bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Prostate-Specific Antigen Testing for Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: Managing the Gap between Clinical and Laboratory Practice
Authors: Ferraro Simona , Bussetti Marco , Panteghini Mauro
Published: January 2021

Background

Current clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for early detection of prostate cancer recommend for clinical decision-making a personalized prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based management to improve the risk-benefit ratio of the screening strategy. Some important critical issues regarding the PSA determination in the clinical framework are, however, still neglected in current guidelines and a major focus of recommendations on those aspects would be needed to improve their effectiveness.

Content

Evidence sources in the available literature concerning the interchangeability of total PSA results measured with different commercial methods were critically appraised. We discuss how the heterogeneity of the measurand, the intermethod bias, and the design and selectivity of immunoassays may affect the diagnostic accuracy of selected PSA thresholds, and how knowledge of the analytical characteristics of assays in service, such as the recognized PSA circulating forms and the cross-reactivity with PSA homologs, is basic for improving both clinical decision-making in cancer screening and the reliability of the clinical interpretation of results at the individual level.

Current CPGs ignore the poor interchangeability of PSA results obtained from different assays and the substantial role of laboratory issues in clinical performance of PSA testing. Involved stakeholders should contribute to fill the existing gap by: (a) preparing commutable reference materials for immunoassay calibration; (b) providing analytical characteristics that may explain the different performance of assays; (c) deriving outcome-based analytical performance specifications for PSA measurement; and (d) giving more focus on laboratory items when CPGs are prepared.
Added-value of molecular imaging in myocardial metastasis of an ileal neuroendocrine tumour treated with peptide receptor radionuclide therapy: a case report
Authors: Mallón Araujo María Del Carmen , Abou Jokh Casas Estephany , Abou Jokh Casas Charigan , Pubul Núñez Virginia
Published: January 2021

Background

Neuroendocrine tumours (NET) conform a rare type of neoplasm, mostly located in the gastrointestinal tract. They are slow-growing tumours, so at the time of the diagnosis, most patients present with metastatic lesions, mainly in the liver. The myocardium is a rare and important organ for metastasis, in which 68Ga-Dotatate positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) shows a high diagnostic sensitivity for its detection, contrary to carcinoid valve disease, where anatomic imaging plays a key role, especially the echocardiogram.

Case summary

A 60-year-old man diagnosed with metastatic progressive ileal NET, who underwent a 68Ga-Dotatate PET/CT prior 177Lu-Dotatate therapy, showed a metastatic lesion in the left ventricle that was undetected in previous studies, such as an Octreoscan® and CT. A transthoracic echocardiogram was performed revealing the existence of a second cardiac lesion, a tricuspid valve carcinoid disease. A cardiac magnetic resonance showed no late gadolinium enhancement.

Discussion

The 68Ga-Dotatate PET/CT is currently considered the gold standard for assessment and follow-up of NET, including those with rare sites of metastasis such as cardiac infiltration. In this case, it stimulated the persue of possible cardiac involvement, detecting the coexistence of two types of lesions (cardiac metastasis and carcinoid valve disease). Of these, carcinoid valvulopathy develops in 50% of NET cases, while cardiac metastasis (CM) is less frequent (only 5%).
STOP-sexual violence: evaluation of a community-based nightlife worker awareness raising bystander training programme
Authors: Quigg Zara , Bellis Mark A , Hughes Karen , Kulhanek Adam , Brito Irma , Ross-Houle Kim , Bigland Charlotte , Calafat Amador , Duch Mariàngels ,   the STOP-SV group
Published: January 2021

Background

Preventing sexual violence in nightlife environments is a pervasive issue across many countries. This study explored the associated impact of a nightlife worker sexual violence awareness raising/bystander training programme (STOP-SV) on trainees’ sexual violence myth acceptance and readiness and confidence to intervene.

Methods

: Pre- and post-test (n = 118), and 3-month follow-up (n = 38) trainee surveys were implemented across three countries (Czech Republic, Portugal and Spain). Paired-sample tests examined changes across time-periods in participants’ myth acceptance (e.g. unwanted sexual advances are a normal part of a night out), and readiness and confidence to intervene. Multi-nominal regression was used to examine the relationship between the change in pre-to-post-training scores and trainee characteristics.

Results

Compared to pre-training, post-training participants were significantly (P < 0.01) less likely to agree with sexual violence myths, and more likely to be ready and confident to intervene. In bi-variate and multi-variate analyses, we found no significant associations between the change in pre-to-post-training scores and trainee characteristics. Analyses of the small follow-up sub-sample illustrated some positive changes at the post-training and follow-up time-periods (i.e. reduction in sexual violence myth acceptance).

Conclusion

This exploratory study suggests that the STOP-SV training programme was associated with a decrease in trainees’ acceptance of sexual violence myths, and an increase in their readiness and confidence to intervene. Our findings support the case for further implementation and evaluation of awareness raising/bystander programmes for nightlife workers that aim to prevent and respond to sexual violence.
Independent evolution toward larger body size in the distinctive Faroe Island mice
Authors: Wilches Ricardo , Beluch William H , McConnell Ellen , Tautz Diethard , Chan Yingguang Frank
Published: January 2021

Most phenotypic traits in nature involve the collective action of many genes. Traits that evolve repeatedly are particularly useful for understanding how selection may act on changing trait values. In mice, large body size has evolved repeatedly on islands and under artificial selection in the laboratory. Identifying the loci and genes involved in this process may shed light on the evolution of complex, polygenic traits. Here, we have mapped the genetic basis of body size variation by making a genetic cross between mice from the Faroe Islands, which are among the largest and most distinctive natural populations of mice in the world, and a laboratory mouse strain selected for small body size, SM/J. Using this F2 intercross of 841 animals, we have identified 111 loci controlling various aspects of body size, weight and growth hormone levels. By comparing against other studies, including the use of a joint meta-analysis, we found that the loci involved in the evolution of large size in the Faroese mice were largely independent from those of a different island population or other laboratory strains. We hypothesize that colonization bottleneck, historical hybridization, or the redundancy between multiple loci have resulted in the Faroese mice achieving an outwardly similar phenotype through a distinct evolutionary path.
Molecular Evolution of Antigen-Processing Genes in Salamanders: Do They Coevolve withMHCClass I Genes?
Authors: Palomar Gemma , Dudek Katarzyna , Wielstra Ben , Jockusch Elizabeth L , Vinkler Michal , Arntzen Jan W , Ficetola Gentile F , Matsunami Masatoshi , Waldman Bruce , Těšický Martin , Zieliński Piotr , Babik Wiesław
Published: January 2021

Proteins encoded by antigen-processing genes (APGs) prepare antigens for presentation by the major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) molecules. Coevolution between APGs and MHC I genes has been proposed as the ancestral gnathostome condition. The hypothesis predicts a single highly expressed MHC I gene and tight linkage between APGs and MHC I. In addition, APGs should evolve under positive selection, a consequence of the adaptive evolution in MHC I. The presence of multiple highly expressed MHC I genes in some teleosts, birds, and urodeles appears incompatible with the coevolution hypothesis. Here, we use urodele amphibians to test two key expectations derived from the coevolution hypothesis: 1) the linkage between APGs and MHC I was studied in Lissotriton newts and 2) the evidence for adaptive evolution in APGs was assessed using 42 urodele species comprising 21 genera from seven families. We demonstrated that five APGs (PSMB8, PSMB9, TAP1, TAP2, and TAPBP) are tightly linked (<0.5 cM) to MHC I. Although all APGs showed some codons under episodic positive selection, we did not find a pervasive signal of positive selection expected under the coevolution hypothesis. Gene duplications, putative gene losses, and divergent allelic lineages detected in some APGs demonstrate considerable evolutionary dynamics of APGs in salamanders. Overall, our results indicate that if coevolution between APGs and MHC I occurred in urodeles, it would be more complex than envisaged in the original formulation of the hypothesis.
The Relationship Between Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety and Disease Activity in IBD Over Time
Authors: Marrie Ruth Ann , Graff Lesley A , Fisk John D , Patten Scott B , Bernstein Charles N
Published: January 2021

Brackground

We aimed to examine associations between elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety and disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Previous findings have been inconsistent and have not accounted for variability in the courses of these conditions over time.

Methods

We followed 247 participants with IBD (153 Crohn’s disease [CD], 94 ulcerative colitis [UC]) for 3 years. Annually, participants underwent an abdominal examination, reported therapies used for IBD, and completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire. We evaluated associations of elevated symptoms (scores ≥11) of anxiety (HADS-A) and depression (HADS-D) with the presence of active IBD as measured using the Powell Tuck Index for UC and the Harvey-Bradshaw Disease Activity Index for CD. We employed logistic regression with generalized estimating equations, simultaneously estimating between-person and within-person effects.

Results

Of 247 participants, 15 (6.1%) had elevated symptoms of depression (HADS-D ≥11) at enrollment, 41 (16.6%) had elevated symptoms of anxiety (HADS-A ≥11), and 101 (40.9%) had active IBD. On average, individuals with elevated symptoms of depression (odds ratio [OR], 6.27; 95% CI, 1.39–28.2) and anxiety (OR, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.01–4.66) had increased odds of active IBD. Within individuals, elevations in symptoms of depression over time were associated with increased odds of active IBD (OR, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.15–6.34), but elevated symptoms of anxiety were not. After adjustment for covariates (including disease activity), elevated symptoms of depression were also associated with increased odds of biologic therapy use (OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.02–4.00).

Conclusion

Symptoms of depression and anxiety are associated with disease activity in IBD over time. Reducing these symptoms should be incorporated into the management of IBD.
Prevention of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Healthy Adults by a Single Immunization of Ad26.RSV.preF in a Human Challenge Study
Authors: Sadoff Jerald , De Paepe Els , DeVincenzo John , Gymnopoulou Efi , Menten Joris , Murray Bryan , Rosemary Bastian Arangassery , Vandebosch An , Haazen Wouter , Noulin Nicolas , Comeaux Christy , Heijnen Esther , Eze Kingsley , Gilbert Anthony , Lambkin-Williams Rob , Schuitemaker Hanneke , Callendret Benoit
Published: January 2021

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a significant cause of severe lower respiratory tract disease in children and older adults, but has no approved vaccine. This study assessed the potential of Ad26.RSV.preF to protect against RSV infection and disease in an RSV human challenge model.

Methods

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, healthy adults aged 18–50 years were randomized 1:1 to receive 1 × 1011 vp Ad26.RSV.preF or placebo intramuscularly. Twenty-eight days postimmunization, volunteers were challenged intranasally with RSV-A (Memphis 37b). Assessments included viral load (VL), RSV infections, clinical symptom score (CSS), safety, and immunogenicity.

Results

Postchallenge, VL, RSV infections, and disease severity were lower in Ad26.RSV.preF (n = 27) vs placebo (n = 26) recipients: median VL area under the curve (AUC) quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction: 0.0 vs 236.0 (P = .012; predefined primary endpoint); median VL-AUC quantitative culture: 0.0 vs 109; RSV infections 11 (40.7%) vs 17 (65.4%); median RSV AUC-CSS 35 vs 167, respectively. From baseline to 28 days postimmunization, geometric mean fold increases in RSV A2 neutralizing antibody titers of 5.8 and 0.9 were observed in Ad26.RSV.preF and placebo, respectively. Ad26.RSV.preF was well tolerated.

Conclusions

Ad26.RSV.preF demonstrated protection from RSV infection through immunization in a human challenge model, and therefore could potentially protect against natural RSV infection and disease.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03334695; CR108398, 2017-003194-33 (EudraCT); VAC18193RSV2002.
Nutritional approaches to slow late finishing pig growth: implications on carcass composition and pork quality
Authors: Helm Emma T , Ross Jason W , Patience John F , Lonergan Steven M , Huff-Lonergan Elisabeth , Greiner Laura L , Reever Leah M , Hastad Chad W , Arkfeld Emily K , Gabler Nicholas K
Published: January 2021

Although pork producers typically aim to optimize growth rates, occasionally it is necessary to slow growth, such as when harvest facility capacity is limited. In finishing pigs, numerous dietary strategies can be used to slow growth so pigs are at optimal slaughter body weights when harvest facility capacity and/or access is restored. However, the impact of these diets on pork carcass quality is largely unknown. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dietary strategies to slow growth in late finishing pigs and evaluate their effects on carcass composition and pork quality. Mixed-sex pigs (n = 897; 125 ± 2 kg BW) were randomly allotted across 48 pens and assigned to 1 of 6 dietary treatments (n = 8 pens/treatment): (1) Control diet representative of a typical finisher diet (CON); (2) diet containing 3% calcium chloride (CaCl2); (3) diet containing 97% corn and no soybean meal (Corn); (4) diet deficient in isoleucine (LowIle); (5) diet containing 15% neutral detergent fiber (NDF) from soybean hulls (15% NDF); and (6) diet containing 20% NDF from soybean hulls (20% NDF). Over 42 d, pen body weights and feed disappearance were collected. Pigs were harvested in 3 groups (14, 28, and 42 d on feed) and carcass data collected. From the harvest group, 1 loin was collected from 120 randomly selected carcasses (20 loins/treatment) to evaluate pork quality traits. Overall, ADG was reduced in CaCl2, Corn, and 20% NDF pigs compared with CON pigs (P < 0.001). However, ADFI was only reduced in CaCl2 and 20% NDF pigs compared with CON (P < 0.001). Feed efficiency was reduced in CaCl2 and Corn pigs compared with CON (P < 0.001). Hot carcass weights were reduced in CaCl2 pigs at all harvest dates (P < 0.001) and were reduced in Corn and 20% NDF pigs at days 28 and 42 compared with CON pigs (P < 0.001). In general, CaCl2 and 20% NDF diets resulted in leaner carcasses, whereas the Corn diet increased backfat by 42 d on test (P < 0.05). Loin pH was reduced and star probe increased in CaCl2 pigs compared with CON pigs (P < 0.05); no treatments differed from CON pigs regarding drip loss, cook loss, color, firmness, or marbling (P ≥ 0.117). Overall, these data indicate that several dietary strategies can slow finishing pig growth without evidence of behavioral vices. However, changes to carcass composition and quality were also observed, indicating quality should be taken into consideration when choosing diets to slow growth.
Worldwide distribution and depth limits of decapod crustaceans (Penaeoidea, Oplophoroidea) across the abyssal-hadal transition zone of eleven subduction trenches and five additional deep-sea features
Authors: Swan Jackson A , Jamieson Alan J , Linley Thomas D , Yancey Paul H
Published: January 2021

Decapod crustaceans are conspicuous members of marine benthic communities to at least 7,700 m deep. To assess the bathymetric extent of this taxonomic group, baited landers were deployed to across the abyssal-hadal transition zone of 11 subduction trenches spanning the Pacific, Atlantic, Southern, and Indian oceans and additional sites. Decapods were dominated by penaeid shrimps (superfamily Penaeoidea), in particular Benthesicymus  Spence Bate, 1881 and Cerataspis  Gray, 1828, with the former being found deeper. Benthesicymus cf. crenatus  Spence Bate, 1881 was observed in the Kermadec, Mariana, New Hebrides, Puerto Rico, Peru-Chile, Tonga, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz trenches, plus the South Fiji Basin and the Wallaby-Zenith Fracture Zone. They were not recorded in the Abaco Canyon, Agulhas Fracture Zone, Java Trench, or any of the polar locations. Cerataspis cf. monstrosus  Gray, 1828 was present in the Kermadec, Mariana, New Hebrides, Puerto Rico, and Java trenches, the Abaco Canyon, Agulhas Fracture Zone, Wallaby-Zenith Fracture Zone and the South Fiji Basin, but absent from the Tonga, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz trenches. Hymenopenaeus nereus (Faxon, 1893) was only recorded in the Peru-Chile Trench. Unidentified species belonging to superfamily Oplophoroidea were observed to a maximum depth of 6,931 m. Decapods are thus are primarily represented at hadal depths by penaeoid shrimps, consistently present at tropical and temperate latitudes to ~7,700 m, while absent from equivalent depths in polar regions. Their maximum depth may be limited due to hydrostatic pressure, while potentially affected by temperature and oxygen in some instances. Muscle samples of three specimens from 6,000 m (Mariana and Kermadec trenches) were found to have high levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO; 260 mmol kg–1), the major piezolyte, a protectant against hydrostatic pressure, in other deep-sea organisms. We speculate that physiological limits to TMAO concentration may prevent them from inhabiting the greatest hadal depths.
Trends in the Incidence of Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer With a Focus on Years Approaching Screening Age: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study
Authors: Howren Alyssa , Sayre Eric C , Loree Jonathan M , Gill Sharlene , Brown Carl J , Raval Manoj J , Farooq Ameer , De Vera Mary A.
Published: January 2021

Background

With recent evidence for the increasing risk of young-onset colorectal cancer (yCRC), we had the objective to evaluate the incidence of yCRC in 1-year age increments, particularly focusing around the screening age of 50 years.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal study using linked administrative health databases in British Columbia, Canada, including a provincial cancer registry, inpatient and outpatient visits, and vital statistics from January 1, 1986, to December 31, 2016. We calculated incidence rates per 100 000 at every age from 20 to 60 years and estimated annual percent change in incidence (APCi) of yCRC using joinpoint regression analysis.

Results

We identified 3614 individuals with yCRC (49.9% women). The incidence of CRC steadily increased from 20 to 60 years, with a marked increase from 49 to 50 years (incidence rate ratio = 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04 to 1.34). Furthermore, there was a trend of increased incidence of yCRC among women (APCi = 0.79%, 95% CI = 0.22% to 1.36%) and men (APCi = 2.17%, 95% CI = 1.59% to 2.76%). Analyses stratified by age yielded APCis of 2.49% (95% CI = 1.36% to 3.63%) and 0.12% (95% CI = −0.54% to 0.79%) for women aged 30-39 years and 40-49 years, respectively, and 2.97% (95% CI = 1.65% to 4.31%) and 1.86% (95% CI = 1.19% to 2.53%) for men.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate a steady increase over 1-year age increments in the risk of yCRC during the years approaching and beyond screening age. These findings highlight the need to raise awareness as well as continue discussions regarding considerations of lowering the screening age.
Spatially Resolved and Quantitative Analysis of the Immunological Landscape in Human Meningiomas
Authors: Yeung Jacky , Yaghoobi Vesal , Aung Thazin N , Vesely Matthew D , Zhang Tianxiang , Gaule Patricia , Gunel Murat , Rimm David L , Chen Lieping
Published: January 2021

The immunological status of human meningiomas is not well understood, hindering the development of rational immunotherapeutic strategies. We measured the levels of PD-L1, PD-L2, and immune cell subsets using multiplex quantitative immunofluorescence in a tissue microarray composed of 73 human meningiomas (56 WHO Grade 1, 13 WHO Grade 2, and 4 WHO Grade 3). We analyzed tumor-infiltrating immune cell populations, T-cell activation/dysfunction, and macrophage phenotypes. PD-L1 and PD-L2 were detected in 5.8% and 68.7% of cases, respectively. There was a higher PD-L1 expression in CD68+ macrophages compared with tumor cells (p < 0.001). There was a weak positive correlation between PD-L1 expression and CD3+ T-cell infiltration. The level of CD3+ cells and T-cell activation/proliferation in human meningiomas were highly variable with an increased CD4-to-CD8 ratio in higher grade tumors (p < 0.05). There was a stronger correlation between GZMB/Ki67 with PD-L2 than PD-L1. We found that 15.23%, 6.66%, and 5.49% of macrophages were CD163+, CD68+, and CD163+CD68+, respectively. In cases where there is high CD3+ T-cell infiltration, 23.5% and 76.5% had dormant and activated T-cell phenotypes, respectively. We conclude that human meningiomas are either PD-L1low TILlow or PD-L1low TILhigh tumors and harbor variable TIL infiltration and phenotypes.
Tranexamic acid use in a patient with sickle cell disease undergoing posterior scoliosis correction surgery: safely mitigating bleeding and vaso-occlusive crises
Authors: Newall Millie , Hamdan Thamer A , Ajayi Bisola , Weil Simon , Bishop Timothy , Lui Darren F
Published: January 2021

A 15-year-old female with 2-year post-menarchal adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and sickle cell disease (SCD) underwent posterior scoliosis correction surgery. SCD is associated with higher rates of surgical complications, and these patients require careful management to prevent vaso-occlusive sickle cell crises (VOSCC); scoliosis correction surgery can be associated with high morbidity and mortality, including significant blood loss.

Multiple techniques were employed to successfully prevent VOSCC in this patient including a preoperative transfusion, meticulous haemostasis at osteotomy sites, not performing a costoplasty despite presence of a rib hump, maintenance of intraoperative mean arterial pressure below 70 mmHg, aggressive postoperative hydration and the use of intraoperative tranexamic acid (TXA). This is the first reported case of the use of TXA in a patient with SCD and scoliosis correction surgery.

A satisfactory correction was achieved with a longer than average inpatient stay due to non-sickle cell pain and protracted wound ooze.
Unusual case of delayed congenital diaphragmatic hernia in Loeys-Dietz syndrome: a case report
Authors: Lobaton Gilberto O , Chen Y Julia , Jelin Eric , Garcia Alejandro V
Published: January 2021

Congenital diaphragmatic hernias rarely present after 2 months of age and are typically diagnosed in the perinatal period. Moderate to severe diaphragmatic hernias present with respiratory symptoms, while late-onset hernias have a more varied presentation, depending on the age and content of the hernia. Very rarely, such hernias are found on incidental imaging, in which surgical repair is frequently recommended. A young girl with Loeys-Dietz syndrome and prior abdominal surgeries presents with 1-year history of increasingly severe, intermittent, abdominal and left shoulder pain. Prior imaging incidentally revealed a left diaphragmatic hernia with omentum protruding into the thoracic cavity. This was managed expectantly due to her other medical and surgical issues. Serial imaging revealed that the herniated omentum was increasing in size and symptoms began to develop. An uncomplicated primary thoracoscopic repair was performed. We report the first case of a congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a patient with Loeys-Dietz syndrome.
Jejunal rupture resulting from a collision in soccer
Authors: Yau Ho-Cing Victor
Published: January 2021

Small bowel rupture in blunt force trauma usually results from high-velocity and high-energy forces. The occurrence of this following collision in sport is a rare event that requires urgent surgical intervention. This is the case of a 27-year-old male who sustained a jejunal rupture following a collision during a game of soccer.
Usefulness of Internet Surveys to Identify People with Disabilities: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Houtenville Andrew J , Phillips Kimberly G , Sundar Vidya
Published: January 2021

Disability is an important characteristic to consider in survey research. However, people with disabilities are a hard-to-reach population. Internet survey methods offer tremendous potential to expand researchers’ ability to reach and learn about people with disabilities. The goal of this study is to examine potential bias when using nonprobability Internet samples to investigate demographics and socioeconomic outcomes of people with disabilities. We compare the findings based on a national employment and disability survey instrument fielded to four samples: (1) a random-digit dial (RDD) sample, (2) a prescreened sample from a nonprobability Internet access panel, for which screening was based on the presence of 139 previously reported health conditions, (3) an unscreened sample from another nonprobability Internet access panel (without previously prescreened health conditions), and (4) a mixed nonprobability self-recruited (river and snowball) sample. Each sample was weighted on four demographic variables (gender, age, race/ethnicity, and region) using benchmarks from the American Community Survey (ACS). Three dichotomous outcome variables of interest (level of education, household income, and current employment status) were contrasted with weighted population estimates from the ACS. Results showed that the sample resulting from the RDD and all three nonprobability Internet samples differed significantly from ACS population estimates on all three outcome variables. Reweighting to include type of functional disability did not significantly reduce dissimilarities with ACS for any of the four samples. Nonprobability Internet survey methods offer relatively low-cost, easy-to-use avenues for disability-related research. Yet, researchers must proceed with caution to reduce or avoid known sources of bias in both the methodology and the interpretation of results.
Pretest Symptom Duration and Cycle Threshold Values for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Predict Coronavirus Disease 2019 Mortality
Authors: Miller Emily Happy , Zucker Jason , Castor Delivette , Annavajhala Medini K , Sepulveda Jorge L , Green Daniel A , Whittier Susan , Scherer Matthew , Medrano Nicola , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E , Yin Michael T , Kuhn Louise , Uhlemann Anne-Catrin
Published: January 2021

Background

The relationship between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral load and patient symptom duration in both in- and outpatients, and the impact of these factors on patient outcomes, are currently unknown. Understanding these associations is important to clinicians caring for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods

We conducted an observational study between March 10 and May 30, 2020 at a large quaternary academic medical center in New York City. Patient characteristics, laboratory values, and clinical outcomes were abstracted from the electronic medical records. Of all patients tested for SARS-CoV-2 during this time (N = 16 384), there were 5467 patients with positive tests, 4254 of which had available cycle threshold (Ct) values and were included in further analysis. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to test associations between Ct values, duration of symptoms before testing, patient characteristics, and mortality. The primary outcome is defined as death or discharge to hospice.

Results

Lower Ct values at diagnosis (ie, higher viral load) were associated with significantly higher mortality among both in- and outpatients. It is interesting to note that patients with a shorter time since the onset of symptoms to testing had a worse prognosis, with those presenting less than 3 days from symptom onset having 2-fold increased odds of death. After adjusting for time since symptom onset and other clinical covariates, Ct values remained a strong predictor of mortality.

Conclusions

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction Ct value and duration of symptoms are strongly associated with mortality. These 2 factors add useful information for clinicians to risk stratify patients presenting with COVID-19.
Accelerating ESD-induced gastric ulcer healing using a pH-responsive polyurethane/small intestinal submucosa hydrogel delivered by endoscopic catheter
Authors: Zhao Long-Mei , Gong Mei , Wang Rui , Yuan Qi-Juan , Zhang Yi , Pi Jin-Kui , Lv Xiu-He , Xie Yan , Xie Hui-Qi
Published: January 2021

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the standard treatment for early-stage gastric cancer, but the large post-operative ulcers caused by ESD often lead to serious side effects. Post-ESD mucosal repair materials provide a new option for the treatment of post-ESD ulcers. In this study, we developed a polyurethane/small intestinal submucosa (PU/SIS) hydrogel and investigated its efficacy for accelerating ESD-induced ulcer healing in a canine model. PU/SIS hydrogel possessed great biocompatibility and distinctive pH-sensitive swelling properties and protected GES-1 cells from acid attack through forming a dense film in acidic conditions in vitro. Besides, PU/SIS gels present a strong bio-adhesion to gastric tissues under acidic conditions, thus ensuring the retention time of PU/SIS gels in vivo. In a canine model, PU/SIS hydrogel was easily delivered via endoscopy and adhered to the ulcer sites. PU/SIS hydrogel accelerated gastric ulcer healing at an early stage with more epithelium regeneration and slight inflammation. Our findings reveal PU/SIS hydrogel is a promising and attractive candidate for ESD-induced ulcer repair.
A Hierarchy of Interests: Discursive Practices on the Value of Particle and High-Energy Physics
Authors: Yeh Chih-Wei
Published: January 2021

Current science policy emphasizes practical outcomes. In this article, I explore how a fundamental research community addresses the value of research, an area that has received a little attention. In the wake of the discovery of the Higgs boson, I analyse how particle physicists interpret the values of their research in interviews and a strategic document. The result indicates a hierarchy of interests that coordinates different values of particle physics in discourse: the status of scientific and cultural value is higher than that of societal and material value. This finding implies that value propositions are inseparable from the articulation of interests, and qualitative discourse analysis can approach a combined understanding of the two. In science policy studies, there is not yet sufficient studies on how scientists appraise different values of research. The hierarchical discursive practice on values shed lights on a culture different from policy trends.
Effect of preshipment preconditioning and injectable antioxidant trace elements (Cu, Mn, Se, Zn) and vitamins (A, E) on plasma metabolite and hormone concentrations and growth in weaned beef cattle
Authors: Galarza Esteban M , Lizarraga Raul M , Mattioli Guillermo A , Parker Anthony J , Relling Alejandro E
Published: January 2021

Weaning and transport represent a high stress time for calves. Preconditioning (PC) by weaning before the transport separate these stressors. The stressors generate oxidative stress, which can be reduced by mineral and vitamin supplementation (MVS) with an antioxidant capacity. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of PC and MVS on performance of steers. The experiment used a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement design, considering a 26-d PC treatment from weaning to transport to the feedlot (day 0), and injectable MVS on days −45, −26, and 0. The MVS consisted of Cu, Zn, Mn, Se, vitamin E (0.2, 0.8, 0.2, 0.1, and 1 mg/kg body weight [BW], respectively), and vitamin A (1,190 IU/kg). Sixty Angus-crossbred steers (186.4 ± 27.6 kg) were randomly assigned to the four treatments (MVS+PC; N+PC; MVS+N; N+N; n = 15 per treatment). BW was recorded on days −45, −26, 0, 8, 15, and 29. On day 0, an additional BW was taken 30 min after the 5-h transportation (day 0.5). Between days 0 and 29, dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) to DMI ratio (G:F) were measured. Between days −26 and 29 plasma concentrations of glucose, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), cortisol, insulin, total antioxidant status (TAS), and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances were evaluated. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS with repeated measures, using treatment, time, and treatment × time as fixed effects and steer as a random effect. Between days −26 and 0, there was an interaction of MVS × PC (P ˂ 0.01) for ADG. From days −26 to 0, N+N and N+PC had the greatest and lesser ADG, respectively. On day 0.5, no-PC steers tended to lose BW, whereas the PC steers tended to gain BW (P = 0.09). In the period days 0 to 8, there were no differences (P ≥ 0.27) in DMI, but the PC steers had greater G:F and ADG (P < 0.01) compared with no-PC steers. Plasma NEFA concentration on day 0 was affected by MVS × PC (P < 0.01) because MVS decreased plasma NEFA concentration in no-PC steers, but it increased in the PC steers. Plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, and cortisol did not differ among treatments (P ≥ 0.23). There was an MVS × PC interaction (P = 0.09) for TAS on day 0; N+N had the greatest TAS concentrations and MVS+N had the lowest TAS concentrations. In conclusion, a 26-d PC decreased steers BW compared with no-PC steers. The BW loss during PC was not recovered 29 d after feedlot entry. Despite this BW loss, MVS treatment decreased BW loss in the steers allocated to PC treatment on the day of transport.
Species Diversity and Toxigenic Potential of Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti Species Complex Isolates from Rice and Soybean in China
Authors: Lu Yunan , Qiu Jianbo , Wang Shufang , Xu Jianhong , Ma Guizhen , Shi Jianrong , Bao Zenghai
Published: January 2021

Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti species complex (FIESC) strains are generally considered moderately virulent to many agricultural crops and produce a variety of mycotoxins, which represent a serious threat to food safety and public health. The occurrence of the FIESC strain in agricultural crops has been reported in various climatic regions, but detailed information on the species composition and toxigenic ability is rare in China. In this study, phylogenetic analyses were performed with combined sequences of EF-1a and RPB2 of 186 Fusarium isolates obtained from rice (Oryza sativa) and soybean (Glycine max). Twelve species were identified and 156 of the isolates were resolved within the Incarnatum clade of the FIESC species. Host influenced the population composition: rice isolates belonged to 12 species, among which FIESC 16, 18, and 24 strains were predominant; whereas five species were found among soybean isolates and FIESC 1, 16, and 18 strains dominated. Forty-three isolates were arbitrarily selected and analyzed for their Tri gene sequences and mycotoxigenic potential. Phylogenetic results based on the combined Tri5, Tri7, and Tri13 sequences were coincident with those from housekeeping markers. Type-A and -B trichothecenes were the main metabolites. Diacetoxyscirpenol was detected in all strains at varying concentrations. Nivalenol, 4-acetyl nivalenol, 3-acetyl deoxynivalenol, and neosolaniol were produced in members of the FIESC 1, 3, 7, 8, 15, 16, 17, and 18 strains. Our findings contribute valuable phylogenetic and toxigenic information necessary for the risk evaluation of mycotoxins in agricultural products.
Flashes of UV-C Light Stimulate Defenses ofVitis viniferaL. ‘Chardonnay’ AgainstErysiphe necatorin Greenhouse and Vineyard Conditions
Authors: Ledermann Loïc , Daouda Stéphane , Gouttesoulard Caroline , Aarrouf Jawad , Urban Laurent
Published: January 2021

Using detached leaves, UV-C light in the form of 1-s flashes has recently been shown to stimulate defenses of several plants against different pathogens better than 1-min exposures under greenhouse conditions. In the present work, the pathological tests were conducted using undetached leaves under greenhouse and vineyard conditions. In a first trial, two flashes of UV-C light were applied to plants of Vitis vinifera L. ‘Chardonnay’ grown under greenhouse conditions, at an interval of 10 days. Plants were inoculated with Erysiphe necator 2 days after the last light treatment. After 18 days of inoculation, the symptom severity on leaves was reduced by 60% when compared with the untreated control. In a second trial, flashes of UV-C light were applied to grapevine Chardonnay plants under field conditions in the southeast of France every 10 days from 18 April until 10 July 2019. The symptom severity resulting from natural contaminations by E. necator was reduced by 42% in leaves on 4 July 2019 and by 65% in clusters on 25 July 2019. In a third trial, we observed that UV-C light did not have any effect on net photosynthesis, maximal net photosynthesis, dark respiration, maximal quantum efficiency of photosystem II, the performance index of Strasser, and, generally, any parameter derived from induction curves of maximal chlorophyll fluorescence. It was concluded that flashes of UV-C light have true potential for stimulating plant defenses against E. necator under vineyard conditions and, therefore, help in reducing fungicide use.
Bhendi Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus and Bhendi Yellow Vein Mosaic Betasatellite Cause Enation Leaf Curl Disease and Alter Host Phytochemical Contents in Okra
Authors: Singh Achuit K. , Yadav Brijesh K. , Krishna Ram , Kumar R. Vinoth , Mishra Gyan P. , Karkute Suhas G. , Krishnan Nagendran , Seth Tania , Kumari Shweta , Singh Bijendra , Singh Prabhakar M. , Singh Jagdish
Published: January 2021

Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci)-transmitted begomoviruses cause severe diseases in numerous economically important dicotyledonous plants. Okra enation leaf curl disease (OELCuD) has emerged as a serious threat to okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) cultivation in the Indian subcontinent. This study reports the association of a monopartite begomovirus (bhendi yellow vein mosaic virus; BYVMV) and betasatellite (bhendi yellow vein mosaic betasatellite; BYVB) with OELCuD in the Mau region of Uttar Pradesh, India. The BYVMV alone inoculated Nicotiana benthamiana and A. esculentus cv. Pusa Sawani plants developed mild symptoms. Co-inoculation of BYVMV and BYVB resulted in a reduced incubation period, an increased symptom severity, and an enhanced BYVMV accumulation by Southern hybridization and quantitative real-time PCR. This is the first study that satisfies Koch’s postulates for OELCuD in its natural host. Activities of various antioxidative enzymes were significantly increased in the virus-inoculated okra plants. Differential responses in various biochemical components (such as photosynthetic pigments, phenol, proline, and sugar) in diseased okra plants were observed. This change in phytochemical responses is significant in understanding its impact on virus pathogenesis and disease development.
The Anatomic Relevance of the Iliopectineal Fascia for Acetabular Surgery
Authors: Moreno Gabriela , Ponce de León Jorge G. , Rickman Mark
Published: January 2021

Objective:

To describe in detail the variability of the attachments of the iliopectineal fascia (IPF) and its relation to the external iliac vessels to inform surgical approaches and help prevent injury to the adjacent vascular structures.

Methods:

A cadaveric study was performed on 16 specimens. The IPF was identified from the lateral and medial perspectives of the II and anterior intrapelvic approaches, respectively, and its anatomic characteristics were described.

Results:

The IPF originates in the fascia of the psoas muscle, it has variable attachments in the pelvic brim, and it inserts in the medial surface of the iliac bone where it is continuous with the obturator internus fascia. Two variants were found in relation to the external iliac vessels. In one variant found in 4 cadavers, the IPF formed a sail-like structure that surrounds the external iliac vessels. In the other variant observed in 4 cadavers, the IPF overlaid the iliac fossa, under the external iliac vessels which laid free in the iliac fossa.

Conclusions:

The anatomic variants of the attachment of the IPF to the pelvic brim and its variants in relation to the external iliac vessels must be accounted for when performing acetabular surgery to prevent vascular injury and attain adequate exposure.
Does Malrotation After Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis Treatment of Distal Tibia Metaphyseal Fractures Effect the Functional Results of the Ankle and Knee Joints?
Authors: Çepni Şahin , Yaman Fırat , Veizi Enejd , Fırat Ahmet , Çay Nurdan , Tecimel Osman
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

To investigate whether rotational malalignment of tibia, after fracture management with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis technique (MIPO), leads to impaired results in knee and ankle joint functional scores.

Design:

Prospectively collected data were retrospectively analyzed for this study.

Setting:

Level III academic trauma center.

Patients/Participants:

Sixty-five consecutive patients who applied between October 2010 and January 2014 with a unilateral distal tibia fracture and had full bone union at their last visit were analyzed. Patients were excluded if they had a pathologic fracture, Gustilo–Anderson type II or III open fracture, additional ligamentous trauma, were pregnant, or had any deformity. A total of 27 patients were accepted into the study.

Intervention:

All patients were treated with a MIPO technique after a mean of 2.8 days. The fibular fracture, when present, was fixed first.

Main Outcome Measurements:

The main outcome of this study was the relation between tibial malrotation after a MIPO procedure, and Lower Extremity Functional Scale, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, KOOS scores, and range of motions of adjacent joints.

Results:

Fourteen patients (51.8%) had a rotation higher than 10 degrees. The mean malrotation angle was 14.6 degrees. Concomitant fibular fractures were present in 13 patients, which did not seem to have a significant influence on malrotation. There was no significant difference between groups regarding functional scores and range of motions of the knee and ankle joints.

Conclusions:

Despite high rates of malrotation after tibial metaphyseal–diaphyseal fractures treated with MIPO technique, this finding does not seem to have a significantly negative effect on knee and ankle joint functions. Meticulous intraoperative evaluation, through a range of different techniques, should be performed to avoid malrotation.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Vertical Transmission from an Asymptomatic Mother
Authors: Carbayo-Jiménez Tania , Carrasco-Colom Jaime , Epalza Cristina , Folgueira Dolores , Pérez-Rivilla Alfredo , Barbero-Casado Patricia , Blázquez-Gamero Daniel , Galindo-Izquierdo Alberto , Pallás-Alonso Carmen , Moral-Pumarega Maria Teresa
Published: January 2021

In utero transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection is a point of debate. We report a case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vertical transmission from asymptomatic mother, with molecular detection in mother’s blood at delivery and neonatal nasopharyngeal swabs at 5 and 28 hours of life and later IgG seroconversion. The newborn was asymptomatic.
Degree for weakly upper semicontinuous perturbations of quasi-m-accretive operators
Authors: Kryszewski W. , Maciejewski M.
Published: January 2021

In the paper, we provide the construction of a coincidence degree being a homotopy invariant detecting the existence of solutions of equations or inclusions of the formAx ∈ F(x),x ∈ U, whereA:D(A)⊸Eis anm-accretive operator in a Banach spaceE,F:K⊸Eis a weakly upper semicontinuous set-valued map constrained to an open subsetUof a closed setK ⊂ E. Two different approaches are presented. The theory is applied to show the existence of non-trivial positive solutions of some nonlinear second-order partial differential equations with discontinuities.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Topological degree and fixed point theories in differential and difference equations’.
A phase I/II trial to treat massive Africanized honeybee (Apis mellifera) stings using the new apilic antivenom
Authors: Barbosa Alexandre Naime , Ferreira Rui Seabra , de Carvalho Francilene Capel Tavares , Schuelter-Trevisol Fabiana , Mendes Mônica Bannwart , Mendonça Bruna Cavecci , Batista José Nixon , José Trevisol Daisson , Boyer Leslie , Chippaux Jean-Philippe , Medolago Natália Bronzatto , Cassaro Claudia Vilalva , Rigotto Carneiro Márcia Tonin , de Oliveira Ana Paola Piloto , Pimenta Daniel Carvalho , da Cunha Luís Eduardo Ribeiro , dos Santos Lucilene Delazari , Barraviera Benedito
Published: January 2021

Safety, optimal minimum dose, and, preliminary effectiveness of a new generation Africanized honeybees (Apis mellifera) antivenom (AAV) were evaluated. A phase I/II, multicenter, non- randomized, single-arm clinical trial involving 20 participants showing multiple stings were studied. Participants have received either 2 to 10 vials of AAV based on the stings number together with a predefined adjuvant, symptomatic, and complementary treatment schedule. The primary safety endpoint was the presence of early adverse reactions within the first 24 hours after treatment. Preliminary efficacy through clinical evolution, including laboratory tests, was assessed at baseline and over the following four weeks. ELISA assays and mass spectrometry estimated the venom pharmacokinetics before, during, and after treatment. Twenty adult participants, 13 (65%) males, and 7 (35%) females, with a median age of 44 years and a mean body surface of 1.92 m2 (median = 1.93 m2) were recruited. The median number of stings was 52.5 ranging from 7 to more than 2,000. Envenoming severity was classified as 80% mild, 15% moderate, and 5% severe. According to the protocol, 16 (80%) participants received two AAV vials, 3 (15%) six vials, and one (5%) 10 vials. There was no discontinuation of the treatment due to acute adverse events and there were no late adverse reactions. Two patients showed mild adverse events with only transient itchy skin and erythroderma. All participants completed the infusion within two hours and there was no loss of follow-up after discharge. ELISA assays showed venom concentrations varying between 0.25 ng/mL and 1.479 ng/mL prior to treatment. Venom levels decreased in all cases during the hospitalization period. Surprisingly, in nine cases (45%), despite clinical recovery and without symptoms, the venom levels increased again during outpatient care 10 days after discharge. Mass spectrometry showed melittin in eight participants 30 days after the treatment. Considering the promising safety results of the investigational product for the treatment of massive Africanized honeybee attacks, added to efficacy in clinical improvement and immediate decrease in blood venom level, the AAV has shown to be safe for human use.

Trial registration

Universal Trial Number (UTN): U1111-1160-7011, Register Number: RBR-3fthf8 (http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3fthf8/).