bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antibody‐based immunotherapy for treatment of immunoglobulin light‐chain amyloidosis
Authors: Parrondo Ricardo D. , Majeed Umair , Sher Taimur 
Published: April 2020

SummaryImmunoglobulin light‐chain (AL) amyloidosis is a clonal plasma cell disorder characterised by production and deposition of misfolded monoclonal light chains in vital organs with potential to cause irreversible organ damage. The treatment of AL amyloidosis has evolved along the lines of multiple myeloma (MM) owing to clonal plasma cells being at the root of both disease processes. Treatment with melphalan and autologous haematopoietic cell transplantation, as well as proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory agents, are the standard of care for AL amyloidosis. While these treatment modalities are highly effective against the neoplastic plasma cells, patients often relapse and those with advanced disease may be unable to tolerate these treatments due to side‐effects. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, antibody–drug conjugates and chimeric antigen receptor T cells have revolutionised the treatment armamentarium for MM. These novel immunotherapy agents are in the early phases of evaluation and clinical development for patients with AL amyloidosis. The present review aims to discuss the role of novel immunotherapies currently in development and their potential for use in the treatment of AL amyloidosis.
The effect of summer drought on the predictability of local extinctions in a butterfly metapopulation
Authors: van Bergen Erik , Dallas Tad , DiLeo Michelle F. , Kahilainen Aapo , Mattila Anniina L. K. , Luoto Miska , Saastamoinen Marjo 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThe ecological impacts of extreme climatic events on population dynamics and community composition are profound and predominantly negative. Using extensive data of an ecological model system, we tested whether predictions from ecological models remain robust when environmental conditions are outside the bounds of observation. We observed a 10‐fold demographic decline of the Glanville fritillary butterfly (Melitaea cinxia) metapopulation on the Åland islands, Finland in the summer of 2018 and used climatic and satellite data to demonstrate that this year was an anomaly with low climatic water balance values and low vegetation productivity indices across Åland. Population growth rates were strongly associated with spatiotemporal variation in climatic water balance. Covariates shown previously to affect the extinction probability of local populations in this metapopulation were less informative when populations were exposed to severe drought during the summer months. Our results highlight the unpredictable responses of natural populations to extreme climatic events.
Assessment of low plasma concentrations of apixaban in the periprocedural setting
Authors: Lessire Sarah , Dincq Anne‐Sophie , Siriez Romain , Pochet Lionel , Sennesael Anne‐Laure , Vornicu Ovidiu , Hardy Michael , Deceuninck Olivier , Douxfils Jonathan , Mullier François 
Published: April 2020

AbstractIntroductionEstimation of residual apixaban plasma concentrations may be requested in the management of emergencies. This study aims at assessing the performance of specific anti‐Xa assays calibrated with apixaban on real‐life samples with low apixaban plasma concentrations (<30 ng/mL) and on‐treatment ranges, with and without interference of low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH).MethodsThe performance of the STA®‐Liquid Anti‐Xa assay (STA® LAX) and the low and normal procedures of the Biophen®Direct Factor Xa Inhibitors (DiXaI) assay was tested on 134 blood samples, collected from patients on apixaban, wherefrom 74 patients received LMWH after apixaban cessation. The results were compared with the liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) measurements.ResultsThe Biophen®DiXaI, Biophen®DiXaI LOW, and STA®LAX showed very good correlation with LC‐MS/MS measurements in patients without LMWH administration (Spearman r .95, .99, and .98, respectively). Their limits of quantitation were defined at 48, 24, and 12 ng/mL, respectively. The Bland‐Altman test measured mean bias (SD) at 5.6 (13.1), −2.5 (5.0), and −0.8 (6.1) ng/ml, respectively. The Spearman r of the Biophen®DiXaI decreased to 0.64 in presence of low apixaban concentrations. The Spearman r of the Biophen®DiXaI LOW and STA®LAX decreased to 0.39 and 0.26, respectively, in presence of LMWH.ConclusionsThe accuracy of the low methodologies (Biophen®DiXaI LOW and STA®LAX) is slightly improved for low apixaban plasma concentrations, compared with the normal procedure of Biophen®DiXaI. The interference of LMWH on the low methodologies is measurable, however, less important than the previously reported interference of LMWH on rivaroxaban calibrated specific anti‐Xa assays.
Time as a barrier to evidence uptake—A qualitative exploration of the concept of time for clinical practice guideline uptake by physiotherapists
Authors: Stander Jessica , Grimmer Karen , Brink Yolandi 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackgroundLack of time has consistently been reported as a major barrier to effective research evidence uptake into clinical practice. There has been no research to our knowledge that explores time as a barrier within the transtheoretical model of stages of change (SoC), to better understand the processes of physiotherapists' uptake of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). This article explores the concept of lack of time as a barrier for CPG uptake for physiotherapists at different SoC.MethodsA six‐step process is presented to determine the best‐fit SoC for 31 physiotherapy interviewees. This process used an amalgamation of interview findings and socio‐demographic data, which was layered onto the SoC and previously identified time‐barriers to CPG uptake (few staff, high workload, access to CPGs, evidence‐based practice as priority in clinical practice, ‘time is money’ attitude and knowledge on the use of CPGs).ResultsThe analysis process highlighted the complexities of assigning individuals to a SoC. A model of time management for better CPG uptake is proposed which is a novel approach to assist evidence implementalists and clinicians alike to determine how to progress through the SoC and barriers to improve CPG uptake.ConclusionsTo the authors' knowledge, this is the first attempt at exploring the construct of (lack of) time for CPG uptake in relation to the physiotherapists' readiness to behaviour change. This study shows that ‘lack of time’ is a euphemism for quite different barriers, which map to different stages of readiness to embrace current best evidence into physiotherapy practice. By understanding what is meant by ‘lack of time’, it may indicate specific support required by physiotherapists at different stages of changing these behaviours.
Cranial shape evolution of extant and fossil crocodile newts and its relation to reproduction and ecology
Authors: Pogoda Peter , Zuber Marcus , Baumbach Tilo , Schoch Rainer R. , Kupfer Alexander 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThe diversity of the vertebrate cranial shape of phylogenetically related taxa allows conclusions on ecology and life history. As pleurodeline newts (the genera Echinotriton, Pleurodeles and Tylototriton) have polymorphic reproductive modes, they are highly suitable for following cranial shape evolution in relation to reproduction and environment. We investigated interspecific differences externally and differences in the cranial shape of pleurodeline newts via two‐dimensional geometric morphometrics. Our analyses also included the closely related but extinct genus Chelotriton to better follow the evolutionary history of cranial shape. Pleurodeles was morphologically distinct in relation to other phylogenetically basal salamanders. The subgenera within Tylototriton (Tylototriton and Yaotriton) were well separated in morphospace, whereas Echinotriton resembled the subgenus Yaotriton more than Tylototriton. Oviposition site choice correlated with phylogeny and morphology. Only the mating mode, with a random distribution along the phylogenetic tree, separated crocodile newts into two morphologically distinct groups. Extinct Chelotriton likely represented several species and were morphologically and ecologically more similar to Echinotriton and Yaotriton than to Tylototriton subgenera. Our data also provide the first comprehensive morphological support for the molecular phylogeny of pleurodeline newts.
Chronic performance of Riata 1580 and Endotak 0158 ICD leads: A single center 10‐year experience
Authors: Cobb Vanessa , Ezzat Vivienne , Higgins Fiona , Lambiase Pier , Lowe Martin , Segal Oliver , Chow Anthony 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe long‐term performance of the Riata family of leads has recently come under increasing scrutiny. We aimed to determine the long‐term performance of the Riata 1580 leads compared with Endotak 0158 leads.MethodsAll patients with Riata 1580 or Endotak 0158 leads implanted from 2003 to 2008 at the Heart Hospital, UCLH were analyzed. Significant electrical changes were as follows: threshold increase >1 V at a set pulse width between pacing checks, persistent R wave fall to <2 mV or reduction in R wave >50%, noise, pacing impedance change to <300 Ω or >1500 Ω, high voltage (HV) change to <20 Ω or >200 Ω, HV change ± 15 Ω, pacing impedance change >400 Ω over 12 months.Results333 Riata and 356 Endotak leads were implanted. Median follow‐up time + interquartile range were calculated, after exclusion of censored events including loss to follow‐up: Riata 3652 + 655 days, Endotak 3730 + 810 days. A total of 51 (15.9%) Riata leads and 21 (6.3%) Endotak leads were affected. A greater risk of failure was found for the Riata lead compared with the Endotak lead (P = .0001). An additional time‐dependent effect was found, with the Riata lead 1.9 times more likely to fail in the first 6 years following lead implantation and 5.3 times more likely to fail after 6 years.ConclusionsRiata leads have a higher risk of failure compared to Endotak leads over time. The importance of careful ongoing performance surveillance late in the leads’ lifetime is reflected in this 10‐year follow‐up study.
Perioperative apnea in infants with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: A systematic review
Authors: van den Bunder Fenne A. I. M. , van Wijk Lotte , van Woensel Job B. M. , Stevens Markus F. , van Heurn L. W. Ernest , Derikx Joep P. M. 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackgroundInfantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) leads to excessive vomiting and metabolic alkalosis, which may subsequently cause apnea. Although it is generally assumed that metabolic derangements should be corrected prior to surgery to prevent apnea, the exact incidence of perioperative apneas in infants with IHPS and the association with metabolic alkalosis are unknown. We performed this systematic review to assess the incidence of apnea in infants with IHPS and to verify the possible association between apnea and metabolic alkalosis.MethodsWe searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library to identify studies regarding infants with metabolic alkalosis, respiratory problems, and hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. We conducted a descriptive synthesis of the findings of the included studies.ResultsThirteen studies were included for analysis. Six studies described preoperative apnea, three studies described postoperative apnea, and four studies described both. All studies were of low quality or had other research questions. We found an incidence of 27% of preoperative and 0.2%‐16% of postoperative apnea, respectively. None of the studies examined the association between apnea and metabolic alkalosis in infants with IHPS.ConclusionsInfants with IHPS may have a risk to develop perioperative apnea. However, the incidence rates should be interpreted with caution because of the low quality and quantity of the studies. Therefore, further studies are required to determine the incidence of perioperative apnea in infants with IHPS. The precise underlying mechanism of apnea in these infants is still unknown, and the role of metabolic alkalosis should be further evaluated.
Arbuscular mycorrhiza influences carbon‐use efficiency and grain yield of wheat grown under pre‐ and post‐anthesis salinity stress
Authors: Eroğlu Ç. G. , Cabral C. , Ravnskov S. , Bak Topbjerg H. , Wollenweber B. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Soil salinity severely affects and constrains crop production worldwide. Salinity causes osmotic and ionic stress, inhibiting gas exchange and photosynthesis, ultimately impairing plant growth and development. Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) have been shown to maintain light and carbon use efficiency under stress, possibly providing a tool to improve salinity tolerance of the host plants. Thus, it was hypothesized that AM will contribute to improved growth and yield under stress conditions.

Wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L.) were grown with (AMF+) or without (AMF−) arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation. Plants were subjected to salinity stress (200 mm NaCl) either at pre‐ or post‐anthesis or at both stages. Growth and yield components, leaf chlorophyll content as well as gas exchange parameters and AMF colonization were analysed.

AM plants exhibited a higher rate of net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance and lower intrinsic water use efficiency. Furthermore, AM wheat plants subjected to salinity stress at both pre‐anthesis and post‐anthesis maintained higher grain yield than non‐AM salinity‐stressed plants.

These results suggest that AMF inoculation mitigates the negative effects of salinity stress by influencing carbon use efficiency and maintaining higher grain yield under stress.
Bidirectional associations between fitness and fatness in youth: A longitudinal study
Authors: Perez‐Bey Alejandro , Ruiz Jonatan R. , Ortega Francisco B. , Martinez‐Gomez David , Mota Jorge , Veiga Oscar L. , Lavie Carl J. , Castro‐Piñero José 
Published: April 2020

The aim was to examine the bidirectional association between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and fatness in a 2‐year longitudinal study conducted in young people. A total of 1082 children (512 females) and 727 adolescents (342 females) with complete data at baseline and follow‐up were included. CRF was determined by the 20‐m shuttle run test. Height and weight were measured, and body mass index and fat mass index (kg/m2) were calculated. Triceps and subscapular skinfolds were assessed to compute body fat percentage. Bidirectionality was tested by including CRF and each fatness index as exposures and outcomes, alternatively, in different regression models. CRF was prospectively associated with fatness index levels (ß from −0.186 to −0.528; P < .001), remaining significant in children after adjusting for baseline fatness indices. Fatness indices were prospectively associated with CRF (ß from −0.207 to −0.479; P < .001), with no substantial changes observed in children and female adolescents when baseline CRF was considered. Changes in CRF were prospectively associated with several fatness indices, regardless of body fatness at baseline (ß from −0.062 to −0.220; P < .05). Body fatness changes were associated with future CRF levels, independently of baseline CRF, especially in children of both sexes and male adolescents (ß from −0.079 to −0.260; P < .05). Overall, a bidirectional association was observed between CRF and fatness in children and adolescents. The attainment of optimal CRF and fatness levels in early ages should be promoted since it could result in favorable future fatness and CRF levels, respectively, which are two key determinants of health status.
Current standards and the latest developments in the treatment of thalassaemia
Authors: Teawtrakul Nattiya 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThalassaemia syndrome is an autosomal recessive inherited disease caused by impaired productions of the globin chains leading to chronic anaemia. In the last few decades, red blood cell transfusion, iron chelation therapy and allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation are three main treatment modalities in this disease. Advances in understanding the underlying basis of the thalassaemia disease have introduced several new innovative therapeutic approaches including modulating of erythropoiesis, modulating of iron metabolism and gene therapy. Preclinical studies of several novel therapeutic agents showed promising results. Currently, there are multiple ongoing clinical studies of these novel therapies in patients with thalassaemia. This review aims to summarize the key points of current standard treatment and the latest developments in the treatment of thalassaemia.
Estimation of Friction and States for Robust Control of Position Servo
Authors: Kurode Shailaja , Tamhane Bhagyashri 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Friction is an inherent nonlinearity in electromechanical systems. It adversely affects the system performance. The key challenge is to get its accurate information as it is not measurable. This paper proposes a two-observer concept for friction and state estimation. Novelty of proposal includes finite time convergent estimations of the friction component and the system states. These estimations are used to design a robust control for accurate position tracking in servosystem. It is shown that accurate friction and state estimations are obtained, and control efforts are reduced while achieving precise performance. Tracking performance is improved using proposed control. The outcome of the proposed methodology is validated through computer simulations and experimentations.
Effective diabetes complication management is a step toward a carbon-efficient planet: an economic modeling study
Authors: Fordham Ric , Dhatariya Ketan , Stancliffe Rachel , Lloyd Adam , Chatterjee Mou , Mathew Mevin , Taneja Loveleen , Gains Mike , Haagen Panton Ulrik 
Published: April 2020

BackgroundThe management of diabetes-related complications accounts for a large share of total carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions. We assessed whether improving diabetes control in people with type 2 diabetes reduces CO2e emissions, compared with those with unchanging glycemic control.MethodsUsing the IQVIA Core Diabetes Model, we estimated the impact of maintaining glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) at 7% (53 mmol/mol) or reducing it by 1% (11 mmol/mol) on total CO2e/patient and CO2e/life-year (LY). Two different cohorts were investigated: those on first-line medical therapy (cohort 1) and those on third-line therapy (cohort 2). CO2e was estimated using cost inputs converted to carbon inputs using the UK National Health Service’s carbon intensity factor. The model was run over a 50-year time horizon, discounting total costs and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) up to 5% and CO2e at 0%.ResultsMaintaining HbA1cat 7% (53 mmol/mol) reduced total CO2e/patient by 18% (1546 kgCO2e/patient) vs 13% (937 kgCO2e/patient) in cohorts 1 and 2, respectively, and led to a reduction in CO2e/LY gain of 15%–20%. Reducing HbA1cby 1% (11 mmol/mol) caused a 12% (cohort 1) and 9% (cohort 2) reduction in CO2e/patient with a CO2e/LY gain reduction of 11%–14%.ConclusionsWhen comparing people with untreated diabetes, maintaining glycemic control at 7% (53 mmol/mol) on a single agent or improving HbA1cby 1% (11 mmol/mol) by the addition of more glucose-lowering treatment was associated with a reduction in carbon emissions.
Is development aid to strengthen health systems during protracted conflict a useful investment? The case of South Sudan, 2011–2015
Authors: Valadez Joseph James , Berendes Sima , Odhiambo Jackline , Vargas William , Devkota Baburam , Lako Richard , Jeffery Caroline 
Published: April 2020

IntroductionIs achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 (building peaceful societies) a precondition for achieving SDG 3 (health and well-being in all societies, including conflict-affected countries)? Do health system investments in conflict-affected countries waste resources or benefit the public’s health? To answer these questions, we examine the maternal, newborn, child and reproductive health (MNCRH) service provision during protracted conflicts and economic shocks in the Republic of South Sudan between 2011 (at independence) and 2015.MethodsWe conducted two national cross-sectional probability surveys in 10 states (2011) and nine states (2015). Trained state-level health workers collected data from households randomly selected using probability proportional to size sampling of villages in each county. County data were weighted by their population sizes to measure state and national MNCRH services coverage. A two-sample, two-sided Z-test of proportions tested for changes in national health service coverage between 2011 (n=11 800) and 2015 (n=10 792).ResultsTwenty-two of 27 national indicator estimates (81.5%) of MNCRH service coverage improved significantly. Examples: malaria prophylaxis in pregnancy increased by 8.6% (p<0.001) to 33.1% (397/1199 mothers, 95% CI ±2.9%), institutional deliveries by 10.5% (p<0.001) to 20% (230/1199 mothers, ±2.6%) and measles vaccination coverage in children aged 12–23 months by 11.2% (p<0.001) to 49.7% (529/1064 children, ±2.3%). The largest increase (17.7%, p<0.001) occurred for mothers treating diarrhoea in children aged 0–59 months with oral rehydration salts to 51.4% (635/1235 children, ±2.9%). Antenatal and postnatal care, and contraceptive prevalence did not change significantly. Child vitamin A supplementation decreased. Despite significant increases, coverage remained low (median of all indicators = 31.3%, SD = 19.7) . Coverage varied considerably by state (mean SD for all indicators and states=11.1%).ConclusionHealth system strengthening is not a uniform process and not necessarily deterred by conflict. Despite the conflict, health system investments were not wasted; health service coverage increased.
Influence of culture, religion and experience on the decision of Pakistani women in Lothian, Scotland to use postnatal contraception: a qualitative study
Authors: Gallimore Annette , Irshad Tasneem , Cooper Michelle , Cameron Sharon 
Published: April 2020

IntroductionEvidence suggests that Pakistani women may experience difficulty accessing postnatal contraceptive (PNC) services. The study aimed to identify experience and decision-making around PNC provision for Pakistani women in Lothian, and to explore the views and experience of maternity staff who provide PNC counselling.MethodsQualitative research including focus groups and 1:1 semi-structured interviews with women and staff. Participants were first- and second-generation Pakistani women with a child/children aged up to 5 years, or pregnant; community and hospital midwives, obstetric doctors who counsel or provide PNC. Data were coded and categorised using QSR NVIVO10. Inductive thematic analysis was carried out.ResultsWomen were receptive to discussion of contraception, including antenatally, and welcomed translated information. Some said the decision on PNC was theirs or made jointly with their husband; however, they acknowledged that in some marriages the husband will take the decision. Women stated they may face family expectation to have a baby early in marriage. Language was identified as a challenge by maternity staff, who utilised translation services to ensure women received the information they needed on contraception.ConclusionsPakistani women value antenatal discussion about PNC. Maternity staff have an important role in providing quality information on contraception and should be supported with translated resources in a range of formats. Most importantly, staff should adopt a tailored approach to identify the individual woman’s needs and preferences.