bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of alcohol addition to traditional fuels on soot formation: A review
Authors: Hua Yang , Liu Fushui , Wu Han , Lee Chia-Fon , Li Yikai
Published: April 2020

Soot is one of the main pollutants produced by incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels, which poses a serious threat to human health and the urban environment. Alcohols have been generally considered to be a potential clean fuel to reduce soot emissions. At present, alcohol fuels represented by methanol, ethanol, butanol and pentanol have been extensively studied and have made remarkable progress. Therefore, this article is written as a broad overview of the subject. The effects of methanol, ethanol, butanol and pentanol additions on the formations of soot and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were systematically summarized from the two aspects of the internal combustion engine bench and the fundamental combustion system. These studies have shown a decreasing or synergistic effect of alcohols addition on soot formation and initially revealed the mechanism of soot formation. However, the formation mechanism of soot in complex environments and the mechanism of the effects of alcohols on soot still need to be studied in depth, which can provide more opportunities for humans to reduce soot production during the combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. Finally, some challenges and research suggestions are outlined in the last section of this review.
The expanded view of individualism and collectivism: One, two, or four dimensions?
Authors: Fatehi Kamal , Priestley Jennifer L , Taasoobshirazi Gita
Published: April 2020

Recent research to analyze and discuss cultural differences has employed a combination of five major dimensions of individualism–collectivism, power distance, uncertainty avoidance, femininity–masculinity (gender role differentiation), and long-term orientation. Among these dimensions, individualism–collectivism has received the most attention. Chronologically, this cultural attribute has been regarded as one, then two, and more recently, four dimensions of horizontal and vertical individualism and collectivism. However, research on this issue has not been conclusive and some have argued against this expansion. The current study attempts to explain and clarify this discussion by using a shortened version of the scale developed by Singelis et al. ((1995) Horizontal and vertical dimensions of individualism and collectivism: a theoretical and measurement refinement. Cross-Cultural Research 29(3): 240–275). Our analysis of aggregate data from 802 respondents from nine countries supports the expanded view. Data aggregation was based on the Mindscape Theory that proposes inter- and intracultural heterogeneity. This finding is reassuring to scholars who have been using the shortened version of the instrument because confirmatory factor analysis indicated its validity. The findings of the present study provides clarification of some apparent ambiguity in recent research in specifying some cultures such as India, Israel, and Spain as individualists or collectivists. By separating the four constructs, more nuanced classification is possible. Also, such a distinction enables us to entertain such concepts as the Mindscape Theory that proposes a unique intracultural and transcultural heterogeneity that do not stereotype the whole culture as either individualist or collectivist.
Tipping the Scales: Factors Influencing the Decision to Report Child Maltreatment in Primary Care
Authors: Kuruppu Jacqueline , McKibbin Gemma , Humphreys Cathy , Hegarty Kelsey
Published: April 2020

Child maltreatment (CM) is an important public health issue linked to significant physical and mental health complications across the life span. Given the association between CM and health, general practitioners (GPs) and primary care nurses (PNs) are well-placed to identify and respond to this issue and are mandated to report suspected CM in many jurisdictions. Research has found that primary care doctors and nurses need support when responding to CM. This scoping review sought to answer the following question: What factors influence GPs and PNs decision to report CM when fulfilling their mandatory reporting duty? By exploring these factors, areas where support is needed were pinpointed. A systematic search was run across four databases: Medline (Ovid), PsycINFO, Embase, and CINAHL. Articles that reported on studies conducted in a location that had mandatory reporting legislation specific to CM and had a study population sampled from primary care were included in analysis. Thirty-three articles met the inclusion criteria. This review found that four principal factors influenced the decision to report CM: personal threshold of suspicion of abuse, relationship with the family, faith in the child protection system, and education and discussion. We conclude that improving the support and training to address these four areas may be beneficial for GPs and PNs in responding to CM.
Collaborative Development and Implementation of a Video-Based Curriculum Expansion to Improve Refugee Women’s Birth Experiences in the United States
Authors: Fuller Tyler J. , Leonard Mackenzie , Cochran Jenny , Hutchins Rebecca J. , Brioche Rachelle , Kitiabi Henry , Cranmer John N.
Published: April 2020

Many refugee and immigrant women in the United States experience cultural and language barriers when seeking pregnancy-related medical care. Such barriers may delay needed care and adversely impact birth outcomes. Embrace Refugee Birth Support (Embrace) in Clarkston, Georgia, supports pregnant refugee women by offering birth education classes in the women’s primary languages. Our academic–practice partnership designed and implemented a series of birth education videos for Embrace participants. Based on input from former participants, the partnership team created video scenarios that could be embedded into Embrace’s existing didactic curriculum. The videos addressed common challenges and learning needs identified by previous participants. All videos were filmed in the participant’s primary languages (Swahili and Kinyarwanda) and featured actual Embrace graduates who spoke the languages. Then, Embrace trainers used the video scenarios to augment teaching on birth preparedness and foster participant discussion during class sessions. After implementation, a focus group with participants in the video-expanded class reported the videos were well received, understood, and practically related to their pregnancy needs. Overall, participants reported that video scenarios were an important part of their learning and skill development, as well as a positive experience. Embrace has plans to continue creating native language educational videos for additional languages and birth-related topics. The academic partner’s attempts to measure video impact with standardized quantitative instruments at baseline were terminated. The substantive revisions in data collection strategies highlight the need for cross-cultural flexibility and the potential for unforeseen barriers when using quantitative research tools among non–English-speaking participants.
Defensive Coordinator and Head Coach Effects on Team Defensive Performance in the National Football League
Authors: Pitts Joshua D. , Evans Brent A.
Published: April 2020

This research examines the impact of defensive coordinators and head coaches on team defensive performance in the National Football League (NFL). We find that elite and very poor defensive coordinators and head coaches can have meaningful impacts on their teams’ defensive performances. A team’s defensive performance is shown to improve with increased defensive coordinator tenure. Similarly, defensive coordinators and head coaches who were NFL players contribute to improved defensive performance compared to coaches without experience as NFL players. In addition, a 3-4 defensive alignment is found to be associated with improved defensive performance compared to a 4-3 defensive alignment.
Assessing the Retest Reliability of Prefrontal EEG Markers of Brain Rhythm Slowing in the Eyes-Closed Resting State
Authors: Choi Jungmi , Lim Eunjo , Park Min-Goo , Cha Wonseok
Published: April 2020

Objective. We examined whether prefrontal lobe EEG markers of slower brain rhythms, which are correlated with functional brain aging, can reliably reflect those of other brain lobes, as measured by a multichannel device. Methods. EEG measurements were taken of 112 healthy individuals aged 20 to 69 years in the eyes-closed resting state. A 5-minute measurement was taken at 8 regions (Fp1, Fp2, F3, F4, T3, T4, O1, O2). Indices (median frequency [MDF], peak frequency [PF]) that quantitatively reflect the characteristics of EEG slowing, and traditional commonly used spectral indices (absolute powers as delta, theta, alpha, beta, and relative power as alpha-to-theta ratio [ATR]), were extracted from the EEG signals. For these indices, the differences between the prefrontal lobe and other areas were analyzed and the test-retest reproducibility was investigated. Results. The EEG slowing indicators showed high conformity over all brain lobes and stable reproducibility. On the other hand, the typical EEG spectral indicators delta, theta, alpha, beta, and ATR differed between brain regions. Conclusion. It was found that EEG slowing markers, which were used for assessing the aging or degeneration of brain functions, could be reliably extracted from a prefrontal EEG alone. Significance. These findings suggest that EEG prefrontal markers may reflect markers of other brain regions when a multi-channel device is used. Thus, this method may constitute a low-cost, wearable, wireless, easily accessible, and noninvasive tool for neurological assessment that could be used in the early detection of cognitive decline and in the prevention of dementia.
Molecular Mechanism of Cytotoxicity, Genotoxicity, and Anticancer Potential of Green Gold Nanoparticles on Human Liver Normal and Cancerous Cells
Authors: Bin-Jumah May N. , Al-Abdan Monera , Al-Basher Gadah , Alarifi Saud
Published: April 2020

Nanomaterials are extensively applied in various fields such as industry, medicine, and food and drugs due to their unique properties. In this study, gold nanoparticles were biosynthesized using leaf extract of Azadirachta indica and chloroauric acid salt. We have determined the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and apoptotic effect of green gold nanoparticles (gGNPs) on human normal (CHANG) and liver cancer (HuH-7) cells. Before exposure to cells, physiochemical characteristic of gGNPs was characterized using a transmission electron microscope and dynamic light scattering. Cytotoxicity of gGNPs was found dose-dependent, as it was confirmed using 2 methods, namely, 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and neutral red uptake. The gGNPs provoked intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxide, and reduced total glutathione and mitochondrial membrane potential in CHANG and HuH-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. We have observed that N-acetyl-l-cysteine inhibits the generation of ROS in both cells after exposure to gGNPs. DNA damaging effects of gGNPs were determined by comet assay, and the maximum DNA damage was observed at 700 µg/mL gGNPs for 24 hours. It was observed that HuH-7 cells are slightly more sensitive to gGNPs exposure than CHANG cells. In conclusion, cytotoxicity and apoptosis in CHANG and HuH-7 cells due to gGNPs were mediated through oxidative stress.
Intraoperative Dexmedetomidine Versus Midazolam in Patients Undergoing Peripheral Surgery With Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Peng Jing , He Fujuan , Qin Chenguang , Que Yuanyuan , Fan Rui , Qin Bin
Published: April 2020

Background:

The intra- and postoperative effects of dexmedetomidine are not completely consistent and midazolam/fentanyl is most widely used in peripheral surgeries. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the sedative, analgesic, hemodynamic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects of dexmedetomidine against midazolam in patients undergoing peripheral surgeries with mild traumatic brain injuries.

Methods:

Medical records of patients who underwent peripheral surgeries with mild traumatic brain injury were included in the analysis. Patients received intraoperative midazolam (MDZ cohort, n = 225) or dexmedetomidine (DEX cohort, n = 231). Pre-, intra-, and postoperative characteristics of patients were collected and analyzed.

Results:

After administration of anesthesia, up to 40 minutes, patients of the MDZ group had lower modified observer’s assessment of alertness/sedation score than those of the DEX group ( P = .041), but after 40 minutes, patients of the MDZ group had a higher score than those of the DEX group throughout surgeries ( P = 0.048). The DEX group has less requirements of postoperative morphine/equivalent doses than the MDZ group (4 ± 1 vs 5 ± 1, P < .0001, q = 18.451).

Conclusions:

Intraoperative DEX offers better sedation, postoperative analgesia, and clinical recovery for peripheral surgeries and suppresses inflammatory response.

Level of Evidence:

III.
Developing an Initial Program Theory to Explain How Patient-Reported Outcomes Are Used in Health Care Settings: Methodological Process and Lessons Learned
Authors: Flynn Rachel , Schick-Makaroff Kara , Levay Adrienne , Greenhalgh Joanne
Published: April 2020

A central aspect of any theory-driven realist investigation (synthesis or evaluation) is to develop an initial program theory (IPT). An IPT can be used to frame and understand how, for whom, why, and under what contexts complex interventions work or not. Despite well-established evidence that IPTs are a central aspect to any realist investigation, there is wide variation and a lack of methodological discussion on how to develop an IPT. In this article, we present the approach that we used to develop an IPT of how patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used in health care settings. Specifically, we completed a systematic review to extract tacit theories reported in the literature. The benefit of this approach was that it provided a rigorous review of the literature in the development of IPTs. The challenges included (1) rediscovering what is already well established in the theoretical literature, (2) generating an overabundance of partial candidate theories, and (3) extensive use of time and resources for what was the first stage to our larger funded research study. Our recommendations to other scholars considering this approach are to ensure that they (1) live within their means and (2) narrow the scope of the research question and/or develop a conceptual framework using middle-range theories. These methodological insights are highly relevant to researchers embarking on a realist investigation, tasked with developing an IPT.
Research Methodological Challenges and Recommendations for Conducting a Comparative Qualitative Longitudinal Study Across Two Countries on Different Continents
Authors: Sanip Suhaila
Published: April 2020

A qualitative longitudinal study has become the preferred methodology for many researchers who are interested in documenting changes as the focus of analysis. Debates on appropriate qualitative longitudinal designs and methodological models are actively ongoing. The choice of methodological models to fit into a qualitative longitudinal design will depend on the objectives of the study. Many researchers have also reported on the use of qualitative longitudinal study, in particular on the challenges in study design, data collection, and data analysis. In the researcher’s review of the relevant literature, however, the researcher was unable to locate the use of a qualitative longitudinal methodology to study the same phenomenon comparatively across two countries on different continents. This article, therefore, adds to the current understanding of qualitative longitudinal study through the discussion of methods and recommendations for conducting a comparative qualitative longitudinal study across two countries on different continents. This article discusses the research methodological challenges and recommendations, as well as lessons learned, upon completion of a doctoral study in 2016. As not many researchers have undertaken a comparative qualitative longitudinal approach in a doctoral study, it is worth sharing with researchers who are planning a similar methodology what they could expect and should be prepared for.
School-to-work transitions support: ‘cruel optimism’ for young people in ‘the state of insecurity’
Authors: Chadderton Charlotte
Published: April 2020

In this paper, I argue that current arrangements for school-to-work transitions support in England, now school-based, are designed to contribute towards ensuring the consent of the population for what I refer to as the ‘state of insecurity’ (Lorey, 2015): the neoliberal relationship between the individual and the state in which insecurity is promoted as freedom. Based on an analysis of policy, the paper argues that the government careers strategy for young people aims to contribute to shaping the precarious subjects which inhabit the state of insecurity, by encouraging them to internalise neoliberal values around freedom and individualism which accompany governmental precarisation. Drawing also on the work of Judith Butler (2011), I suggest that throughout the careers strategy, neoliberalism functions as performative or hegemonic norm which is cited to constitute notions of ‘good’ or ‘normal’ labour market arrangements, aspirations and selves. I suggest that this strategy is an example of Berlant's (2011) ‘cruel optimism’, which constitutes a fantasy of a ‘good life’ which is in fact likely to be unattainable to many young people, especially the more disadvantaged.
Chemical Composition of Actinodaphne pilosa Essential Oil From Vietnam, Mosquito Larvicidal Activity, and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Chung Nguyen Thanh , Huong Le Thi , Hung Nguyen Huy , Hoi Tran Minh , Dai Do Ngoc , Setzer William N.
Published: April 2020

Leaves of Actinodaphne pilosa were collected at 2 different seasons from the Pù Hoạt Nature Reserve, Vietnam. The leaf samples were hydrodistilled to give essential oils, which were analyzed by gas chromatography (GC)–mass spectrometry and GC-flame ionization detection. The major components in the essential oils were α-pinene, ( Z)-β-ocimene, ( E)-β-ocimene, β-caryophyllene, germacrene D, bicyclogermacrene, and spathulenol. The essential oils were screened for antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans, as well as mosquito larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, and Culex quinquefasciatus. Actinodaphne pilosa leaf essential oils showed broad antimicrobial activity (minimum inhibitory concentration = 32, 64, 64, 16, and 16 μg/mL against E. faecalis, S. aureus, B. cereus, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans, respectively) and excellent larvicidal activity (24-hour 50% lethal concentration = 19.0, 24.7, and 48.1 μg/mL against A. aegypti, A. albopictus, and C. quinquefasciatus, respectively).
Preferences for Sexually Dimorphic Body Characteristics Revealed in a Large Sample of Speed Daters
Authors: Sidari Morgan J. , Lee Anthony J. , Murphy Sean C. , Sherlock James M. , Dixson Barnaby J. W. , Zietsch Brendan P.
Published: April 2020

While hundreds of studies have investigated the indices that make up attractive body shapes, these studies were based on preferences measured in the laboratory using pictorial stimuli. Whether these preferences translate into real-time, face-to-face evaluations of potential partners is unclear. Here, 539 (275 female) participants in 75 laboratory-based sessions had their body dimensions measured before engaging in round-robin speed dates. After each date, they rated each other’s body, face, personality, and overall attractiveness and noted whether they would go on a date with the partner. Women with smaller waists and lower waist-to-hip ratios were found most attractive, and men with broader shoulders and higher shoulder-to-waist (or hips) ratios were found most attractive. Taller individuals were preferred by both sexes. Our results show that body dimensions associated with greater health, reproductive value (in women), and formidability (in men) influence face-to-face evaluations of attractiveness, consistent with a role of intersexual selection in shaping human bodies.
The Blessings of Social-Oriented Virtues: Interpersonal Character Strengths Are Linked to Increased Life Satisfaction and Academic Success Among Filipino High School Students
Authors: Datu Jesus Alfonso D. , Bernardo Allan B. I.
Published: April 2020

Some studies have shown that character strengths positively predicted optimal performance and well-being in Western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic (WEIRD) societies which may hold limited generalizability to individuals in non-WEIRD contexts. This prospective study examined the association of selected interpersonal character strengths (i.e., fairness, teamwork, leadership, forgiveness, and kindness) with life satisfaction, teacher-reported academic engagement, Mathematics achievement, English achievement, and overall academic achievement among Filipino high school students enrolled in a public high school in the Philippines ( M age = 14.33). There was a 2-month interval between Time 1 and Time 2 data collection. Results indicate that whereas fairness and kindness demonstrated stronger magnitudes of associations with subsequent life satisfaction, academic engagement, and achievement, teamwork and forgiveness had positive and moderate intensity of relationships to such outcomes. Compared to other interpersonal strengths, leadership showed weaker correlations with life satisfaction and achievement outcomes. Results allude to the benefits associated with interpersonal positive virtues in a non-WEIRD context.
Antibiotic resistance in urinary tract infections: A re-visit after five years and experience over two sites
Authors: Baines Georgina , Banjoko Adeolu , Brair Amalia , Gray Jim , Desai Nergish , Cardozo Linda , Toozs-Hobson Philip
Published: April 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to repeat a previous audit, performed from 2009 to 2013, for the cohort of 2018 to determine how the resistance rates in urinary pathogens in women over 18 years of age have changed. A secondary aim of the study was to use resistance data from a different UK hospital in the same year to compare differences in resistance rates across different geographic locations

Study design

This was a retrospective study of all positive urine cultures grown from female patients attending two different hospitals in the year 2018. Resistance patterns were analysed.

Results

The resistance rate to co-amoxiclav continues to increase with amoxicillin retaining high resistance patterns. There are some significant differences in resistance patterns between the different locations.

Conclusion

Antimicrobial resistance is a significant problem in the UK particularly in antibiotics used to treat UTI. These patterns can vary across different geographical locations and over time; therefore, up-to-date knowledge of local anti-biotic resistance is essential when making an appropriate prescription choice.
Financial Implications for the Treatment of Medicare Patients With Isolated Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures: Disproportionate Losses Among Healthier Patients
Authors: Kelly Brandon , Parikh Harsh R. , McCreary Dylan L. , McMillan Logan , Horst Patrick K. , Cunningham Brian P.
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

With an aging American public, the rising incidence of geriatric hip fractures provides a significant impact on the financial sustainability for hospitals. To date, there is little research comparing reimbursement to hospital costs for geriatric hip fracture treatment. The purpose of this study is to compare hospital costs to reimbursement for patients treated surgically with an isolated intertrochanteric femur fracture, insured by the Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review at an urban, academic, level 1 trauma center was conducted for 287 CMS-insured intertrochanteric femur fracture patients between 2013 and 2017. The total cost of care was determined using our hospital’s cost accounting system. The total reimbursement was determined from the CMS inpatient prospective payment system, based upon the Medical-Severity Diagnosis-Related Grouping (MS-DRG).

Results:

In this patient population, the average CMS reimbursement was US$19 049 ± 7221 and the average cost of care was US$19 822 ± 8078. This yielded a net deficit of US$773/patient and US$220 417 in total. The average reimbursement and cost for the less comorbid patients (MS-DRG weight < 2.5, n = 215) was US$16 198 ± 3983 and US$17 764 ± 5628, respectively, yielding an average net deficit of US$1566/patient. For the more comorbid patients (MS-DRG weight > 2.5, n = 72) the mean reimbursement and cost were US$27 796 ± 3944 and US$26 180 ± 10 880, respectively, yielding an average net profit of US$1616/patient.

Discussion:

There are disproportionate average losses in healthier patients undergoing surgical treatment of intertrochanteric femur fractures at our institution. A deficit in less comorbid patients indicates a discontinuity of inpatient health-care costs with MS-DRG-weighted reimbursement in the setting of geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures.

Conclusions:

To maintain hospitals’ financial sustainability and health-care accessibility; costing and reimbursement models need adjusting to properly compensate the treatment of geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic level IV.
Vascular permeability in the fibrotic lung
Authors: Probst Clemens K. , Montesi Sydney B. , Medoff Benjamin D. , Shea Barry S. , Knipe Rachel S.
Published: April 2020

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is thought to result from aberrant tissue repair processes in response to chronic or repetitive lung injury. The origin and nature of the injury, as well as its cellular and molecular targets, are likely heterogeneous, which complicates accurate pre-clinical modelling of the disease and makes therapeutic targeting a challenge. Efforts are underway to identify central pathways in fibrogenesis which may allow targeting of aberrant repair processes regardless of the initial injury stimulus. Dysregulated endothelial permeability and vascular leak have long been studied for their role in acute lung injury and repair. Evidence that these processes are of importance to the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung disease is growing. Endothelial permeability is increased in non-fibrosing lung diseases, but it resolves in a self-limited fashion in conditions such as bacterial pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. In progressive fibrosing diseases such as IPF, permeability appears to persist, however, and may also predict mortality. In this hypothesis-generating review, we summarise available data on the role of endothelial permeability in IPF and focus on the deleterious consequences of sustained endothelial hyperpermeability in response to and during pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. We propose that persistent permeability and vascular leak in the lung have the potential to establish and amplify the pro-fibrotic environment. Therapeutic interventions aimed at recognising and “plugging” the leak may therefore be of significant benefit for preventing the transition from lung injury to fibrosis and should be areas for future research.
Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid lymphocytosis in chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Adderley Nicola , Humphreys Christopher J. , Barnes Hayley , Ley Brett , Premji Zahra A. , Johannson Kerri A.
Published: April 2020

Background

The role of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) lymphocyte percentage in diagnosing chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (CHP) is unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) lymphocyte percentage in the diagnosis of CHP.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library from inception to August 2019. Individual patient data were obtained to test performance characteristics of BAL lymphocyte percentage at different thresholds. Random-effects models were used for pooled estimates, with comparisons made between CHP and non-CHP interstitial lung diseases (ILDs).

Results

Fifty-three studies were included in the systematic review and 42 in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate for BAL lymphocyte percentage was 42.8% (95% CI 37.7–47.8, I2=95.3%) in CHP, 10.0% (95% CI 6.9–13.1, I2=91.2%) in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), 23.1% (95% CI 3.0–43.2, I2=85.2%) in non-IPF idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP), 23.4% (95% CI 11.0–35.9, I2=45.7%) in connective-tissue disease associated ILD (CTD-ILD) and 31.2% (95% CI 17.6–44.8, I2=95.2%) in sarcoidosis. Results differed between CHP and IPF (p<0.0001), non-IPF IIP (p=0.0309) or CTD-ILD (p=0.0824), but not between CHP and sarcoidosis (p=0.0966). Using individual patient data from eight studies, a lymphocyte percentage threshold of >20% provided a sensitivity of 68.1% and a specificity of 64.8% for CHP. Higher thresholds provided lower sensitivity with higher specificity. Older age and ever having smoked were associated with lower lymphocyte percentage in CHP.

Conclusions

BAL lymphocyte percentage is higher in CHP compared to IPF and other IIPs, with higher thresholds providing improved specificity at the cost of sensitivity. However, the parent studies are at risk of incorporation bias and prospective studies should evaluate the additive discriminate value of BAL lymphocyte percentage to accurately diagnose CHP.
Inhaled aztreonam improves symptoms of cough and sputum production in patients with bronchiectasis: apost hocanalysis of the AIR-BX studies
Authors: Crichton Megan L. , Lonergan Mike , Barker Alan F. , Sibila Oriol , Goeminne Pieter , Shoemark Amelia , Chalmers James D.
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Inhaled antibiotics may improve symptom scores, but it is not known which specific symptoms improve with therapy. Item-level analysis of questionnaire data may allow us to identify which specific symptoms respond best to treatment.

Methods

Post hocanalysis of the AIR-BX1 studies and two trials of inhaled aztreonamversusplacebo in bronchiectasis. Individual items from the quality of life bronchiectasis (QOL-B) respiratory symptom scale, were extracted as representing severity of nine distinct symptoms. Generalised linear models were used to evaluate changes in symptoms with treatmentversusplacebo from baseline to end of first on-treatment cycle and mixed models were used to evaluate changes across the full 16-week trial.

Results

Aztreonam improved cough (difference 0.22, 95% CI 0.08–0.37; p=0.002), sputum production (0.30, 95% CI 0.15–0.44; p<0.0001) and sputum colour (0.29, 95% CI 0.15–0.43; p<0.0001)versusplacebo equating to a 20% improvement in cough and 25% improvement in sputum production and colour. Similar results were observed for cough, sputum production and sputum purulence across the trial duration (all p<0.05). Patients with higher sputum production and sputum colour scores had a greater response on the overall QOL-B (difference 4.82, 95% CI 1.12–8.53; p=0.011 for sputum production and 5.02, 95% CI 1.19–8.86; p=0.01 for sputum colour). In contrast, treating patients who had lower levels of bronchitic symptoms resulted in shorter time to next exacerbation (hazard ratio 1.83, 95% CI 1.02–3.28; p=0.042).

Conclusion

Baseline bronchitic symptoms predict response to inhaled aztreonam in bronchiectasis. More sensitive tools to measure bronchitic symptoms may be useful to better identify inhaled antibiotic responders and to evaluate patient response to treatment.
Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiometabolic complications in obstructive sleep apnoea: towards personalised treatment approaches
Authors: Ryan Silke , Cummins Eoin P. , Farre Ramon , Gileles-Hillel Alex , Jun Jonathan C. , Oster Henrik , Pepin Jean-Louis , Ray David W. , Reutrakul Sirimon , Sanchez-de-la-Torre Manuel , Tamisier Renaud , Almendros Isaac
Published: April 2020

In January 2019, a European Respiratory Society research seminar entitled “Targeting the detrimental effects of sleep disturbances and disorders” was held in Dublin, Ireland. It provided the opportunity to critically review the current evidence of pathophysiological responses of sleep disturbances, such as sleep deprivation, sleep fragmentation or circadian misalignment and of abnormalities in physiological gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, which occur frequently in respiratory conditions during sleep. A specific emphasis of the seminar was placed on the evaluation of the current state of knowledge of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Identification of the detailed mechanisms of these processes is of major importance to the field and this seminar offered an ideal platform to exchange knowledge, and to discuss pitfalls of current models and the design of future collaborative studies. In addition, we debated the limitations of current treatment strategies for cardiometabolic complications in OSA and discussed potentially valuable alternative approaches.
Real-life data on the efficacy and safety of erenumab in the Abruzzo region, central Italy
Authors: Ornello Raffaele , Casalena Alfonsina , Frattale Ilaria , Gabriele Amleto , Affaitati Giannapia , Giamberardino Maria Adele , Assetta Maurizio , Maddestra Maurizio , Marzoli Fabio , Viola Stefano , Cerone Davide , Marini Carmine , Pistoia Francesca , Sacco Simona
Published: April 2020

Background

We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of erenumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody inhibiting the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRPr), for the prevention of migraine in a real-life setting.

Main body

We included in our observational study all patients with episodic or chronic migraine treated with erenumab during the year 2019 in the Abruzzo region, central Italy, and with a 6-month follow-up. We included 89 patients; 76 (85.4%) received 6 doses of erenumab, 11 (12.4%) autonomously withdrew the drug due to perceived inefficacy, and 2 (2.2%) due to adverse events. Seventy-eight patients (87.6%) were female, with a mean age of 46.8 ± 11.2 years; 84 (94.4%) had chronic migraine, and 64 (71.9%) medication overuse. All patients had ≥2 prior preventive treatment failures. Fifty-three patients (69.7%) had a 50% decrease in monthly migraine days (MMDs) within the first three doses; 46 (71.9%) of 64 patients withdrew medication overuse. In the 76 patients who completed a 6-dose treatment, erenumab decreased median MMDs from 19 (interquartile range [IQR] 12–27.5) to 4 (IQR 2–9.5; P < 0.001), median monthly days of analgesic use from 10 (IQR 4.5–20) to 2 IQR 0–5; P < 0.001), and median monthly days of triptan use from 5 (IQR 0–15.5) to 1 (IQR 0–4; P < 0.001). We recorded 27 adverse events in 20 (22.5%) patients, the most common being constipation (13.5%). One adverse event, i.e. allergic reaction, led to treatment discontinuation in one patient.

Conclusions

Our real-life data confirm the efficacy and tolerability of erenumab for the prevention of migraine in a difficult-to-treat population of patients with a high prevalence of chronic migraine and medication overuse.
Putting RFMix and ADMIXTURE to the test in a complex admixed population
Authors: Uren Caitlin , Hoal Eileen G. , Möller Marlo
Published: April 2020

Background

Global and local ancestry inference in admixed human populations can be performed using computational tools implementing distinct algorithms. The development and resulting accuracy of these tools has been tested largely on populations with relatively straightforward admixture histories but little is known about how well they perform in more complex admixture scenarios.

Results

Using simulations, we show that RFMix outperforms ADMIXTURE in determining global ancestry proportions even in a complex 5-way admixed population, in addition to assigning local ancestry with an accuracy of 89%. The ability of RFMix to determine global and local ancestry to a high degree of accuracy, particularly in admixed populations provides the opportunity for more accurate association analyses.

Conclusion

This study highlights the utility of the extension of computational tools to become more compatible to genetically structured populations, as well as the need to expand the sampling of diverse world-wide populations. This is particularly noteworthy as modern-day societies are becoming increasingly genetically complex and some genetic tools and commonly used ancestral populations are less appropriate. Based on these caveats and the results presented here, we suggest that RFMix be used for both global and local ancestry estimation in world-wide complex admixture scenarios particularly when including these estimates in association studies.
Stable intronic sequence RNAs (sisRNAs) are selected regions in introns with distinct properties
Authors: Jin Jing , He Ximiao , Silva Elena
Published: April 2020

Background

Stable introns and intronic fragments make up the largest population of RNA in the oocyte nucleus of the frog Xenopus tropicalis. These stable intronic sequence RNAs (sisRNAs) persist through the onset of zygotic transcription when synchronous cell division has ended, and the developing embryo consists of approximately 8000 cells. Despite their abundance, the sequence properties and biological function of sisRNAs are just beginning to be understood.

Results

To characterize this population of non-coding RNA, we identified all of the sisRNAs in the X. tropicalis oocyte nucleus using published high-throughput RNA sequencing data. Our analysis revealed that sisRNAs, have an average length of ~ 360 nt, are widely expressed from genes with multiple introns, and are derived from specific regions of introns that are GC and TG rich, while CpG poor. They are enriched in introns at both ends of transcripts but preferentially at the 3′ end. The consensus binding sites of specific transcription factors such as Stat3 are enriched in sisRNAs, suggesting an association between sisRNAs and transcription factors involved in early development. Evolutionary conservation analysis of sisRNA sequences in seven vertebrate genomes indicates that sisRNAs are as conserved as other parts of introns, but much less conserved than exons.

Conclusion

In total, our results indicate sisRNAs are selected intron regions with distinct properties and may play a role in gene expression regulation.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the NAC transcription factor family in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) during aluminum stress
Authors: Jin Jian Feng , Wang Zhan Qi , He Qi Yu , Wang Jia Yi , Li Peng Fei , Xu Ji Ming , Zheng Shao Jian , Fan Wei , Yang Jian Li
Published: April 2020

Background

The family of NAC proteins (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) represent a class of large plant-specific transcription factors. However, identification and functional surveys of NAC genes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) remain unstudied, despite the tomato genome being decoded for several years. This study aims to identify the NAC gene family and investigate their potential roles in responding to Al stress.

Results

Ninety-three NAC genes were identified and named in accordance with their chromosome location. Phylogenetic analysis found SlNACs are broadly distributed in 5 groups. Gene expression analysis showed that SlNACs had different expression levels in various tissues and at different fruit development stages. Cycloheximide treatment and qRT-PCR analysis indicated that SlNACs may aid regulation of tomato in response to Al stress, 19 of which were significantly up- or down-regulated in roots of tomato following Al stress.

Conclusion

This work establishes a knowledge base for further studies on biological functions of SlNACs in tomato and will aid in improving agricultural traits of tomato in the future.
Gene expression responses to anti-tuberculous drugs in a whole blood model
Authors: Kwan Philip Kam Weng , Lin Wenwei , Naim Ahmad Nazri Mohamed , Periaswamy Balamurugan , De Sessions Paola Florez , Hibberd Martin L. , Paton Nicholas I.
Published: April 2020

Background

There is a need for better tools to evaluate new or repurposed TB drugs. The whole blood bactericidal activity (WBA) assay has been advocated for this purpose. We investigated whether transcriptional responses in the WBA assay resemble TB responses in vivo, and whether the approach might additionally reveal mechanisms of action.

Results

1422 of 1798 (79%) of differentially expressed genes in WBA incubated with the standard combination of rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol were also expressed in sputum (P < 0.0001) obtained from patients taking the same combination of drugs; these comprised well-established treatment-response genes. Gene expression profiles in WBA incubated with the standard drugs individually, or with moxifloxacin or faropenem (with amoxicillin and clavulanic acid) clustered by individual drug exposure. Distinct pathways were detected for individual drugs, although only with isoniazid did these relate to known mechanisms of drug action.

Conclusions

Substantial agreement between whole blood cultures and sputum and the ability to differentiate individual drugs suggest that transcriptomics may add value to the whole blood assay for evaluating new TB drugs.
When gratitude and cooperation between friends affect inter-brain connectivity for EEG
Authors: Balconi Michela , Fronda Giulia , Vanutelli Maria Elide
Published: April 2020

Background

Recently several studies in the psychological and social field have investigated the social function of gift exchange as a useful way for the consolidation of interpersonal and social relationships and the implementation of prosocial behaviors. Specifically, the present research wanted to explore if gift exchange, increased emotional sharing, gratitude and interpersonal cooperation, leading to an improvement in cognitive and behavioral performance. In this regard, neural connectivity and cognitive performance of 14 pairs of friends were recorded during the development of a joint attention task that involved a gift exchange at the beginning or halfway through the task. The moment of gift exchange was randomized within the pairs: for seven couples, it happened at task beginning, for the remaining seven later. Individuals’ simultaneous brain activity was recorded through the use of two electroencephalograms (EEG) systems that were used in hyperscanning.

Results

The results showed that after gift exchange there was an improvement in behavioral performance in terms of accuracy. For what concerns EEG, instead, an increase of delta and theta activation was observed in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) when gift exchange occurred at the beginning of the task. Furthermore, an increase in neural connectivity for delta and theta bands was observed.

Conclusion

The present research provides a significant contribution to the exploration of the factors contributing to the strengthening of social bonds, increasing cooperation, gratitude and prosocial behavior.
Influence of measurement principle on total hemoglobin value
Authors: Hayashi Keisuke , Hitosugi Takashi , Kawakubo Yoshifumi , Kitamoto Norihisa , Yokoyama Takeshi
Published: April 2020

Background

Total hemoglobin (tHb) measurement is indispensable for determining the patient’s condition (hemorrhagic vs. ischemic) and need for blood transfusion. Conductivity- and absorbance-based measurement methods are used for blood gas analysis of tHb. For conductivity-based measurement, tHb is calculated after converting blood conductivity into a hematocrit value, whereas absorbance measurement is based on light absorbance after red blood cell hemolysis. Due to changes in plasma electrolytes and hemolysis, there is a possibility that conductivity- and absorbance-based measurement methods may cause a difference in tHb.

Methods

In this study, test samples with controlled electrolyte changes and hemolysis were created by adding sodium chloride, distilled water or hemolytic blood to blood samples collected from healthy volunteers, and tHb values were compared between both methods.

Results

Conductivity-based measurement revealed reduced tHb value (from 15.49 to 13.05 g/dl) following the addition of 10% sodium chloride, which was also reduced by the addition of hemolysate. Conversely, the addition of distilled water significantly increased tHb value than the expected value. In the absorbance method, there was no significant change in tHb value due to electrolyte change or hemolysis.

Conclusions

We have to recognize unexpected conductivity changes occur at all times when tHb is measured via conductivity- and absorbance-based measurement methods. The absorbance method should be used when measuring tHb in patients with expected blood conductivity changes. However, when using this method, the added contribution of hemoglobin from hemolytic erythrocytes lacking oxygen carrying capacity must be considered. We recognize that discrepancy can occur between conductivity- and absorbance-based measurement methods when tHb is measured.
Correlation between UGT1A1 gene polymorphism and irinotecan chemotherapy in metastatic colorectal cancer: a study from Guangxi Zhuang
Authors: Chen Shaojun , Hua Li , Feng Chengjun , Mo Qia , Wei Mengzhuan , Shen Yongqi , Lin Zhan , Li Guisheng , Xu Junyi , Guo Chengxian , Huang Haixin
Published: April 2020

Background

There are obviously ethnic differences between the UGT1A1 gene polymorphisms. Due to the difference of genetic background and environment, the treatment with colorectal cancer patients of Guangxi Zhuang should not completely follow the Euramerican or Chinese han patients. The study aimed to explore the correlation of UGT1A1 gene polymorphism of Guangxi Zhuang metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) with irinotecan -based chemotherapy, in order to develop an individualized irinotecan regimen for mCRC patients of Guangxi Zhuang.

Methods

From June 2013 and June 2015, a total of 406 patients of Guangxi who were histologically diagnosed as metastatic colorectal cancer with 102 patients of this cohort with three generations of Zhuang, and 86 patients that conformed to inclusion and exclusion criteria were competitively enrolled. The distribution of UGT1A1 gene polymorphism was analyzed-retrospectively in all patients. Pyrosequencing method was used to detect the UGT1A1*28 and*6 gene polymorphism in the 86 Guangxi Zhuang mCRC patients. After first-line chemotherapy with FOLFIRI regimen, the relationship between gene polymorphism of UGT1A1 and adverse reactions, and efficacy of Irinotecan were analyzed with χ2 test and Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

UGT1A1*28 wild-type (TA6/6), heterozygous mutant (TA6/7) and homozygous mutant (TA7/7) accounted for 69.8, 30.2 and 0%, respectively. UGT1A1*6 wild type (G/G), heterozygous mutation type (G/A) and homozygous mutant (A/A) accounted for 76.7%, 20.9 and 2.3%, respectively. UGT1A1*28 TA6/7 type could increase the risk of grade 3~4 diarrhea (p = 0.027), which did not increase the risk of grade 3~4 neutropenia (p = 0.092). UGT1A1*6G/A and A/A type could increase the risk of grade 3~4 diarrhea and neutropenia (p = 0.001; p = 0.017). After chemotherapy with FOLFIRI, there was no significant difference in response rate (RR) (p = 0.729; p = 0.745) or in median progression-free survival (mPFS) between the wild-type, mutant treatment of UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*6 (7.0 m vs 7.4 m, p = 0.427; 6.9 m vs 7.0 m p = 0.408).

Conclusions

The distribution of UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*6 gene polymorphism in Guangxi Zhuang patients were differed from the existing reported of European people and Chinese Han population. The UGT1A1 gene polymorphism with irinotecan chemotherapy-associated diarrhea and neutropenia were closely related. There was no significant association between UGT1A1 gene polymorphism and therapeutic efficacy of irinotecan.