bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effectiveness of vehicle emission regulations on improving perinatal health: a population-based accountability study
Authors: Willis Mary D , Hill Elaine L , Kile Molly L , Carozza Susan , Hystad Perry
Published: July 2020

Background

Since the 1990s, extensive regulations to reduce traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) have been implemented, yet the effectiveness of these regulations has not been assessed with respect to improving infant health. In this study, we evaluate how infant health risks associated with maternal residences near highways during pregnancy have changed over time.

Methods

We created a population-based retrospective birth cohort with geocoded residential addresses in Texan metropolitan areas from 1996 through 2009 (n = 2 259 411). We compared term birthweight (37–42 weeks of gestation) among maternal residences <300 m from a highway (high TRAP exposure) (n = 394 346) and 500–3500 m from a highway (comparison group) (n = 1 865 065). We implemented linear regressions to evaluate interactions between high TRAP exposure and birth year, adjusting for demographics, socioeconomic status and neighbourhood context. In addition, we used propensity score matching to further reduce residual confounding.

Results

From 1996 to 2009, outdoor NO2 decreased by 51.3%, based on regulatory monitoring data in Texas. Among pregnant women who resided in the high TRAP zone during pregnancy, interaction terms between residential location and birth year show that birthweight increased by 1.1 g [95% confidence interval CI): 0.7, 1.5) in unadjusted models and 0.3 g (95% CI: 0.0, 0.6) in matched models. Time-stratified models also show decreasing impacts of living in high TRAP areas on birthweight when comparing infants born in 1996–97 with 2008–09. Sensitivity analyses with alternative exposure and control groups show consistent results.

Conclusions

Infant health risks associated with maternal residence near highways have reduced over time, paralleling regulatory measures to improve exhaust pipe emissions.
BCG Vaccine Protection Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection by Level of Exposure in The Gambia
Authors: Campbell Nicola , Verrall Ayesha J , Donkor Simon , Sutherland Jayne S , Hill Philip C
Published: July 2020

In Indonesia, BCG vaccine protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection decreased with increasing exposure to the pathogen. We aimed to validate these findings in Africa. Poisson regression was used to estimate BCG protection, stratified by pathogen exposure using an exposure score, against enzyme-linked immunospot assay conversion at 3 months in 220 Gambian case contacts. Although the interaction between BCG and exposure was not significant (P = .13), BCG protection was strongest in the lowest-exposure tertile (relative risk, 0.35 [95% confidence interval, .15–.82; P = .02] vs 0.50 [.30–.83; P = .008] and 0.71 (.45–1.13; P = .1] for the middle and highest-exposure tertiles, respectively. These results are consistent with those from Indonesia.
Hybrid volumetric-modulated arc therapy for postoperative breast cancer including regional lymph nodes: the advantage of dosimetric data and safety of toxicities
Authors: Doi Yoshiko , Nakao Minoru , Miura Hideharu , Ozawa Shuichi , Kenjo Masahiro , Nagata Yasushi
Published: July 2020

To improve the homogeneity and conformity of the irradiation dose for postoperative breast cancer including regional lymph nodes, we planned Hybrid volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT), which combines conventional tangential field mainly for the chest area and VMAT mainly for the supraclavicular area and marginal zone. In this study, we compared the dosimetric impact between traditional 3D conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) and Hybrid VMAT and observed toxicities following Hybrid VMAT. A total of 70 patients indicated between October 2016 and December 2017 were included. The prescribed dose was 50 Gy/25 fractions. For the dosimetric impact, 3DCRT and Hybrid VMAT plans were compared in each patient with respect to the dosimetric parameters. Toxicities were followed using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0. The median follow-up duration was 319 days. For the dosimetric impact, the homogeneity index (HI) and conformity index (CI) of PTV were significantly improved in the Hybrid VMAT plan compared with that in the 3DCRT plan (HI, 0.15 ± 0.07 in Hybrid VMAT vs 0.41 ± 0.19 in 3DCRT, P < 0.001; CI, 1.61 ± 0.44 in Hybrid VMAT vs 2.10 ± 0.56 in 3DCRT, P < 0.001). The mean irradiated ipsilateral lung dose was not significantly different in both plans (12.0 ± 2.4 Gy in Hybrid VMAT vs 11.8 ± 2.8 Gy in 3DCRT, P < 0.533). Regarding toxicity, there were no patients who developed ≥grade 3 acute toxicity and ≥grade 2 pneumonitis during the follow-up. Hybrid VMAT for postoperative breast cancer including regional lymph nodes was a reasonable technique that improved the homogeneity and conformity of the irradiation dose to the planning target volume while keeping the irradiation dose to organs at risk to a minimum.
Health diplomacy across borders: the case of yellow fever and COVID-19
Authors: Vanderslott Samantha , Marks Tatjana
Published: July 2020

We provide an overview of disease control across borders through the example of yellow fever, exploring different public health interventions and arrangements for international cooperation. From quarantine to country vaccine entry requirements our paper discusses the implications for health diplomacy in the context of COVID-19.
COVID-19 and dengue co-infection in a returning traveller
Authors: Epelboin Loïc , Blondé Renaud , Nacher Mathieu , Combe Patrice , Collet Louis
Published: July 2020

COVID-19 and dengue co-infection in a returning traveller
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in commercial passenger aircraft and cruise ship wastewater: a surveillance tool for assessing the presence of COVID-19 infected travellers
Authors: Ahmed Warish , Bertsch Paul M , Angel Nicola , Bibby Kyle , Bivins Aaron , Dierens Leanne , Edson Janette , Ehret John , Gyawali Pradip , Hamilton Kerry A , Hosegood Ian , Hugenholtz Philip , Jiang Guangming , Kitajima Masaaki , Sichani Homa T , Shi Jiahua , Shimko Katja M , Simpson Stuart L , Smith Wendy J M , Symonds Erin M , Thomas Kevin V , Verhagen Rory , Zaugg Julian , Mueller Jochen F
Published: July 2020

Background

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can be an important source of information for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) management during and after the pandemic. Currently, governments and transportation industries around the world are developing strategies to minimize SARS-CoV-2 transmission associated with resuming activity. This study investigated the possible use of SARS-CoV-2 RNA wastewater surveillance from airline and cruise ship sanitation systems and its potential use as a COVID-19 public health management tool.

Methods

Aircraft and cruise ship wastewater samples (n = 21) were tested for SARS-CoV-2 using two virus concentration methods, adsorption–extraction by electronegative membrane (n = 13) and ultrafiltration by Amicon (n = 8), and five assays using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and RT-droplet digital PCR (RT-ddPCR). Representative qPCR amplicons from positive samples were sequenced to confirm assay specificity.

Results

SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in samples from both aircraft and cruise ship wastewater; however concentrations were near the assay limit of detection. The analysis of multiple replicate samples and use of multiple RT-qPCR and/or RT-ddPCR assays increased detection sensitivity and minimized false-negative results. Representative qPCR amplicons were confirmed for the correct PCR product by sequencing. However, differences in sensitivity were observed among molecular assays and concentration methods.

Conclusions

The study indicates that surveillance of wastewater from large transport vessels with their own sanitation systems has potential as a complementary data source to prioritize clinical testing and contact tracing among disembarking passengers. Importantly, sampling methods and molecular assays must be further optimized to maximize detection sensitivity. The potential for false negatives by both wastewater testing and clinical swab testing suggests that the two strategies could be employed together to maximize the probability of detecting SARS-CoV-2 infections amongst passengers.
Urology Individual Critical Task List: Creation and Validation of a Simulation Curriculum
Authors: Hertz Alexandria M , Devasahayam Rebekah , Brand Timothy C , Caras Ronald J
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Individual critical task lists (ICTLs) are skills identified by the U.S. Army for the maintenance of combat readiness in each military occupational specialty, including physicians. These lists vary by medical and surgical specialties and are being utilized by leaders to determine individual deployment capability. The lists for urologists include broader tasks that are not routinely performed in a urology practice. Our goal was to create a simulation curriculum to train urologists and to perform validation testing.

Materials and Methods

Urology staff and residents at a single military treatment facility underwent a simulation event of urology ICTLs: chest tube, needle decompression, intubation, cricothyroidotomy, and extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma. The simulation was broken down into a pretest, cognitive acquisition, in-person training with subject matter experts for skills acquisition, and a posttest. Content validity questionnaires were administered to participants after the training session. Cognitive acquisition consisted of a series of videos demonstrating task execution and in-person demonstration of tasks and clinical scenarios of when they would be needed. In-person simulation was performed on training mannequins and a sonography simulation trainer.

Results

There were a total of nine participants: three residents and six staff urologists, ranging from postgraduate year 2 to more than 10 years out of residency. The total simulation time was 120 min, including 30 min for pretest and viewing of videos. Knowledge-based questions improved from pretest to posttest significantly (mean of 1.2 to 0.1, P < .001). Confidence performing tasks improved significantly on all tasks (P ≤ .01). All participants felt the simulation to be beneficial and had more comfort with the tasks.

Conclusions

The novel urology ICTL curriculum using simulation is a feasible and well-received way to keep competency on these tasks and maintain readiness. Face and content validity was established for the urology ICTL simulation curriculum, and the curriculum is exportable to equip urologists at other facilities for the urology ICTLs and for deployments, where life-saving interventions may be necessary from urologists that may be outside their ordinary scope of practice.
Long-Term Outcomes of Thoracic Trauma in U.S. Service Members Involved in Combat Operations
Authors: Hughes Stephen M , Borders Charles W , Aden James K , Sjulin Tyson J , Morris Michael J
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Nearly 10% of all combat injuries during the most recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan involve thoracic trauma. The long-term outcomes of these combat-related injuries with respect to lung function have not been fully evaluated. Limited research in civilian polytrauma patients have shown significant obstructive physiology in nearly half of their population without clear etiology. We sought to further characterize the extent to which these active duty service members (ADSM) are chronically affected by their thoracic injuries.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review and analysis of ADSM who sustained thoracic injuries while deployed in support combat operations from 2003 to 2013. Using the Department of Defense Trauma Registry, 2,049 patients were found to have sustained thoracic trauma during these conflicts, of which we were able to identify 298 patients with postinjury pulmonary function testing (PFT) available for analysis. Following standardization of these tests using the established reference values, PFT was compared to a representative population of ADSM. Additional analysis was completed to detect incidence of abnormal PFTs when compared to both type of injury (burn, blunt, penetrating, and other) and also Injury Severity Score.

Results

In our patient population, there was a significant increase in abnormal PFTs when compared to a representative population. Of these, 31.8% of patients displayed obstructive physiology versus 3.7% in the control (P < 0.001), 24.5% displayed restrictive or restrictive pattern (those without full lung volumes available utilizing forced vital capacity) versus 4.9% (P < 0.0001), and 7.9% displaying mixed pattern. Further, increasing rates of abnormal PFTs were identified in comparison to Injury Severity Score (odds ratio 1.03). There was no significant increase in abnormal PFTs when stratified by type of injury. Finally, there was no significant change identified in pulmonary function before and after injury in our limited population of 19 patients.

Conclusions

There is a significant increase in the percent of abnormal PFTs in ADSM following thoracic injury when compared to patients with similar risk factors and baseline health. It is unclear why the rates of obstruction are high in our population as previous research has not definitively shown increased rates of asthma in previously deployed, uninjured ADSM; however, this finding is consistent with limited previous research in civilian trauma patients. Further research into the long-term outcomes of thoracic trauma and occupational exposures of combat is paramount for improved outcomes going forward.
Total Joint Arthroplasty Volume in the Military Health System
Authors: Anderson Ashley B , Balazs George C , Brooks Daniel I , Dickens Jonathan F , Potter Benjamin K
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The relationship between volume and outcome of total knee arthroplasties is a concern in both the civilian and military patient populations. We sought to compare surgeons and hospital procedure volumes performed on military service members and define factors leading to increased civilian referrals.

Materials and Methods

The Military Health System Data Repository (MDR) contains patient information on all healthcare beneficiary encounters, including care provided both in Military Health System (MHS) facilities and in civilian network facilities. The Military Analysis and Reporting Tool (M2) queried the MDR for all patients between 2011 and 2015 with a CPT code for hip or knee arthroplasty associated with a provider HIPAA taxonomy code for orthopedic surgery. M2 enrollee encounters were used to calculate the total number of arthroplasty procedures performed by both military and civilian orthopedic surgeons on MHS enrollees as well as the incidence rate of arthroplasty procedures. Logistic regression was used to predict which cases were more likely to have been treated at military treatment facilities using patient gender, sponsor service branch, age, and beneficiary category.

Results

During the study period, a total of 12,627 military facility arthroplasty cases and a total of 142,637 civilian facility arthroplasty cases were performed on TRICARE enrolled patients. The total number of military surgeons performing arthroplasty on TRICARE enrolled patients was 323, while the total number of civilian surgeons performing arthroplasty was 10,245 during the same time period; the number of military surgeons performing arthroplasty on active duty patients was 176, and the total number of civilian surgeons performing arthroplasty on military patients was 1045. Overall, including retirees and activity duty service members, more procedures are performed by civilian network surgeons than military surgeons in all states. In an adjusted model, male patients were slightly more likely to receive care at an military treatment facilitie than female patients (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.41–1.53). Furthermore, with respect to service, patients with Air Force (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.02–1.15) and Navy sponsors (OR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.51–1.71) were more likely to receive military care than patients with Army sponsors.

Conclusions

Based on our findings, we recommend the MHS focus attention to recapturing the Army active duty male patients who are more likely to receive care outside of the military healthcare network. Further analysis of the many factors including, but not limited to, referral process for total joint arthroplasty, time to procedure, and facility resources is required, in addition to assessing patient outcomes following the procedures.
Strong chemical tagging with APOGEE: 21 candidate star clusters that have dissolved across the Milky Way disc
Authors: Price-Jones Natalie , Bovy Jo , Webb Jeremy J , Allende Prieto Carlos , Beaton Rachael , Brownstein Joel R , Cohen Roger E , Cunha Katia , Donor John , Frinchaboy Peter M , García-Hernández D A , Lane Richard R , Majewski Steven R , Nidever David L , Roman-Lopes Alexandre
Published: July 2020

Chemically tagging groups of stars born in the same birth cluster is a major goal of spectroscopic surveys. To investigate the feasibility of such strong chemical tagging, we perform a blind chemical tagging experiment on abundances measured from APOGEE survey spectra. We apply a density-based clustering algorithm to the 8D chemical space defined by [Mg/Fe], [Al/Fe], [Si/Fe], [K/Fe], [Ti/Fe], [Mn/Fe], [Fe/H], and [Ni/Fe], abundances ratios which together span multiple nucleosynthetic channels. In a high-quality sample of 182 538 giant stars, we detect 21 candidate clusters with more than 15 members. Our candidate clusters are more chemically homogeneous than a population of non-member stars with similar [Mg/Fe] and [Fe/H], even in abundances not used for tagging. Group members are consistent with having the same age and fall along a single stellar-population track in log g versus Teff space. Each group’s members are distributed over multiple kpc, and the spread in their radial and azimuthal actions increases with age. We qualitatively reproduce this increase using N-body simulations of cluster dissolution in Galactic potentials that include transient winding spiral arms. Observing our candidate birth clusters with high-resolution spectroscopy in other wavebands to investigate their chemical homogeneity in other nucleosynthetic groups will be essential to confirming the efficacy of strong chemical tagging. Our initially spatially compact but now widely dispersed candidate clusters will provide novel limits on chemical evolution and orbital diffusion in the Galactic disc, and constraints on star formation in loosely bound groups.
Hyper-Eddington accretion flows on to black holes accompanied by powerful outflows
Authors: Takeo Eishun , Inayoshi Kohei , Mineshige Shin
Published: July 2020

We perform two-dimensional radiation hydrodynamical simulations of accretion flows on to black holes (BHs) at the nuclei of protogalaxies, and study the impact of mechanical and radiative feedback on rapid growth of BHs. The outflows deposit mass, momentum, and energy into the surrounding medium and prevent mass accretion on to the BH, resulting in the reduction of radiative output. We find that when the BH is embedded in a dense gas core, ionizing radiation attenuated by inefficient BH feeding owing to mechanical feedback hardly affects the gas dynamics at the BH gravitational sphere of influence, from which intense inflows of neutral gas occur at rates substantially exceeding the Eddington limit without impeded by photoionization and heating. Since mechanical power of outflows driven by the rapidly accreting BH is sufficiently strong, bipolar outflows completely evacuate the surrounding gas in the polar region but mass inflows through the equatorial region maintain the BH accretion rate as high as $\sim 300\!-\!10^3~\dot{M}_{\rm Edd}$, which is reduced by one order of magnitude from those with radiative feedback alone. Furthermore, we find that the critical gas density required for rapid accretion is lower by a factor of ∼3, when mechanical feedback is considered. By studying the dependence on outflow parameters (e.g. opening angle, mass loading degree into outflows, velocity), we conclude that contrary to naive expectation, the stronger outflow leads to the transition to rapid accretion more efficiently. Rapidly growing BHs inject mechanical power with $\sim 0.1\!-\!1{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the radiative luminosity into their host galaxy scales, which is used for cosmological simulations.
Enhancement of the tidal disruption event rate in galaxies with a nuclear star cluster: from dwarfs to ellipticals
Authors: Pfister Hugo , Volonteri Marta , Dai Jane Lixin , Colpi Monica
Published: July 2020

We compute the tidal disruption event (TDE) rate around local massive black holes (MBHs) with masses as low as $2.5\times 10^4\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$, thus probing the dwarf regime for the first time. We select a sample of 37 galaxies for which we have the surface stellar density profile, a dynamical estimate of the mass of the MBH, and 6 of which, including our Milky Way, have a resolved nuclear star cluster (NSC). For the Milky Way, we find a total TDE rate of ${\sim}10^{-4}\, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}$ when taking the NSC in account, and ${\sim}10^{-7} \, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}$ otherwise. TDEs are mainly sourced from the NSC for light (${\lt}3\times 10^{10}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$) galaxies, with a rate of few $10^{-5}\, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}$, and an enhancement of up to two orders of magnitude compared to non-nucleated galaxies. We create a mock population of galaxies using different sets of scaling relations to explore trends with galaxy mass, taking into account the nucleated fraction of galaxies. Overall, we find a rate of few $10^{-5}\, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}$ which drops when galaxies are more massive than $10^{11}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$ and contain MBHs swallowing stars whole and resulting in no observable TDE.
A search for the modern counterparts of the Far Eastern guest stars 369 CE, 386 CE and 393 CE
Authors: Hoffmann Susanne M , Vogt Nikolaus
Published: July 2020

In this study, we apply our previously developed method to investigate ancient transient sightings in order to derive consequences for modern astrophysical problems. We present case studies of three observations of so-called guest stars in the fourth century CE, which lasted several months each. These three observations had been discussed and suggested as possible supernovae, but slow novae are also viable alternatives. Our careful re-interpretation of the historical texts and the currently known objects in the given fields shed new light on this topic. In particular, for the two events in 386 and 393 CE we suggest possible supernova identifications, while in all three cases there are interesting candidates for past classical or recurrent nova eruptions among known cataclysmic variables (CVs) and/or symbiotic stars. We suggest that the transient of 369 can be explained as a classical and possibly recurrent nova instead of a supernova. The most plausible candidates are BZ Cam, a CV with a possible nova shell, or CQ Dra, a naked-eye multiple system perhaps able to permit an overwhelmingly bright nova with day-time visibility.
The Current Status of Research on Gibberellin Biosynthesis
Authors: Hedden Peter
Published: July 2020

Gibberellins are produced by all vascular plants and several fungal and bacterial species that associate with plants as pathogens or symbionts. In the 60 years since the first experiments on the biosynthesis of gibberellic acid in the fungus Fusarium fujikuroi, research on gibberellin biosynthesis has advanced to provide detailed information on the pathways, biosynthetic enzymes and their genes in all three kingdoms, in which the production of the hormones evolved independently. Gibberellins function as hormones in plants, affecting growth and differentiation in organs in which their concentration is very tightly regulated. Current research in plants is focused particularly on the regulation of gibberellin biosynthesis and inactivation by developmental and environmental cues, and there is now considerable information on the molecular mechanisms involved in these processes. There have also been recent advances in understanding gibberellin transport and distribution and their relevance to plant development. This review describes our current understanding of gibberellin metabolism and its regulation, highlighting the more recent advances in this field.
A familial cluster of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by one family member during his asymptomatic incubation period
Authors: Sang Hao , Cui Yan , Lai Xiaobin , Zhang Yuyan , Kong Lingna , Jiang Xiaoli , Liu Hui , Zhang Jie , Ye Jun , Gu Wenchao , Fang Chenfei , Zhang Huansheng
Published: July 2020

An ongoing outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread in the world, whereas asymptomatic carriers may also play a critical role in the pandemic. We report a familial cluster of COVID-19 caused by one family member before his onset of illness, indicating that it seems to be potentially infectious during the incubation period, even earlier than we expected. Close contact, especially in a small enclosed space, might be the cause of familial transmission. The unsynchronized changes in the clinical symptoms and COVID-19 nucleic acid were found in this case, so consecutive nucleic acid detection of pretty suspected cases was recommended. Family members, especially of whom the confirmed cases contacted with since one incubation period before onset rather than 2 days before onset, should be regarded as close contact and centrally isolated in case of asymptomatic infection already existed in the family.
Skyrmions, Tetrahedra and Magic Numbers
Authors: Manton Nicholas S
Published: July 2020

Michael Atiyah’s interest in Skyrmions and their relationship to monopoles and instantons is recalled. Some approximate models of Skyrmions with large baryon numbers are then considered. Skyrmions having particularly strong binding are clusters of unit baryon number Skyrmions arranged as truncated tetrahedra. Their baryon numbers, $B = 4 \,, 16 \,, 40 \,, 80 \,, 140 \,, 224$, are the tetrahedral numbers multiplied by four, agreeing with the magic proton and neutron numbers $2 \,, 8 \,, 20 \,, 40 \,, 70 \,, 112$ occurring in the nuclear shell model in the absence of strong spin-orbit coupling.
The management of neuropsychiatric lupus in the 21st century: still so many unmet needs?
Authors: Govoni Marcello , Hanly John G
Published: July 2020

Neuropsychiatric (NP) events occur in the majority of patients with SLE and predominantly affect the CNS in addition to the peripheral and autonomic systems. Approximately 30% of all NP events are attributable to SLE (NPSLE) and present most frequently around the time of SLE onset. NPSLE is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and the proposed pathogenesis includes both ischaemic and neuroinflammatory mechanisms. Following diagnosis and causal attribution, the treatment of NPSLE is tailored to the type of NP event, the predominant putative pathogenic pathway and the activity and severity of the clinical event. There is a dearth of controlled clinical trials to guide management, but therapeutic options include symptomatic, antithrombotic and immunosuppressive agents that are supported by observational cohort studies. Our objective was to review what is currently known about NPSLE and to identify deficiencies in diagnostic biomarkers, novel therapies and clinical trials for this manifestation of SLE.
Variation in the pharmacokinetics of glucosamine in healthy individuals
Authors: Asthana Chhavi , Peterson Gregory M , Shastri Madhur D , Patel Rahul P
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Clinical trial data for the efficacy of glucosamine in OA are conflicting. Reportedly, Rotta-manufactured glucosamine products are more likely to be effective, and a possible explanation is greater bioavailability than other brands. Specifically, the aim was to compare the steady-state pharmacokinetics of Rotta- and non-Rotta-manufactured glucosamine products in healthy volunteers and examine the interindividual variability.

Methods

In a crossover design, healthy adult participants ingested 1500 mg/day of a Rotta (DONA powder sachets; imported by Mylan Health, Carole Park, QLD, Australia) and a non-Rotta (glucosamine sulphate 1500 mg one-a-day tablet; Blackmores, Warriewood, NSW, Australia) glucosamine product/brand individually for 6 days. Blood samples were collected immediately before and for 12 h after the ingestion of the last dose of each brand and analysed to determine plasma levels of glucosamine. The pharmacokinetic parameters at steady state [including the minimum (Css min) and maximum (Css max) plasma concentration of glucosamine, time to reach Css max post-dosing (Tss max) and area under the plasma concentration vs time curve (AUCss 0–12)] for each brand were calculated and statistically compared.

Results

Fourteen participants [mean age 35.5 years (s.d. 8.8)] were recruited (64.2% males). No significant differences were observed in the pharmacokinetic parameters between the two brands. However, for both brands, the coefficient of variation for Css min, Tss max and AUCss 0–12 exceeded 20%, indicating considerable differences in the parameters between participants. No significant association of the pharmacokinetic parameters was observed with various dosing- and participant-related variables.

Conclusion

Substantial interindividual differences in the absorption and elimination of glucosamine could be a cause of variable clinical outcomes in OA.

Trial registration

The study was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (http://www.ANZCTR.org.au/ACTRN12618000699268p.aspx), number ACTRN12618000699268p.
Elevated serum level of hepatocyte growth factor predicts development of new syndesmophytes in men with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Deminger Anna , Klingberg Eva , Nurkkala Merja , Geijer Mats , Carlsten Hans , Jacobsson Lennart T H , Forsblad-d’Elia Helena
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To study baseline serum hepatocyte growth factor (s-HGF) as a predictor of spinal radiographic progression overall and by sex and to analyse factors correlated to changes in s-HGF in patients with AS.

Methods

At baseline and the 5-year follow-up, s-HGF was analysed with ELISA. Spinal radiographs were graded according to modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spinal Score. Radiographic progression was defined as ≥2 modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spinal Score units/5 years or development of ≥1 syndesmophyte. Logistic regression analyses were used.

Results

Of 204 baseline participants, 163 (80%) completed all examinations at the 5-year follow-up (54% men). Baseline s-HGF was significantly higher in men who developed ≥1 syndesmophyte compared with non-progressors, median (interquartile range) baseline s-HGF 1551 (1449–1898) vs 1436 (1200–1569) pg/ml, P = 0.003. The calculated optimal cut-off point for baseline s-HGF ≥1520 pg/ml showed a sensitivity of 70%, a specificity of 69% and univariate odds radio (95% CI) of 5.25 (1.69, 14.10) as predictor of development of ≥1 new syndesmophyte in men. Baseline s-HGF ≥1520 pg/ml remained significantly associated with development of ≥1 new syndesmophyte in men in an analysis adjusted for the baseline variables age, smoking, presence of syndesmophytes and CRP, odds radio 3.97 (1.36, 11.60). In women, no association with HGF and radiographic progression was found. Changes in s-HGF were positively correlated with changes in ESR and CRP.

Conclusion

In this prospective cohort study elevated s-HGF was shown to be associated with development of new syndesmophytes in men with AS.
Financial officers, the municipal swap industry and the rise of risky innovations among states
Authors: Janssen Agnes
Published: July 2020

At the turn of the millennium, US states started to employ debt-related derivatives. Surprisingly, the prevalence of these instruments among states peaked soon after the first corporate scandals involving such complex financial tools. Why did states embrace swaps? I build on political and sociological arguments and posit that both the industry’s and the state’s interests must be considered. The swaps industry started marketing swaps to treasurers as part of their fee-based business model and in response to declining profits, while governments welcomed swaps as they fit the treasurers’ professional agenda. I test this argument with original data on the initial swaps adoption by US states between 1989 and 2014. The event history analysis lends support for the theory. The findings complement explanations for the rise of risky instruments among states and contribute to the literature on financialization.
“Caring for the Mine”: Women in Capitalist Accumulation in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Pérez Leda M , De la Puente Lorena
Published: July 2020

A “service provision” value chain that sustains the activities of the Las Bambas copper mine cuts across rural communities and the mining town, connected by the invisibilized work of indigenous and/or migrant women, through their maintenance of the rural homestead, or in their provision of feminized services, essential to men who work in the urban center near the mine. We argue that in this case women’s access to mining’s benefits and/or jobs in both rural and urban spaces is mediated by gender, as mining’s direct and indirect effects serve to consolidate their social reproductive roles.
Silica nanoparticles induce unfolded protein reaction mediated apoptosis in spermatocyte cells
Authors: Ren Lihua , Liu Jianhui , Wei Jialiu , Du Yefan , Zou Kaiyue , Yan Yongyang , Wang Zhihao , Zhang Linruo , Zhang Tong , Lu Hong , Zhou Xianqing , Sun Zhiwei
Published: July 2020

With increasing air pollution, silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), as a main inorganic member of PM2.5, have gained increasing attention to its reproductive toxicity. Most existing studies focused on the acute exposure, while data regarding the chronic effect of SiNPs on reproduction is limited. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the chronic toxicity of SiNPs on spermatocyte cells. The cells were continuously exposed to SiNPs for 1, 10, 20 and 30 generations at dose of 5 μg/ml SiNPs for 24 h per generation after attachment. The results showed that with the increasing generations of the exposure, SiNPs decreased the viability of spermatocyte cells, induced apoptosis and increased the level of reactive oxygen species in spermatocyte cells. Moreover, SiNPs increased the protein expression of GRP-78, p-PERK, IRE1α, ATF6 and Cleaved caspase-3 in spermatocyte cells, suggesting that SiNPs improved unfolded protein response (UPR) and apoptosis. The present results indicated that the long-term and low-dose exposure to SiNPs could induce apoptosis by triggering ROS-mediated UPR in spermatocyte cells.
Superior growth, N uptake and NH4+ tolerance in the giant bamboo Phyllostachys edulis over the broad-leaved tree Castanopsis fargesii at elevated NH4+ may underlie community succession and favor the expansion of bamboo
Authors: Zou Na , Shi Weiming , Hou Lihan , Kronzucker Herbert J , Huang Ling , Gu Hongmei , Yang Qingpei , Deng Guanghua , Yang Guangyao
Published: July 2020

The unbridled expansion of bamboo has imposed serious threats on ecosystem processes and functions. Considerable evidence indicates that bamboo invasions can alter plant-available soil nitrogen (N) pools and rates of N cycling, but the consequences of altered N availability for plant growth and community structure have thus far been poorly characterized. The primary soil-accessible N forms for most plants are ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3−), but plants differ in their ability to use the different N forms, and these differences can be related to their ecological characteristics and drive community structure. In this context, we evaluated the growth response, N uptake and interspecific competition in two subtropical species, Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houzeau (Synonym Phyllostachys heterocycla Carrière) and Castanopsis fargesii Franch., dominant species of bamboo and secondary evergreen broad-leaved forests, respectively, under changing N availability in seedlings supplied with different N concentrations and NH4+/NO3− proportions, in vermiculite culture, in a controlled environment. The results show that (i) both species display an NH4+ preference at elevated N concentrations. The growth of P. edulis seedlings was strongly enhanced at increased ratios of NH4+ to NO3− especially at higher N concentrations, but to a much lesser extent in C. fargesii. (ii) NH4+ preference at the level of N uptake in both species was confirmed by the Non-invasive Micro-test Technology and by examining 15N signatures. Phyllostachys edulis had higher NH4+ net fluxes and N concentration under NH4+ treatments than C. fargesii. (iii) NH4+ at higher concentrations caused toxicity in both species as it inhibited root growth and even caused seedling death, but P. edulis had a higher NH4+-tolerance threshold (24 mM) than C. fargesii (16 mM). (iv) When mixed-species cultures were examined in an NH4+-rich medium, the growth of C. fargesii, but not P. edulis, was significantly inhibited compared with growth in monoculture. Therefore, P. edulis exhibited stronger plasticity and adaptation to changing N availability, whereas C. fargesii had low responsiveness and capacity to acclimate to soil N changes. Phyllostachys edulis displayed a significant competitive growth advantage compared with C. fargesii on NH4+-dominated substrates.
Clinical Features and Outcome of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Neonates: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dhir Shashi Kant , Kumar Jogender , Meena Jitendra , Kumar Praveen
Published: July 2020

Objective

The objective of this study is to systematically synthesize the currently available literature on various modes of transmission (congenital, intrapartum, and postpartum), clinical features and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science until 9 June 2020. A combination of keywords and MeSH terms, such as COVID-19, coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, 2019-nCoV, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, neonates, newborn, infant, pregnancy, obstetrics, vertical transmission, maternal–foetal transmission and intrauterine transmission, were used in the search strategy. We included studies reporting neonatal outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 proven pregnancies or neonatal cases diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Results

Eighty-six publications (45 case series and 41 case reports) were included in this review. Forty-five case series reported 1992 pregnant women, of which 1125 (56.5%) gave birth to 1141 neonates. A total of 281 (25%) neonates were preterm, and caesarean section (66%) was the preferred mode of delivery. Forty-one case reports describe 43 mother-baby dyads of which 16 were preterm, 9 were low birth weight and 27 were born by caesarean section. Overall, 58 neonates were reported with SARS-CoV-2 infection (4 had a congenital infection), of which 29 (50%) were symptomatic (23 required ICU) with respiratory symptoms being the predominant manifestation (70%). No mortality was reported in SARS-CoV-2-positive neonates.

Conclusion

The limited low-quality evidence suggests that the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infections in neonates is extremely low. Unlike children, most COVID-positive neonates were symptomatic and required intensive care. Postpartum acquisition was the commonest mode of infection in neonates, although a few cases of congenital infection have also been reported.
Direct-to-consumer genomic testing
Authors: Flowers Elena , Leutwyler Heather , Shim Janet K.
Published: July 2020

Genomic testing is increasingly common in the consumer marketplace. The role of nurses in educating and counseling patients requires them to be prepared to respond to questions about the results of direct-to-consumer genomic testing. This article describes one individual's reflections upon undergoing this testing, the challenges of interpreting the results, and nursing considerations for integrating these results into clinical practice.
Comparison Between the Direct Anterior and Posterior Approaches for Total Hip Arthroplasty Performed for Femoral Neck Fracture
Authors: Cichos Kyle H. , Mabry Scott E. , Spitler Clay A. , McGwin Gerald , Quade Jonathan H. , Ghanem Elie S.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

To compare 90-day and 1-year outcomes, including mortality, of femoral neck fracture patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) by direct anterior approach (DAA) versus posterior approach (PA).

Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Setting:

Level I Trauma Center.

Patients:

One hundred forty-three consecutive intracapsular femoral neck fractures treated with THA from 2010 to 2018. The minimum follow-up was 12 months, and the average follow-up was 14.6 months (12–72 months).

Main Outcome Measures:

Postoperative outcomes, including discharge ambulation, dislocation, periprosthetic joint infection, revision THA, and mortality at 90 days and 1 year after THA.

Results:

Of the 143 THA included, 44 (30.7%) were performed by DAA while 99 (69.3%) were performed by PA. In-hospital outcomes were similar between the cohorts. Compared with DAA patients, PA patients were more likely to ambulate without assistance preinjury (88.9% vs. 72.7%, P = 0.025) and be nonambulatory at the time of discharge (27.3% vs. 11.4%, P = 0.049). There were no significant differences in 90-day and 1-year postoperative outcomes between the DAA and PA groups, including dislocation, periprosthetic joint infection, periprosthetic fracture, mechanical complications, and revision surgery. Although there was no difference in mortality rate at 90 days, at 1-year follow-up the mortality rate was lower in the DAA group (0% vs. 11.1%, P = 0.018).

Conclusions:

Performing THA by DAA provides similar benefits in regards to medical and surgical outcomes compared with the PA for displaced femoral neck fracture. However, the DAA may lead to decreased 1-year mortality rates, possibly, because of improved early ambulation capacity that is an important predictor of long-term mortality.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Adaptive Behavior and Executive Functioning in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Using a Mixed Design
Authors: Glad Danielle M. , Casnar Christina L. , Yund Brianna D. , Enderle Marie J. , Siegel Dawn H. , Basel Donald G. , Klein-Tasman Bonita P.
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) demonstrate poorer adaptive functioning compared with same-aged peers; however, there is limited research about the longitudinal pattern of adaptive behavior. The aim of this investigation was to examine parent-reported adaptive behavior of children with NF1 longitudinally beginning in early childhood and to examine relations with executive functioning.

Method:

Children with NF1 were assessed during early childhood (n = 59; aged 3–7; mean = 4.8, SD = 1.42) or school age (n = 39; aged 9–13; mean = 10.85, SD = 1.58), and a subset was seen at both time points (n = 26). The Scales of Independent Behavior—Revised was used to assess adaptive functioning, and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function—Preschool Version/Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function was used to evaluate everyday executive functioning.

Results:

Adaptive behavior in early childhood was significantly correlated with adaptive behavior at school age (with the exception of social interaction and communication skills) and was significantly poorer at school age. The frequency of difficulties increased over time for overall adaptive behavior and motor skills. Executive functioning was related to adaptive behavior cross-sectionally within early childhood and at school age and showed longitudinal predictive value over time.

Conclusion:

This research contributes to the limited NF1 adaptive behavior literature by characterizing the longitudinal pattern of adaptive behavior and relations with executive abilities.
The U-shaped association between achieved blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in elderly and younger patients
Authors: Lim Nam-Kyoo , Park Hyun-Young , Kim Won-Ho , Mancia Giuseppe , Cho Myeong-Chan
Published: July 2020

Objective:

The main objective is to assess the appropriate level of achieved SBP and DBP to prevent cardiovascular events.

Methods:

We used the National Sample Cohort from the National Health Insurance Service in Korea and analyzed data of 44 462 hypertensive patients aged 20--84 years. Achieved SBP and DBP were categorized according to average achieved SBP (<120, 120–129, 130–139, 140–149, and ≥150 mmHg) and DBP (<70, 70–79, 80–89, 90–99, and ≥100 mmHg). We examined the association between achieved BP and composite outcome including cardiovascular death, admission of stroke, myocardial infarction, or heart failure, and all-caused death in elderly aged more than 65 years and in younger patients.

Results:

After a median follow-up of 6.8 years, achieved SBP less than 120 mmHg and at least 150 mmHg in elderly and younger patients, respectively, were significantly associated with a higher risk of composite outcome than achieved SBP of 120–129 mmHg. Cox's proportional hazard analysis showed that the association between achieved SBP and risk of composite outcome and all-cause death had U-shaped relationships and identified a nadir of SBP of 135.6 and 128.9 mmHg, respectively, for composite outcome and 135.1 and 131.4 mmHg, respectively, for all-cause death in elderly and younger patients.

Conclusion:

Compared with SBP of 120–129 mmHg, not only low achieved SBP of less than 120 mmHg but also high BP are associated with risk of adverse cardiovascular event and all-cause death in both elderly and younger patients with a distinct U-shaped relationship.
High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I in women with a history of early-onset preeclampsia
Authors: Muijsers Hella E.C. , Westermann Dirk , Birukov Anna , van der Heijden Olivier W.H. , Drost José T. , Kräker Kristin , Haase Nadine , Müller Dominik N. , Herse Florian , Maas Angela H.E.M. , Dechend Ralf , Zeller Tanja , Roeleveld Nel
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Preeclampsia is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. Women with a history of preeclampsia are at risk of developing hypertension as well as ischemic heart disease. Identification of women at the highest risk is important to initiate preventive strategies. We investigated whether high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) levels are associated with a history of early-onset preeclampsia, and with hypertension in these high-risk women.

Methods:

Approximately 9–10 years after pregnancy, hs-cTnI levels were measured for 339 women of the Preeclampsia Risk Evaluation in FEMales cohort, consisting of 177 women with a history of early-onset preeclampsia and 162 women with a previous uncomplicated index pregnancy. Associations were analyzed using several statistical tests and linear regression analysis.

Results:

The median hs-cTnI levels (IQR) were 2.50 ng/l (2.30) in women with a history of early-onset preeclampsia and 2.35 ng/l (2.50) in women without a history of preeclampsia, P = 0.53. Among women with a history of early-onset preeclampsia, the hs-cTnI levels were higher in women who were hypertensive compared with their normotensive counterparts (medians 2.60 versus 2.30; P 
= 0.03). In addition, blood pressure levels increased with increasing hs-cTnI levels.

Conclusion:

We did not find a difference in hs-cTnI levels between women with and without a history of early-onset preeclampsia. Nonetheless, hs-cTnI levels were statistically significantly higher in current hypertensive women with a history of preeclampsia compared with their normotensive counterparts. Therefore, hs-cTnI levels might improve risk prediction for women at the highest risk of cardiovascular disease.