bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consequences of Cryopreservation in Diverse Natural Isolates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wing Kieslana M , Phillips Mark A , Baker Andrew R , Burke Molly K
Published: June 2020

Experimental evolution allows the observation of change over time as laboratory populations evolve in response to novel, controlled environments. Microbial evolution experiments take advantage of cryopreservation to archive experimental populations in glycerol media, creating a frozen, living “fossil” record. Prior research with Escherichia coli has shown that cryopreservation conditions can affect cell viability and that allele frequencies across the genome can change in response to a freeze–thaw event. We expand on these observations by characterizing fitness and genomic consequences of multiple freeze−thaw cycles in diploid yeast populations. Our study system is a highly recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae population (SGRP-4X) that harbors standing genetic variation that cryopreservation may threaten. We also investigate the four parental isogenic strains crossed to create the SGRP-4X. We measure cell viability over five consecutive freeze−thaw cycles; whereas we find that viability increases over time in the evolved recombinant populations, we observe no such viability improvements in the parental strains. We also collect genome-wide sequence data from experimental populations initially, after one freeze−thaw, and after five freeze−thaw cycles. In the recombinant evolved populations, we find a region of significant allele frequency change on chromosome 15 containing the ALR1 gene. In the parental strains, we find little evidence for new mutations. We conclude that cryopreserving yeast populations with standing genetic variation may have both phenotypic and genomic consequences, though the same cryopreservation practices may have only small impacts on populations with little or no initial variation.
Demographic Effects on Longitudinal Semantic Processing, Working Memory, and Cognitive Speed
Authors: Vonk Jet M J , Higby Eve , Nikolaev Alexandre , Cahana-Amitay Dalia , Spiro Avron , Albert Martin L , Obler Loraine K
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To better understand and compare effects of aging and education across domains of language and cognition, we investigated whether (a) these domains show different associations with age and education, (b) these domains show similar patterns of age-related change over time, and (c) education moderates the rate of decline in these domains.

Method

We analyzed data from 306 older adults aged 55–85 at baseline of whom 116 returned for follow-up 4–8 years later. An exploratory factor analysis identified domains of language and cognition across a range of tasks. A confirmatory factor analysis analyzed cross-sectional associations of age and education with these domains. Subsequently, mixed linear models analyzed longitudinal change as a function of age and moderation by education.

Results

We identified 2 language domains, that is, semantic control and semantic memory efficiency, and 2 cognitive domains, that is, working memory and cognitive speed. Older age negatively affected all domains except semantic memory efficiency, and higher education positively affected all domains except cognitive speed at baseline. In language domains, a steeper age-related decline was observed after age 73–74 compared to younger ages, while cognition declined linearly with age. Greater educational attainment did not protect the rate of decline over time in any domain.

Discussion

Separate domains show varying effects of age and education at baseline, language versus cognitive domains show dissimilar patterns of age-related change over time, and education does not moderate the rate of decline in these domains. These findings broaden our understanding of age effects on cognitive and language abilities by placing observed age differences in context.
AOAC-OMA/MicroVal Harmonized Validation of Peel PlateTM EB (Enterobacteriaceae Bacteria), First Action 2018.05
Authors: Salter Robert S , Durbin Gregory W , Martinez Denisse , Bird Patrick , Bastin Benjamin , Crowley Erin
Published: June 2020

Background

Peel PlateTM  Enterobacteriaceae Bacteria (EB) is dried selective media on a 47 mm plastic plate that produces enzyme substrate colored colonies on rehydration and incubation for 24 h and up to 48 h at 37 ± 1°C.

Purpose

The method validation compared quantification of EB to reference methods ISO 21528:2017 Parts 1 and 2.

Methods

Matrixes compared were whole milk, skim powdered milk, vanilla ice cream, butter, infant formulas (soy- and dairy-based), infant cereals ± probiotic, environmental sponge swab of stainless steel surface, and poultry carcass rinse with two different peptone buffers.

Results

In inclusivity and exclusivity studies, the method detected 54 of 54 EB strains and did not detect 30 of 30 non-EB strains. In matrix studies, the claimed foods were tested at three contamination levels using paired analysis between the reference and Peel Plate EB methods. Colony-forming units per gram or mL [CFU/g (mL)] were log10 transformed for statistical analysis. The candidate method and reference method were shown to be equivalent by the performance requirement of all 95% confidence intervals on mean difference falling between −0.5 and +0.5 log10 CFU/g (mL). An international collaborative study with dried infant formula spiked with Cronobacter sakazakii at log10 CFU/g (mL) 1.05, 2.31, and 3.21 levels, produced method differences −0.16, 0.15, and 0.18 log10 CFU/g (mL) with repeatabilities (r) = 0.33, 0.20, and 0.12 log10 CFU/g (mL) and reproducibilities (R) = 0.45, 0.26, and 0.18 log10 CFU/g (mL).

Conclusions

Based on these evaluations, the candidate method is considered equivalent to the reference methods at both the 24 h and 48 h incubation periods at 37 ± 1°C.

Highlights

Ready to use Enterobacteriaceae method equivalent to ISO-21528:2017 Parts 1 and 2; EB test colored colonies at 37°C for 24 h are equivalent at 48 h incubation; Singlet determined CFU/mL are statistically the same as duplicate average results; EB test validated for infant formula and dairy products including with probiotics; EB test for environmental surfaces and poultry carcass rinses using peptone buffers.
Flualprazolam Blood Concentrations in 197 Forensic Investigation Cases
Authors: Papsun Donna M , Krotulski Alex J , Homan Joseph , Temporal Keith D H , Logan Barry K
Published: June 2020

Flualprazolam is a designer benzodiazepine and novel psychoactive substance that is increasing in prevalence and appearing in forensic investigations. Flualprazolam was quantitatively confirmed in 197 blood samples from medicolegal death investigations and human performance cases reported between August 2019 and February 2020. Drug screening was performed using liquid chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry and quantitative confirmation was performed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. A three-point standard addition protocol was implemented for quantitation in the absence of an available traditionally validated assay. In postmortem cases with quantitative results (n = 167), the mean (±standard deviation [SD]) flualprazolam concentration was 20 (±63) ng/mL, the median concentration was 8.2 ng/mL and the range of concentrations was 2.0–620 ng/mL. Four additional postmortem cases were reported positive (<2.0 ng/mL). In drug impaired driving cases (n = 22), the mean (±SD) flualprazolam concentration was 22 (±18) ng/mL, the median concentration was 14 ng/mL and the range of concentrations was 4.4 to 68 ng/mL. The four remaining cases were of unknown circumstances. This report details the most extensive dataset of flualprazolam intoxication cases reported to date. There was significant overlap in concentrations of flualprazolam between postmortem and DUID cases. Flualprazolam was commonly (83% of the time) found in combination with opioids (e.g. fentanyl). Toxicologists should consider quantitative flualprazolam results in the context of case history, observations, and/or other toxicological findings. Addition of flualprazolam to the scope of drug testing should be considered by all laboratories.
The Other Side of Play: Fear and Frustration in the Design, Consumption and Use of Construction Sets
Authors: Yagou Artemis
Published: June 2020

Play is typically considered to be a highly pleasurable and stress-free activity; nevertheless, there is a strong but neglected connection between toy design and the fear of a technological future. The production and promotion of technology-inspired toys for middle-class children in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries reflected both the great fascination of adults with new technology and their anxiety about its impact. Different types of technical toys were meant not only as playthings, but also as tools for coming to terms with a changing social and technological milieu. For children themselves, playing with construction sets could be a source not only of pleasure, but also of frustration. This essay discusses a range of negative emotions related to construction toys and offers insights into this hitherto under-researched aspect of play. We argue that toys of a technical nature offered a small-scale and safe environment for testing out practices and mentalities related to the tensions and contradictions of modernity.
Significance of para-aortic lymph node evaluation in patients with FIGO IIIC1 cervical cancer
Authors: Cho Won Kyung , Kim Yeon Joo , Kim Hakyoung , Kim Young Seok , Park Won
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study investigated the effect of para-aortic lymph node sampling or dissection in recently revised International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics IIIC1p cervical cancer treated with primary surgery and adjuvant radiation therapy with concurrent chemotherapy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 343 patients with early-stage cervical cancer and pathologically proven pelvic lymph node metastasis following curative surgery from 2001 to 2014. No patient had imaging evidence of para-aortic lymph node involvement, and all patients received adjuvant concurrent chemotherapy with or without concurrent chemotherapy. We investigated the significance of para-aortic lymph node sampling or dissection on disease-free survival and overall survival.

Results

After median follow-up of 58.3 months, 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival in all patients were 69.9 and 80.2%, respectively. Disease-free survival and overall survival did not differ between the para-aortic lymph node dissection group and the No para-aortic lymph node dissection group (P = 0.700 and P = 0.605). However, patients with para-aortic lymph node-positive disease had poorer disease-free survival and overall survival compared with those with para-aortic lymph node-negative disease (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study found no survival benefit of para-aortic lymph node evaluation among patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics IIIC1p cervical cancer who were clinically para-aortic lymph node-negative. Although para-aortic lymph node metastasis is a poor prognosticator, the benefit of para-aortic lymph node dissection in terms of survival needs further investigation.
Paeonol alleviates dextran sodium sulfate induced colitis involving Candida albicans-associated dysbiosis
Authors: Ge Yuzhu , Pan Min , Zhang Chuanfeng , Wang Changzhong , Ma Kelong , Yan Guiming , Wang Tianming , Wu Daqiang , Shao Jing
Published: June 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which consists of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Occurrence and development of UC have been associated with multiple potential causative factors, which include fungal dysbiosis. Growing evidence reveals that Candida albicans-associated dysbiosis is correlated with clinical deterioration in UC. Paeonol (PAE) is a commonly used traditional medicine with multiple reported properties including effective alleviation of UC. In this study, a murine UC model was established by colonizing mice with additional C. albicans via gavage prior to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) administration. Effects of PAE treatment were also assessed at initiation and in preestablished C. albicans-associated colitis. The results showed that C. albicans supplementation could aggravate disease activity index (DAI), compromise mucosal integrity, exacerbate fecal and tissue fungal burdens, increase serum β-glucan and anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA) levels, promote serum and colonic tissue pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) and decrease the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 level. It also stimulated Dectin-1, TLR2 and TLR4 as well as expression of their downstream effector NF-κB in colonic tissue. After PAE treatment, the adverse impacts of C. albicans on colitis were relieved, via decreased receptor-associated local and systemic inflammation. Our study suggests that PAE should be a candidate for treatment of fungal dysbiosis-associated UC and may act through the Dectin-1/NF-κB pathway in collaboration with TLR2 and TLR4.

Lay Summary

Candida albicans is believed to be an important stimulator in ulcerative colitice (UC) development. Suppressing the growth of intestinal C. albicans can be contributory to the amelioration of UC. Paeonol (PAE) is a commonly used traditional medicine with multiple biological functions. In this study, we observed that PAE could alleviate symptoms in mice UC model accompanying with burden reduction of C. albicans. Therefore, we suppose that PAE can be a candidate in the treatment of C. albicans-associated UC.
The TESS light curve of AI Phoenicis
Authors: Maxted P F L , Gaulme Patrick , Graczyk D , Hełminiak K G , Johnston C , Orosz Jerome A , Prša Andrej , Southworth John , Torres Guillermo , Davies Guy R , Ball Warrick , Chaplin William J
Published: June 2020

Accurate masses and radii for normal stars derived from observations of detached eclipsing binary stars are of fundamental importance for testing stellar models and may be useful for calibrating free parameters in these model if the masses and radii are sufficiently precise and accurate. We aim to measure precise masses and radii for the stars in the bright eclipsing binary AI Phe, and to quantify the level of systematic error in these estimates. We use several different methods to model the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) light curve of AI Phe combined with spectroscopic orbits from multiple sources to estimate precisely the stellar masses and radii together with robust error estimates. We find that the agreement between different methods for the light-curve analysis is very good but some methods underestimate the errors on the model parameters. The semi-amplitudes of the spectroscopic orbits derived from spectra obtained with modern échelle spectrographs are consistent to within 0.1 per cent. The masses of the stars in AI Phe are $M_1 = 1.1938 \pm 0.0008\, \rm M_{\odot }$ and $M_2 = 1.2438 \pm 0.0008\, \rm M_{\odot }$, and the radii are $R_1 = 1.8050 \pm 0.0022\, \rm R_{\odot }$ and $R_2 = 2.9332 \pm 0.0023\, \rm R_{\odot }$. We conclude that it is possible to measure accurate masses and radii for stars in bright eclipsing binary stars to a precision of 0.2 per cent or better using photometry from TESS and spectroscopy obtained with modern échelle spectrographs. We provide recommendations for publishing masses and radii of eclipsing binary stars at this level of precision.
BRITE-Constellation photometry of π5 Orionis, an ellipsoidal SPB variable
Authors: Jerzykiewicz M , Pigulski A , Handler G , Moffat A F J , Popowicz A , Wade G A , Zwintz K , Pablo H
Published: June 2020

Results of an analysis of the BRITE-Constellation photometry of the SB1 system and ellipsoidal variable π5 Ori (B2 III) are presented. In addition to the orbital light-variation, which can be represented as a five-term Fourier cosine series with the frequencies forb, 2forb, 3forb, 4forb, and 6forb, where forb is the system’s orbital frequency, the star shows five low-amplitude but highly significant sinusoidal variations with frequencies fi (i = 2, .., 5, 7) in the range from 0.16 to 0.92 d−1. With an accuracy better than 1σ, the latter frequencies obey the following relations: f2 − f4 = 2forb, f7 − f3 = 2forb, f5 = f3 − f4 = f7 − f2. We interpret the first two relations as evidence that two high-order ℓ = 1, m = 0 gravity modes are self-excited in the system’s tidally distorted primary component. The star is thus an ellipsoidal SPB variable. The last relations arise from the existence of the first-order differential combination term between the two modes. Fundamental parameters, derived from photometric data in the literature and the Hipparcos parallax, indicate that the primary component is close to the terminal stages of its main-sequence (MS) evolution. Extensive Wilson–Devinney modelling leads to the conclusion that best fits of the theoretical to observed light curves are obtained for the effective temperature and mass consistent with the primary’s position in the HR diagram and suggests that the secondary is in an early MS evolutionary stage.
Constraining the coherence scale of the interstellar magnetic field using TeV gamma-ray observations of supernova remnants
Authors: Pais Matteo , Pfrommer Christoph , Ehlert Kristian , Werhahn Maria , Winner Georg
Published: June 2020

Galactic cosmic rays (CRs) are believed to be accelerated at supernova remnant (SNR) shocks. In the hadronic scenario, the TeV gamma-ray emission from SNRs originates from decaying pions that are produced in collisions of the interstellar gas and CRs. Using CR-magnetohydrodynamic simulations, we show that magnetic obliquity-dependent shock acceleration is able to reproduce the observed TeV gamma-ray morphology of SNRs such as Vela Jr and SN1006 solely by varying the magnetic morphology. This implies that gamma-ray bright regions result from quasi-parallel shocks (i.e. when the shock propagates at a narrow angle to the upstream magnetic field), which are known to efficiently accelerate CR protons, and that gamma-ray dark regions point to quasi-perpendicular shock configurations. Comparison of the simulated gamma-ray morphology to observations allows us to constrain the magnetic coherence scale λB around Vela Jr and SN1006 to $\lambda _B \simeq 13_{-4.3}^{+13}$ pc and $\lambda _B \gt 200_{-40}^{+50}$ pc, respectively, where the ambient magnetic field of SN1006 is consistent with being largely homogeneous. We find consistent pure hadronic and mixed hadronic-leptonic models that both reproduce the multifrequency spectra from the radio to TeV gamma-rays and match the observed gamma-ray morphology. Finally, to capture the propagation of an SNR shock in a clumpy interstellar medium, we study the interaction of a shock with a dense cloud with numerical simulations and analytics. We construct an analytical gamma-ray model for a core collapse SNR propagating through a structured interstellar medium, and show that the gamma-ray luminosity is only biased by 30 per cent for realistic parameters.
Swift J004427.3−734801 – a probable Be/white dwarf system in the Small Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Coe M J , Kennea J A , Evans P A , Udalski A
Published: June 2020

Swift J004427.3−734801 is an X-ray source in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) that was first discovered as part of the Swift S-CUBED programme in 2020 January. It was not detected in any of the previous 3 yr worth of observations. The accurate positional determination from the X-ray data has permitted an optical counterpart to be identified that has the characteristics of an O9V−B2III star. Evidence for the presence of an infrared excess and significant I-band variability strongly suggests that this is an OBe-type star. Over 17 yr worth of optical monitoring by the OGLE (Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment) project reveals periods of time in which quasi-periodic optical flares occur at intervals of ∼21.5 d. The X-ray data obtained from the S-CUBED project reveal a very soft spectrum, too soft to be that from accretion on to a neutron star or black hole. It is suggested here that this is a rarely identified Be star–white dwarf binary in the SMC.
Hierarchically porous materials and green chemistry—an interview with Ming-Yuan He
Authors: Chen Li-Hua
Published: June 2020

Many examples of hierarchies are present in nature, such as water transport in leaf vein systems, the respiratory system, the blood circulatory system, etc. Hierarchically structuring a material over different length scales by mimicking natural systems can provide an opportunity to render the material suitable for a variety of functions. Tremendous research over the past decade has focused on the synthesis and applications of hierarchically structured porous materials. This rapidly evolving field has attracted great interest from both academia and industry. China is at the forefront of this field, and a scientific leader of this research is Professor Ming-Yuan He of East China Normal University. Professor He was elected to the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1995, and he received the Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress from the Ho Leung Ho Li Foundation in 2001. He also won the National Catalysis Achievement Award of China in 2012 and the National Zeolite Lifetime Achievement Award of China in 2019. Professor He's research interests focus on new catalytic materials and oil-refining catalysts and processes. He is a pioneer in the area of green chemistry in China and actively promotes the development of green chemistry and chemical engineering.

NSR recently interviewed Professor He about the current achievements and future prospects of hierarchically structured porous materials. This interview is dedicated to Professor He on the occasion of his 80th birthday, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to many aspects in the field of catalytic science and technology.
Dietary recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: de Faria Coelho-Ravagnani Christianne , Corgosinho Flavia Campos , Sanches Fabiane La Flor Ziegler , Prado Carla Marques Maia , Laviano Alessandro , Mota João Felipe
Published: June 2020

Optimal nutrition can improve well-being and might mitigate the risk and morbidity associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This review summarizes nutritional guidelines to support dietary counseling provided by dietitians and health-related professionals. The majority of documents encouraged the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods. Thirty-one percent of the guidelines highlighted the importance of minerals and vitamins such as zinc and vitamins C, A, and D to maintain a well-functioning immune system. Dietary supplementation has not been linked to COVID-19 prevention. However, supplementation with vitamins C and D, as well as with zinc and selenium, was highlighted as potentially beneficial for individuals with, or at risk of, respiratory viral infections or for those in whom nutrient deficiency is detected. There was no convincing evidence that food or food packaging is associated with the transmission of COVID-19, but good hygiene practices for handling and preparing foods were recommended. No changes to breastfeeding recommendations have been made, even in women diagnosed with COVID-19.
Tobacco and alcohol content in soap operas broadcast on UK television: a content analysis and population exposure
Authors: Barker Alexander B , Britton John , Thomson Emily , Murray Rachael L
Published: June 2020

Background

Exposure to tobacco and alcohol content in media is a risk factor for smoking and alcohol use in young people. Our previous research suggested that tobacco and alcohol imagery is common in soap operas. We now report an analysis of tobacco and alcohol content in a sample of soap operas broadcast in the UK.

Methods

We used 1-minute interval coding to quantify tobacco and alcohol content in all episodes (including advertisement breaks) of six soap operas broadcast on UK television during three separate weeks in November and December 2018 and January 2019.

Results

We coded 2222 intervals from 87 episodes and 360 intervals from 77 advertisement breaks. Tobacco content was rare, occurring in 4% of all intervals across 30% of episodes, the only tobacco appearances in adverts appeared in anti-smoking advertising. Alcohol occurred in 24% of intervals across 95% of episodes and in 13% of advertisement intervals. The programmes delivered ~381.28 million tobacco and 2.1 billion alcohol gross impressions to the UK population, including 18.91 million tobacco and 113 million alcohol gross impressions to children.

Conclusion

Whilst tobacco was rare, alcohol content was common, resulting in billions of viewer impressions. Soap operas represent a potential driver of alcohol consumption in young people.
Dual brain stimulation enhances interpersonal learning through spontaneous movement synchrony
Authors: Pan Yafeng , Novembre Giacomo , Song Bei , Zhu Yi , Hu Yi
Published: June 2020

Social interactive learning denotes the ability to acquire new information from a conspecific—a prerequisite for cultural evolution and survival. As inspired by recent neurophysiological research, here we tested whether social interactive learning can be augmented by exogenously synchronizing oscillatory brain activity across an instructor and a learner engaged in a naturalistic song-learning task. We used a dual brain stimulation protocol entailing the trans-cranial delivery of synchronized electric currents in two individuals simultaneously. When we stimulated inferior frontal brain regions, with 6 Hz alternating currents being in-phase between the instructor and the learner, the dyad exhibited spontaneous and synchronized body movement. Remarkably, this stimulation also led to enhanced learning performance. These effects were both phase- and frequency-specific: 6 Hz anti-phase stimulation or 10 Hz in-phase stimulation, did not yield comparable results. Furthermore, a mediation analysis disclosed that interpersonal movement synchrony acted as a partial mediator of the effect of dual brain stimulation on learning performance, i.e. possibly facilitating the effect of dual brain stimulation on learning. Our results provide a causal demonstration that inter-brain synchronization is a sufficient condition to improve real-time information transfer between pairs of individuals.
Online Social Cognition Training in Schizophrenia: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Multi-Site Clinical Trial
Authors: Nahum Mor , Lee Hyunkyu , Fisher Melissa , Green Michael F , Hooker Christine I , Ventura Joseph , Jordan Joshua T , Rose Annika , Kim Sarah-Jane , Haut Kristen M , Merzenich Michael M , Vinogradov Sophia
Published: June 2020

Social cognition (SC), the mental operations underlying social functioning, are impaired in schizophrenia. Their direct link to functional outcome and illness status have made them an important therapeutic target. However, no effective treatment for these deficits is currently applied as a standard of care. To address this need, we have developed SocialVille—an online, plasticity-based training program that targets SC deficits in schizophrenia. Here we report the outcomes of a double-blind, controlled, randomized, multi-site clinical trial of SocialVille. Outpatients with schizophrenia were randomized to complete 40 sessions of either SocialVille (N = 55 completers) or active control (computer games; N = 53 completers) from home. The a priori co-primary outcome measures were a social cognitive composite and a functional capacity outcome (UCSD Performance-based Skills Assessment [UPSA-2]). Secondary outcomes included a virtual functional capacity measure (VRFCAT), social functioning, quality of life, and motivation. Linear mixed models revealed a group × time interaction favoring the treatment group for the social cognitive composite (b = 2.81; P < .001) but not for the UPSA-2 measure. Analysis of secondary outcome measures showed significant group × time effects favoring the treatment group on SC and social functioning, on the virtual functional capacity measure and a motivation subscale, although these latter findings were nonsignificant with FDR correction. These results provide support for the efficacy of a remote, plasticity-based social cognitive training program in improving SC and social functioning in schizophrenia. Such treatments may serve as a cost-effective adjunct to existing psychosocial treatments.

Trial Registration: NCT02246426.
Virulence and Molecular Diversity in the Kabatiella zeae Population Causing Maize Eyespot in China
Authors: Chen Nan , Xiao Shuqin , Sun Jiaying , He Lu , Liu Miaomiao , Gao Weida , Xu Jingru , Wang Hongchuan , Huang Shihan , Xue Chunsheng
Published: June 2020

Maize eyespot, caused by Kabatiella zeae, has become a major yield-limiting factor in maize planting areas in northeast China. Limited information is available on pathotypes, virulence, and the genetic diversity of the K. zeae population. We analyzed virulence and genetic diversity of 103 K. zeae isolates collected from six provinces in China with differential hosts and the amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique, respectively. To evaluate the virulence, 103 isolates were inoculated on nine differential hosts (maize inbred lines)—E28, Shen137, Qi319, B73, Danhuang34, Zi330, Mo17, Huangzaosi, and CN165—and grouped into 23 pathotypes and three virulence groups according to the coded triplet nomenclature system on differential hosts. AFLP analysis resolved the set of isolates into four genetic diversity clusters (DICE similarity values of 76%). Genetic variation of K. zeae among and between pathotypes revealed that the pathogen population had a high genotypic diversity. The correlation between pathotypes, virulence, and genetic diversity grouping was low. A correlation between AFLP groups and geographic locations was detected.
High-Quality Draft Genome Sequence Resources of Eight Xylella fastidiosa Strains Isolated from Citrus, Coffee, Plum, and Hibiscus in South America
Authors: Pierry Paulo Marques , de Santana Wesley Oliveira , Kitajima João Paulo , Martins-Junior Joaquim , Zaini Paulo Adriano , Uceda-Campos Guillermo , Feitosa-Junior Oseias R. , Pessoa Patrícia Isabela Silva , Coletta-Filho Helvécio Della , de Souza Alessandra Alves , Machado Marcos Antonio , Gesteira Abelmon da Silva , Martins Layla Farage , Amaral Murilo Sena , Beckedorff Felipe Cesar , de Almeida Luiz Gonzaga Paula , de Vasconcelos Ana Tereza Ribeiro , Verjovski-Almeida Sergio , Setubal João Carlos , da Silva Aline Maria
Published: June 2020

Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca, once confined to South America and infecting mainly citrus and coffee plants, has been found to be associated with other hosts and in other geographic regions. We present high-quality draft genome sequences of X. fastidiosa subsp. pauca strains J1a12, B111, U24D, and XRB isolated from citrus plants in Brazil, strain Fb7 isolated from a citrus plant in Argentina and strains 3124, Pr8x, and Hib4 isolated, respectively, from coffee, plum, and hibiscus plants in Brazil. Sequencing was performed using Roche 454-GS FLX, MiSeq-Illumina or Pacific Biosciences platforms. These high-quality genome assemblies will be useful for further studies about the genomic diversity, evolution, and biology of X. fastidiosa.
A Long, Adventurous Journey: Reflecting on 50 Years as a Woman in Academic Medicine
Authors: DeAngelis Catherine D.
Published: June 2020

As part of a special collection of articles on women in academic medicine, the author reflects on her 50 years in medicine as a trainee, faculty member, administrator, and editor-in-chief of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). She uses personal experiences to illustrate several lessons learned. First, good leaders share 4 characteristics, each of which begins with the letter “T” (tenacity, tough mindedness—not toughness, thick skin, and tender heart). Second, never underestimate the ability to change things. Third, always keep a paper trail. Fourth, people will not remember what was said, but they will never forget how they were made to feel. Fifth, support that comes only from the top is actually a hanging. Sixth, losing one’s vision might be worse than losing one’s sight. And finally, some things can only be seen through eyes that have cried. The author closes with advice for women negotiating a first or a new position, and a reminder that whatever position one holds in medicine, it is part of the greatest profession in the world, affording its members the honor and joy of taking care of sick people.
Percutaneous Tenodermodesis for Mallet Fingers: An Office-based Procedure
Authors: Van Royen Kjell , Muneer Mohammed , Tsai Tsu-Min
Published: June 2020

Mallet fingers are injuries to the extensor tendon at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and can present as a bony avulsion or as a soft tissue injury. Nonbony mallet fingers are frequently splinted in extension between 6 and 8 weeks. If splinted correctly, most results are good with a mean DIP joint extension lag between 5 and 10 degrees. However, decreased swelling, hygienic considerations and patient compliance can lead to splint removal and a less favorable outcome. We present a percutaneous tenodermodesis using only a digital block and a 4.0 nylon suture. This office-based procedure provides joint reduction and prevents joint movement during the immobilization period. The suture can be removed after 8 weeks, allowing active mobilization of the DIP joint. We present the results of 8 patients with a mean follow-up of 3 months and mean initial extension lag of 32 degrees, resulting in a mean final extension lag of 2 degrees and excellent outcomes using the Crawford criteria.
The Epidemiology of Respiratory Failure in the United States 2002–2017: A Serial Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kempker Jordan A. , Abril Maria K. , Chen Yunyun , Kramer Michael R. , Waller Lance A. , Martin Greg S.
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

Respiratory failure with mechanical ventilation is a limited labor-intensive resource that is associated with high mortality. Understanding the longitudinal national epidemiology is essential for the organization of healthcare resources.

Design:

Serial cross-sectional study.

Setting:

The 2002–2017 Healthcare Utilization Project’s National Inpatient Sample datasets.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements:

We use six diagnosis codes and five procedural codes from International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification, and 19 diagnosis codes and 15 procedures codes from International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification to examine national epidemiology of different case definitions for respiratory failure.

Results:

In the United States in 2017, there were an estimated 1,146,195 discharges with a diagnosis of respiratory failure and procedural code for mechanical ventilation, with an average length of stay of 10.5 days and hospital charge of $158,443. Over the study period, there was an 83% increase in incidence from 249 to 455 cases per 100,000 adults with a 48% decrease in hospital mortality from 34% to 23%. Exploring a case definition that captures only diagnosis codes for respiratory failure, there was a 197% increase in annual incidence, from 429 to 1,275 cases per 100,000 adults with a 57% decrease in hospital mortality from 28% to 12%. For invasive mechanical ventilation without a requisite diagnosis code, there was no change in incidence over the study period, with the 2017 incidence at 359 cases per 100,000 adults, but a 19% decrease in hospital mortality from 37% to 30%. For the noninvasive mechanical ventilation procedural codes, there was a 437% increase in incidence from 41 to 220 cases per 100,000 adults, with a 38% decrease in hospital mortality from 16% to 10%.

Conclusions:

Examining different case definitions for respiratory failure, there was a large increase in the population incidence and decrease in the hospital mortality for respiratory failure diagnosis codes with more modest changes procedural codes for invasive mechanical ventilation. There was a large increase in incidence of noninvasive mechanical ventilation.
Short- and Long-Term Outcome of Chronic Dialyzed Patients Admitted to the ICU and Assessment of Prognosis Factors: Results of a 6-Year Cohort Study
Authors: Trusson Rémi , Brunot Vincent , Larcher Romaric , Platon Laura , Besnard Noémie , Moranne Olivier , Barbar Saber , Serre Jean-Emmanuel , Klouche Kada
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

Data about end-stage kidney disease patients admitted to the ICU are scarce, dated, and mostly limited to short-term survival. The aim of this study was to assess the short- and long-term outcome and to determine the prognostic factors for end-stage kidney disease patients admitted to the ICU.

Design:

Prospective observational study.

Setting:

Medical ICUs in two university hospitals.

Patients:

Consecutive end-stage kidney disease patients admitted in two ICUs between 2012 and 2017.

Intervention:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Renal replacement therapy variables, demographic, clinical, and biological data were collected. The requirement of mechanical ventilation and vasopressive drugs were also collected. In-ICU and one-year mortality were estimated and all data were analyzed in order to identify predictive factors of short and long-term mortality. A total of 140 patients were included, representing 1.7% of total admissions over the study period. Septic shock was the main reason for admission mostly of pulmonary origin. Median Simplified Acute Physiology Score II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score were at 63 and 6.7, respectively. In-ICU, hospital, and 1-year mortality were 41.4%, 46.4%, and 63%, respectively. ICU mortality was significantly higher as compared with ICU control group non-end-stage kidney disease (25% vs 41.4%; p = 0.005). By multivariate analysis, the short-term outcome was significantly associated with nonrenal Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, and with the requirement of mechanical ventilation or/and vasoconstrictive agents during ICU stay. One-year mortality was associated with increased dialysis duration (> 3 yr) and phosphatemia (> 2.5 mmol/L), with lower albuminemia (< 30 g/L) and nonrenal Sequential Organ Failure Assessment greater than 8.

Conclusions:

End-stage kidney disease patients presented frequently severe complications requiring critical care that induced significant short- and long-term mortality. ICU and hospital mortality depended mainly on the severity of the critical event reflected by Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score and the need of mechanical ventilation and/or catecholamines. One-year mortality was associated with both albuminemia and phosphatemia and with prior duration of chronic dialysis treatment, and with organ failure at ICU admission.
Evaluation of a Blended Online and Digital Learning Mode of Anatomy and Physiology for Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Barbagallo Michael S. , Porter Joanne E. , Lamunu Medina
Published: June 2020

Blended online and digital learning includes a variety of activities that combine engaging classroom-based education with online learning. The aim of this study is to evaluate undergraduate students' perceptions of a blended online and digital curriculum for anatomy and physiology in the nursing degree program. A quantitative methodology was used with a sample of 100 undergraduate nursing students from a single Australian University. Descriptive statistics are and presented in this article. Of the 100 participants, 90% were enrolled in the standard mode compared to 10% in a flexible mode of delivery. Results indicated that 29% of participants preferred laboratory classes as having the most impact. Participants (46%) also agreed that recorded lectures were useful, with 36% indicating that the online platform was easy to navigate going as far as wanting more online quizzes (49%). More than half of the participants (54%) acknowledged that anatomy and physiology was important for their future careers. The blended online and digital learner preferences in delivering anatomy and physiology–related courses should be adjusted in order for learning to be effective for undergraduate students in the future.
Digital Learning Interventions in Higher Education
Authors: Sormunen Marjorita , Saaranen Terhi , Heikkilä Asta , Sjögren Tuulikki , Koskinen Camilla , Mikkonen Kristina , Kääriäinen Maria , Koivula Meeri , Salminen Leena
Published: June 2020

This scoping review was undertaken to synthesize and describe research related to digital learning interventions in higher education, focusing on technological outcomes. Five electronic databases were searched, and 86 articles were included in the review. The data related to positive and negative technological outcomes and authors' suggestions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. The articles represented six disciplines across six continents and included quantitative (n = 65), qualitative (n = 3), and mixed-methods (n = 18) intervention studies. For positive technological outcomes, digital formats of learning were considered effective and participatory forms of learning in a majority of the articles. The students appreciated individualized and self-paced learning, and the digital form increased their motivation to learn. Automatized technical solutions that enabled learning and teaching had several advantages, and digital learning was believed to save the resources of students, teachers, and organizations. For negative technological outcomes, the technical difficulties in using the digital devices or platforms were described the most, and a need for resources was identified. Feedback from teachers was considered important from positive and negative viewpoints. Authors' suggestions for future digital teaching and learning as well as related interventions consisted of various activities, resources, environments, and methods.
Loeffler’s Endocarditis and Hypereosinophilic Syndrome
Authors: Salih Mohammed , Ibrahim Ramzi , Tirunagiri Deepthi , Al-ani Hadeel , Ananthasubramaniam Karthik
Published: June 2020

Loeffler’s endocarditis and hypereosinophilic syndromes are a unique group of infiltrative disorders characterized by hypereosinophilia, inflammatory thrombotic, and ultimately, fibrotic involvement of the heart leading to multiple complications including valve involvement, thromboembolic phenomena, heart failure. Clinical recognition, comprehensive laboratory and multimodality imaging diagnostic workup, and early initiation of treatment have been shown to slow down the progression and promote remission. This review addresses a detailed analysis of Loeffler’s endocarditis and hypereosinophilic syndromes.
Surfactant lavage for neonatal meconium aspiration syndrome—An updated meta-analysis
Authors: Hui Rong , Jing-Jing Pan , Yun-Su Zou , Xiao-Yu Zhou , Xiao-Qing Chen , Yang Yang
Published: June 2020

Background:

Surfactant lavage seems to have a good application prospect both in experimental models and patients with meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). Data regarding the effect of surfactant lavage on pulmonary complications of MAS are conflicting. In view of these uncertainties, an updated meta-analysis including the latest literatures is performed.

Methods:

A search was conducted by two investigators involved in this research in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for studies in English and other languages, in Wanfang, VIP, and Cnki databases for Chinese studies (all last launched on December 18, 2018). Ultimately, we identified 11 original studies, including the surfactant lavage group (n = 189) and the control group (n = 204). Odds ratio and weighted mean difference were calculated using a random effects or fixed effects model, depending on the data type and heterogeneity of the included studies.

Results:

The comparison of effectiveness on MAS: (1) With respect to oxygen index at 48 hours stage and 72 hours stage, data showed significant difference between surfactant lavage/control groups (we/ighted mean difference [WMD] = −3.37, 95% confidence interval [CI], −5.68 ~ −1.06; p = 0.004 and 95% CI, −5.03 ~ −2.37; p < 0.00001). (2) With respect to days on mechanical ventilation, the analysis showed that there was significant difference between surfactant lavage group and control group (WMD = −1.12, 95% CI, −1.40 ~ −0.84; p < 0.00001). (3) Regarding the need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, days of oxygen therapy, and hospital stay, no significant differences were found. The comparison of possible complications of MAS: (1) Regarding pneumothorax, the analysis showed there was significant difference between surfactant lavage and control groups (odds ratio [OR] = 0.46, 95% CI, 0.24 ~ 0.85; p = 0.01). (2) With respect to mortality, persist pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary hemorrhage, the results showed no difference between the two groups.

Conclusion:

With respect to oxygen index and days on mechanical ventilation, surfactant lavage is significantly effective compared with control group, though didn’t eventually shorten days of oxygen therapy and hospital stay. In addition, our meta-analysis showed that surfactant lavage does not increase the risk of complications.
2020 Consensus of Taiwan Society of Cardiology on the pharmacological management of patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Chiang Chern-En , Ueng Kwo-Chang , Chao Ting-Hsing , Lin Tsung-Hsien , Wu Yih-Jer , Wang Kang-Ling , Sung Shih-Hsien , Yeh Hung-I , Li Yi-Heng , Liu Ping-Yen , Chang Kuan-Cheng , Shyu Kou-Gi , Huang Jin-Long , Tsai Cheng-Dao , Hung Huei-Fong , Liu Ming-En , Chao Tze-Fan , Cheng Shu-Meng , Cheng Hao-Min , Chu Pao-Hsien , Yin Wei-Hsian , Wu Yen-Wen , Chen Wen-Jone , Lai Wen-Ter , Lin Shing-Jong , Yeh San-Jou , Hwang Juey-Jen
Published: June 2020

The global incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes have been escalating in recent decades. The total diabetic population is expected to increase from 415 million in 2015 to 642 million by 2040. Patients with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). About two-thirds of patients with type 2 diabetes died of ASCVD. The association between hyperglycemia and elevated cardiovascular (CV) risk has been demonstrated in multiple cohort studies. However, clinical trials of intensive glucose reduction by conventional antidiabetic agents did not significantly reduce macrovascular outcomes.

In December 2008, U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a mandate that every new antidiabetic agent requires rigorous assessments of its CV safety. Thereafter, more than 200,000 patients have been enrolled in a number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These trials were initially designed to prove noninferiority. It turned out that some of these trials demonstrated superiority of some new antidiabetic agents versus placebo in reducing CV endpoints, including macrovascular events, renal events, and heart failure. These results are important in clinical practice and also provide an opportunity for academic society to formulate treatment guidelines or consensus to provide specific recommendations for glucose control in various CV diseases.

In 2018, the Taiwan Society of Cardiology (TSOC) and the Diabetes Association of Republic of China (DAROC) published the first joint consensus on the “Pharmacological Management of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases.” In 2020, TSOC appointed a new consensus group to revise the previous version. The updated 2020 consensus was comprised of 5 major parts: (1) treatment of diabetes in patients with multiple risk factors, (2) treatment of diabetes in patients with coronary heart disease, (3) treatment of diabetes in patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease, (4) treatment of diabetes in patients with a history of stroke, and (5) treatment of diabetes in patients with heart failure. The members of the consensus group thoroughly reviewed all the evidence, mainly RCTs, and also included meta-analyses and real-world evidence. The treatment targets of HbA1c were finalized. The antidiabetic agents were ranked according to their clinical evidence. The consensus is not mandatory. The final decision may need to be individualized and based on clinicians’ discretion.