bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening for atrial fibrillation: predicted sensitivity of short, intermittent electrocardiogram recordings in an asymptomatic at-risk population
Authors: Quer Giorgio , Freedman Ben , Steinhubl Steven R
Published: June 2020

Aims

Screening for asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) could prevent strokes and save lives, but the AF burden of those detected can impact prognosis. New technologies enable continuous monitoring or intermittent electrocardiogram (ECG) snapshots, however, the relationship between AF detection rates and the burden of AF found with intermittent strategies is unknown. We simulated the likelihood of detecting AF using real-world 2-week continuous ECG recordings and developed a generalizable model for AF detection strategies.

Methods and results

From 1738 asymptomatic screened individuals, ECG data of 69 individuals (mean age 76.3, median burden 1.9%) with new AF found during 14 days continuous monitoring were used to simulate 30 seconds ECG snapshots one to four times daily for 14 days. Based on this simulation, 35–66% of individuals with AF would be detected using intermittent screening. Twice-daily snapshots for 2 weeks missed 48% of those detected by continuous monitoring, but mean burden was 0.68% vs. 4% in those detected (P < 0.001). In a cohort of 6235 patients (mean age 69.2, median burden 4.6%) with paroxysmal AF during clinically indicated monitoring, simulated detection rates were 53–76%. The Markovian model of AF detection using mean episode duration and mean burden simulated actual AF detection with ≤9% error across the range of screening frequencies and durations.

Conclusion

Using twice-daily ECG snapshots over 2 weeks would detect only half of individuals discovered to have AF by continuous recordings, but AF burden of those missed was low. A model predicting AF detection, validated using real-world data, could assist development of optimized AF screening programmes.
The Coevolution of Fungal Mitochondrial Introns and Their Homing Endonucleases (GIY-YIG and LAGLIDADG)
Authors: Megarioti Amalia H , Kouvelis Vassili N
Published: June 2020

Fungal mitochondrial (mt) genomes exhibit great diversity in size which is partially attributed to their variable intergenic regions and most importantly to the inclusion of introns within their genes. These introns belong to group I or II, and both of them are self-splicing. The majority of them carry genes encoding homing endonucleases, either LAGLIDADG or GIY-YIG. In this study, it was found that these intronic homing endonucleases genes (HEGs) may originate from mt free-standing open reading frames which can be found nowadays in species belonging to Early Diverging Fungi as “living fossils.” A total of 487 introns carrying HEGs which were located in the publicly available mt genomes of representative species belonging to orders from all fungal phyla was analyzed. Their distribution in the mt genes, their insertion target sequence, and the phylogenetic analyses of the HEGs showed that these introns along with their HEGs form a composite structure in which both selfish elements coevolved. The invasion of the ancestral free-standing HEGs in the introns occurred through a perpetual mechanism, called in this study as “aenaon” hypothesis. It is based on recombination, transpositions, and horizontal gene transfer events throughout evolution. HEGs phylogenetically clustered primarily according to their intron hosts and secondarily to the mt genes carrying the introns and their HEGs. The evolutionary models created revealed an “intron-early” evolution which was enriched by “intron-late” events through many different independent recombinational events which resulted from both vertical and horizontal gene transfers.
Combining a High Dose of Metformin With the SIRT1 Activator, SRT1720, Reduces Life Span in Aged Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Palliyaguru Dushani L , Minor Robin K , Mitchell Sarah J , Palacios Hector H , Licata Jordan J , Ward Theresa M , Abulwerdi Gelareh , Elliott Peter , Westphal Christoph , Ellis James L , Sinclair David A , Price Nathan L , Bernier Michel , de Cabo Rafael
Published: June 2020

SRT1720, a sirtuin1-activator, and metformin (MET), an antidiabetic drug, confer health and life-span benefits when administered individually. It is unclear whether combination of the two compounds could lead to additional benefits. Groups of 56-week-old C57BL/6J male mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) alone or supplemented with either SRT1720 (2 g/kg food), a high dose of MET (1% wt/wt food), or a combination of both. Animals were monitored for survival, body weight, food consumption, body composition, and rotarod performance. Mice treated with MET alone did not have improved longevity, and life span was dramatically reduced by combination of MET with SRT1720. Although all groups of animals were consuming similar amounts of food, mice on MET or MET + SRT1720 showed a sharp reduction in body weight. SRT1720 + MET mice also had lower percent body fat combined with better performance on the rotarod compared to controls. These data suggest that co-treatment of SRT1720 with MET is detrimental to survival at the doses used and, therefore, risk-benefits of combining life-span-extending drugs especially in older populations needs to be systematically evaluated.
Watchdog 2.0: New developments for reusability, reproducibility, and workflow execution
Authors: Kluge Michael , Friedl Marie-Sophie , Menzel Amrei L , Friedel Caroline C
Published: June 2020

Background

Advances in high-throughput methods have brought new challenges for biological data analysis, often requiring many interdependent steps applied to a large number of samples. To address this challenge, workflow management systems, such as Watchdog, have been developed to support scientists in the (semi-)automated execution of large analysis workflows.

Implementation

Here, we present Watchdog 2.0, which implements new developments for module creation, reusability, and documentation and for reproducibility of analyses and workflow execution. Developments include a graphical user interface for semi-automatic module creation from software help pages, sharing repositories for modules and workflows, and a standardized module documentation format. The latter allows generation of a customized reference book of public and user-specific modules. Furthermore, extensive logging of workflow execution, module and software versions, and explicit support for package managers and container virtualization now ensures reproducibility of results. A step-by-step analysis protocol generated from the log file may, e.g., serve as a draft of a manuscript methods section. Finally, 2 new execution modes were implemented. One allows resuming workflow execution after interruption or modification without rerunning successfully executed tasks not affected by changes. The second one allows detaching and reattaching to workflow execution on a local computer while tasks continue running on computer clusters.

Conclusions

Watchdog 2.0 provides several new developments that we believe to be of benefit for large-scale bioinformatics analysis and that are not completely covered by other competing workflow management systems. The software itself, module and workflow repositories, and comprehensive documentation are freely available at https://www.bio.ifi.lmu.de/watchdog.
Acoustic-to-seismic ground coupling: coupling efficiency and inferring near-surface properties
Authors: Novoselov Artemii , Fuchs Florian , Bokelmann Goetz
Published: June 2020

A fraction of the acoustic wave energy (from the atmosphere) may couple into the ground, and it can thus be recorded as ground motion using seismometers. We have investigated this coupling, with two questions in mind, (i) how strong it is for small explosive sources and offsets up to a few tens of meters and (ii) what we can learn about the shallow subsurface from this coupling. 25 firecracker explosions and five rocket explosions were analysed using colocated seismic and infrasound sensors; we find that around 2 per cent of the acoustic energy is admitted into the ground (converted to seismic energy). Transfer coefficients are in the range of 2.85–4.06 nm Pa–1 for displacement, 1.99–2.74 μm s–1 Pa–1 for velocity, and 2.2–2.86 mm s−2 Pa–1 for acceleration. Recording dynamic air pressure together with ground motion at the same site allows identification of different waves propagating in the shallow underground, notably the seismic expression of the direct airwave, and the later air-coupled Rayleigh wave. We can reliably infer shallow ground properties from the direct airwave, in particular the two Lamé constants (λ and μ) and the Poisson ratio. Firecrackers as pressure sources allow constraining elastic parameters in the top-most layer. In this study, they provide frequency-dependent values of λ decreasing from 119 MPa for low frequencies (48 Hz) to 4.2 MPa for high frequencies (341 Hz), and μ values decreasing from 33 to 1.8 MPa. Frequency-dependent Poisson ratios ν are in the range of 0.336–0.366.
Spatial genome architecture and the emergence of malignancy
Authors: Danieli Adi , Papantonis Argyris
Published: June 2020

Human chromosomes are large spatially and hierarchically structured entities, the integrity of which needs to be preserved throughout the lifespan of the cell and in conjunction with cell cycle progression. Preservation of chromosomal structure is important for proper deployment of cell type-specific gene expression programs. Thus, aberrations in the integrity and structure of chromosomes will predictably lead to disease, including cancer. Here, we provide an updated standpoint with respect to chromatin misfolding and the emergence of various cancer types. We discuss recent studies implicating the disruption of topologically associating domains, switching between active and inactive compartments, rewiring of promoter–enhancer interactions in malignancy as well as the effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms in non-coding regions involved in long-range regulatory interactions. In light of these findings, we argue that chromosome conformation studies may now also be useful for patient diagnosis and drug target discovery.
An endoscopic repair of residual post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect
Authors: Laskawski Grzegorz , Abdelbar Abdelrahman , Zacharias Joseph
Published: June 2020

Post-myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a serious condition that is, fortunately, less diagnosed nowadays due to the advances in early diagnosis and treatment of ischaemic heart disease (incidence 1–2%). Despite the lower mortality of both surgical and interventional closure of the defect (25%) as compared to medical therapy (40–50%), there are still risks of residual leak in both approaches. Herein, we describe a case of a successful endoscopic-assisted repair of a delayed residual leak post-MI VSD after surgical repair. An attempt for interventional closure of the leaking point had failed; an endoscopic-assisted minimal access closure was successfully performed.
Rescue of a Deep Burned Elbow Using a Radial Forearm Pedicled Flap, an Original Irrigation System and a Specific Immobilization
Authors: Benayoun Marie , Dutot Marie-Charlotte , Aboud Céline , Serror Kévin , Chaouat Marc , Mimoun Maurice , Boccara David
Published: June 2020

Deep soft tissue defects next to the joints can rapidly lead to irreversible damages and have to be covered urgently and effectively. In severely burned patients the usual approach is to use a flap even though it has its limitations in regards to the extent of the burn and the general condition of the patient. A 27-year-old male was admitted at the Burn Treatment Center for a thermic burn of 72% of his BSA. At first he has benefited from several skin grafts and later on a major open right elbow had to be treated urgently to rescue the joint. After the burn, a revascularization of the donor site was noticed, sufficient to use the radial forearm pedicled flap as a cover for the elbow. This case reports an innovative approach based on the use of an irrigation and drainage system placed underneath the flap. The elbow was rigidly immobilized with an external fixator in order to facilitate an optimal healing of the flap. In this case, the choice of this flap, combined with the irrigation and drainage system and the immobilization by external fixation, provided an original and efficient treatment. Postoperatively the healing of the flap and of the donor site was complete. The functional results exceeded the expectations with a complete recovery of the joint amplitude. Thus, in case of no other therapeutic options, it is probably possible to use a variety of flaps recently healed.
Mortality of Potato Psyllid (Hemiptera: Triozidae) on Host Clippings Inoculated With Ergot Alkaloids
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Cooper W Rodney , Duringer Jennifer M , Rashed Arash , Badillo-Vargas Ismael E , Esparza-Díaz Gabriela , Horton David R
Published: June 2020

Our previous study provided correlative evidence that morning glory species harboring endophytic fungi (Periglandula) are resistant to potato psyllid [Bactericera cockerelli (Šulc)], whereas species free of fungi often allowed psyllid development. In this study, we manipulated levels of ergot alkaloids in host tissues by inoculating clippings from potato plants with extracts from morning glories that harbor Periglandula [Ipomoea leptophylla Torrey, Ipomoea imperati (Vahl) Grisebach, Ipomoea tricolor Cavanilles, Ipomoea pandurata (L.) G. F. Meyer, and Turbina corymbosa (L.)] and one species (Ipomoea alba L.) that does not harbor the endophyte. Ergot alkaloids (clavines, lysergic acid amides, and ergopeptines) were detected in potato clippings, thus confirming that leaves had taken up compounds from solutions of crude extracts. Psyllid mortality rates on inoculated clippings ranged between 53 and 93% in treatments producing biochemically detectable levels of alkaloids, when compared with 15% mortality in water controls or the alkaloid-free I. alba. We then tested synthetic analogs from each of the three alkaloid classes that had been detected in the crude extracts. Each compound was assayed by inoculating clippings of two host species (potato and tomato) at increasing concentrations (0, 1, 10, and 100 µg/ml in solution). Psyllids exhibited a large and significant increase in mortality rate beginning at the lowest two concentrations, indicating that even very small quantities of these chemicals led to mortality. Feeding by nymphs on artificial diets containing synthetic compounds resulted in 100% mortality within 48 h, irrespective of compound. Further testing of ergot alkaloids to characterize the mode of action that leads to psyllid mortality is warranted.
Sexual dimorphism in skeletal shape in voles (Arvicolinae): disparate selection on male bodies and female heads
Authors: Morris Jeremy S , Rogers Nala , Rogers Alan R , Carrier David R
Published: June 2020

Sexual dimorphism evolves as a response to different selective pressures on males and females. In mammals, sexual selection on traits that improve a male’s ability to compete for access to mates is a common cause of sexual dimorphism. In addition to body mass, adaptations in specific components of the musculoskeletal system that increase strength, stability, and agility, may improve male fighting performance. Here we test the hypotheses that males, when compared to females, are more specialized for physical competition in their skeletal anatomy and that the degree of this sexual dimorphism increases with the intensity of male–male competition. In three species of voles (Cricetidae: Arvicolinae: Microtus), we found partial support for these hypotheses. Male-biased sexual dimorphism in a set of functional indices associated with improved fighting performance was identified in the postcranial anatomy. This dimorphism was greatest in the polygynous Microtus californicus, absent in the monogamous M. ochrogaster, and intermediate in the promiscuous or socially flexible M. oeconomus. However, in the skull, we found results opposite to our predictions. Females had larger skulls relative to overall skeletal size than did males. This may be associated with selection for increased food processing efficiency, which should be highly important because of the compounding effects of increased caloric requirements during gestation and lactation, and the generally low-quality diet of voles. In addition, larger heads in females may be associated with selection for greater digging ability or for defending offspring. These results suggest disparate selective pressures on the postcranial skeletons and skulls of male and female voles.
A real ball ache: a case report of acute pancreatitis with an unusual sequelae of events
Authors: Brar Sabrina , Watters Carolina
Published: June 2020

Acute pancreatitis may present with a myriad of clinical and radiological manifestations. Assessment of the severity and prognosis of the disease is often based on clinical features, laboratory analysis and computer tomography (CT) scans; however, the predictive value of CT is not 100% accurate. We report herein a case with an especially rare sequence of clinical events, manifesting as a septic fluid collection within the inguinal canal that was misdiagnosed as an inguinal hernia on CT imaging. The patient underwent surgical drainage and an orchidectomy to treat the infection. This case illustrates the complexity and severity of acute pancreatitis as well as the challenges in interpreting and relying on diagnostic radiological data.
Falciform ligament use in perforated duodenal ulcer repair: a case report and literature review
Authors: Elgazar Amr , Awad Ahmed K , Elseidy Sheref A
Published: June 2020

Acute perforated duodenal ulcers are considered one of the most encountered emergency surgical conditions leading to mortality. Different approaches have been proposed for management based on the clinical status of the patient. The use of omental patch closure is widely accepted either via an open or laparoscopic approach. However, not all patients are candidates owing to the availability and viability of the greater omentum. In these patients, the falciform ligament can be used as an alternative and efficient method for repair. In this case, we present a male patient with a perforated ulcer in the first part of the duodenum which was managed by falciform ligament patch instead of the usual omental patch. In cases of a deficient or unhealthy greater omentum, or if it cannot be brought in the upper part of the abdominal cavity due to severe adhesions, the falciform ligament can be used efficiently in the closure of perforated duodenal ulcer.
The grapevine NIP2;1 aquaporin is a silicon channel
Authors: Noronha Henrique , Silva Angélica , Mitani-Ueno Namiki , Conde Carlos , Sabir Farzana , Prista Catarina , Soveral Graça , Isenring Paul , Ma Jian Feng , Bélanger Richard R , Gerós Hernâni
Published: June 2020

Silicon (Si) supplementation has been shown to improve plant tolerance to different stresses, and its accumulation in the aerial organs is mediated by NIP2;1 aquaporins (Lsi channels) and Lsi2-type exporters in roots. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that grapevine expresses a functional NIP2;1 that accounts for root Si uptake and, eventually, Si accumulation in leaves. Own-rooted grapevine cuttings of the cultivar Vinhão accumulated >0.2% Si (DW) in leaves when irrigated with 1.5 mM Si for 1 month, while Si was undetected in control leaves. Real-time PCR showed that VvNIP2;1 was highly expressed in roots and in green berries. The transient transformation of tobacco leaf epidermal cells mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens confirmed VvNIP2;1 localization at the plasma membrane. Transport experiments in oocytes showed that VvNIP2;1 mediates Si and arsenite uptake, whereas permeability studies revealed that VvNIP2;1 expressed in yeast is unable to transport water and glycerol. Si supplementation to pigmented grape cultured cells (cv. Gamay Freáux) had no impact on the total phenolic and anthocyanin content, or on the growth rate and VvNIP2;1 expression. Long-term experiments should help determine the extent of Si uptake over time and whether grapevine can benefit from Si fertilization.
Theoretical studies of comets in the 55 Cancri system
Authors: Dvorak Rudolf , Loibnegger Birgit , Cuntz Manfred
Published: June 2020

We present orbital integrations for various Jupiter family comets (JFCs) in the 55 Cancri system. This star is known to possess (at least) five planets with masses ranging from super-Earth to Jupiter-type. Furthermore, according to observational constraints, there is a space without planets between ∼0.8 and ∼5.7 au, offering the principal possibility of habitable terrestrial planets, including long-term orbital stability. Hence, there is a stark motivation for the study of comets in the 55 Cnc system noting that comets are viewed a viable candidate mechanism for the delivery of water to Earth-type planets located in stellar habitable zones. However, our study shows that the duration of stability of JFC analogues in the 55 Cnc system is much shorter compared to comets in the Solar system owing to profound differences in the planetary structure of the systems. For example, between planet 55 Cnc-f and 55 Cnc-d, the comets do not undergo close cometary encounters akin to the Earth and Mars in the Solar system as the planetary masses in the 55 Cnc system are much larger than in the Solar system and therefore the comets are much less orbitally stable. Nevertheless, we expect an increased number of comet–planet encounters as well as cometary collisions in the 0.8/5.7 au gap. Future observations and additional theoretical studies are required to shed light on the possibility of habitable terrestrial planets in the 55 Cnc system, including the possible role(s) of exocomets in the facilitation of planetary habitability.
Spectral line list of potential cosmochronological interest deduced from new calculations of radiative transition rates in singly ionized thorium (Th ii)
Authors: Gamrath S , Godefroid M R , Palmeri P , Quinet P , Wang K
Published: June 2020

In this work, we report a list of 91 strong Th ii spectral lines in the visible wavelength region that could be used as cosmochronometers in future investigations to determine stellar ages from thorium radioactive decay. This list was established on the basis of a pseudo-relativistic Hartree–Fock model including core-polarization corrections (HFR+CPOL) allowing us to compute the corresponding radiative decay parameters, the latter being found to be in good overall agreement with the most accurate experimental data when available. Besides this semi-empirical approach, the fully relativistic ab initio multiconfiguration Dirac–Hartree–Fock (MCDHF) method was attempted, showing large discrepancies with both the present HFR+CPOL and the most recent experimental oscillator strengths, although the calculated wavelengths from theoretical energy levels agreed with observed spectral line wavelengths within 2.4  per cent.
The γ-ray deposition histories of core-collapse supernovae
Authors: Sharon Amir , Kushnir Doron
Published: June 2020

The γ-ray deposition history in an expanding supernova (SN) ejecta has been mostly used to constrain models for Type Ia SN. Here we expand this methodology to core-collapse SNe, including stripped envelope (SE; Type Ib/Ic/IIb) and Type IIP SNe. We construct bolometric light curves using photometry from the literature and we use the Katz integral to extract the γ-ray deposition history. We recover the tight range of γ-ray escape times, $t_0\approx 30\!-\!45\, \textrm {d}$, for Type Ia SNe, and we find a new tight range $t_0\approx 80\!-\!140\, \textrm {d}$, for SE SNe. Type IIP SNe are clearly separated from other SNe types with $t_0\gtrsim 400\, \textrm {d}$, and there is a possible negative correlation between t0 and the synthesized 56Ni mass. We find that the typical masses of the synthesized 56Ni in SE SNe are larger than those in Type IIP SNe, in agreement with the results of Kushnir. This disfavours progenitors with the same initial mass range for these explosions. We recover the observed values of ET, the time-weighted integrated luminosity from cooling emission, for Type IIP, and we find hints of non-zero ET values in some SE SNe. We apply a simple γ-ray radiation transfer code to calculate the γ-ray deposition histories of models from the literature, and we show that the observed histories are a powerful tool for constraining models.
The relative orientation between the magnetic field and gradients of surface brightness within thin velocity slices of 12CO and 13CO emission from the Taurus molecular cloud
Authors: Heyer M , Soler J D , Burkhart B
Published: June 2020

We examine the role of the interstellar magnetic field to modulate the orientation of turbulent flows within the Taurus molecular cloud using spatial gradients of thin velocity slices of 12CO and 13CO antenna temperatures. Our analysis accounts for the random errors of the gradients that arise from the thermal noise of the spectra. The orientations of the vectors normal to the antenna temperature gradient vectors are compared to the magnetic field orientations that are calculated from Planck 353 GHz polarization data. These relative orientations are parameterized with the projected Rayleigh statistic and mean resultant vector. For 12CO,   strongly parallel and strongly perpendicular relative orientations are found in 28 percent and 39 percent of the cloud area respectively. For the lower opacity 13CO emission, strongly parallel and strongly perpendicular orientations are found in 7 per cent and 43 per cent of the cloud area, respectively. For both isotopologues, strongly parallel or perpendicular alignments are restricted to localized regions with low levels of turbulence. If the relative orientations serve as an observational proxy to the Alfvénic Mach number then our results imply local variations of the Alfvénic Mach number throughout the cloud.
Constraints on features in the inflationary potential from future Euclid data
Authors: Debono Ivan , Hazra Dhiraj Kumar , Shafieloo Arman , Smoot George F , Starobinsky Alexei A
Published: June 2020

With Planck cosmic microwave background observations, we established the spectral amplitude and tilt of the primordial power spectrum. Evidence of a red spectral tilt (ns = 0.96) at 8σ provides strong support for the inflationary mechanism, especially the slow roll of the effective scalar field in its nearly flat potential as the generator of scalar primordial perturbations. With the next generation of large-scale structure surveys, we expect to probe primordial physics beyond the overall shape and amplitude of the main, smooth, and slowly changing part of the inflaton potential. Using the specifications for the upcoming Euclid survey, we investigate to what extent we can constrain the inflation potential beyond its established slow-roll behaviour. We provide robust forecasts with Euclid and Planck mock data from nine fiducial power spectra that contain suppression and wiggles at different cosmological scales, using the Wiggly Whipped Inflation (WWI) framework to generate these features in the primordial spectrum. We include both Euclid cosmic shear and galaxy clustering, with a conservative cut-off for non-linear scales. Using Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations, we obtain an improvement in constraints in the WWI potential, as well an improvement for the background cosmology parameters. We find that apart from improving the constraints on the overall scale of the inflationary potential by 40–50 per cent, we can also identify oscillations in the primordial spectrum that are present within intermediate to small scales ($k\sim 0.01\!-\!0.2\, \mathrm{Mpc^{-1}}$).
The Parliament as a Gendered Workplace: How to Research Legislators’ (UN)Equal Opportunities to Represent
Authors: Erikson Josefina , Josefsson Cecilia
Published: June 2020

In this article, we introduce a Gendered Workplace Approach for studying the gendered nature of parliaments. This approach, which is informed by a feminist institutionalist perspective, addresses the potentially gendered character of both formal and informal institutions that regulate the inner workings of parliament, taking into consideration the obstacles and opportunities facing MPs of different genders. From a gender perspective, our framework focuses on five dimensions of paramount importance for MPs’ working conditions. These are (i) the organisation of work, (ii) tasks and assignments, (iii) leadership, (iv) infrastructure and (v) interaction between MPs.
Localising Global Norms: The Case of Family-Friendly Parliaments
Authors: Palmieri Sonia , Baker Kerryn
Published: June 2020

In this article, we extend empirical understandings of feminist institutionalism by outlining a new methodological approach to the study of parliament as a gendered workplace. We argue that while a localised approach to studying institutional change allows a more nuanced appreciation of the role of local cultural context, internationalised norms can be an interesting starting point to work back from. A case study of the New Zealand parliament’s ‘family-friendly’ workplace practices illustrates this methodological approach. By tracing the establishment of family-friendly practices in this parliament, our study shines a light on the intractable nature of local institutional context in global norm diffusion and hints at the next phase of work required to further the agenda of transformational gender-sensitive parliaments.
Two parallel short forms to measure disease- and treatment-associated knowledge in rheumatoid arthritis: application of item response theory
Authors: Spijk-de Jonge Marieke J , Oude Voshaar Martijn A H , Renskers Lisanne , Huis Anita M P , van de Laar Mart A F J , Hulscher Marlies E J L , van Riel Piet L C M
Published: June 2020

Objective

The aim was to develop two disease- and treatment-related knowledge about RA (DataK-RA) short forms using item response theory-based linear optimal test design.

Methods

We used the open source Excel add-in solver to program a linear optimization algorithm to develop two short forms from the DataK-RA item bank. The algorithm was instructed to optimize precision (i.e. reliability) of the scores for both short forms, subject to a number of constraints that served to ensure that each short form would include unique items and that the short forms would have similar psychometric properties. Agreement among item response theory scores obtained from the different short forms was assessed using the Bland–Altman method and Student’s paired t-test. Construct validity and relative efficiency of the short forms was evaluated by relating the score to age, sex and educational attainment.

Results

Two short forms were derived from the DataK-RA item bank that satisfied all content constraints. Both short forms included 15 unique items and yielded reliable scores (r > 0.70), with low ceiling and floor effects. The short forms yielded statistically indistinguishable mean scores according to Student’s paired t-test and Bland–Altman analysis. Scores on short forms 1 and 2 were associated with age, sex and educational attainment to a similar extent.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed two DataK-RA short forms with unique items, yet similar psychometric properties, that can be used to assess patients pre- and post-test interventions aimed at improving disease-related knowledge in RA patients.
Broad proteomic screen reveals shared serum proteomic signature in patients with psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis without arthritis
Authors: Leijten Emmerik , Tao Weiyang , Pouw Juliette , van Kempen Tessa , Olde Nordkamp Michel , Balak Deepak , Tekstra J , Muñoz-Elías Ernesto , DePrimo Samuel , Drylewicz Julia , Pandit Aridaman , Boes Marianne , Radstake Timothy
Published: June 2020

Objective

To identify novel serum proteins involved in the pathogenesis of PsA as compared with healthy controls, psoriasis (Pso) and AS, and to explore which proteins best correlated to major clinical features of the disease.

Methods

A high-throughput serum biomarker platform (Olink) was used to assess the level of 951 unique proteins in serum of patients with PsA (n = 20), Pso (n = 18) and AS (n = 19), as well as healthy controls (HC, n = 20). Pso and PsA were matched for Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and other clinical parameters.

Results

We found 68 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in PsA as compared with HC. Of those DEPs, 48 proteins (71%) were also dysregulated in Pso and/or AS. Strikingly, there were no DEPs when comparing PsA with Pso directly. On the contrary, hierarchical cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling revealed that HC clustered distinctly from all patients, and that PsA and Pso grouped together. The number of swollen joints had the strongest positive correlation to ICAM-1 (r = 0.81, P < 0.001) and CCL18 (0.76, P < 0.001). PASI score was best correlated to PI3 (r = 0.54, P < 0.001) and IL-17 receptor A (r = –0.51, P < 0.01). There were more proteins correlated to PASI score when analysing Pso and PsA patients separately, as compared with analysing Pso and PsA patients pooled together.

Conclusion

PsA and Pso patients share a serum proteomic signature, which supports the concept of a single psoriatic spectrum of disease. Future studies should target skin and synovial tissues to uncover differences in local factors driving arthritis development in Pso.
Clinical features of IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis among 407 patients with IgG4-related disease: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yanying , Zhu Lijuan , Wang Zhenfan , Zeng Qiaozhu , Yang Fei , Gao Jingyuan , Wang Ziqiao , Wang Kunkun , Ren Limin , Zhang Yanyan , Zhang Shanshan , Wang Yi , Shen Danhua , Xia Changsheng , Yu Guangyan , Li Zhanguo
Published: June 2020

Objectives

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is recently recognized as a fibro-inflammatory condition featured by tumefactive lesions in multiple organs, and the retroperitoneum is one of the common involved sites. We undertook this study to compare detailed demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics of IgG4-RD patients with retroperitoneum lesion (IgG4-RD RPF+) and retroperitoneum free IgG4-RD (IgG4-RD RPF−) in a large cohort.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective review of the medical records of 407 cases of IgG4-RD diagnosed at Peking University People’s Hospital between March 2009 and May 2019.

Results

Among 407 patients, 58 had retroperitoneum affected. As compared with IgG4-RD RPF− patients, IgG4-RD RPF+ patients showed older age at disease onset and diagnosis. IgG4-RD RPF+ group involved more male patients. In terms of organ involvement, IgG4-RD RPF+ group was more frequently presented with kidney involvement, while salivary gland, lacrimal gland and pancreas were more prominent in the IgG4-RD RPF− group. In addition, the CRP, ESR level and creatinine level were significantly higher in IgG4-RD RPF+ patients, and hypocomplementemia were more common in this group.

Conclusion

We have revealed demographic, clinical and laboratory differences between IgG4-RD RPF+ and RPF− patients, which indicated potential differences in pathogenesis and important implications for the diagnosis and management of these two phenotypes.
Effects of HF-rTMS over the left and right DLPFC on proactive and reactive cognitive control
Authors: Pulopulos Matias M , Allaert Jens , Vanderhasselt Marie-Anne , Sanchez-Lopez Alvaro , De Witte Sara , Baeken Chris , De Raedt Rudi
Published: June 2020

Previous research supports the distinction between proactive and reactive control. Although the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has been consistently related to these processes, lateralization of proactive and reactive control is still under debate. We manipulated brain activity to investigate the role of the left and right DLPFC in proactive and reactive cognitive control. Using a single-blind, sham-controlled crossover within-subjects design, 25 young healthy females performed the ‘AX’ Continuous Performance Task after receiving sham vs active high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (HF-rTMS) to increase left and right DLPFC activity. Reaction times (RTs) and pupillometry were used to assess patterns of proactive and reactive cognitive control and task-related resource allocation, respectively. We observed that, compared to sham, HF-rTMS over the left DLPFC increased proactive control. After right DLPFC HF-rTMS, participants showed slower RTs on AX trials, suggesting more reactive control. However, this latter result was not supported by RTs on BX trials (i.e. the trial that specifically assess reactive control). Pupil measures showed a sustained increase in resource allocation after both active left and right HF-rTMS. Our results with RT data provide evidence on the role of the left DLPFC in proactive control and suggest that the right DLPFC is implicated in reactive control.
Gendered Logics of Biomedical Research: Women in U.S. Phase I Clinical Trials
Authors: Cottingham Marci D , Fisher Jill A
Published: June 2020

Despite the importance of including diverse populations in biomedical research, women remain underrepresented as healthy volunteers in the testing of investigational drugs in Phase I trials. Contributing significantly to this are restrictions that pharmaceutical companies place on the participation of women of so-called childbearing potential. These restrictions have far-reaching effects on biomedical science and public health. Using 191 interviews collected over three years, this article explores the experiences of 47 women who navigate restrictions on their participation in U.S. Phase I trials. Women in this context face a number of contradictory criteria when trying to enroll, which can curtail their participation, justify additional surveillance, and deny pregnant women reproductive agency. The pharmaceutical industry’s putative protections for hypothetical fetuses exacerbate inequalities and attenuate a thorough investigation of the safety of their drugs for public consumption. We use the framework of “anticipatory motherhood” within a gendered organizations approach to make sense of women’s experiences in this context.
Pathotype, Resistance Classification, and Seed-Coating Control of Heterodera avenae and H. filipjevi in the North China Plain
Authors: Cui Jiangkuan , Jiao Yongqing , Zhou Bo , Ren Haohao , Li Hao , Liu Shiming , Jiang Shijun , Meng Haoguang , Li Minmin , Dababat Abdelfattah Amer , Peng Deliang
Published: June 2020

Heterodera avenae and H. filipjevi are cereal cyst nematodes (CCNs) that infect cereals in 16 provinces of China. CCN populations from Xuchang, Tangyin, Qihe, and Juye were tested using 23 barley, oat, and wheat entries of the International Test Assortment for Defining Cereal Cyst Nematode Pathotypes. H. avenae populations from Tangyin, Qihe, and Juye were classified as pathotype Ha91, and H. filipjevi from Xuchang was classified as a new pathotype similar to pathotype West. Among 42 other winter wheat cultivars, 29 and 30 were differentially susceptible, 13 and 12 were differentially resistant to H. avenae and H. filipjevi, respectively. Three entries were resistant to both species, and three other entries were resistant to H. avenae and moderately resistant to H. filipjevi. Coating wheat seed with abamectin + isopycnic imidacloprid or methylene (bis) thiocyanate + thiamethoxam reduced the number of H. avenae and H. filipjevi cysts by 46 to 56%, increased wheat yield by 9 to 27%, and improved net income by 660 to 2,640 Chinese Yuan ha−1, respectively. Resistant wheat cultivars are scarce in China, and seed coating is considered the most suitable method for controlling CCNs in the North China Plain, where crop rotation cannot be practiced.
Tar Spot: An Understudied Disease Threatening Corn Production in the Americas
Authors: Valle-Torres J. , Ross T. J. , Plewa D. , Avellaneda M. C. , Check J. , Chilvers M. I. , Cruz A. P. , Dalla Lana F. , Groves C. , Gongora-Canul C. , Henriquez-Dole L. , Jamann T. , Kleczewski N. , Lipps S. , Malvick D. , McCoy A. G. , Mueller D. S. , Paul P. A. , Puerto C. , Schloemer C. , Raid R. N. , Robertson A. , Roggenkamp E. M. , Smith D. L. , Telenko D. E. P. , Cruz C. D.
Published: June 2020

Tar spot of corn has been a major foliar disease in several Latin American countries since 1904. In 2015, tar spot was first documented in the United States and has led to significant yield losses of approximately 4.5 million t. Tar spot is caused by an obligate pathogen, Phyllachora maydis, and thus requires a living host to grow and reproduce. Due to its obligate nature, biological and epidemiological studies are limited and impact of disease in corn production has been understudied. Here we present the current literature and gaps in knowledge of tar spot of corn in the Americas, its etiology, distribution, impact and known management strategies as a resource for understanding the pathosystem. This will in turn guide current and future research and aid in the development of effective management strategies for this disease.
Arterial and Venous Cerebral Blood Flow Velocities and Their Correlation in Healthy Volunteers and Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Authors: Cardim Danilo , Czosnyka Marek , Chandrapatham Karthikka , Badenes Rafael , Bertuccio Alessandro , Corradi Francesco , Donnelly Joseph , Pelosi Paolo , Hutchinson Peter J. , Robba Chiara
Published: June 2020

Background:

Few studies have explored the cerebral venous compartment or the correlation between venous and arterial cerebral blood flows. We aimed to correlate cerebral blood flow velocities in the arterial (middle cerebral artery) and venous (straight sinus) compartments in healthy volunteers and traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. In addition, we determined the normative range of these parameters.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 122 healthy volunteers and 95 severe TBI patients of both sexes were included and stratified into 3 age groups as follows: group 1 (aged, 18 to 44 y); group 2 (aged, 45 to 64 y); group 3 (older than 65 y). Transcranial Doppler systolic cerebral blood flow velocity, diastolic cerebral blood flow velocity, and mean cerebral blood flow velocity (FVs, FVd, FVm, respectively) were measured in the middle cerebral artery and peak cerebral venous blood flow velocity (FVVs) was measured in the straight sinus. The arteriovenous correlation was assessed on the basis of a positive relationship between FVs and FVVs.

Results:

There was an arteriovenous correlation (FVs vs. FVVs) in healthy volunteers (R=0.39, P<0.0001). We found no arteriovenous correlation in the TBI cohort overall, but FVs and FVVs were correlated in age group 1 (R=0.28, P=0.05) and in males (R=0.29, P=0.01). In healthy volunteers, FVs and FVm were significantly higher in males compared with females; and FVs, FVm, FVd, FVVs all increased across the age spectrum. There were no significant differences in any of these parameters in TBI patients.

Conclusions:

There are age and sex differences in arterial and venous cerebral blood flow velocities in healthy volunteers. Arteriovenous correlation is present in healthy volunteers but absent in TBI patients.
Medial Epicondyle Fractures: Biomechanical Evaluation and Clinical Comparison of 3 Fixation Methods Used in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Rickert Kathleen D. , Sarrel Kara L. , Sanders Julia S. , Jeffords Megan E. , Hughes Jessica L. , Upasani Vidyadhar V. , Farnsworth Christine L. , Edmonds Eric W. , Pennock Andrew T.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Screw fixation is the most commonly employed fixation strategy for displaced medial epicondyle fractures, but in younger patients with minimal ossification, the fracture fragment may not accommodate a screw. In these situations, Kirschner-wires (K-wire) or suture anchors may be utilized as alternatives. The purposes of this study were to examine the biomechanical properties of medial epicondyle fractures fixed with a screw, K-wires, or suture anchors, to evaluate clinical outcomes and complications of patients 10 years of age or younger treated with these approaches, and to perform a cost-analysis.

Methods:

Biomechanical assessment: Immature pig forelimbs underwent an osteotomy through the medial epicondyle apophysis, simulating a fracture. These were then fixed with a screw, K-wires or suture anchors. Cyclic elongation (mm), displacement (mm), load to failure (N), and stiffness (N/mm) were assessed. Clinical assessment: a retrospective review was performed of patients 10 years of age or younger with a medial epicondyle fracture fixed with these strategies. Radiographic outcomes, postoperative data and complications were compared. These data were used to perform a cost-analysis of each treatment approach.

Results:

Biomechanically, screws were stronger (P=0.047) and stiffer (P=0.01) than the other constructs. Clinically, 51 patients met inclusion criteria (screw=27, wires=11, anchor=13). Patients treated with K-wires were younger (P<0.05) and patients treated with screw fixation had a shorter casting duration (P=0.008). Irrespective of treatment strategy, all fractures healed (100%) and only 1 patient in the screw group lost reduction. Clinical outcomes and complications were similar between groups, but the suture anchor group was less likely to require a second surgery for implant removal (P<0.05). This lower reoperation rate led to a cost-saving of 10%.

Conclusions:

Biomechanically, all 3 approaches provided initial fixation exceeding the forces observed across the elbow joint with routine motion. The screw construct was the strongest and stiffest. Clinically, all 3 strategies were acceptable, with screw fixation offering a shorter casting duration, but greater implant removal need with higher associated costs.
Less Can Be More When Targeting Interleukin-6-Mediated Cytokine Release Syndrome in Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Betts Brian C. , Young James W.
Published: June 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 is a worldwide public health emergency that will have a lasting generational impact in terms of mortality and economic devastation. Social distancing to prevent viral transmission and supportive care of infected patients are the main interventions now available. This global health crisis therefore merits innovative therapies. Cytokine release syndrome mediated by interleukin-6 is a critical driver of coronavirus disease 2019 mortality. Herein, we review and discuss key immunologic effects of direct interleukin-6 blockade, downstream nonselective Janus kinase inhibition, and selective Janus kinase 2 suppression to treat coronavirus disease 2019–related cytokine release syndrome. We provide evidence that selective targeting of interleukin-6 or Janus kinase 2 is well informed by existing data. This contrasts with broad, nonselective blockade of Janus kinase-mediated signaling, which would inhibit both deleterious and beneficial cytokines, as well as critical host antiviral immunity.