bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of long-term, group-based physical, cognitive and social activities on physical performance in elderly, community-dwelling people with mild to moderate dementia
Authors: Junge Tina , Knudsen Hans Kromann , Kristensen Hanne Kaae
Published: October 2020

Background

Elderly people with dementia are known to be less physically active compared with elderly, healthy people, emphasizing the need for interventions in order to maintain a high level of independence in activities of daily living. The aim was to evaluate the effect of long-term, group-based rehabilitation including physical activity on physical performance in elderly, community-dwelling people with mild to moderate dementia.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study of 18 elderly, community-dwelling people, diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia, participated in an ongoing rehabilitation programme based on integrated physical, cognitive and social activities. The outcome measure was physical performance: the 30-second sit-to-stand test, Guralnik balance test, 10-metre walking speed test, timed 6-metre walk test and a timed dual task walk test. The repeated measure ANOVA was used to analyse any overall differences between related means.

Results

No significant effect of time was found for the five outcome measures during the entire period. The variation in the estimate of most outcome scores was higher within subjects than between subjects during the period. Profile plots illustrated that three of the participants, who experienced severe cognitive deterioration, markedly declined in all physical performance tests.

Conclusion

The expected, progressive deterioration in physical performance was delayed in a small group of home-dwelling people with mild to moderate dementia participating in long-term, group-based rehabilitation. Long-term, group-based rehabilitation may have the overall potential to delay deterioration in activities of daily living performance in home-dwelling people with mild to moderate dementia; however, more studies with larger samples are needed to confirm the findings of this study.
Observation on sloshing flow and hydrodynamic pressures on cylindrical liquefied natural gas tank with swash bulkhead
Authors: Lee Jeoungkyu , Ahn Yangjun , Kim Jieung , Kim Yonghwan , Yang Kyung-Kyu , Yi Si-Ik , Noh Myung-Hyun
Published: October 2020

In this study, a series of sloshing model tests were conducted for type-C tanks, particularly to observe the effects of the inner bulkhead and rings. In regular pitch motion, the internal flow by swash bulkhead and rings located inside the tank was observed. The frequency range near the resonance frequency was checked at filling heights of 70%, and sloshing-induced impact pressures were investigated. Through this study, the global flows inside the tank and local flows during impact occurrence at the hemispherical end of the tank were systematically observed, and the impact pressure pattern for each frequency ratio was compared. Due to the swash bulkhead located in the center of the tank, the flow does not move at once and the velocity of the flow is reduced by the inner rings. The flows passing through the swash bulkhead proceed with a time difference, overlapping with the first wave, generating various types of sloshing impact. The results of computational fluid dynamics calculation and the experiment were also compared for limited conditions.
Work Requirements and Perceived Deservingness of Medicaid
Authors: Wu Jennifer D.
Published: October 2020

Does an individual’s effort to acquire employer-sponsored health insurance through employment affect whether they are deserving of health insurance? Much of the current literature that examines the deservingness of federally-funded health insurance focuses on an individual’s responsibility in becoming ill. However, logic from the welfare literature would suggest the willingness to work for one’s welfare, or reciprocity, is an important determinant of deservingness. The relevance of employment-seeking in Medicaid deservingness comes at a crucial time given recent attempts by state governments to implement work requirements as a part of Medicaid eligibility. Using a series of survey experiments, I compare the importance of responsibility versus reciprocity and find that responsibility, what one does to become ill, is the primary driver of judgments of deservingness. What one does to earn their Medicaid by working plays a negligible role in driving attitudes. These findings have implications for how we understand the determinants of support for Medicaid policy.
Quantitative EEG in Childhood Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Learning Disabilities
Authors: Chiarenza Giuseppe Augusto
Published: October 2020

The clinical use of the quantitative EEG (QEEG) from the pioneering work of John has received a new impetus thanks to new neuroimaging techniques and the possibility of using a number of normative databases both of normal subjects and of subjects with definite pathologies. In this direction, the term personalized medicine is becoming more and more common, a medical procedure that separates patients into different groups based on their predicted response to the quantitative EEG. This has allowed the study of single subjects and to customize health care, with decisions and treatments tailored to each individual patient, as well as improvement of knowledge of the pathophysiological mechanisms of specific diseases. This review article will present the most recent evidence in the field of developmental neuropsychiatric disorders obtained from the application of quantitative EEG both in clinical group studies (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, developmental dyslexia, oppositional defiant disorder) and in individual case studies not yet published.
Once-Daily Low Inflammatory Foods Everyday (LIFE) Smoothie or the Full LIFE Diet Lowers C-Reactive Protein and Raises Plasma Beta-Carotene in 7 Days
Authors: Perzia Brittany , Ying Gui-Shuang , Dunaief Joshua L. , Dunaief David M.
Published: October 2020

Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, is associated with increased risk for numerous inflammation-driven chronic diseases. A prior longitudinal study showed that the Low Inflammatory Foods Everyday (LIFE) diet, which is rich in dark green leafy vegetables (DGLV), lowered CRP over a mean follow-up period of 6 months. In this retrospective study, we investigate whether patients who consume the LIFE diet or their regular diet plus one component of the LIFE diet (LIFE smoothie), experience reductions in high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) in 7 days. Sixteen patients in a community practice met inclusion criteria. Patient compliance was assessed by patient interviews and measurements of beta-carotene, which is abundant in DGLV. Following the interventions, CRP decreased in both the LIFE diet (−0.47 mg/L, P = .02) and smoothie groups (−1.2 mg/L, P = .04). No statistically significant difference in reduction was observed between groups ( P = .18). Plasma beta-carotene increased in both groups (+23.2, P = .02; +20.6, P = .006, respectively). These findings suggest that the LIFE diet or a regular American diet supplemented with the LIFE smoothie may quickly reduce systemic inflammation and the risk of many chronic diseases.
TRPV4-Mediated Epithelial Junction Disruption in Allergic Rhinitis Triggered by House Dust Mites
Authors: Lee Kijeong , Byun Junhyoung , Kim Byoungjae , Yeon Jiwoo , Tai Junhu , Lee Sang Hag , Kim Tae Hoon
Published: October 2020

Background

Epithelial barrier disruption is a crucial feature of allergic rhinitis (AR). Previous reports have indicated the role of transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) 4 in regulating the intercellular junctions in various cells. However, the role of TRPV4 and its regulation by T helper 2 cell cytokines in the epithelial cells of patients with AR remains unclear.

Objective

We aimed to elucidate the expression of TRPV4 in nasal epithelial cells and its cytokine-induced regulation, and to reveal its role in house dust mite-induced junction disruption in AR.

Methods

The expression of TRPV4 in nasal epithelial cells was measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunohistochemical assays, and the expression levels were compared between the patients with AR and healthy controls. Altered expression of TRPV4 was induced in cultured nasal epithelial cells by stimulation of interleukin (IL) 4, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. In addition, expression of E-cadherin and zonula occludens 1 was induced in Der p 1-stimulated epithelial cells by treatment with either a TRPV4 agonist (GSK1016790A) or a TRPV4 antagonist (RN1734).

Results

TRPV4 expression was increased in epithelial cells harvested from the affected turbinates compared to those from the normal turbinates. The stimulation of cultured epithelial cells with IL-4 and IL-13 resulted in TRPV4 upregulation. Additionally, E-cadherin and zonula occludens 1 expression levels decreased in the cultured epithelial cells treated with GSK1016790A after stimulation with Der p 1, whereas Der p 1 stimulation alone showed no effect on junctional protein expression.

Conclusions

Increased TRPV4 expression occurred in epithelial cells harvested from patients with AR and epithelial cells stimulated by Th2 cytokines. Decreased junctional protein expression in epithelial cells after the stimulation by house dust mite allergen with TRPV4 agonist indicates a possible role of TRPV4 in the pathogenesis of allergen-induced epithelial barrier disruption in AR.
Clinical vignette of bronchoscopic thermal vapour ablation: Malaysians’ first experience
Authors: Mohammad Nurashikin , Nasaruddin Mona Zaria , Ismail Rosmadi , Abdul Rahaman Jamalul Azizi Bin
Published: October 2020

We report a case of severe emphysema with bullae in a patient who underwent the new technique of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction to the right upper lobe. He was symptomatic with breathlessness and frequent exacerbations. He was not deemed suitable for a surgical lung volume reduction or bullectomy due to a very low forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Endobronchial valves were not considered due to the incomplete fissures. The case was carefully screened, and was discussed in a multidisciplinary meeting prior to the final decision. This was the first case in Malaysia of bronchoscopic thermal vapour ablation (BTVA) for severe advanced emphysema. Multiple experts were involved prior, during and after the procedure. Despite having a poor lung reserve, he came through the procedure successfully with no immediate complications. His serial spirometry showed a 50% improvement at six months compared to baseline. This case highlights the important role of a multidisciplinary meeting, expert opinion and the careful selection of which patients should undergo BTVA. The procedure should be carried out at a centre of excellence in order to achieve a successful procedure.
Endoscope-assisted facial nerve decompression for traumatic tympanic segment of facial nerve paresis
Authors: Misron Khairunnisak , Tengku Kamalden Tengku Mohamed Izam , Lamry Nur Adillah
Published: October 2020

Traumatic facial nerve paresis is an undesired sequel following temporal bone fractures. The choice of surgical approach for this condition is largely dependent on the site of the lesion. A 33-year-old woman presented with delayed facial nerve paresis following a motor vehicle accident, which did not show any improvement with conservative treatment for 3 months. Preoperatively, she had facial nerve paresis House–Brackmann grade V. She underwent endoscope-assisted facial nerve decompression involving the tympanic segment of the facial nerve. A standard postauricular mastoidectomy was performed. The mastoid segment of the facial nerve was identified but there was no obvious fracture or bony spicule seen. An extended posterior tympanotomy was done and endoscope was used by way of this corridor to examine the tympanic segment of the facial nerve until the second genu which appeared to be emaciated with lack of lustre. Finally, neurolysis was done under endoscopic guidance. She regained significant improvement in her facial nerve function 8 months postoperatively to House–Brackmann grade II.
Fatal food-induced anaphylaxis: Determination of tryptase and specific IgE on cadaveric blood samples. What else for a better methodological standard?
Authors: D’Errico Stefano , Santurro Alessandro , Scopetti Matteo , Frati Paola , Fineschi Vittorio
Published: October 2020

Post-mortem investigation in cases of fatal anaphylaxis is required to provide clarifications on the presence of macroscopic pathological changes, histological features, and immunohistochemical positivity suggestive of the diagnosis, on biochemical evidence of anaphylaxis and on the presence of serological data indicative of the allergen responsible for the anaphylactic reaction. We describe the case of a 16-year-old boy with a medical history of allergic asthma, celiac disease, and known food-induced allergy for fish, fresh milk, peanuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, apples, kiwis, and peaches. Acute onset of dyspnea followed by cyanosis of the lips and respiratory failure was described immediately after having an ice cream sandwich. Unsuccessful rescues were immediately attempted with oral administration of betamethasone, intramuscular injection of adrenaline, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. A complete post-mortem examination was performed. Serum dosage of mast cell beta-tryptase from femoral blood detecting serum values of 41.4 mg/l. Determination of specific IgE on cadaveric blood samples confirmed the anamnestic data related to sensitization for several food allergens, including cod parvalbumin, tropomyosin, brazil nut, omega-5-gliadin of foods derived from wheat and gluten. The cause of death was identified in a cardiorespiratory failure due to anaphylactic shock in a poly-allergic subject and anaphylaxis was ascribed to the wheat contained in the ice cream sandwich eaten immediately before the onset of respiratory symptoms. The need is to implement an interdisciplinary approach capable to ascertain the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic tests currently in use as well as to evaluate the possibility of introducing new biomarkers in practice.
The Factor Structure of Social Cognition in Schizophrenia: A Focus on Replication With Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Machine Learning
Authors: Riedel Philipp , Horan William P. , Lee Junghee , Hellemann Gerhard S. , Green Michael F.
Published: October 2020

Social cognition has become a major focus in psychosis research aimed at explaining heterogeneity in functional outcome and developing interventions oriented to functional recovery. However, there is still no consensus on the structure of social cognition in psychosis, and research in this area has been plagued by lack of replication. Our first goal was to replicate the factor structure of social cognition using nearly identical tasks in independent samples. Our second goal was to externally validate the factors as they relate to nonsocial cognition and various symptoms in the prediction of functioning using machine learning. Confirmatory factor analyses validated a three-factor model for social cognition in psychosis (low-level, high-level, attributional bias factor). A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and cross-validation provided evidence for external validity of data-driven linear models including the social-cognitive factors, nonsocial cognition, and symptoms. We addressed the replicability problems that have impeded research in this area, and our results will guide future psychosis studies.
Translation and validation of an extended German version of ID Migraine™ as a migraine screening tool
Authors: Thiele Anne , Strauß Sebastian , Angermaier Anselm , Kronenbuerger Martin , Fleischmann Robert
Published: October 2020

Background and purpose:

Diagnosing a patient with headache as a migraineur is critical for state-of-the-art migraine management. Screening tools are imperative means to improve the diagnostic yield in the primary care settings and specialized clinics. This study aims to translate and assess the diagnostic accuracy of a German version of the ID Migraine™ as a widely used and efficient screening instrument.

Methods:

The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy translation methodology was used to translate the original three-item ID Migraine™, including a fourth question for aura, from the English language into the German language. Diagnostic accuracy of the German ID Migraine™ and predictors of false screening results were assessed among patients presenting to a headache outpatient clinic of a tertiary care center in Germany over a 6-month period.

Results:

The translation procedure yielded a harmonized German ID Migraine™ and its diagnostic accuracy was assessed in 105 patients (80 female, 46.5 ± 17.2 years of age), including 79 patients (75.2%) with migraine. The three-item German ID Migraine™ provides a sensitivity of 99%, specificity of 68%, and positive and negative predictive values of 90% and 95%, respectively, using a cutoff of ≥2. Positive and negative predictive values in a general headache population are estimated to be 74% and 98%, respectively. The aura question identified 18 out of 20 migraineurs with aura.

Conclusions:

The German ID Migraine™ is an accurate screening tool for migraine even in a challenging population of a specialized outpatient clinic. Its diagnostic accuracy indicates a potential utility for screening in primary health care.
The synergistic proapoptotic effect of PARP-1 and HDAC inhibition in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is mediated via Blimp-1
Authors: Kruglov Oleg , Wu Xuesong , Hwang Sam T. , Akilov Oleg E.
Published: October 2020

The therapy of advanced mycosis fungoides (MF) presents a therapeutic challenge, and the search for new therapeutic targets is ongoing. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 was shown to be upregulated in patients with advanced MF and could be druggable by a new class of chemotherapeutic agents, PARP-1 inhibitors, which are already in clinical trials for other malignancies; however, the role of PARP-1 inhibitors in MF has never been established. We examined the efficacy of talazoparib in the murine model of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The cytotoxic effect of talazoparib on Moloney MuLV-induced T-cell lymphoma (MBL2) cells was a result of G2/M cell cycle arrest via the upregulation of p53. The in vivo experiments confirmed the clinical impact of talazoparib on MF tumors. When talazoparib was combined with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, romidepsin, the cytotoxic effect was synergized via downregulation of the DNA-repair genes Fanconianemia complementation group A (FANCA), Fanconi anemia complementation group D2 (FANCD2), and DNA topoisomerase II binding protein 1(TOPBP1)and stimulation of apoptosis via Blimp-1 (PRDM1)/Bax axis. Romidepsin increased the expression of IRF8 and Bcl-6, leading to upregulation of Blimp1and Bax; whereas talazoparib upregulated Blimp-1 and Bax via upregulation of interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4), leading to cleavage of caspases 6 and 7. Thus, a combination of talazoparib with romidepsin demonstrated the synergistic antilymphoma effect and warranted further investigation in a clinical trial.
The impact of muscle strength on exercise capacity and symptoms
Authors: Farooqi Mohammed Abdul Malik , Killian Kieran , Satia Imran
Published: October 2020

The capacity to exercise is a major contributor to functional limitation and is accompanied by increased morbidity and mortality. What are the most important physiological contributors to exercise capacity?

Cross-sectional data from consecutive patients referred to the McMaster University Medical Centre exercise laboratory for incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing from 1988 to 2012 were analysed. Exercise capacity was determined by maximal power output (MPO) in kpm·min−1. The contributions of quadriceps strength (maximal peak force in kg using maximal dynamic voluntary contractions against hydraulic resistance), inspiratory muscle strength (determined using maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP)), maximal breathing capacity (MBC) and gas exchange (carbon monoxide transfer coefficient (KCO)) were determined using regression coefficients in a multiple linear regression model. Dyspnoea and leg fatigue were measured using the modified Borg scale. Contributors to dyspnoea and leg fatigue were assessed using nonlinear regression.

A total of 36 389 patients were included (60% male, mean±sdage 53±18 years). Mean±sdMPO, quadriceps strength and MIP achieved were 792±333 kpm·min−1, 46±18 kg and 75±31 cmH2O, respectively. MIP and quadriceps strength accounted for over half the variation in MPO (R2=0.57). Quadriceps strength was a stronger predictor of MPO (standardised regression coefficient, β±se0.37±0.005) than MBC (β±se0.16±0.005) andKCO(β±se0.16±0.004), when adjusted for age, sex, height and weight. The effort required to cycle and breathe at any given power intensified systematically as both respiratory and peripheral muscle strength declined.

Muscle weakness causes exercise intolerance and should be routinely assessed in patients presenting with fatigue and dyspnoea, and those with functional limitation both in the presence or absence of disease.
Does prior mediastinal lymph node aspiration contribute to false-positive positron emission tomography–computed tomography?
Authors: Ramsahai J. Michael , Molnar Christine , Lou Lawrence , Ying Winston , MacEachern Paul , Hergott Christopher A. , Dumoulin Elaine , Strilchuk Nadine , Fortin Marc , Tremblay Alain
Published: October 2020

Background

Proper staging of the mediastinum is an essential component of lung cancer evaluation. Positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PETCT) and endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) are an integral part of this process. False-positive PETCT results can occur following surgical procedures but has not been demonstrated following EBUS-TBNA. We aimed to determine whether false-positive PETCT rates increase when EBUS-TBNA is performed prior to PETCT.

Study design and methods

A retrospective review was carried out of clinical cases that underwent both PETCT and EBUS-TBNA within 30 days for the suspected malignancy. The impact of test sequence on the PETCT false-positive rate (FPR) was determined using Generalised Estimating Equation logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 675 lymph node stations were sampled and imaged on PETCT. Overall, 332 (49.2%) nodes were sampled by EBUS-TBNA before PETCT, and 343 (50.8%) afterwards, with the interval between EBUS and subsequent PETCT being a mean±sdof 11.6±6.8 days (range 1–29). The FPR on qualitative PETCT for the EBUS first group was 41 (23.2%) out of 164, and for PETCT first it was 57 (29.0%) out of 193 for a difference of 5.8% (95% CI −3.4–14.7, p=0.22). In the regression model, EBUS as the first test was associated with a lower FPR when using the clinical PETCT interpretation.

Interpretation

The performance of EBUS-TBNA sampling did not influence the FPR of PETCT when bronchoscopy took place in the 30 days prior to testing. Test sequence should be selected based on other clinical considerations.
Post hocanalysis of a randomised controlled trial: effect of vitamin D supplementation on circulating levels of desmosine in COPD
Authors: Janssen Rob , Serré Jef , Piscaer Ianthe , Zaal Ruben , van Daal Henny , Mathyssen Carolien , Zanen Pieter , van den Ouweland Jody M.W. , Janssens Wim
Published: October 2020

Background

Vitamin D supplementation lowers exacerbation frequency in severe vitamin D-deficient patients with COPD. Data regarding the effect of vitamin D on elastin degradation are lacking. Based on the vitamin's anti-inflammatory properties, we hypothesised that vitamin D supplementation reduces elastin degradation, particularly in vitamin D-deficient COPD patients. We assessed the effect of vitamin D status and supplementation on elastin degradation by measuring plasma desmosine, a biomarker of elastin degradation.

Methods

Desmosine was measured every 4 months in plasma of 142 vitamin D-naïve COPD patients from the Leuven vitamin D intervention trial (100 000 IU vitamin D3 supplementation every 4 weeks for 1 year).

Results

No significant association was found between baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and desmosine levels. No significant difference in desmosine change over time was found between the placebo and intervention group during the course of the trial. In the intervention arm, an unexpected inverse association was found between desmosine change and baseline 25(OH)D levels (p=0.005).

Conclusions

Vitamin D supplementation did not have a significant overall effect on elastin degradation compared to placebo. Contrary to our hypothesis, the intervention decelerated elastin degradation in vitamin D-sufficient COPD patients and not in vitamin D-deficient subjects.
Factor analysis identifies three separate symptom clusters in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Seppälä Severi , Rajala Kaisa , Lehto Juho Tuomas , Sutinen Eva , Mäkitalo Laura , Kautiainen Hannu , Kankaanranta Hannu , Ainola Mari , Saarto Tiina , Myllärniemi Marjukka
Published: October 2020

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe and progressive lung disease with a poor prognosis. Patients with IPF suffer from a high symptom burden, which impairs their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Lack of research on IPF symptoms and their clustering, however, makes symptom-centred care challenging.

Methods

We sent two questionnaires, RAND 36-Item Health Survey and Edmonton Symptom Assessment System, to 300 patients from the FinnishIPF registry. Of the 300 patients, 245 (82%) responded. We performed an exploratory factor analysis on the results to search for potential clustering of symptoms into factors.

Results

We found three distinct symptom factors: the emotional factor (including depression, anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea), the pain factor (pain at rest or in movement) and the respiratory symptoms factor (shortness of breath, cough, tiredness and loss of wellbeing). Correlation was strong within the factors (ρτ0.78–0.85) and also evident between them. The factors correlated with the different dimensions of HRQoL: the emotional factor with mental health (correlation coefficient=−0.69) and vitality (−0.63), the pain factor with bodily pain (−0.72) and the respiratory symptoms factor with vitality (−0.69), general health (−0.64) and physical functioning (−0.62).

Conclusion

We found three distinct symptom factors in IPF, of which respiratory and emotional factors showed the strongest association with decreasing HRQoL. Routine assessment of IPF patients' respiratory symptoms, mental health and pain are important as these may be linked with other symptoms and significantly impair the patient's HRQoL.
Height outcomes in children with growth hormone deficiency and idiopathic short stature treated concomitantly with growth hormone and aromatase inhibitor therapy: data from the ANSWER program
Authors: Miller Bradley S. , Ross Judith , Ostrow Vlady
Published: October 2020

Background

Treatment of children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) or idiopathic short stature (ISS) using GH is only effective for bone growth prior to epiphyseal fusion. Aromatase inhibitor therapy (AIT) blocks estrogen production, thereby delaying epiphyseal fusion. The current study analyzed baseline characteristics and longitudinal data of male patients with GHD or ISS who were treated with GH and concomitant AIT.

Methods

Data were obtained from the observational American Norditropin® Studies: Web-Enabled Research (ANSWER) Program, which collected efficacy and safety data of patients treated with Norditropin®. A longitudinal cohort approach compared patient characteristics, including chronologic age, bone age, and height standard deviation score (HSDS), in GH-treated males before and after AIT initiation.

Results

A total of 142 GH-naïve patients with GHD (n = 115) or ISS (n = 27) with mean (± SD) baseline chronological ages of 12.10 ± 3.00 and 10.76 ± 3.07 years, respectively, were analyzed. The majority were classified at advanced Tanner stages II to V. Patients with GHD had mean HSDS of − 1.97 ± 0.78 at baseline and − 0.99 ± 0.88 prior to AIT initiation, while corresponding values for patients with ISS were − 2.15 ± 0.72 and − 1.04 ± 0.79, respectively. In patients evaluated after 2 years of concomitant AIT, mean HSDS had decreased to − 0.40 ± 1.16 and − 0.65 ± 0.52 for patients with GHD and ISS, respectively. Patients with GHD had a mean bone age/chronological age ratio (BA/CA) of 0.91 ± 0.11 at baseline and 0.97 ± 0.10 prior to AIT initiation, while corresponding values for patients with ISS were 0.85 ± 0.16 and 0.99 ± 0.10, respectively. In patients evaluated after 2 years of concomitant AIT, mean BA/CA values were 0.95 ± 0.10 and 0.96 ± 0.06 for patients with GHD and ISS, respectively.

Conclusions

In this real-world analysis, use of AIT with GH in males appeared to be associated with ongoing growth over 2 years, and AIT likely augmented growth potential as indicated by continued HSDS increase with decreased BA/CA after AIT initiation.

Trial registration

This trial was sponsored by Novo Nordisk and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01009905). Registered November 11, 2009; retrospectively registered
Evaluation of physicochemical, microbiological, and energetic characteristics of four agricultural wastes for use in the production of green energy in Moroccan farms
Authors: El Asri Ouahid , Afilal Mohamed Elamin , Laiche Hayate , Elfarh Larbi
Published: October 2020

Background

Animal husbandry is one of the agricultural activities that generates economic benefits for agriculture. We detected significant development of these activities in Morocco. Currently, it is stuck between the increase of organic waste polluting the farm environment and the energy needed to ensure the activities. Faced with this challenge, we determined all physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics for livestock wastes most spread in Morocco. We evaluated also their ability to be used as bioresources for the anaerobic digestion and incineration ways for energy production to agricultural units.

Methods

We worked on four organic wastes (cow dung, horse manure, broiler droppings, and the excrement of laboratory mouse). The physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics: moisture, total solids, volatile solids, organic carbon, nitrogen, ions and heavy metals, staphylococci, coliforms, yeasts and fungi and total aerobic mesophilic bacteria are determined by standard methods. The determination of lower heating value is performed with calorimetric bomb. The biogas production is determined by four batch types of digesters. All digesters are incubated at 35 ± 1 ℃ for 40 days. The volumes of biogas produced are corrected under standard pressure and temperature conditions.

Results

We noticed that the four agricultural wastes have a lower heating value closer to each other. When comparing the physicochemical composition of our wastes with that of Tanner’s theoretical waste, we have found that the valorization of these organic wastes by incineration is without energy and economic benefits. The microbiological content reflects the presence of a reservoir of pathogenic bacteria. On the other hand, the biogas potential shows that cow waste produces the largest amount of biogas. The co-digestion is necessary for horse manure, chicken manure, and excrement of laboratory mouse in order to increase their biogas potential. The mineral composition shows the possibility of using digestate of these wastes as an organic amendment to plants.

Conclusions

The comparison of the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of the four organic wastes in Morocco reflects some important points. Firstly, there is an urgency to intervene to treat and valorize these wastes before putting them in the open air. Secondly, the incineration of this waste is inadequate from an energy point of view. In the third position, these wastes present a great ability to be used as feed substrates of farm digesters. Finally, the biogas potential and the mineral composition of these wastes demonstrates the ability to use them as bioresources capable of producing green energy and an organic amendment to Moroccan farms.
Young people’s tech identity performances: why materiality matters
Authors: Godec Spela , Patel Uma , Archer Louise , Dawson Emily
Published: October 2020

Background

Identity provides a useful conceptual lens for understanding educational inequalities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). In this paper, we examine how paying attention to physical and digital ‘materiality’ enriches our understanding of identity work, by going beyond the spoken, written and embodied dimensions of identity performances that currently dominate the area of STEM identity scholarship. We draw on a multimodal ethnographic study with 36 young people aged 11–14 carried out over the course of one year at four UK-based informal STEM learning settings. Data collection included a series of interviews, observations and youth-created portfolios focused on STEM experiences. Illustrative case studies of two young men who took part in a community-based digital arts centre are discussed in detail through the theoretical lenses of Judith Butler’sidentity performativityand Karen Barad’sintra-action.

Results

We argue that physical and digital materiality mattered for the performances of ‘tech identity’ in that (i) the focus on the material changed our understanding of tech identity performances; (ii) digital spaces supported identity performances alongside, with and beyond physical bodies, and drew attention to new forms of identity recognition; (iii) identity performances across spaces were unpredictable and contained by the limits of material possibilities; and (iv) particular identity performances associated with technology were aligned with dominant enactments of masculinity and might thus be less accessible to some young people.

Conclusion

We conclude the paper by suggesting that accounting for materiality in STEM identity research not only guides researchers in going beyond what participants say and are observed doing (and thus engendering richer insights), but also offers more equitable ways of enacting research. Further, we argue that more needs to be done to support the translation of identity resources across spaces, such as between experiences within informal and online spaces, on the one hand, and formal education, on the other.
Tea consumption and measures of attention and psychomotor speed in the very old: the Newcastle 85+ longitudinal study
Authors: Okello Edward Jonathan , Mendonça Nuno , Stephan Blossom , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Wesnes Keith , Siervo Mario
Published: October 2020

Background

A number of studies have indicated a beneficial effect of tea consumption on the reduction of risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in older aged populations. However, there is a paucity of data on these associations in the very old, defined as individuals aged 85 years and over. We investigated the relationship between tea consumption in the very old and measures of global cognitive function, memory, attention and psychomotor speed.

Method

Longitudinal (5-years), population-based cohort study of individuals aged 85+ years in the North East of England, United Kingdom. Participants were community-dwelling and institutionalized men and women recruited through general medical practices (n = 676). Baseline tea consumption and longitudinal measures of global and domain specific (memory, speed and attention) cognitive function were assessed. Linear mixed models, controlling for demographic (e.g. age, sex and education) and health variables were used to determine whether tea consumption was protective against cognitive decline.

Results

Tea consumption was not associated with cognitive function at baseline on any measure (unadjusted and adjusted analyses). In the linear mixed effects models adjusted for age, sex, education and disease co-morbidity, higher tea consumption was associated with significantly better attention (focused and sustained attention), and psychomotor speed (complex tasks only) over five-years follow-up. However, there was no association between tea consumption and global cognitive function, memory or performance on simple speed tasks over time.

Conclusions

In this cohort study of non-demented very old adults we found that higher (vs. lower) tea consumption was associated with better performance over time on measures of focused and sustained attention and some psychomotor speed tasks. No associations with global cognition, memory or easy speed tasks (simple Reaction Time or Word Recognition) were detected. The results have implications for the development of possible diet-based interventions focused on improving cognitive function in the very old age group. These findings need to be confirmed in a sufficiently powered and well-designed RCT with non-demented very old adults.
Apples, oranges and lemons: public sector debt statistics in the 21st century
Authors: Seiferling Mike
Published: October 2020

In both academic research and policymaking, public sector debt and debt-to-GDP ratios are relied on for a multitude of important economic, political and socioeconomic decisions, especially as public sector balance sheets expand to an unprecedented size in the midst of the 2019–2020 COVID pandemic. The reliance on available data from reputable sources often overlooks the question of whether the denominator in this ratio is accurately measured or how well the denominator is understood by the audience interpreting it. Building on past work in international financial statistics, and making use of a unique and newly created dataset on media reporting of public sector debt, the purpose of this article is to examine the quality, accuracy, interpretation and overall meaningfulness of public sector financial statistics. The main findings suggest thati)most of the world’s governments still do not seem to feel sufficient pressure to voluntarily provide comprehensive financial statistics based on well-defined modern methodological frameworks andii)high profile financial statistics, which are reported, have become increasingly numerous and complicated, making it difficult for non-experts to know which is most appropriate in the context of their analysis.
Outlook of IL-6 signaling blockade for COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Hashizume Misato
Published: October 2020

In this review article, it is highlighted the implications of pleiotropic functions of interleukin-6 (IL-6) for one of the therapeutic options targeting for COVID-19. Moreover, it is discussed how real-world data and trials with IL-6 signaling blockade will be crucial in informing the development of new treatment for COVID-19 pneumonia.

Given physiological roles of IL-6 in inflammatory conditions and the data from real world, IL-6 signal inhibitors, along with standard of care (SOC) treatment, might provide efficacy, offering the potential to treat COVID-19 in hospitalized populations more effectively than current SOC alone. Therefore, on-going and planned randomized placebo-controlled studies in combination with SOC and other therapeutics to assess safety and efficacy of IL-6 signal inhibitors in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia will be warranted to address the high unmet need and burden of disease in this severely ill population.
Networks in the balance: an agent-based model of optimal exploitation
Authors: Anjos Fernando , Reagans Ray
Published: October 2020

Using an agent-based simulation, we illustrate how goal-seeking behavior affects network formation, learning, and performance. Our organization has one manager, who decides where to invest financial capital; individual workers, who decide where to work and prefer projects with larger budgets; and projects, which vary in quality. Our manager discovers high-quality projects from interactions with workers and allocates more capital to high-quality projects. When given an opportunity, our workers move to bigger-budget projects. We let our manager vary in terms of how much she exploits what she learns and allow our workers vary in terms of how sensitive they are to differences in capital. Our results highlight a contingency which shapes how goal-seeking behavior affects learning. The contingency is network fragility. Fragile connections decay quickly when individuals are not working together, while robust relationships decay more slowly. When relationships are robust, exploitation by our manager leads to a dense organizational network, improving information quality, and performance. Decisions by self-interested individuals (our manager and our workers) produce a virtuous learning cycle. When relationships are fragile, exploitation by our manager produces a sparse network, reducing information quality, and undermining performance. When network connections are fragile, the manager must find the right balance of exploitation and exploration, a balance which limits the rate at which workers move from one project to the next, allowing the manager to exploit some of what she knows, without undermining the very network which allows for useful information to be obtained.
The Collection of Zoosporic Eufungi at the University of Michigan (CZEUM): introducing a new repository of barcoded Chytridiomyceta and Blastocladiomycota cultures
Authors: Simmons D. Rabern , Bonds Anne E. , Castillo Buck T. , Clemons Rebecca A. , Glasco Alex D. , Myers Jillian M. , Thapa Natasha , Letcher Peter M. , Powell Martha J. , Longcore Joyce E. , James Timothy Y.
Published: October 2020

We formed the Collection of Zoosporic Eufungi at the University of Michigan (CZEUM) in 2018 as a cryopreserved fungal collection consolidating the University of Maine Culture Collection (UMCC, or JEL), the University of Alabama Chytrid Culture Collection (UACCC), and additional zoosporic eufungal accessions. The CZEUM is established as a community resource containing 1045 cryopreserved cultures of Chytridiomycota, Monoblepharidomycota, and Blastocladiomycota, with 52 cultures being ex-type strains. We molecularly characterized 431 cultures by amplifying the majority of the rDNA operon in a single reaction, yielding an average fragment length of 4739 bp. We sequenced multiplexed samples with an Oxford Nanopore Technology MinION device and software, and demonstrate the method is accurate by producing sequences identical to published Sanger sequences. With these data, we generated a phylogeny of 882 zoosporic eufungi strains to produce the most comprehensive phylogeny of these taxa to date. The CZEUM is thus largely characterized by molecular data, which can guide instructors and researchers on future studies of these organisms. Cultures from the CZEUM can be purchased through an online portal.
Tumor Genomic Profiling Practices and Perceptions: A Survey of Physicians Participating in the NCI-MATCH Trial
Authors: Chen Alice , Flaherty Keith , O’Dwyer Peter J. , Giantonio Bruce , Marinucci Donna M. , Lee Ju-Whei , Railey Elda , Smith Mary Lou , White Carol , Conley Barbara
Published: October 2020

PURPOSE

To identify factors that may influence physician participation in tumor profiling studies and to assess the routine use of tumor profiling in clinical practice.

METHODS

Physicians in the National Cancer Institute–Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (NCI-MATCH) were invited to participate in an electronic survey consisting of 73 questions related to participation in genomic profiling studies, tumor profiling practices and education during usual patient care, and physician background and practice characteristics.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 8.9% (171 surveys returned of 1,931 sent). A majority of respondents practiced in academic medical centers (AMCs). Participation in NCI-MATCH increased workload and cost but resulted in increased professional satisfaction, confidence in treatment recommendation, and subsequent use of tumor profiling. Barriers to patient participation included length of wait time for results and lack of a therapeutic option from the testing. Physicians who worked in AMCs reported a higher use of tumor profiling than did those who worked in non-AMC settings (43% v 18%; P = .0009). Access to a molecular tumor board was perceived as valuable by 56%. The study identified a need for educational materials to guide both physicians and patients in the field of genomic profiling.

CONCLUSION

Physicians who participate in NCI-MATCH perceive value to patient treatment that outweighs the additional effort required; survey results help identify barriers that may limit participation. The current findings have implications for the design of future genomic and other profiling studies.
Mental Health in Patients With Adrenal Incidentalomas: Is There a Relation With Different Degrees of Cortisol Secretion?
Authors: Morelli Valentina , Ghielmetti Alberto , Caldiroli Alice , Grassi Silvia , Siri Francesca Marzia , Caletti Elisabetta , Mucci Francesco , Aresta Carmen , Passeri Elena , Pugliese Flavia , Di Giorgio Annabella , Corbetta Sabrina , Scillitani Alfredo , Arosio Maura , Buoli Massimiliano , Chiodini Iacopo
Published: October 2020

Context

Cushing’s syndrome frequently causes mental health impairment. Data in patients with adrenal incidentaloma (AI) are lacking.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate psychiatric and neurocognitive functions in AI patients, in relation to the presence of subclinical hypercortisolism (SH), and the effect of adrenalectomy on mental health.

Design

We enrolled 62 AI patients (64.8 ± 8.9 years) referred to our centers. Subclinical hypercortisolism was diagnosed when cortisol after 1mg-dexamethasone suppression test was >50 nmol/L, in the absence of signs of overt hypercortisolism, in 43 patients (SH+).

Interventions

The structured clinical interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5, and 5 psychiatric scales were performed. The Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (Verbal and Working Memory, Token and Symbol Task, Verbal Fluency, Tower of London) was explored in 26 patients (≤65 years).

Results

The prevalence of psychiatric disorders was 27.4% (SH+ 30.2% vs SH- 21.1%, P = 0.45). SH+ showed a higher prevalence of middle insomnia (by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale) compared with SH- (51% vs 22%, P = 0.039). Considering the Sheehan Disability Scale, SH+ showed a higher disability score (7 vs 3, P = 0.019), higher perceived stress (4.2 ± 1.9 vs 2.9 ± 1.9, P = 0.015), and lower perceived social support (75 vs 80, P = 0.036) than SH-. High perceived stress was independently associated with SH (odds ratio [OR] = 5.46, confidence interval 95% 1.4–21.8, P = 0.016). Interestingly, SH+ performed better in verbal fluency (49.5 ± 38.9 vs 38.9 ± 9.0, P = 0.012), symbol coding (54.1 ± 6.7 vs 42.3 ± 15.5, P = 0.013), and Tower of London (15.1 vs 10.9, P = 0.009) than SH-. In 8 operated SH+, no significant changes were found.

Conclusions

Subclinical hypercortisolism may influence patients’ mental health and cognitive performances, requiring an integrated treatment.