoniaepneumonia with no necrosis (control group) who were admitted to our hospital between January 2013 and December 2017. The clinical manifestations, laboratory data, imaging findings, treatments and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

The proportion of females, the incidence of pleural effusion, fever duration, hospitalization days, white blood cell count, neutrophil ratio, D-dimer level and use of other types of antibiotics were higher in the NP group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The control group exhibited a greater use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) than the NP group (P < 0.05). According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, a white blood cell count > 12.3 × 109/L (Odds ratio, OR = 6.412), a neutrophil ratio > 73.9% (OR = 6.081) and D-dimer level > 1367.5 ng/mL (OR = 8.501) were risk factors for pulmonary necrosis caused by MP. Furthermore, the use of LMWH (OR = 0.074) reduced the risk of pulmonary necrosis.

Conclusions

NP is a rare complication of severeMycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia (SMPP), and although the clinical course is longer than common MP infection, the necrotic area is absorbed gradually. In patients with SMPP presenting with lobar consolidation, a white blood cell count > 12.3 × 109/L, a neutrophil ratio > 73.9% and D-dimer level > 1367.5 ng/mL are risk factors for pulmonary necrosis, and the use of LMWH reduces the risk of pulmonary necrosis.
Culling reasons and risk factors in Estonian dairy cows
Authors: Rilanto Triin , Reimus Kaari , Orro Toomas , Emanuelson Ulf , Viltrop Arvo , Mõtus Kerli
Published: June 2020

Background

Culling is a major cost for dairy farms but also an essential part in managing herd productivity. This study aimed to identify the culling rates of Estonian dairy cows, identify the farmers’ stated reasons and risk factors for culling. This observational study used registry data of all cows from herds with ≥20 cow-years in 2013–2015. Cow lactation-level analyses included data of 86,373 primiparous cows from 409 herds and 177,561 lactations of 109,295 multiparous cows from 410 herds. Weibull proportional hazard regression models were used to identify risk factors for culling due to slaughter or death.

Results

The overall culling rate of Estonian dairy cows was 26.24 (95% CI 26.02; 26.46) per 100 cow-years. The most common reasons farmers stated for culling were feet/claw disorders (26.4%), udder disorders (22.6%), metabolic and digestive disorders (18.1%) and fertility problems (12.5%). Animal-level risk factors for culling were Holstein breed, older parity, lower milk yield breeding value, older age at first calving, longer previous calving interval, having assisted calving, stillbirth and birth of twins/triplets. Lower milk yield, somatic cell count over 200,000 cells/ml and fat/protein ratio over 1.5 at first test-milking after calving were associated with greater culling hazard during the lactation. Cows from larger herds, herds with decreasing size and higher milk yields had a higher culling probability.

Conclusions

This study emphasises the need for improved management of hoof health and prevention of mastitis and metabolic diseases. It is essential to ensure easy calving and good health of cows around calving in order to lower the culling hazard.
Leukocyte telomere length in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia
Authors: Nanthatanti Nithita , Tantiworawit Adisak , Piriyakhuntorn Pokpong , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Hantrakool Sasinee , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Norasetthada Lalita , Tuntiwechapikul Wirote , Fanhchaksai Kanda , Charoenkwan Pimlak , Kumfu Sirinart , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: June 2020

Background

Thalassemia is a hereditary hemolytic anemia with a severity ranging from mild, non-transfusion dependent to severe chronic anemia requiring lifelong transfusion. Transfusional iron overload is a major complication in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). Telomeres are sequences of nucleotides forming the end caps of chromosomes that act as a DNA repair system. Iron overload in thalassemia can cause increased oxidative stress which leads to cellular damage and senescence. This may result in telomere length shortening. The degree of telomere length shortening may reflect the severity of thalassemia.

Methods

This research aimed to study the leukocyte telomere length in patients with TDT in comparison to non-thalassemic individuals and to identify the clinical and laboratory parameters that are associated with telomere length. We conducted a cross-sectional study in patients with TDT aged ≥18 years. Leukocyte telomere length was measured by real-time quantitative PCR.

Results

Sixty-five patients with TDT were enrolled onto the study. There were 37 female patients (54.4%). The median age was 27 (18–57) years, and mean pre-transfusion hemoglobin level was 7.1 (± 1.07) g/dL. The mean telomere to single copy gene (T/S) ratios of patients with TDT and the controls were 0.72 ± 0.18 and 0.99 ± 0.25, respectively (p < 0.0001). There was a significant correlation between the T/S ratio and age (p = 0.0002), and hemoglobin level (p = 0.044). There was no correlation between telomere length and other factors.

Conclusions

Our study showed that TDT patients had shorter leukocyte telomere length compared with controls. Leukocyte telomere shortening in TDT was an aging-dependent process and associated with lower hemoglobin level.
Measuring disease activity in COPD: is clinically important deterioration the answer?
Authors: Singh Dave , Criner Gerard J. , Naya Ian , Jones Paul W. , Tombs Lee , Lipson David A. , Han MeiLan K.
Published: June 2020

Given the heterogeneity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), personalized clinical management is key to optimizing patient outcomes. Important treatment goals include minimizing disease activity and preventing disease progression; however, quantification of these components remains a challenge. Growing evidence suggests that decline over time in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), traditionally the key marker of disease progression, may not be sufficient to fully determine deterioration across COPD populations. In addition, there is a lack of evidence showing that currently available multidimensional COPD indexes improve clinical decision-making, treatment, or patient outcomes. The composite clinically important deterioration (CID) endpoint was developed to assess disease worsening by detecting early deteriorations in lung function (measured by FEV1), health status (assessed by the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire), and the presence of exacerbations. Post hoc and prospective analyses of clinical trial data have confirmed that the multidimensional composite CID endpoint better predicts poorer medium-term outcomes compared with any single CID component alone, and that it can demonstrate differences in treatment efficacy in short-term trials. Given the widely acknowledged need for an individualized holistic approach to COPD management, monitoring short-term CID has the potential to facilitate early identification of suboptimal treatment responses and patients at risk of increased disease progression. CID monitoring may lead to better-informed clinical management decisions and potentially improved prognosis.
Malaria outbreak investigation in a rural area south of Zimbabwe: a case–control study
Authors: Mundagowa Paddington T. , Chimberengwa Pugie T.
Published: June 2020

Background

Ninety percent of the global annual malaria mortality cases emanate from the African region. About 80–90% of malaria transmissions in sub-Saharan Africa occur indoors during the night. In Zimbabwe, 79% of the population are at risk of contracting the disease. Although the country has made significant progress towards malaria elimination, isolated seasonal outbreaks persistently resurface. In 2017, Beitbridge District was experiencing a second malaria outbreak within 12 months prompting the need for investigating the outbreak.

Methods

An unmatched 1:1 case–control study was conducted to establish the risk factors associated with contracting malaria in Ward 6 of Beitbridge District from week 36 to week 44 of 2017. The sample size constituted of 75 randomly selected cases and 75 purposively selected controls. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and Epi Info version 7.2.1.0 was used to conduct descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analyses of the factors associated with contracting malaria.

Results

Fifty-two percent of the cases were females and the mean age of cases was 29 ± 13 years. Cases were diagnosed using rapid diagnostic tests. Sleeping in a house with open eaves (OR: 2.97; 95% CI 1.44–6.16; p < 0.01), spending the evenings outdoors (OR: 2.24; 95% CI 1.04–4.85; p = 0.037) and sleeping in a poorly constructed house (OR: 4.33; 95% CI 1.97–9.51; p < 0.01) were significantly associated with contracting malaria while closing eaves was protective (OR: 0.45; 95% CI 0.20–1.02; p = 0.055). After using backward stepwise logistic regression, sleeping in a poorly constructed house was associated with five-fold odds of getting sick from malaria (AOR: 8.40; 95% CI 1.69–41.66; p = 0.009). Those who had mosquito nets did not use them consistently. The district health team and the rural health centre were well prepared to response despite having limited human resources.

Conclusion

Health promotion messages should emphasize the importance of closing the entry points of the malaria vector, and the construction of better houses in the future. Residents had to be educated in the importance of consistent use of mosquito nets. The district had to improve malaria preventive measures like distribution of mosquito nets and lobby for more human resources to assist with malaria surveillance thus, curbing the recurrence of malaria outbreaks.
Emerging high-risk ST101 and ST307 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae clones from bloodstream infections in Southern Italy
Authors: Loconsole Daniela , Accogli Marisa , De Robertis Anna Lisa , Capozzi Loredana , Bianco Angelica , Morea Anna , Mallamaci Rosanna , Quarto Michele , Parisi Antonio , Chironna Maria
Published: June 2020

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-KP) is an urgent public health issue in Italy. This pattern of resistance is due mainly to dissemination of carbapenemase genes. Molecular characterization of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-KP) strains was performed over a three-year period. In-depth analysis was performed on a subset of emerging CR-KP ST101 and ST307 clones.

Methods

A prospective study was performed on 691 patients with CR-KP bloodstream infections hospitalized in 19 hospitals located in three large provinces in Southern Italy. Carbapenemase genes were identified via genotyping methods. Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) were carried out on ST101 and ST307 isolates.

Results

Among the CR-KP isolates, blaKPC was found in 95.6%, blaVIM was found in 3.5%, blaNDM was found in 0.1% and blaOXA-48 was found in 0.1%. The blaKPC-3 variant was identified in all 104 characterized KPC-KP isolates. MLST of 231 representative isolates revealed ST512 in 45.5%, ST101 in 20.3% and ST307 in 18.2% of the isolates. cgMLST of ST307 and ST101 isolates revealed presence of more than one beta-lactam resistance gene. Amino acid substitution in the chromosomal colistin-resistance gene pmrB was found in two ST101 isolates.

Conclusions

ST512 is widespread in Southern Italy, but ST101 and ST307 are emerging since they were found in a significant proportion of cases. Aggressive infection control measures and a continuous monitoring of these high-risk clones are necessary to avoid rapid spread of CR-KP, especially in hospital settings.
Meat quality and lipid fatty acid profile from wild thrush (Turdus philomelos), woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) and starling (Sturnus vulgaris): a preliminary comparative study
Authors: Tarricone Simona , Colonna Maria Antonietta , Cosentino Carlo , Giannico Francesco , Ragni Marco
Published: June 2020

Background

The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional proximate composition, some qualitative traits and fatty acid profile of meat from wild thrush, woodcock and starling hunted in Southern Italy in 2017 and 2018.

Methods

Nutritive composition and physical traits of meat and lipid fatty acid profile were evaluated in breast muscle (Pectoralis major) of gamebirds.

Results

From findings, the meat pH was significantly (P < 0.001) higher in starling when compared to the other two species. Thrush meat was significantly (P = 0.002) darker and had higher redness (P < 0.001) and yellowness (P = 0.004) in comparison to starling and woodcock. Thrush breast muscle showed the highest (P < 0.001) level of lipids and lowest (P < 0.001) protein content. Meat from thrush showed the best lipid fatty acid profile based on the higher (P < 0.001) monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and lower (P < 0.001) saturated fatty acids (SFA) concentrations. Starling breast muscle reported the highest (P = 0.002) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) level compared to both thrush and woodcock, whereas no differences were detected on total n-3. The ratio n-6/n-3 was higher (P = 0.001) in starling muscle. Thrush breast muscle had the lowest (P < 0.001) atherogenic and thrombogenic indices compared to the other gamebirds.

Conclusions

The findings indicated that meat from the three investigated gamebirds species may represent a healthily lipid food source for human consumption in relation to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
The long and winding road to happiness: A randomized controlled trial and cost-effectiveness analysis of a positive psychology intervention for lonely people with health problems and a low socio-economic status
Authors: Weiss Laura A. , Oude Voshaar Martijn A. H. , Bohlmeijer Ernst T. , Westerhof Gerben J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the positive psychology intervention ‘Happiness Route’ compared to an active control condition in a vulnerable population with an accumulation of health and psychosocial problems.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, single-blind, actively-controlled, parallel group study in seven municipalities in the Netherlands. To be eligible, participants had to experience loneliness, health problems and low socio-economic status. Each group received several home visits by a counsellor (two in the control condition, two to six in the experimental condition). In the Happiness Route, a happiness-based approach was used, whereas the control condition used a traditional problem-based approach. The primary outcome was well-being, measured with the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF).

Results

Fifty-eight participants were randomized to the Happiness Route, 50 to the control condition. Participants were severely lonely, had on average three health problems and less than 5% had paid work. The total MHC-SF score, emotional and social well-being, depression and loneliness improved significantly over the nine-month period in both conditions (p < .05), but there were no significant changes between the conditions across time. Languishing decreased significantly from 33% at baseline to 16% at follow-up among the Happiness Route participants but did not change significantly in the control condition. No significant improvement over time was found in psychological well-being, resilience, purpose in life, health-related quality of life and social participation. Cost-effectiveness analysis showed that expected saved costs per QALY lost was €219,948 for the Happiness Route, relative to the control condition. The probability was 83% that the Happiness Route was cost saving and 54% that the Happiness Route was cost-effective at a willingness to accept a threshold of €100,000.

Conclusions

Mental health status of both groups improved considerably. However, we could not demonstrate that the Happiness Route yielded better health outcomes compared to the control condition. Nevertheless, the results of the cost-effectiveness analysis suggested that the Happiness Route is an acceptable intervention from a health-economic point of view. Our results should be viewed in light of the fact that we could not include the planned number of participants.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial Register:NTR3377. Registered 2 Apr 2012.
CLN5 in heterozygosis may protect against the development of tumors in a VHL patient
Authors: de Rojas-P Isabel , Albiñana Virginia , Recio-Poveda Lucía , Rodriguez-Rufián Amanda , Cuesta Ángel M. , Botella Luisa-María
Published: June 2020

Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL) is a rare disease of dominant inheritance that increases susceptibility to tumor development, with a complete penetrance at the age of 60. In this report, we present the unprecedented case of a VHL carrier who remains healthy at 72. Under the course of this study, it was discovered that this patient carries a mutation for a second rare disease, Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL or CNL). We hypothesize that the CLN mutation she carries offers a protective effect, preventing tumor development in the cells potentially suffering a VHL second hit mutation. To test this hypothesis, we ran a series of molecular experiments and confirmed that cell viability of primary endothelial cells decreases upon CLN5 silencing. Our results further elucidate the cell biology implications of two rare diseases interacting.