bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk sharing, regional stabilization, and redistribution: the role of fiscal mechanisms in Switzerland
Authors: Feld Lars P , Schaltegger Christoph A , Studerus Janine
Published: July 2020

This paper analyses the importance of fiscal mechanisms for regional stabilization and redistribution in Switzerland. Switzerland is particularly interesting in this context because it features both a high level of fiscal autonomy for Swiss cantons, and explicit fiscal transfers between the federal government and the cantons. Based on a panel data analysis, we study the redistributive and stabilizing properties of fiscal equalization transfers, federal government transfers in general, direct federal taxation, the unemployment insurance scheme, and the first pillar pension scheme. We find a combined redistributive effect of these mechanisms of about 20%. This means that long-run income differentials of 1 Swiss franc between cantons translate into differences of long-run disposable income after taxes and transfers of about 80 cents. The combined contemporary stabilization effect with respect to short-term income fluctuations amounts, at best, to 10%, which is a small effect compared to previous findings for other countries.
Feverish Stock Price Reactions to COVID-19*
Authors: Ramelli Stefano , Wagner Alexander F
Published: July 2020

Market reactions to the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) provide new insights into how real shocks and financial policies drive firm value. Initially, internationally oriented firms, especially those more exposed to trade with China, underperformed. As the virus spread to Europe and the United States, corporate debt and cash holdings emerged as important value drivers, relevant even after the Fed intervened in the bond market. The content and tone of conference calls mirror this development over time. Overall, the results illustrate how anticipated real effects from the health crisis, a rare disaster, were amplified through financial channels. (JEL G01, G12, G14, G32, F14)

Received: May 27, 2020; editorial decision June 16, 2020 by Editor Andrew Ellul. Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Identification and characterization of two consistent osteoarthritis subtypes by transcriptome and clinical data integration
Authors: Coutinho de Almeida Rodrigo , Mahfouz Ahmed , Mei Hailiang , Houtman Evelyn , den Hollander Wouter , Soul Jamie , Suchiman Eka , Lakenberg Nico , Meessen Jennifer , Huetink Kasper , Nelissen Rob G H H , Ramos Yolande F M , Reinders Marcel , Meulenbelt Ingrid
Published: July 2020

Objective

To identify OA subtypes based on cartilage transcriptomic data in cartilage tissue and characterize their underlying pathophysiological processes and/or clinically relevant characteristics.

Methods

This study includes n = 66 primary OA patients (41 knees and 25 hips), who underwent a joint replacement surgery, from which macroscopically unaffected (preserved, n = 56) and lesioned (n = 45) OA articular cartilage were collected [Research Arthritis and Articular Cartilage (RAAK) study]. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis on preserved cartilage transcriptome followed by clinical data integration was performed. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) followed by pathway enrichment analysis were done for genes significant differentially expressed between subgroups with interactions in the PPI network.

Results

Analysis of preserved samples (n = 56) resulted in two OA subtypes with n = 41 (cluster A) and n = 15 (cluster B) patients. The transcriptomic profile of cluster B cartilage, relative to cluster A (DE-AB genes) showed among others a pronounced upregulation of multiple genes involved in chemokine pathways. Nevertheless, upon investigating the OA pathophysiology in cluster B patients as reflected by differentially expressed genes between preserved and lesioned OA cartilage (DE-OA-B genes), the chemokine genes were significantly downregulated with OA pathophysiology. Upon integrating radiographic OA data, we showed that the OA phenotype among cluster B patients, relative to cluster A, may be characterized by higher joint space narrowing (JSN) scores and low osteophyte (OP) scores.

Conclusion

Based on whole-transcriptome profiling, we identified two robust OA subtypes characterized by unique OA, pathophysiological processes in cartilage as well as a clinical phenotype. We advocate that further characterization, confirmation and clinical data integration is a prerequisite to allow for development of treatments towards personalized care with concurrently more effective treatment response.
Impaired Sensorimotor Gating Using the Acoustic Prepulse Inhibition Paradigm in Individuals at a Clinical High Risk for Psychosis
Authors: Bo Qijing , Mao Zhen , Tian Qing , Yang Ningbo , Li Xianbin , Dong Fang , Zhou Fuchun , Li Liang , Wang Chuanyue
Published: July 2020

Many robust studies have investigated prepulse inhibition (PPI) in patients with schizophrenia. Recent evidence indicates that PPI may help identify individuals who are at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR). Selective attention to prepulse stimulus can specifically enhance PPI in healthy subjects; however, this enhancement effect is not observed in patients with schizophrenia. Modified PPI measurement with selective attentional modulation using perceived spatial separation (PSS) condition may be a more robust and sensitive index of PPI impairment in CHR individuals. The current study investigated an improved PSSPPI condition in CHR individuals compared with patients with first-episode schizophrenia (FES) and healthy controls (HC) and evaluated the accuracy of PPI in predicting CHR from HC. We included 53 FESs, 55 CHR individuals, and 53 HCs. CHRs were rated on the Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes. The measures of perceived spatial co-location PPI (PSCPPI) and PSSPPI conditions were applied using 60- and 120-ms lead intervals. Compared with HC, the CHR group had lower PSSPPI level (Inter-stimulus interval [ISI] = 60 ms, P < .001; ISI = 120 ms, P < .001). PSSPPI showed an effect size (ES) between CHR and HC (ISI = 60 ms, Cohen’s d = 0.91; ISI = 120 ms, Cohen’s d = 0.98); on PSSPPI using 60-ms lead interval, ES grade increased from CHR to FES. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for PSSPPI was greater than that for PSCPPI. CHR individuals showed a PSSPPI deficit similar to FES, with greater ES and sensitivity. PSSPPI appears a promising objective approach for preliminary identification of CHR individuals.
Too much mortgage debt? The effect of housing financialization on housing supply and residential capital formation
Authors: Kohl Sebastian
Published: July 2020

This article argues that the explosion of mortgage finance has not led to a proportional expansion of housing supply across 17 countries in a historical perspective (1913–2016). Based on a collection of housing construction data, it shows that the co-cyclical behavior of construction, prices and mortgage credit has been followed by a decoupling of house-price mortgage spirals from the underlying stagnating or declining construction activity since the 1980s. Mortgage debt is nonlinearly associated with new construction: positive up to a threshold, negative thereafter. The article argues that the increasing use of housing as an asset, or housing financialization, can explain why mortgages grow without construction, i.e. through privatization of state housing and supply restrictions as a result of rentier strategies of housing-market insiders and private developers. Private mortgage markets have thus been a less reliable policy alternative to traditional state-led housing construction policies. The article confirms for housing what has previously been found for growth or capital formation: beyond a certain threshold, there is a curse of too much finance.
The Inter- and Intra-Party Politics of Moral Policy: Free Voting and Abortion Reform in Uruguay
Authors: Reuterswärd Camilla
Published: July 2020

Moral policies such as abortion are often up to the conscience of individual legislators who can vote against the party line without sanctions. While free votes might jeopardize reform, party leaders can enforce discipline to achieve policy objectives. This article develops a framework to explain legislative behavior on abortion. It highlights how individual-level religiosity and party characteristics—voter linkage mechanisms and elite-base ties—shape votes on proposed bills. Analyzing three attempts to decriminalize abortion in left-governed Uruguay, this article highlights party variables beyond ideology and sheds more light on the puzzle of Latin America’s slow progress on reproductive rights.
Tax consequences of setting aside a voidable transaction on the ground of mistake
Authors: Smith Rodney Stewart
Published: July 2020

This article considers whether there is, as has been widely assumed until now, a general principle that, if a voidable transaction is avoided by an order of the court (for example, on grounds of mistake or under the Hastings-Bass rule), the order operates retrospectively for all purposes, including fiscal purposes. It discusses whether the Court of Appeal decision in Clark v HMRC [2020] EWCA Civ 204 throws doubt on the existence and ambit of such a principle. It also explores how the principle operates where the court imposes terms on the rescission of a transaction, such as a requirement that one or more of the parties enters into a fresh transaction, or where there have been intervening transactions between the voidable transaction and the order rescinding it.
The Effects of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement on Mitral Valve Function
Authors: Biswas Medha , Ahmad Hasan , Frishman and William H.
Published: July 2020

The transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure provides a way to treat severe aortic stenosis in the large population of patients who are not candidates for surgical aortic valve replacement. Mitral regurgitation is often concomitant to aortic stenosis in these patients due to the high pressure of the left ventricle and long-term damage to the mitral valve. Due to the proximity of the aortic valve to the mitral valve, TAVR can impact the functional status of the mitral valve by affecting left ventricular outlet obstruction and the mitral valve annular shape. As TAVR becomes increasingly prevalent to treat aortic stenosis, consideration into the impact of TAVR on mitral valve function is important in order determine whether patients will be able to undergo mitral valve repair or replacement, whether surgically or percutaneously. In this review, we seek to explore the effect of TAVR on the mitral annular geometry, mitral valve flow, and the impact of TAVR on the mitral valve in the presence of mitral annular calcification.
Heart failure and renal outcomes according to baseline and achieved blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes: results from EMPA-REG OUTCOME
Authors: Böhm Michael , Fitchett David , Ofstad Anne Pernille , Brueckmann Martina , Kaspers Stefan , George Jyothis T. , Zwiener Isabella , Zinman Bernard , Wanner Christoph , Marx Nikolaus , Mancia Giuseppe , Anker Stefan D. , Mahfoud Felix
Published: July 2020

Background:

The sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin reduced cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalizations in type 2 diabetes (T2D) in addition to a reduction of SBP. As heart failure patients often present with low SBP, which can challenge treatment initiation, we explored if empagliflozin's effect on SBP was independent of baseline SBP and heart failure status, and if the effect on cardiovascular and heart failure outcomes was influenced by updated mean SBP or by an early change in SBP after drug initiation.

Methods and results:

A total of 7020 patients were treated with empagliflozin 10 mg, 25 mg or placebo and followed for a median of 3.1 years. All of them had BP measurement at baseline. We evaluated changes in SBP in the context of heart failure status at baseline and according to baseline SBP categories (<120, 120--<130, 130--<140, 140--<160, ≥160 mmHg). The updated mean SBP during the trial was calculated as a time-dependent variable. We then assessed the association of baseline and updated mean SBP with three-point major adverse cardiovascular events (3P-MACE), hospitalization for heart failure, cardiovascular death, hospitalization for heart failure or cardiovascular death, all-cause death, and incident/worsening nephropathy, and whether treatment effect of empagliflozin vs. placebo on these outcomes differed if adjusted for updated mean SBP. Finally, we evaluated the impact of early decline in SBP (≥5 mmHg at week 4) on the treatment effect of empagliflozin vs. placebo on these outcomes. Analyses were performed via Cox regression adjusting for baseline risk factors including a term for treatment subgroup interaction, and by landmark analyses starting at week 4. The difference in SBP reduction at week 12 between empagliflozin and placebo was 3--5 mmHg and similar regardless of baseline SBP category or HF status at baseline. Baseline SBP and updated mean SBP categories showed no association with cardiovascular outcomes, but was associated with new/worsening nephropathy. The treatment effects of empagliflozin on all explored outcomes were independent of updated mean SBP as well of the early drop in SBP on treatment.

Conclusion:

In addition to decreasing SBP, empagliflozin reduced cardiovascular, heart failure and renal outcomes independently of updated mean SBP during the trial, and of the early SBP drop. These results suggest a BP-independent effect of empagliflozin on cardiovascular and heart failure outcomes.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:

NCT01131676.
24-h ambulatory blood pressure versus clinic blood pressure as predictors of cardiovascular risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies
Authors: Fan Hong , Onakpoya Igho J. , Heneghan Carl J.
Published: July 2020

Background:

There is uncertainty about the usefulness of ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) in predicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Our objective was to compare the prognostic value of ABP versus clinic blood pressure (BP) in CVD.

Methods:

We conducted electronic searches on Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library up to July 2018. We included prospective longitudinal studies that compared 24-h ABP with clinic BP measurement in adults. Our main outcomes were all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, and/or CVD events. We assessed study quality based on four domains and pooled data using a random effects model of STATA for meta-analyses.

Results:

We included 13 studies comprising 81 736 participants. The overall quality of the studies was moderate. Both systolic and diastolic 24-h ABP as well as systolic clinic BP significantly predicted all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, and CVD events. Systolic 24-h ABP was significantly better than systolic clinic BP at predicting future risk of CVD events: combined hazard ratio for 24-h ABP = 1.27 (95% confidence interval 1.21–1.34) per 10 mmHg increase in SBP compared with 1.13 (1.06–1.21) for clinic BP (interaction test P = 0.02). After adjusting for clinic BP, both systolic and diastolic 24-h ABP measurements were significantly better than their corresponding clinic measurements at predicting all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, and CVD events (P = 0.001 and P = 0.000, respectively).

Conclusion:

Systolic 24-h ABP is a better predictor of future CVD events than systolic clinic BP. Future studies should incorporate the use of individual patient data to assess the prognostic value of 24-h ABP.
Genetics, prevalence, screening and confirmation of primary aldosteronism: a position statement and consensus of the Working Group on Endocrine Hypertension of The European Society of Hypertension ∗
Authors: Mulatero Paolo , Monticone Silvia , Deinum Jaap , Amar Laurence , Prejbisz Aleksander , Zennaro Maria-Christina , Beuschlein Felix , Rossi Gian Paolo , Nishikawa Tetsuo , Morganti Alberto , Seccia Teresa Maria , Lin Yen-Hung , Fallo Francesco , Widimsky Jiri
Published: July 2020

Autonomous aldosterone overproduction represents the underlying condition of 5–10% of patients with arterial hypertension and carries a significant burden of mortality and morbidity. The diagnostic algorithm for primary aldosteronism is sequentially based on hormonal tests (screening and confirmation tests), followed by lateralization studies (adrenal CT scanning and adrenal venous sampling) to distinguish between unilateral and bilateral disease. Despite the recommendations of the Endocrine Society guideline, primary aldosteronism is largely underdiagnosed and undertreated with high between-centre heterogeneity. Experts from the European Society of Hypertension have critically reviewed the available literature and prepared a consensus document constituting two articles to summarize current knowledge on the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of primary aldosteronism.
Administration of recombinant human placental growth factor decreases blood pressure in obese hypertensive pregnant rats
Authors: Palei Ana C. , Tan Adelene Y. , Joo Woo S. , Kussie Paul , Anderson Christopher D. , Wilson Barbara A. , Spradley Frank T.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

Although epidemiological studies have shown that obesity is associated with increased incidence of hypertension during pregnancy, the mechanisms linking these two comorbidities are not as well studied. Previous investigations detected lower levels of the anti-hypertensive and pregnancy-related factor, placental growth factor (PlGF), in obese hypertensive pregnancies. Therefore, we examined whether obese hypertensive pregnant rats have reduced PlGF and whether increasing its levels by administering recombinant human (rh)PlGF reduces their blood pressure.

Methods:

We utilized a genetic model of obesity characterized to be heavier, hypertensive and fertile, namely rats having heterozygous deficiency of the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R-def).

Results:

MC4R-def obese rats had lower circulating levels of PlGF than wild-type lean controls at gestational day 19. Also, assessment of the PlGF receptor, Flt-1, in the vasculature showed that its levels were reduced in aorta and kidney glomeruli but increased in small mesenteric arteries. Chronic intraperitoneal administration of rhPlGF from gestational day 13–19 significantly increased circulating PlGF levels in both obese and lean rats, but reduced blood pressure only in the obese pregnant group. The rhPlGF treatment did not alter maternal body and fat masses or circulating levels of the adipokines, leptin and adiponectin. In addition, this treatment did not impact average foetal weights but increased placental weights regardless of obese or lean pregnancy.

Conclusion:

PlGF is reduced in MC4R-def obese hypertensive pregnant rats, which is similar to findings in obese hypertensive pregnant women, while increasing its levels with exogenous rhPlGF reduces their blood pressure.
Low relative skeletal muscle mass predicts incident hypertension in Korean men: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Han Ji Min , Lee Mi-Yeon , Lee Kyu-Beck , Kim Hyang , Hyun Young Youl
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Previous cross-sectional studies suggest an association between low muscle mass and hypertension. However, whether low muscle mass predicts the development of hypertension is unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between relative muscle mass and incident hypertension in a large prospective cohort of Korean adults.

Methods:

In this prospective cohort study, we analyzed 132 324 participants without hypertension at baseline who underwent two health check-ups in 2012 and 2016 or in 2013 and 2017 with a 4-year interval. The participants were divided according to skeletal muscle mass index quartiles (Q1--Q4) according to their baseline skeletal muscle mass index [skeletal muscle mass index (%) = total skeletal muscle mass (kg)/body weight (kg) × 100). Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for the development of hypertension after 4 years.

Results:

After 4 years, 7180 (5.43%) participants developed hypertension. The incidence rates of hypertension were 12.11, 8.58, 6.93, and 4.37% in men and 4.02, 2.29, 1.73, and 1.18% in women in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively. The multivariate adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for incident hypertension in Q1, Q2, and Q3, in comparison with Q4, were 1.46 (1.3–1.63), 1.31 (1.19–1.46), and 1.26 (1.14–1.40) in men and 0.97 (0.76–1.23), 1.12 (0.90–1.38), and 1.14 (0.92–1.42) in women, respectively.

Conclusion:

Low relative skeletal muscle mass was independently and significantly associated with the incidence of hypertension only in Korean men. Further research is required to understand the underlying mechanisms of this relationship.
Metabolic Syndrome Is Associated With Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma
Authors: Roddy Gavin W.
Published: July 2020

Glaucoma remains the world’s leading cause of irreversible blindness and though intraocular pressure (IOP) is the most prevalent risk factor and only reliable therapeutic target, a number of systemic disease associations have been reported. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a constellation of findings that includes systemic hypertension, abdominal obesity, glucose intolerance, and dyslipidemia. MetS is becoming increasingly common worldwide, with prevalence up to 40% in some countries. Not only is MetS a significant cause of morbidity, but it is also associated with an increase in all-cause mortality. Reports have been conflicting regarding the association of individual components of MetS, including systemic hypertension and diabetes, with elevated IOP or glaucoma. However, though limitations in the existing literature are present, current evidence suggests that MetS is associated with IOP as well as glaucoma. Additional studies are needed to clarify this association by incorporating additional metrics including assessment of central corneal thickness as well as optic nerve structure and function. Future studies are also needed to determine whether lifestyle modification or systemic treatment of MetS could reduce the incidence or progression of glaucoma.
Disc-fovea Angle Is Associated With Visual Field Defect Location in Patients With Glaucoma
Authors: Abe Ricardo Y. , Matos Alexis G. , Gracitelli Carolina P.B. , Prata Tiago S. , Ribeiro Guilherme B. , Paula Jayter S.
Published: July 2020

Precis:

The current study showed that glaucomatous eyes from patients with central visual field defects presented less negative disc-fovea angle compared with patients with peripheral defects.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between disc-fovea angle and visual field defect location in patients with glaucoma.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study including glaucoma patients divided into isolated central and isolated peripheral scotoma groups. The main outcome measure was disc-fovea angle measurement between groups. Secondary outcomes included disc-fovea distance, vertical disc diameter, and fovea vertical deviation.

Results:

We included 50 glaucoma patients (50 eyes; 27 with central scotoma and 23 with peripheral scotoma). Mean deviation from visual fields was −3.05±1.67 and −2.95±1.49 dB (P=0.829) (central and peripheral scotoma groups, respectively). We found that eyes in the central group had lower values of disc-fovea angle (−5.85±2.67 vs. −7.97±2.26 degrees, P=0.004), shorter disc-fovea distance (4.38±0.70 vs. 4.98±0.78 mm, P=0.006), and shorter fovea vertical deviation (−0.43±0.19 vs. −0.68±0.22 mm, P<0.001) compared with eyes in the peripheral group.

Conclusions:

This study showed an association between disc-fovea angle and central visual field defects in patients with glaucoma. Our findings suggest that eyes with a less negative disc-fovea angle should undergo a more careful investigation of the central visual field, even at early stages of the disease.
Parainfluenza Virus Infection in an Australian Community-based Birth Cohort
Authors: Saha Sumanta , Grimwood Keith , Lambert Stephen B. , Sarna Mohinder , Ware Robert S.
Published: July 2020

In a community-based birth cohort of 158 Australian infants followed to age 2 years, the incidence rate of human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) was 0.42 (95% CI = 0.33, 0.54) episodes per child-year with episodes occurring year-round, peaking in the spring season. HPIV-3 was the dominant subtype. Overall, 41% of detections were asymptomatic; only 32% of HPIV episodes led to healthcare contact with 1 hospitalization.
Primary Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection Associated With Monoarthritis of the Knee
Authors: Norton Nicholas , Mansbridge Christopher , Pelosi Emanuela , Wilson-Davies Eleri
Published: July 2020

Monoarthritis associated with herpes virus infection is rare and previously only described in herpes simplex type 1, varicella zoster, and Epstein-Barr virus infections. Here, we report a case of monoarthritis of the knee associated with primary herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection in an immunocompetent 50-year-old woman. Herpes simplex virus type 2 DNA was detected in plasma and in the joint fluid. The patient had only mild symptoms of herpes simplex virus type 2, suggesting that virus-associated monoarthritis may be underrecognized and underreported.
Innovative intraocular lens design to manage surgical aphakia in an eye with a filtering bleb
Authors: Madhivanan Nivean , Nivean Pratheeba Devi , Aysha P.A.P. , Arthi M. , Madanagopalan V.G.
Published: July 2020

An innovative intraocular lens (IOL), the CM-T Flex IOL, was used to correct surgical aphakia without disturbing a functioning filtering bleb. A 66-year-old man presented with aphakia in the left eye. Cataract extraction and trabeculectomy was performed in the left eye 2 years previously elsewhere. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) in the left eye was 6/18, and, on examination, it showed a filtering bleb that encroached on the limbus and superior cornea. The cornea was clear with a deep anterior chamber. Retinal examination was normal. Disc cupping was noted with a cup-to-disc ratio of 0.8. Refractive correction was performed by implanting the CM-T Flex IOL. This IOL has a unique design that eliminates the need for maneuvering the IOL haptics extraocularly. It entails a simple grasp, exteriorize, and release technique that anchors the IOL firmly to the scleral bed. At 6 months, CDVA in the left eye was 6/9 with a stable, centered IOL.
Care for patients with musculoskeletal pain during the COVID-19 pandemic: Physical therapy and rehabilitation suggestions for pain management
Authors: Wang Chien-Chih , Chao Jian-Kang , Chang Yu-Hui , Chou Chen-Liang , Kao Chung-Lan
Published: July 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 has severely affected public health. Under social distancing and lockdown policies, patients with musculoskeletal pain have fewer opportunities than usual to receive routine medical care for pain management in hospitals. Therefore, we provided some suggestions for such patients to manage musculoskeletal pain and techniques that may be performed at home during this period.
Free Testosterone and Prolactin Levels and Sperm Morphology and Function Among Male Patients With Tramadol Abuse
Authors: Bassiony Medhat M. , Youssef Usama M. , El-Gohari Hayam
Published: July 2020

Background/Purpose

Tramadol abuse has become a crisis in Egypt and many other Middle Eastern countries. Tramadol abuse is associated with sexual dysfunction and male infertility, according to recent animal and human studies. The objective of this study was to compare tramadol abuse patients and healthy controls regarding free testosterone and prolactin levels and semen analysis.

Methods

Sixty patients with opiate use disorders attributed to tramadol (OUD-T) based onDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(Fifth Edition) diagnostic criteria and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical data and urine, blood, and semen samples were collected from patients and controls for assessment.

Results

Compared with controls, OUD-T patients had higher prolactin and lower free testosterone levels. Patients with OUD-T were more likely to have lower sperm count and higher abnormal motility and forms of sperms compared with controls.

Conclusions

Patients with OUD-T were found to be more likely to have lower free testosterone levels and lower sperm counts and vitality, and higher prolactin levels and sperm abnormal forms compared with controls.
Antidepressants and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kuo Hsin-Ya , Chen Hsiu-Min , Lee Ching-Chih , Lee Hsuan-Han , Kuo Chuan-Jung , Hsu Chun-Sheng , Pan Chih-Chuan , Su Ning , Chu Che-Sheng
Published: July 2020

Purpose/Background

The increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among users of antidepressants (ADs) might be mediated by depression. We investigated whether ADs are associated with increased risk of T2DM in patients with depression. Moreover, the relationship between binding affinities of serotonin transporter (SERT) of ADs and the risk of T2DM is examined.

Methods/Procedures

We conducted a retrospective nested case-control study using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database between 2000 and 2013. A total of 3038 patients with depression, 1519 cases of T2DM, and 1519 controls matched for age, sex, and index date, were included. Exposure to ADs was categorized by type and SERT. The association between AD exposure and T2DM development was assessed using conditional logistic regression analysis.

Findings/Results

No association between T2DM development and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87–1.19; P = 0.962), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (AOR, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.94–1.37; P = 1.196), tricyclic antidepressants (AOR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.85–1.21; P = 0.906), or others (AOR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.75–1.03; P = 0.104) was found. Alternatively, no association between individual ADs and potency of affinity to SERT and the risk of T2DM was found.

Implications/Conclusions

No association between ADs and increase risk of T2DM was found in patients with depression. However, regular metabolic evaluations are recommended for patients with depression regularly taking ADs.
A Modified Grading System for Early Right Heart Failure Matches Functional Outcomes and Survival After Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Grandin E. Wilson , Troutman Gregory S. , Gulati Arune A. , Zamani Payman , Mazurek Jeremy A. , Atluri Pavan , Rame J. Eduardo
Published: July 2020

Early right heart failure (ERHF) remains a common complication after continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (cf-LVAD) and has been associated with increased mortality. The specific criteria used to define ERHF remain somewhat arbitrary. Correlating the degree of ERHF with outcomes after LVAD could inform a more clinically relevant definition. We identified 196 patients who underwent first durable cf-LVAD between 2008 and 2015 at a single center. Postimplant ERHF was graded as absent, mild (requiring inotropic support for 14–20 days), moderate (inotropes for ≥ 21 days), or severe (requiring unplanned RVAD at any time during the index hospitalization). ERHF was associated with clinical outcomes including 1 year survival and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and 6 minute walk distance (6MWD) at 3 and 6 months. Survival was assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method with log-rank testing and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards modeling. Compared to patients without ERHF, those with mild ERHF had similar 1 year survival (hazard ratio [HR] 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26–1.80, p = 0.45), while mortality was substantially increased in patients with moderate (HR 2.65, 95% CI: 1.27–5.54, p = 0.009) and severe ERHF (HR 8.16, 95% CI: 3.97–16.76, p < 0.0001). The severity of ERHF was associated with 6MWD at both 3 months (p = 0.001) and 6 months (p = 0.013). The relationship between ERHF and postimplant survival and functional status persisted in multivariate modeling. A simple, modified grading system for ERHF severity is strongly associated with 1 year survival and functional capacity after cf-LVAD. These results argue against using a binary definition for ERHF and suggest the need to modify definition of ERHF severity.
Flexible endoscopic strategies for the difficult esophageal stricture
Authors: Abad Mary Raina Angeli , Fujiyoshi Yusuke , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: July 2020

Purpose of review

Benign strictures of the esophagus, caused by various causes, are frequently encountered in clinical practice. Although endoscopic dilation is still the standard and first-line therapy, complex and difficult esophageal strictures are still encountered and remain a challenge to endoscopists. The main scope of this review article is to offer a closer look at the different endoscopic modalities and approaches to complex and difficult esophageal strictures.

Recent findings

In the past few years, endoscopic dilatation, stents including self-expandable and biodegradable types, incisional therapy, and pharmacological treatments have been utilized in the prevention and management of refractory and recurrent esophageal strictures. Meanwhile, more recent techniques such as the BougieCap, percutaneous transgastric endoscopic myotomy, through-the-scope stents, radial incision and cutting, etc. have been developed as alternative methods. A number of studies utilizing these newer methods have shown promising results in the treatment of complex and difficult esophageal strictures.

Endoscopic treatment of refractory, complex and difficult esophageal strictures still remains to be a challenge for many endoscopists. While balloon or bougie dilatation still remains to be the first-line approach, other techniques have emerged as treatment alternatives and may become adjunct therapy to endoscopic dilatation.
Expanding indications for pancreatic islet cell transplantation
Authors: Miles Carly B. , Gardner Timothy B.
Published: July 2020

Purpose of review

We aimed to summarize the current state of performing pancreatic islet autotransplantation (IAT) for indications other than total pancreatectomy for chronic pancreatitis.

Recent findings

The current article will review expanded indications for IAT including partial pancreatectomy for benign inflammatory disease, trauma, pancreatic islet cell tumor and pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In the context of more access for IAT as more centers are offering this clinical service, these expanded indications will continue to push the limits of our ability to make IAT accessible.

Pancreatic islet cell transplantation is increasingly being used for new indications related to benign disease and malignancy. We expect continued expansion of its use as IAT becomes more accessible.
Electrodiagnostic Testing of Large Fiber Polyneuropathies: A Review of Existing Guidelines
Authors: Tankisi Hatice , Pugdahl Kirsten , Fuglsang-Frederiksen Anders
Published: July 2020

Electrodiagnostic testing for polyneuropathies is a large part of the diagnostic workup in all electrodiagnostic laboratories. Guidelines on examination and diagnostic strategies and classification of polyneuropathies are crucial for standardization of electrodiagnostic testing and best clinical practice. Several guidelines have been suggested on pathophysiological classification, particularly for the definition of inflammatory neuropathies, whereas for axonal polyneuropathies, the literature is sparse. Similarly, there are a few recommendations on examination and diagnostic strategies. This review will cover the existing guidelines on electrodiagnostic testing of large fiber polyneuropathies including examination and diagnostic strategies and pathophysiological classification. In addition, the diagnostic criteria for Guillain–Barre syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, multifocal motor neuropathy, and hereditary neuropathies are summarized.
Blastobotrys baotianmanensis sp. nov. and Blastobotrys xishuangbannaensis f.a., sp. nov., two novel yeast species associated with insects and rotting wood
Authors: Chai Chun-Yue , Jia Ran-Ran , Chen Chong-Yi , Hui Feng-Li
Published: July 2020

Five yeast strains were isolated from the gut of the groundbeetle Pterostichus gebleri and rotting wood, which were collected from two different localities in China. These strains were identified as representing two novel species of the genus Blastobotrys through comparison of sequences in the D1/D2 domains of the LSU rRNA gene and other taxonomic characteristics. Blastobotrys baotianmanensis sp. nov. produces two to three spherical ascospores per ascus, and is most closely related to the type strains of B. elegans, B. capitulata, B. arbuscula, and an undescribed species represented by strain BG02-7-20-006A-3-1. Blastobotrys baotianmanensis sp. nov. differed from these strains by 3.6–8.4 % divergence (21–46 substitutions and 0–4 gaps) in the D1/D2 sequences. Blastobotrys xishuangbannaensis f.a., sp. nov. is closely related to B. nivea, B. elegans and B. aristata but the formation of ascospores was not observed on various sporulation media, and it differed from its relatives by 6.2–8.5 % divergence (34–43 substitutions and 2–6 gaps) in the D1/D2 sequences. The holotype of Blastobotrys baotianmanensis sp. nov. is NYNU 1581 and the holotype of Blastobotrys xishuangbannaensis f.a., sp. nov. is NYNU 181030.
Mesonia oceanica sp. nov., isolated from oceans during the Tara oceans expedition, with a preference for mesopelagic waters
Authors: Lucena Teresa , Sanz-Sáez Isabel , Arahal David R. , Acinas Silvia G. , Sánchez Olga , Pedrós-Alió Carlos , Aznar Rosa , Pujalte María J.
Published: July 2020

Strain ISS653T, isolated from Atlantic seawater, is a yellow pigmented, non-motile, Gram-reaction-negative rod-shaped bacterium, strictly aerobic and chemoorganotrophic, slightly halophilic (1–15 % NaCl) and mesophilic (4–37 °C), oxidase- and catalase-positive and proteolytic. Its major cellular fatty acids are iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0 2-OH, and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH; the major identified phospholipid is phosphatidylethanolamine and the major respiratory quinone is MK6. Genome size is 4.28 Mbp and DNA G+C content is 34.9 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity places the strain among members of the family Flavobacteriaceae, with the type strains of

Mesonia phycicola

(93.2 %),

Salegentibacter mishustinae

(93.1 %) and

Mesonia mobilis

(92.9 %) as closest relatives. Average amino acid identity (AAI) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) indices show highest values with

M. mobilis

(81 % AAI; 78.9 % ANI),

M. phycicola

(76 % AAI; 76.3 % ANI),

Mesonia maritima

(72 % AAI, 74.9 % ANI),

Mesonia hippocampi

(64 % AAI, 70.8 % ANI) and

Mesonia algae

(68 % AAI; 72.2 % ANI). Phylogenomic analysis using the Up-to-date-Bacterial Core Gene set (UBCG) merges strain ISS653T in a clade with species of the genus

Mesonia

. We conclude that strain ISS653T represents a novel species of the genus

Mesonia

for which we propose the name Mesonia oceanica sp. nov., and strain ISS653T (=CECT 9532T=LMG 31236T) as the type strain. A second strain of the species, ISS1889 (=CECT 30008) was isolated from Pacific Ocean seawater. Data obtained throughout the Tara oceans expedition indicate that the species is more abundant in the mesopelagic dark ocean than in the photic layer and it is more frequent in the South Pacific, Indian and North Atlantic oceans.
Halovulum marinum sp. nov., isolated from deep-sea water of the Indian Ocean, and emended description of the genus Halovulum
Authors: Ruan Chu-Jin , Wang Jian , Zheng Xiao-Wei , Song Lei , Zhu Ya-Xin , Huang Ying , Lu Zu-Jun , Du Wen-Bin , Huang Li , Dai Xin
Published: July 2020

A novel Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, motile by peritrichous ﬂagella, oval to rod-shaped bacterium, designated strain 2CG4T, was isolated from a deep-sea water sample collected from the Northwest Indian Ocean. The results of phylogenetic analysis of both 16S rRNA gene and RpoC protein sequences indicated that this strain was affiliated with the genus

Halovulum

in the

Amaricoccus

clade of the family

Rhodobacteraceae

of the class

Alphaproteobacteria

, sharing 95.3 % similarity at the 16S rRNA gene sequence level with the type strain of

Halovulum dunhuangense

YYQ-30T, the only species in the genus

Halovulum

. The predominant fatty acids (>10 %) of 2CG4T were summed feature 8 (C18 : 1ω7c and/ or C18 : 1ω6c; 61.1 %) and cyclo-C19 : 0ω8c (15.6 %). The polar lipids of 2CG4T were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylmethylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine and sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol. The only isoprenoid quinone of 2CG4T was ubiquinone-10. The DNA G+C content of 2CG4T was determined to be 69.4 %. The central gene pufLM for the photosynthetic reaction was not detected. No growth occurred for 2CG4T in the absence of NaCl. On the basis of these data, it is concluded that the 2CG4T represents a novel species of the genus

Halovulum

, for which the name Halovulum marinum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 2CG4T (=CGMCC 1.16468T=JCM 32611T).
Alteromonas profundi sp. nov., isolated from the Indian Ocean
Authors: Shen Xudong , Zhu Sidong , Dong Bingxia , Chen Yong , Xue Zehao , Ren Na , Chen Ting , Chen Xiunuan , Yang Jifang , Chen Jigang
Published: July 2020

A Gram-staining-negative bacterium, designated 345S023T, was isolated from a sea water sample from the Indian Ocean. The results of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that 345S023T represents a member of the genus

Alteromonas

, with closely related type strains

Alteromonas fortis

1T (98.7 %),

Alteromonas hispanica

F-32T (98.6 %) and

Alteromonas genovensis

LMG 24078T (98.6 %). Up-to-date bacterial core gene set analysis revealed that 345S023T formed a phyletic lineage with

Alteromonas australica

H 17T. The case for 345S023T representing a novel species was supported by genomic results. Pairwise in silico DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values were much lower than the proposed and generally accepted species boundaries. Strain 345S023T contains ubiquinone-8 (Q-8) as the sole isoprenoid quinone, summed featured 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or C16 : 1ω6c), C16 : 0 and C18 : 1ω7c as the dominant cellular fatty acids (>10 %), and phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine as the major polar lipids. The genome of strain 345S023T consisted of a 4.4 Mb chromosome with a DNA G+C content of 44.4 %. On the basis of these genomic, chemotaxonomic and phenotypic characteristics, we propose a novel species: Alteromonas profundi sp. nov. The type strain is 345S023T(=JCM 33893T=MCCC 1K04570T).
Lactococcus insecticola sp. nov. and Lactococcus hodotermopsidis sp. nov., isolated from the gut of the wood-feeding lower termite Hodotermopsis sjostedti
Authors: Noda Satoko , Koyama Fumiya , Aihara Chihiro , Ikeyama Nao , Yuki Masahiro , Ohkuma Moriya , Sakamoto Mitsuo
Published: July 2020

Two strains of lactic acid bacteria, designated Hs20B0-1T and Hs30E4-3T, were isolated from the gut of the damp-wood termite Hodotermopsis sjostedti. These strains were characterized genetically and phenotypically. Strain Hs20B0-1T was related to

Lactococcus piscium

DSM 6634T showing 96.3 and 84.2 % sequence similarity in 16S rRNA gene and rpoB gene sequences, respectively. Strain Hs30E4-3T was related to

Lactococcus plantarum

DSM 20686T showing 94.8 and 82.2 % sequence similarity in 16S rRNA gene and rpoB gene sequences, respectively. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between strains Hs20B0-1T and Hs30E4-3T was 95.7 %. Furthermore, genomic comparisons using pairwise average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (DDH) analyses between strain Hs20B0-1T and

L. piscium

DSM 6634T resulted in values of 73.5 and 20.1 %, respectively. Strain Hs30E4-3T had 72.8 % ANI similarity and 21.3 % DDH similarity to

L. plantarum

DSM 20686T. Strains Hs20B0-1T and Hs30E4-3T had 75.4 % ANI similarity and 21.1 % DDH similarity to each other. The cell-wall peptidoglycan types of strains Hs20B0-1T and Hs30E4-3T were A4α, Lys-Asp and A3α, Lys–Thr–Ala, respectively. The two strains, Hs20B0-1T and Hs30E4-3T, are distinguishable from each other and other established

Lactococcus

species phylogenetically and phenotypically. In conclusion, two novel species of the genus

Lactococcus

are proposed, namely Lactococcus insecticola Hs20B0-1T (=JCM 33485T=DSM 110147T) and Lactococcus hodotermopsidis Hs30E4-3T (=JCM 33486T=DSM 110148T), respectively.
Acinetobacter portensis sp. nov. and Acinetobacter guerrae sp. nov., isolated from raw meat
Authors: Carvalheira Ana , Gonzales-Siles Lucia , Salvà-Serra Francisco , Lindgren Åsa , Svensson-Stadler Liselott , Thorell Kaisa , Piñeiro-Iglesias Beatriz , Karlsson Roger , Silva Joana , Teixeira Paula , Moore Edward R. B.
Published: July 2020

The taxonomic status of six strains of

Acinetobacter

obtained from meat samples, collected from supermarkets in Porto, Portugal, was investigated using polyphasic analysis. Partial rpoB sequence similarities lower than 95 % to other

Acinetobacter

species with validly published names led to the hypothesis that these strains represented novel species. This was confirmed based on comparative multilocus sequence analysis, which included the gyrB, recA and 16S rRNA genes, revealing that these strains represented two coherent lineages that were distinct from each other and from all known species. The names Acinetobacter portensis sp. nov. (comprising four strains) and Acinetobacter guerrae sp. nov. (comprising two strains) are proposed for these novel species. The species status of these two groups was confirmed by low (below 95 %) whole-genome sequence average nucleotide identity values and low (below 70 %) digital DNA–DNA hybridization similarities between the whole-genome sequences of the proposed type strains of each novel species and the representatives of the known

Acinetobacter

species. Phylogenomic treeing from core genome analysis supported these results. The coherence of each new species lineage was supported by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry differentiation of the species at the protein level, by cellular fatty acid profiles, and by unique and differential combinations of metabolic and physiological properties shared by each novel species. The type strain of A. portensis sp. nov. is AC 877T (=CCUG 68672T=CCM 8789T) and the type strain of A. guerrae sp. nov. is AC 1271T (=CCUG 68674T=CCM 8791T).
High-efficiency nonhomologous insertion of a foreign gene into the herpes simplex virus genome
Authors: Gong Yue , Bi Yanwei , Li Zhihua , Li Yuzhong , Yao Yueting , Long Qiong , Pu Tao , Chen Chen , Liu Tongyun , Dong Shaozhong , Cun Wei
Published: July 2020

Efficient, accurate and convenient foreign-gene insertion strategies are crucial for the high-throughput and rapid construction of large DNA viral vectors, but relatively inefficient and labour-intensive methods have limited the application of recombinant viruses. In this study, we applied the nonhomologous insertion (NHI) strategy, which is based on the nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) repair pathway. Compared to the currently used homologous recombination (HR) strategy, we obtained a higher efficiency of foreign-gene insertion into the herpes simplex virus (HSV) genome that reached 45 % after optimization. By using NHI, we rapidly constructed recombinant reporter viruses using a small amount of clinical viruses, and the recombinant virus was stable for at least ten consecutive passages. The fidelity of NHI ranged from 70–100% and was related to the sequence background of the insertion site according to the sequencing results. Finally, we depict the dynamic process by which the foreign-gene donor plasmid and viral genome are rapidly cleaved by Cas9, as revealed by quantitative pulse analysis. Furthermore, the NHI strategy exerted selection pressure on the wild-type and reverse-integrated viral genomes to efficiently integrate the foreign gene in a predetermined direction. Our results indicate that the use of a rationally designed NHI strategy can allow rapid and efficient foreign gene knock-in into the HSV genome and provide useful guidance for gene insertion into large DNA viral genomes using NHI.