bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe bronchoconstriction as part of a suspected anaphylactic reaction in a dog following administration of gadobutrol
Authors: Tucker Philippa Kate , Macfarlane Paul
Published: April 2020

A four‐year‐and‐three‐month‐old Jack Russell terrier presented for investigation of acute‐onset paraplegia, with an MRI performed under general anaesthesia. Following administration of a gadobutrol contrast medium, apnoea, cyanosis, resistance to ventilation, hypotension and tachycardia were observed. An anaphylactic reaction was suspected, characterised by severe bronchoconstriction and cardiovascular collapse. This was treated with multiple isotonic crystalloid fluid boluses, intermittent positive pressure ventilation, terbutaline and cessation of general anaesthesia. Following recovery from general anaesthesia, continuous positive airway pressure and later high‐flow nasal oxygen therapy were needed to treat severe hypoxaemia. Treatment of the acute anaphylactic reaction was successful; however, the dog was euthanased due to progressive neurological disease.
The role of local cavity tree density in the selection of den sites by female fishers (Pekania pennanti) in northern Minnesota
Authors: Berg Sergey S. , Erb John D. , Spaid Vincent T. , Dewey Daniel L. , Coy Pamela L. , Sampson Barry A. , Fieberg John R. , Arnold Todd W. , Forester James D.
Published: April 2020

Although several studies have evaluated fisher (Pekania pennanti (Erxleben, 1777)) selection of den structures across their natural range, the role of other nearby trees with suitable cavities that can be used by female fishers for subsequent maternal dens has not been explored. We used conditional logistic regression to describe selection of natal and maternal dens by female fishers in northern Minnesota, United States, and to determine if the density of other cavity trees surrounding a specific tree influences this selection. Our results indicate that cavity density was an important predictor of whether a tree was used as a den site by female fishers. The apparent condition (i.e., live, declining, or dead) and diameter at breast height of the cavity tree itself were also important for selection. These results affirm the need to retain large-diameter cavity trees, illustrate the potential benefits of retaining them in high-density patches, and caution against creating a landscape with highly dispersed denning options.
On a first order transition in QCD with up, down and strange quarks
Authors: Guo Xiao-Yu , Heo Yonggoo , Lutz Matthias F. M.
Published: April 2020

We consider the quark-mass dependence of the baryon octet and decuplet ground state masses. It is predicted that QCD dynamics implies a first order transition when increasing the strange quark mass from its chiral limit towards its physical value. Our claim relies on a global fit to the available QCD lattice data on such baryon masses. Quantitative results based on an application of the chiral SU(3) Lagrangian at N$$^3$$3LO are discussed. We predict an anomalous sector of QCD where stable baryonic matter would be composed of $$\varLambda $$Λ or $$\bar{\varLambda }$$Λ¯ particles rather than nucleons and anti-nucleons.
Medicaid Managed Care's Effects on Costs, Access, and Quality: An Update
Authors: Franco Montoya Daniela , Chehal Puneet Kaur , Adams E. Kathleen
Published: April 2020

Medicaid is integral to public health because it insures one in five Americans and half of the nation's births. Nearly two-thirds of all Medicaid recipients are currently enrolled in a health maintenance organization (HMO). Proponents of HMOs argue that they can lower costs while maintaining access and quality. We critically reviewed 32 studies on Medicaid managed care (2011–2019). Authors reported state-specific cost savings and instances of increased access or quality with implementation or redesign of Medicaid managed-care programs. Studies on high-risk populations (e.g., disabled) found improvements in quality specific to a state or a high-risk population. A unique model of managed care (i.e., the Oregon Health Plan) was associated with reduced costs and improved access and quality, but results varied by comparison state. New trends in the literature focused on analysis of auto-assignment algorithms, provider networks, and plan quality. More analysis of costs jointly with access/quality is needed, as is research on managing long-term care among elderly and disabled Medicaid recipients.
A Strength-Based Intervention to Increase Participation in Leisure Activities in Children with Neuropsychiatric Disabilities: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ullenhag Anna , Granlund Mats , Almqvist Lena , Krumlinde-Sundholm Lena
Published: April 2020

The aim is to evaluate the feasibility of an intervention model with a client-centered goal-directed approach with the aim to enhance the child’s participation in leisure activities, self-efficacy, and activity performance. A pilot intervention using a client-centered goal-directed approach and a single-subject design was performed. Two Swedish boys with neuropsychiatric diagnosis aged 12 and 14 years old were included, and 3 leisure activity goals were identified. The intervention was carried out over 8 weeks and took place in the adolescent’s everyday environment and at the pediatric rehabilitation center. The goal attainment of participation goals (GAS), the perceived performance ability according to the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), the self-efficacy, and the participants’ satisfaction were used to study the effect. The participants succeeded in attaining their leisure goals as specified by the GAS by achieving +2 on one goal and +1 on the other two goals. They estimated higher performance ability and self-efficacy in their goal performance. Participants, parents, and therapists were overall satisfied and found the intervention to be applicable and helpful in optimizing leisure participation. The intervention model with a client-centered goal-directed approach in which participants define their own leisure activity goals appears to be effective in increasing participation in leisure activities.
The LncRNA H19 rs217727 Polymorphism Is Associated with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Susceptibility in Iranian Population
Authors: Ghapanchi Jannan , Ranjbar Zahra , Mokhtari Mohammad Javad , Koohpeima Fatemeh , Derakhshan Maryam , Khademi Bijan , Ghaderi Hamid , Sheikhbahaei Shamsoddinali , Aliabadi Ehsan
Published: April 2020

Lack of protein‐coding capacity is a main characteristic of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) which, as molecular biomarkers, have found a novel pharmacological application in cancer and are reported to be important regulators of gene expression. H19 is reportedly involved in cancer progression and tumorigenesis. One of the most common types of head and neck cancers is oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the correlation of OSCC susceptibility with H19 gene in an Iranian population. This research was performed on 400 subjects of both sexes referred to the Namazi Hospital affiliated with the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS). Individuals aged 15‐88 years were divided into two groups: pathologically diagnosed patients with new‐onset OSCC and healthy controls. After written and informed consent was obtained from the individuals, genomic DNA was extracted. The tetra‐primer ARMS‐PCR technique was performed for DNA genotyping by the use of specific primer pairs. The susceptibility of OSCC and H19 gene polymorphism sites was further analyzed (rs217727 and rs2107425). The allele and genotype frequencies of H19 rs2107425 polymorphism were similar between OSCC cases and controls. The H19 rs217727T allele frequency was significantly higher in OSCC cases (P = 0.002), and the polymorphism of H19 rs217727 was associated with OSCC susceptibility in the codominant (OR = 6.04, 95%CI = 1.70 − 21.42, P = 0.001 for TT genotype), dominant (OR = 1.62, 95%CI = 1.08 − 2.43, P = 0.01), and recessive (OR = 5.32, 95%CI = 1.51 − 18.69, P = 0.003) models. This study showed that rs217727 and OSCC susceptibility were statistically correlated in the Iranian population.
Noncoding RNAs as Biomarkers for Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Wang Lijie , Jin Yuanzhe
Published: April 2020

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS), consisting of acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina, is the most dangerous and fatal form of coronary heart disease. Acute coronary syndrome has sudden onset and rapid development, which may lead to malignant life‐threatening conditions at any time. Therefore, early detection and diagnosis are critical for patients with ACS. Recent studies have found that noncoding RNA is of great significance in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we summarized recent data on circulating noncoding RNAs (including microRNA, long noncoding RNA, and circular RNA) as diagnostic and prognostic markers in ACS including acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina. Specifically, microRNAs (miRNAs) as diagnostic markers are divided into three types: miRNAs of increased expression in ACS, miRNAs of decreased expression in ACS, and miRNAs of contradictory expression in ACS. Moreover, we described these miRNAs of increased expression in ACS based on miRNAs family. This review may result in a great guidance of noncoding RNAs as biomarkers for ACS in clinical practice.
Facile Method for Obtaining Gold-Coated Polyester Surfaces with Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Drobota M. , Butnaru M. , Vornicu N. , Plopa O. , Aflori M.
Published: April 2020

The antimicrobial and antifungal activity of polymers used in medical devices has been extensively studied due to the growing impact of hospital-related infections in patients. The ideal biocidal polymeric materials should be very effective in the microorganism’s inhibition, not toxic to the human body, and environmentally friendly. In this context, this work is aimed at obtaining antimicrobial and antifungal properties at the polyester film surfaces without introducing toxic effects. Poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) films were functionalized with Ar plasma and then immersed in a solution containing gold nanoparticles (AuNps). The results demonstrated the appearance of the hydrophilic groups on the film surface after modification of PET film by plasma Ar treatment and the formation of the polar groups such as C=O, COO-, and OH, which then reacted with AuNps. The changes induced in the treated polymer samples were investigated in terms of AuNp adsorption efficiency on polyester film by contact angle, profilometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Attenuated Total Reflectance Spectroscopy-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. The morphological and structural analyses have shown a good adhesion of AuNps at treated film surfaces. The results of biocompatibility antimicrobial and antifungal tests proved the nontoxic behavior of the sample and its good antimicrobial and antifungal activity.
Detection of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes Associated with Carbapenem Resistance from the Whole-Genome Sequence ofAcinetobacter baumanniiIsolates from Malaysia
Authors: Rao Mohan , Rashid Fairuz A. , Shukor Surianti , Hashim Rohaidah , Ahmad Norazah
Published: April 2020

Background. The spread of carbapenem-resistantA. baumannii(CrAb) is gaining worldwide attention. The spread of this pathogen is largely due to its ability to acquire various resistance genes of intrinsic and extrinsic origins that confer unpredictable susceptibility toβ-lactams. The aim of this study was to analyzeβ-lactamase genetic compositions of CrAb in Malaysia.Methods. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was carried out on 13 CrAb isolates from clinical samples in Malaysia from 2011 to 2016.Results. Endotracheal aspirate was the dominant clinical sample source (n = 6), and only one isolate was obtained from wound swab. A total of 6 sequence types (STs) of the Oxford scheme were identified, including 4 reported STs and 2 novel STs. Eleven isolates were classified into clonal complex 92 (CC92/ICII), among which ST195 and ST208 were the most prevalent STs. All 13 CrAb isolates harbored multipleβ-lactamase genes.blaOXA-23(n = 13) andblaOXA-66(n = 11) were the dominant carbapenemase gene families found in these isolates. All isolates harborblaADC,blaOXA-51-like, andblaOXA-23-likegenes.blaTEM(n = 7),blaNDM-1(n = 3),blaCARB-8(n = 1), andblaPER-3(n = 1) are amongst otherβ-lactamase genes found in this study. ISAba1was found upstream toblaOXA-23(n = 13),blaOXA-66(n = 1), andblaADC(n = 11). AllblaNDM-1isolates had ISAba125(mobile genetic element) upstream to the genes. All isolates were positive for Tn2006/2008and Tn2009but were negative for Tn2007.Conclusion. Most of the isolates were grouped under the CC92 clonal complex which belongs to international clonal lineage 2. These findings predict that carriage of carbapenem-resistant genes possibly constitutes the underlying basis of high level of international clone II prevalence. Therefore, molecular surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship are essential in implementing policies to prevent and control the spread of CrAb in hospital settings.
Energy-Efficient Mobile Edge Computing: Three-Tier Computing under Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: Pei Yongsheng , Peng Zhangyou , Wang Zhenling , Wang Haojia
Published: April 2020

Mobile edge computing (MEC) is a promising technique to meet the demands of computing-intensive and delay-sensitive applications by providing computation and storage capabilities in close proximity to mobile users. In this paper, we study energy-efficient resource allocation (EERA) schemes for hierarchical MEC architecture in heterogeneous networks. In this architecture, both small base station (SBS) and macro base station (MBS) are equipped with MEC servers and help smart mobile devices (SMDs) to perform tasks. Each task can be partitioned into three parts. The SMD, SBS, and MBS each perform a part of the task and form a three-tier computing structure. Based on this computing structure, an optimization problem is formulated to minimize the energy consumption of all SMDs subject to the latency constraints, where radio and computation resources are considered jointly. Then, an EERA mechanism based on the variable substitution technique is designed to calculate the optimal workload distribution, edge computation capability allocation, and SMDs’ transmit power. Finally, numerical simulation results demonstrate the energy efficiency improvement of the proposed EERA mechanism over the baseline schemes.
Middle-Aged Children’s Support for Parents-In-Law and Marital Satisfaction
Authors: Lee Jeong Eun , Kim Kyungmin , Cichy Kelly E. , Fingerman Karen L.
Published: April 2020

This study investigated the dissimilarity in midlife adults’ reports of support they and their spouse provide to their parents-in-law, gender differences in these dissimilarity patterns, and implications of this dissimilarity for marital quality. Middle-aged married participants (n = 164, mean age = 53.96 years) from Wave 2 of the Family Exchanges Study reported on the support they and their spouse provided to at least 1 living parent-in-law. Regression models examined associations of marital satisfaction with support for parents-in-law, evaluations of support for parents-in-law, and spousal dissimilarity in support. Gender differences in own and spousal support for parents-in-law revealed matrilineal focused support among married adults. Spousal dissimilarity in support was negatively associated with marital satisfaction for middle-aged adults. This pattern suggests the importance of a perceived balance in supporting one’s spouse’s parents for marital quality.
Clinicopathology and Diagnosis Delay in a 40-Year-Old with Mitochondrial Neurogastrointestinal Encephalomyopathy (MNGIE)
Authors: Tawk Antonios , Hussein Kamarreddine Mohammed , Dagher Mona , Abboud Ghadi , Chams Mohamad , Ghandour-Hajj Fatmeh , Khoury Mounir , Farhat Said
Published: April 2020

Mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy (MNGIE) is an autosomal recessive and fatal multisystem metabolic disorder. It presents with wide-ranging gastrointestinal and neurologic symptoms. It is caused by a mutation in the TYMP gene which impairs thymidine phosphorylase (TP) activity, therefore leading to the accumulation of thymidine and deoxyuridine in plasma and tissues. Thus, MNGIE can be diagnosed by findings of high levels of thymidine and deoxyuridine. Herein, we present the case of a 40-year-old male who presented with diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, severe weight loss, neurologic deficits, and distal motor weakness progressing over a period of 13 years. The combination of this broad clinical picture along with results of magnetic resonance imaging, electromyography, colonic biopsies, genetic testing, and elevated plasma and tissue thymidine and deoxyuridine levels confirmed the diagnosis of MNGIE. TYMP gene mutation impairs TP function. TP mutations in the nuclear DNA lead to mitochondrial DNA deletions causing mitochondrial failure and ultimately cell death. Treatment modalities are targeting the restoration of TP activity or aiming to decrease the high levels of thymidine and pyrimide. However, diagnosing this disease is still a challenge and often overdue. This patient’s 13-year delay in diagnosis shows the importance of a complete neurological exam and muscle strength testing in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. The diagnosis of MNGIE requires interdepartmental collaborative work for diagnosis delay prevention and for optimal patient care.
Minor Papillary Relief in a Type IA Choledochal Cyst: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kolli Sindhura , Weissman Simcha , Ofori Emmanuel , Dang-Ho Khoi Paul , Bandaru Praneeth , Bachali Kruthika , Tsipotis Evangelos , Etienne Denzil , Reddy Madhavi , Jelin Abraham , Gurram Krishna
Published: April 2020

Choledochal cysts are an anatomical conundrum as they present with nonspecific symptoms generally delaying diagnosis and treatment. Its lag time remains critical, as cholangiocarcinoma, a fatal sequelae, contributes to its morbidity and mortality. Herein, we present a case of a type 1A choledochal cyst. We hope that its review on presentation, classification system, diagnosis, and management prevent complications and cataclysmic results.
Short-Term Outcome and MRI Changes in Three Adult Patients with Sickle Cell Disease and Aseptic Osteonecrosis after Treatment with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Shier Amr , Abdelrazek Mohamed , Soliman Ashraf , De Sanctis Vincenzo , Elsayed Ahmed , Abdulla Mohamed , Mohamed Shehab , Yassin Khadra , Bilal Ilham , Yassin Mohamed
Published: April 2020

Background: Musculoskeletal manifestations are common in sickle cell disease (SCD). Vaso-occlusive crisis can manifest acutely as joint and bone pain, osteomyelitis and/or arthritis. It can also lead to chronic bone aches, bone deformities, degenerative arthritis, pathological fractures, and osteoporosis. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is a mode of treatment in which the patient is exposed to very high arterial and tissue oxygen pressure, during multiple sessions. It has been used as primary or adjunctive therapy for a variety of medical disorders, including necrotizing infection and sickle cell crisis. Case Report: In this case series, 3 patients with SCD and avascular necrosis were treated with 15–40 sessions of HBO and were assessed 6–12 months by MRI after treatment. They showed different clinical outcomes and MRI changes. Conclusion: We concluded that HBO can result in some subjective improvement, especially in early stages. Further studies on severe cases are needed.
The Visceral Adiposity Index Is a Predictor of Incident Chronic Kidney Disease: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study
Authors: Bamba Ryo , Okamura Takuro , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Hamaguchi Masahide , Obora Akihiro , Kojima Takao , Fukui Michiaki
Published: April 2020

Background and Aims: Visceral adiposity index (VAI), calculated with body mass index, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides and waist circumference, has been proposed as a marker of visceral fat accumulation and dysfunction in adipose tissue. Methods: The impact of VAI on incident chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a historical cohort study of 15,159 (8,260 men and 6,899 women) participants was investigated. CKD was defined when estimated glomerular filtration rate was <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or proteinuria (positive: ≥1+). We divided the participants into 2 groups according to sex and into quartiles according to VAI (Q1–4). We performed Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for age, smoking status, exercise, alcohol consumption, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c, uric acid, and creatinine. Results: During the median 3.3-year follow-up for men and 3.2-year follow-up for women, 1,078 participants (629 men and 449 women) developed CKD. The 4,000 days cumulative incidence rate of CKD for men and women were 3.7 and 3.9% in Q1, 5.2 and 5.9% in Q2, 6.5 and 7.0% in Q3, and 8.4 and 9.3% in Q4 respectively. Compared to Q1, the hazard ratios of incident CKD in Q2, Q3 and Q4 for men and women were 1.23 (95% CI 0.91–1.66, p = 0.184) and 1.30 (0.87–1.96, p = 0.203), 1.42 (1.06–1.90, p = 0.018) and 1.38 (0.94–2.05, p = 0.105), and 1.51 (1.12–2.02, p = 0.006) and 1.65 (1.12–2.46, p = 0.013) respectively. Additionally, the area under the curve of VAI for incidence of CKD was superior to that of VAI in men (0.595 vs. 0.552, p < 0.001) and equal to in women (0.597 vs. 0.591, p = 0.708). Conclusions: The VAI can be a predictor of incident CKD.
Uterine intussusception in immediate postpartum in bitches
Authors: Angrimani Daniel De Souza Ramos , Silva Matheus Felipe , Ilkiu Amanda Moraes , Rossi Eduardo Santos , Rodrigues Isadora Mestriner , Codognoto Viviane Maria , Ferreira João Carlos Pinheiro
Published: April 2020

Uterine intussusception is a rare condition in bitches. This study aimed to report an unusual case of prolapsed uterine intussusception in a female dog. A 2-year-old American Bully bitch was received with labor history of large fetus requiring manual traction. The animal presented mucosal prolapse through the vulva, unproductive contractions and abdominal discomfort. After partial correction of mucosal prolapse, the dog was referred to ovary-hysterectomy surgery to correct prolapsed mucosa. During the surgical procedure, surgeons observed that the uterine horns were invaginated into the uterine body, rotated, and the tissue was slightly devitalized and congested. As previously described, this condition occurred during the immediate postpartum period. Thus, we suggest that this period can be a facilitator for the establishment of uterine intussusception.
Integrin β3 Deficiency Results in Hypertriglyceridemia via Disrupting LPL (Lipoprotein Lipase) Secretion
Authors: Xiao Bing , Mao Jianhua , Sun Boyang , Zhang Wei , Wang Yun , Wang Pengran , Ruan Zheng , Xi Wenda , Li Huiyuan , Zhou Jingyi , Lu Yide , Ding Qiulan , Wang Xuefeng , Liu Jingqiu , Yan Jinsong , Luo Cheng , Shi Xiaofeng , Yang Renchi , Xi Xiaodong
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Integrin β3 is implicated in numerous biological processes such as its relevance to blood triglyceride, yet whether β3 deficiency affects this metabolic process remains unknown.

Approach and Results:

We showed that the Chinese patients with β3-deficient Glanzmann thrombasthenia had a 2-fold higher serum triglyceride level together with a lower serum LPL (lipoprotein lipase) level than those with an αIIb deficiency or healthy subjects. The β3 knockout mice recapitulated these phenotypic features. The elevated plasma triglyceride level was due to impaired LPL-mediated triglyceride clearance caused by a disrupted LPL secretion. Further analysis revealed that β3 directly bound LPL via a juxtamembrane TIH (threonine isoleucine histidine)
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motif in its cytoplasmic domain and functioned as an adaptor protein by interacting with LPL and PKD (protein kinase D) to form the PKD/β3/LPL complex that is required for β3-mediated LPL secretion. Furthermore, the impaired triglyceride clearance in β3 knockout mice could be corrected by adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9)-mediated delivery of wild-type but not TIH
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-mutated β3 genes.

Conclusions:

This study reveals a hypertriglyceridemia in both β3-deficient Chinese patients and mice and provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of the significant roles of β3 in LPL secretion and triglyceride metabolism, drawing attention to the metabolic consequences in patients with β3-deficient Glanzmann thrombasthenia.
Whole-Body Atherosclerosis Imaging by Positron Emission Tomography/Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Calcagno Claudia , Pérez-Medina Carlos , Mulder Willem J.M. , Fayad Zahi A.
Published: April 2020

Cardiovascular disease due to atherosclerosis is still the main cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This disease is a complex systemic disorder arising from a network of pathological processes within the arterial vessel wall, and, outside of the vasculature, in the hematopoietic system and organs involved in metabolism. Recent years have seen tremendous efforts in the development and validation of quantitative imaging technologies for the noninvasive evaluation of patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Specifically, the advent of combined positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scanners has opened new exciting opportunities in cardiovascular imaging. In this review, we will describe how combined positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging scanners can be leveraged to evaluate atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease at the whole-body level, with specific focus on preclinical animal models of disease, from mouse to nonhuman primates. We will broadly describe 3 major areas of application: (1) vascular imaging, for advanced atherosclerotic plaque phenotyping and evaluation of novel imaging tracers or therapeutic interventions; (2) assessment of the ischemic heart and brain; and (3) whole-body imaging of the hematopoietic system. Finally, we will provide insights on potential novel technical developments which may further increase the relevance of integrated positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging in preclinical atherosclerosis studies.
Practice Patterns Surrounding Pregnancy After Heart Transplantation
Authors: DeFilippis Ersilia M. , Haythe Jennifer , Farr Maryjane A. , Kobashigawa Jon , Kittleson Michelle M.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Pregnancy after heart transplantation (HT) is a concern for many female recipients. The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation has guidelines regarding reproductive health, but limited data exist regarding providers’ attitudes and practices surrounding pregnancy post-HT.

Methods:

We conducted an independent, confidential, voluntary, web-based survey sent electronically to 1643 United States heart transplant providers between June and August 2019.

Results:

There were 122 responses, the majority from cardiologists (n=85, 70%) and nurse or transplant coordinators (n=22, 18%). Thirty-one percent (n=37) of respondents indicated that pregnancy should be avoided in all HT recipients, and only 43% (n=52) reported that their center had a formal policy regarding pregnancy following HT. The most commonly reported contraindications included nonadherence (n=109, 89%), reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (n=104, 85%), coronary allograft vasculopathy (n=86, 70%), prior rejection (n=76, 62%), presence of donor-specific antibodies (n=69, 57%), and prior peripartum cardiomyopathy pretransplant (n=57, 47%). Respondent sex, specialty, transplant volume, or prior experience with pregnancy after HT were not associated with recommendations to avoid posttransplant pregnancy.

Conclusions:

Transplant providers’ attitudes regarding posttransplant pregnancy vary widely. Despite International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation guidelines, a significant proportion indicates that pregnancy is contraindicated in all recipients and the majority of programs have no center-specific policy to manage such pregnancies. While the low response rate limits the generalizability of the findings, they do suggest that education on the feasibility of pregnancy post-HT is indicated as many recipients are of, or survive to, childbearing age.
Joseph and Aseneth: An Entertaining Tale
Authors: Elder Nicholas A.
Published: April 2020

This article argues that whatever else Joseph and Aseneth is and for whatever other reason that it might have been written, the narrative is an entertaining tale. The starting point for this thesis is an assessment of the extent to which Joseph and Aseneth can be characterized as “fan fiction.” The article suggests that because both fan fiction and Joseph and Aseneth are “archontic,” fan theory can profitably inform Joseph and Aseneth. This theory is then applied to Joseph and Aseneth to throw new light on the motivation for which Joseph and Aseneth was written, specifically suggesting that, like fan fiction, the narrative is the result of the simultaneous adoration of and frustration with a specific cultural text, namely the Joseph Cycle. The article further contends that the narrative makes extensive use of irony, humor, and adventure as it displays various tendencies of fan fiction.
Midrashic Traditions, Literary Editing, and Polemics in Midrash Tehillim 22: Between Judaism and Christianity
Authors: Atzmon Arnon
Published: April 2020

In this article I demonstrate how a careful reading of the text of Midrash Tehillim 22 reveals a clear distinction between its different developmental layers. While we do find the identification of particular verses with Esther in the early stages of the midrash’s development, there is no reason to assume that this identification was rooted in an anti-Christian polemic. On the other hand, in the later layers of the midrash, we find clear echoes of the systematic creation of a continuous exegesis that focuses on identifying the entire Psalm with Esther. The background for this trend was a polemical confrontation with the Christian interpretation which viewed the Psalm as a prefiguration for Jesus’s crucifixion. The midrash also serves as a Jewish counter to the Christian liturgy created in the wake of the Christological reading.
A new species of Biophytum (Oxalidaceae) from the Western Ghats (Kerala, India)

Authors: DANIEL JISHA , SANTHOSH KUMAR ETTICKAL SUKUMARAN , DECRUSE SABARIMUTHAN WILLIAM , RAJENDRAPRASAD MADHAVAN
Published: April 2020

A new branched species of Biophytum from the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve (Kerala region, SW-India), named B. agasthyamalayanum, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to B. intermedium and B. nudum, but clearly distinct from both these two species especially by the dwarf and slender habit, the smaller leaves, and the obliquely obovate terminal leaflets.
Validation of Spadella kappae Schmidt-Rhaesa & Vieler, a small benthic chaetognath from Roscoff, France (Chaetognatha)
Authors: SCHMIDT-RHAESA ANDREAS , VIELER VERA
Published: April 2020

Schmidt-Rhaesa & Vieler (2018) described a new species of benthic chaetognath, Spadella kappae, collected by meiofaunal sampling near Roscoff, France. Although the description and figures presented by Schmidt-Rhaesa & Vieler (2018) fully characterize the new species, the journal issue in which the description appeared was published online-only, with no print version, and the article in which the new name appeared did not include a ZooBank registration number for the article (LSID), required for validation of new species names in electronic-only publications (ICZN 2012). As a result, the name Spadella kappae Schmidt-Rhaesa & Vieler, 2018, as published in Cahiers de Biologie Marine 59: 257–265, is not available according the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, hereafter, the Code (ICZN 1999, 2012). Therefore, the present note serves to validate the name Spadella kappae by fulfilling Code conditions for nomenclatural availability. The date and authorship of the specific name, accordingly, are those of this note, not Schmidt-Rhaesa & Vieler (2018).
Revision of Stenetra Masi, 1931 (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae)
Authors: TSELIKH EKATERINA , BURKS ROGER
Published: April 2020

The species of Stenetra Masi (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) are revised. Nine world species are recognized based on females, of which seven new species are described: S. californica Tselikh & Burks sp. nov. (USA), S. caucasica Tselikh sp. nov. (Armenia, Georgia), S. daleskeyae Tselikh sp. nov. (Kazakhstan, Russia, Spain), S. khalaimi Tselikh sp. nov. (Israel), S. longuncus Tselikh & Burks sp. nov. (USA), S. miyazakii Tselikh & Burks sp. nov. (Canada), S. parvula Tselikh & Burks sp. nov. (USA, Mexico). With the description of new species, Stenetra is for the first time recorded from the New World and Nearctic region. All the species are described or redescribed and illustrated by macrophotography, including type material of previously described species, and a key for the identification of the nine known species is given.
Euconnus (Rhomboconnus): redescriptions of species described by Schaufuss and Sharp, and descriptions of five new Mexican species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: April 2020

To date, the subgenus Rhomboconnus Franz of Euconnus Thomson was represented by twelve species known to occur in Bolivia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. Examination of Neotropical species described by David Sharp and Ludwig Wilhelm Schaufuss revealed that two more species, previously not recognized as members of Rhomboconnus, occur in Guatemala and Brazil: Euconnus cavifrons (L.W. Schaufuss) and E. giraffa Sharp. The latter species was redescribed by Herbert Franz and recorded to occur in Mexico. Franz’s ‘redescription’, however, was based on misidentified specimens. Five new species are described, all known to occur in souther n Mexico: Euconnus (Rhomboconnus) agiraffa sp. n., Euconnus (Rhomboconnus) oaxacanus sp. n., Euconnus (Rhomboconnus) bicarinatus sp. n., Euconnus (Rhomboconnus) cordobanus sp. n., and Euconnus (Rhomboconnus) maya sp. n.
Plecoptera larvae of China: larval descriptions of two stonefly species (Capniidae, Nemouridae) from Jiangsu Province
Authors: CHEN ZHI-TENG
Published: April 2020

Larvae of Capnia zijinshana Du & Chen, 2016 (Capniidae) and Nemoura nankinensis Wu, 1926 (Nemouridae) are described and illustrated based on recently collected specimens collected from Jiangsu Province of southeastern China. These are the first larval descriptions in the family Capniidae and the genus Nemoura Latrielle, 1796 from China. Larval morphology of C. zijinshana is similar to the adults. Larvae of N. nankinensis are consistent with the generic larval definition of previous literature.
The Effect of Marijuana Legalization on the Trajectories of Hard Drug–Related Hospitalizations: A Growth Curve Analysis of the County-Level State Inpatient Database in Washington, 2009–2015
Authors: Park Seong-min , Shen Jay J. , Yoo Ji Won , Reed Shon M.
Published: April 2020

Two antithetical arguments have raised controversies over the effect of recreational marijuana legalization on hard drug use. The gateway perspective posits that marijuana use diffuses hard drug use; however, recent studies argue that marijuana legalization displaces hard drug use. This study examines these conflicting arguments by investigating temporal patterns of hard drug–related hospitalizations (HDHs) before and after marijuana legalization. Using county-level State Inpatient Database data from Washington State for the years 2009–2015, along with other federal data sources, this study assesses temporal changes in HDH using growth curve modeling. Initial findings show support for the displacement perspective, though controlling for other county-level factors (education and economic change) indicates that the legalization of recreational marijuana may be a gateway toward harder drugs. Considering the economic situation of the United States during the study period, this study concludes that marijuana legalization functioned as a gateway toward increased hard drug use.
Cannabis Normalization Among Young Adults in a Nigerian City
Authors: Dumbili Emeka W.
Published: April 2020

Drug normalization has been researched extensively in the West. Yet, we know little about how drug use is normalized in non-Western contexts. Drawing on interviews with young adults, this study is the first to explore illicit drug normalization in Nigeria. Cannabis was widely available and easy to access and students were part of the supply chain. Citing therapeutic and functional benefits, participants normalized cannabis consumption, using it to prepare soup, noodles, and birthday cakes. Unlike women, who may give up cannabis use due to stigmatization and marriage, men had no plans to stop its use. Gender determined drug-taking practices and social accommodation of drug users, suggesting differentiated normalization. Men who used cannabis were accommodated by their peers, unlike women, who were stigmatized by female non-users. In general, the findings highlight a shift in illicit drug use practices and noticeable gendered and differentiated social accommodation among peers, although cultural acceptance of illegal recreational drugs remains at the margin.
Automated Ultrasound Measurement of the Inferior Vena Cava: An Animal Study
Authors: Chen Jiangang , Li Jiawei , Ding Xin , Wei Gaofeng , Wang Xiaoting , Li Qingli
Published: April 2020

Because of continuous movement and variation in diameter of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with respiration, the measurements on IVC are labor-intensive and with considerable inter-operator variations. Some computer-assisted techniques have been developed to track the movement of the IVC semi-automatically. However, existing methods predominantly rely on reference marker selection and require many manual inputs. In this study, we developed a cross-correlation (CC)-based method for automated IVC movement tracking and measurement, which requires minimal manual input and avoids manual selection of reference markers. Based on the CC method, two approaches, named direct and relative approaches, were used to calculate the maximum, minimum, and variation of the IVC diameter, and compared with the manual measurement. Fifty-four ultrasound cine-loops collected from nine pigs were tested. The results reveal that both the proposed approaches were well agreed with the manual measurement. The errors of the direct approach were less than 9%, while those of relative approach were as high as 26.7%. It is concluded that the proposed direct approach is superior for IVC diameter measurements, which can be comparable with manual counterpart, serving as an alternative to traditional IVC measurement.
Nativity and Country of Origin Variations in Life Expectancy With Functional Limitations Among Older Hispanics in the United States
Authors: Garcia Marc A. , Reyes Adriana M. , García Catherine , Chiu Chi-Tsun , Macias Grecia
Published: April 2020

This study examined racial/ethnic, nativity, and country of origin differences in life expectancy with and without functional limitations among older adults in the United States. We used data from the National Health Interview Survey (1999–2015) to estimate Sullivan-based life tables of life expectancies with functional limitations and without functional limitations by sex for U.S.-born Mexicans, foreign-born Mexicans, U.S.-born Puerto Ricans, island-born Puerto Ricans, foreign-born Cubans, and U.S.-born Whites. We find that Latinos exhibit heterogeneous life expectancies with functional limitations. Among females, U.S.-born Mexicans, foreign-born Mexicans, and foreign-born Cubans spend significantly fewer years without functional limitations, whereas island-born Puerto Ricans spend more years with functional limitations. For men, U.S.-born Puerto Ricans were the only Latino subgroup disadvantaged in the number of years lived with functional limitations. Conversely, foreign-born Cubans spend significantly fewer years without functional limitations. To address disparities in functional limitations, we must consider variation in health among Latino subgroups.
Long noncoding RNA TUG1 is downregulated in sepsis and may sponge miR-27a to downregulate tumor necrosis factor-α
Authors: Wang Li , Zhong Qinghua , Feng Yanli , Tang Xiaoying , Wang Qiong , Zou Yongyi , Duan Jiang
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Bioinformatics analysis revealed a potential interaction between long noncoding (lnc)RNA TUG1 (taurine-upregulated gene 1) and microRNA (miR)-27a. miR-27a can promote sepsis by upregulating tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Our objective was to study the roles of TUG1 in sepsis.

Methods

Plasma levels of TUG1 in patients with sepsis and in healthy controls were measured by quantitative PCR assay. The IntaRNA program was used to predict potential interactions between TUG1 mRNA and miR-27a. The interaction between TUG1 and miR-27a was further explored by transfecting TUG1 expression vector or miR-27a mimic into AC16 human cardiomyocytes, and apoptosis was evaluated by cell apoptosis assay.

Results

TUG1 was downregulated in patients with sepsis. TUG1 was able to directly interact with miR-27a, but overexpression of TUG1 or miR-27a failed to affect the expression of each other. In contrast, TUG1 overexpression led to decreased levels of TNF-α, whereas miR-27a overexpression increased TNF-α in cardiomyocytes. Cell apoptosis analysis showed that TNF-α and miR-27a overexpression promoted apoptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by lipopolysaccharide. TUG1 overexpression had the opposite effect and attenuated the effects of TNF-α and miR-27a overexpression.

Conclusion

We conclude that TUG1 is downregulated in sepsis and may act as a molecular “sponge” of miR-27a to downregulate TNF-α.
Intraoperative dexmedetomidine-induced polyuria from a loading dose: a case report
Authors: Chen Zhang , Chen Ting , Ye Haiwang , Chen Junping , Lu Bo
Published: April 2020

With extensive perioperative use of dexmedetomidine, there has been rising concern about its side effects, which are most commonly bradycardia and hypotension. However, increased urine output or diuresis is not well recognized with perioperative use of dexmedetomidine. We report a case of intraoperative polyuria induced by dexmedetomidine. The unusual feature of this case is that only a loading dose of dexmedetomidine was administered, but there was a long-lasting and large effect of diuresis. The findings from our case suggest that clinicians should be alert to the risk of diuresis when using dexmedetomidine.
Fucosidosis in a Chinese boy: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Lingxing , Yang Meili , Hong Shanyan , Tang Ting , Zhuang Jiaxin , Huang Honghong
Published: April 2020

Fucosidosis is a rare lysosomal storage disease, resulting from a deficiency in an alpha-l-fucosidase enzyme. There are fewer than 120 cases of this disease worldwide and very few reported in Chinese children. Here, we report a Chinese boy presenting with psychomotor regression, dermatological abnormality, dysostosis multiplex, and classic changes observed with head magnetic resonance imaging. He was diagnosed with fucosidosis, with a previously reported homozygous mutation of c.393(exon2)T > A, p.Tyr131Stop, in the FUCA1 gene. Increasing awareness of fucosidosis will help in the early diagnosis of this disease and could shed light on the therapeutic role of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which may be effective in early stages of the disease.
Nonlinear vibration of a nanocomposite laminated piezoelectric trapezoidal actuator in subsonic airflow under combined electrical and forcing excitations
Authors: Noroozi Marziye , Bakhtiari-Nejad Firooz
Published: April 2020

The nonlinear dynamic and vibration behaviors of a cantilevered carbon nanotube-reinforced composite trapezoidal plate with two surface-bonded piezoelectric layers as an actuator in micro air vehicles are considered in this article. The plate is reinforced by single-walled carbon nanotubes and is exposed to subsonic airflow under combined parametric and external excitations. The large deflection von Karman plate assumptions and the classical laminated plate theory are applied to derive the governing equations of the motion of the piezoelectric nanocomposite laminated trapezoidal plate by using Hamilton's principle. The geometry of the trapezoidal plate is mapped into a rectangular computational domain. The Galerkin's approach is used for transforming the nonlinear partial differential equations of motion into nonlinear two-degrees-of-freedom ordinary differential equations of cubic nonlinearities. The case of 1:3 internal resonance and primary resonance is considered, and the multiple scales method is employed. The aerodynamic pressure distribution formula is modeled by linear potential flow theory. The frequency and time history responses and phase portrait in free forced vibrations are obtained to analyze the nonlinear dynamic behavior of the plate. The effects of different parameters such as the plate geometry, volume fraction of carbon nanotubes, and different excitations on the nonlinear vibration of the thin laminated plate are also discussed. A complex softening nonlinearity with two peaks in the higher mode is observed in frequency response curves. The influence of electrical excitation with several amplitudes and frequencies on dynamic stability is investigated using time response curves.
Turbulence effect on dynamic performance of non-circular floating ring bearing
Authors: Soni Sandeep
Published: April 2020

The current work scrutinizes the impact of turbulence on the dynamic performance of the novel variation of hydrodynamic bearing, especially “Non-Circular Floating Ring Bearing”. A bearing comprises of a shaft, floating ring, and non-circular outer housing. The journal and floating ring are cylindrical, whilst the outer housing is noncircular. The noncircular designs of journal bearing provide better stiffness characteristics. The well-established Navier–Stokes and continuity equations (cylindrical coordinates) have been adequately utilized with the linear turbulence lubrication theory. Dynamic characteristics of modified floating ring bearing have been scrutinized at different numerical values of film eccentricity ratio (outer) and Reynolds numbers up to 9000. The current analytical work envisages satisfactorily well performance of modified floating ring bearing in the regime of turbulence.