bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Limited Evidence for Selection at the FADS Locus in Native American Populations
Authors: Mathieson Iain 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The FADS locus contains the genes FADS1 and FADS2 that encode enzymes involved in the synthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. This locus appears to have been a repeated target of selection in human evolution, likely because dietary input of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids varied over time depending on environment and subsistence strategy. Several recent studies have identified selection at the FADS locus in Native American populations, interpreted as evidence for adaptation during or subsequent to the passage through Beringia. Here, we show that these signals are confounded by independent selection—postdating the split from Native Americans—in the European and, possibly, the East Asian populations used in the population branch statistic test. This is supported by direct evidence from ancient DNA that one of the putatively selected haplotypes was already common in Northern Eurasia at the time of the separation of Native American ancestors. An explanation for the present-day distribution of the haplotype that is more consistent with the data is that Native Americans retain the ancestral state of Paleolithic Eurasians. Another haplotype at the locus may reflect a secondary selection signal, although its functional impact is unknown.
Assessing the diet of octopuses: traditional techniques and the stable isotopes approach
Authors: de Souza Dantas Renato Junqueira , Leite Tatiana Silva , de Albuquerque Cristiano Queiroz 
Published: March 2020

ABSTRACTMost studies of the feeding habits of octopuses have focused on the use of a single technique, often selected on the basis of its familiarity or minimal impact on study animals. Although over time new methods have been developed for dietary assessment, no comparative analysis has ever been done. Using Octopus insularis as a model, we examined the results of three methods of diet analysis to understand how these techniques can influence study conclusions. Octopus diets were assessed through the analysis of (1) fresh prey remains deposited in midden piles, (2) digestive contents from the octopus crop and stomach, and (3) stable isotope data on the octopus and its potential food sources. The research was conducted at Rocas Atoll, a pristine oceanic reef off the northeastern coast of Brazil, with data from a coastal environment with substantial human impact (i.e. Rio do Fogo, northeastern Brazil) being evaluated as well. Overall, the three methods differed in the type of data they produced and the timescale represented, reflecting their own biases, the biology and behaviour of the octopus, and even the local oceanographic and other environmental conditions. We therefore provide a conceptual diagram to help researchers to consider the inherent aspects of each method when planning and performing studies of octopus diet, and also when interpreting study results.
G-quadruplex ligands mediate downregulation of DUX4 expression
Authors: Ciszewski Lukasz , Lu-Nguyen Ngoc , Slater Alex , Brennan Andrew , Williams Huw E L , Dickson George , Searle Mark S , Popplewell Linda 
Published: March 2020

AbstractAbnormal DUX4 expression in skeletal muscles plays a key role in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) pathogenesis, although the molecular mechanisms regulating DUX4 expression are not fully defined. Using bioinformatic analysis of the genomic DUX4 locus, we have identified a number of putative G-quadruplexes (GQs) forming sequences. Their presence was confirmed in synthetic oligonucleotiode sequences derived from the enhancer, promoter and transcript of DUX4 through circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. We further examined the binding affinity of a naturally occurring GQ stabilizing compound, berberine, to these non-canonical genetic structures using UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Subsequent in vitro study in FSHD patient myoblasts indicated that berberine treatment reduced DUX4 expression and also expression of genes normally switched on by DUX4. Further investigation in a mouse model overexpressing exogenous DUX4 confirmed the therapeutic effects of berberine in downregulating DUX4 protein expression, inhibiting muscle fibrosis, and consequently rescuing muscle function. Our data demonstrate for the first time that GQs are present in the DUX4 locus and that the GQ interactive ligand reduces DUX4 expression suggesting potential role of GQs in FSHD pathogenesis. Our work provides the basis of a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of FSHD.
Impact of longer term phosphorus control on cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis patients using an area under the curve approach: results from the DOPPS
Authors: Lopes Marcelo Barreto , Karaboyas Angelo , Bieber Brian , Pisoni Ronald L , Walpen Sebastian , Fukagawa Masafumi , Christensson Anders , Evenepoel Pieter , Pegoraro Marisa , Robinson Bruce M , Pecoits-Filho Roberto 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Background
Serial assessment of phosphorus is currently recommended by the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines, but its additional value versus a single measurement is uncertain.

Methods
We studied data from 17 414 HD patients in the Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study, a prospective cohort study, and calculated the area under the curve (AUC) by multiplying the time spent with serum phosphorus &gt;4.5 mg/dL over a 6-month run-in period by the extent to which this threshold was exceeded. We estimated the association between the monthly average AUC and cardiovascular (CV) mortality using Cox regression. We formally assessed whether AUC was a better predictor of CV mortality than other measures of phosphorus control according to the Akaike information criterion.

Results
Compared with the reference group of AUC = 0, the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of CV mortality was 1.12 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.90–1.40] for AUC &gt; 0–0.5, 1.26 (95% CI 0.99–1.62) for AUC &gt; 0.5–1, 1.44 (95% CI 1.11–1.86) for AUC &gt; 1–2 and 2.03 (95% CI 1.53–2.69) for AUC &gt; 2. The AUC was predictive of CV mortality within strata of the most recent phosphorus level and had a better model fit than other serial measures of phosphorus control (mean phosphorus, months out of target).

Conclusions
We conclude that worse phosphorus control over a 6-month period was strongly associated with CV mortality. The more phosphorus values do not exceed 4.5 mg/dL the better is survival. Phosphorus AUC is a better predictor of CV death than the single most recent phosphorus level, supporting with real-world data KDIGO’s recommendation of serial assessment of phosphorus to guide clinical decisions.
Association of tubular solute clearances with the glomerular filtration rate and complications of chronic kidney disease: the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort study
Authors: Chen Yan , Zelnick Leila R , Wang Ke , Katz Ronit , Hoofnagle Andrew N , Becker Jessica O , Hsu Chi-Yuan , Go Alan S , Feldman Harold I , Mehta Rupal C , Lash James P , Waikar Sushrut S , Hamm L , Chen Jing , Shafi Tariq , Kestenbaum Bryan R ,   the CRIC Study Investigators
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Background
The secretion of organic solutes by the proximal tubules is an essential intrinsic kidney function. The degree to which secretory solute clearance corresponds with the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and potential metabolic implications of net secretory clearance are largely unknown.

Methods
We evaluated 1240 participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) from the multicenter Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) Study. We used targeted mass-spectrometry to quantify candidate secretory solutes in paired 24-h urine and plasma samples. CRIC study personnel measured GFR using 125I-iothalamate clearance (iGFR). We used correlation and linear regression to determine cross-sectional associations of secretory clearances with iGFR and common metabolic complications of CKD.

Results
Correlations between iGFR and secretory solute clearances ranged from ρ  = +0.30 for hippurate to ρ = +0.58 for kynurenic acid. Lower net clearances of most secretory solutes were associated with higher serum concentrations of parathyroid hormone (PTH), triglycerides and uric acid. Each 50% lower kynurenic acid clearance was associated with a 21% higher serum PTH concentration [95% confidence interval (CI) 15–26%] and a 10% higher serum triglyceride concentration (95% CI 5–16%) after adjustment for iGFR, albuminuria and other potential confounders. Secretory solute clearances were not associated with statistically or clinically meaningful differences in serum calcium, phosphate, hemoglobin or bicarbonate concentrations.

Conclusions
Tubular secretory clearances are modestly correlated with measured GFR among adult patients with CKD. Lower net secretory clearances are associated with selected metabolic complications independent of GFR and albuminuria, suggesting potential clinical and biological relevance.
Developing logic models to inform public health policy outcome evaluation: an example from tobacco control
Authors: Langley Tessa , Gillespie Duncan , Lewis Sarah , Eminson Katie , Brennan Alan , Docherty Graeme , Young Ben 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Background
The evaluation of large-scale public health policy interventions often relies on observational designs where attributing causality is challenging. Logic models—visual representations of an intervention’s anticipated causal pathway—facilitate the analysis of the most relevant outcomes. We aimed to develop a set of logic models that could be widely used in tobacco policy evaluation.

Methods
We developed an overarching logic model that reflected the broad categories of outcomes that would be expected following the implementation of tobacco control policies. We subsequently reviewed policy documents to identify the outcomes expected to result from the implementation of each policy and conducted a literature review of existing evaluations to identify further outcomes. The models were revised according to feedbacks from a range of stakeholders.

Results
The final models represented expected causal pathways for each policy. The models included short-term outcomes (such as policy awareness, compliance and social cognitive outcomes), intermediate outcomes (such as changes in smoking behaviour) and long-term outcomes (such as mortality, morbidity and health service usage).

Conclusions
The use of logic models enables transparent and theory-based planning of evaluation analyses and should be encouraged in the evaluation of tobacco control policy, as well as other areas of public health.
TERTIARY X-RADIATION—A PROBLEM FOR STAFF PROTECTION?
Authors: Eder H , Seidenbusch M , Oechler L S 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The influence of tertiary x-radiation on the radiological staff is widely unknown. Tertiary radiation is caused as the scattered radiation of the patient impacts the walls, floor, ceiling and surrounding air. The question that arises is does tertiary x-radiation provide a relevant contribution to the staff doses. The impact of tertiary radiation was investigated by means of measurements of the personal dose equivalent Hp(10) on an anthropomorphic Alderson Rando male phantom and also on operators/assistants staying in clinical practice. Further, the protective effect of lead foils, especially under tertiary radiation was also investigated. Correlations could be derived for clinical angiographic/interventional procedures between dose area products (DAPs) and dose length products (DLPs) vs. dorsal doses of staff persons. Generally, the staff doses that are a result of tertiary radiation depend on the x-ray energy and range from 0.15 to 0.55% of the scattered radiation impact caused by irradiation of the patient. Hence, a back panel with 0.125-mm lead equivalent is sufficient to protect the staff from tertiary radiation created within the room environment.
White Supervisor and Subordinate Beliefs about Black/White Inequality: Implications for Understanding and Reducing Workplace Racial Disparities
Authors: Smith Ryan A , Hunt Matthew O 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThis study examines the racial stratification beliefs of white Americans who have decision-making power at work (managers and supervisors) and of those (subordinates) who lack such power. We focus on whether these groups vary in overall levels of support for, and in determinants of, beliefs about racial inequality. Pooled cross-sectional analyses of data from the 1977 to 2014 General Social Surveys (GSS) reveal that, among both white supervisors and subordinates, support is greatest for a motivation-based explanation of black disadvantage, followed by (in order) explanations focusing on blacks’ lesser educational chances, discrimination against blacks, and finally, blacks’ supposed lesser ability. In line with Group Position Theory, our multivariate analyses reveal few differences across the supervisory divide in levels of support for, or in the determinants of, whites’ beliefs about black disadvantage. Differences that do exist align with alternative perspectives including Social Dominance Theory, a Group Self-Interest Model, and Intergroup Contact Theory. We conclude by discussing the theoretical and methodological implications of our findings for future research pertaining to what does and does not work to ameliorate racial inequality in the workplace.
Parent, Child, and Adoption Characteristics Associated with Post-Adoption Support Needs
Authors: Lee Bethany R , Wyman Battalen Adeline , Brodzinsky David M , Goldberg Abbie E 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to (a) identify whether there are meaningful subgroups of families with distinct post-adoption needs and (b) determine which parent, youth, and adoption characteristics are associated with these collections of needs. Using data from the Modern Adoptive Families study, authors conducted a three-step latent class analysis with a sample of 1,414 families who rated the importance of 16 areas of parent education and support, based on their current level of need. A five-class solution best fit the data. Descriptively, the classes reflect families with low needs, families with needs related to adoption adjustment, families with adoption-specific needs, families wanting support specific to their youths’ special needs, and families with needs that are both adoption-specific and related to youth special needs. Results from the multinomial logistic regression model found class membership differences based on parent, youth, and adoption characteristics. These classes may help adoption professionals to recognize the types of post-adoption services different families may need and to develop targeted interventions for specific types of families.
Toxicity testing is evolving!
Authors: Fischer Ida , Milton Catherine , Wallace Heather 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The efficient management of the continuously increasing number of chemical substances used in today’s society is assuming greater importance than ever before. Toxicity testing plays a key role in the regulatory decisions of agencies and governments that aim to protect the public and the environment from the potentially harmful or adverse effects of these multitudinous chemicals. Therefore, there is a critical need for reliable toxicity-testing methods to identify, assess and interpret the hazardous properties of any substance. Traditionally, toxicity-testing approaches have been based on studies in experimental animals. However, in the last 20 years, there has been increasing concern regarding the sustainability of these methodologies. This has created a real need for the development of new approach methodologies (NAMs) that satisfy the regulatory requirements and are acceptable and affordable to society. Numerous initiatives have been launched worldwide in attempts to address this critical need. However, although the science to support this is now available, the legislation and the pace of NAMs acceptance is lagging behind. This review will consider some of the various initiatives in Europe to identify NAMs to replace or refine the current toxicity-testing methods for pharmaceuticals. This paper also presents a novel systematic approach to support the desired toxicity-testing methodologies that the 21st century deserves.
Resistance trends among Enterobacterales from bacteraemias in the UK and Ireland, 2007 - 2017
Authors: Aliabadi Shirin , Horner Carolyne , Mushtaq Shazad , Livermore David 
Published: March 2020

Background
The British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (BSAC) Bacteraemia Resistance Surveillance Programme monitors the antimicrobial susceptibility of organisms causing bacteraemias in the UK and Ireland. We review data for Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Proteeae, and Serratia collected between 2007-2017.

Methods
Consecutive isolates causing clinically significant bacteraemia were tested; participating laboratories (n=24-40) collected 7-20 isolates/species per year. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined centrally by BSAC agar dilution.

Results
Rates of resistance in the UK and Ireland remained largely stable over the 11-year period, during which 14,206 isolates were tested [(E. coli, n=5364; Klebsiella, n=3016; Proteeae, n=2423; Enterobacter, n=1819, and Serratia, n=1584)]. A decrease in resistance to piperacillin/tazobactam was noted among all species, except K. aerogenes. A decrease in resistance to ciprofloxacin was seen among E. coli and Enterobacter. Average rates of resistance to ceftolozane/tazobactam ranged from 0.2% (E. coli)to 9.2%(E. cloacae), whereas rates of resistance to ceftobiprole were higher [10% (E. coli) and 20% (E. cloacae)]. Rates of colistin resistance were low among E. coli (0.5%), and Klebsiella (1.2%); however, rates were higher, and increasing among Enterobacter (6.1% in 2011 to 13.4% in 2017). Rates of ESBL production were stable over time; higher among E. coli (9.6%), Enterobacter (10.4%), and Klebsiella (14.7%), compared with <1% among Proteeae and Serratia. Carbapenemase producers remained rare (n=16 over 11 years, without trend).

Conclusion
The largely unchanging or reducing resistance rates among Enterobacterales causing bacteraemia are reassuring and may reflect interventions to reduce inappropriate use of antimicrobials implemented across the countries surveyed.
A decade on from the publication of the British HIV Association's National HIV Testing Guidelines: are opportunities to increase the uptake of HIV testing still being missed?
Authors: Bulteel Naomi , Bularga Anda , Baker Kerri , Sloan Derek , Banerjee Indranil 
Published: March 2020

Background:
Guidelines recommend HIV testing in indicator conditions in which the prevalence of undiagnosed HIV exceeds 0.1%. We assessed adherence to national recommendations on HIV testing within the acute medical unit in NHS Fife. Secondly, we performed a look-back exercise to identify missed opportunities for HIV diagnosis in individuals who presented at a late stage of infection.

Methods:
Data were collected on admissions over a 24-hour-period during four consecutive weeks in 2018. Case records were reviewed and diagnoses were screened against a list of indicators. Additionally, data were obtained from HPS on late HIV diagnoses within NHS Fife from 2013-2018. Records were interrogated for presentations to healthcare services within the 5 years prior to HIV diagnosis.

Results:
In total, 226 patients were admitted during the study period. All patients were white, with median age 68yrs. 101 indicator conditions were identified, relating to 83 patients (36.7%). Bacterial pneumonia was the most frequently identified indicator (n=40). Only 3 patients were offered HIV testing (3.6%).
From 2013-2018, 23 patients were diagnosed with HIV at late stage. The median age at diagnosis was 41yrs and the median CD4 count was 161 cells/mm3. Fifteen patients (65.2%) had presented to hospital in the 5 years preceding diagnosis with an indicator. The most frequently missed indicator was chronic diarrhoea (n=6). Three patients (13%) have died since diagnosis.
Conclusions:
* Opportunities to increase uptake of HIV testing among people who may have undiagnosed HIV are being missed
* Further educational initiatives and review of local HIV testing protocols are indicated
To screen or not to screen?
Authors: Lowe Abigail , Sarian Arni , Russell Katherine , Gibani Malick , Moore Luke , Mughal Nabeela , Donaldson Hugo 
Published: March 2020

Introduction
Screening for carbapenem resistant organisms (CROs) enables early isolation and prevention of transmission in inpatient healthcare settings. In 2013, the UK Department of Health detailed a national approach to screening for CROs. Implementation of this policy has been variable and the growing numbers of patients who meet screening criteria likely exceeds capacity for isolation.

Method
We undertook a point prevalence study across two London hospitals to ascertain the frequency of per-policy screening. We assessed the screening of acutely admitted patients in March 2019 at hospital 1 and July 2019 at Hospital 2. We then modelled variations in screening approaches to optimise risk assessments in the context of isolation room availability.

Results
A total of 199 patients (112 patients at hospital 1 and 87 patients at hospital 2) were included in the analysis. Overall, 27/112 (24%) and 32/87 (37%) met the criteria for CRO screening according to current guidelines. Of these, 0/27 (0%) of patients at hospital 1 and 5/32 (16%) at hospital 2 had a CRO screen performed [p=0.06]. Across both hospitals, the principal risk factors for CRO carriage included: admission to a UK hospital in a high risk area (63/199;32%); admission to a non-UK hospital (3/199/;2%) and previous CRO carriage (1/199;0.5%) albeit with some variation between sites

Conclusion
Six years after the roll out of the national toolkit, CRO screening is still variable. Reworking of the risk stratification is needed, and we suggest technological approaches with electronic healthcare records may enable more robust screening strategies.
Facial Nerve Palsy – Do people think about Lyme Disease?
Authors: Fourie Benjamin , Costa Elisa , McGoldrick Claire 
Published: March 2020

Background
Borrelia burgdorferi, the micro-organism responsible for Lyme borreliosis, is known to be endemic in Scotland, with 4.2% sero-prevalence in Scottish blood donors. Facial nerve palsy can be a manifestation of the illness. The aim was to establish how often Lyme is considered as a potential cause in one Scottish health board.
Methods
Patients, aged four and above, presenting to secondary care with facial nerve palsy from 2016-2018 were identified using ICD-10 codes. A retrospective analysis of case notes and laboratory records was undertaken to establish whether a cause for nerve palsy had been found, whether a potential tick exposure history was taken, and if Lyme testing had been done. Microsoft Excel was used for analysis.

Results
173 patients with confirmed facial nerve palsy were identified. Consideration of Lyme disease was made in 9.2% (16/173). Of these, 43.8% (7/16), were asked about possible insect bites (four of whom were asked specifically about tick bites). 43.8% (7/16) were tested based on clinical presentation. 6.3% (1/16) had “no Lyme risks” documented and another 6.3% (1/16) had an occupational risk. Of the sixteen, 50% (8/16) had Lyme serology undertaken, although 2/8 had a confirmed alternative cause.

Conclusion
Possibility of Lyme disease is not commonly considered when individuals present with facial nerve palsy. This is despite endemnicity in Scotland, and opportunities for tick exposure being common, with outdoor activities and countryside trips. Educational initiatives are therefore required.