bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of an alternative feed additive, containing benzoic acid, thymol, eugenol, and piperine, improved growth performance, nutrient and energy digestibility, and gut health in weaned piglets
Authors: Silva Júnior Cláudio D , Martins Cláudia C S , Dias Francine T F , Sitanaka Natália Y , Ferracioli Letícia B , Moraes José E , Pizzolante Carla C , Budiño Fábio E L , Pereira Rafaela , Tizioto Polyana , Paula Vinicius R C , Coutinho Luiz L , Ruiz Urbano S
Published: April 2020

This research evaluated a feed additive (benzoic acid, eugenol, thymol, and piperine), associated or not with colistin, in weaned piglets feeding. The parameters evaluated were growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients, diarrhea incidence, intestinal morphology, relative weights of digestive organs, microbial diversity, and the percentages of operational taxonomic units of microorganisms in the cecum content of pigs. One-hundred and eight crossbred piglets (5.3 ± 0.5 kg) were used in a three-phase feeding program (21 to 35, 36 to 50, 51 to 65 d of age) and fed a control diet with no inclusion of growth promoter feed additive, a diet with 40 ppm of colistin, a diet with 0.3% of alternative additive, and a diet with 0.3% of alternative additive and 40 ppm of colistin. The diets were based on corn, soybean meal, dairy products, and spray-dried blood plasma and formulated to provide 3.40, 3.38, and 3.20 Mcal of ME/kg and 14.5, 13.3, and 10.9 g/kg of digestible lysine, in phases 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The piglets were housed three per pen, with nine replicates per diet, in a complete randomized block design based on initial BW. The data were submitted to ANOVA and means were separated by Tukey test (5%), using SAS. Pigs fed diets with the alternative feed additive had greater (P < 0.05) ADG (114.3 vs. 91.8 g) and ADFI (190.1 vs. 163.3 g) in phase 1 than pigs fed diets without the product. The alternative additive improved (P < 0.05) ATTD of crude protein (CP) in phase 1 (71.0% vs. 68.6%), gross energy in phases 1 (77.4% vs. 75.2%) and 3 (79.0% vs. 77.1%), and dry matter in phase 3 (79.1% vs. 77.1%). The antibiotic inclusion in the diets increased (P < 0.05) ATTD of CP in phase 1 (71.5% vs. 68.2%). The alternative feed additive tended (P = 0.06) to increase (46%) normal feces frequency, decreased (P < 0.05) goblet cells count (104.3 vs. 118.1) in the jejunum, and decreased (P < 0.05) small intestine (4.60% vs. 4.93%) and colon (1.41% vs. 1.65%) relative weights, compared with pigs not fed with the alternative additive. There was a tendency (P = 0.09) for a lower concentration of Escherichia–Shigella (1.46% vs. 3.5%) and lower (P < 0.05) percentage of Campylobacter (0.52% vs. 10.21%) in the cecum content of piglets fed diets containing essential oils and benzoic acid compared with pigs fed diets without the alternative feed additive. The alternative feed additive was effective in improving growth performance, diets digestibility, and gut health in piglets soon after weaning.
Insecticide Responses in the Collembola Pest, Sminthurus viridis (Collembola: Sminthuridae), in Australia
Authors: Arthur Aston L , Babineau Marielle , Umina Paul A
Published: April 2020

Lucerne flea (Sminthurus viridis Linnaeus) is an important establishment pest of winter grain crops and pastures in Australia. Control of S. viridis largely relies on the application of insecticides through foliar sprays or seed treatments; however, in recent years, farmers have faced increasing difficulties managing this pest. This is likely due to their high inherent tolerance to certain chemicals, although there are increasing concerns around emerging resistance. Despite this, there have been no studies worldwide investigating insecticide sensitivity shifts on S. viridis. Further, there is currently no established method to test the response of S. viridis to neonicotinoids, which are now widely used to protect many crops attacked by this species. Here, we established a robust and sensitive bioassay methodology to test neonicotinoids against S. viridis. We also generated important sensitivity data for the first time across multiple S. viridis populations from geographically distinct regions in Australia to two commonly used insecticides, omethoate, and imidacloprid. While there was variation in responses between populations for both chemicals, there is no evidence to suggest insecticide resistance has evolved in the field. This study is an important step for future monitoring of insecticide resistance in S. viridis, particularly given the considerable selection pressure imposed on this pest in Australia and its purported high-risk of evolving resistance.
Piety in Print: The Vaishnava Periodicals of Colonial Bengal
Authors: Dey Santanu
Published: April 2020

The voluminous corpus of Bengali Vaishnava periodical literature remains largely untapped in scholarship on Bengali Vaishnavism and colonial Hinduism more broadly. This article explores a range of Bengali Vaishnava periodicals from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in order to understand the complex ways in which educated Vaishnavas sought to forge points of convergence for Vaishnava culture within the colonial Bengali public sphere. The ensuing investigation will, it is hoped, demonstrate both the centrality and versatility of the role of the periodical in the broad and multiplex program of Vaishnava retrieval in colonial Bengal.
Intersections of the Real and the Virtual Caliphates: The Islamic State's Territory and Media Campaign
Authors: Kaczkowski Wojciech , Winkler Carol , El Damanhoury Kareem , Luu Yennhi
Published: April 2020

In 2014, the Islamic State (ISIS) emerged as one of the most prominent global security threats after securing large swaths of land in Syria and Iraq. By 2018, it has lost nearly all of its territory to the various military forces allied against it. ISIS's territorial expansion correlated with the group's online propaganda activities. With the established contribution of online media efforts to ISIS recruitment and fundraising, isolating factors that correspond to changes in the group's media output takes on added importance. The following study, designed to track ISIS's territorial expansions and contractions from July 2014 to September 2018 against the group's visual output levels and content, seeks to resolve such disputes by both expanding the period of analysis and deconflating land acquisition from other possible variables of analysis. Specifically, the study explores the relationship between territorial control and the visual imagery in ISIS's two English-language online magazines, Dabiq and Rumiyah, across all published issues from July 2014 until September 2017. It also examines any territorial links to the visual imagery in al-Naba’, the group's Arabic-language newsletter, from December 2015 until September 2018. We find that territorial control is significantly associated with changes in the number of images for all publications. Furthermore, we observe an overall trend from military to state-building imagery as territorial losses occur. Thus, territorial changes appeared to influence ISIS's messaging as the group tried to reassure its readers of its continued state presence through a shift toward state-building imagery.
Internal hernia of the stomach through the lateral space of the colostomy: a case report
Authors: Shinohara Kentaro , Suzuki Masahiko , Asaba Yutaro , Maeta Takao , Ishida Tomoyuki , Mizukami Yasunobu
Published: April 2020

An 81-year-old woman had undergone laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer. A permanent colostomy was created through an intraperitoneal route. Three months after the surgery, the patient presented with lower abdominal pain and vomiting. Computed tomography showed gastric incarceration through the lateral space of the lifted sigmoid colostomy. Although the herniated stomach was reduced by nasogastric tube decompression, the patient experienced a recurrence of gastric hernia shortly thereafter. A laparoscopic operation was performed, and a new colostomy was constructed through an extraperitoneal route. The patient had no hernia recurrence during the 20 months of follow-up after the operation. Gastric internal hernia associated with colostomy can occur as a rare complication. Although reduction of the incarcerated stomach is possible by nasogastric tube decompression, surgical repair of the hernia may be the optimal management to prevent recurrence.
Seizure as the first manifestation of transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis
Authors: Moussa Mohamad , Chakra Mohamed Abou , Dabboucy Baraa , Papatsoris Athanasios G , Fares Youssef
Published: April 2020

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is a rare genitourinary entity of the renal pelvis and the ureter characterized by an aggressive behavior. Cisplatin-based chemotherapy is the first-line therapy of metastatic UTUC. However, a large number of patients with metastatic UTUC are considered ineligible for cisplatin. Immunotherapy emerged as a promising treatment in this setting. Brain metastasis from UTUC is unusual, occurring most often in the presence of systemic metastases. Local therapies such as stereotactic radiosurgery, neurosurgical resection and whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) remain the main therapeutic options for brain metastasis. We report a case of a 65-year-old male patient presenting with generalized tonic–clonic seizure. Imaging studies confirmed the presence of multiple brain metastasis. During an evaluation for the primary, he was found to be having metastatic UTUC of the renal pelvis. The brain metastases were treated by hippocampal sparing WBRT with minimal neurotoxicity. The primary tumor was treated by pembrolizumab.
High genetic variability of clinical and environmental Cryptococcus gattii isolates from Brazil
Authors: Vilas-Bôas Anderson Mançan , Andrade-Silva Leonardo Euripedes , Ferreira-Paim Kennio , Mora Delio José , Ferreira Thatiana Bragine , Santos Daniel de Assis , Borges Aercio Sebastião , Melhem Marcia de Souza Carvalho , Silva-Vergara Mario Léon
Published: April 2020

Among Cryptococcus gattii genotypes, VGII has gained pivotal relevance in epidemiological, clinical and genetic contexts due to its association with several outbreaks in temperate regions and due to the high variability of this genotype. The aim of this study was to compare 25 isolates of C. gattii from the Southeast region of Brazil with previously described isolates from other regions of the country and around the world. Among the 25 isolates, 24 were VGII and one was VGI. All of them were newly identified. Three new allele types (AT) (AT47 for the URA5 locus, AT56 for the LAC1 locus, and AT96 for the IGS1 region) were also described. Compared with other Brazilian isolates, those from the Southeast region presented the greatest haplotype diversity. In general, the regions presented different sequence types (STs), and only nine STs were found in more than one location. GoeBURST analysis showed two large groups among the Brazilian isolates. The largest group consists of 59 STs predominantly from the North and Northeast regions; the other large group includes 57 STs from the Southeast and Midwest regions. In a global context the South American isolates presented the highest genetic diversity (STs = 145, haplotype diversity (Hd) = 0.999 and π = 0.00464), while the African populations showed the lowest genetic diversity (STs = 3, Hd = 0.667 and π = 0.00225). These results confirm that the Brazilian C. gattii VGII population is highly diverse and reinforce the hypothesis of dispersion of this genotype from South America.
Comments on ‘Type II migration strikes back – an old paradigm for planet migration in discs’ by Scardoni et al.
Authors: Kanagawa Kazuhiro D , Tanaka Hidekazu
Published: April 2020

In the conventional view of type II migration, a giant planet migrates inward in the viscous velocity of the accretion disc in the so-called disc-dominate case. Recent hydrodynamic simulations, however, showed that planets migrate with velocities much faster than the viscous one in massive discs. Such fast migration cannot be explained by the conventional picture. Scardoni et al. has recently argued this new picture. By carrying out similar hydrodynamic simulations, they found that the migration velocity slows down with time and eventually reaches the prediction by the conventional theory. They interpreted the fast migration as an initial transient one and concluded that the conventional type II migration is realized after the transient phase. We show that the migration velocities obtained by Scardoni et al. are consistent with the previous simulations even in the transient phase that they proposed. We also find that the transient fast migration proposed by Scardoni et al. is well described by a new model of Kanagawa, Tanaka & Szuszkiewicz. The new model can appropriately describe significant inward migration during the initial transient phase that Scardoni et al. termed. Hence, we conclude that the time variation of the transient migration velocity is due to the changes of the orbital radius of the planet and its background surface density during the migration.
Identifying strong lenses with unsupervised machine learning using convolutional autoencoder
Authors: Cheng Ting-Yun , Li Nan , Conselice Christopher J , Aragón-Salamanca Alfonso , Dye Simon , Metcalf Robert B
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we develop a new unsupervised machine learning technique comprised of a feature extractor, a convolutional autoencoder, and a clustering algorithm consisting of a Bayesian Gaussian mixture model. We apply this technique to visual band space-based simulated imaging data from the Euclid Space Telescope using data from the strong gravitational lenses finding challenge. Our technique promisingly captures a variety of lensing features such as Einstein rings with different radii, distorted arc structures, etc., without using predefined labels. After the clustering process, we obtain several classification clusters separated by different visual features which are seen in the images. Our method successfully picks up ∼63 per cent of lensing images from all lenses in the training set. With the assumed probability proposed in this study, this technique reaches an accuracy of 77.25 ± 0.48 per cent in binary classification using the training set. Additionally, our unsupervised clustering process can be used as the preliminary classification for future surveys of lenses to efficiently select targets and to speed up the labelling process. As the starting point of the astronomical application using this technique, we not only explore the application to gravitationally lensed systems, but also discuss the limitations and potential future uses of this technique.
The milky way total mass profile as inferred from Gaia DR2
Authors: Cautun Marius , Benítez-Llambay Alejandro , Deason Alis J , Frenk Carlos S , Fattahi Azadeh , Gómez Facundo A , Grand Robert J J , Oman Kyle A , Navarro Julio F , Simpson Christine M
Published: April 2020

We determine the Milky Way (MW) mass profile inferred from fitting physically motivated models to the Gaia DR2 Galactic rotation curve and other data. Using various hydrodynamical simulations of MW-mass haloes, we show that the presence of baryons induces a contraction of the dark matter (DM) distribution in the inner regions, r ≲ 20 kpc. We provide an analytic expression that relates the baryonic distribution to the change in the DM halo profile. For our galaxy, the contraction increases the enclosed DM halo mass by factors of roughly 1.3, 2, and 4 at radial distances of 20, 8, and 1 kpc, respectively compared to an uncontracted halo. Ignoring this contraction results in systematic biases in the inferred halo mass and concentration. We provide a best-fitting contracted NFW halo model to the MW rotation curve that matches the data very well.1 The best-fit has a DM halo mass, $M_{200}^{\rm DM}=0.97_{-0.19}^{+0.24}\times 10^{12}\,\mathrm{M}_\odot$, and concentration before baryon contraction of $9.4_{-2.6}^{+1.9}$, which lie close to the median halo mass–concentration relation predicted in ΛCDM. The inferred total mass, $M_{200}^{\rm total}=1.08_{-0.14}^{+0.20} \times 10^{12}\,\mathrm{M}_\odot$, is in good agreement with recent measurements. The model gives an MW stellar mass of $5.04_{-0.52}^{+0.43}\times 10^{10}\,\mathrm{M}_\odot$ and infers that the DM density at the Solar position is $\rho _{\odot }^{\rm DM}=8.8_{-0.5}^{+0.5}\times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{M}_\odot \,\mathrm{pc}^{-3}\equiv 0.33_{-0.02}^{+0.02}\,\rm {GeV}\,\rm {cm}^{-3}$. The rotation curve data can also be fitted with an uncontracted NFW halo model, but with very different DM and stellar parameters. The observations prefer the physically motivated contracted NFW halo, but the measurement uncertainties are too large to rule out the uncontracted NFW halo.
Explaining the chemical trajectories of accreted and in-situ halo stars of the Milky Way
Authors: Brook Chris B , Kawata Daisuke , Gibson Brad K , Gallart Carme , Vicente Andrés
Published: April 2020

The Milky Way underwent its last significant merger ten billion years ago, when the Gaia-Enceladus-Sausage (GES) was accreted. Accreted GES stars and progenitor stars born prior to the merger make up the bulk of the inner halo. Even though these two main populations of halo stars have similar durations of star formation prior to their merger, they differ in [α/Fe]-[Fe/H] space, with the GES population bending to lower [α/Fe] at a relatively low value of [Fe/H]. We use cosmological simulations of a ‘Milky Way’ to argue that the different tracks of the halo stars through the [α/Fe]-[Fe/H] plane are due to a difference in their star formation history and efficiency, with the lower mass GES having its low and constant star formation regulated by feedback whilst the higher mass main progenitor has a higher star formation rate prior to the merger. The lower star formation efficiency of GES leads to lower gas pollution levels, pushing [α/Fe]-[Fe/H] tracks to the left. In addition, the increasing star formation rate maintains a higher relative contribution of Type II SNe to Type Ia SNe for the main progenitor population that formed during the same time period, thus maintaining a relatively high [α/Fe]. Thus the different positions of the downturns in the [α/Fe]-[Fe/H] plane for the GES stars are not reflective of different star formation durations, but instead reflect different star formation efficiencies.
Cosmic archaeology with massive stellar black hole binaries
Authors: Graziani L , Schneider R , Marassi S , Del Pozzo W , Mapelli M , Giacobbo N
Published: April 2020

The existence of massive stellar black hole binaries (MBHBs), with primary black hole masses $\ge 31 \, \mathrm{ M}_\odot$, was proven by the detection of the gravitational wave (GW) event GW150914 during the first LIGO/Virgo observing run (O1), and successively confirmed by seven additional GW signals discovered in the O1 and O2 data. By adopting the galaxy formation model gamesh coupled with binary population synthesis (BPS) calculations, here we investigate the origin of these MBHBs by selecting simulated binaries compatible in mass and coalescence redshifts. We find that their cosmic birth rates peak in the redshift range 6.5 ≤ z ≤ 10, regardless of the adopted BPS. These MBHBs are then old systems forming in low-metallicity ($Z \sim [0.01\!-\!0.1] \, Z_{\odot }$), low-stellar-mass galaxies, before the end of cosmic reionization, i.e. significantly beyond the peak of cosmic star formation. GW signals generated by coalescing MBHBs open up new possibilities to probe the nature of stellar populations in remote galaxies, at present too faint to be detected by available electromagnetic facilities.
Nono deficiency compromises TET1 chromatin association and impedes neuronal differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Li Wenjing , Karwacki-Neisius Violetta , Ma Chun , Tan Li , Shi Yang , Wu Feizhen , Shi Yujiang Geno
Published: April 2020

NONO is a DNA/RNA-binding protein, which plays a critical regulatory role during cell stage transitions of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). However, its function in neuronal lineage commitment and the molecular mechanisms of its action in such processes are largely unknown. Here we report that NONO plays a key role during neuronal differentiation of mESCs. Nono deletion impedes neuronal lineage commitment largely due to a failure of up-regulation of specific genes critical for neuronal differentiation. Many of the NONO regulated genes are also DNA demethylase TET1 targeted genes. Importantly, re-introducing wild type NONO to the Nono KO cells, not only restores the normal expression of the majority of NONO/TET1 coregulated genes but also rescues the defective neuronal differentiation of Nono-deficient mESCs. Mechanistically, our data shows that NONO directly interacts with TET1 via its DNA binding domain and recruits TET1 to genomic loci to regulate 5-hydroxymethylcytosine levels. Nono deletion leads to a significant dissociation of TET1 from chromatin and dysregulation of DNA hydroxymethylation of neuronal genes. Taken together, our findings reveal a key role and an epigenetic mechanism of action of NONO in regulation of TET1-targeted neuronal genes, offering new functional and mechanistic understanding of NONO in stem cell functions, lineage commitment and specification.
Rights in Search of Protection†
Authors: Weinrib Jacob
Published: April 2020

In Where Our Protection Lies, Dimitrios Kyritsis develops an innovative constitutional framework that aims to reconcile two commitments: democratic governance and the protection of fundamental rights. This review article argues that the reconciliation fails to provide fundamental rights with meaningful protection. On the one hand, the framework’s moral resources hollow out the duties that rights impose on legislatures. Instead of protecting persons from the abusive exercise of legislative power, the framework narrows what constitutes abuse. On the other hand, the framework’s institutional resources leave persons without the means of vindicating their rights. What Kyritsis terms protection consists in the ongoing susceptibility to the violation of one’s fundamental rights.
Star cluster formation in Orion A
Authors: Lim Wanggi , Nakamura Fumitaka , Wu Benjamin , Bisbas Thomas G , Tan Jonathan C , Chambers Edward , Bally John , Kong Shuo , McGehee Peregrine , Lis Dariusz C , Ossenkopf-Okada Volker , Sánchez-Monge Álvaro
Published: April 2020

We introduce new analysis methods for studying the star cluster formation processes in Orion A, especially examining the scenario of a cloud–cloud collision. We utilize the CARMA–NRO Orion survey 13CO (1–0) data to compare molecular gas to the properties of young stellar objects from the SDSS III IN-SYNC survey. We show that the increase of $v_{\rm {}^{13}CO} - v_{\rm YSO}$ and Σ scatter of older YSOs can be signals of cloud–cloud collision. SOFIA-upGREAT 158 μm [C ii] archival data toward the northern part of Orion A are also compared to the 13CO data to test whether the position and velocity offsets between the emission from these two transitions resemble those predicted by a cloud–cloud collision model. We find that the northern part of Orion A, including regions ONC-OMC-1, OMC-2, OMC-3, and OMC-4, shows qualitative agreements with the cloud–cloud collision scenario, while in one of the southern regions, NGC 1999, there is no indication of such a process in causing the birth of new stars. On the other hand, another southern cluster, L 1641 N, shows slight tendencies of cloud–cloud collision. Overall, our results support the cloud–cloud collision process as being an important mechanism for star cluster formation in Orion A.
Magmatic and Metasomatic Effects of Magma–Carbonate Interaction Recorded in Calc-silicate Xenoliths from Merapi Volcano (Indonesia)
Authors: Whitley Sean , Halama Ralf , Gertisser Ralf , Preece Katie , Deegan Frances M , Troll Valentin R
Published: April 2020

Magma–carbonate interaction is an increasingly recognized process occurring at active volcanoes worldwide, with implications for the magmatic evolution of the host volcanic systems, their eruptive behaviour, volcanic CO2 budgets, and economic mineralization. Abundant calc-silicate skarn xenoliths are found at Merapi volcano, Indonesia. We identify two distinct xenolith types: magmatic skarn xenoliths, which contain evidence of formation within the magma; and exoskarn xenoliths, which more likely represent fragments of crystalline metamorphosed wall rocks. The magmatic skarn xenoliths comprise distinct compositional and mineralogical zones with abundant Ca-enriched glass (up to 10 wt % relative to lava groundmass), mineralogically dominated by clinopyroxene (En15-43Fs14-36Wo41-51) + plagioclase (An37-100) ± magnetite in the outer zones towards the lava contact, and by wollastonite ± clinopyroxene (En17-38Fs8-34Wo49-59) ± plagioclase (An46-100) ± garnet (Grs0-65Adr24-75Sch0-76) ± quartz in the xenolith cores. These zones are controlled by Ca transfer from the limestone protolith to the magma and by the transfer of magma-derived elements in the opposite direction. In contrast, the exoskarn xenoliths are unzoned and essentially glass-free, representing equilibration at sub-solidus conditions. The major mineral assemblage in the exoskarn xenoliths is wollastonite + garnet (Grs73-97Adr3-24) + Ca-Al-rich clinopyroxene (CaTs0-38) + anorthite ± quartz, with variable amounts of either quartz or melilite (Geh42-91) + spinel. Thermobarometric calculations, fluid-inclusion microthermometry and newly calibrated oxybarometry based on Fe3+/ΣFe in clinopyroxene indicate magmatic skarn xenolith formation conditions of ∼850 ± 45°C, < 100 MPa and at an oxygen fugacity between the NNO (nickel–nickel oxide) and HM (hematite-magnetite) buffer. The exoskarn xenoliths, in turn, formed at 510–910°C under oxygen-fugacity conditions between NNO and air. These high oxygen fugacities are likely imposed by the large volumes of CO2 liberated from the carbonate. Halogen- and sulphur-rich mineral phases in the xenoliths testify to infiltration by a magmatic brine. In some xenoliths, this is associated with the precipitation of copper-bearing mineral phases by sulphur dissociation into sulphide and sulphate, indicating potential mineralization in the skarn system below Merapi. The compositions of many xenolith clinopyroxene and plagioclase crystals overlap with that of magmatic minerals, suggesting that the crystal cargo in Merapi magmas may contain a larger proportion of skarn-derived xenocrysts than previously recognized. Assessment of xenolith formation timescales demonstrates that magma–carbonate interaction and associated CO2 release could affect eruption intensity, as recently suggested for Merapi and similar carbonate-hosted volcanoes elsewhere.
A Singular Nonlinear History-Dependent Cohesive Zone Model: Is it Possible?
Authors: Argatov I I
Published: April 2020

A history-dependent cohesive zone model is considered in the linear elasticity framework with the cohesive stresses governed by the fracture condition formulated in terms of a nonlinear Abel-type integral operator. A possibility for the cohesive stresses to possess a weak singularity has been examined by utilizing asymptotic modeling approach. It has been shown that the balance of the leading-term asymptotic representations in the model equations is possible for nonsingular cohesive stresses only.
Religious Freedom and Local Conflict: Religious Buildings and Zoning Issues in the New York City Region, 1992–2017
Authors: Miller Brian J
Published: April 2020

Religious freedom in the United States is negotiated in local conflicts arising from proposals from religious groups to municipalities in order to use or alter land and buildings. This study examines 116 cases of zoning conflict involving religious buildings in the New York City region between 1992 and 2017 as reported by the New York Times. Jewish and Muslim congregations experienced opposition at higher rates compared to their proportion in the region’s population and to Christians. Proposing to use a single-family home for worship or use a building near residences topped local concerns. Neighbors regularly expressed worries about traffic, parking, and preservation. More zoning controversies occurred in the suburbs. These findings advance our knowledge of religious freedom and pluralism in detailing how local religious land conflicts involving multiple social actors operating at different levels engage larger questions about religious gatherings, ideal land uses, and the character of communities.
Effects of a vitamin and mineral bolus on beef heifer feedlot performance, feeding behavior, carcass characteristics, and liver mineral concentrations1
Authors: McCarthy Kacie L , Underdahl Sarah R , Dahlen Carl R
Published: April 2020

Crossbred beef heifers (n = 23; initial body weight [BW] = 370 ± 12 kg) housed at the North Dakota State University Beef Cattle Research Complex in Fargo, ND, were used to evaluate the effects of a 250-d slow-release vitamin and mineral bolus on feedlot performance, feeding behavior, carcass characteristics, and liver mineral concentrations. Heifers were assigned to one of two treatments: 1) received no supplemental mineral or vitamin (CON, n = 12) or 2) received two boluses on day 0 (minimum of 3,740 mg Ca, 16,456 mg Mg, 112 mg Na, 11,220 mg Cu, 2,995 mg I, 2,805 mg Mn, 505 mg Se, 48,620 mg Zn, 468 mg Co, 824,296 IU vitamin A, 173,102 IU vitamin D3, and 4,121 IU vitamin E bases on company analysis; Reloader 250 Mineral Bolus, Cargill Inc., Minneapolis, MN; MIN, n = 11). Heifers were fed a total mixed ration containing corn silage, grass hay, dried distillers grains with solubles, and dry-rolled corn (16.05% crude protein, 1.44 Mcal/kg NEg) with no added vitamin or mineral supplement. Feed intake and number and time of visits were recorded for each heifer using the Insentec feeding system (Hokofarm Group B.V., the Netherlands) during the feeding period. Liver biopsies were collected from heifers on days 0, 69, and 134 of the feeding period for analysis of mineral concentrations and analyzed as repeated measures. Heifers were slaughtered after 150 or 169 d on feed, and carcass characteristics were determined. Final BW, average daily gain, dry matter index, gain:feed, and carcass characteristics were not influenced (P > 0.19) by treatment. Control heifers visited feeders more but spent less time per visit and ate less per visit compared with MIN heifers (P < 0.03). No differences (P > 0.06) in liver mineral concentrations were observed between treatments, and concentrations of Se, Cu, Mo, Mn, and Co decreased (P < 0.05) over the feeding period. In this experiment, the slow-release vitamin and mineral bolus evaluated failed to increase liver mineral concentrations during the finishing period or influence heifer performance and carcass characteristics.
The Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Gene Crmapk Is Involved in Clonostachys chloroleuca Mycoparasitism
Authors: Sun Zhan-Bin , Wang Qi , Sun Man-Hong , Li Shi-Dong
Published: April 2020

Clonostachys chloroleuca is a mycoparasite used for biocontrol of numerous fungal plant pathogens. Sequencing of the transcriptome of C. chloroleuca following mycoparasitization of the sclerotia of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum revealed significant upregulation of a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-encoding gene, crmapk. Although MAPKs are known to regulate fungal growth and development, the function of crmapk in C. chloroleuca mycoparasitism is unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of crmapk in C. chloroleuca mycoparasitism through gene knockout and complementation. Deletion of crmapk had no influence on the C. chloroleuca morphological characteristics but could significantly reduce the mycoparasitic ability to sclerotia and biocontrol capacity to soybean Sclerotinia stem rot; crmapk complementation restored these abilities. Transcriptome analysis between Δcrmapk and the wild-type strain revealed numerous genes were significantly down-regulated after crmapk deletion, including cytochrome P450, transporters, and cell wall–degrading enzymes (CWDEs). Our findings indicate that crmapk influences C. chloroleuca mycoparasitism by regulation of genes controlling the activity of CWDEs or antibiotic production. This study provides a basis for further studies of the molecular mechanism of C. chloroleuca mycoparasitism.
Growing-rod Graduates With Idiopathic Early-onset Scoliosis Have Comparable Exercise Tolerance to Patients With Surgically Treated Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Celebioglu Ebru , Yataganbaba Alper , Bekmez Senol , Oncel Asli , Degirmenci Ceren , Tekin Fatih , Demirkiran Gokhan , Yalcin Ebru , Demir Ahmet U. , Yazici Muharrem
Published: April 2020

Background:

Growing-rod (GR) treatment is the current standard for progressive idiopathic early-onset scoliosis (I-EOS) in young children. Despite good radiographic outcomes, the impact of scoliosis treatment on pulmonary functions is not well-defined in this patient population. The aim of this study was to evaluate pulmonary functions and exercise tolerance in I-EOS patients graduated from GR treatment and to compare them with age-matched, surgically treated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients and healthy controls.

Methods:

Eight GR graduates with I-EOS with pulmonary function tests and complete radiographic results were compared with a group of 9 thoracic AIS patients at least 2 years out from posterior fusion. Both groups were also compared with a set of 10 healthy individuals. All subjects underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing and spirometry to evaluate pulmonary function.

Results:

Age, sex, height, arm span, weight, residual deformity, and level of instrumentation in GR and AIS patients were similar. In the GR group, forced vital capacity % and forced expiratory volume in 1 second % values were reduced compared with the healthy controls and AIS group (P<0.001, <0.001 and 0.036, 0.046, respectively). Breathing reserve index at lactate threshold (BRILT) was higher in GR and AIS patients (P=0.001 and 0.002, respectively), and was similar between GR and AIS patients (P=0.916). Heart rate at lactate threshold was higher in GR and AIS groups compared with controls (P<0.001 and 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions:

AIS and GR patients demonstrated reduced pulmonary reserve and exercise tolerance compared with their peers with no spinal deformity. However, exercise tolerance of I-EOS patients treated with the GR method was similar to that of operated AIS patients. These results suggest a positive impact of GR treatment in children with I-EOS.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—cross-sectional comparative study.
Cardiovascular Safety and Benefits of Noninsulin Antihyperglycemic Drugs for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—Part 1
Authors: Yandrapalli Srikanth , Jolly George , Horblitt Adam , Pemmasani Gayatri , Sanaani Abdallah , Aronow Wilbert S. , Frishman William H.
Published: April 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major contributor to the morbidity and mortality associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). With T2DM growing in pandemic proportions, there will be profound healthcare implications of CVD in person with diabetes. The ideal drugs to improve outcomes in T2DM are those having antiglycemic efficacy in addition to cardiovascular (CV) safety, which has to be determined in appropriately designed CV outcome trials as mandated by regulatory agencies. Available evidence is largely supportive of metformin’s CV safety and potential CVD risk reduction effects, whereas sulfonylureas are either CV risk neutral or are associated with variable CVD risk. Pioglitazone was also associated with improved CVD risk in patients with diabetes. The more recent antihyperglycemic medications have shown promise with regards to CVD risk reduction in T2DM patients at a high CV risk. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, a type of incretin-based therapy, were associated with better CV outcomes and mortality in T2DM patients, leading to the Food and Drug Administration approval of liraglutide to reduce CVD risk in high-risk T2DM patients. Ongoing and planned randomized controlled trials of the newer drugs should clarify the possibility of class effects, and of CVD risk reduction benefits in low-moderate CV risk patients. While metformin remains the first-line antiglycemic therapy in T2DM, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists should be appropriately prescribed in T2DM patients with baseline CVD or in those at a high CVD risk to improve CV outcomes. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors are discussed in the second part of this review.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum Masquerading as Necrotizing Infection after Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Park Tae Hwan , Fan Kenneth L. , Zolper Elizabeth G. , Song David H. , Del Corral Gabriel
Published: April 2020

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a diagnostic dilemma when it presents with a superimposed infection and previous surgery without subsequent inflammatory infection. In this setting, PG is not at the forefront of the surgeon’s mind. Furthermore, the treatment for PG, systemic steroids, may cause serious morbidity if the necrotizing infection is the actual culprit. We present an autologous breast reconstruction patient with previous uncomplicated surgery and no personal history of inflammatory disease. Important clinic clues to aid the surgeon in diagnosis include irregular violaceous undermined border, purulence limited to the skin, bilateral involvement, the involvement of the abdominal wound, sparing of the mastectomy site, and relative sparing of the nipples and umbilicus.
Hemi-tongue Allograft Transplantation in Dogs
Authors: Isomura Emiko Tanaka , Nakagawa Kiyoko , Mitsui Ryo , Shogen Yosuke , Fujita Takeshi , Kogo Mikihiko
Published: April 2020

Background:

When complete recovery of tongue function following tumor excision is desired, reestablishment of the complex movements of the tongue is necessary. However, currently available methods for recovery of tongue function, such as flap surgery or prosthesis insertion, are inadequate. In the current study, we investigated the effects of transplantations of tongue allografts.

Methods:

Hemi-tongue allotransplantation procedures were performed with 8 pairs of sex-blind and unrelated beagle dogs. In each donor, the right side of the tongue, including the lingual and hypoglossal nerves, extrinsic muscles of the tongue, mucous membrane of the oral floor, lingual artery, and vein were exposed. A vascularized transplantation method was used with manual anastomosis of the blood vessels and nerves.

Results:

Survival of the grafted tongue was only noted in 1 dog that died 5 days after transplantation. We suspected that the death was due to nutritional deficiency or dehydration, rather than hyperacute rejection of the transplant or technical failure of the microsurgical anastomosis. The grafted tongue was partially connected to the side of the recipient tongue, and lymphocyte infiltration was observed in this dog.

Conclusions:

Postoperative management is difficult in dogs. Even if tongue allograft including nerves and extrinsic muscles is performed, it seems to take a long time before the tongue recovers its functions. Furthermore, expansive tongue allograft was too invasive a treatment for animals. If we want to adapt this procedure to humans, the first trial in a human will be done without animal experiments, as was the case with face transplantations.
Prepubertal Vulvovaginitis
Authors: ROMANO MARY E.
Published: April 2020

Vulvovaginitis is a common gynecologic complaint in prepubertal girls. It typically presents with complaints of vulvovaginal itching, burning, irritation, discharge, or skin changes. Prepubertal females have anatomic, physiological, and behavioral factors that most often contribute to the development of symptoms. Careful attention to history and associated complaints will direct evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Most cases are nonspecific in origin and treatment includes counseling to patients and parents on hygiene and voiding techniques. Antibiotic treatment for specific pathogens may be indicated. Other less common causes include foreign bodies and lichen sclerosus.
Effects of Acupressure on Symptoms Relief and Improving Sleep Quality in Pediatric Patients With Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Lei Ruoh Lih , Lin Wan Chien , Lin Chin Chung , Lei Ruo Wan
Published: April 2020

Current pharmacological management of allergic rhinitis cannot completely provide relief from the symptoms and is usually accompanied by undesirable side effects. Complementary and alternative medicine approach has been evaluated and applied for allergic rhinitis frequently. We aim to investigate whether acupressure could be used as daily nursing care practice to reduce the severity of allergic rhinitis symptoms and improve sleep quality in pediatric patients with allergic rhinitis. Patients were divided into the acupressure and control groups randomly. Acupressure on 6 the acupoints was administered at home every night for 4 weeks in the acupressure group after attending a training program. Participants in the control group maintained their daily routine. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic and clinical characteristics, and to assess the symptom scores and sleep quality at baseline, week 2, and week 4 after intervention. Results of the generalized estimating equation model showed there were significant group effects on the total nasal symptom scores, sneezing, nasal congestion, itching of nose and palate, and watery eyes over the study period (all Ps < .05). From baseline to 2 weeks, all the aforementioned symptoms and red eyes, sleep quality, and allergic rhinitis classification more improved in the acupressure group than in the control group and the effect in the acupressure group was maintained through 4 weeks after intervention. Our results showed a significant reduction in the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improvement in sleep quality after acupressure treatment with no adverse effects. Acupressure could be used as daily nursing care practice for this chronic, lifetime disorder.
A Multidisciplinary Pathway for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Endocarditis
Authors: Gibbons Edward F , Huang Gary , Aldea Gabriel , Koomalsingh Kevin , Klein Jared W , Dhanireddy Shireesha , Harrington Robert
Published: April 2020

Clinical pathways can be useful when disparate clinical-pathologic groups converge on a common diagnostic and therapeutic trajectory. The progressive increase in the incidence of endocarditis in the US has included higher-risk subjects whose candidacy for aggressive cardiac surgical intervention may be highly resource-intensive, prohibitively high risk, or delayed and possibly deferred by comorbidities. We sought to define the sequence, application, and resolution of multidisciplinary endocarditis team decision-making in 4 distinct clinical groups.
Newly Onset Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy (ODP-M) in a Patient With Primary Angle-closure Glaucoma (PACG) After Surgical Iridectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Li Cheng , Guo Congcong , Yang Yangfan , Yu Minbin , Ge Jian , Fan Zhigang
Published: April 2020

Optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M) is a subtype of ODP, characterized by a serous retinal detachment and/or macular retinoschisis. Currently, ODP and ODP-M pathogenesis remain unknown although many hypotheses exist about their clinical features. In this study, we report a case of new ODP-M detected after surgical iridectomy in a patient with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) with a preoperative normal retina and optic nerve. Fine optic disc and the macular area structures were investigated using several imaging techniques. Findings revealed that the course of ODP and ODP-M provide us with some insights and understanding of their underlying pathogenesis.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Flat Times Versus Standard Care in Pediatric Patients Post Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: Raic Rebecca , Steurer Lisa M. , Balakas Karen , Ercole Patrick M.
Published: April 2020

Background

Pediatric patients undergoing cardiac catheterization procedures are required to lie flat for 4 hours for femoral venous access and 6 hours for femoral arterial access. Authors of research in adults suggest the flat time for the same access can be safely reduced to 1.5 to 2 hours post procedure. No literature was found that flat times could be safely reduced for pediatric patients.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine whether decreased flat time for the post–cardiac catheterization pediatric patient would impact the incidence of site bleeding, additional sedation, and the need for a critical care admission.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was designed and participants were randomly assigned to experimental or control group. The experimental group reduced flat times to 2 hours for venous and 4 hours for arterial. The control group was standard care of 4 hours for venous and 6 hours for arterial.

Results

A total of 119 participants were enrolled, 60 in the experimental group and 59 in the control group. Results suggest no difference in the incidence of site bleeding (P = .999), additional sedation (P = .653), or need for a critical care admission.

Conclusions

For pediatric patients undergoing arterial or venous cardiac catheterizations, flat times can safely be reduced without increasing site bleeding, additional sedation, or critical care admissions.
Otoprotective Effects of α-lipoic Acid on A/J Mice With Age-related Hearing Loss
Authors: Huang Shanshan , Xu Ang , Sun Xiumei , Shang Wenjing , Zhou Bingxin , Xie Yi , Zhao Mengmeng , Li Ping , Lu Peng , Liu Tingyan , Han Fengchan
Published: April 2020

Objective:

A/J mice are a mouse model of age-related hearing loss (AHL) with progressive degeneration of outer hair cells (OHCs), spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs), and stria vascularis. This study was carried out to observe the otoprotective effects of α-lipoic acid on A/J mice.

Methods:

A/J mouse pups at postnatal day 7 were randomly distributed into the untreated group, the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) group, and the α-lipoic acid + DMSO group. α-lipoic acid was given to the mice intraperitoneally at a dosage of 50 μg/g body weight every other day. Time course auditory-evoked brainstem response (ABR) thresholds were tested. OHC loss was counted and the densities of SGNs and the width of stria vascularis were measured at 4 and 8 weeks of age.

Results:

Measurement of the ABR thresholds revealed that hearing loss in A/J mice was attenuated by α-lipoic acid at age from 3 to 8 weeks. Moreover, preservation effects of OHCs, SGNs, and stria vascularis by α-lipoic acid were observed in the cochleae of A/J mice at 4 and 8 weeks of age.

Conclusion:

Hearing loss in A/J mice can be attenuated by α-lipoic acid. The otoprotective effects of α-lipoic acid on A/J mice may be obtained by preserving OHCs, SGNs, and stria vascularis in the cochleae. The oxidative damage related to gene mutations may be a potential target for AHL prevention and therapy.