bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Resolution CHEST CT(HRCT) Evaluation in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Patel Maulin , Chowdhury Junad , Zheng Matthew , Abramian Osheen , Verga Steven , Zhao Huaqing , Patlakh Nicole , Montecalvo Nicholas , Fleece David , Cohen Gary , Kumaran Maruti , Dass Chandra , Criner Gerard J. ,   for the Temple University COVID-19 Research Group
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Currently the main diagnostic modality for COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease-2019) is reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) via nasopharyngeal swab which has high false negative rates. We evaluated the performance of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) imaging in the diagnosis of suspected COVID-19 infection compared to RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab alone in patients hospitalized for suspected COVID-19 infection.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 324 consecutive patients admitted to Temple University Hospital. All hospitalized patients who had RT-PCR testing and HRCT were included in the study. HRCTs were classified as Category 1, 2 or 3. Patients were then divided into four groups based on HRCT category and RT-PCR swab results for analysis.

Results

The average age of patients was 59.4 (±15.2) years and 123 (38.9%) were female. Predominant ethnicity was African American 148 (46.11%). 161 patients tested positive by RT-PCR, while 41 tested positive by HRCT. 167 (52.02%) had category 1 scan, 63 (19.63%) had category 2 scan and 91 (28.35%) had category 3 HRCT scans. There was substantial agreement between our radiologists for HRCT classification (κ = 0.64). Sensitivity and specificity of HRCT classification system was 77.6 and 73.7 respectively. Ferritin, LDH, AST and ALT were higher in Group 1 and D-dimers levels was higher in Group 3; differences however were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Due to its high infectivity and asymptomatic transmission, until a highly sensitive and specific COVID-19 test is developed, HRCT should be incorporated into the assessment of patients who are hospitalized with suspected COVID-19.

Key Points

Key Question

Can High Resolution CT chest (HRCT) improve diagnostic accuracy of current Nasopharyngeal swab in suspected COVID-19 patients?

Bottom Line

In this retrospective analysis, our novel HRCT classification identified 20% of all COVID-19 patients who had negative nasopharyngeal reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests but had HRCT findings consistent with COVID-19 pneumonia. These patients were ruled out for other infections and laboratory markers were similar to other RT-PCR positive patients

Why Read on

Our new HRCT classification when combined with RT-PCR can improve diagnostic accuracy while promptly improving triaging in COVID-19 patients.
Gut microbiota predict Enterococcus expansion but not Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus acquisition
Authors: Chanderraj Rishi , Brown Christopher A. , Hinkle Kevin , Falkowski Nicole , Ranjan Piyush , Dickson Robert P. , Woods Robert J.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) is a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections, and continues to spread despite widespread implementation of pathogen-targeted control guidelines. Commensal gut microbiota provide colonization resistance to VRE, but the role of gut microbiota in VRE acquisition in at-risk patients is unknown.

METHODS

We performed a case-control study of gut microbiota in hospitalized patients who did (cases) and did not (controls) acquire VRE. We matched case subjects to control subjects by known risk factors and “time at risk,” defined as the time elapsed between admission until positive VRE screen. We characterized gut bacterial communities using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of rectal swab specimens.

RESULTS

We analyzed 236 samples from 59 matched case-control pairs. At baseline, case and control subjects did not differ in gut microbiota when measured by community diversity (p=0.33) or composition (p=0.30). After hospitalization, gut communities of cases and controls differed only in the abundance of the Enterococcus containing operational taxonomic unit (OTU), with the gut microbiota of case subjects having more of this OTU than time-matched control subjects (p=0.01). Otherwise, case and control communities after the time at risk did not differ in diversity (p=.33) or community structure (p=0.12). Among patients who became VRE colonized, those having the Blautia containing OTU on admission had lower Enterococcus relative abundance once colonized (p =0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

The 16S profile of the gut microbiome does not predict VRE acquisition in hospitalized patients, likely due to rapid and profound microbiota change. The gut microbiome does not predict VRE acquisition, but may be associated with Enterococcus expansion, suggesting that these should be considered as two distinct processes.

16S profile of the gut microbiome does not predict VRE acquisition in hospitalized patients, likely due to the rapid and profound microbiota change in this) opulation. VRE expansion and VRE acquisition may be two distinct processes.
Blood donor variability is a modulatory factor forP. falciparuminvasion phenotyping assays
Authors: Thiam Laty G. , Nyarko Prince B. , Kusi Kwadwo A. , Niang Makhtar , Aniweh Yaw , Awandare Gordon A.
Published: May 2020

Human erythrocytes are indispensable forPlasmodium falciparumdevelopment. Unlike other eukaryotic cells, there is no existing erythroid cell line capable of supporting long-termP. falciparum in vitroexperiments. Consequently, invasion phenotyping experiments rely on erythrocytes of different backgrounds. However, the contribution of the erythrocytes variation in influencing invasion rates remains unknown, which presents a challenge for conducting large-scale comparative studies. Here, we used erythrocytes of different blood groups harboring different hemoglobin genotypes to assess the relative contribution of blood donor variability inP. falciparuminvasion phenotyping assays. For each donor, we investigated the relationship between parasite invasion phenotypes and erythrocyte phenotypic characteristics, including; the expression levels of surface receptors (e.g. the human glycophorins A and C, the complement receptor 1 and decay accelerating factor), blood groups (e.g. ABO/Rh system), and hemoglobin genotypes (e.g. AA, AS and AC). Across all donors, there were significant differences in invasion efficiency following treatment with either neuraminidase, trypsin or chymotrypsin relative to the control erythrocytes. Primarily, we showed that the levels of key erythrocyte surface receptors and their sensitivity to enzyme treatment, significantly differed across donors. However, invasion efficiency correlated neither with susceptibility to enzyme treatment nor with the levels of the selected erythrocyte surface receptors. Upon further analysis, we found no relationship betweenP. falciparuminvasion phenotype and blood group or hemoglobin genotype.

Importance

Assays to decipherP. falciparuminvasion phenotypes are of great importance in the quest for an efficient malaria vaccine. Malaria associated mortality is mainly attributed to the blood stage of the parasite’s life cycle, a major focus of vaccine development strategies. Further, testing and validating blood stage vaccines necessitates conducting large-scale studies in endemic countries. However, comparing results from such studies is challenged by the lack of standard assays. As human erythrocytes play a pivotal role inP. falciparuminvasion assays, the need to investigate the effect of blood donor variability in the outcome of such assays is apparent. The significance of our study is in reporting the absence of relationship betweenP. falciparuminvasion efficiency and commonly shared erythrocyte features across different erythrocyte donors, therefore emphasizing the need to consider erythrocyte donor uniformity and to anticipate challenges associated to blood donor variability in early stages of large-scale study design.
Extracellular Vesicles Hijack the Autophagic Pathway to Induce Tau Accumulation in Endolysosomes
Authors: Pedrioli Giona , Barberis Marialuisa , Molinari Maurizio , Morone Diego , Papin Stéphanie , Paganetti Paolo
Published: May 2020

Clinical progression of tauopathies is reflected by the transcellular propagation of pathogenic Tau seeds with the possible involvement of extracellular vesicles as transport vectors. However, the mechanism regulating extracellular vesicle cargo delivery to recipient cells is poorly understood. We established a cell model for investigating extracellular vesicle-delivery of membranes and proteins. In this model, extracellular vesicles are readily internalized and accumulate in endolysosomes. For the first time, we show that in this acidic compartment of recipient cells, extracellular vesicle-delivered Tau seeds cause the accumulation and abnormal folding of normal Tau by a process that requires the participation of autophagy. Endolysomes represent thus a cross-road where Tau seeds released from extracellular vesicles propagate on cellular Tau on its route for autophagy-mediated degradation, ultimately driving its accumulation, endolysosomal stress and cytotoxicity. Whilst, autophagy stimulation is considered as a viable solution to protect neurons from harmful cytosolic protein inclusions, our data suggest that this approach may favour the aberrant accumulation of neurodegeneration-associated proteins induced by exogenous pathogenic protein forms, with possible implications in the spreading of the disease.
Glycyrrhizin inhibits LPS-induced inflammatory responses in goat ruminal epithelial cellsin vitro
Authors: Pu Xuanxuan , Mullahred Pattygouri , Liu Junfeng , Guo Xuefeng , Gao Jian , Zhang Xiuping , Jiang Chenyu , Zhang Sujiang
Published: May 2020

A long-term of high concentration feeding in ruminants can bring huge economic profits, but it also impose ruminants into great threat of suffering subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). SARA is a kind of disease which attenuate the health, feed intake and production of ruminants, and when ruminants suffer SARA, the concentration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) increase largely. Glycyrrhizin is reported to have anti-inflammation effects, and the study was conducted to investigate effects of glycyrrhizin on LPS-induced goat ruminal epithelial cells (GRECs) to provide evidence for using glycyrrhizin as a treatment for SARA. Effects of LPS, and glycyrrhizin on cell viability of GRECs were investigated, respectively. Then GRECs were stimulated with LPS (50 mg/L) for 2 h, and glycyrrhizin were added at the concentration of 0, 50, 75, 100 and 125 mg/L for 24 h to investigate the expression of inflammatory cytokines (by Elisa kits), the mRNA expression of NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines (by qRT-PCR), the distribution of Zo-1 and Occludin (by immunofluorescence staining), the expression of Occludin (by Western blot analysis), and the morphology of GRECs. The results showed that: (1) Glycyrrhizin at the concentration of 50, 75, 100, and 125 mg/L had no cytotoxic effects on GRECs, and LPS at the concentration of 50 mg/L significantly decreased the cell viability of GRECs. (2) Glycyrrhizin attenuated the expression and relative mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-12 by a dose-dependent manner, and significantly attenuated the relative mRNA expression of NF-κB. (3) Immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis showed that the quantity of Zo-1 and Occludin, and the expression of Occludin all increased with the treatment of glycyrrhizin. (4) Glycyrrhizin attenuated LPS-induced autophagy and protected the structural integrity of GRECs. In conclusion, glycyrrhizin significantly inhibited the inflammatory response in LPS-stimulated GRECs, and it may be used as a potential agent for the treatment of SARA.
Neuronal circuitry underlying female aggression inDrosophila
Authors: Schretter Catherine E. , Aso Yoshinori , Dreher Marisa , Robie Alice A. , Dolan Michael-John , Chen Nan , Ito Masayoshi , Yang Tansy , Parekh Ruchi , Rubin Gerald M.
Published: May 2020

Aggressive social interactions are used to compete for limited resources and are regulated by complex sensory cues and the organism’s internal state. While both sexes exhibit aggression, its neuronal underpinnings are understudied in females. Here, we describe a set of connected neurons in the adultDrosophila melanogastercentral brain that drive female aggression. We identified a population of sexually dimorphic aIPg neurons whose optogenetic activation increased, and genetic inactivation reduced, female aggression. Analysis of GAL4 lines identified in an unbiased screen for increased female chasing behavior revealed the involvement of another sexually dimorphic neuron, pC1d, and implicated pC1d and aIPg neurons as core nodes regulating female aggression. pC1d activation increased female aggression and electron microscopy (EM) connectomic analysis demonstrated that aIPg neurons and pC1d have strong reciprocal connections. Our work reveals important regulatory components of the neuronal circuitry that underlies female aggressive social interactions and provides tools for their manipulation.
Metabolic cooperation among commensal bacteria supportsDrosophilajuvenile growth under nutritional stress
Authors: Consuegra Jessika , Grenier Théodore , Akherraz Houssam , Rahioui Isabelle , Gervais Hugo , da Silva Pedro , Leulier François
Published: May 2020

The gut microbiota shapes animal growth trajectory in stressful nutritional environments, but the molecular mechanisms behind such physiological benefits remain poorly understood. The gut microbiota is mostly composed of bacteria, which construct metabolic networks among themselves and with the host. Until now, how the metabolic activities of the microbiota contribute to host juvenile growth remains unknown. Here, usingDrosophilaas a host model, we report that two of its major bacterial partners,Lactobacillus plantarumandAcetobacter pomorumengage in a beneficial metabolic dialogue that boosts host juvenile growth despite nutritional stress. We pinpoint that lactate, produced byL. plantarum, is utilized byA. pomorumas an additional carbon source, andA. pomorumprovides essential amino-acids and vitamins toL. plantarum. Such bacterial cross-feeding provisions a set of anabolic metabolites to the host, which may foster host systemic growth despite poor nutrition.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

HIGHLIGHTS

L. plantarumfeeds lactate toA. pomorum

A. pomorumsupplies essential amino acids and vitamins toL. plantarum

Microbiota metabolic dialogue boosts Drosophila’s larval growth

Lactate utilization byAcetobacterreleases anabolic metabolites to larvae
Compensatory ion transport buffers daily protein rhythms to regulate osmotic balance and cellular physiology
Authors: Stangherlin Alessandra , Wong David C. S. , Barbiero Silvia , Watson Joseph L. , Zeng Aiwei , Seinkmane Estere , Chew Sew Peak , Beale Andrew D. , Hayter Edward A. , Guna Alina , Inglis Alison J. , Bartolami Eline , Matile Stefan , Lequeux Nicolas , Pons Thomas , Day Jason , van Ooijen Gerben , Voorhees Rebecca M. , Bechtold David A. , Derivery Emmanuel , Edgar Rachel S. , Newham Peter , O’Neill John S.
Published: May 2020

Between 6-20% of the cellular proteome is under circadian control to tune cell function with cycles of environmental change. For cell viability, and to maintain volume within narrow limits, the osmotic pressure exerted by changes in the soluble proteome must be compensated. The mechanisms and consequences underlying compensation are not known. Here, we show in cultured mammalian cells andin vivothat compensation requires electroneutral active transport of Na+, K+, and Cl−through differential activity of SLC12A family cotransporters. In cardiomyocytesex vivoandin vivo, compensatory ion fluxes alter their electrical activity at different times of the day. Perturbation of soluble protein abundance has commensurate effects on ion composition and cellular function across the circadian cycle. Thus, circadian regulation of the proteome impacts ion homeostasis with substantial consequences for the physiology of electrically active cells such as cardiomyocytes.
Incremental housing: harnessing informality at Villa Verde
Authors: O'Brien David , Carrasco Sandra , Dovey Kim
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper analyses the incremental housing process developed at Villa Verde, a housing project designed by the Chilean architecture firm Elemental, whose director Alejandro Aravena received the Pritzker Prize in 2016. This project is conceived within a social housing framework and designed as an affordable “half-house” to be incrementally extended by the owners.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on research undertaken in August 2017 with data obtained through site surveys, trace analysis, interviews with 32 residents and photographic surveys. The researchers mapped the modifications made by all households at Villa Verde in the four years after occupation.

Findings

The strategy of designing a formal framework for informal additions has generally been successful with most houses undergoing substantial expansion to a high standard of construction. The paper raises concerns regarding the settlement's urban design, response to local climate and the quality of shared open space. We also find evidence of over-development as informal additions extend across front and rear yards that are in some cases fully enclosed.

Originality/value

This project is critiqued within the context of a long series of architectural attempts to harness the productive capacities of self-help housing. Villa Verde engages the freedom to build in a self-organised manner within a formal framework. But what will stop these additions from escalating into a “slum”?
MHD slip flow and convective heat transfer due to a moving plate with effects of variable viscosity and thermal conductivity
Authors: Nandeppanavar Mahantesh M. , Kemparaju M.C. , Madhusudhan R. , Vaishali S.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The steady two-dimensional laminar boundary layer flow, heat and mass transfer over a flat plate with convective surface heat flux was considered. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations were transformed into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations and then solved numerically by Runge–Kutta method with the most efficient shooting technique. Then, the effect of variable viscosity and variable thermal conductivity on the fluid flow with thermal radiation effects and viscous dissipation was studied. Velocity, temperature and concentration profiles respectively were plotted for various values of pertinent parameters. It was found that the momentum slip acts as a boost for enhancement of the velocity profile in the boundary layer region, whereas temperature and concentration profiles decelerate with the momentum slip.

Design/methodology/approach

Numerical Solution is applied to find the solution of the boundary value problem.

Findings

Velocity, heat transfer analysis is done with comparing earlier results for some standard cases.

Originality/value

100
Understanding online community participation behavior and perceived benefits: a social exchange theory perspective
Authors: Jahan Nusrat , Kim Seung Woon
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Online communities (OCs) are the popular social environments in which people interact by sharing resources such as information, advice and thoughts on their mutual interests. Existing research lacks an explanation of the reasons of participation behavior in OCs and how such participation behavior provides members with perceived benefits. This study aims to observe how social exchange theory constructs (perceived members’ support and exchange ideology) affect online community participation behavior (OCPB), and moderated by exchange ideology (EI) and perceived ties, which in turn brings perceived benefits to its participants.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey method was followed to collect data, and structural equation modeling is used with 305 valid samples.

Findings

The results highlight the significant effects of perceived members’ support on OCPB. Participation behavior in OCs has critical effect on perceived benefits. The results also identify the moderating effects of EI and perceived tie, where perceived tie was insignificant.

Originality/value

The findings from this study bridge the literature gaps in the context of OCPB by demonstrating how practitioners and OC managers can enhance perceived members’ support, which result in OCPB, and thus provide the OC users with several perceived benefits.
Experimental Evidence on Socioeconomic Differences in Risk‐Taking and Risk Premiums
Authors: Li Zheng
Published: May 2020

Using a route choice experiment with embedded travel time variability, this study empirically estimates car commuters’ risk attitudes and taste preferences within a nonlinear mixed logit model. In addition to the identified overall risk‐taking behaviour, we find that risk attitudes covary with some sociodemographic characteristics, that is, older commuters are more risk‐taking than young ones and higher‐income commuters are less risk‐taking than low‐income ones. The implications of accounting for systematic risk attitude heterogeneity for valuing travellers’ willingness to pay for travel time improvement are also discussed.
Tracking the Covid-19 Conversation
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: May 2020

As the coronavirus pandemic took hold, there was little time for much else
Tests in Short Supply? Try Group Testing
Authors: Bilder Christopher R. , Iwen Peter C. , Abdalhamid Baha , Tebbs Joshua M. , McMahan Christopher S.
Published: May 2020

Christopher R. Bilder, Peter C. Iwen, Baha Abdalhamid, Joshua M. Tebbs and Christopher S. McMahan explain how, by pooling specimens, testing capacity for SARS-CoV-2 can be increased
Comparing diversity levels in environmental samples: DNA sequence capture and metabarcoding approaches using 18S and COI genes
Authors: Giebner Hendrik , Langen Kathrin , Bourlat Sarah J. , Kukowka Sandra , Mayer Christoph , Astrin Jonas J. , Misof Bernhard , Fonseca Vera G.
Published: May 2020

Environmental DNA studies targeting multiple taxa using metabarcoding provide remarkable insights into levels of species diversity in any habitat. The main drawbacks are the presence of primer bias and difficulty in identifying rare species. We tested a DNA sequence‐capture method in parallel with the metabarcoding approach to reveal possible advantages of one method over the other. Both approaches were performed using the same eDNA samples and the same 18S and COI regions, followed by high throughput sequencing. Metabarcoded eDNA libraries were PCR amplified with one primer pair from 18S and COI genes. DNA sequence‐capture libraries were enriched with 3,639 baits targeting the same gene regions. We tested amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) and operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in silico approaches for both markers and methods, using for this purpose the metabarcoding data set. ASVs methods uncovered more species for the COI gene, whereas the opposite occurred for the 18S gene, suggesting that clustering reads into OTUs could bias diversity richness especially using 18S with relaxed thresholds. Additionally, metabarcoding and DNA sequence‐capture recovered 80%–90% of the control sample species. DNA sequence‐capture was 8x more expensive, nonetheless it identified 1.5x more species for COI and 13x more genera for 18S than metabarcoding. Both approaches offer reliable results, sharing ca. 40% species and 72% families and retrieve more taxa when nuclear and mitochondrial markers are combined. eDNA metabarcoding is quite well established and low‐cost, whereas DNA‐sequence capture for biodiversity assessment is still in its infancy, is more time‐consuming but provides more taxonomic assignments.
New Lobellini (Collembola: Neanuridae) from Queensland contribute to understanding distribution and ecology of Australian fauna
Authors: Smolis Adrian , Greenslade Penelope
Published: May 2020

Two new species from Queensland rainforest belonging to genera Hemilobella and Sphaeronura are described and illustrated with drawings and colour photographs. Hemilobella matildae sp. nov. Smolis and Greenslade is characterised by elongated tubercles laterally on body and an elongated ogival labrum. Sphaeronura ameliae sp. nov. Smolis and Greenslade differs from other taxa in the genus in chaetotaxic features and the presence of a male ventral organ. A new record of Australonura scoparia is included. The high species richness of lowland rainforests, in which these log inhabiting saproxylic species were found, is noted, and the contribution that extreme events such as cyclones in maintaining the fallen timber habitat is emphasised. The bright colour of these species may be caused by sequestered pigments from the slime moulds on which they feed. The colour probably also acts as a warning to predators that individuals are distasteful. A description of the distributions, characteristics, distinctiveness and possible genesis of Australian fauna of the subfamily Neanurinae is presented, and a checklist of species and key to all Australian genera of the subfamily is included. Species in this subfamily are predominately short‐range endemics so should be surveyed whenever wet forests are under threat from logging or urban expansion.
The curly coat phenotype of the Ural Rex feline breed is associated with a mutation in the lipase H gene
Authors: Manakhov A. D. , Andreeva T. V. , Rogaev E. I.
Published: May 2020

Mutations in lipase H (LIPH) and lysophosphatidic acid receptor 6 (LPAR6), which are essential for the lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signalling pathway, are associated with hypotrichosis and wooly hair in humans. Mutations in LPAR6 and keratin 71 (KRT71), result in unusual fur growth and hair structure in several cat breeds (Cornish Rex, Devon Rex and Selkirk Rex). Here, we performed target sequencing of the LIPH, LPAR6 and KRT71 genes in six cat breeds with specific hair‐growth phenotypes. A LIPH genetic variant (LIPH:c.478_483del; LIPH:p.Ser160_Gly161del) was found in Ural Rex cats with curly coats from Russia, but was absent in all other cat breeds tested. In silico three‐dimensional analysis of the LIPH mutant protein revealed a contraction of the α3‐helix structure in the enzyme phospholipid binding site that may affect its activity.
Temporo‐spatial and kinetic gait parameters in English setter dogs
Authors: Gündemir Ozan , Duro Sokol , Aydın Kaya Didar , Zenginler Yazgan Yonca
Published: May 2020

Walking analysis systems have begun to be used in veterinary medicine in recent years. The pressure‐sensitive walkway is one of the systems through which we can obtain temporo‐spatial and kinetic variables of walking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the walking characteristics of English Setter dogs using a pressure‐sensitive system. Twenty‐five English Setter dogs were included in the study. Temporo‐spatial and kinetic gait parameters were obtained with the pressure‐sensitive walkway system. Centre of pressure values were taken separately for the forelimbs and hindlimbs and were statistically analysed. The force values in the forelimb were found to be greater than in the hindlimb during walking. According to the results of dynamic pedobarographic evaluation, the highest‐pressure values were found at the 2nd and 3rd digital pads for the forelimbs and on the 3rd and 4th digital pads for the hindlimbs. During the stance, 64.58% of the weight was found to be on the forelimbs. No difference was found between the forelimbs and the hindlimbs in centre of pressure analysis. As conclusion, the gait data obtained from the English Setter dogs can be used in future research to identify animals that may have neurological or orthopaedic problems.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: efficacy and safety of treatments for opioid‐induced constipation
Authors: Vijayvargiya Priya , Camilleri Michael , Vijayvargiya Pooja , Erwin Patricia , Murad M. Hassan
Published: May 2020

Background

When opioid‐induced constipation is treated with centrally acting opioid antagonists, there may be opioid withdrawal or aggravation of pain due to inhibition of μ‐opioid analgesia. This led to the development of peripherally acting μ‐opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs).

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of available PAMORAs and other approved or experimental treatments for relieving constipation in patients with opioid‐induced constipation, based on a systematic review and meta‐analysis of published studies.

Methods

A search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and EBM Reviews Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was completed in July 2019 for randomised trials compared to placebo. FDA approved doses or highest studied dose was evaluated. Efficacy was based on diverse endpoints, including continuous variables (the bowel function index, number of spontaneous bowel movements and stool consistency based on Bristol Stool Form Scale), or responder analysis (combination of >3 spontaneous bowel movements or complete spontaneous bowel movements plus 1 spontaneous bowel movement or complete spontaneous bowel movements, respectively, over baseline [so‐called FDA endpoints]). Adverse effects evaluated included central opioid withdrawal, serious adverse events, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

Results

We included 35 trials at low risk of bias enrolling 13 566 patients. All PAMORAs demonstrated efficacy on diverse patient response endpoints. There was greater efficacy with approved doses of the PAMORAs (methylnaltrexone, naloxegol and naldemidine), with lower efficacy or lower efficacy and greater adverse effects with combination oxycodone with naloxone, lubiprostone and linaclotide.

Conclusions

Therapeutic response in opioid‐induced constipation is best achieved with the PAMORAs, methylnaltrexone, naloxegol and naldemidine, which are associated with low risk of serious adverse events.
Readying for Reunification: North Korean Refugees' Aspiration as Citizens of South Korea
Authors: Kim Hagyun , Hocking Clare
Published: May 2020

In 2019, 33,523 North Korean refugees were granted citizenship and lived in South Korea. There is growing concern that rather than guaranteeing participation, their citizenship is associated with marginalization, alienation, and isolation. Guided by an occupational science perspective and Straussian grounded theory, this study explored how they participate in society through engaging in everyday activities using 10 semi‐structured interviews that were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. It found that the South Korean governmental stance toward reunification, compounded by ethnic homogeneity, eased the participants' transition to the host society. In response, participants engaged in or pursed activities they hoped would prove useful for the reunification of Korea. Readying for reunification encapsulated a meaning participants attached to their everyday activities while pursuing citizenship of South Korea. This article concludes by recommending the urgent need for social outreach initiatives, where North Korean refugees utilize their trans‐national knowledge for the reunification.
Hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension—Utilizing experiments of nature
Authors: Gassmann Max , Cowburn Andrew , Gu Hong , Li Jia , Rodriguez Marisela , Babicheva Aleksandra , Jain Pritesh P. , Xiong Mingmei , Gassmann Norina N. , Yuan Jason X.‐J. , Wilkins Martin R. , Zhao Lan
Published: May 2020

An increase in pulmonary artery pressure is a common observation in adult mammals exposed to global alveolar hypoxia. It is considered a maladaptive response that places an increased workload on the right ventricle. The mechanisms initiating and maintaining the elevated pressure are of considerable interest in understanding pulmonary vascular homeostasis. There is an expectation that identifying the key molecules in the integrated vascular response to hypoxia will inform potential drug targets. One strategy is to take advantage of experiments of nature, specifically, to understand the genetic basis for the inter‐individual variation in the pulmonary vascular response to acute and chronic hypoxia. To date, detailed phenotyping of highlanders has focused on haematocrit and oxygen saturation rather than cardiovascular phenotypes. This review explores what we can learn from those studies with respect to the pulmonary circulation.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Risk factors, comorbidities, and comedications in cardioprotection. To view the other articles in this section visithttp://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.1/issuetoc
Mechanism underlying the development of myeloproliferative neoplasms through mutant calreticulin
Authors: Edahiro Yoko , Araki Marito , Komatsu Norio
Published: May 2020

Deregulation of cytokine signaling is frequently associated with various pathological conditions, including malignancies. In patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), recurrent somatic mutations in the calreticulin (CALR) gene, which encodes a molecular chaperone that resides in the endoplasmic reticulum, have been reported. Studies have defined mutant CALR as an oncogene promoting the development of MPN, and deciphered a novel molecular mechanism by which mutant CALR constitutively activates thrombopoietin receptor MPL and its downstream molecules to induce cellular transformation. The mechanism of interaction and activation of MPL by mutant CALR is unique, not only due to the latter forming a homomultimeric complex through a novel mutant‐specific sequence generated by frameshift mutation, but also for its ability to interact with immature asparagine‐linked glycan for eventual engagement with immature MPL in the endoplasmic reticulum. The complex formed between mutant CALR and MPL is then transported to the cell surface, where it induces constitutive activation of downstream kinase JAK2 bound to MPL. Refined structural and cell biological studies can provide an in‐depth understanding of this unusual mechanism of receptor activation by a mutant molecular chaperone. Mutant CALR is also involved in modulation of the immune response, transcription, and intracellular homeostasis, which could contribute to the development of MPN. In the present article, we comprehensively review the current understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms for mutant molecular chaperone‐induced cellular transformation.
Comparison of four oxidants activated through tetraacetylethylenediamine for developing sustainable and rapid degradation of organic dye
Authors: Dong Yongchun , Bian Liran , Zhang Congcan , Li Bing
Published: May 2020

Four common oxidants, including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), sodium percarbonate (SPC), sodium perborate (SPB) and sodium persulphate (SPS), were activated with tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) to degrade an azo dye, CI Reactive Red 195, in water, for building a novel and rapid oxidative system comprising the merits of cost‐effectiveness and high sustainability. Elevated temperature and high pH level enhanced the activation effect of TAED for accelerating dye degradation. Peracetic acids were confirmed to be the main oxidative species for dye degradation in four TAED/oxidant systems. Hydroxyl radicals and sulphate radicals were also involved in dye degradation in the TAED/SPS system, which showed a stronger oxidative capacity than the other three systems over a wide pH range. More importantly, the addition of inorganic salts or surfactants also favoured the dye degradation in TAED/oxidant systems. Although a slow mineralisation process of the dye was found when the TAED/SPC or SPS system was used, low‐toxic intermediates were detected after the degradation.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided bilateral biliary drainage through the mesh of the metal stents using a balloon occlusion method
Authors: Nakahara Kazunari , Morita Ryo , Itoh Fumio
Published: May 2020

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Patterns of alimentary resource use by dung beetles in introduced Brazilian pastures: Cattle versus sheep dung
Authors: Correa César M. A. , Peres Nathália D. , Holdbrook Robert
Published: May 2020

Dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) perform essential ecological functions in pastures, such as dung removal, nutrient recycling and parasite control. However, the patterns of alimentary use by dung beetles in introduced Brazilian pastures are poorly known. Here, we compared dung beetle species richness, abundance and species composition in cattle and sheep dung, and identified the dung beetle species preference by each dung type. In January 2019, dung beetles were sampled with pitfall traps baited with cattle and sheep dung in 12 introduced pastures (Urochloa spp.), in Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. A total of 592 individuals belonging to 14 species of dung beetles were collected. Of the 14 species sampled, nine were recorded in both dung types, five were found exclusively in sheep dung and no species was exclusive to cattle dung. Species richness and abundance were higher in sheep dung. Species composition was different between the dung types. Dichotomius bos (Blanchard), Genieridium bidens (Balthasar), Onthophagus aeneus Blanchard and Trichillum externepunctatum Preudhomme de Borre were associated with sheep dung. Our results provide evidence that sheep dung is more attractive to dung beetles with a distinct community species between the two dung types, although the studied pastures have never been used before for sheep breeding. Thus, our data shows that the introduction of a new alimentary resource (e.g. sheep dung) can be an important strategy to help to obtain a more diverse dung beetle assemblage in introduced Brazilian pastures.
Biogeography of soil microbial habitats across France
Authors: Karimi Battle , Villerd Jean , Dequiedt Samuel , Terrat Sébastien , Chemidlin‐Prévost Bouré Nicolas , Djemiel Christophe , Lelièvre Mélanie , Tripied Julie , Nowak Virginie , Saby Nicolas P. A. , Bispo Antonio , Jolivet Claudy , Arrouays Dominique , Wincker Patrick , Cruaud Corinne , Ranjard Lionel
Published: May 2020

Aim

Intensive studies since the beginning of the 21st century have provided vast amounts of knowledge about soil microbial diversity at local and global scales. However, microbial habitats have been poorly investigated at large scale. This study aims to characterize soil bacterial habitats across France for the first time by integrating the description of numerous environmental factors and human activities.

Location

We focus on the large spatial scale of mainland France using the largest spatially explicit soil sampling set available across France (2,173 soils, area = 5.5 × 105 km2).

Major taxa studied

Soil bacteria and archaea were studied by a high throughput sequencing approach targeting the V3‐V4 region of the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene directly amplified from soil DNA.

Methods

We applied decision tree learning and geostatistical approaches combining the abundant data on soil microbes and large‐scale environmental description in order to conduct a comprehensive analysis of soil bacterial and archaeal communities.

Results

We identified a complex mosaic of 16 distinct terrestrial habitats, based on soil type and management (pH, C : N ratio, land use). As for plants and animals, each habitat hosted generalist and specialist taxa and a specific interaction network directly or indirectly impacted by human activities.

Main conclusions

In a context of global change, our results emphasize that the policies for biodiversity and habitat conservation should now integrate soil microorganisms conceptually and technically.
CFTR promotes malignant glioma development via up‐regulation of Akt/Bcl2‐mediated anti‐apoptosis pathway
Authors: Zhao Mingyue , Zhang Jieting , Huang Wenqing , Dong Jianda , Guo Jinghui , U Kin Pong , Weng ZhiHui , Liu Si , Chan Hsiao Chang , Feng Hua , Jiang Xiaohua
Published: May 2020

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a cAMP‐activated Cl‐ channel, is extensively expressed in the epithelial cells of various tissues and organs. Accumulating evidence indicates that aberrant expression or mutation of CFTR is related to carcinoma development. Malignant gliomas are the most common and aggressive intracranial tumours; however, the role of CFTR in the development of malignant gliomas is unclear. Here, we report that CFTR is expressed in malignant glioma cell lines. Suppression of CFTR channel function or knockdown of CFTR suppresses glioma cell viability whereas overexpression of CFTR promotes it. Additionally, overexpression of CFTR suppresses apoptosis and promotes glioma progression in both subcutaneous and orthotopic xenograft models. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator activates Akt/Bcl2 pathway, and suppression of PI3K/Akt pathway abolishes CFTR overexpression–induced up‐regulation of Bcl2 (MK‐2206 and LY294002) and cell viability (MK‐2206). More importantly, the protein expression level of CFTR is significantly increased in glioblastoma patient samples. Altogether, our study has revealed a mechanism by which CFTR promotes glioma progression via up‐regulation of Akt/Bcl2‐mediated anti‐apoptotic pathway, which warrants future studies into the potential of using CFTR as a therapeutic target for glioma treatment.
Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxin binds to erythrocyte MAL receptors and triggers phosphatidylserine exposure
Authors: Geng Zhijun , Huang Jing , Kang Lin , Gao Shan , Yuan Yuan , Li Yanwei , Wang Jing , Xin Wenwen , Wang Jinglin
Published: May 2020

Epsilon toxin (ETX) is a 33‐kDa pore‐forming toxin produced by type B and D strains of Clostridium perfringens. We previously found that ETX caused haemolysis of human red blood cells, but not of erythrocytes from other species. The cellular and molecular mechanisms of ETX‐mediated haemolysis are not well understood. Here, we investigated the effects of ETX on erythrocyte volume and the role of the putative myelin and lymphocyte (MAL) receptors in ETX‐mediated haemolysis. We observed that ETX initially decreased erythrocyte size, followed by a gradual increase in volume until lysis. Moreover, ETX triggered phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure and enhanced ceramide abundance in erythrocytes. Cell shrinkage, PS exposure and enhanced ceramide abundance were preceded by increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Interestingly, lentivirus‐mediated RNA interference studies in the human erythroleukaemia cell line (HEL) cells confirmed that MAL contributes to ETX‐induced cytotoxicity. Additionally, ETX was shown to bind to MAL in vitro. The results of this study recommend that ETX‐mediated haemolysis is associated with MAL receptor activation in human erythrocytes. These data imply that interventions affecting local MAL‐mediated autocrine and paracrine signalling may prevent ETX‐mediated erythrocyte damage.
Comment on: Antipsychotics and the Risk of Mortality or Cardiopulmonary Arrest in Hospitalized Adults
Authors: Lam Kenneth
Published: May 2020

See the Reply by Basciotta et al
Combined microwaves and fractional microablative CO2 laser treatment for postpartum abdominal laxity
Authors: Bonan Paolo , Verdelli Alice
Published: May 2020

Background

Postpartum abdominal changes represent a major esthetic concern affecting women. As the abdomen stretches during pregnancy and some of the muscles lose tone, there is an increased skin laxity and a loss of abdominal elasticity. As a result, the abdomen becomes saggy.

Aims

To evaluate the performance of a combined microwaves and fractional microablative CO2 laser treatment for reshaping and improvement of abdomen texture/laxity and striae distensae in postpartum women.

Patients/Methods

Fifteen women (median age 38 years) received three monthly abdomen treatments with a new microwaves platform, the ONDA Coolwaves® (DEKA) system, followed by a treatment with fractional microablative CO2 laser (SmartXide2; DEKA) a month thereafter. We followed up each patient's weight and nutritional habits. Outcome was assessed using reproducible circumference and abdominal measurements, digital and 3D photography, the laxity score as well as patient satisfaction index.

Results

The overall mean circumferences reduction was 3.6 ± 1.2 cm. Significant improvement in skin laxity and tightening was noted by physicians and patients as well as a reduction of striae distensae. Interestingly, as a result of skin remodeling, repositioning of the umbilicus was also demonstrated. Treatments were well tolerated with no side effects.

Conclusions

Our data showed a sustainable reduction in circumference and improvement in appearance of abdomen in postpartum women, without compromising patients' safety.
Freezing, Melting, and Light Stress on the Photophysiology of Ice Algae: Ex Situ Incubation of the Ice Algal diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus (Bacillariophyceae) Using an Ice Tank
Authors: Yoshida Kazuhiro , Seger Andreas , Kennedy Fraser , McMinn Andrew , Suzuki Koji
Published: May 2020

Sea ice algae contribute up to 25% of the primary productivity of polar seas and seed large‐scale ice‐edge blooms. Fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and light associated with the freeze/thaw cycle can significantly impact the photophysiology of ice‐associated taxa. The effects of multiple co‐stressors (i.e., freezing temperature and high brine salinity or sudden high light exposure) on the photophysiology of ice algae were investigated in a series of ice tank experiments with the polar diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus under different light intensities. When algal cells were frozen into the ice, the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II photochemistry (PSII; Fv/Fm) decreased possibly due to the damage of PSII reaction centers and/or high brine salinity stress suppressing the reduction capacity downstream of PSII. Expression of the rbcL gene was highly up‐regulated, suggesting that cells initiated strategies to enhance survival upon freezing in. Algae contained within the ice‐matrix displayed similar levels of Fv/Fm regardless of the light treatments. Upon melting out, cells were exposed to high light (800 μmol photons · m−2 · s−1), resulting in a rapid decline in Fv/Fm and significant up‐regulation of non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ). These results suggest that ice algae employed safety valves (i.e., NPQ) to maintain their photosynthetic capability during the sudden environmental changes. Our results infer that sea ice algae are highly adaptable when exposed to multiple co‐stressors and that their success can, in part, be explained by the ability to rapidly modify their photosynthetic competence – a key factor contributing to algal bloom formation in the polar seas.