bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sarcopaenia complicating heart failure
Authors: Fonseca Guilherme Wesley Peixoto da , von Haehling Stephan
Published: December 2019

Sarcopaenia is defined as reduced skeletal muscle mass associated with either a decline in muscle strength or low physical performance. It has been shown to affect 17.5% of people worldwide, with a prevalence of 20% or higher in patients with heart failure (HF). Sarcopaenia has severe impact on mortality, physical capacity, and quality of life. Even though several mechanisms, such as autonomic imbalance, reduced muscle blood flow, increased inflammation, hormonal alterations, increased apoptosis, and autophagy have been proposed to fuel the pathogenesis of sarcopaenia, additional studies assessing the interaction of these conditions need to be conducted to elucidate how the presence of sarcopaenia can exacerbate the progression of HF and vice-versa. Resistance training combined with nutritional protein intake seems to be effective in the treatment of sarcopaenia, although current pharmacotherapies have not been extensively studied with this endpoint in mind. In conclusion, sarcopaenia is interwoven with HF and leads to worse exercise capacity in these patients. The mechanisms associated with this bilateral relationship between sarcopaenia and HF are still to be elucidated, leading to effective treatment, not only for the heart, but also for the skeletal muscle.
An L
p-Functional Busemann–Petty Centroid Inequality
Authors: Haddad Julián E , Jiménez Carlos Hugo , da Silva Letícia A
Published: December 2019

For a convex body $K\subset \mathbb{R}^n$, let $\Gamma _pK$ be its $L_p$-centroid body. The $L_p$-Busemann–Petty centroid inequality states that $\operatorname{vol}(\Gamma _pK) \geq \operatorname{vol}(K)$, with equality if and only if $K$ is an ellipsoid centered at the origin. In this work, we prove inequalities for a type of functional $L_r$-mixed volume for $1 \leq r < n$ and establish, as a consequence, a functional version of the $L_p$-Busemann–Petty centroid inequality.
48 The impact of new technologies on livestock breeding; what’s next?
Authors: Dekkers Jack C
Published: December 2019

Over the past decade, genomics has had tremendous impact on livestock breeding through genomic selection, which allows genetic gain based on available phenotypic records to be improved by leveraging information contained in a phenotype across all selection candidates at an early age, rather than only across close relatives. Apart from increasing and optimizing size and structure of training data, further improvement of genomic selection requires information on QTL, in order to reduce the “data noise” that is created by uninformative SNPs. Gene editing provides additional opportunities by either creating new beneficial genetic variation with large effects (e.g. disease resistance) or by rapidly increasing the frequency of favorable QTL alleles. Epigenetic manipulation of embryos is another genomics technology on the horizon. Reproductive technologies will continue to impact livestock breeding, as technologies such as AI, ET, IVEP, and semen sexing have. Novel technologies are surrogate sire technology and in vitro meiosis. Other technology opportunities lie in the area of precision phenotyping and precision animal breeding. Driven by advances in high-throughput sensor technology, precision phenotyping allows for more data to be collected to evaluate genetic merit. The ability to capitalize on this data for genetic improvement requires enhanced knowledge of the biological mechanisms that underlie traits of interest. The combination of genomics, precision phenotypic, and knowledge (and ultimately modelling) of the underlying biological mechanisms and how these mechanisms are impacted by environment and its interaction with genetics will allow implementation of “precision animal breeding.” The latter involves more accurate prediction of the outcome of specific matings in a specific environment in terms of a comprehensive breeding goal that includes animal wellbeing and sustainability. Integrating detailed mechanistic models of animal performance in an environment into genetic evaluation methods that enable prediction of genetic merit for underlying biological traits will enable precision animal breeding.
PSVI-25 Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Pasteurella multocida, Mannheimia haemolytica and Moraxella spp. of bovine origin pre- and post- treatment with antimicrobials in calves
Authors: Migura-Garcia Lourdes , Marti Sonia , Aris Anna , Rozas Ana Perez de , Tejero Carolina , Torra Josep , Pujols Joan , Devant Maria
Published: December 2019

The current production system involves movement of calves combined with mixing animals, favouring the transmission of respiratory pathogens and increasing the risk of using antimicrobials. The aim of the study was to determine the presence and resistant profiles of Pasteurella multocida, Mannheimia haemolytica and Moraxella in the lungs of calves at arrival to the farm and after treatment with tulathromycin and florfenicol. Thoracic ultrasonography was performed in two batches of calves (n = 65 and 120, age=26±11.0, weight=45-55kg) at arrival, to select 27 calves/batch with lesions from low to severe. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected on arrival (D0), D20 and D34, and also on D7 for the second batch. Pasteurella, Mannheimia and Moraxella were identified by VITEK. Detection of Mycoplasma bovis was performed by PCR. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for 18 antimicrobials. Clinical breakpoints were defined by Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute. ERIC-PCR was performed in all isolates to assess similarities. Time effect was analysed by MIXED Procedure (SAS). At D0, 16 out of 54 BALFs contained P. multocida (n = 11), M. haemolytica (n = 5) and Moraxella (n = 4). The number of calves positive for primary pathogens decreased (P < 0.001) at D7 and D20, whereas by D34 positive animals leapt up to 21. MIC results demonstrated that P. multocida and M. haemolytica obtained at D0 were pansusceptible. Isolates of P. multocida collected after treatment, exhibited resistance to oxytetracycline, tilmicosin, tulathromycin, danofloxacin and enrofloxacin. ERIC-PCR demonstrated similar profiles of P. multocida and Moraxellain the two batches of calves after D7. Primary pathogens were susceptible to the initial treatment, however M. bovis was detected in all animals after D7. Resistant species appeared to recolonize the lungs after D34. ERIC-profile demonstrated that isolates recovered after treatment were different from those colonizing the lungs at arrival, suggesting recirculation of resistant bacteria between batches.
PSVII-16 Dietary creatine and sulfur amino acids for finishing gilts
Authors: Sitanaka Natália Y , Esteves Lucas Antonio C , Murakami Alice , Gasparino Eliane , Khatlab Angélica , Pozza Paulo Cesar
Published: December 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary creatine and SID methionine+cysteine (Met+Cys) levels on the performance, blood parameters and gene expression of the creatine transporter (SLC6A8) in finishing gilts. Forty gilts, averaging 75.26 ± 0.87 kg of initial weight, were distributed in a randomized blocks design in a 2x2 factorial scheme, consisting of two creatine monohydrate (CMH) supplementation levels (0.00 and 0.10%) and two levels of SID Met+Cys (0.40 and 0.44%, considering 0.44% as the requirement), with 10 replicates. DL methionine was used to ensure the dietary SID Met+Cys levels. Upon reaching a mean weight of 100± 5.85, blood was collected for the determination of urea, creatinine, lactate, glucose and homocysteine plasma concentrations. Afterwards, the gilts were slaughtered for the collection of Longissimus dorsi muscle samples, for further determination of the gene expression of the creatine transporter (SLC6A8). No interactions (P > 0.05) we observed between the CMH and SID Met+Cys on the performance and gene expression of the SLC6A8 transporter, and also were not affected (P > 0.05) by the dietary levels of CMH or SID Met+Cys, individually. However, there was an interaction (P = 0.03) between SID Met+Cys and CMH levels on the plasma creatinine concentration, showing a lower (P = 0.018) concentration (6.40 mg/dL) supplementing 0.10% CMH than not supplementing (8.96 mg/dL), only at 0.44% of SID Met+Cys. There were no interactions (P > 0.05) between SID Met+Cys and CMH on the other blood parameters, and also no individual effects were observed for the studied factors. It is concluded that supplementing 0.10% CMH reduced plasma creatinine concentration only at conventionally dietary SID Met+Cys level (0.44%), not affecting other blood parameters, growth performance and the gene expression of the creatine transporter SLC6A8 of finishing gilts.
Feed additive blends fed to nursery pigs challenged with Salmonella
Authors: Fabà Lluís , Litjens Ralph , Allaart Janneke , van den Hil Petra Roubos-
Published: December 2019

Salmonella in pigs is a concern for human foodborne salmonellosis. Dietary fungal fermented products, coated butyrate, and organic acids (OAs) may be promising control strategies. The objectives of this study were (i) to evaluate in vitro binding affinity of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typh) and Enteritidis (S. Ent), and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) F4 or F18 to mannan-rich hydrolyzed copra meal (MCM) and fermented rye (FR) with Agaricus subrufescens; and (ii) to assess MCM and FR efficacy to control in vivo S. Typh shedding when combined with OAs and compared with coated butyrate strategy. A 31-d study included 32 pigs [6.29 ± 0.76 kg BW] individually housed and distributed into four dietary treatments: control diet; OA.BU, 4 kg/t OA plus 6 kg/t coated butyrate; OA.MCM, 4 kg/t OA plus 1 kg/t MCM; and OA.FR, 4 kg/t OA plus 2 kg/t FR. All pigs were challenged for 7 d with 1 mL S. Typh (109 colony forming units daily) at 10 d postweaning. Temperature and fecal samples were collected before and after challenge, and fecal Salmonella shedding quantified. Diarrhea scores were monitored daily and growth performance was evaluated weekly. In vitro, culture with MCM and FR showed significant (P < 0.01) binding affinity for both S. Typh and S. Ent, but not for ETEC F4 and F18. In vivo, pigs fed OA.MCM and OA.FR had lower (P < 0.05) shedding and day 3 peak shedding of S. Typh after infections than pigs fed control and OA.BU diets. Pigs fed OA.FR diet tended to have an 18% increase (P = 0.068) in BW on day 14 post first inoculation compared with control and OA.BU, and 19% increased (P = 0.093) final BW at day 21 compared with control. Diarrhea frequency post infection was overall lower (P = 0.006) for OA.FR (18.9%) than OA.BU (44.8%) and OA.MCM (41.7%) while control (28.7%) was not different. In conclusion, FR and MCM show in vitro-binding affinity to Salmonella enterica serovars Typh and Ent. Feeding FR or MCM combined with OA to nursery pigs reduces the peak and averages S. Typh shedding compared with control. Fermented rye with OA tends to improve pig performance after S. Typh challenge.
Possibility of BKV-Associated Nephropathy in Hospitalized Burn Patients
Authors: Emami Amir , Pirbonyeh Neda , Moattari Afagh , Keshavarzi Abdolkhalegh , Javanmardi Fatemeh
Published: December 2019

Although renal failure in burn patients results from some defined reasons, there are various causes which are still unclear. BK virus is a human polyomavirus, which, in case of reactivation, can cause late-onset renal dysfunction and cystitis among immunodeficient patients such as transplant, pregnant, diabetic, and HIV patients. Regarding the related challenges, Polyomavirus BK (BKV), as a ubiquitous virus, is considered as one of the potential threats in the occurrence of Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PAN). Hypovolemia, occurring due to the weakness of the immune system, may be regarded as the major reason for the possibility of PAN as a risk factor in burn patients. Accordingly, this study was designed to evaluate the reactivation of BKV as a probable risk factor for renal failure or a problem in the future life of burn patients. This case–control study was conducted from October 2014 to September 2016, during which 270 patients were admitted to the burn unit. The patients were divided into two groups of case and control according to the inclusion criteria, and 20 patients were assigned to each group. The serum samples were first assessed for BKV-IgG and then were quantified by specific quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for BKV load. Positive samples were assessed for changes in noncoding regulatory region (NCRR) compared to Archetype strain by PCR sequencing method. Amplified sequences were analyzed for NCRR arrangement while the reactivation was assessed through these changes in NCRR. In both groups, patients were seropositive for BKV-IgG. Eight patients (40%) in the case group and two patients (10%) in the control group were found to be positive for BKV DNA with a load of ≥1000 and ≥100 copies/ml, respectively. There was a significant association between BKV DNA and kidney injury in the case group. The NCRR of DNA-positive samples had a large rearrangement compared to standard strain, but they showed relatively high similarity. Compared with other patients, burn patients are among the most susceptible ones to PAN, which can be considered as a major risk factor in the treatment of burn patients and optimizing their therapy.
Integron-Related Resistance in New Emerged Staphylococcus lugdunensis Infection in Burn Patients
Authors: Pirbonyeh Neda , Emami Amir , Bazargani Abdollah , Javanmardi Fatemeh , Hosseini Seyed Mohsen , Derakhshan Bahram
Published: December 2019

Staphylococcus lugdunensis is a coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species that may cause various infections with unusual severity. In spite of the administration of various antibiotics, infections caused by such bacteria are become resistant significantly. Transmission of antibiotic resistance genes, especially by Integron structures, exacerbates the prevalence of resistant strains. To investigate the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of S. lugdunensis as a new emergence in burns, the presence of integron classes (I, II, III) was performed in recent study. Sampling for this study was carried out over a period of 13 months (January 2017 to February 2018) from Amir-Al-Momenin burn center of southwest of Iran, affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Twenty-eight isolates of S. lugdunensis were confirmed by phenotypic tests. The presence of integron classes was evaluated by PCR technique and specific primers. The majority of studied infectious agents were seen in ICU with 28.57%. The prevalence of class I and II integrons was 7 (25.00%) and 2 (7.14%), respectively, in S. lugdunensis isolates, whereas no integron III was found. No significant association was seen between antibiotic resistance and the present integrons (P > .05). Since the prevalence of S. lugdunensis strains as a new emergence infection is increasing in clinical settings especially burns, preventing drug resistance in these isolates is inevitable. So knowing the epidemiology pattern of new emerging infections and their resistant pattern is very helpful in infection control and save hospitalized patients life.
From Peacekeepers to Parties to the Conflict: An IHL’s Appraisal of the Role of UN Peace Operations in NIACs
Authors: Maganza Bianca
Published: December 2019

The article analyses the application of international humanitarian law (IHL) to UN ‘peace operations’ when, due to their factual involvement in hostilities, they become parties to a non-international armed conflict. It argues that the notion of party to the conflict allows to focus on the collective entity and its obligations, and to infer the status of individual members of the operation from the mission's collective status. In assessing the consequences of that scenario, the article further discusses the external and internal borders of the scope of the notion of party to the conflict as applied to UN peace operations, and examines the impact of the loss of protection from attack on the principle of distinction. It concludes by suggesting that, in light of the increasing involvement of UN peace operations in situations that factually amount to armed conflict, an evolutionary interpretation of the theory of IHL's application to the situation is needed.
Starvation in Armed Conflicts
Authors: Hutter Simone
Published: December 2019

Armed conflict can cause food shortages, which continue long after the fighting is over, and increase the chance that a famine may occur. When it occurs during the context of an armed conflict, death resulting from hunger is tolerated by the international community. Yet, the prevention or alleviation of famines, even within environmentally precarious regions, is often within human control. This gives rise to the following questions. Can a state use the outbreak of an armed conflict as an excuse to remain passive while starvation takes its course? Is it justified for a state to allocate most of its resources to its military operations, while claiming to have difficulties to collect sufficient resources to meet its minimum core obligations under international human rights law? This article aims to clarify these complex questions and elaborates on how the framework of human rights law includes provisions to prevent starvation in armed conflicts. With a focus on the right to food, this analysis scrutinizes the human rights-based obligations to respect, protect and fulfil, which impose clear duties on states with respect to famines. As it is generally accepted that international human rights law continues to apply in situations of armed conflict, both human rights law and international humanitarian law apply simultaneously in these scenarios. The analysis thus also examines the complex relationship between obligations under human rights law and humanitarian law and the influence of the former on the assessment of latter. Finally, the article touches upon the scope of obligations held by armed non-state actors.
Transitions from Telephone Surveys to Self-Administered and Mixed-Mode Surveys: AAPOR Task Force Report
Authors: Olson Kristen , Smyth Jolene D , Horwitz Rachel , Keeter Scott , Lesser Virginia , Marken Stephanie , Mathiowetz Nancy A , McCarthy Jaki S , O’Brien Eileen , Opsomer Jean D , Steiger Darby , Sterrett David , Su Jennifer , Suzer-Gurtekin Z Tuba , Turakhia Chintan , Wagner James
Published: December 2019

Telephone surveys have been a ubiquitous method of collecting survey data, but the environment for telephone surveys is changing. Many surveys are transitioning from telephone to self-administration or combinations of modes for both recruitment and survey administration. Survey organizations are conducting these transitions from telephone to mixed modes with only limited guidance from existing empirical literature and best practices. This article summarizes findings by an AAPOR Task Force on how these transitions have occurred for surveys and research organizations in general. We find that transitions from a telephone to a self-administered or mixed-mode survey are motivated by a desire to control costs, to maintain or improve data quality, or both. The most common mode to recruit respondents when transitioning is mail, but recent mixed-mode studies use only web or mail and web together as survey administration modes. Although early studies found that telephone response rates met or exceeded response rates to the self-administered or mixed modes, after about 2013, response rates to the self-administered or mixed modes tended to exceed those for the telephone mode, largely because of a decline in the telephone mode response rates. Transitioning offers opportunities related to improved frame coverage and geographic targeting, delivery of incentives, visual design of an instrument, and cost savings, but challenges exist related to selecting a respondent within a household, length of a questionnaire, differences across modes in use of computerization to facilitate skip patterns and other questionnaire design features, and lack of an interviewer for respondent motivation and clarification. Other challenges related to surveying youth, conducting surveys in multiple languages, collecting nonsurvey data such as biomeasures or consent to link to administrative data, and estimation with multiple modes are also prominent.
The use of acetazolamide for the prevention of high-altitude illness
Authors: Shlim David R
Published: December 2019

Background

Modern travel means that many travellers can arrive abruptly to high-altitude destinations without doing any trekking or climbing. Airports in high-altitude cities mean that travellers can go from sea level to over 3350–3960 m (11 000–13 000 feet) in a matter of hours, putting themselves at risk for high-altitude illness (HAI).

Methods

Acetazolamide has been shown to be an effective way to help prevent HAI on such itineraries. The risk of HAI on rapid arrival to altitudes over 3350 m (11 000 feet) has been shown to range from 35% to nearly 50%. The risk can be higher for high-altitude trekking. This risk is far higher than most travel medicine risks and is on a par with the risk of travellers’ diarrhea in high risk destinations.

Result

The use of prophylactic acetazolamide in a dosage of 125 mg every 12 h is highly effective at diminishing the risk of HAI.

Conclusion

Travel medicine practitioners should become comfortable with assessing the risk of HAI and determining when it is appropriate to offer acetazolamide prophylaxis to prevent HAI.
Retrospective Review of Documentation Practices of Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin, Birth Dose, and Vaccination at the Hospital of Birth, in Thai Nationals and Migrants in Northern Thailand
Authors: Bierhoff M , Pinyopornpanish Kanokporn , Pinyopornpanish Kanokwan , Tongprasert F , Keereevijit Arunrot , Rijken M , Chu C S , Nosten F , Perfetto J , van Vugt M , Mcgready R , Angkurawaranon C
Published: December 2019

Background

Vaccination remains the mainstay of prevention of hepatitis B virus (HBV) including birth dose and hepatitis B immunoglobulins (HBIGs). National estimates of vaccination coverage exclude migrants. The objective of this study is to investigate documentation practices of HBV-related infant vaccinations in Northern Thailand including migrants.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of hospital records of women who birthed infants in 2015 at Maharaj Nakorn Hospital, Chiang Mai (CM) or on the Thailand-Myanmar border, Tak.

Results

Of 2522 women, 987 were from CM (861 Thai nationals, 126 migrants) and 1535 were from Tak (651 Thai residence and 884 Myanmar residence). In CM, documentation for the birth dose vaccine (999 of 999, 100%) and HBIG was complete. In Tak, documentation was 1441 of 1549 (93%) for birth dose and 26 of 34 (76.5%) for HBIG, with missed opportunities including home delivery, delay in obtaining hepatitis B e-antigen status, and limitations of the records. Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) documentation of 3 follow-up vaccinations dwindled with subsequent doses and distance, and complete documentation of 3 HBV EPI vaccines at the hospital of birth was low, 41.5% (1056 of 2547), but equitable for Thai or migrant status.

Conclusions

This review provides strong support for excellent documentation of HBIG and birth dose vaccination in urban and rural settings, and in migrants, consistent with Thailand’s vaccination policy and practice. Documentation of the 3 HBV EPI at the hospital of birth decreases with sequential doses, especially in families further away. Innovative data linkage is required to prove coverage and identify gaps.
Public Oversight and Reporting Credibility: Evidence from the PCAOB Audit Inspection Regime
Authors: Gipper Brandon , Leuz Christian , Maffett Mark
Published: December 2019

This paper studies the impact of public audit oversight on financial reporting credibility. We analyze changes in market responses to earnings news after public audit oversight is introduced, exploiting that the regime onset depends on fiscal year-ends, auditors, and the rollout of auditor inspections. We find that investors respond more strongly to earnings news following public audit oversight. Corroborating these findings, we find an increase in volume responses to 10-K filings after the new regime. Our results show that public audit oversight can enhance reporting credibility and that this credibility is priced in capital markets.

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Sleep difficulties in children with Tourette syndrome and chronic tic disorders: a systematic review of characteristics and associated factors
Authors: Hibberd Charlotte , Charman Tony , Bhatoa Raj Seraya , Tekes Sinem , Hedderly Tammy , Gringras Paul , Robinson Sally
Published: December 2019

Sleep difficulties are common in children and young people with Tourette syndrome and chronic tic disorders (TS/CTD). However, it is unclear whether sleep problems can be considered typical of the TS/CTD phenotype or whether they reflect concomitant factors such as individual patient characteristics (e.g. medication use), underlying neurodevelopmental disorders and/or co-occurring psychiatric symptoms. To help address this question, this review systematically explored types and frequency of sleep problems in children and young people with TS/CTD, while also examining the heterogeneity and methodological quality of studies. Psycinfo, Ovid Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched using a range of terms relating to tics, sleep and co-occurring psychopathology. Studies were considered that included a sample of children with TS/CTD (n > 5) for whom sleep difficulties were measured. Eighteen studies met criteria for inclusion in the review. Findings supported the high prevalence of sleep difficulties in children with TS/CTD, though estimates of sleep difficulties ranged from 9.7% to 80.4%. Twelve studies reported on other factors affecting sleep in this patient group including tic severity, comorbid psychopathological or neurodevelopmental disorders and medication use. Studies varied in terms of methodology, sample characteristics and research quality, but most concluded that children with TS/CTD experienced high levels of sleep difficulties with children with co-occurring anxiety most at risk. The current review highlights the need for further empirical investigation of sleep in children with TS/CTS, with a view to informing understanding and clinical management.
Phosphorylation-Related Crosstalk Between Distant Regions of the Core Region of the Coat Protein Contributes to Virion Assembly of Plum Pox Virus
Authors: Hervás Marta , Navajas Rosana , Chagoyen Mónica , García Juan Antonio , Martínez-Turiño Sandra
Published: December 2019

Eukaryotic proteins are often targets of posttranslational modifications (PTMs). Capsid protein (CP) of plum pox virus (PPV), a member of genus Potyvirus, has been reported to be prone to phosphorylation in four serines at the N-terminal region. CP phosphorylation has been proposed to influence PPV infection by regulating CP accumulation in coordination with a second PTM, O-GlcNAcylation. In this study, a further proteomic characterization of PPV CP phosphorylation revealed additional phospho-targets, thus evidencing even greater complexity of the network of PTMs affecting this protein. In particular, two new phosphorylation targets, T254 and T313, at protein distal core, appear to be highly relevant for infection. Although abolishing phosphorylation at these positions does not have a severe effect on infectivity or viral accumulation, phospho-mimicking at either of these targets disrupts cell-to-cell movement. Strand-specific reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis and fractionation by centrifugation in a continuous sucrose gradient enabled us to conclude that such a deleterious effect is not related to failures in replication but is a consequence of inaccurate virion assembly. The analysis of spontaneous compensatory mutations at the CP core identified in a multiple phospho-mimicking mutant disclosed a functional dialogue between distant phospho-targets, which was further supported by an in silico PPV virion model, built on the watermelon mosaic virus atomic structure. Therefore, whereas joint and opposite action of O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation at the N-terminal disordered protrusion of CP appears to regulate protein stability, we propose that phosphorylations at the core region control assembly and disassembly of viral particles.
Effectiveness of the Taut-Line Hitch Knot in Reducing and Splinting Lower Extremity Fractures
Authors: Hussain Mohammed S. , Avilucea Frank R. , Archdeacon Michael T.
Published: December 2019

Techniques for single-provider reductions are valuable methods for provisional stabilization of fractures. In the setting of a lower extremity fracture, these techniques often use stockinette or kerlex to suspend an extremity while a reduction maneuver is performed, cast padding is applied, and a plaster splint is placed with subsequent molding to maintain reduction. Obtaining and maintaining a suitable amount of tension to the soft material while securing the limb to the stretcher or hospital bed continues to make these reduction maneuvers difficult to perform. This challenge is exacerbated in the obese patient population. As such, we describe the adaptation of the taut-line hitch knot in the setting of single-provider reductions. This knot type permits adjustable tensioning of kerlex or stockinette while suspending a limb when force is applied perpendicular to the direction of tension. This facilitates positioning and maintenance of limb suspension during reductions of unstable lower extremity injuries.
What are the Risk Factors for Deep Infection in OTA/AO 43C Pilon Fractures?
Authors: Spitler Clay A. , Hulick Robert Miles , Weldy John , Howell Katherine , Bergin Patrick F. , Graves Matthew L.
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

To determine the risk factors for deep infection in OTA/AO 43C pilon fractures.

Design:

Retrospective, case–control study.

Setting:

Single institution, Level 1 trauma center.

Participants:

All patients with 43C pilon fractures treated over a 5-year period with follow-up to bony union. One hundred fifty of 169 of identified patients met inclusion criteria.

Intervention:

Operative treatment of tibial pilon fracture.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Deep infection; patient demographics, Gustilo–Anderson classification, location of open fracture wounds, surgical approaches.

Results:

The overall rate of deep infection was 16.7%. Body mass index, tobacco use, and diabetes were not associated with deep infection. The rate of Gustilo–Anderson type 3A and 3B fractures was significantly higher in those with infection, but the overall open fracture rate was not significantly different between the groups. Medial and anterior open fracture wound location was significantly associated with deep infection, whereas lateral open fracture wound location was not. In closed fractures, anteromedial and anterolateral approaches were not significantly associated with infection, but posterolateral approach was associated with deep infection. Segmental bone loss and the need for soft tissue coverage were the only independent risk factors for deep infection.

Conclusions:

High-grade open pilon fractures are at risk of deep infection, and medial/anterior open fracture wounds are particularly vulnerable to developing deep infection. The anteromedial/anterolateral surgical approaches should be selected based on a complete understanding of the fracture pattern and soft tissue injury; however, the posterolateral approach to the tibia should be used with some caution. Ultimately injury factors (segmental bone loss and need for soft tissue coverage) seem to be the most important variables in driving deep infection, and a complete understanding of the bone and soft tissue injury is needed to manage these injuries effectively.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor expression in serum, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and skin lesions of patients with atopic dermatitis and its correlation with disease severity
Authors: Hu Yu-Qing , Liu Ping , Mu Zhang-Lei , Zhang Jian-Zhong
Published: December 2019

Background

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor, which is critically involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of skin diseases. The aim of this study was to detect AhR and its downstream regulators including cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1), AhR nuclear translocation (ARNT), and aryl hydrocarbon receptor repressor (AhRR) in serum, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and skin lesions in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods

Twenty-nine AD patients defined according to the criteria of Hanifin and Rajka and Chinese criteria of AD were included. Subjects without allergic and chronic diseases were recruited as controls. Patients and controls were selected from the dermatology outpatient clinic of Peking University People's Hospital from August 1 to December 31 in 2018. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to detect serum AhR level. The mRNA of AhR, AhRR, ARNT, and CYP1A1 in PBMCs were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. AhR expression in skin lesions was measured by immunohistochemistry.

Results

AhR was significantly higher expressed in serum (41.26 ± 4.52 vs. 33.73 ± 2.49 pmol/L, t = 6.507, P < 0.001) and skin lesions (0.191 ± 0.041 vs. 0.087 ± 0.017, t = 10.036, P < 0.001) of AD patients compared with those of controls. The mRNA levels of AhR (1.572 ± 0.392 vs. 1.000 ± 0.173, t = 6.819, P < 0.001), AhRR (2.402 ± 1.716 vs. 1.000 ± 0.788, t = 3.722, P < 0.001), CYP1A1 (2.258 ± 1.598 vs. 1.000 ± 0.796, t = 3.400, P 
= 0.002) in PBMCs of AD patients were higher compared with those of controls. The difference in mRNA levels of ARNT was not statistically significant between the patients and controls (1.383 ± 0.842 vs. 1.000 ± 0.586, t = 1.653, P 
= 0.105). AhR mRNA levels in PBMCs positively correlated with eczema area and severity index score and serum interleukin-6 levels.

Conclusion

AhR and its downstream regulators were highly expressed in serum, PBMCs, and skin of AD patients, which might contribute to the pathogenesis of AD.
What’s Your Position? Strategies for Safely Reaching Patient Comfort Goals After Cardiac Catheterization via Femoral Approach
Authors: Suggs Patricia M. , Lewis Rebecca , Hart Ann C. , Troutman-Jordan Meredith , Hardin Sonya R.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Patients frequently complain of back pain after cardiac catheterization, and there is a lack of evidence to guide practice regarding patient comfort while maintaining hemostasis at femoral access site after cardiac catheterization.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to examine if frequent position changes affect a patient’s pain level or increase incidents of bleeding in the recovery period after cardiac catheterization.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental pretest/posttest design was used to evaluate a patient’s reported pain levels and positioning changes during bed rest period postprocedure. Twenty charts were reviewed to note documentation of patient position, self-reported pain rating related to pain relief goals, and occurrence of bleeding at the procedure site. A survey was conducted to reveal nurse attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs regarding positioning and pain management for patients in the post–cardiac catheterization period. Results from this survey were used to develop education and data collection tools. Education regarding perceived barriers and importance of maximizing activity orders for patient comfort was provided to nursing staff. After nurse education, an additional 20 charts were reviewed to note if increasing frequency of position change affects pain levels reported by patients or if any increased incidence of bleeding was noted with greater frequency of position change.

Results:

Data were analyzed using correlation analyses. Greater levels of pain were associated with higher pain ratings (r = 0.796, P < .000). Use of position change only as a comfort measure was negatively associated with pain ratings; in other words, lower patient pain ratings were associated with use of positioning only without addition of medications to address complaint (r = −0.493, P < .023). There was a significant increase in number of pain management goals met from before to after education intervention (P < .046).

Discussion:

Nurse concern for increased bleeding was found to be the most common barrier for use of position changes for comfort after cardiac catheterization. This initial analysis suggests position changes in conjunction with pain medication are beneficial in managing pain after cardiac catheterization. There was no increase in bleeding or complications reported; however this study had a small sample size, and caution should be used regarding generalization of findings.
PATCHING RETINAL BREAKS WITH HEALAFLOW IN 27-GAUGE VITRECTOMY FOR THE TREATMENT OF RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT
Authors: Ren Xin J. , Bu Shao C. , Wu Di , Liu Bo S. , Yang Fu H. , Hu Bo J. , Liu Ju P. , Zhang Xiao M. , Dong Li J. , Zheng Chuan Z. , Zhang Jin P. , Li Xiao R.
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

To report the surgical outcomes of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repaired by 27-gauge pars plana vitrectomy combined with Healaflow patch and air tamponade.

Methods:

In an initial vitro experiment, we observed and compared the dissolution and displacement of the dispersion spots of 0.05-mL Healaflow and sodium hyaluronate. We then performed a prospective, interventional cohort study on 38 eyes in 37 consecutive patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. All eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy combined with Healaflow patch and air tamponade; the postoperative period did not involve prone positioning. The primary and final anatomical attachment rate, best-corrected visual acuity, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were evaluated.

Results:

In the in vitro experiment, the viscoelastic Healaflow remained adherent with no change in the size of the area; however, the control dissolved completely in the balance solution. The patient study included 16 women (43.2%) and 21 men (56.8%) (mean age, 59.5 ± 9.5 years; mean follow-up period, 8.9 ± 3.8 months). A single break was present in 21 (55.3%) and 2 to 5 breaks in 17 cases (44.8%). The macula was involved in 25 (65.8%) and attached in 13 cases (34.2%) intraoperatively. Initial reattachment was achieved in 37 (97.4%) and final reattachment in 38 cases (100%). In one case (2.6%), the macula redetached because of failure of the chorioretinal scar to develop around the treated break. Mean preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuities were 1.02 ± 0.82 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (median Snellen acuity: 20/125, range: 20/20,000–20/20) and 0.23 ± 0.17 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (median Snellen acuity: 20/32, range: 20/100–20/20), respectively (P < 0.001). Intraocular pressure was elevated transiently in 28 eyes (73.7%). There were no other intraoperative complications or postoperative scleral incision leakage.

Conclusion:

A 27-gauge pars plana vitrectomy combined with Healaflow patch, and air tamponade results in a high reattachment rate in the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Thus, patients can benefit from early visual recovery and less complications.
Interaction of tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption with obesity on cardiovascular disease in a Chinese cohort
Authors: Luo Wen-Shu , Chen Fengmei , Ji Jun-Min , Guo Zhi-Rong
Published: December 2019

Objective

We aimed to detect the synergistic effect between alcohol drinking, smoking and obesity on incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) in a Chinese population- based cohort.

Methods

We performed this study based on a prospective cohort based on a Chinese population in Jiangsu, China. Logistic regression was employed to detect the interaction of smoking, drinking with obesity on susceptibility to CVD, and calculate the odds ratio (OR) of CVD and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 3598 subjects (1451 males and 2147 females) were enrolled, including 82 CVD patients (36 males and 46 females) who new developed CVD at the follow-up. We found a significant abdominal obesity–current smoking interaction on CVD risk. Compared to never-smokers with normal waist circumference, OR (95% CI) of CVD were 2.44 (1.56–3.81), 1.58 (0.93–2.69), and 5.37 (3.08–9.34) for smokers with normal waist circumference, abdominal obese nonsmokers and abdominal obese smokers, respectively. Synergy index for this interaction was 2.35 (1.05–4.50). We also found a significant abdominal obesity–alcohol drinking interaction on CVD. Compared to never-drinkers with normal waist circumference, OR (95% CI) of CVD were 1.57 (1.01–2.45), 1.84 (1.08–3.12), and 4.44 (2.55–7.72) for drinkers with normal waist circumference, abdominal obese non- drinkers and abdominal obese drinkers, respectively. Synergy index for this interaction was 2.44 (1.04–5.72).

Conclusion

We found significant interactions between alcohol drinking and abdominal obesity, smoking and abdominal obesity on CVD risk, suggested that the effect of alcohol drinking or smoking on CVD susceptibility seems to be modified by abdominal obesity.
Predicting completion of follow-up in prospective orthopaedic trauma research
Authors: Sleat Graham K.J. , Lefaivre Kelly A. , Broekhuyse Henry M. , O’Brien Peter J.
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Orthopaedic trauma studies that collect long-term outcomes are expensive and maintaining high rates of follow-up can be challenging. Knowing what factors influence completion of follow-up could allow interventions to improve this. We aimed to assess which factors influence completion of follow-up in the 12 months following surgery in prospective orthopaedic trauma research.

Design:

Prospective Cohort Study.

Setting:

Level 1 Trauma Center, Vancouver, Canada.

Participants:

Eight hundred seventy patients recruited to 4 prospective studies investigating the outcomes of operatively treated lower extremity fractures.

Main outcome measurements:

Completion of follow-up defined as completion of all outcome measures at all time points up to 12 months following injury.

Results:

Univariate analysis and subsequent analysis by building a reductive multivariate regression model allowed for estimation of the influence of factors in completion of follow-up.

Eight hundred seventy patients with complete data had previously been recruited and were included in the analysis. Seven hundred seven patients (81.2%) completed follow-up to 12 months. Factors associated with completion of follow up included higher physical component score of SF-36 at baseline, not being on social assistance at the time of injury, being married and having a higher level of educational attainment.

Conclusions:

Our study has demonstrated several important factors identifiable at baseline which are associated with a failure to complete follow-up. Although these factors are not modifiable themselves, we advocate that researchers designing studies should plan for additional follow-up resources and interventions for at risk patients.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV
The Basigin (CD147)-CD98 protein complex is involved in Chikungunya virus attachment and entry in human cells
Authors: Caluwé Lien De , Coppens Sandra , Daled Simon , Dhaenens Maarten , Deforce Dieter , Ostade Xaveer Van , Ariën Kevin , Bartholomeeusen Koen
Published: December 2019

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), a positive stranded RNA alphavirus, recently reemerged causing multiple outbreaks around the world. Generally, alphaviruses enter the cell via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Entry is supported by the structural envelope proteins E2 and E1. Different experimental approaches have been applied previously to identify receptor(s) molecules responsible for CHIKV binding and entry in human and mosquito cells. However they cannot account for all CHIKV entry events in all susceptible cell types.

We performed affinity purification coupled to mass spectrometry to identify entry factors of CHIKV in both human and mosquito cells. We transiently expressed the N-terminally Strep-tagged, full-length envelope gene in 293T and C6/36 cells. Affinity purifications were digested on-bead and analyzed by mass spectrometry. MiST analysis allowed the identification of 39 human proteins with a confidence score above 0.8. Twelve proteins were selected for validation with CRISPR/Cas9 knock-out cells. Three separate AP-MS experiments in C6/36 cells led to the identification of 31, 58 and 11 proteins with a MiST score higher than 0.7, of which 19 proteins were chosen for further analysis.

Using knock-out experiments in 293T cells and a reporter CHIKV (ECSA strain) resulted in the identification of the CD147-CD98 protein complex on human cells as possible entry factor. Repetition of this knock-out experiment using an Asian CHIKV strain combined with E2 staining, confirmed these results. CD147 contains 2 immunoglobulin domains which is similar to MXRA8, a previously identified alphavirus entry factor. The interaction of CD147 with E2 was validated on Western Blot after affinity purification.
Halalkalibacillus sediminis sp. nov., isolated from sediment of sea cucumber culture pond
Authors: He Rui-Han , Liu Zhen-Wei , Yan Yu-Qi , Du Zong-Jun
Published: December 2019

A Gram-stain-positive, rod-shaped (0.3–0.4×1.2–2.0 µm), strictly aerobic and beige-pigmented bacterium, designated B3227T, was isolated from the sediment of a sea cucumber culture pond in Rongcheng, China (122.2° E 36.9° N). Its biochemical characteristics analysis revealed that the cells of this bacterium were catalase-positive and oxidase-negative. Cell growth occurred at 15–45 °C (optimum, 37 °C), pH 6.5–9.0 (pH 7.5–8.0) and in the presence of 0.0–22.0 % (w/v) NaCl (6.0–9.0 % NaCl). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that strain B3227T exhibited similarities of 95.7, 95.5, 95.5 and 95.3 % to the type strains of

Filobacillus milensis

,

Piscibacillus salipiscarius

,

Halalkalibacillus halophilus

and

Piscibacillus halophilus

, respectively, and the results of physiological analyses revealed that strain B3227T was most similar to the genus

Halalkalibacillus

. The cells were endospore-forming and comprised an A1-γ-meso-diaminopimelic acid-type peptidoglycan. The respiratory quinone of strain B3227T was MK-7, and the dominant fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. The genomic DNA G+C content was 38.7 mol%. The average nucleotide identity values between strain B3227T and

H. halophilus

JCM 14192T (ANIb 69.5%, ANIm 84.2 %) and

F. milensis

JCM 12288T (ANIb 70.1 %, ANIm 84.1 %) were below the cut-off level (95–96  %) for species delineation. The results of kegg analysis revealed that strain B3227T could biosynthesize shikimate acid, a base compound for the formulation of the swine flu drug. Based on its morphological and physiological properties, as well as phylogenetic distinctiveness, strain B3227T should be placed into the genus

Halalkalibacillus

as a representative of a new species, for which the name Halalkalibacillus sediminis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is B3227T (=KCTC 33093T=MCCC 1H00193T).