bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracking of total sedentary time and sedentary patterns in youth: a pooled analysis using the International Children’s Accelerometry Database (ICAD)
Authors:   On behalf of the International Children’s Accelerometry Database (ICAD) Collaborators, van Ekris Evi , Wijndaele Katrien , Altenburg Teatske M. , Atkin Andrew J. , Twisk Jos , Andersen Lars B. , Janz Kathleen F. , Froberg Karsten , Northstone Kate , Page Angie S. , Sardinha Luis B. , van Sluijs Esther M. F. , Chinapaw Mai
Published: May 2020

Background

To gain more understanding of the potential health effects of sedentary time, knowledge is required about the accumulation and longitudinal development of young people’s sedentary time. This study examined tracking of young peoples’ total and prolonged sedentary time as well as their day-to-day variation using the International Children’s Accelerometry Database.

Methods

Longitudinal accelerometer data of 5991 children (aged 4-17y) was used from eight studies in five countries. Children were included if they provided valid (≥8 h/day) accelerometer data on ≥4 days, including ≥1 weekend day, at both baseline and follow-up (average follow-up: 2.7y; range 0.7–8.2). Tracking of total and prolonged (i.e. ≥10-min bouts) sedentary time was examined using multilevel modelling to adjust for clustering of observations, with baseline levels of sedentary time as predictor and follow-up levels as outcome. Standardized regression coefficients were interpreted as tracking coefficients (low: < 0.3; moderate: 0.3–0.6; high: > 0.6).

Results

Average total sedentary time at study level ranged from 246 to 387 min/day at baseline and increased annually by 21.4 min/day (95% confidence interval [19.6–23.0]) on average. This increase consisted almost entirely of prolonged sedentary time (20.9 min/day [19.2–22.7]). Total (standardized regression coefficient (B) = 0.48 [0.45–0.50]) and prolonged sedentary time (B = 0.43 [0.41–0.45]) tracked moderately. Tracking of day-to-day variation in total (B = 0.04 [0.02–0.07]) and prolonged (B = 0.07 [0.04–0.09]) sedentary time was low.

Conclusion

Young people with high levels of sedentary time are likely to remain among the people with highest sedentary time as they grow older. Day-to-day variation in total and prolonged sedentary time, however, was rather variable over time.
Investigating longitudinal context-specific physical activity patterns in transition from primary to secondary school using accelerometers, GPS, and GIS
Authors: Remmers Teun , Van Kann Dave , Kremers Stef , Ettema Dick , de Vries Sanne I. , Vos Steven , Thijs Carel
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Previous longitudinal studies indicate that physical activity (PA) significantly declines from primary-to secondary school, and report both changes in individual and environmental determinants of PA. In order to understand this transition and to prevent this negative trend, it is important to gather contextually rich data on possible mechanisms that drive this decline. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate changes of PA patterns in transition between primary and secondary school, and to add domain-specific insights of how, where, and when these changes occur.

Methods

In total, 175 children participated in a 7-day accelerometer- and Global Positioning System (GPS) protocol at their last year of primary and their first year of secondary school. GPS data-points were overlaid with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) data using ArcGIS 10.1 software. Based on the GPS locations of individual data-points, we identified child’s PA at home, school, local sports grounds, shopping centers, and other locations. Also, trips in active and passive transport were identified according to previously validated GPS speed-algorithms. Longitudinal multi-level linear mixed models were fitted adjusting for age, gender, meteorological circumstances, and the nested structure of days within children and children within schools. Outcome measures were minutes spent in light PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA, specified for the time-segments before school, during school, after school and weekend days.

Results

Total PA significantly declined from primary to secondary school. Although transport-related PA increased before- and during school, decreases were found for especially afterschool time spent at sports grounds and transport-related PA during weekends.

Conclusions

This is the first study that demonstrated longitudinal changes of context- and domain-specific PA patterns in transition between primary and secondary school, based on device-assessed PA. Given the importance of this transition-period for the development of long-term PA patterns, results from this study warrant the development of evidence-based PA programs in this transition period, while acknowledging the integrative role of schools, parents, and afterschool sports providers. More specifically, the results underline the need to increase children’s PA levels in primary schools, promote afterschool PA at secondary schools, and to prevent the drop-out in sports participation at secondary schools.
West Nile virus in Europe: after action reviews of preparedness and response to the 2018 transmission season in Italy, Slovenia, Serbia and Greece
Authors: Riccardo Flavia , Bolici Francesco , Fafangel Mario , Jovanovic Verica , Socan Maja , Klepac Petra , Plavsa Dragana , Vasic Milena , Bella Antonino , Diana Gabriele , Rosi Luca , Pezzotti Patrizio , Andrianou Xanthi D. , Di Luca Marco , Venturi Giulietta , Maraglino Francesco , Pervanidou Danai , Cenciarelli Orlando , Baka Agoritsa , Young Johanna , Bakonyi Tamas , Rezza Giovanni , Suk Jonathan E.
Published: May 2020

Background

After Action Reviews (AAR) with a One Health perspective were performed in Slovenia, Italy, Serbia and Greece following a severe West Nile virus (WNV) transmission season in 2018. A protocol combining traditional techniques and organizational process analysis was developed and then implemented in each country.

Results

In 2018, response to the unusually intense transmission season of WNV in Slovenia, Italy, Serbia and Greece took place through routine response mechanisms. None of the four countries declared a national or subnational emergency. We found a very strong consensus on the strengths identified in responding to this event. All countries indicated the availability of One Health Plans for surveillance and response; very high laboratory diagnostic capacity in the human, veterinary and entomology sectors and strong inter-sectoral collaboration with strong commitment of engaged institutions as critical in the management of the event. Finally, countries implementing One Health surveillance for WNV (in terms of early warning and early activation of prevention measures) consistently reported a positive impact on their activities, in particular when combining mosquito and bird surveillance with surveillance of cases in humans and equids. Recurring priority areas for improvement included: increasing knowledge on vector-control measures, ensuring the sustainability of vector monitoring and surveillance, and improving capacity to manage media pressure.

Conclusions

The AARs presented here demonstrate the benefit of cross-sectoral and cross-disciplinary approaches to preparedness for West Nile virus outbreaks in Europe. In the coming years, priorities include fostering and strengthening arrangements that: enable coordinated One Health surveillance and response during WNV transmission seasons; ensure adequate laboratory capacities; strengthen risk communication; and fund longer-term research to address the knowledge gaps identified in this study.
Successful percutaneous transvenous retrieval of intravascular fractured port catheter: a single center experience
Authors: Li Yahua , Chen Jianjian , Li Zhaonan , Lu Huibin , Ren Kewei , Ren Jianzhuang , Han Xinwei
Published: May 2020

Background

Fractured catheter as a foreign body in situ is a rare complication after port catheter placement. We report a single center’s experience on percutaneous transvenous retrieval of intravascular fractured port catheter and treatment techniques.

Methods

Patients undergoing percutaneous transvenous retrieval of intravascular fractured port catheter from Jan 2010 to Dec 2018 were retrospectively collected. A total of 10 patients (8 females and 2 males) were enrolled in this study. Procedures were performed within 1 day after diagnosis. Two methods of retrieval were considered, direct retrieval by gooseneck snare and guide wire as media to retrieve were used in the procedure.

Results

All the fractured catheters in 10 patients were successfully retrieval by 2 methods, direct retrieval by gooseneck snare(n = 6) and guide wire as media of retrieval(n = 4). The time interval between port catheter implantation and discovery of catheter fracture was 36.50 ± 42.99(ranged 1 to 146) days. The operation time was 24.10 ± 8.32(ranged 10 to 36) minutes. No immediate procedure related or 1 month follow-up complications occurred in all the 10 patients.

Conclusion

Percutaneous transvenous retrieval of intravascular fractured port catheter is a simple and safe procedure, which maybe recommended as the first choice for patients with fractured port catheter in situ.
Adequate timing and constant supervision are the keys for successful implementation of levothyroxine or levothyroxine/paracetamol absorption test
Authors: Lewandowski Krzysztof C. , Dąbrowska Katarzyna , Basińska-Lewandowska Magdalena , Bolanowski Marek , Ruchała Marek , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: May 2020

Background

Levothyroxine (LT4) pseudomalabsorption due to medication non-adherence results in significant costs for Health Service. High dose LT4 or LT4/paracetamol absorption test is used in such cases. Hence, establishment of an optimal test protocol and timing of sample collection is of utmost importance.

Case presentation

A 34-year old woman was admitted to our Department because of severe hypothyroidism [on admission thyrotropin (TSH) > 100 μIU/ml, free thyroxine (FT4) 0.13 ng/dl (ref. range 0.93–1.7)] despite apparently taking 1000 μg of LT4 a day. Autoimmune hypothyroidism had been diagnosed 4 years before during post-partum thyroiditis. Subsequently, it was not possible to control her hypothyroidism despite several admissions to two University Hospitals and despite vehement denial of compliance problems. There was no evidence of coeliac disease or other malabsorption problems, though gluten-free and lactose-free diet was empirically instigated without success. A combined paracetamol (1000 mg)/LT4 (1000 μg) absorption test was performed in one of these Hospitals. This showed good paracetamol absorption (from < 2 μg/ml to 14.11 μg/ml at 120 min), with inadequate LT4 absorption (FT4 increase from 5.95 pmol/l to 9.92 pmol/l at 0 and 120 min respectively). About 2 years prior to admission to our Department the patient was treated with escalating doses of levothyroxine [up to 3000 μg of T4 and 40 μg of triiodothyronine (T3) daily] without significant impact on TSH (still > 75 μIU/ml, and FT4 still below reference range).

After admission to our Department we performed a 2500 μg LT4 absorption test with controlled ingestion of crushed tablets, strict patient monitoring and sampling at 30 min intervals. We observed a quick and striking increase in FT4 from 0.13 to 0.46, 1.78, 3.05 and 3.81 ng/dl, at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min, respectively. Her TSH concentration decreased to 13.77 μIU/ml within 4 days. When informed, that we had managed to “overcome” her absorption problems, she discharged herself against medical advice and declined psychiatric consultation.

Conclusions

Adequate patient supervision and frequent sampling (e.g. every 30 min for 210 min) is the key for successful implementation of LT4 absorption test. Paracetamol coadministration appears superfluous in such cases.
Gene modification strategies for next-generation CAR T cells against solid cancers
Authors: Tian Yonggui , Li Yilu , Shao Yupei , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2020

Immunotherapies have become the backbone of cancer treatment. Among them, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have demonstrated great success in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, CAR T therapy against solid tumors is less effective. Antigen targeting; an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME); and the infiltration, proliferation, and persistence of CAR T cells are the predominant barriers preventing the extension of CAR T therapy to solid tumors. To circumvent these obstacles, the next-generation CAR T cells will require more potent antitumor properties, which can be achieved by gene-editing technology. In this review, we summarize innovative strategies to enhance CAR T cell function by improving target identification, persistence, trafficking, and overcoming the suppressive TME. The construction of multi-target CAR T cells improves antigen recognition and reduces immune escape. Enhancing CAR T cell proliferation and persistence can be achieved by optimizing costimulatory signals and overexpressing cytokines. CAR T cells equipped with chemokines or chemokine receptors help overcome their poor homing to tumor sites. Strategies like knocking out immune checkpoint molecules, incorporating dominant negative receptors, and chimeric switch receptors can favor the depletion or reversal of negative T cell regulators in the TME.
Severe diffuse alveolar hemorrhage related to autoimmune disease: a multicenter study
Authors: Mirouse Adrien , Parrot Antoine , Audigier Vincent , Demoule Alexandre , Mayaux Julien , Géri Guillaume , Mariotte Eric , Bréchot Nicolas , de Prost Nicolas , Vautier Mathieu , Neuville Mathilde , Bigé Naïke , de Montmollin Etienne , Cacoub Patrice , Resche-Rigon Matthieu , Cadranel Jacques , Saadoun David
Published: May 2020

Background

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) occurs during the course of autoimmune disease and may be life threatening. The objective was to assess characteristics and prognosis factors of DAH who required intensive care unit (ICU) admission in patients with autoimmune diseases.

Methods

French multicenter retrospective study including patients presenting DAH related to autoimmune diseases requiring ICU admission from 2000 to 2016.

Results

One hundred four patients (54% of men) with median age of 56 [32–68] years were included with 79 (76%) systemic vasculitis and 25 (24%) connective tissue disorders. All patients received steroids, and 72 (69%), 12 (11.5%), and 57 (55%) patients had cyclophosphamide, rituximab, and plasma exchanges, respectively. During ICU stay, 52 (50%), 36 (35%), and 55 (53%) patients required mechanical ventilation, vasopressor use, and renal replacement therapy, respectively. Factors associated with mechanical ventilation weaning were age (HR [95%CI] 0.97 [0.96–0.99] per 10 years, p < 0.0001), vasculitis-related DAH (0.52 [0.27–0.98], p = 0.04), and time from dyspnea onset to ICU admission (0.99 [0.99–1] per day, p = 0.03). ICU mortality was 15%. Factors associated with alive status at ICU discharge were chronic cardiac failure (HR [95%CI] 0.37 [0.15–0.94], p = 0.04), antiphospholipid syndrome-related DAH (3.17 [1.89–5.32], p < 0.0001), SAPS II (0.98 [0.97–0.99], p = 0.007), and oxygen flow at ICU admission (0.95 [0.91–0.99] per liter/min, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

DAH in autoimmune diseases is a life-threatening complication which requires mechanical ventilation in half of the cases admitted to ICU.
RNA structural dynamics regulate early embryogenesis through controlling transcriptome fate and function
Authors: Shi Boyang , Zhang Jinsong , Heng Jian , Gong Jing , Zhang Ting , Li Pan , Sun Bao-Fa , Yang Ying , Zhang Ning , Zhao Yong-Liang , Wang Hai-Lin , Liu Feng , Zhang Qiangfeng Cliff , Yang Yun-Gui
Published: May 2020

Background

Vertebrate early embryogenesis is initially directed by a set of maternal RNAs and proteins, yet the mechanisms controlling this program remain largely unknown. Recent transcriptome-wide studies on RNA structure have revealed its pervasive and crucial roles in RNA processing and functions, but whether and how RNA structure regulates the fate of the maternal transcriptome have yet to be determined.

Results

Here we establish the global map of four nucleotide-based mRNA structures by icSHAPE during zebrafish early embryogenesis. Strikingly, we observe that RNA structurally variable regions are enriched in the 3′ UTR and contain cis-regulatory elements important for maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT). We find that the RNA-binding protein Elavl1a stabilizes maternal mRNAs by binding to the cis-elements. Conversely, RNA structure formation suppresses Elavl1a’s binding leading to the decay of its maternal targets.

Conclusions

Our study finds that RNA structurally variable regions are enriched in mRNA 3′ UTRs and contain cis-regulatory elements during zebrafish early embryogenesis. We reveal that Elavl1a regulates maternal RNA stability in an RNA structure-dependent fashion. Overall, our findings reveal a broad and fundamental role of RNA structure-based regulation in vertebrate early embryogenesis.
tappAS: a comprehensive computational framework for the analysis of the functional impact of differential splicing
Authors: de la Fuente Lorena , Arzalluz-Luque Ángeles , Tardáguila Manuel , del Risco Héctor , Martí Cristina , Tarazona Sonia , Salguero Pedro , Scott Raymond , Lerma Alberto , Alastrue-Agudo Ana , Bonilla Pablo , Newman Jeremy R. B. , Kosugi Shunichi , McIntyre Lauren M. , Moreno-Manzano Victoria , Conesa Ana
Published: May 2020

Recent advances in long-read sequencing solve inaccuracies in alternative transcript identification of full-length transcripts in short-read RNA-Seq data, which encourages the development of methods for isoform-centered functional analysis. Here, we present tappAS, the first framework to enable a comprehensive Functional Iso-Transcriptomics (FIT) analysis, which is effective at revealing the functional impact of context-specific post-transcriptional regulation. tappAS uses isoform-resolved annotation of coding and non-coding functional domains, motifs, and sites, in combination with novel analysis methods to interrogate different aspects of the functional readout of transcript variants and isoform regulation. tappAS software and documentation are available athttps://app.tappas.org.
Anti-glaucoma potential of hesperidin in experimental glaucoma induced rats
Authors: Lu Baiyang , Wang Xue , Ren Zengjin , Jiang Haitao , Liu Bingqian
Published: May 2020

Glaucoma is well-known clinical eye conditions that damage the optic nerve due to abnormal pressure conditions in eye. Hesperidin is well-known glycoside widely present in the citrus fruits, and its aglycone form is known as hesperetin. Hesperidin is major flavone found in orange fruits. Hypotensive effect of hesperidin in acute and chronic glaucoma rats, glutamate level in vitreous humour and glutathione (GSH) level in aqueous humour were determined following 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg of hesperidin treatment. Acetazolamide (5 mg/kg) was used as positive control. Hesperidin treatment significantly reduced the increased intraocular pressure (IOP) level in dextrose induced ocular hypertension than saline treated rats. The effect of hesperidin was comparable to the positive control acetazolamide. Similarly, hesperidin treatment significantly reduced the IOP level in prednisolone acetate induced ocular hypertension than saline treated rats. In the aqueous humour, hesperidin treatment increased the glutathione level 125%, 184.4% and 231.2% at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg of hesperidin respectively. In the vitreous humour, hesperidin treatment reduced the glutamate level 9.9%, 13.2% and 25.3% at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg of hesperidin respectively. Histopathological analysis of normal saline treated rats showed morphological alteration in ciliary bodies. However, rats treated with hesperidin showed the reduced level of morphological alteration in ciliary bodies. Taking all these data together, it is suggested that the hesperidin supplementation was effective against glaucoma in experimental rats.
Visual rhythms for qualitative evaluation of video stabilization
Authors: e Souza Marcos Roberto , Pedrini Helio
Published: May 2020

Recent technological advances have enabled the development of compact and portable cameras for the generation of large volumes of video content. Several applications have benefited from such significant growth of multimedia data, such as telemedicine, surveillance and security, entertainment, teaching, and robotics. However, videos captured by amateurs are subject to unwanted motion or vibration while handling the camera. Video stabilization techniques aim to detect and remove glitches or instabilities caused during the acquisition process to enhance visual quality. In this work, we introduce and analyze a novel representation based on visual rhythms for qualitative evaluation of video stabilization methods. Experiments conducted on different video sequences are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the visual representation as qualitative measure for evaluating video stability. In addition, we present a proposal to calculate an objective metric extracted from the visual rhythms.
Still careless: findings from a cross-sectional study of young pedestrians’ risky road crossing behaviors
Authors: Hashemiparast Mina , Sharma Manoj , Asghari Jafarabadi Mohammad , Hosseini Zahra
Published: May 2020

Background

Pedestrian-vehicle collision is one of the most common traffic injuries worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the determinants of pedestrians’ road crossing beliefs and behaviors in potentially risky situations using the Theory of Planned Behavior among Iranian young adults.

Methods

This was a population-based study on a sample of 562 young adults aged 18 to 25 years living in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected by using a self-administered validated questionnaire including constructs of the theory of planned behavior and items of perceived risk and severity. The data were analyzed using independent t-test, analysis of covariance and multivariate analysis of variance.

Results

From all the respondents, 17.8% reported that they had previous experience of vehicle-collision. Among the participants, those who had previous experience of vehicle-collision reported less safety behaviors in crossing the road than those who had not experience an accident. It was found significant differences between participants with and without a history of vehicle-collision for perceived risk (mean difference, adjusted multivariate P-value: − 5.77, 0.027) and perceived severity (− 6.08, 0.003), attitude toward traffic regulations (− 6.34, 0.006), attitude toward behavior (− 7.56, 0.005), perceived behavioral control (− 5.20, 0.018), behavioral intention (− 5.35, 0.046) and road crossing behavior in potentially risky situations (− 5.37, 0.004).

Conclusions

Previous unpleasant experience of vehicle-collision is not the only determinant of self-protective behaviors in road- crossing which indicate the role of cognitive and motivational factors such as, subjective norms, attitudes towards risk, feelings of invulnerability in case of facing with vehicle collision.
What approaches exist to evaluate the effectiveness of UK-relevant natural flood management measures? A systematic map protocol
Authors: Connelly Angela , Snow Andrew , Carter Jeremy , Lauwerijssen Rachel
Published: May 2020

Background

Natural flood management (NFM) measures seek to protect, enhance, emulate, or restore the natural function of rivers as part of approaches to flood risk management (FRM). While there is agreement in both academic and practice/policy literature that NFM, in a general sense, should be part of a holistic FRM strategy to address current and future flood risk, the specifics of how to consistently implement NFM successfully in practice are less well known. This is particularly acute for practitioners in the UK given the nature of the UK’s biophysical and socio-political context. There is a recognition that existing reviews of NFM effectiveness in the UK tend to focus on the natural science basis and it is unclear how studies account for climate change. Further, reviews tend to focus only on UK studies. This systematic map aims to highlight the way in which existing NFM studies, from different disciplinary backgrounds and across Europe, evaluate effectiveness, and the extent to which they account for climate change. This knowledge can help to make recommendations for future areas of research where the multiple issues around understanding effectiveness can be synthesised, and where climate change is systematically taken into account.

Methods

This systematic map protocol addresses the following question: what approaches exist to evaluate the effectiveness of UK-relevant natural flood management measures? The protocol details the methodology that will be used to conduct a systematic map of the range of peer-reviewed journal papers, policy documents, guidance, and other forms of grey literature which currently exist on NFM to give an overview on the way in which the effectiveness of NFM is conceived. The methods detail the search strategy employed for gathering items across the peer-reviewed academic literature and grey literature. Additionally, the methods outline how the reviewers will approach article screening, and the eligibility criteria to include/exclude articles. The methods section also details the steps taken to ensure consistency across all reviewers, the data coding strategy, and methods for presenting the final systematic map. Together, the methods employed will help to identify current knowledge gaps, and will enable recommendations to be made for future research.
The advent of medical artificial intelligence: lessons from the Japanese approach
Authors: Ishii Euma , Ebner Daniel K. , Kimura Satoshi , Agha-Mir-Salim Louis , Uchimido Ryo , Celi Leo A.
Published: May 2020

Artificial intelligence or AI has been heralded as the most transformative technology in healthcare, including critical care medicine. Globally, healthcare specialists and health ministries are being pressured to create and implement a roadmap to incorporate applications of AI into care delivery. To date, the majority of Japan’s approach to AI has been anchored in industry, and the challenges that have occurred therein offer important lessons for nations developing new AI strategies. Notably, the demand for an AI-literate workforce has outpaced training programs and knowledge. This is particularly observable within medicine, where clinicians may be unfamiliar with the technology. National policy and private sector involvement have shown promise in developing both workforce and AI applications in healthcare. In combination with Japan’s unique national healthcare system and aggregable healthcare and socioeconomic data, Japan has a rich opportunity to lead in the field of medical AI.
Egg investment strategies adopted by a desertic passerine, the Saxaul Sparrow (Passer ammodendri)
Authors: Bao Xinkang , Zhao Wei , Liu Fangqing , Li Jianliang , Ma Donghui
Published: May 2020

Background

As one of the reproductive strategies adopted by bird species, variation in investment in egg production and its influencing factors are important and well-studied subjects. Intraclutch changes in egg size associated with laying order may reflect a strategy of “brood survival” or “brood reduction” adopted by female birds in different situations.

Methods

We conducted field studies on the breeding parameters of the Saxaul Sparrow (Passer ammodendri) in Gansu Province, China from 2010 to 2017, to clarify the factors affecting the egg investment and reproductive performance of this passerine species.

Results

Our results revealed significant differences in clutch size, egg size and the fledging rate between the first and second brood of Saxaul Sparrows and suggested that this typical desert species allocates more breeding resources to the more favourable second brood period, leading to greater reproductive output. Female body size presented a positive relationship with egg size, and male body size presented positive relationships with clutch size and hatchability. The females that started their clutches later laid more eggs, and hatchability and the fledging rate also increased with a later laying date in the first brood period. With successive eggs laid within the 5-egg clutches (the most frequent clutch size), egg size increased for the first three eggs and then significantly decreased.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that female Saxaul Sparrows increased egg investment because of good quality of paired males and good environmental conditions. The intraclutch variation of egg size suggests that this species inhabiting an arid environment adopts a “brood reduction” strategy.
Identifying best approaches for engaging patients and family members in health informatics initiatives: a case study of the Group Priority Sort technique
Authors: Lo Brian , Zhang Timothy , Leung Kevin , Mehta Rohan , Kuziemsky Craig , Booth Richard G. , Chyjek Anna , Rossetti Sarah Collins , McLean Drew , Borycki Elizabeth , McLay David , Noble Justin , Carter Shawn , Strudwick Gillian
Published: May 2020

Background

Patient engagement strategies in health service delivery have become more common in recent years. However, many healthcare organizations are challenged in identifying the best methods to engage patients in health information technology (IT) initiatives. Engaging with important stakeholders to identify effective opportunities can inform the development of a resource that addresses this issue and supports organizations in their endeavors. The purpose of this paper is to share our experience and lessons learned from applying a novel consensus-building technique in order to identify key elements for effective patient engagement in health IT initiatives. This will be done through a case study approach.

Methods

Patients, family members of patients, health professionals, researchers, students, vendor representatives and individuals who work in health IT roles in health organizations were engaged through a one-day symposium in Toronto, Canada in September, 2018. During the symposium, the Group Priority Sort technique was used to obtain structured feedback from symposium attendees in the context of small group discussions. Descriptive statistics and a content analysis were undertaken to analyze the data collected through the Group Priority Sort as well as participant feedback following the symposium.

Results

A total of 37 participants attended the symposium from a variety of settings and organizations. Using the Group Priority Sort technique, 30 topics were classified by priority to be included in a future resource. Participant feedback pertaining to the symposium and research methods was largely positive. Several areas of improvement, such as clarity of items, were identified from this case study.

Conclusions

The Group Priority Sort technique was an efficient method for obtaining valuable suggestions from a diverse group of stakeholders, including patients and family members. The specific priorities and feedback obtained from the symposium will be incorporated into a resource for healthcare organizations to aid them in engaging patients in health IT initiatives. Additionally, five important considerations were identified when conducting future work with the Group Priority Sort technique and are outlined in this paper.
In vivo and in vitro assessment of Trichoderma species and Bacillus thuringiensis integration to mitigate insect pests of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Nawaz Ahmad , Gogi Muhammad Dildar , Naveed Muhammad , Arshad Muhammad , Sufyan Muhammad , Binyameen Muhammad , Islam Shams Ul , Waseem Muhammad , Ayyub Muhammad Bilal , Arif Muhammad Jalal , Ali Habib
Published: May 2020

The present study was performed to assess the individual and combined potential of 3 different concentrations of Trichoderma sp. (Ts) and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control brinjal insect pests. Tested formulations were applied on larval and adult stages of the pest. The Trichoderma laboratory bioassays revealed 73% mortality of the aphid species, Aphis gossypii (Glover), and 53% mortality of the cotton leafhopper (Jassids) Amrasca bigutulla bigutulla (Ishida), while opposite results were observed in case of Bt at the highest concentration (1 × 108 cfu ml−1) used. In vivo results revealed that Ts caused a significant population reduction of the aphid (87%) than the jassid (72%), 7 days of post-treatment, at the highest concentration, while non-significant results were observed at the lowest concentrations. A. gossypii was significantly found more susceptible to the mixture of Trichoderma + Bt than the jassid (62%) and brinjal shoot and fruit borer (65%) even after 48 h of treatment application. The combined application (Trichoderma + Bt) showed maximum population reduction of jassid (88%), aphid (95%), and BSFB (96%), respectively, 7 days post-applications. The positive correlation among time and concentration was observed. The result may imply that consortium of these microbial organisms could be effective and can be incorporated in IPM programs for effective control of sucking and chewing insect pests of brinjal.
The Table of the Dead at the celebration of the deceased in the Ecuadorian Coastal Lowlands region
Authors: Silva Gómez Efrén , Quezada Tobar David , Orden Mejía Miguel , Quezada Tobar Estefanía
Published: May 2020

Ecuador is considered a multi-ethnic and multicultural country. It has several celebrations that are part of its traditions. One of these celebrations is the feast of All Souls Day, commemorated in a different way in the four regions of the country. In the coastal lowlands region, especially in the province of Santa Elena, the Tugaduaja community performs a ritual called theTable of the Dead, which consists of displaying various foods that the deceased relatives loved. The objective of this article is to describe the elaboration of this ritual from the ethnographic point of view, for which in-depth interviews and observation cards were used. TheTable of the Deadis held 2 days a year, on one occasion for dead children and on the other for dead adults. The festive meals that can never be absent from the table are roasted sweet potato, dead man’s bread, corn custard, and goat stew. This social, ritual and festive use contributes to the dialog and respect between the different cultures and communities of Ecuador.
Computer-aided analysis in evaluation and grading of interstitial lung diseases in correlation with CT-based visual scoring and pulmonary function tests
Authors: Higazi Mahmoud M. , Abdelgawad Ehab Ali , Kaseem Ahmed H. , Adly Kerria Raif
Published: May 2020

Background

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) represent a large group of more than 200 different entities. High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is accepted as the gold standard imaging modality in the diagnosis of ILD. The visual-based scoring offers an advantage in finding a specific type of ILD. Computer-aided CT attenuation histogram is another way of characterizing and quantifying diffuse lung disease. The histogram analysis (HIST) consists of calculating skewness, kurtosis, and mean lung density to quantify lung disease and monitor progression. The aim of our study was to investigate the value of computer-aided analysis of HRCT for interstitial lung diseases in correlation with scoring and pulmonary function tests.

Results

This prospective study included 50 patients with suspected ILD. The mean age of patients was 46.7 years ± 12.5. Mean forced expiratory volume FEV1 was 63.6 ± 20.9. HRCT examination was done for all patients followed by CT-based visual scaling. Most of the studied patients (43.3%) had a CT visual semi-quantitative scoring ranged between 40 and 64. CT-based lung density histograms (LDH) were obtained for all patients using the 3D Slicer Software (Chest Imaging Platform). There was a significant difference between patient’s groups of different (mild, moderate, and severe) grades of ILD according to FEV1 regarding MLD, skewness, and kurtosis of corresponding CT-based density histograms (p values < 0.001). More significant and higher correlation was observed between computerized aided CT quantified mean lung densities (MLD) and (FEV1) (p value < 0.001 and r = − 0.570). The ROC curve analysis demonstrated good performance for CT visual scoring with PFT (AUC = 0.71); a cutoff scoring 15 or higher was associated with best sensitivity (75%) and specificity (100%). Meanwhile, ROC curve analysis for MLD and FEV1 demonstrated an excellent performance for computer-based CT quantification (AUC = 0.85) with a value of − 769 HU which increased sensitivity to 65% and specificity to 100%.

Conclusion

Visual-based scoring techniques offer an advantage in finding a specific type of ILD. Computer-based quantification system could be a means for accurately monitoring the disease progression or response to therapy.
ADCs, BiTEs, CARs, and Small Molecules: A New Era of Targeted Therapy in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Abramson Jeremy S. , Ghosh Nilanjan , Smith Sonali M.
Published: May 2020

Novel immunotherapies and small molecular inhibitors are transforming our approach to previously treated and newly diagnosed patients across the spectrum of non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs). Anti-CD19 CAR T cells are now indicated for the treatment of relapsed/refractory aggressive B-cell lymphomas after at least two previous lines of therapy in which durable remissions are achieved in approximately 40% of previously incurable patients. Second-line chemoimmunotherapy remains the standard of care at first relapse, but poor outcomes with conventional treatment in this setting creates an appealing rationale for earlier use of CAR T cells, which is currently under investigation, along with even earlier use in selected high-risk patients in the frontline setting. Other emerging immunotherapies include antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), such as polatuzumab vedotin for multiple-relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in combination with bendamustine-rituximab. Multiple bispecific antibodies that bring malignant B cells in contact with effector T cells appear promising in early clinical trials and will likely emerge as off-the-shelf immunotherapy options. Chemotherapy-free small molecule–based regimens are increasingly available for mantle cell (MCLs) and follicular lymphomas (FLs). Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi) now represent standard second-line therapy for MCL and are being investigated in combination and as initial therapy. Lenalidomide-rituximab is an active regimen in both FL and MCL and may be used in either relapsed/refractory or previously untreated disease. Three PI3K inhibitors are approved for multiple-relapsed FL and can induce durable remissions in patients with chemotherapy- and rituximab-refractory disease. Additional emerging targeted therapies include BCL2 inhibition in MCL and EZH2 inhibition in FL.
Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation for Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Time for a Reassessment
Authors: Edelman Martin J.
Published: May 2020

Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) has been an accepted part of the management of both limited and small-cell lung cancer; however, the data that support its use in limited-stage disease is based on an analysis of trials done before currently accepted approaches to staging (i.e., brain MRI and/or PET scanning) were available. For extensive disease, data are available from two randomized studies that are in direct conflict. This article explores the basic rationale for PCI and the evidence indicating that it is time to readdress the question of its routine use.
Factors Associated With Chemotherapy-Induced Vomiting Control in Pediatric Patients Receiving Moderately or Highly Emetogenic Chemotherapy: A Pooled Analysis
Authors: Dupuis L. Lee , Tomlinson George A. , Pong Annpey , Sung Lillian , Bickham Kara
Published: May 2020

PURPOSE

To identify factors associated with chemotherapy-induced vomiting (CIV) control in pediatric patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An individual, patient‐level, pooled analysis was performed using data from five clinical trials of aprepitant or fosaprepitant in pediatric patients receiving HEC or MEC. The proportion of individuals who experienced no vomiting (complete CIV control) during the phase of interest was the primary study end point. The association of acute-phase complete CIV control (from first chemotherapy dose to 24 hours after the last chemotherapy dose of the chemotherapy block) with age, sex, race, cancer type, acute-phase duration, and antiemetic regimen was examined. Association of the same factors and acute-phase complete CIV control with complete CIV control in the delayed phase (end of acute phase until ≤ 96 hours later) was examined.

RESULTS

A total of 735 patients (mean age, 8.9 years; range, 0.3 to 17.9 years) were included in the acute-phase analysis. Acute-phase complete CIV control was less likely in older patients (relative risk [RR], 0.97 per year; 95% CI, 0.96 to 0.98 per year) and longer acute-phase duration (RR, 0.89 per day; 95% CI, 0.84 to 0.94 per day). Receipt of ondansetron plus aprepitant or fosaprepitant was associated with a higher likelihood of acute-phase complete CIV control versus ondansetron alone (RR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.50). Delayed-phase complete CIV control was more likely in patients with acute-phase complete CIV control (RR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.34) and in those who received aprepitant or fosaprepitant.

CONCLUSION

Younger age, shorter acute-phase duration, and antiemetic regimen were associated with acute-phase complete CIV control in pediatric patients receiving HEC or MEC. Acute-phase complete CIV control and antiemetic regimen were associated with delayed-phase complete CIV control.
Potential of Circulating Tumor DNA for the Management of Patients With Lymphoma
Authors: Huet Sarah , Salles Gilles
Published: May 2020

The characterization of circulating tumor-derived DNA (ctDNA) has recently emerged in the field of oncology as a powerful method to identify tumor-specific genetic aberrations using peripheral blood testing. Several technical precautions are needed at the pre-analytic stage (given the short half-life of free nucleic acids in plasma), and numerous techniques—with different sensitivities—are available to identify these molecular aberrations, ranging from the detection of single point mutations to extended genetic screening panels. Although a “liquid biopsy” cannot be substituted for the pathological examination of tissue specimens for diagnostic purposes, it can sometimes complement pathology results or serve as a proxy approach for particular lymphoma presentations where biopsies are sometimes difficult to perform. Moreover, ctDNA testing can characterize, at diagnosis or during treatment, mutations that may contribute to the choice of an optimal targeted therapy (such as Bruton tyrosine kinase or EZH2 inhibitors) or detect the emergence of resistance to those therapies. High levels of ctDNA before treatment appear to be correlated with advanced disease stages and prognosis in diffuse large B-cell and follicular lymphomas. Real-time follow-up of ctDNA levels during therapy in several lymphoma subtypes (diffuse large B-cell and Hodgkin lymphomas) has been explored: preliminary studies have demonstrated that this monitoring technique can predict clinical outcomes (end of treatment response and risk of progression after treatment completion) and that this approach may complement the information provided by metabolic imaging assessments. Technical standardization and careful prospective evaluation of the role of ctDNA monitoring in clinical studies represent current important challenges to allowing its application in routine practice.
Discussing Serious News Remotely: Navigating Difficult Conversations During a Pandemic
Authors: Holstead Ryan G. , Robinson Andrew G.
Published: May 2020

The 2020 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic has led to an increasing number of telemedicine clinician-patient encounters through telephone or videoconference. This provides a particular challenge in cancer care, where discussions frequently pertain to serious topics and are preferably performed in person. In this review, we use the SPIKES (Setting, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Empathy/Emotion, and Strategy/Summarize) protocol as a framework for how to approach the discussion of serious news through telemedicine. We discuss the practical and technical aspects of preparation for a remote conversation and review some differences, limitations, and advantages of these discussions. The greatest challenge with the medium is the loss of the ability to read and display nonverbal cues. Vigilant attention to proven communication strategies and solicitation of patient involvement with the discussion can allow the care provider to display empathy at a distance. Having serious discussions through telemedicine is likely unavoidable for many providers in this unprecedented time. This summary provides some strategies to help to maintain the high standard of care that we all seek for our patients who are receiving serious news.
The Word Project
Authors: Schirmer Elizabeth , Getzler Avilah
Published: May 2020

This article describes a collaborative effort by faculty at two very different institutions to integrate the study of language change into surveys of early British literature. Using a series of structured assignments, the Word Project engages students directly in linguistic research, literary analysis, and the making of literary history.
A Drosophila model to study retinitis pigmentosa pathology associated with mutations in the core splicing factor Prp8
Authors: Stanković Dimitrije , Claudius Ann-Katrin , Schertel Thomas , Bresser Tina , Uhlirova Mirka
Published: May 2020

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) represents genetically heterogeneous and clinically variable disease characterized by progressive degeneration of photoreceptors resulting in a gradual loss of vision. The autosomal dominant RP type 13 (RP13) has been linked to the malfunction of PRPF8, an essential component of the spliceosome. Over 20 different RP-associated PRPF8 mutations have been identified in human patients. However, the cellular and molecular consequences of their expression in vivo in specific tissue contexts remain largely unknown. Here, we establish a Drosophila melanogaster model for RP13 by introducing the nine distinct RP mutations into the fly PRPF8 ortholog prp8 and express the mutant proteins in precise spatiotemporal patterns using the Gal4/UAS system. We show that all nine RP-Prp8 mutant proteins negatively impact developmental timing, albeit to a different extent, when expressed in the endocrine cells producing the primary insect moulting hormone. In the developing eye primordium, uncommitted epithelial precursors rather than differentiated photoreceptors appeared sensitive to Prp8 malfunction. Expression of the two most pathogenic variants, Prp8S>F and Prp8H>R, induced apoptosis causing alterations to the adult eye morphology. The affected tissue mounted stress and cytoprotective responses, while genetic programs underlying neuronal function were attenuated. Importantly, the penetrance and expressivity increased under prp8 heterozygosity. In contrast, blocking apoptosis alleviated cell loss but not the redox imbalance. Remarkably, the pathogenicity of the RP-Prp8 mutations in Drosophila correlates with the severity of clinical phenotypes in patients carrying the equivalent mutations, highlighting the suitability of the Drosophila model for in-depth functional studies of the mechanisms underlying RP13 etiology.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.