bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Too many cooks in the kitchen? The contingent curvilinear effect of shared leadership on multidisciplinary healthcare team innovation
Authors: Mitchell Rebecca , Boyle Brendan
Published: July 2020

Shared leadership and multidisciplinary teams are advocated for their capacity to develop innovative solutions to important organisational challenges. However, research suggests that the impact of shared leadership is somewhat ambiguous, leading us to propose a curvilinear inverted U‐shaped effect on multidisciplinary team innovation. Furthermore, we posit that this curvilinearity is contingent on awareness of member profession, specifically the salience of professional identity. Using a sample of 60 multidisciplinary healthcare teams, we investigated a model in which shared leadership has a curvilinear effect on innovation contingent on professional salience. Support for our hypotheses attempts to account for ambiguities in the impact of shared leadership and provides guidance for human resource management strategies to enhance multidisciplinary team innovation.
Macrophage activation syndrome in pediatrics: 10 years data from an Indian center
Authors: Pal Priyankar , Bathia Jigna , Giri Prabhas Prasun , Roy Mandira , Nandi Alolika
Published: July 2020

Aims

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a dreaded complication of systemic inflammatory diseases and is most commonly seen in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA). We evaluate the clinical features, laboratory findings and outcomes in pediatric MAS, assess the response to different pharmacological therapies, and finally identify possible factors associated with an unfavorable outcome.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of data from patients diagnosed as having MAS, admitted between July 2008 and April 2018 into the Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Institute Of Child Health Kolkata. The data noted were the clinical and laboratory features, treatment details, responses to therapy and outcomes.

Results

Thirty‐one patients were diagnosed as having MAS. Primary illness was sJIA in 26 (84%), systemic lupus erythematosus in 4 (13%) and Kawasaki disease (KD) in 1 (3%). All had fever with varying degrees of multisystemic involvement. Hyperferritinemia was universally present. Pulse methylprednisolone with cyclosporine was used for treating the majority. Ten patients (32%) expired.

Conclusion

Macrophage activation syndrome is a near fatal complication with protean manifestations and multiorgan dysfunction. Hyperferritinemia is characteristic, higher values being associated with increased mortality. Cases resistant to steroids and cyclosporine had a poor prognosis. Late presentations with multiorgan dysfunction were associated with the poorest outcomes.
pycoalescence and rcoalescence: Packages for simulating spatially explicit neutral models of biodiversity
Authors: Thompson Samuel E. D. , Chisholm Ryan A. , Rosindell James
Published: July 2020

Neutral theory proposes that some macroscopic biodiversity patterns can be explained in terms of drift, speciation and immigration, without invoking niches. There are many different varieties of neutral model, all assuming that the fitness of an individual is unrelated to its species identity. Variants that are spatially explicit provide a means for making quantitative predictions about spatial biodiversity patterns.

We present software packages that make spatially explicit neutral simulations straightforward and efficient. The packages allow the user to customize both dispersal and landscape structure in a wide variety of ways. We provide a Python package pycoalescence and a functionally equivalent R package rcoalescence. In both packages, the core routines are written in C++ and make use of coalescence methods to optimize performance.

We explain the technical details of the packages and give examples for their application, with a particular focus on two scenarios of ecological and evolutionary interest—a landscape with habitat fragmentation, and an archipelago of islands.

Spatially explicit neutral models represent an important tool in ecology for understanding the processes of biodiversity generation and predicting outcomes at large scales. The effort required to implement these complex spatially explicit simulations efficiently has thus far been a barrier to entry. Our packages increase the accessibility of these models and encourage further investigation of the primary mechanisms underpinning biodiversity.
Culturally tailored evidence‐based substance use disorder treatments are efficacious with an American Indian Southwest tribe: an open‐label pilot‐feasibility randomized controlled trial
Authors: Venner Kamilla L. , Serier Kelsey , Sarafin Ruth , Greenfield Brenna L. , Hirchak Katherine , Smith Jane Ellen , Witkiewitz Katie
Published: July 2020

Background and Aims

Many evidence‐based treatments (EBTs) for substance use disorder (SUD) exist, yet few are tailored to Indigenous patients. This trial tested the efficacy of a culturally tailored EBT that combined Motivational Interviewing and the Community Reinforcement Approach (MICRA) versus treatment as usual (TAU).

Design

A mixed efficacy/effectiveness randomized controlled trial of MICRA (n = 38) and TAU (n = 41) using a parallel design with follow‐up assessments at 4‐, 8‐, and 12‐ months post baseline.

Setting

United States, reservation‐based outpatient, addiction specialty care treatment program.

Participants

79 (68% male) American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) Tribal members meeting criteria for SUD and seeking SUD treatment.

Interventions

MICRA (individual therapy sessions beginning with MI for 2–3 sessions) compared with TAU (individual and group counseling sessions in a didactic style with Twelve‐Step philosophy and elements of relapse prevention).

Measures

Demographics, percent days abstinent (PDA; the primary outcome at 12months assessed by Form 90D), Inventory of Drug Use Consequences, Alcohol and Drug Use Self‐Efficacy Scale, Native American Spirituality Scale, and SCID‐DSM‐IV‐TR.

Findings

There was no evidence for the benefit of MICRA over TAU (MICRA PDA = 72.63%, TAU = 73.62%, treatment effect: B = −4.04 (SE = 5.47); 95% CI = −14.941, 6.866; BF = 3.44) in the primary outcome. Both groups showed improvements in PDA, SUD severity, and negative consequences from baseline to the 12‐month follow‐up. Neither self‐efficacy nor spirituality were significant mediators of MICRA.

Conclusions

There were no treatment group differences between culturally tailored evidence‐based treatments for substance use disorder and treatment as usual in this randomized controlled trial with American Indian and Alaska Native participants. Nonetheless, participants improved over time on several substance‐related outcomes.
Alcohol Craving and Psychiatric Disorders Among Current Drinkers
Authors: Yoon Gihyun , Thompson Katie , Hakes Jahn K. , Westermeyer Joseph , Petrakis Ismene L. , Kim Suck Won
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives

Previous research has shown that alcohol craving is associated with psychiatric comorbidities. However, no population studies have examined the odds of psychiatric disorders in cravers and noncravers. The purpose of this study was to investigate current prevalence rates and odds ratios of psychiatric disorders among alcohol drinkers with and without alcohol craving in a population‐based sample. We also compared four craving groups (cravers with and without alcohol use disorder [AUD], noncravers with and without AUD) for psychiatric comorbidities.

Methods

The study data were drawn from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC). A subset of the NESARC sample (N = 22 000) who reported alcohol use during the past 12 months was included. Prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders were compared among current drinkers with alcohol craving (N = 900) and without alcohol craving (N = 21 500).

Results

Cravers had higher prevalence rates of current psychiatric disorders than noncravers. Even after adjustment for other psychiatric disorders including AUD, cravers had significantly higher odds of any substance use disorder (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 9.01), any mood disorder (AOR, 1.78), any anxiety disorder (AOR, 1.86), and any personality disorder (AOR, 1.92) than noncravers. Interestingly, cravers without AUD had even higher rates of any anxiety disorder and any personality disorder than noncravers with AUD.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Alcohol craving is associated with a higher prevalence of various psychiatric disorders. These findings suggest that alcohol craving may be related to transdiagnostic features that are present across various psychiatric disorders. (Am J Addict 2021;30:34–42)
The impact of the global COVID‐19 pandemic on the conduct of clinical trials: Return to normalcy by considering the practical impact of a structured ethical analysis
Authors: Vissers Maurits F.J.M. , Cohen Adam F. , Van Gerven Joop M.A. , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: July 2020

During the outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic many clinical trials were abruptly halted. Measures to contain the pandemic are currently taking effect and societies in general and healthcare systems in particular are considering how to return to normalcy. This opens up the discussion when and how clinical trials should be restarted while the COVID‐19 pandemic has not yet resolved, and what should happen in case of a resurgence of the virus in the coming months. This article uses the four ethical principles framework as a structured approach to come to a set of practical, ethically grounded guidelines for halting and relaunching clinical trials during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The framework applied provides a structured approach for all clinical trials stakeholders and thereby prevents unclear reasoning in a complex situation. While it is essential to prevent the virus from resurging and focus on developing a COVID‐19 treatment as soon as possible, it is just as important to our society that we continue developing new drugs for other conditions. In this article we argue that the situation for clinical trials is not essentially different from the pre‐COVID‐19 era and that an overcautious approach will have negative consequences.
Caledonian foreland basin sedimentation: A new depositional model for the Upper Silurian‐Lower Devonian Lower Old Red Sandstone of the Midland Valley Basin, Scotland
Authors: McKellar Zoe , Hartley Adrian J.
Published: July 2020

Reconstruction of the geological history of orogenic events can be challenging where basins have limited and/or fragmentary preservation. Here, we apply understanding gained from modern analogues to the sedimentological analysis of the succession of Upper Silurian to Lower Devonian Lower Old Red Sandstone (LORS), northern Midland Valley, Scotland, in order to reconstruct the foreland to the Caledonian orogeny. A new depositional model is presented which differs significantly from current understanding. Using facies analysis, grain size distribution and palaeocurrent data a large distributive fluvial system is reconstructed. Three lithofacies and nine sublithofacies are identified, forming fluvial channel and floodplain facies associations. The system was derived from an emerging mountain range in the Caledonian foreland undergoing constant tectonic rejuvenation to produce 9 km of coarse‐grained sediment, exhibiting an overall decrease in thickness towards the west and a large‐scale downstream reduction in grain size. Conglomerate sublithofacies dominate proximal areas in the east where amalgamated fluvial channel facies association is abundant, with a downstream increase in the dominance of floodplain facies. Additionally, observed grain size cyclicity is attributed to a pulsatory tectonic influence. The LORS records the time‐period between the late phases of the Caledonian Orogeny and the onset of post‐orogenic collapse in the mid‐Devonian and the presented model allows improved understanding of the north‐Atlantic Caledonian foreland.
Japanese Society of Medical Oncology Clinical Guidelines: Molecular Testing for Colorectal Cancer Treatment, 4th edition
Authors: Ebi Hiromichi , Bando Hideaki , Taniguchi Hiroya , Sunakawa Yu , Okugawa Yoshinaga , Hatanaka Yutaka , Hosoda Waki , Kumamoto Kensuke , Nakatani Kaname , Yamazaki Kentaro
Published: July 2020

Molecular testing to select the appropriate targeted and standard of care therapies is essential for managing patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). The Japanese Society of Medical Oncology previously published clinical guidelines for molecular testing in CRC. In the third edition published in 2018, RAS and BRAF V600E mutations should be tested prior to first‐line chemotherapy to assess the benefit of anti–epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody therapy in patients with unresectable CRC. Microsatellite instability (MSI) testing was recommended in patients with curatively resected stage II CRC because deficient mismatch repair is associated with low risk of recurrence. MSI testing was also recommended in patients with CRC suspected to be Lynch syndrome. The main aim of this fourth edition is to reflect recent advances in comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) tests and liquid biopsy. Here, CGP tests performed on tumor tissues are strongly recommended to assess the benefit of molecular targeted drugs in patients with CRC. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)‐based CGP tests are also proposed. ctDNA testing is recommended to determine the optimal treatment based on the risk of recurrence for curatively resected CRC and evaluate the suitability and monitor the therapeutic effects of anti–EGFR antibodies in patients with unresectable CRC. While both MSI testing and immunohistochemistry are strongly recommended to determine the indication of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with unresectable CRC, next‐generation sequencing‐based tests are weakly recommended because these tests have not been validated in clinical trials.
Combined in vitro and in silico analyses of FGFR1 variants: genotype‐phenotype study in idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Authors: Wang Daoqi , Niu Yonghua , Tan Jiahong , Chen Yinwei , Xu Hao , Ling Qing , Gong Jianan , Ling Le , Wang Jiaxin , Wang Tao , Liu Jihong
Published: July 2020

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) is an idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH)‐associated gene, mutated in approximately 10% of the patients with this condition. Through targeted gene sequencing of 153 males with IHH and 100 healthy controls, we identified 10 mutations in FGFR1 from IHH patients with a frequency of 5.9% in the Chinese population of central China. These included nine missense mutations(NM_023110.2, p.Gly687Arg, p.Ala608Asp, p.Gly348Glu, p.Asn296Ser, p.Gly226Asp, p.Arg209Cys, p.Gly97Arg, p.Val71Met, p.Gly70Arg) and a splicing mutation c.1430 + 1G > T. in vitro and in silico analyses of FGFR1 variants were conducted to study the impact of the identified mutations. Our findings indicated that the splicing mutation dramatically affected premRNA processing, causing exon 10 and 6 nucleotides in the 3′ end of exon 9 to be completely skipped. Two variants (p.Gly687Arg and p.Ala608Asp) markedly impaired tyrosine kinase activity, while the other variants had limited impact on the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. However, the functional impairment of the mutant receptors was not always consistent with the phenotypes, indicating that FGFR1 mutations might cause IHH in conjunction with other mutant genes. In this study, we expanded the knowledge on the mutation spectrum of FGFR1 in IHH patients and explored the genotype‐phenotype relationship.
Real time three‐dimensional echocardiographic quantification of left atrial volume in orthotopic heart transplant recipients: Comparisons with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Zhu Shuangshuang , Sun Wei , Qiao Weihua , Li Meng , Li Yuman , Liang Bo , Wang Jing , Dong Nianguo , Zhang Li , Xie Mingxing
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The accuracy of real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT‐3DE) in evaluating left atrial volume (LAV) of heart transplant recipients against cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has not been reported. The aim of this study was to compare LAV with RT‐3DE with respect to CMR in heart transplant recipients.

Methods

Thirty‐one heart transplant recipients who received echocardiogram and CMR examination on the same day were prospectively enrolled. The maximal LAV, minimal LAV by RT‐3DE, and two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE) were compared with CMR measurements. Inter‐technique comparisons included Pearson's correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman analysis. Reproducibility of 2DE and RT‐3DE technique was assessed by intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

RT‐3DE‐derived LAV values showed higher correlation with CMR than 2DE measurements in heart transplant recipients (r = .93 vs r = .76 for maximal LAV; r = .91 vs r = .81 for minimal LAV). Two‐dimensional echocardiography underestimated maximal LAV by 10 ± 31 mL and minimal LAV by 26 ± 26 mL. Although RT‐3DE underestimated minimal LAV 15 ± 19 mL, no significant difference between RT‐3DE and CMR was observed in maximal LAV (RT‐3DE: 86 ± 22 mL; CMR: 89 ± 23 mL, P = .079), with a negligible bias of 3 mL. Inter‐observer and intra‐observer agreement were excellent for 2DE and RT‐3DE parameters.

Conclusion

Compared with CMR reference, RT‐3DE‐derived LAV measurements are more accurate than 2DE‐based analysis in heart transplant recipients, especially with regard to the assessment of maximal LAV. RT‐3DE may be a valid alternative to CMR for quantification LAV in heart transplant recipients.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 may be an underappreciated pathogen of the central nervous system
Authors: Alam S. B. , Willows S. , Kulka M. , Sandhu J. K.
Published: July 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) causes a highly contagious respiratory disease referred to as COVID‐19. However, emerging evidence indicates that a small but growing number of COVID‐19 patients also manifest neurological symptoms, suggesting that SARS‐CoV‐2 may infect the nervous system under some circumstances. SARS‐CoV‐2 primarily enters the body through the epithelial lining of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, but under certain conditions this pleiotropic virus may also infect peripheral nerves and gain entry into the central nervous system (CNS). The brain is shielded by various anatomical and physiological barriers, most notably the blood–brain barrier (BBB) which functions to prevent harmful substances, including pathogens and pro‐inflammatory mediators, from entering the brain. The BBB is composed of highly specialized endothelial cells, pericytes, mast cells and astrocytes that form the neurovascular unit, which regulates BBB permeability and maintains the integrity of the CNS. In this review, potential routes of viral entry and the possible mechanisms utilized by SARS‐CoV‐2 to penetrate the CNS, either by disrupting the BBB or infecting the peripheral nerves and using the neuronal network to initiate neuroinflammation, are briefly discussed. Furthermore, the long‐term effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on the brain and in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases known to be associated with other human coronaviruses are considered. Although the mechanisms of SARS‐CoV‐2 entry into the CNS and neurovirulence are currently unknown, the potential pathways described here might pave the way for future research in this area and enable the development of better therapeutic strategies.
Spectrum of Headaches Associated With SARS‐CoV‐2 Infection: Study of Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Porta‐Etessam Jesús , Matías‐Guiu Jordi A. , González‐García Nuria , Gómez Iglesias Patricia , Santos‐Bueso Enrique , Arriola‐Villalobos Pedro , García‐Azorín David , Matías‐Guiu Jorge
Published: July 2020

Background

Series of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection report headache in 6%‐15% of cases, although some data suggest that the actual frequency is higher, and that headache is not associated with fever. No study published to date has analyzed the characteristics of headache in these patients.

Objective

To analyze the characteristics of COVID‐19 related headaches.

Methods

We conducted a survey of Spaniard healthcare professionals who have been infected by SARS‐CoV‐2 and presented headache during the course of the disease. The survey addressed respondents’ medical history and headache characteristics, and we analyzed the association between both.

Results

We analyzed the responses of a sample of 112 healthcare professionals. History of migraine was reported by 20/112 (17.9%) of respondents, history of tension‐type headache by 8/112 (7.1%), and history of cluster headache was reported by a single respondent; 82/112(73.2%) of respondents had no history of headache. Headache presented independently of fever, around the third day after symptom onset. The previous history of migraine was associated with a higher frequency of pulsating headache (20% in patients with previous migraine vs 4.3% in those with no history of migraine, P = .013).

Conclusion

Headache is often holocranial, hemicranial, or occipital, pressing, and worsens with physical activity or head movements. Because the characteristics of the headache and the associated symptoms are heterogeneous in our survey, we suggest that several patterns with specific pathophysiological mechanisms may underlie the headache associated with COVID‐19.
Design of an inhibitor of Helicobacter pylori cholesteryl‐α‐glucoside transferase critical for bacterial colonization
Authors: Pal Soumiya , Sarker Nishat , Qaria Majjid , Tandon Kshitij , Akhter Yusuf , Ahmed Niyaz
Published: July 2020

Background

Fifty percent of the world's population surves as a host for Helicobacter pylori, gastric cancer causing bacteria, that colonizes the gastric region of digestive tract. It has a remarkable capacity to infect the host stomach for the entire lifetime despite an activated host immune response.

Methods

In this study, we have performed the virtual screening analysis of protein‐inhibitor binding between the glycosyl transferase enzymes of Helicobacter pylori (CapJ or HP0421) and a corresponding library of inhibitors in the known substrate‐binding pockets. We have docked our library of ligands consisting of cholesterol backbone with CapJ protein and identified several ligands’ interacting amino acid residues present in active site pocket(s) of the protein.

Results

In most of the cases, the ligands showed an interaction with the residues of the same pocket of the enzyme. Top three (03) hits were filtered out from the whole data set, which might act as potent inhibitors of the enzyme‐substrate reaction.

Conclusions

This study describes a new possibility by which colonization of H. pylori can be limited. The reported evidence suggests that comprehensive knowledge and wet laboratory validation of these inhibitors are needed in order to develop them as lead molecules.
Is it enough to be willing to win or do you have to be smart? The relationship between competitive worldviews, cognitive abilities, and applicant faking in personality tests
Authors: Schilling Michael , Sparfeldt Jörn R. , Becker Nicolas , Engel Marie , Levacher Julie , Sebastian Tilman F. P. , Schäfer Juliane , Schwabe Sarah , König Cornelius J.
Published: July 2020

Recent research has highlighted competitive worldviews as a key predictor of faking—the intentional distortion of answers by candidates in the selection context. According to theoretical assumptions, applicants’ abilities, and especially their cognitive abilities, should influence whether faking motivation, triggered by competitive worldviews, can be turned into successful faking behavior. Therefore, we examined the influence of competitive worldviews on faking in personality tests and investigated a possible moderation of this relationship by cognitive abilities in three independent high school and university student samples (N1 = 133, N2 = 137, N3 = 268). Our data showed neither an influence of the two variables nor of their interaction on faking behavior. We discuss possible reasons for these findings and give suggestions for further research.
Motivational Drivers of Extensive Work Effort: Are Long Hours Always Detrimental to Well‐being?
Authors: Avgoustaki Argyro , Cañibano Almudena
Published: July 2020

Is extensive work effort always detrimental to professionals’ well‐being? We argue that the link between extensive work effort and well‐being depends on the reasons why professionals work extended hours. Drawing on self‐determination theory and data from an international consultancy firm, we show that extrinsically driven work effort is negatively related to well‐being, while intrinsically driven work effort is positively related to well‐being. A reinforcing effect seems to exist between the two types of motivators, revealing that intrinsically driven work effort has both a direct and an indirect link to well‐being, mitigating the downsides of extrinsically driven work effort.
Genotypic yield responses of lowland rice in high‐altitude cropping systems
Authors: Razafindrazaka Ando , Stuerz Sabine , Cotter Marc , Rajaona Arisoa , Asch Folkard
Published: July 2020

Rising global mean temperatures open opportunities in high‐altitude production systems for temperature‐sensitive crops such as lowland rice. Currently, the cropping window for rice in higher altitudes is still narrow, and thus, genotypes that tolerate a certain degree of chilling are needed to achieve their potential yield. Final yield depends on the interaction between genotype and environmental conditions. Exposing the genotype to a wide range of environments is a way to evaluate its adaptability into an expanding cropping calendar. Over a 2‐year period, an experiment was conducted in lowland rice systems in Madagascar at two locations differing in altitude. Twenty genotypes with contrasting levels of tolerance to low temperature were sown monthly in a non‐replicated rice garden trial. Plant development was monitored and yield and yield components were determined. Yield stability across the different growing environments was investigated. While crop duration was affected by sowing dates and altitude, yield was mainly determined by sowing date. Panicle number per m2 and number of spikelets per panicle were the most limiting factors for yield potential in mid‐altitude, while in high altitude, yield was mainly limited by spikelet fertility. Resulting cropping calendar and genotype recommendations are discussed.
Season‐specific varietal management as an option to increase rainfed lowland rice production in East African high altitude cropping systems
Authors: Abera Bayuh Belay , Stuerz Sabine , Senthilkumar Kalimuthu , Cotter Marc , Rajaona Arisoa , Asch Folkard
Published: July 2020

Due to land expansion and an increase in productivity, rice production in sub‐Saharan Africa has been growing at a rate of 6% in the past decade. Rainfed rice production systems have accounted for a large share of this expansion. In these systems, the potential growing period not only depends on the length of the rainy season and thus water availability, but is often, especially in the highlands of East Africa, bordered by the onset of the cool period of the year, when low minimum temperatures compromise rice yields. The objective of this study was to investigate the yield potential of 30 rice varieties contrasting in crop duration and cold tolerance in the highlands of East Africa, with its limited length of growing period. A field trial was conducted in the cropping seasons in 2016 and 2017 at the Fogera rice research station, Ethiopia. As a function of the onset of rains, rice was sown mid‐July in 2016 and early July in 2017. Early sowing in 2017 led to an extended crop duration and significantly lower yields of the short‐duration varieties, and to a shortened duration and significantly higher yields of the medium‐ and long‐duration varieties, when compared to late sowing in 2016. Late sowing compromised yield of the medium‐ and long‐duration varieties because of low temperatures during booting stage, which led to high spikelet sterility. Early sowing resulted in low yields of the short‐duration varieties, probably due to low solar radiation during the cloudy rainy season, which coincided with the vegetative stage. Therefore, choice of variety should be a function of the variable onset of the rainy season and related sowing date. However, crop models precisely calibrated for potential varieties and the respective environmental conditions could fully support the selection of a suitable variety, depending on the date of sowing, for example with the help of online tools or smartphone applications.
Clinical outcome of pulmonary vein isolation alone ablation strategy using VISITAG SURPOINT in nonparoxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yamaguchi Junji , Takahashi Yoshihide , Yamamoto Tasuku , Amemiya Miki , Sekigawa Masahiro , Shirai Yasuhiro , Tao Susumu , Hayashi Tatsuya , Yagishita Atsuhiko , Takigawa Masateru , Goya Masahiko , Sasano Tetsuo
Published: July 2020

Background

Recent studies have shown the improvement in long‐term effectiveness with standardized pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) aimed at creating durable and contiguous lesions with VISITAG SURPOINT (VS) in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF).

Objective

We aimed to assess efficacy of PVI alone strategy using VS in non‐PAF patients and evaluate factors associated with corresponding clinical outcomes.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent PVI for persistent/long‐standing persistent AF between May 2017 to July 2019 were studied retrospectively. PVI was performed with 30–50 W guided by VS (posterior target: 400–500, anterior target: 500). Left atrial voltage maps were created during atrial pacing after PVI.

Results

A total of 140 patients (119 males, age 62 ± 10 years, long‐standing persistent AF: 35) were included and followed for median of 454 days. No adverse events were reported in any patients during periprocedural and follow‐up period of up to 28 months. Kaplan–Meier analysis estimated that freedom from atrial tachycardia or AF (AT/AF) without antiarrhythmics at 1‐year was 70%. Radiofrequency delivery with higher power was associated with increased first‐pass isolation rate, but not with freedom from AT/AF. In multivariate analysis, long‐standing persistent AF and % low‐voltage zone (%LVZ) were independent predictors of clinical outcome. The best cut‐off value of %LVZ for predicting AT/AF recurrence was 3.24%. Freedom from AT/AF was 88% in patients with persistent AF and %LVZ < 3.24%, while 27% in those with long‐standing persistent AF and %LVZ ≥ 3.24%.

Conclusions

PVI alone using VS was associated with excellent 1‐year success in patients with persistent AF and %LVZ < 3.24%, but was insufficient in those with long‐standing persistent AF and/or %LVZ ≥ 3.24%.
Sequential His bundle and left ventricular pacing for cardiac resynchronization
Authors: Deshmukh Amrish , Sattur Sudhakar , Bechtol Tim , Heckman Luuk I. B. , Prinzen Frits W. , Deshmukh Pramod
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Fusion of left ventricular pacing with intrinsic conduction provides superior resynchronization compared to biventricular pacing. His bundle pacing (HBP) preserves intrinsic conduction and allows for constant fusion with left ventricular pacing. This study evaluated sequential His bundle and left ventricular pacing for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).

Methods

In patients referred for CRT, sequential His bundle and left ventricular pacing was performed when HBP did not correct the QRS. At implant, QRS duration and area were compared between biventricular pacing and His bundle and left ventricular pacing. Devices were programmed for His and left ventricular pacing. Functional status and echocardiography were evaluated in follow up.

Results

Twenty‐one patients, seven female, 70.7 ± 9.9 years, 57% with nonischemic cardiomyopathy were included. Baseline QRS duration was 170 ± 21 ms and was 157 ± 16 ms with HBP. Biventricular pacing resulted in a QRS duration of 141 ± 15 ms and decreased to 110 ± 14 ms with His bundle and left ventricular pacing (p < .0005). His bundle and left ventricular pacing resulted in a smaller paced QRS area (38.5 ± 22.6 µVs) compared to biventricular pacing (67.5 ± 24.0 µVs) and baseline (78.1 ± 28.1 µVs; p < .0005). Left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 27.6 ± 6.4% to 41.1 ± 12.5 (at 25 mean months, p = .001) and functional class improved from 3.1 ± 0.5 to 2.1 ± 0.8 (at mean 32 months, p < .001).

Conclusions

Sequential His bundle and left ventricular pacing results in superior electrical synchrony in patients with indication for CRT when HBP does not correct the QRS and resulted in promising clinical and echocardiographic response rates.
Exogenous neuritin treatment improves survivability and functions of Schwann cells with improved outgrowth of neurons in rat diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Xi Chunhong , Zhang Yingduan , Yan Mei , Lv Qing , Lu Huan , Zhou Jun , Wang Yucheng , Li Jianbo
Published: July 2020

Pathogenesis and treatment for diabetic neuropathy are still complex. A deficit of neurotrophic factors affecting Schwann cells is a very important cause of diabetic neuropathy. Neuritin is a newly discovered potential neurotrophic factor. In this study, we explored the effect of exogenous neuritin on survivability and functions of diabetic Schwann cells of rats with experimental diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy was induced in rats. 12‐week diabetic rats contrasted with non‐diabetic normal rats had decreased levels of serum neuritin and slowed nerve conduction velocities (NCVs). Schwann cells isolated from these diabetic rats and cultured in high glucose showed reduced cell neuritin mRNA and protein and supernatant neuritin protein, increased apoptosis rates, increased caspase‐3 activities and progressively reduced viability. In contrast, exogenous neuritin treatment reduced apoptosis and improved viability, with elevated Bcl‐2 levels (not Bax) and decreased caspase‐3 activities. Co‐cultured with diabetic Schwann cells pre‐treated with exogenous neuritin in high glucose media, and diabetic DRG neurons showed lessened decreased neurite outgrowth and supernatant NGF concentration occurring in co‐culture of diabetic cells. Exogenous neuritin treatment ameliorated survivability and functions of diabetic Schwann cells of rats with diabetic neuropathy. Our study may provide a new mechanism and potential treatment for diabetic neuropathy.
The use of mechanistic reasoning in assessing coronavirus interventions
Authors: Aronson Jeffrey K. , Auker‐Howlett Daniel , Ghiara Virginia , Kelly Michael P. , Williamson Jon
Published: July 2020

Rationale

Evidence‐based medicine (EBM), the dominant approach to assessing the effectiveness of clinical and public health interventions, focuses on the results of association studies. EBM+ is a development of EBM that systematically considers mechanistic studies alongside association studies.

Aims and objectives

To explore examples of the importance of mechanistic evidence to coronavirus research.

Methods

We have reviewed the mechanistic evidence in four major areas that are relevant to the management of COVID‐19.

Results and conclusions

(a) Assessment of combination therapy for MERS highlights the need for systematic assessment of mechanistic evidence. (b) That hypertension is a risk factor for severe disease in the case of SARS‐CoV‐2 suggests that altering hypertension treatment might alleviate disease, but the mechanisms are complex, and it is essential to consider and evaluate multiple mechanistic hypotheses. (c) Confidence that public health interventions will be effective requires a detailed assessment of social and psychological components of the mechanisms of their action, in addition to mechanisms of disease. (d) In particular, if vaccination programmes are to be effective, they must be carefully tailored to the social context; again, mechanistic evidence is crucial. We conclude that coronavirus research is best situated within the EBM+ evaluation framework.
Development of a rapid FLISA detection of Salmonella spp. based on CdTe/ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Qi Xiaobao , Xu Huanhuan , Liu Wukang , Guo Ailing
Published: July 2020

Salmonella pathogen is old and difficult to control in food safety. The study was aimed to develop a sensitive and rapid CdTe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) mediated fluorescence‐linked immunosorbent assay (FLISA) of Salmonella spp. The optical properties and structure of the CdTe/ZnS QDs were characterized by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The emission peak wavelength is 575 nm. The CdTe/ZnS QDs‐labeled secondary antibody (goat anti‐rabbit IgG) was formed by biotin‐avidin system. The detection limits of S. Enteritidis and artificial simulated samples are 1.0 × 103 CFU/ml and 1.78 × 103 CFU/ml, respectively. The study of FLISA stability shows that the antibody with QDs had very good activity when it was stored in the dark at 4°C for at least 35 days. The FLISA provides a new and easy‐operated method for the rapid detection of Salmonella spp. and has broad application in food safety.
The impact of inflammatory bowel disease on sexual health in men: A scoping review
Authors: Ma Sara , Veysey Martin , Ersser Steven , Mason‐Jones Amanda , Galdas Paul
Published: July 2020

Aims and objectives

To review the literature on the impact of inflammatory bowel disease on the sexual health of men and make recommendations for nursing practice and research.

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic condition of the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms that may impact upon sexual health. Specialist nurses are well positioned to assess and manage sexual health, but there is a lack of clinical guidance, especially in relation to men.

Design

A systematic scoping review following the Arksey and O’Malley (International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8, 2005, 19) framework reported in line with the PRISMA‐ScR checklist (Tricco et al., Annals of Internal Medicine, 169, 2018, 467).

Methods

OVID MEDLINE ALL [R], OVID EMBASE [R], OVID PsychINFO, EBSCO CINAHL Complete, The Cochrane Library and ProQuest were searched. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied independently by two reviewers. Data were extracted, charted and summarised from eligible studies.

Results

Thirty‐one studies met the inclusion criteria. These were synthesised under three categories: mediators, moderators and descriptors of sexual health. Depression, disease activity and surgery were the most commonly cited disease‐related factors to affect sexual health in men. The most commonly used assessment tool was The International Index of Erectile Function. Descriptors of function included frequency of intercourse, libido and the ability to maintain a desired sexual role.

Conclusions

The effect of inflammatory bowel disease on sexual health in men involves a complex interaction of physical and psychosocial factors. Researchers must explore areas outside of erectile function to understand how the disease impacts sexuality, sexual well‐being and masculinity. This can be achieved through qualitative exploration of patient, partner and health professional experiences.

Relevance to clinical practice

A holistic nursing assessment of men with inflammatory bowel disease should include sexual health. Developing understanding of how the disease influences sexual interaction and expression will facilitate support that is relevant, accessible and of value to men living with the disease.
Finding Potential Speed Bumps and Pitfalls in Buyer–Seller Negotiations in Twenty Cultures
Authors: Graham John L. , Mahdavi Mehdi , Fatehi‐Rad Navid
Published: July 2020

Our study examines the effects of culture on negotiation behaviors and outcomes. We also explore how culture moderates the relationships between those behaviors and outcomes, a subject that has been neglected by most researchers. Our work integrates theories and methods from many areas of the behavioral sciences: marketing science, decision analysis, behavioral economics, game theory, social psychology, anthropology, sociolinguistics, linguistics, content analysis, and structural equations modeling. The data were created in a laboratory setting in which 1,197 businesspeople from 20 cultural groups participated in a three‐product buyer–seller negotiation simulation. In this article we first describe how our database was developed. Second, we look at how observed behaviors are associated with questionnaire‐derived negotiation processes and outcomes. Third, we develop a new tool for understanding cultural differences and use it to investigate how culture influences negotiation behaviors, processes, and outcomes across the 20 cultural groups included in our database.
Lower parental socioeconomic status in childhood and adolescence predicts unhealthy health behaviour patterns in adolescence in Northern Finland
Authors: Marttila‐Tornio Kaisa , Männikkö Niko , Ruotsalainen Heidi , Miettunen Jouko , Kääriäinen Maria
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To determine the association between parental socioeconomic status in childhood and adolescence and unhealthy health behaviour patterns among adolescents in Northern Finland.

Methods

The sample, drawn from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 Study, consisted of 15‐ to 16‐year‐old adolescents (n = 4305). Data on socioeconomic status and health behaviours were based on questionnaires collected from cohort members and their parents during the former’s childhood and adolescence. Logistic regression served to assess the association.

Results

Controlling for all other factors in the model, several socioeconomic factors were found to be significant predictors of unhealthy health behaviour patterns. In childhood, father’s low and medium education for boys, and mother’s low or medium education as well as fathers’ unemployment for girls predicted greater likelihood of engaging in unhealthy behaviour patterns. For both genders, having a stay‐at‐home mother in childhood (and for boys also in adolescence) protected from unhealthy health behaviour patterns. For boys, mother’s and for girls, fathers’ low occupational education in adolescence increased the risk of developing unhealthy patterns.

Conclusions

In the development of effective health prevention strategies, it is important to identify children and adolescents who are at risk of developing lifestyle diseases.
Sink or Swim? A survival analysis of sport dropout in Australian youth swimmers
Authors: Moulds Kylie , Abbott Shaun , Pion Johan , Brophy‐Williams Cecilia , Heathcote Mark , Cobley Stephen
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To examine long‐term participation and dropout rates in Australian youth swimming using survival analyses and to determine whether multiple individual, socio‐demographic, and competition‐related factors influenced dropout.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of registration and competitive performance data.

Methods

Part 1—Registration data from N = 17 161 female (n = 9400) and male (n = 7761) New South Wales (NSW) swimmers aged 10‐15 years (inclusive).Part 2—Competition level involvement in a subsample of female (n = 1011) and male (n = 811) swimmers, aged 12‐15 years, was also examined. To determine dropout rates and influential factors, Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses supplemented by Cox regression were used.

Results

(1) Kaplan‐Meier analyses identified median sustained participation rates of four years (95% CI = 3.93‐4.06), with 15.9% maintaining participation over 10 years. Cox regressions identified age‐group was associated with dropout (P < .001), with a 184.9% higher Hazard Rate (HR) for 10‐ vs 15‐year‐olds. Residential proximity to major cities was associated with dropout (P < .001), with urban swimmers reporting a 24.8% higher HR rate than rural swimmers. Sex and relative age were not associated with dropout. (2) The subsample median sustained participation was five years (95% CI = 4.79‐5.20), with 25.3% maintaining participation for ten years. Level of competition was associated (P < .001), with an 86% higher HR when considering lower competition levels (ie, club/district v national).

Conclusion

In a large representative sample of swimmers, survival analyses identified age‐group, competition level, and city proximity were associated with increased swimming dropout rates.
COVID‐19, liver transplant, and immunosuppression: Allies or foes?
Authors: Parente Alessandro , Manzia Tommaso Maria , Angelico Roberta , Tirotta Fabio , Muiesan Paolo , Tisone Giuseppe , Framarino dei Malatesta Marialuisa
Published: July 2020

Liver transplant (LT) recipients are considered at a particularly high risk for developing critical COVID‐19 infection. To date, available data are heterogeneous and scarce and mortality in LT recipients seems to be higher compared to normal population, but whether this is caused by altered immunological status, immunosuppression (IS), or underlying comorbidities has not yet been fully clarified. Some evidences show that IS might play a role in the pathophysiology of this new disease. We searched all available data regarding LT recipients infected by COVID‐19, focusing on the role of IS. To date, 244 LT recipients have been reported as COVID‐19‐positive. Trends among transplant physicians are to reduce overall IS, especially antimetabolite drugs, but the current available observations are still not enough to build strong evidences for recommendation and IS should be meticulously tailored case by case.
The ARRIVE guidelines 2.0: Updated guidelines for reporting animal research
Authors: Percie du Sert Nathalie , Hurst Viki , Ahluwalia Amrita , Alam Sabina , Avey Marc T. , Baker Monya , Browne William J. , Clark Alejandra , Cuthill Innes C. , Dirnagl Ulrich , Emerson Michael , Garner Paul , Holgate Stephen T. , Howells David W. , Karp Natasha A. , Lazic Stanley E. , Lidster Katie , MacCallum Catriona J. , Macleod Malcolm , Pearl Esther J. , Petersen Ole H. , Rawle Frances , Reynolds Penny , Rooney Kieron , Sena Emily S. , Silberberg Shai D. , Steckler Thomas , Würbel Hanno
Published: July 2020

Reproducible science requires transparent reporting. The ARRIVE guidelines (Animal Research: Reporting of In Vivo Experiments) were originally developed in 2010 to improve the reporting of animal research. They consist of a checklist of information to include in publications describing in vivo experiments to enable others to scrutinise the work adequately, evaluate its methodological rigour, and reproduce the methods and results. Despite considerable levels of endorsement by funders and journals over the years, adherence to the guidelines has been inconsistent, and the anticipated improvements in the quality of reporting in animal research publications have not been achieved. Here, we introduce ARRIVE 2.0. The guidelines have been updated and information reorganised to facilitate their use in practice. We used a Delphi exercise to prioritise and divide the items of the guidelines into 2 sets, the “ARRIVE Essential 10,” which constitutes the minimum requirement, and the “Recommended Set,” which describes the research context. This division facilitates improved reporting of animal research by supporting a stepwise approach to implementation. This helps journal editors and reviewers verify that the most important items are being reported in manuscripts. We have also developed the accompanying Explanation and Elaboration document, which serves (1) to explain the rationale behind each item in the guidelines, (2) to clarify key concepts, and (3) to provide illustrative examples. We aim, through these changes, to help ensure that researchers, reviewers, and journal editors are better equipped to improve the rigour and transparency of the scientific process and thus reproducibility.