bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal dynamics of mutant huntingtin and neurofilament light in Huntington’s disease: the prospective HD-CSF study
Authors: Rodrigues Filipe B. , Byrne Lauren M. , Tortelli Rosanna , Johnson Eileanoir B. , Wijeratne Peter A. , Arridge Marzena , De Vita Enrico , Ghazaleh Naghmeh , Houghton Richard , Furby Hannah , Alexander Daniel C. , Tabrizi Sarah J. , Schobel Scott , Scahill Rachael I. , Heslegrave Amanda , Zetterberg Henrik , Wild Edward J.
Published: March 2020

The longitudinal dynamics of the most promising biofluid biomarker candidates for Huntington’s disease (HD) – mutant huntingtin (mHTT) and neurofilament light (NfL) – are incompletely defined, but could help understand the natural history of the disease and how these biomarkers might help in therapeutic development and the clinic. In an 80-participant cohort over 24 months, mHTT in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and NfL in CSF and blood, had distinct longitudinal trajectories in HD mutation carriers compared with controls. Baseline analyte values predicted clinical disease status and subsequent clinical progression and brain atrophy, better than did the rate of change in analytes. Overall NfL was a stronger monitoring and prognostic biomarker for HD than mHTT. Nonetheless, mHTT possesses prognostic value and is a valuable pharmacodynamic marker for huntingtin-lowering trials.
Abstinence or controlled drinking – a five-year follow-up on Swedish clients reporting positive change after treatment for substance use disorders
Authors: von Greiff Ninive , Skogens Lisa
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how clients – five years after completing treatment interventions endorsing abstinence – view abstinence and the role of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in their recovery process.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews with 40 clients were conducted shortly after them finishing treatment and five years later. All the interviewees had attended treatment programmes based on the 12-step philosophy, and they all described abstinence as crucial to their recovery process in an initial interview.

Findings

At follow-up, the majority remained abstinent. For many, attending AA meetings was still important – some described attending as a routine, whereas others stressed that the meetings were crucial for remaining abstinent. For those who reported controlled drinking (CD), this was described either as a natural step in their recovery process or as associated with worries and self-doubts.

Research limitations/implications

The results suggest the importance of offering interventions with various treatment goals and that clients choosing CD as part of their sustained recovery would benefit from support in this process, both from peers and professionals.

Originality/value

There are heterogeneous views on the possibilities of CD after recovery from substance use disorder both in research and in treatment systems. This study on client views on abstinence versus CD after treatment advocating total abstinence can contribute with perspectives on this ongoing discussion.
High-involvement HRM practices and innovative work behavior among production-line workers: mediating role of employee's functional flexibility
Authors: Yasir Muhammad , Majid Abdul
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Following “AMO” framework and resource-based theory (RBT), the current study empirically examines the relationships between high-involvement human resource management (HI HRM) practices, employee functional flexibility (FF) and innovative work behavior (IWB). Furthermore, the mediating effect of FF has also been tested.

Design/methodology/approach

Descriptive statistics, correlation, hierarchical regression analysis, baron and Kenny, PROCESS Macro and Sobel Test approach were used on a sample of 894 employees of manufacturing concerns.

Findings

Findings revealed a direct effect of HI HRM practices on FF and IWB. In addition, the results confirm that FF positively mediates between HI HRM practices and IWB. Furthermore, three dimensions of HI HRM practices, i.e. ability-enhancing (AE), motivation-enhancing (ME) and opportunity-enhancing (OE) HRM practices also predicted FF and IWB.

Practical implications

This study not only offers the empirical evidence to validate the findings of past researchers, but also provide insight how HI HRM practices flourish the mechanism of FF in manufacturing concerns. Furthermore, this study highlighted some interesting facts that should be meaningful options for HR managers to enhance the level of employees' FF and IWB.

Originality/value

Although the empirical evidence is well established that HI HRM practices have a substantial contribution for organizational performance, however, there is lack of studies that empirically examine the associations among HI HRM practices, employee's competencies and behaviors, as well as the mechanism through which HI HRM practices affect work related innovative behavior. Finally, in distinguishing from the past studies, this study explores HI HRM practices as an important predictor of FF in addressing the IWB.
Meeting the expectations of the social housing recipients in South Africa: a myth or reality?
Authors: Amoah Christopher , Kajimo-Shakantu Kahilu , Schalkwyk Tanya van
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The majority of South Africans were deprived of participation in the socio-economic activities in decades of the apartheid rule. The ANC government after coming to power in 1994 thus promised to improve the livelihood of people deprived of social intervention benefits by the apartheid regime through the provision of social housing. This research, therefore, sought to investigate if the expectations of the beneficiaries of the social housing scheme have been met by the government.

Design/methodology/approach

The research approach adopted for this study is a quantitative survey. Questionnaires made up of closed-ended and open-ended questions were used to solicit data from 1893 randomly selected government social housing inhabitants in Bloemfontein. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data collected.

Findings

The results indicate that the government has been able to meet the expectation of the social housing recipients in some aspects such as improved living conditions as compared to the shack structures, good sanitary surroundings and a comfortable environment. However, the inhabitant's expectations such as a safe environment, houses with good finishes and fittings, good roads network and adequate houses to accommodate the family sizes have not been met. More so, where respondents acknowledged expectation achievement, they were benchmarking the conditions to the informal settlement (shack) environments rather than being actually happy with what they currently have. Thus, meeting the expectations of the social housing recipients by the government is currently a myth rather than a reality.

Research limitations/implications

The survey was limited to only government social houses inhabitants in communities around the periphery of Bloemfontein, the capital city of the Free State Province of South Africa.

Practical implications

The implication from these findings is that the government has been providing social houses that do not meet the expectation of the recipients since 1994. The government should, therefore, appraise the social housing scheme thoroughly and reconstitute the delivery strategy in order to supply houses that meet the need and expectations of the beneficiaries and thereby fulfilling the goal of improving the living standards of previously disadvantaged individuals through the social housing scheme.

Originality/value

The study has come up with recommendations that if followed by the government supply houses that meet the need and expectations of the beneficiaries and thereby fulfilling the goal of improving the living standards of previously disadvantaged individuals through the social housing scheme and make the programme sustainable.
The determinants of corporate disclosures of anti-money laundering initiatives by Kenyan commercial banks
Authors: Mathuva David , Kiragu Samuel , Barako Dulacha
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the extent and drivers of anti-money laundering (AML) disclosures in the audited annual reports of regional listed banks in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Financial Action Task Force recommendations and other guidelines, the authors develop an AML disclosure index that is used to score the extent of AML disclosures by banks. A sample of 15 listed regional banks in Kenya over the period of 2007-2017 is used. Using this sample, the authors performed fixed-effects regressions to identify the significant determinants of AML disclosures.

Findings

The study establishes a low level of AML disclosures in the audited annual reports of sampled banks. The extent to which the AML disclosures improved across three distinct regulatory regimes over the period of 2007-2017 is reported. The authors find that the AML disclosures are largely driven by corporate governance (board size and audit committee size) and the ratio of diaspora remittances to GDP.

Practical implications

Owing to the global nature of money laundering activities, the study suggests that the Central Bank of Kenya needs to internationalize AML regulations and follow internationally accepted best practices in AML to respond to emerging trends in money laundering and related crimes.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the researchers, this is perhaps the first study to examine the drivers of AML disclosures by banks in a developing economy in the East and Southern African region. Given the global nature of money laundering, the study makes an important and original contribution to the body of knowledge with potential for replication in other jurisdictions. The findings will also form a basis for developing an AML reporting or disclosure framework.
Modelling green productivity spillover effects on sustainability
Authors: Ahmed Elsadig Musa
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explain the integration of innovation and climate with the economic growth Green Productivity (GP) concept. This is drawn from the integration of two important developmental strategies: productivity improvement and environmental protection. Productivity provides the framework for continuous improvement, while environmental protection provides the foundation for sustainable development. Therefore, GP is a strategy for enhancing productivity and environmental performance for overall socio-economic development.

Design/methodology/approach

Three variations of frameworks and econometric model were developed to measure green total factor productivity, green labour productivity and green capital productivity, and their contributions to green productivity and sustainable development; these were based on extensive and intensive growth theories.

Findings

The sustainability of higher economic growth will likely continue to be productivity driven. This will be through the enhancement of total factor productivity (TFP) as technological progress in nations that combined the three dimensions of sustainable development (economic development, environmental protection and social sustainable development via human capital development). Such an enhancement needs to emphasise the quality of the workforce, demand intensity, economic restructuring, capital structure, technical progress and environmental standards. It should be recalled that green productivity through green TFP demonstrates the sustainable development concept of progressing technologically. It will ensure the rights of the future, as well as current, generations for them to enjoy a better life.

Originality/value

The study fills the gaps in growth theories by developing three variations of frameworks and econometric models, and internalising pollutants emissions as private and unpriced inputs in the three models. Further, the green capital productivity model is the sole contributing model developed in this research; it has not been thought about in any previous studies. This study highlighted the green productivity that is ignored by the studies that have been awarded the Nobel Prize in economic sciences in 2018.
Clinical recommendations on diagnosis and treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐induced renal immune‐related adverse events
Authors: Zheng Ke , Qiu Wei , Wang Hanping , Si Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaotong , Zhang Li , Li Xuemei
Published: March 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are nowadays widely used in clinical oncology treatment, and significantly improve the prognosis of cancer patients. However, overactivation of T cells and related signaling pathways caused by ICIs can also induce immune‐related adverse effects (irAEs). Renal immune side‐effects are relatively rare, but some are serious and fatal. Acute kidney injury (AKI), diagnosed mainly by percentage increases in serum creatinine (sCr), is the most common clinical manifestation, while acute tubulointerstitial nephritis (ATIN) is the main cause of ICI‐related AKI. Urinalysis analysis and sediment evaluation, 24 hour urine protein and sCr are helpful in screening and monitoring renal irAEs. Multiple potential causes for AKI are involved during cancer therapy, and should be differentiated from the immune mechanisms of ICIs. Under these circumstances, a renal biopsy should be considered which is essential for clinical decision‐making. Steroids are an effective treatment option for renal irAEs. Most patients who experience ICI‐related ATIN achieve a partial or complete renal recovery with prompt diagnosis and treatment. Multidisciplinary collaborations of different specialists will improve the effectiveness and outcome in the management of ICI irAEs.
Major incident management by helicopter emergency medical services in south‐east Norway from 2000 to 2016: Retrospective cohort study
Authors: Johnsen Anne S. , Samdal Martin , Sollid Stephen , Rehn Marius
Published: March 2020

Background

Helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) and search and rescue helicopters (SAR) aim to bring specialized personnel to major incidents and transport patients to definite care, but their operational pattern remains poorly described. We aim to describe the use of HEMS and SAR in major incidents in Norway and investigate the feasibility of retrospectively collecting uniform data from incident reports.

Methods

We searched HEMS medical databases from three HEMS and one SAR base in south‐east Norway for the written reports of incidents from 2000 to 2016. After incidents were included through consensus in the author group, we collected data as described in majorincidentreporting.org and a previous cross‐sectional study and rated availability of the variables.

Results

From a total of 31 803 missions, we identified 50 (0.16%) major incidents with HEMS/SAR involvement where road traffic accidents were the most common type of incident (n = 28, 56%), and rural area was the most prevalent location (n = 35, 70%). Inter‐agency cooperation was common and HEMS contributed most often with treatment and transport. The majority of information was found in the free‐text area in the medical records hereby increasing the risk for rater variability.

Conclusion

Major incidents are rare in Norway. HEMS and SAR play an important role in incident logistics, cooperation with other agencies, treatment and transport of patients and should be included in major incident plans. Retrospective data collection is challenging as data variables are not systematically integrated into the database. Future research should focus on systematic data gathering and a system for sharing lessons learned.
Muscle atrophy‐related myotube‐derived exosomal microRNA in neuronal dysfunction: Targeting both coding and long noncoding RNAs
Authors: Yang Chia‐Pei , Yang Wan‐Shan , Wong Yu‐Hui , Wang Kai‐Hsuan , Teng Yuan‐Chi , Chang Ming‐Hsuan , Liao Ko‐Hsun , Nian Fang‐Shin , Chao Chuan‐Chuan , Tsai Jin‐Wu , Hwang Wei‐Lun , Lin Ming‐Wei , Tzeng Tsai‐Yu , Wang Pei‐Ning , Campbell Mel , Chen Liang‐Kung , Tsai Ting‐Fen , Chang Pei‐Ching , Kung Hsing‐Jien
Published: March 2020

In mammals, microRNAs can be actively secreted from cells to blood. miR‐29b‐3p has been shown to play a pivotal role in muscle atrophy, but its role in intercellular communication is largely unknown. Here, we showed that miR‐29b‐3p was upregulated in normal and premature aging mouse muscle and plasma. miR‐29b‐3p was also upregulated in the blood of aging individuals, and circulating levels of miR‐29b‐3p were negatively correlated with relative appendicular skeletal muscle. Consistently, miR‐29b‐3p was observed in exosomes isolated from long‐term differentiated atrophic C2C12 cells. When C2C12‐derived miR‐29b‐3p‐containing exosomes were uptaken by neuronal SH‐SY5Y cells, increased miR‐29b‐3p levels in recipient cells were observed. Moreover, miR‐29b‐3p overexpression led to downregulation of neuronal‐related genes and inhibition of neuronal differentiation. Interestingly, we identified HIF1α‐AS2 as a novel c‐FOS targeting lncRNA that is induced by miR‐29b‐3p through down‐modulation of c‐FOS and is required for miR‐29b‐3p‐mediated neuronal differentiation inhibition. Our results suggest that atrophy‐associated circulating miR‐29b‐3p may mediate distal communication between muscle cells and neurons.
Prostate cancer upgrading with serial prostate magnetic resonance imaging and repeat biopsy in men on active surveillance: are confirmatory biopsies still necessary?
Authors: Osses Daniël F. , Drost Frank‐Jan H. , Verbeek Jan F.M. , Luiting Henk B. , van Leenders Geert J.L.H. , Bangma Chris H. , Krestin Gabriel P. , Roobol Monique J. , Schoots Ivo G.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate whether serial prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may guide the utility of repeat targeted (TBx) and systematic biopsy (SBx) when monitoring men with low‐risk prostate cancer (PCa) at 1‐year of active surveillance (AS).

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively included 111 consecutive men with low‐risk (International Society of Urological Pathology [ISUP] Grade 1) PCa, who received protocolled repeat MRI with or without TBx and repeat SBx at 1‐year of AS. TBx was performed in Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (PI‐RADS) score ≥3 lesions (MRI‐positive men). Upgrading defined as ISUP Grade ≥2 PCa (I), Grade ≥2 with cribriform growth/intraductal carcinoma PCa (II), and Grade ≥3 PCa (III) was investigated. Upgrading detected by TBx only (not by SBx) and SBx only (not by TBx) was investigated in MRI‐positive and ‐negative men, and related to radiological progression on MRI (Prostate Cancer Radiological Estimation of Change in Sequential Evaluation [PRECISE] score).

Results

Overall upgrading (I) was 32% (35/111). Upgrading in MRI‐positive and ‐negative men was 48% (30/63) and 10% (5/48) (P < 0.001), respectively. In MRI‐positive men, there was upgrading in 23% (seven of 30) by TBx only and in 33% (10/30) by SBx only. Radiological progression (PRECISE score 4–5) in MRI‐positive men was seen in 27% (17/63). Upgrading (I) occurred in 41% (seven of 17) of these MRI‐positive men, while this was 50% (23/46) in MRI‐positive men without radiological progression (PRECISE score 1–3) (P = 0.534). Overall upgrading (II) was 15% (17/111). Upgrading in MRI‐positive and ‐negative men was 22% (14/63) and 6% (three of 48) (P = 0.021), respectively. In MRI‐positive men, there was upgrading in three of 14 by TBx only and in seven of 14 by SBx only. Overall upgrading (III) occurred in 5% (five of 111). Upgrading in MRI‐positive and ‐negative men was 6% (four of 63) and 2% (one of 48) (P = 0.283), respectively. In MRI‐positive men, there was upgrading in one of four by TBx only and in two of four by SBx only.

Conclusion

Upgrading is significantly lower in MRI‐negative compared to MRI‐positive men with low‐risk PCa at 1‐year of AS. In serial MRI‐negative men, the added value of repeat SBx at 1‐year surveillance is limited and should be balanced individually against the harms. In serial MRI‐positive men, the added value of repeat SBx is substantial. Based on this cohort, SBx is recommended to be performed in combination with TBx in all MRI‐positive men at 1‐year of AS, also when there is no radiological progression.
Coronavirus pandemic and colorectal surgery: practical advice based on the Italian experience
Authors: Di Saverio S. , Pata F. , Gallo G. , Carrano F. , Scorza A. , Sileri P. , Smart N. , Spinelli A. , Pellino G.
Published: March 2020

Aim

The current COVID‐19 pandemic is challenging healthcare systems at a global level. We provide a practical strategy to reorganize pathways of emergency and elective colorectal surgery during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

The authors, all from areas affected by the COVID‐19 emergency, brainstormed remotely to define the key‐points to be discussed. Tasks were assigned, concerning specific aspects of colorectal surgery during the pandemic, including the administrative management of the crisis in Italy. The recommendations (based on experience and on the limited evidence available) were collated and summarized.

Results

Little is known about the transmission of COVID‐19, but it has shown a rapid spread. It is prudent to stop non‐cancer procedures and prioritize urgent cancer treatment. Endoscopy and proctological procedures should be performed highly selectively. When dealing with colorectal emergencies, a conservative approach is advised. Specific procedures should be followed when operating on COVID‐19‐patients, using dedicated personal protective equipment and adhering to specific rules. Some policies are described, including minimally‐invasive surgery. These policies outline the strict regulation of entry/ exit into theatres and operating building as well as advice on performing procedures safely to reduce risk of spreading the virus. It is likely that a reorganization of health system is required, both at central and local levels. A description of the strategy adopted in Italy is provided.

Conclusion

Evidence on the management of patients needing surgery for colorectal conditions during the COVID‐19 pandemic is currently lacking. Lessons learnt from healthcare professionals that have managed high volumes of surgical patients during the pandemic could be useful to mitigate some risks and reduce exposure to other patients, public and healthcare staff.
Depression, family interaction and family intervention in adolescents at clinical‐high risk for psychosis
Authors: Rinne Gabrielle R. , O'Brien Mary P. , Miklowitz David J. , Addington Jean M. , Cannon Tyrone D.
Published: March 2020

Aim

The relationship between family behaviour and depression in adolescents at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis remains understudied despite high rates of depression in this population. This study examines the relationship between family problem‐solving behaviours and depression in CHR adolescents and the impact of family interventions targeting subthreshold symptoms of psychosis on reducing symptoms of depression over 2‐years.

Methods

Participants were a subset of the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study who were randomized to 6‐months of family focused therapy for individuals at CHR or family psychoeducational treatment. We evaluated the relationship between communication during family conflict discussion and adolescents' symptoms of depression before treatment. At follow‐up assessments the family treatment groups were compared on depression. Finally, we compared those in family treatment with matched controls.

Results

Adolescents' constructive communication was associated with less severe symptoms of depression before treatment. Symptoms of depression improved for adolescents in both family treatment groups. However, there were no significant group by treatment interactions. When adolescents who participated in either type of family intervention were compared to CHR adolescent controls, symptoms of depression improved for adolescents in treatment and control groups, but there were no significant time by treatment interactions.

Conclusions

The communication skills of CHR adolescents are related to both depression and their parents' communication skills pre‐treatment. However, reductions in depression over the course of the treatment trial cannot be attributed to family treatment. It is imperative to incorporate interventions that directly target depression into future family treatment studies.
Accounting for profitable prevention—The case of social investments
Authors: Lagström Cristian , Ek Österberg Emma
Published: March 2020

Contemporary developments in public administration imply an increasingly multifaceted and intangible context for public service delivery. Yet, there is a continued emphasis on calculative devices in this changing public landscape which urge for a broadened perspective, beyond that of New Public Management (NPM), on the role and consequences of accounting in the attainment of public goals, in particular, in relation till wicked problems. This article reports an in‐depth study of social investments, a governing model which aims to make visible the value of long‐term effects of preventive social work. The article focuses on microlevel dynamics and activities undertaken by key actors during the implementation process, using an institutional work perspective, in particular, the concepts of political, technical, and cultural work. The analysis shows that the ambition to calculate the profit of preventive social work was largely underpinned and facilitated by a problematization of NPM features. This supports recent calls for further research on public sector accounting that explores, rather than presumes, the logics and rationales to which accounting techniques are connected. The study also complements literature on wicked problems by linking the use and perceived usefulness of calculative practices with the attempts of attaining complex goals in the public arena.
Friction Layer Analysis of a Surface Acoustic Wave Motor
Authors: Yu Tai-Ho
Published: March 2020

This study applied appropriate assumptions to simplify a surface acoustic wave (SAW) motor model, as well as the elastic friction layer concept to analyze the two-dimensional contact problem. The effect of inertial force was factored into the equation of motion for the friction layer; the relationship between external force and the displacement of the friction layer surface was determined via Fourier transform; and the displacement field under different loads was analyzed using numerical methods. Based on the friction theory proposed by Armstrong, the relative velocity of the friction layer between the slider and stator was considered in the relationship between the normal and tangential forces acting on both contact surfaces. Finally, the deformation and the contact forces acting on the friction layer were evaluated by assuming the displacement of the stator substrate.
Tuned Sloshing Dampers With Large Rectangular Core Penetrations
Authors: Love J. S. , McNamara K. P. , Tait M. J. , Haskett T. C.
Published: March 2020

Space restrictions at the top of tall buildings may necessitate using tuned sloshing dampers (TSD) tanks with large rectangular penetrations to accommodate the structural core of the tower. A finite element model is employed to predict the natural sloshing frequencies and mode shapes of liquid sloshing in a rectangular tank with a rectangular core. Equivalent mechanical properties are determined to predict the sloshing response. Frequency response predictions of wave heights, sloshing forces, and energy-dissipation per cycle agree with results from shake table testing conducted on a rectangular tank with a rectangular core. Energy dissipation due to flow around the core adds considerable damping to the liquid and is proportional to the response velocity-squared. Nonlinear coupling among sloshing modes results in multiple peaks in the frequency response plots near the fundamental resonant frequency. An interior core with a broad dimension in one direction substantially reduces the fundamental sloshing frequency and equivalent mechanical mass in the perpendicular direction; however, the fundamental sloshing frequency and equivalent mechanical mass in the parallel direction are only influenced marginally. Large rectangular cores reduce the proportion of the total water mass that is effective in controlling tower motion. A TSD with a rectangular penetrating core may enable a TSD option to be considered for the control of a tall building in cases where a traditional rectangular TSD is infeasible.
Quantifying SARS-CoV-2 transmission suggests epidemic control with digital contact tracing
Authors: Ferretti Luca , Wymant Chris , Kendall Michelle , Zhao Lele , Nurtay Anel , Abeler-Dörner Lucie , Parker Michael , Bonsall David , Fraser Christophe
Published: March 2020

Instantaneous contact tracing

New analyses indicate that severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is more infectious and less virulent than the earlier SARS-CoV-1, which emerged in China in 2002. Unfortunately, the current virus has greater epidemic potential because it is difficult to trace mild or presymptomatic infections. As no treatment is currently available, the only tools that we can currently deploy to stop the epidemic are contact tracing, social distancing, and quarantine, all of which are slow to implement. However imperfect the data, the current global emergency requires more timely interventions. Ferretti
et al.
explored the feasibility of protecting the population (that is, achieving transmission below the basic reproduction number) using isolation coupled with classical contact tracing by questionnaires versus algorithmic instantaneous contact tracing assisted by a mobile phone application. For prevention, the crucial information is understanding the relative contributions of different routes of transmission. A phone app could show how finite resources must be divided between different intervention strategies for the most effective control.

Science
, this issue p.
eabb6936
Spectrum of Beta-Lactamase Inhibition by the Cyclic Boronate QPX7728, an Ultrabroad-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor of Serine and Metallo-Beta-Lactamases: Enhancement of Activity of Multiple Antibiotics against Isogenic Strains Expressing Single Beta-Lactamases
Authors: Lomovskaya Olga , Tsivkovski Ruslan , Nelson Kirk , Rubio-Aparicio Debora , Sun Dongxu , Totrov Maxim , Dudley Michael N.
Published: March 2020

QPX7728 is an ultrabroad-spectrum boronic acid beta-lactamase inhibitor, with potent inhibition of key serine and metallo-beta-lactamases being observed in biochemical assays. Microbiological studies using characterized strains were used to provide a comprehensive characterization of the spectrum of beta-lactamase inhibition by QPX7728. The MICs of multiple antibiotics administered intravenously only (ceftazidime, piperacillin, cefepime, ceftolozane, and meropenem) and orally bioavailable antibiotics (ceftibuten, cefpodoxime, tebipenem) alone and in combination with QPX7728 (4 μg/ml), as well as comparator agents, were determined against panels of laboratory strains of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
expressing over 55 diverse serine and metallo-beta-lactamases.
Supplemental Material: Geophysical analysis of the 30 July 1972 Sitka, Alaska, earthquake sequence
Authors: Ochoa Chavez Juan A. , Doser Diane
Published: March 2020

Supplemental Material 1 contains relocated aftershocks of 30 July 1972 sequence. Supplemental Material 2 contains relocation parameters used in double-difference algorithm (HYPODD).
Predictive factors for time to full enteral feeding after pyloromyotomy for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Authors: Eriksson David , Salö Martin
Published: March 2020

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate how different parameters in the preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative period affect time to full enteral feeding (TFEF) in children undergoing pyloromyotomy.

Methods

A retrospective study of all children operated for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis between 2001 and 2017 was conducted. Parameters in demographics and in the preoperative and postoperative period were evaluated against TFEF (hours) using linear regression models.

Results

In the whole cohort of 175 children, mean TFEF was 47 hours with Standard Deviation (SD) of ±35. In the multivariate model, TFEF decreased with age [beta (B): −0.62; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) −1.05 to −0.19; p=0.005) and increased with the presence of severe underlying disease (congenital heart defect or syndrome) (B: 26.5; 95% CI 3.3 to 49.7; p=0.026). Hence, for every day of age, the time to fully fed decreased by 0.6 hour, and the presence of an underlying disease increased the time to fully fed with over one day. TFEF did not seem to be affected by prematurity, weight loss, symptom duration, preoperative acid/base balance or electrolyte values, surgical method, or method of postoperative feeding.

Conclusions

TFEF decreased with higher age and increased in children with a severe underlying disease. These results may be useful in providing adequate parental information regarding what affects TFEF and the length of hospital stay.
Transition of a spherical vortex to a Dirac monopole with fractional topological charge
Authors: Altarawneh Derar , Faber Manfried , Höllwieser Roman
Published: March 2020

We study topological properties of classical spherical center vortices with the low-lying eigenmodes of the Dirac operator in the fundamental and adjoint representations using both the overlap and asqtad staggered fermion formulations. We find some evidence for fractional topological charge during cooling the spherical center vortex on a [Formula: see text] lattice. We identify the object with topological charge [Formula: see text] as a Dirac monopole with a gauge field fading away at large distances. Therefore, even for periodic boundary conditions, it does not need an anti-monopole.
Scattering of quantum fields by a MOG black hole
Authors: Sporea Ciprian A.
Published: March 2020

This paper aims to investigate the scattering of fermions by spherically symmetric MOG black holes, which are a type of black holes encountered in scalar–tensor–vector modified gravitational theories. After determining the scattering modes in this black hole geometry, we apply the partial wave method to compute analytical expressions for the phase shifts that enter into the definition of scattering amplitudes. An analysis of the influence of the MOG parameter [Formula: see text] on the differential scattering cross-section and the induced polarization is conducted. Also, a comparison with Schwarzschild scattering (for which [Formula: see text]) is performed. Furthermore, it is also shown that glory and spiral/orbiting scattering are more significant for higher values of the free parameter [Formula: see text].
Optical bright, dark and dipole solitons with derivative nonlinearity in the presence of parity-time-symmetric lattices
Authors: Zubair Asad , Raza Nauman
Published: March 2020

This paper deals with the study of optical solitons in the presence of new linear and nonlinear parity-time [Formula: see text]-symmetric modulation lattices. The nonlinear medium is a derivative term with arbitrary power. Inverse engineering scheme is utilized to retrieve bright, dark, dipole and singular soliton solutions. These solutions are presented for four new [Formula: see text]-symmetric potentials. The results reveal that optical bright, dark and dipole solitons can exist for those new physical settings.
An Unusual Simultaneous Existence of Parathyroid Carcinoma and Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Lam-Chung César Ernesto , Rodríguez-Orihuela Diana Lizbeth , Anda González Jazmín De , Gamboa-Domínguez Armando
Published: March 2020

Synchronous parathyroid and papillary thyroid carcinoma are extremely rare. To our knowledge, only 15 cases have been reported in the last four decades. We describe a 50-year-old female without significant past medical or family history and no previous trauma presented with left heel pain that prompted her to seek medical attention. Physical examination was notable for a painless nodule at the left thyroid lobe. Laboratory evaluation showed a serum calcium level of 14.3 mg/dL (8.6–10.3 mg/dL) and intact parathyroid hormone level of 1160 pg/mL (12–88 pg/mL). 99Tc-sestamibi dual-phase with single-photon emission computed tomography fused images showed increased uptake at the left-sided inferior parathyroid gland. Neck ultrasound showed a 1.4 cm heterogeneous nodule in the middle-third of the left thyroid gland and a solitary 1.9 cm vascularized and hypoechoic oval nodule that was considered likely to represent a parathyroid adenoma. Due to its clinical context (severe hypercalcemia and very high levels of PTH), parathyroid carcinoma (PC) was suspected although imaging studies were not characteristic. The patient underwent en bloc resection of the parathyroid mass and left thyroid lobe and central neck compartment dissection. Pathology analysis revealed classical papillary thyroid carcinoma of classical subtype and parathyroid carcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for cyclidin D1 and negative for parafibromin. High clinical suspicion is required for parathyroid carcinoma diagnosis in the presence of very high level of parathyroid hormone, marked hypercalcemia, and the existence of any thyroid nodule should be approached and the coexistence of other carcinomas should be considered.
Ultrasonography of the Vagus Nerve in the Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Laucius Ovidijus , Balnytė Renata , Petrikonis Kęstutis , Matijošaitis Vaidas , Jucevičiūtė Neringa , Vanagas Tadas , Danielius Vytautas
Published: March 2020

Background. It is currently impossible to diagnose Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the premotor phase even though at the time of motor symptom onset the number of already degenerated dopaminergic substantia nigra neurons is considerable. Degeneration of the dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve (VN) has been reported early in the disease course, and it could lead to impaired function of the VN, resulting in certain nonmotor symptoms of PD. Therefore, we raised a hypothesis that the loss of VN neurons could result in a smaller diameter of the VN among PD patients. Methods. 20 PD patients and 20 age- and gender-matched individuals without any neurodegenerative disease were enrolled in a pilot study. The diameters of the right and left VNs were measured using ultrasonography, their average was calculated, and the narrower VN diameter was noted separately. Results. No difference was found between the PD and control groups neither in the average VN diameter (mean 1.17; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–1.24 vs. 1.13; 1.07–1.18, mm; p=0.353) nor in the narrower VN diameter (mean 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–1.20 vs. 1.07; 1.02–1.13, mm; p=0.421). The narrower VN diameter and the average VN diameter were not able to distinguish between PD patients and controls (area under curve (AUC) = 0.588, 95% CI = 0.408–0.767, and p=0.344; and AUC = 0.578, 95% CI = 0.396–0.759, and p=0.402). Conclusions. To conclude, no differences were found in VN diameter between the PD and control groups. Therefore, our data do not support the hypothesis that PD could be associated with a smaller diameter of the VN.
Patients’ Perspective of Comprehensive Parkinson Care in Rural Victoria
Authors: Iansek Robert , Danoudis Mary
Published: March 2020

Introduction. There is a higher prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in rural Australia and a poorer perceived quality of life of rural Australians with PD. Coordinated multidisciplinary teams specialised and experienced in the treatment of PD are recommended as the preferred model of care best able to manage the complexities of this disorder. There remains a lack of team-based specialised PD services in rural Australia available to people living with PD. This study aims to explore how the lack of specialised PD services impacts on the person’s experiences of the health care they receive in rural Victoria. This study compared the health-care experiences of two different cohorts of people with PD living in rural Victoria; one cohort living in East Gippsland have had an established comprehensive care model implemented with local trained teams and supported by a metropolitan PD centre, and the other cohort was recruited from the remainder of Victoria who had received standard rural care. Methods. This descriptive study used a survey to explore health-care experiences. Questionnaires were mailed to participants living in rural Victoria. Eligibility criteria included having a diagnosis of PD or Parkinsonism and sufficient English to respond to the survey. The validated Patient-Centred Questionnaire for PD was used to measure health-care experiences. The questions are grouped accordingly under one of the 6 subscales or domains. Outcomes from the questionnaire included summary experience scores (SES) for 6 subscales; overall patient-centeredness score (OPS); and quality improvement scores (QIS). Secondary outcomes included health-related quality of life using the disease-specific questionnaire PDQ39; disease severity using the Hoehn and Yahr staging tool; and disability using the Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale, part II. Results. Thirty-nine surveys were returned from the East Gippsland group and 68 from the rural group. The East Gippsland group rated significantly more positive the subscales “empathy and PD expertise,” P=0.02, and “continuity and collaboration of professionals,” P=0.01. The groups did not differ significantly for the remaining 4 subscales (P>0.05) nor for the OPS (P=0.17). The QIS showed both groups prioritised the health-care aspect “provision of tailored information” for improvement. Quality of life was greater (P<0.05) and impairment (P=0.012) and disability were less (P=0.002) in the East Gippsland group. Conclusion. Participants who received health care from the East Gippsland program had better key health-care experiences along with better QOL and less impairment and disability. Participants prioritised provision of information as needing further improvement.
Symmetry Groups, Similarity Reductions, and Conservation Laws of the Time-Fractional Fujimoto–Watanabe Equation Using Lie Symmetry Analysis Method
Authors: Guo Baoyong , Dong Huanhe , Fang Yong
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the time-fractional Fujimoto–Watanabe equation is investigated using the Riemann–Liouville fractional derivative. Symmetry groups and similarity reductions are obtained by virtue of the Lie symmetry analysis approach. Meanwhile, the time-fractional Fujimoto–Watanabe equation is transformed into three kinds of reduced equations and the third of which is based on Erdélyi–Kober fractional integro-differential operators. Furthermore, the conservation laws are also acquired by Ibragimov’s theory.
Mechanical Properties of Weathered Feldspar Sandstone after Experiencing Dry‐Wet Cycles
Authors: An Wen-bo , Wang Laigui , Chen He
Published: March 2020

Weathering is one of the important geological hazards to many stone cultural relics carved on feldspar sandstone (such as the Datong Yungang Grottoes). To study the mechanical properties of the weathered Yungang Grottoes, feldspar sandstone was subjected to comparative dry‐wet cycle tests with water‐rock interaction (Group A) and salt‐rock interaction (Group B). The variation patterns of the macroscopic physical and mechanical parameters as well as the micro/mesoscopic structures of the two groups of feldspar sandstone with the number of dry‐wet cycles were measured. The results showed that for the Group A and Group B sandstones, as the number of dry‐wet cycles increased the saturated water absorption and the longitudinal wave velocity increased, with the maximum variation rates reaching 28.02%, 36.98%, 16.20%, and 33.27%. The peak strength and elastic modulus gradually decreased, with the maximum variation rate reaching 48.53%, 73.44%, 26.61%, and 72.39%. The surface height deviation increased by as much as 1.06 μm and 3.34 μm. The mechanism of weathering for the water‐rock interaction included three effects, namely, the hydrolysis of the K‐Na feldspar, the water swelling of the clay minerals such as kaolinite, and the dissolution of the soluble minerals. The mechanism of weathering for the salt‐rock interaction included salt crystallization in the pores or fissures and chemical reactions between the minerals (such as feldspar and calcite) and sulfate, in addition to the above three effects. Therefore, the crystallization stress of the salt exerted the most notable effect on the deterioration of the feldspar sandstone. The results are expected to provide a reference for the stability evaluation and protection of the rock mass of the Grottoes.
Primary Angiosarcoma of the Thyroid in an Asian Woman: A Case Report with Review of the Literature
Authors: Huang Shih-Hsuan , Wu Shang-Chung
Published: March 2020

Primary thyroid angiosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor and characterized by its prevalence in Alpine regions of Central Europe, close relation to longstanding goiter, and aggressive clinical course with dismal prognosis. We describe the case of an 83-year-old Chinese female who lives in the coastal area of Taiwan. She came to our hospital due to a progressively enlarged mass at her anterior neck. The sonography of the thyroid revealed a well-circumscribed mass in the left lobe. She underwent left hemithyroidectomy. The diagnosis of angiosarcoma of the thyroid was made and further confirmed at a different institution. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of primary thyroid angiosarcoma reported from Taiwan and the sixth Asian afflicted with primary thyroid angiosarcomas in the English literatures. The literature search in the PubMed database identified 58 cases who had histologically proven primary thyroid angiosarcomas. A preliminary analysis of epidemiological presentation, clinical features, immunohistochemical characters, and prognosis of primary thyroid angiosarcoma was proposed. The prognosis of this rare neoplasm is surprisingly favorable in comparison with that of its morphological similar, the anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. The use of a comprehensive panel of immunohistochemical stains, including at least two endothelial markers (especially CD31 and ERG) and PAX-8, in combination with thorough light microscopic examination may assist in the discrimination between these two tumors.
Paquimeningitis relacionada con IgG4 y la visión. Reporte de caso
Authors: Paredes Jalil Diego Ignacio , Salgado Alarcón Cristián , Liberman Salazar Paulina , Chahuan Abde José Miguel
Published: March 2020

Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 51 años que consulta por disminución de agudeza visual, escotoma central en ojo izquierdo y edema de papila bilateral. Se encuentran signos compatibles con paquimeningitis en la resonancia nuclear magnética. También presenta aumento de presión de apertura en la punción lumbar. En el estudio de laboratorio se observa un aumento en los niveles plasmáticos de IgG4, lo cual llevó al diagóstico de paquimeningitis relacionada con IgG4. La paciente fue tratada con corticoides y azatioprina, con excelente evolución posterior al normalizar agudeza visual y campos visuales. En este artículo se describen tres elementos importantes a considerar en estos pacientes: pérdida de visión, edema de discos ópticos y cambios en campo visual.
Δοκιµάζω in 1 Corinthians 11:28–29 within the Ancient Mediterranean Context
Authors: Suh Michael K.W.
Published: March 2020

In 1 Corinthians 11:28–29, Paul refers to the need for a person “to examine” (δοκιµάζω) oneself and “to discern” (διακρίνω) the body prior to participating in the meal. These are important terms and yet modern scholarship fails to provide a convincing explanation of Paul’s language. This article considers the use of these terms within the ancient Mediterranean, and more specifically, Greek, context as relevant background material to understand why Paul adopts this language in this section of 1 Corinthians. It will then explicate the import of this language in understanding Paul’s rhetoric in the broader section of the letter that is 1 Cor 11:17–34.