bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical Assessment and Validation of a Rapid and Sensitive SARS-CoV-2 Test Using Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Without the Need for RNA Extraction
Authors: Anahtar Melis N , McGrath Graham E G , Rabe Brian A , Tanner Nathan A , White Benjamin A , Lennerz Jochen K M , Branda John A , Cepko Constance L , Rosenberg Eric S 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Amid the enduring pandemic, there is an urgent need for expanded access to rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing worldwide without specialized equipment. We developed a simple test that uses colorimetric reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) to detect severe acute resrpiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 40 minutes from sample collection to result.

Methods
We tested 135 nasopharyngeal specimens from patients evaluated for COVID-19 infection at Massachusetts General Hospital. Specimens were either added directly to RT-LAMP reactions, inactivated by a combined chemical and heat treatment step, or inactivated then purified with a silica particle–based concentration method. Amplification was performed with 2 SARS-CoV-2-specific primer sets and an internal specimen control; the resulting color change was visually interpreted.

Results
Direct RT-LAMP testing of unprocessed specimens could only reliably detect samples with abundant SARS-CoV-2 (&gt;3 000 000 copies/mL), with sensitivities of 50% (95% CI, 28%–72%) and 59% (95% CI, 43%–73%) in samples collected in universal transport medium and saline, respectively, compared with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Adding an upfront RNase inactivation step markedly improved the limit of detection to at least 25 000 copies/mL, with 87.5% (95% CI, 72%–95%) sensitivity and 100% specificity (95% CI, 87%–100%). Using both inactivation and purification increased the assay sensitivity by 10-fold, achieving a limit of detection comparable to commercial real-time PCR-based diagnostics.

Conclusions
By incorporating a fast and inexpensive sample preparation step, RT-LAMP accurately detects SARS-CoV-2 with limited equipment for about US$6 per sample, making this a potentially ideal assay to increase testing capacity, especially in resource-limited settings.
An Ultrafast Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled With Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Cannabidiol Monitoring in Pediatric Refractory Epilepsy
Authors: Pérez Montilla Carlos A. , Schaiquevich Paula S. , Cáceres Guido Paulo , Caraballo Roberto H. , Reyes Valenzuela Gabriela , Cruz Cintia V. , García Bournissen Facundo 
Published: December 2020

Background:
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a nonpsychoactive natural product that has been increasingly used as a promising new drug for the management of neurological conditions such as refractory epilepsy. Development of rapid and sensitive methods to quantitate CBD is essential to evaluate its pharmacokinetics in humans, particularly in children. The objective of this work was to develop and validate an ultrafast ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method for CBD quantitation that is capable of detecting major CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) metabolites in the plasma of pediatric refractory epilepsy patients.

Methods:
Eight-point CBD calibration curves were prepared using 60 µL of plasma from healthy volunteers. Samples were analyzed in a Shimadzu Nexera X2 UHPLC system, which was coupled to a Sciex QTRAP 6500 mass spectrometer. Chromatography was optimized in acetonitrile (ACN)/water with a 70%–90% gradient of ACN in 2 minutes. Multiple reaction monitoring transitions of major CBD and THC metabolites were optimized in patient plasma.

Results:
The optimized UHPLC-MS/MS method was validated for the linear range (1–300 ng/mL) of CBD (r2 = 0.996). The limit of quantification and limit of detection were 0.26 and 0.86 ng/mL, respectively. Accuracy and precision met the acceptable validation limits. CBD recovery and matrix effects were 83.9 ± 13.9% and 117.4 ± 4.5%, respectively. The method was successfully applied to quantify CBD and detect the major CBD and THC metabolites in clinical samples. 7-COOH-CBD was the most intensely detected metabolite followed by glucuronide conjugates.

Conclusions:
A simple and sensitive method for rapidly monitoring CBD and identifying relevant metabolites was developed. Its applicability in samples from children treated for epilepsy was demonstrated, making it an excellent alternative for performing pharmacokinetic studies.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Thiopurine Metabolite Levels and Biochemical Remission in Autoimmune Hepatitis
Authors: Bolia Rishi , Goel Akhil , Srivastava Anshu 
Published: December 2020

Background:
The utility of measuring thiopurine metabolites (TM) to individualize therapy in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) has not been defined, and the evidence regarding its use in clinical practice is heterogeneous. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the mean concentration of TM between patients in biochemical remission and those not in remission.

Methods:
A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for keywords related to TM and AIH. Two reviewers independently searched and selected studies comparing the levels of 6-methyl mercaptopurine (6-MMP) and 6-thioguanine nucleotide (6-TGN) and their ratio in cases of AIH in remission and otherwise. Meta-analysis was performed by calculating the weighted mean difference using the inverse variance heterogeneity model.

Results:
A total of 1066 records were identified through systematic search; of which, 7 (n = 3 pediatric, n = 4 adults) were considered for inclusion, and 442 TM measurements (n = 128 in children) were analyzed. Mean 6-TGN levels were significantly higher among patients in remission than in those who were not, with a pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) of 15.67 [95% confidence interval (CI), 6.68–24.66] pmol/8 × 108 red blood cells (RBC). The difference was higher in the pediatric age group (WMD, 56.11; 95% CI, 13.60–98.62) than in adults (WMD, 13.77; 95% CI, 4.58–22.97). There was no significant difference in the 6-MMP levels (WMD, −431.7; 95% CI, −1237.4 to 373.9 pmol/8 × 108 RBC; I2 = 82%; n = 3 studies) or 6-MMP/6-TGN ratio among the patients who were in biochemical remission and those who were not (WMD, −0.97; 95% CI, −5.77 to 3.84; I2 = 82%; n = 3 studies).

Conclusions:
This meta-analysis suggests a link between 6-TGN levels and biochemical remission in AIH. Further high-quality studies are required to determine the therapeutic cutoff of 6-TGN.
High-resolution wave dynamics in the lower solar atmosphere
Authors: Jess D. B. , Keys P. H. , Stangalini M. , Jafarzadeh S. 
Published: December 2020

The magnetic and convective nature of the Sun’s photosphere provides a unique platform from which generated waves can be modelled, observed and interpreted across a wide breadth of spatial and temporal scales. As oscillations are generatedin-situor emerge through the photospheric layers, the interplay between the rapidly evolving densities, temperatures and magnetic field strengths provides dynamic evolution of the embedded wave modes as they propagate into the tenuous solar chromosphere. A focused science team was assembled to discuss the current challenges faced in wave studies in the lower solar atmosphere, including those related to spectropolarimetry and radiative transfer in the optically thick regions. Following the Theo Murphy international scientific meeting held at Chicheley Hall during February 2020, the scientific team worked collaboratively to produce 15 independent publications for the current Special Issue, which are introduced here. Implications from the current research efforts are discussed in terms of upcoming next-generation observing and high-performance computing facilities.This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘High-resolution wave dynamics in the lower solar atmosphere’.
Oscillations observed in umbra, plage, quiet-Sun and the polarity inversion line of active region 11158 using Helioseismic Magnetic Imager/Solar Dynamics Observatory data
Authors: Norton A. A. , Stutz R. B. , Welsch B. T. 
Published: December 2020

Using data from the Helioseismic Magnetic Imager, we report on the amplitudes and phase relations of oscillations in quiet-Sun, plage, umbra and the polarity inversion line (PIL) of an active region NOAA#11158. We employ Fourier, wavelet and cross-correlation spectra analysis. Waves with 5 min periods are observed in umbra, PIL and plage with common phase values of
ϕ
(
v
,
I
) =
π
/2,
ϕ
(
v
,
B
los
) = −(
π
/2). In addition,
ϕ
(
I
,
B
los
) =
π
in plage are observed. These phase values are consistent with slow standing or fast standing surface sausage wave modes. The line width variations, and their phase relations with intensity and magnetic oscillations, show different values within the plage and PIL regions, which may offer a way to further differentiate wave mode mechanics. Significant Doppler velocity oscillations are present along the PIL, meaning that plasma motion is perpendicular to the magnetic field lines, a signature of Alvènic waves. A time–distance diagram along a section of the PIL shows Eastward propagating Doppler oscillations converting into magnetic oscillations; the propagation speeds range between 2 and 6 km s
−1
. Lastly, a 3 min wave is observed in select regions of the umbra in the magnetogram data.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘High-resolution wave dynamics in the lower solar atmosphere’.
Public procurement in Malaysia: objectives and procurement principles
Authors: Abul Hassan Sitti Hasinah , Ismail Suhaiza , Ahmad @ Abdul Mutalib Hawa 
Published: December 2020

PurposeThe objectives of this paper are twofold. Firstly, to examine the importance of Malaysian public procurement objectives and secondly, to investigate the extent to which government suppliers adhere to public procurement principles.Design/methodology/approachFor achieving the objectives, a questionnaire survey was used. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed to government suppliers involved in the government tendering process. In return, a total of 107 useable questionnaires were received, representing a response rate of 42.8%. Descriptive statistics of the means score, standard deviation and mean score ranking were used to analyse the data.FindingsThe results revealed that the most important public procurement objective is “to ensure a continuous supply of material and services to meet the government needs from the best and reliable sources”. On the other hand, the objectives “to expand the local industrial sector by means of transfer of technology and expertise to suit the nation's needs” and “to promote alternative and multiple sourcing through supplier development according to the aspirations and vision of the government” are perceived as not important by the government suppliers. The findings also discovered a moderate level of adherence to Malaysia's public procurement principles, which consist of public accountability, transparency, open and fair competition, fair dealing and value for money. Amongst these principles, the most adhered to is the open and fair competition principle and the least adhered to is the transparency principle.Originality/valueThis study is one of the few studies that assess the government suppliers' perceptions of public procurement in Malaysia. More importantly, this study may give some ideas to various parties concerning the areas in which improvement is required to ensure that equal importance is given to the public procurement objectives and better adherence to the public procurement principles in Malaysia.
Security risk management: a case of Qalhat liquefied natural gas terminal
Authors: Mokhtari Kambiz , Abdul Rahman Noorul Shaiful Fitri , Soltani Hamid Reza , Al Rashdi Salim Ahmed , Abdul Aziz Mohammed Al Balushi Kawkab 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
At the substantive level, there exists a gap in knowledge about the position of security risk management (i.e. SRM) during the terminals’ operations and management; particularly when there is potential for deliberate anti-security acts. Correspondingly, the purpose of this paper is a need for more practical research to find out the justification for the existence of the SRM and different techniques for its appropriate execution on these logistics infrastructures principally with due regard to the potential requirements in the near future.

Design/methodology/approach
Both qualitative and quantitative techniques are used in this study incorporating fuzzy set theory and risk assessment matrix to achieve the research objective.

Findings
A designed SRM framework tailored for Qalhat liquefied petroleum gas (LNG) terminal in Sultanate of Oman was established to manage the security threats which can be resulted from any probable terrorist attacks.

Research limitations/implications
The limited numbers of experts for the purpose of the addressed SRM are causing challenges in data collection.

Practical implications
The pressures for enhanced attention to critical infrastructure security have fostered new challenges for petrochemical seaports and terminals (PSTs). These tendencies dictate to maintain comprehensive security regimens that can be integrated with national and international strategies to support the country’s security against terrorism.

Originality/value
The development of the security risk factor table model in the case of Qalhat LNG Terminal.
Motivating workers: how leaders apply self-determination theory in organizations
Authors: Forner Vivien W. , Jones Michael , Berry Yoke , Eidenfalk Joakim 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
Self-determination theory (SDT), offers a theoretical framework for enhancing employee motivation and stimulating positive outcomes such as commitment, well-being and engagement, in organizations. This paper aims to investigate the application of SDT among leaders and delineate practical managerial approaches for supporting basic psychological needs in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach
Participants were 51 leaders who had personally applied SDT with their own followers. Data were collected via free-listing method and analysed to extrapolate examples of SDT-application that are both practically salient and aligned to theoretic tenets of SDT.

Findings
The findings reveal how SDT is operationalized by leaders to support basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness in the workplace. The SDT-informed management strategies are discussed in relation to the literature and alongside case scenarios to illustrate approaches for integrating elements of SDT into day-to-day management activities.

Originality/value
Despite extensive literature support for SDT, very little empirical attention has been paid to examining how the theory is applied, interpreted and/or used by practitioners in real world settings. This research is the first to draw on the lived-experience of practitioners who have applied SDT, contributes previously unexplored strategies for supporting workers’ basic psychological needs and responds to calls for SDT research to identify a broader range of managerial behaviours that support employee motivation.
Analyse du différentiel de performances scolaires dans les pays PASEC sur la base de la régression quantile contrefactuelle
Authors: Foueka Romuald 
Published: December 2020

RésuméLe développement humain s'apparente à la liberté de réaliser le plein potentiel de chaque vie humaine. Notre étude décompose le différentiel de performances scolaires dans l'optique de trouver les éléments clivants pouvant être éliminés afin d'assurer l'objectif d'apprentissage pour tous dans les pays PASEC. L'analyse statistique révèle que l’écart de performance est grand selon le milieu de résidence ou le type d’école. Les estimations portent sur la régression quantile inconditionnelle (contrefactuelle) du modèle de Firpo et al. (2018). L'estimation des fonctions d'influence recentrée suivant chaque distinction montrent que les ressources scolaires agissent variablement sur les quantiles. Les effets positifs portent davantage sur les élèves faibles. En décomposant, nous trouvons que l'effet composition explique mieux le différentiel de scores par rapport à l'effet structurel selon le milieu ou le type d’école. Suivant le genre, l'effet caractéristique prime uniquement en lecture. La décomposition contrefactuelle révèle qu'une éventuelle permutation de caractéristiques entre les groupes entrainerait une baisse de l'effet caractéristique selon le type d’école et une hausse de cet effet selon le lieu et le genre. Agir davantage sur les ressources scolaires permettrait de lutter contre les écarts de performances et de relever le niveau d'apprentissage des plus faibles.
Conceptualizing cyber crises
Authors: Backman Sarah 
Published: December 2020

AbstractDespite its rising relevance, the cyber crisis is a largely unexplored phenomenon empirically and conceptually. This article suggests that cyber crises can be understood specifically as transboundary crises. Through the comparative analysis of two cases of cyber crises, Estonia 2007 and UK 2017, the study investigates whether the time gap and the difference in cyberattack type between the cases (untargeted ransomware vs. targeted DDoS) correlate with variation in transboundary crisis features and crisis management challenges during the performance of central crisis management tasks in the national settings of the cases. The analysis identifies some variation between the cases in terms of transboundary crisis features but finds that the cases entailed similar prominent crisis management challenges during the performance of central crisis management tasks. Implications are discussed in terms of how to advance our understanding of cyber crises and the practical strategic management requirements they entail.
Comprehensive mapping of immune tolerance yields a regulatory TNF receptor 2 signature in a murine model of successful Fel d 1‐specific immunotherapy using high‐dose CpG adjuvant
Authors: Leonard Cathy , Montamat Guillem , Davril Caroline , Domingues Olivia , Hunewald Oliver , Revets Dominique , Guerin Coralie , Blank Simon , Heckendorn Justine , Jardon Gauthier , Hentges François , Ollert Markus 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe prevalence of allergy to cat is expanding worldwide. Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) has advantages over symptomatic pharmacotherapy and promises long‐lasting disease control in allergic patients. However, there is still a need to improve cat AIT regarding efficacy, safety, and adherence to the treatment. Here, we aim to boost immune tolerance to the major cat allergen Fel d 1 by increasing the anti‐inflammatory activity of AIT with the established immunomodulatory adjuvant CpG, but at a higher dose than previously used in AIT.MethodsTogether with CpG, we used endotoxin‐free Fel d 1 as therapeutic allergen throughout the study in a BALB/c model of allergy to Fel d 1, thus mimicking the conditions of human AIT trials. Multidimensional immune phenotyping including mass cytometry (CyTOF) was applied to analyze AIT‐specific immune signatures.ResultsWe show that AIT with high‐dose CpG in combination with endotoxin‐free Fel d 1 reverts all major hallmarks of allergy. High‐dimensional CyTOF analysis of the immune cell signatures initiating and sustaining the AIT effect indicates the simultaneous engagement of both, the pDC‐Treg and B‐cell axis, with the emergence of a systemic GATA3+ FoxP3hi biTreg population. The regulatory immune signature also suggests the involvement of the anti‐inflammatory TNF/TNFR2 signaling cascade in NK and B cells at an early stage and in Tregs later during AIT.ConclusionOur results highlight the potential of CpG adjuvant in a novel formulation to be further exploited for inducing allergen‐specific tolerance in patients with cat allergy or other allergic diseases.
Near‐infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR‐PIT) on cholangiocarcinoma using a novel catheter device with light emitting diodes
Authors: Hirata Hajime , Kuwatani Masaki , Nakajima Kohei , Kodama Yuki , Yoshikawa Yasuo , Ogawa Mikako , Sakamoto Naoya 
Published: December 2020

AbstractNear‐infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR‐PIT) is a novel therapy for cancers that uses NIR light and antibody‐photosensitizer (IR700) conjugates. However, it is difficult to deliver NIR light into the bile duct for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) from the conventional extracorporeal apparatus. Thus, in this study, we developed a dedicated catheter with light emitting diodes (LEDs) that supersedes conventional external irradiation devices; we investigated the therapeutic effect of NIR‐PIT for CCA using the novel catheter. The new catheter was designed to be placed in the bile duct and a temperature sensor was attached to the tip of the catheter to avoid thermal burn. An anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody, Panitumumab‐IR700 conjugate or anti‐human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2) antibody, Trastuzumab‐IR700 conjugate, was used with EGFR‐ or HER2‐expressing cell lines, respectively. The in vitro efficacy of NIR‐PIT was confirmed in cultured cells; the capability of the new catheter for NIR‐PIT was then tested in a mouse tumor model. NIR‐PIT via the developed catheter treated CCA xenografts in mice. NIR‐PIT had an effect in Panitumumab‐IR700 conjugate‐ and Trastuzumab‐IR700 conjugate‐treated CCA cells that depended on the receptor expression level. Tumor growth was significantly suppressed in mice treated with NIR‐PIT using the novel catheter compared with controls (P < .01). NIR‐PIT was an effective treatment for EGFR‐ and HER2‐expressing CCA cells, and the novel catheter with mounted LEDs was useful for NIR‐PIT of CCA.