bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSVII-5 Soil parameters affect ammonia fluxes from livestock urine and urea fertilizer
Authors: Longhini Vanessa Z , Cardoso Abmael S , Berça Andressa S , Gonçalves Pedro H , Boddey Robert M , Reis Ricardo , Dubeux Jose C B , Ruggieri Ana Claudia
Published: December 2019

This study evaluated soil parameters involved in ammonia (NH3) fluxes from livestock excreta and urea fertilizer. Treatments were distributed in a randomized block design, with five replicates. Treatments included application of 1) urine; 2) dung; or 3) urea fertilizer (50 kg N ha-1) on palisadegrass pasture (Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu). Excreta was collected from crossbred heifers grazing palisadegrass pastures. One soil background treatment without excreta or urea was included for the measurement of NH3 fluxes. Treatments were applied in May/2017, April/2018, and Jul/2018. One liter of urine, 1.6 kg of dung, and 2.67 g of urea fertilizer were added inside the chamber according to treatment. Ammonia flux was evaluated using a semi-opened free static chamber and N determination by steam distillation. The extracted solution of fresh soil was analyzed in spectrophotometer. Pearson’s correlation and linear regression analyses were run to identify which soil parameters explained NH3 ﬂuxes. Soil parameters were ammonium (NH4+), nitrate (NO3-), pH, and water filled pore space (%WFPS). For urine, a negative correlation (r = -0.68; P = 0.005) was found between NH3 flux and NO3-. Soil NO3- and pH affected NH3 fluxes as determined by multivariate regressions analysis. For urea fertilizer, a positive correlation was found between NH3 flux and NH4+ (r=0.62; P = 0.03), NH3 flux and NO3- (r = 0.57; P = 0.03), and NH3 flux and %WFPS (r = 0.59; P = 0.02). The %WFPS affected NH3 fluxes as determined by single regressions analysis. There was no significant correlation between NH3 fluxes and the soil parameters (P > 0.05) when dung was applied. Greatest N loss by NH3 emission when urine was applied decreased soil NO3-. Dung formed a superficial crust that might have acted as a physical barrier, reducing losses. Greater soil moisture increased urea hydrolysis resulting in soil ammonification and nitrification. Nitrates for urine and %WFPS for urea were the major drivers affecting NH3 fluxes.
PSV-29 Changes in the PSE and DFD porcine muscle proteome during autolysis
Authors: Vostrikova Natalia L , Chernukha Irina M , Kovalev Leonid I , Schkabrov Oleg V
Published: December 2019

Despite reducing of pale, soft, exudative (PSE) pork share, its amount is 45% in Russia and 65% in Belarus of the total. Dark, firm, dry (DFD) pork occurrence increases to 20% in Russia and 30% in Belarus. Protein changes in normal (NOR), PSE and (DFD) pork muscle during 5 days ageing were studied. Were found differences in their protein profiles and potential protein markers of such raw materials were identified. Mainly in range 600–1000 Da and up to 450 Da. Analysis of the peptide composition showed two myosin light chain isoforms (MLC) (Mw/pI): MLC-like protein — 21.8/5.00 and phosphorylated MLC f -21.0/4.90, in the sample. One of which is fast, the other is slow MLC isoform. Increase in the number of fragments was noted of such proteins as pyruvatekinase, α-enolase, muscle creatine phosphokinase and GPDH, adenylatekinase, αB-crystallin. A correlation between muscle proteins breakdown (the troponin group/troponin family) and the characteristics of meat was found. In NOR samples, troponin I decomposed quite clearly. The most obvious autolysis marker is the appearance and increase of three additional fragments of fast skeletal muscle troponin T, which differ in molecular weight and pI. According to the tryptic peptides mass spectra, the C- and N-molecule terminal parts peptides are no longer detected sequentially. Moreover, in DFD samples, they are most significantly split into shorter peptides. Appearance of short N-terminal GPDH 21 kDa fragment on the 5th day of autolysis is PSE specific marker. Totally 12, 14 and 18 specific peptides were identified in chilled and 18, 32 and 38 on 5th day of autolysis in PSE, NOR and DFD pork respectively. DFD meat can be considered a source of natural specific low-molecular peptides, specifically to produce meat products with functional properties. (Research was supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project 16-16-10073)
PSV-30 A nutritional survey of commercially available grass-finished beef
Authors: Rowntree Jason , Bronkema Sara , Jain Raghav , Schweihofer Jeannine , Bitler Chad , Fenton Jenifer
Published: December 2019

Consumer interest in the source of their food, its environmental footprint, and the impact of diet on health has supported the growth of the grass-finished beef (GFB) industry. Studies have concluded that GFB has distinct nutritional differences from conventionally-finished beef. As the GFB industry continues to expand, it is vital to continue to explore the nutritional complexities and variation in the product. To achieve this, a survey of grass-finishing production systems throughout the United States was conducted, and beef finished on the participating farms was analyzed for its nutritional composition, including fatty acid (FA), mineral and fat-soluble vitamin contents. Samples were analyzed from 12 producers and annual production capacity of farms ranged from 25 to 5,000 cattle, with a mean age of cattle at harvest of 26.8 ± 2.30 mo. An array of finishing diets included grazing exclusively in perennial pasture, incorporating annual forage crops, and feeding a variety of harvested forages with supplementation of non-starch feed byproducts. Beef muscle tissue FA content was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The mean ratio of omega-6 (n-6) to omega-3 (n-3) FA in samples varied significantly by producer, ranging from 1.80 to 28.3 (P < 0.0001), with an overall sample set median of 4.10. A selection of minerals including iron, magnesium, and potassium were analyzed by ICP emission spectroscopy and mineral content significantly differed by producer for all minerals (P < 0.001). Mean α-tocopherol and β-carotene content was 610.6 μg/100 g beef and 32.2 μg/100 g, respectively. The amount of these antioxidants also varied between producers (P < 0.0001), but tended to be greater in beef finished solely on fresh forages. This survey indicates that commercially available GFB can vary in nutritional composition due to the diverse practices used to grass-finish cattle.
PSXIII-1 Age-related changes in the ratio of different spermatogonia types in the seminiferous tubules of quail testes
Authors: Tomgorova Evgeniya K , Volkova Natalia A , Vetokh Anastasia N , Novgorodova Inna P , Volkova Ludmila A , Zinovieva Natalia A
Published: December 2019

Spermatogonia are early-undifferentiated germ cells, giving rise to mature male generative cells — the spermatozoa. There are two types of spermatogonia – A and B. Of greatest interest is the use of type A spermatogonia, which are the stem cells of the testes. To select the appropriate age for collecting spermatogonia А from quails it is necessary to know the specific features of spermatogenesis. Development dynamics of various spermatogonia types in the quail testicular tubules was studied. Histological studies of the quails testicular tubules at the age of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 weeks (n = 30) were carried out. Samples of testis tissue were fixed in Bouin’s fixative. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Identification of different spermatogonia types was carried out according to their morphology. Type A spermatogonia were additionally identified by immunohistochemistry using SSEA-1 antibodies. The proportion of spermatogonia in the total number of spermatogenic cells in the seminiferous tubules of quails changed with age. The maximum value was reached at the age of 3 weeks and it was 76±6%. On reaching maturity (6 weeks), this indicator decreased to 12 ± 1 %. In the early period of ontogenesis (1–2 weeks), spermatogonia cells were represented mainly by type A spermatogonia. The proportion of these cells from the total number of spermatogonia reached 80 ± 3 %. With increasing age, this indicator decreased, reaching minimum values for achieving maturity (6 weeks) - 16 ± 1 %. The percentage of type B spermatogonia in the seminiferous tubule of quails on the contrary increased with age — from 5 ± 1% at 1 week old to 70 ± 2% at maturity. Thus, the age no later than 2 weeks is the most optimal for the isolation type A spermatogonia of quails. Supported by RFBR (18-29-07079).
PSXIII-12 Evaluation of split-time artificial insemination following administration of the 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR® estrus synchronization protocol in beef heifers
Authors: Knickmeyer Emma R , Thomas Jordan M , Locke James William C , Bonacker Rachael C , Ellersieck Mark R , Poock Scott E , Smith Michael F , Patterson David J
Published: December 2019

Estrous response and pregnancy rates resulting from fixed-time (FTAI) or split-time (STAI) artificial insemination were compared among heifers following treatment with the 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR® (controlled internal drug release;1.38g progesterone) protocol. Heifers (n = 456) were assigned to balanced treatments based on weight and reproductive tract score (RTS; Scale 1–5). Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; 100 µg gonadorelin acetate) was administered coincident with CIDR® insertion. Progesterone inserts were removed after 7 d, and PG (250 mg im cloprostenol sodium) was administered at CIDR® removal. Estrus detection aids (Estrotect®) were applied at the time PG was administered. Estrous status was recorded at FTAI or STAI, and estrus was defined as removal of ≥ 50% of the grey coating from the Estrotect® patch. Heifers assigned to the FTAI treatment received GnRH and were artificially inseminated 54 h after PG administration. In the STAI treatment, only heifers that expressed estrus prior to 54 h were artificially inseminated at that time. For heifers failing to express estrus, AI was postponed 24 h and only those heifers that failed to exhibit estrus by the delayed time (78 h) received GnRH concurrent with AI. Estrous response prior to the standard time of FTAI did not differ between treatments (P = 0.3). Total estrous response was increased (P < 0.001) among heifers assigned to STAI (74%, STAI; 47%, FTAI); however, pregnancy rates resulting from AI were similar between treatments (48%, STAI; 46%, FTAI; P = 0.4), as were pregnancy rates at the end of a 60 d breeding season (P = 0.6). In summary, STAI resulted in a greater estrous response following treatment with the 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR® protocol; however, this did not result in an increase in pregnancy rate compared to heifers that received FTAI.
PSXIII-7 Effects of high fat diets on metabolic parameters and markers of colonic permeability in dogs
Authors: Moinard Alex , Flanagan John , André Agnès , Ouguerram Khadija , Nguyen Patrick , Leray Véronique
Published: December 2019

Obesity and nutritional factors like high-fat diets (HFD) are associated with metabolic alterations, which result from the diet, bodyweight change or both. The objective was to determine the effects of HFD consumed either at maintenance or excess energy levels on BW, metabolic parameters, and colonic permeability markers. A HFD (35% fat as fed, 4923 kcal/kg) was given for 8wks to 24 healthy Beagle dogs, 8 at 100% (G1.0) and 16 at 150% (G1.5) maintenance energy levels for each individual dog. At baseline and after 8wks, basal leptinemia, ghrelinemia, glycemia and insulinemia were measured, while postprandial glycemia and insulinemia were determined for 6h following a challenge test meal. Colonic mucosa biopsies were performed and the expression of proteins involved in permeability was analyzed using RT-rtPCR. Results were analyzed using linear mixed model (nlme package; R) with dog as a random term (data rank-transformed where residuals not normally distributed). Ethics approval was granted by the French Ministry of Research and Royal Canin’s Ethical Committee. In the G1.5 group, increases in bodyweight (15%; P < 0.001), leptinemia (5±2 vs 2±1 ng/ml; P < 0.01), and postprandial insulin AUC (10405±2316 vs 6232±1368 μU.min.ml-1; P = 0.03) were observed at 8wks compared to baseline, whereas ghrelinemia decreased (552±361 vs 633±413 pg/ml; P = 0.04). No such change were observed in the G1.0 group. In both groups at 8wks, mRNA levels of claudin 2 (G1.0: P < 0.05; G1.5: P < 0.01) and syndecan (G1.0: P < 0.01; G1.5: P < 0.01) were higher compared to baseline, while mRNA levels of TJP1 (P < 0.01) increased in the G1.5 group. The changes observed in the G1.5 group but not in the G1.0 group suggest that the metabolic and hormonal parameters are related to weight gain but not to HFD alone. Furthermore, the mechanisms behind the modifications to colonic permeability markers observed in both groups remains to be elucidated.
PSXI-6 Effects of different feeding strategies during gestation on the reproductive performance of crossbred Landrace-Yorkshire sows
Authors: Zhou Yuanfei , Peng Jian
Published: December 2019

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different feeding strategies during gestation on the reproductive performance of sows. A total of 1121 American Landrace-Yorkshire (YL) crossbred sows and parity from 1 to 4 were assigned randomly to “North American System” feeding pattern or “Danish System” feeding pattern during gestation basing on the backfat thickness and body weight. Sows received the same diet and fed ad libitum during lactation. Results showed that over the entire gestation period, there was also no difference in average daily feed intake and total feed intake between two groups (P > 0.05). “Danish System” group has significantly improved the backfat thickness at gestation 30 d (P < 0.01). At 110 d of gestation, there was no difference of the backfat thickness between two groups (P > 0.05). “Danish System” group had significantly increased the total number of born (P = 0.02) and born alive (P = 0.04). The number of total born (P = 0.04), stillborn (P = 0.05) and mummies (P = 0.02), had significantly different in between parities of sows. Mummies had significantly interaction effect (P = 0.01). No different was observed for the number of weaned pigs, litter weight at weaning, piglet weight, and weaning to oestrus interval between two groups. However, a significant increase of litter weight at weaning, piglet weight, was associated with increased parity of sow (P < 0.01). The results of the present investigation showed that “Danish System” group could significantly increase the litter size and number born alive. Our findings point to the importance that the Danish system can be applied to North American genotypes.
PSXII-8 Effects of fat matrix and particle size of coated methionine on by-pass fraction of dry matter and nitrogen
Authors: Royo Leandro , Puyalto Mónica , De Evan Trinidad , Mallo Juan José , Carro Maria Dolores
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the By-Pass fraction (BPF) of the dry matter (DM) and nitrogen (N) of coated methionine with different fat matrix (FM) and particle size (PS). Two FM (Hydrogenated Stearin, HS, and Hydrogenated Palm Fatty Acid Distillate, HPFAD) and four PS (< 500, 500–750, 750–1400, and >1400 µm) were evaluated in an in situ trial with three rumen-cannulated sheep. Intact samples (1 g) were weighed into nylon bags and incubated in the rumen for 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h; process repeated twice in each sheep. After extraction from the rumen, the bags were washed with cold water, frozen and lyophilized, before determining N content in the incubation residue. Effective degradability of DM and N was calculated for a rumen passage rate of 0.08/h-1 according to Ørskov and McDonald (1979), and the BPF was calculated as 100 minus the effective degradability. Data were analyzed using a mixed-effect model, with FM, PS and FMxPS interaction as fixed effects and sheep as random; means were compared with LSD test (P ≤ 0.05). HS-coated methionine had higher values of BPF of DM and N (78.2 and 49.6%, respectively; values averaged for all PS; P < 0.001) than HPFAD-coated methionine (64.4 and 17.7%, respectively). There was an interaction between FM and PS (P < 0.001) for BPF of DM and N. Increasing PS of HS-methionine augmented the BPF from 68.9 to 90.3% for DM and from 22.9 to 79.8% for N, whereas the increases for PFAD-methionine were lower (from 66.3 to 66.3% for DM, and from 7.5 to 28.6% for N). It is concluded that the use of HS as FM and the increase of PS are valid strategies to improve methionine protection from ruminal degradation, reaching BPF values of 90.3 and 79.8 % for DM and N, respectively.
PSXIV-16 Comparative in vitro effects of spray-dried and freshly-harvested Paenibacillus fortis strain 79R4 on rumen methane, nitrate, nitrite and ammonia metabolism
Authors: Felix-Portillo Monserrath , Latham Elizabeth , Armendariz-Rivas Ruth Lisbeth , Salinas-Chavira Jaime , Arzola Claudio , Anderson Robin
Published: December 2019

Nitrate supplementation into the ruminant diet can decrease ruminal methane emissions, but amounts needed to achieve appreciable decreases can risk ruminal accumulations of nitrite with potential for methemoglobinemia. A denitrifying rumen Paenibacillus fortis strain 79R4 (79R4) selected for enhanced nitrite-metabolizing ability has shown promise as a probiotic to decrease risks of nitrite toxicosis. Presently, a spray-dried prototype of this spore-forming, facultative anaerobe was tested during anaerobic culture (10 mL/tube) of rumen fluid freshly-collected from an alfalfa hay-fed cannulated Jersey cow. Cultures supplemented with 22 mM sodium nitrate and without or with inoculations of freshly-harvested (FH) cells or spray dried (SP) 79R4 spores (3 tubes/treatment; 108 cells/spores per tube) were cultured anaerobically (39oC for 24 h with 100% CO2). The FH- and SP- cells were grown aerobic, 72 h in tryptic soy broth, SP- cells were then processed and spray-dried. Nitrate-supplementation decreased (P = 0.0006; SEM = 0.31) methane production by the cultures, but this decrease was unaffected by 79R4 inoculation (2.57 µmol CH4/mL with no nitrate/no inoculum versus 0.15 µmol CH4/mL with nitrate/inoculum). Nitrate-metabolizing activity in nitrate-treated cultures were unaffected by 79R4 inoculations (P = 0.17; SEM = 0.15), rates being 0.95, 0.63 and 0.50 µmol nitrate/mL h-1 FH-, SP- and non-inoculated cultures, respectively. Nitrite accumulation rates (P = 0.10; SEM = 0.06) and peak nitrite concentrations (P = 0.06; SEM = 0.75) tended to be lower in SP- than in FH- and non-inoculated cultures (0.29, 0.47 and 0.47 µmol nitrite/mL h-1 and 3.33, 5.67 and 5.66 µmol/mL, respectively). Rates of ammonia accumulation were more rapid (P = 0.01; SEM = 0.01) in SP- and FH- than in non-inoculated cultures (0.16 and 0.15 versus 0.06 µmol/mL h-1, respectively). Results provide evidence that 79R4 prototype may aid rumen populations in detoxifying nitrite, therefore enhancing the abilities of high nitrate diets.
PSXIV-25 Carcass characteristics from hair lambs fed with different energy suplementation strategies
Authors: Castañeda-Serrano Roman , Lozano-Morales Paula , Gutierrez-Oviedo Fabian , Ramirez-Castilla Karol
Published: December 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate quality of meat from hair lambs fed different energeticsources in the finishing phase. Twenty-eight hair lambs with an initial body weight (BW) 20.8 ±3.01, were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments included with seven lambs pertreatment included an energy source included at 18% dry matter: S. spectabilis flour (SF), palm kernel (PK), corn bran (CB) and rice bran (RB) in a diet based in corn silage, ground corn, soybean meal formulated to 13% PC and 2.6 Mcal/Kg DM. The feeding was performed for 13 weeks. Animals were slaughtered after the feeding trial, and the carcasses were kept at 4°C for 24 hours under Colombian standard guidelines. 0 and 24 hours after slaughter from the Longissimus dorsi of the left half carcass between 12th and 13th ribs for color analysis (L*, a*, and b*) and pH. Thestatistical model included the effects of diet, time, and their interactions. There was no effect of treatment on pH and L* and b* indices (P > 0.05). Aging time increased b* values and reduces the pH values, L* values and a* values (P < 0.05). The a* values were higher in the time 0 and 24 for the RB treatment (P < 0.05). On the other hand, there is no effect of the interaction of treatment x time in the pH, L* an and b* values. In conclusion, meat quality from lambs fed different energetic sources at 18% of DM is not influenced by the diet.
PSX-22 Evaluation of average fiber diameter measurements by FibreLux micron meter and OFDA2000
Authors: Walker John W , Pope Ronald , Preiffer Faron A
Published: December 2019

Average fiber diameter (AFD) of wool is one of the most important measurements for determining the value of wool and for improving its quality through selective breeding. A new instrument the FibreLux Micron Meter™ (FL) was compared to the OFDA2000, both of which are meant for on-farm measurement of AFD. Mid-side samples were collected, a staple removed and measured on the OFDA2000 and then on the FL. Measurements with the OFDA2000 and FL were made on-farm prior to shearing. The same staple was taken to the laboratory and measured on the Laser Scan (LS) a reference method for AFD. All measurements were compared using the IWTO-0 Appendix B (2002) procedure for comparison of methods. The OFDA2000 compared favorably to the LS. The slope did not differ from 1 (P = 0.44), there was no level dependent bias(P = 0.46), and r = 0.94. Compared to the LS the FL slope (1.15) differed from 1 (P = 0.03), and there was level dependent bias (P = 0.03), and r = 0.77. The FL underpredicted AFD in fine wools and overpredicted AFD on coarse wools. Samples that measured 15 µm by the reference method would be expected to measure 14.3 µm on the FL and samples that measured 25 µm on the LS would measure 25.7 µm on the FL. A comparison between the FL and the OFDA2000 showed that the results were similar to previously reported results from our laboratory that were conducted on samples in the lab. The FL is suitable for on-farm testing of AFD for selecting animals to improve AFD and for classing wool.
Differential Effects of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy and Botulinum Toxin-A Injection on Postburn Contractures and Gait Kinematics in Burn Children
Authors: Elnaggar Ragab K , Samhan Ahmed F , Elshafey Mohammed A
Published: December 2019

Postburn contracture is a complex and multifactorial problem that requires intensive inputs from the burn care staff. This study endeavored to evaluate the effectiveness of extracorporeal shockwave therapy and botulinum toxin-A for treating the postburn plantar flexion contracture and optimizing ankle kinematics in burn children. Thirty-eight children with burns and plantar flexion contracture were randomized to receive the standard physical rehabilitation program (control group; n = 13), unfocused extracorporeal shockwave therapy (0.2 mJ/mm2) once a week over four consecutive weeks in addition to the standard physical rehabilitation (n = 12), or botulinum toxin-A injection (0.5–2 U/kg/muscle group with maximum dose of 12 U/kg/body weight) once at entry besides the standard physical rehabilitation (n = 13). Dorsiflexion active range of motion and ankle kinematics were measured before and immediately after treatment. The posttreatment dorsiflexion active range of motion increased significantly in the extracorporeal shockwave therapy group (P = .025) and botulinum toxin-A group (P = .04) when compared to the control group. Likewise, the initial stance–dorsiflexion, stance-maximum dorsiflexion, and swing-peak dorsiflexion angle improved significantly in the extracorporeal shockwave therapy group (P ˂ .001, P = .005, and P = .002, respectively) and botulinum toxin-A group (P = .004, P = .012, and P ˂ .001, respectively) compared to the control group. No significant differences were observed between the extracorporeal shockwave therapy and botulinum toxin-A groups with respect to any of the measured variables. To conclude, extracorporeal shockwave therapy and botulinum toxin-A injection could be effectively used to treat postburn plantar flexion contracture and to optimize the ankle kinematics during walking in children, without preference for either of them.
Perioperative treatments for stage IB–IIB uterine cervical cancer
Authors: Shimada Muneaki , Tokunaga Hideki , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Ishikawa Mitsuya , Yaegashi Nobuo
Published: December 2019

Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology guidelines recommended either radical hysterectomy-based approach or the definitive radiotherapy including concurrent chemoradiotherapy as primary treatment for patients with not only stage IB1/IIA1, but also stages IB2, IIA2 and IIB. Based on pathological findings of surgical specimens, patients who underwent radical hysterectomy are divided into three recurrent-risk groups, low-risk, intermediate, and high-risk groups. Although some authors reported the usefulness of adjuvant chemotherapy for intermediate/high-risk patients, radiotherapy was standard adjuvant treatment for pathological-risk patients after radical hysterectomy. It has been uncertain whether neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical hysterectomy is beneficial for stage IB2–IIB patients. Recently, the randomized phase III study revealed that neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical hysterectomy failed to improve survival of stage IB2–IIB patients compared to concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Majority of stage IB2–IIB patients are required adjuvant radiotherapy after radical hysterectomy. The multimodality strategy consisting of radical hysterectomy followed by adjuvant radiotherapy is associated with not only impaired quality of life, but also conflicting of cost-effectiveness. Thereby, some authors investigated the significance of multimodality strategy consisting of chemotherapy before/after radical hysterectomy for stage IB2–IIB cervical cancer. Multimodality strategy consisting of radical hysterectomy/perioperative chemotherapy needs higher curability of radical hysterectomy, higher response to perioperative chemotherapy and less perioperative complications. Consequently, gynecologic oncologists have to examine the patients strictly before treatment and judge whether radical hysterectomy-based approach or definitive irradiation is appropriate for the patient with stage IB–IIB cervical cancer.
The utility of EBUS-TBNA in the diagnosis of suspected intrathoracic recurrence after esophageal cancer surgery
Authors: Chi Jun , Lian Shan-shan , Yang Qing , Luo Guang-yu , Xu Guo-Liang
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Postoperative recurrences, especially anastomotic recurrence and regional lymph node recurrence were common in patients even with curative esophageal cancer surgery. Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration is an alternative to mediastinoscopy in patients with lung cancer and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. The aim of our study is to evaluate the utility of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration in postoperative patients suffered from esophageal malignancy.

Methods

All endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration cases performed between August 2015 and December 2018 in our center were all retrospective reviewed. The patients with enlarged mediastinal lymph node and/or unknown intrathoracic mass after esophageal cancer surgery were enrolled. Final diagnoses were determined by the result of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration, second surgery and/or clinical follow-up for at least 6 months.

Results

Overall 29 patients were included in the analysis with 30 lesions sampled. No endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration related complications were observed. In total, 22 of these (73.3%) had a diagnosis of tumor recurrence, whereas eight (26.7%) had a different diagnosis: two (6.7%) had a second primary malignancy and three (10.0%) had non-neoplastic diagnosis. Cases were false-negative in 3 (10.0%) out of 30 lesions. The overall sensitivity, negative predicted value and diagnostic accuracy were 88.9, 50.0 and 90.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

Given its safety, low invasiveness, high sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy, endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration could be considered for mediastinal lymphadenopathy and intrathoracic masses of unknown origin in patients after radical esophageal cancer resection, and its strategic role in the management of these patients was confirmed.
The Combined Effects of Mass Media and Social Media on Political Perceptions and Preferences
Authors: Kleinnijenhuis Jan , van Hoof Anita M J , van Atteveldt Wouter
Published: December 2019

Changes in political perceptions and preferences may result from the combined effects of news from various media. Estimating these combined effects requires the best possible, albeit different, measures of news obtained from self-selected mass media and social media that can be linked to panel survey data concerning perceptions and preferences. For the 2017 Dutch national elections, such data is available. Political perceptions and preferences are affected by news statements in self-selected mass media on issue positions, support and criticism, real world conditions and success and failure, in accordance with the theories on agenda setting and issue ownership, social identity, retrospective voting and bandwagon effects, respectively. Combined effects emerge because many people use both mass media and social media. The latter do more than just reinforce predispositions. Social media also have a mere exposure effect, and a multistep flow effect that amplifies news about party successes and failures from self-selected mass media.
When Does the Crime-Terror Nexus Fail to Materialize? Drug Trafficking, Militants, and the State in Russia
Authors: Omelicheva Mariya Y , Markowitz Lawrence P
Published: December 2019

What are the conditions that obstruct the formation of a crime-terror nexus? To answer this question we carry out a quantitative and qualitative analysis of Russia's North Caucasus (2008–2016) where no durable crime-terror nexus materialized despite the presence of conditions conducive to the emergence of linkages between criminals and militants. We demonstrate how the sheer diversity and fluidity of violent actors, with some deeply immersed in the political, economic, and security institutions of the Russian state, fragmented the elements of a crime-terror nexus to such a degree that collaboration among them proved too difficult and costly. Our argument makes several contributions to analyses of the crime-terror nexus. First, our study illuminates the various actors within a purported nexus, demonstrating how cooperation between them may not be forthcoming. Second, our framework demonstrates how a multiplicity of the centers and agents of state power, both formal and informal, is intimately interwoven into the fragmented security landscape. Third, the diversity of the so-called terrorist and militant groups that are competing for power and resources call for rethinking and reconceptualization of what we call a “terrorist group” and the data that we use to study terrorist violence.
A Case Report of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Inhibitors in an Active Duty Service Member with Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp Resistant to Treatment
Authors: Maxon Emily , Modlin Katy , Durso Timothy A , Miletta Nathanial R
Published: December 2019

Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp represents a disease of follicular occlusion that may be worsened by tight-fitting clothing, such as the patrol cap or advanced combat helmet used by military service members. Treatment poses a challenge to the clinician, and the treatment of choice, oral retinoids, may not improve the condition sufficiently to maintain active duty status. Early treatment augmentation with tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors may improve efficacy of oral retinoids and prevent medical separation of the active duty service member.
Risk of Preterm Birth and Newborn Low Birthweight in Military Women with Increased Pregnancy-Specific Anxiety
Authors: Weis Karen L , Walker Katherine C , Chan Wenyaw , Yuan Tony T , Lederman Regina P
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Prenatal maternal anxiety and depression have been implicated as possible risk factors for preterm birth (PTB) and other poor birth outcomes. Within the military, maternal conditions account for 15.3% of all hospital bed days, and it is the most common diagnostic code for active duty females after mental disorders. The majority of women (97.6%) serving on active duty are women of childbearing potential. Understanding the impact that prenatal maternal anxiety and depression can have on PTB and low birthweight (LBW) in a military population is critical to providing insight into biological pathways that alter fetal development and growth. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of pregnancy-specific anxiety and depression on PTB and LBW within a military population.

Material and Methods

Pregnancy-specific anxiety and depression were measured for 246 pregnant women in each trimester. Individual slopes for seven different measures of pregnancy anxiety and one depression scale were calculated using linear mixed models. Logistic regression, adjusted and unadjusted models, were applied to determine the impact on PTB and LBW.

Results

For each 1/10 unit increase in the anxiety slope as it related to well-being, the risk of LBW increased by 83% after controlling for parity, PTB, and active duty status. Similarly, a 1/10 unit rise in the anxiety slope related to accepting pregnancy, labor fears, and helplessness increased the risk of PTB by 37%, 60%, and 54%, respectively.

Conclusions

Pregnancy-specific anxiety was found to significantly increase the risk of PTB and LBW in a military population. Understanding this relationship is essential in developing effective assessments and interventions. Results emphasize the importance of prenatal maternal mental health to fetal health and birth outcomes. Further research is needed to determine the specific physiological pathways that link prenatal anxiety and depression with poor birth outcomes.
Using Simulation to Train Medical Units for Deployment
Authors: Wiggins Laura L , Sarasnick Janice , Siemens Nathan G
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Recent downsizing and budgeting issues have led to challenges when attempting to train military health care reserve forces. A specific military unit collaborated with a university simulation center in order to provide more meaningful training experiences that mirrored the deployment operational experience.

Methods

The article discusses the processes used to initiate and build a simulation-based military health care training curriculum. The team consisted of an educator specializing in the use of simulation and military content experts. Rubrics for all skills were developed or found in nursing or emergency medical technician/Paramedic textbooks. Skills station training was completed using deliberate practice, where students practiced until they reached mastery level. Simulation scenarios were completed that included a primary and secondary survey improvised explosive device event. Simulation curriculum has expanded to include psychiatric scenarios using standardized patients (actors).

Results

Documentation of the training yielded greater insight into the unit’s abilities, strengths and weaknesses. After the initial 1-year time period, 87% of medical technicians and 92% of registered nurses completed training. In total, 12 out of 38 participants needed additional support. The participants reported through the Debriefing Assessment for Simulation in Healthcare tool that they enjoyed and valued the meaningful training.

Conclusion

Training using simulation has been invaluable to improving team cohesiveness. Building a training curriculum has generated a new perspective on ways in which military units may train and assess the strengths and opportunities of the unit. The ability to see participants in action allowed for a clearer understanding of the knowledge and skill each participant actually possessed versus what was assumed. The information obtained was invaluable to leadership in determining the true readiness of the unit for deployment. The authors offer the scenarios, lesson plans, and curriculum that they developed to other units that are interested in the training.
The case for strangulation in low-mass hosts: DDO 113
Authors: Garling Christopher T , Peter Annika H G , Kochanek Christopher S , Sand David J , Crnojević Denija
Published: December 2019

We investigate the case for environmental quenching of the Fornax-mass satellite DDO 113, which lies only 9 kpc in projection from its host, the Large-Magellanic-Cloud-mass galaxy NGC 4214. DDO 113 was quenched about 1 Gyr ago and is virtually gas-free, while analogs in the field are predominantly star-forming and gas-rich. We use deep imaging obtained with the Large Binocular Telescope to show that DDO 113 exhibits no evidence of tidal disruption to a surface brightness of μV ∼ 29 mag arcsec−2, based on both unresolved emission and resolved stars. Mass-analogs of DDO 113 in Illustris-1 with similar hosts, small projected separations, and no significant tidal stripping first fell into their host halo 2–6 Gyr ago, showing that tidal features (or lack thereof) can be used to constrain infall times in systems where there are few other constraints on the orbit of the satellite. With the infall time setting the clock for environmental quenching mechanisms, we investigate the plausibility of several such mechanisms. We find that strangulation, the cessation of cold gas inflows, is likely the dominant quenching mechanism for DDO 113, requiring a time-averaged mass-loading factor of η = 6–11 for star-formation-driven outflows that is consistent with theoretical and observational constraints. Motivated by recent numerical work, we connect DDO 113’s strangulation to the presence of a cool circumgalactic medium (CGM) around NGC 4214. This discovery shows that the CGM of low-mass galaxies can affect their satellites significantly and motivates further work on understanding the baryon cycle in low-mass galaxies.
Search for 7Be in the outbursts of four recent novae
Authors: Molaro P , Izzo L , Bonifacio P , Hernanz M , Selvelli P , della Valle M
Published: December 2019

Following the recent detection of 7Be ii in the outburst spectra of classical novae, we report the search for this isotope in the outbursts of four recent bright novae by means of high-resolution Ultraviolet and Visual Echelle Spectrograph (UVES) observations. The 7Be ii λλ313.0583, 313.1228 nm doublet resonance lines are detected in the high-velocity components of Nova Mus 2018 and ASASSN-18fv during outbursts. However, 7Be ii is not detected in ASASSN-17hx and possibly not in Nova Cir 2018, which shows that 7Be is not always ejected in the thermonuclear runaway. Taking into account the 7Be decay, we find X(7Be)/X(H) ≈ 1.5 × 10−5 and 2.2 × 10−5 in Nova Mus 2018 and ASASSN-18fv, respectively. A value of 7Be/H ≈ 2 × 10−5 is found in five out of the seven extant measurements, and it can be considered as a typical 7Be yield for novae. However, this value is almost one order of magnitude larger than predicted by current theoretical models. We argue that the variety of high 7Be/H abundances could be the result of a higher than solar content of 3He in the donor star. The cases with 7Be not detected might be related to the small mass of the white dwarf (WD) or to relatively little mixing with the core material of the WD. The 7Be/H, or 7Li/H, abundance is ≈ 4 dex above meteoritic abundance, thus confirming the novae as the main sources of 7Li in the Milky Way.
HD 93795: a late-B supergiant star with a square circumstellar nebula
Authors: Gvaramadze V V , Kniazev A Y , Castro N , Katkov I Y
Published: December 2019

We report the discovery of a square axisymmetric circumstellar nebula around the emission-line star HD 93795 in the archival Spitzer Space Telescope 24 $\rm{\mu m}$ data. We classify HD 93795 as a B9 Ia star using optical spectra obtained with the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT). A spectral analysis carried out with the stellar atmosphere code fastwind indicates that HD 93795 only recently left the main sequence and is evolving redward for the first time. We discuss possible scenarios for the origin of the nebula and suggest that HD 93795 was originally a binary system and that the nebula was formed because of the merger of the binary components. We also discuss a discrepancy between distance estimates for HD 93795 based on the Gaia data and the possible membership of this star of the Car OB1 association, and conclude that HD 93795 could be at the same distance as Car OB1.
DDIS-18. NANOCELL-MEDIATED DELIVERY OF MIR-34A COUNTERACTS TEMOZOLOMIDE RESISTANCE IN GLIOBLASTOMA
Authors: Babar Khan Muhammad , Ruggieri Rosamaria , Tran Nhan , Sarkaria Jann , MacDiarmid Jennifer , Brahmbhatt Himanshu , Boockvar John , Symons Marc
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Glioblastomas show marked intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity and are strongly resistant to both radio- and chemo-therapy, which are standard therapeutic modalities for this tumor. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have the potential to serve as effective therapeutics for glioblastoma as they modulate the activity of multiple signaling pathways.

METHODS

Glioblastoma cultures were transfected with miR-34a or control miRNA mimics to assess biological function and therapeutic potential in vitro. miR-34a was packaged into bacterially-derived nanocells and administered intravenously for delivery to orthotopic patient-derived glioblastoma xenografts in mice.

RESULTS

Overexpression of miR-34a strongly reduced the activation status of the three core signaling networks that have been found to be deregulated in the vast majority of glioblastoma tumors, the receptor tyrosine kinase, p53 and Rb networks. miR-34a transfection also inhibited the survival of multiple established glioblastoma cell lines as well as primary patient-derived xenograft cultures representing the proneural, mesenchymal and classical subtypes. Transfection of miR-34a synergized with temozolomide (TMZ) in in vitro cultures of glioblastoma cells with primary TMZ sensitivity, primary TMZ resistance and acquired TMZ resistance. Intravenous administration of bacterially-derived nanocells carrying miR-34a strongly enhanced TMZ sensitivity in an orthotopic patient-derived xenograft mouse model of glioblastoma.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-34a strongly sensitizes a wide range of glioblastoma cell cultures to TMZ, suggesting that combination therapy of TMZ with miR-34a may serve as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of glioblastoma tumors. Bacterially-derived nanocells are an effective vehicle for the delivery of miR-34a to glioblastoma tumors.
The characteristics of patients with possible familial hypercholesterolemia—screening a large payer/provider healthcare delivery system
Authors: Elis A , Leventer-Roberts M , Bachrach A , Lieberman N , Durst R , Knobler H , Balicer R
Published: December 2019

Background

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an under-diagnosed condition.

Aim

We applied standard laboratory criteria across a large longitudinal electronic medical record database to describe cross-sectional population with possible FH.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of Clalit Health Services members. Subjects who met the General Population MED-PED laboratory criteria, excluding: age <10 years, documentation of thyroid, liver, biliary or autoimmune diseases, a history of chronic kidney disease stage 3 or greater, the presence of urine protein >300 mg/l, HDL-C>80 mg/dl, active malignancy or pregnancy at the time of testing were considered possible FH. Demographic and clinical characteristics are described at time of diagnosis and at a single index date following diagnosis to estimate the burden on the healthcare system. The patient population is also compared to the general population.

Results

The study cohort included 12 494 subjects with out of over 4.5 million members of Clalit Health Services. The estimated prevalence of FH in Israel was found to be 1:285. These patients are notably positive for, and have a family history of, cardiovascular disease and risk factors. For most of them the LDL-C levels are not controlled, and only a quarter of them are medically treated.

Conclusions

By using the modified MED-PED criteria in a large electronic database, patients with possible FH can be identified enabling early intervention and treatment.
Mass distribution for toral eigenfunctions via Bourgain’s de-randomization
Authors: Sartori Andrea
Published: December 2019

We study the mass distribution of Laplacian eigenfunctions at Planck scale for the standard flat torus $\mathbb{T}^2=\mathbb{R}^2/\mathbb{Z}^2$. By averaging over the ball centre, we use Bourgain’s de-randomization to compare the mass distribution of toral eigenfunctions to the mass distribution of random waves in growing balls around the origin. We then classify all possible limiting distributions and their variances. Moreover, we show that, even in the ‘generic’ case, the mass might not equidistribute at Planck scale. Finally, we give necessary and sufficient conditions so that the mass of ‘generic’ eigenfunctions equidistributes at Planck scale in almost all balls.
Multidimensional sleep health and subsequent health-care costs and utilization in older women
Authors: Ensrud Kristine E , Kats Allyson M , Schousboe John T , Langsetmo Lisa , Vo Tien N , Blackwell Terri L , Buysse Daniel J , Ancoli-Israel Sonia , Stone Katie L
Published: December 2019

Study Objectives

Determine the association of poor multidimensional sleep health with health-care costs and utilization.

Methods

We linked 1,459 community-dwelling women (mean age 83.6 years) participating in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures Year 16 visit (2002–2004) with their Medicare claims. Five dimensions of sleep health (satisfaction, daytime sleepiness, timing, latency, and duration) were assessed by self-report. The number of impaired dimensions was expressed as a score (range 0–5). Total direct health-care costs and utilization were ascertained during the subsequent 36 months.

Results

Mean (SD) total health-care costs/year (2017 dollars) increased in a graded manner across the sleep health score ranging from $10,745 ($15,795) among women with no impairment to up to $15,332 ($22,810) in women with impairment in three to five dimensions (p = 0.01). After adjustment for age, race, and enrollment site, women with impairment in three to five dimensions vs. no impairment had greater mean total costs (cost ratio [CR] 1.34 [95% CI = 1.13 to 1.60]) and appeared to be at higher risk of hospitalization (odds ratio (OR) 1.31 [95% CI = 0.96 to 1.81]). After further accounting for number of medical conditions, functional limitations, and depressive symptoms, impairment in three to five sleep health dimensions was not associated with total costs (CR 1.02 [95% CI = 0.86 to 1.22]) or hospitalization (OR 0.91 [95% CI = 0.65 to 1.28]). Poor multidimensional sleep health was not related to outpatient costs or risk of skilled nursing facility stay.

Conclusions

Older women with poor sleep health have higher subsequent total health-care costs largely attributable to their greater burden of medical conditions, functional limitations, and depressive symptoms.