bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diet-dependent gut microbiota impacts on adult neurogenesis through mitochondrial stress modulation
Authors: Ribeiro Maria F , Santos André A , Afonso Marta B , Rodrigues Pedro M , Sá Santos Sónia , Castro Rui E , Rodrigues Cecília M P , Solá Susana
Published: October 2020

The influence of dietary factors on brain health and mental function is becoming increasingly recognized. Similarly, mounting evidence supports a role for gut microbiota in modulating central nervous system function and behaviour. Still, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the impact of diet and associated microbiome in adult neurodegeneration are still largely unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether and how changes in diet-associated microbiome and its metabolites impact on adult neurogenesis. Mice were fed a high-fat, choline-deficient diet, developing obesity and several features of the metabolic syndrome, including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Strikingly, our results showed, for the first time, that animals fed with this specific diet display premature increased neurogenesis, possibly exhausting the available neural stem cell pool for long-term neurogenesis processes. The high-fat, choline-deficient diet further induced neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, synaptic loss and cell death in different regions of the brain. Notably, this diet-favoured gut dysbiosis in the small intestine and cecum, up-regulating metabolic pathways of short-chain fatty acids, such as propionate and butyrate and significantly increasing propionate levels in the liver. By dissecting the effect of these two specific short-chain fatty acids in vitro, we were able to show that propionate and butyrate enhance mitochondrial biogenesis and promote early neurogenic differentiation of neural stem cells through reactive oxygen species- and extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2-dependent mechanism. More importantly, neurogenic niches of high-fat, choline-deficient-fed mice showed increased expression of mitochondrial biogenesis markers, and decreased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species scavengers, corroborating the involvement of this mitochondrial stress-dependent pathway in mediating changes of adult neurogenesis by diet. Altogether, our results highlight a mitochondria-dependent pathway as a novel mediator of the gut microbiota–brain axis upon dietary influences.
The effect of differential force system and minimal surgical intervention on orthodontic tooth movement and root resorption
Authors: Nanda Anjali , Chen Po-Jung , Mehta Shivam , Kalajzic Zana , Dutra Eliane H , Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Nanda Ravindra , Yadav Sumit
Published: October 2020

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to quantify the orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) and orthodontically induced root resorption (OIRR) with differential force system in conjunction with minimal surgical insult.

Material and methods

15-week-old, 48 male Wistar rats were used in the research and were randomly divided into six groups: 1. Group 1 (8 Wistar rats): OTM for 14 days with 8-g force; 2. Group 2 (8 Wistar rats): OTM for 14 days with 25-g force; 3. Group 3 (8 Wistar rats): OTM for 14 days with 100-g force; 4. Group 4 (8 Wistar rats): OTM for 14 days with 8-g force and alveolar decortications (ADs); 5. Group 5 (8 Wistar rats): OTM for 14 days with 25-g force and ADs; 6. Group 6 (8 Wistar rats): OTM for 14 days with 100-g force and ADs. A nickel–titanium spring was used to protract the molar mesially using maxillary incisors as an anchorage. ADs (minimal surgical insult) were done using a hand piece and a round bur, adjacent to the left first maxillary molar on the palatal alveolar bone. After 14 days of OTM, Wistar rats were killed and microfocus computed tomography and histological analysis were performed.

Results

The 100-g group showed significant increase (P < 0.05) in OTM. However, with ADs, the OTM was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in 8 and 100 g. In addition, with ADs, there is significant increase (P < 0.05) in OIRR and significant decrease (P < 0.05) in bone volume fraction. Histological quantification of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase indicated a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the number of osteoclasts with ADs when compared without ADs.

Conclusions

Light force in conjunction with ADs are optimal to accelerate the OTM. Additionally, ADs increases the OIRR.
High-sugar feeding and increasing cholesterol levels in infants
Authors: Zubin Maslov Petra , Hill Joseph A , Lüscher Thomas F , Narula Jagat
Published: October 2020

Hypercholesterolaemia is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Both total and LDL cholesterol levels are three-fold higher at the end of the first year of life and about four-fold higher in adulthood compared with the neonatal period. In the USA, only 25% of infants are exclusively breastfed and simple carbohydrate-rich formulas are preferentially consumed. Spikes in fasting glucose and insulin have been reported in formula-fed infants and are associated with higher levels of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, suggesting a potential link between high simple sugar intake and consequent increase in LDL cholesterol in early childhood.
Genetic structuring in Atlantic haddock contrasts with current management regimes
Authors: Berg Paul R , Jorde Per E , Glover Kevin A , Dahle Geir , Taggart John B , Korsbrekke Knut , Dingsør Gjert E , Skjæraasen Jon E , Wright Peter J , Cadrin Steven X , Knutsen Halvor , Westgaard Jon-Ivar
Published: October 2020

The advent of novel genetic methods has made it possible to investigate population structure and connectivity in mobile marine fish species: knowledge of which is essential to ensure a sustainable fishery. Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) is a highly exploited marine teleost distributed along the coast and continental shelf on both sides of the North Atlantic Ocean. However, little is known about its population structure. Here, we present the first study using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers to assess the genetic population structure of haddock at multiple geographic scales, from the trans-Atlantic to the local (fjord) level. Genotyping 138 SNP loci in 1329 individuals from 19 locations across the North Atlantic revealed three main genetic clusters, consisting of a Northwest Atlantic cluster, a Northeast Arctic cluster, and a Northeast Atlantic cluster. We also observed a genetically distinct fjord population and a pattern of isolation by distance in the Northeast Atlantic. Our results contrast with the current management regime for this species in the Northeast Atlantic, as we found structure within some management areas. The study adds to the growing recognition of population structuring in marine organisms in general, and fishes in particular, and is of clear relevance for the management of haddock in the Northeast Atlantic.
The missing whales: relevance of “struck and lost” rates for the impact assessment of historical whaling in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Vighi Morgana , Borrell Asunción , Jackson Jennifer A , Carroll Emma L , Pennino Maria Grazia , Aguilar Alex
Published: October 2020

The massive impact that open-boat historical whaling (18th to 20th centuries) had on whale populations has been traditionally estimated from records of oil and baleen plate production. However, an unknown proportion of hunted whales were struck, wounded, eventually killed, but lost, and not included in these records, suggesting that whaling impact may be critically underestimated. Whaling logbooks provide a key source for assessing past catches and losses. Here, we extract detailed records of 19875 days of activity in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean from 255 logbooks of offshore whaling voyages. During the period considered (1776–1923), whalers first targeted southern right whales (Eubalaena australis, 2497 sightings and 658 catches), gradually substituted by sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus, 1157 sightings and 843 catches) after 1840. Loss rate factors, calculated to account for the number of “struck and lost” whales, decreased across time for both species, and were particularly high (ranging 1.09–1.6) for the southern right whale, whose population was drastically reduced by whaling, as compared to previous estimates based on rough catch records. Accurate accounting for these “lost” individuals is essential for reconstructing the impact of whaling on cetacean populations and for a proper assessment of their initial population size and demographic trends.
Trauma system accreditation and patient outcomes in British Columbia: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Batomen Brice , Moore Lynne , Strumpf Erin , Yanchar Natalie L , Thakore Jaimini , Nandi Arijit
Published: October 2020

Objective

We aim to assess the impact of several accreditation cycles of trauma centers on patient outcomes, specifically in-hospital mortality, complications and hospital length of stay.

Design

Interrupted time series.

Setting

British Columbia, Canada.

Participants

Trauma patients admitted to all level I and level II trauma centers between January 2008 and March 2018.

Exposure

Accreditation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

We first computed quarterly estimates of the proportions of in-hospital mortality, complications and survival to discharge standardized for change in patient case-mix using prognostic scores and the Aalen–Johansen estimator of the cumulative incidence function. Piecewise regressions were then used to estimate the change in levels and trends for patient outcomes following accreditation.

Results

For in-hospital mortality and major complications, the impact of accreditation seems to be associated with short- and long-term reductions after the first cycle and only short-term reductions for subsequent cycles. However, the 95% confidence intervals for these estimates were wide, and we lacked the precision to consistently conclude that accreditation is beneficial.

Conclusions

Applying a quasi-experimental design to time series accounting for changes in patient case-mix, our results suggest that accreditation might reduce in-hospital mortality and major complications. However, there was uncertainty around the estimates of accreditation. Further studies looking at clinical processes of care and other outcomes such as patient or health staff satisfaction are needed.
Phylogeny, Evolution, and Biogeography of the North American Trapdoor Spider Family Euctenizidae (Araneae: Mygalomorphae) and the Discovery of a New ‘Endangered Living Fossil’ Along California’s Central Coast
Authors: Bond Jason E , Hamilton Chris A , Godwin Rebecca L , Ledford Joel M , Starrett James
Published: October 2020

We report here the discovery of a remarkable new monotypic mygalomorph spider genus, known only from one geographical location along the central coast of California. The single relict species comprising Cryptocteniza kawtakn. gen. n. sp., is morphologically distinct and geographically isolated from other related genera, with its closest phylogenetic relatives found much further to the east in New Mexico and Arizona. Using a phylogenomic approach employing anchored hybrid enrichment, we reconstruct the evolutionary history of the family Euctenizidae Raven, 1985 to explore relationships among genera, affirmatively place previously undescribed taxa, explore rates of diversification, and reconstruct the group’s biogeography. A biogeographic analysis shows that extinction likely played a significant role in shaping the observed disjunct modern-day distribution of Cryptocteniza and its sister taxa. Our extinction hypothesis is further bolstered by a diversification rate analysis identifying considerably higher rates of speciation in other euctenizid lineages like AptostichusSimon, 1891. Consequently, changes in environmental conditions (or other related biotic and/or abiotic factors) may have spurred an adaptive radiation in related genera now widely distributed across the California Floristic Province biodiversity hotspot, with concomitant extinction in Cryptocteniza following the Miocene and establishment of a Mediterranean climate. Owing to its phylogenetic distinctiveness, incredibly narrow distribution and age, we show that Cryptocteniza meets all the criteria of an ‘Endangered Living Fossil’ and is consequently of grave conservation concern.
Examining the Gender Productivity Gap among Farm Households in Mali
Authors: Singbo A , Njuguna-Mungai E , Yila J O , Sissoko K , Tabo R
Published: October 2020

This paper decomposes the gender agricultural productivity gap and measures the factors that influence the gap between male and female agricultural plot managers in Mali. The Oaxaca–Blinder approach and the recentred influence function (RIF) decomposition methodology are applied to a nationally representative survey of Mali. The results show that the agricultural productivity of female plot managers is 20.18% lower than that of male plot managers. Additionally, while more than half (56%) of the agricultural productivity gap is influenced by female-specific structural disadvantages, 44% of the gap is due to an endowment effect. Socio-economic characteristics such as the educational level and age of the plot manager, environmental factors and agricultural production practices, i.e., the differential use of inputs (organic or inorganic fertiliser and improved seeds) and the use of hired female workers seem to affect the female-specific structural disadvantages. To reduce or close the gender productivity gap, the underlying causes of female-specific structural disadvantages must be addressed to enable female farmers to obtain the same returns as men. Traditional means of addressing the gender gap, such as providing education for women in rural areas and facilitating rural women’ access to extension services and improved seeds, can mitigate the endowment deficit. This paper highlights the need to develop a better understanding of the factors influencing the structural disadvantages faced by female farmers in Mali that could feed into the development of more effective policies to address the gender gap in agricultural productivity, improving productivity and gender equity and reducing poverty.
Chiral Serum Pharmacokinetics of 4-Fluoroamphetamine after Controlled Oral Administration: Can (R)/(S)-Concentration Ratios Help in Interpreting Forensic Cases?
Authors: Losacker Moritz , Toennes Stefan W , de Sousa Fernandes Perna Elizabeth B , Ramaekers Johannes G , Roehrich Joerg , Hess Cornelius
Published: October 2020

Over the last two decades, misuse of 4-fluoroamphetamine (4-FA) became an emerging issue in many European countries. Stimulating effects last for 4–6 hours and can impact psychomotor performance. The metabolism of amphetamine-type stimulants is stereoselective and quantification of (R)- and (S)-enantiomers has been suggested for assessing time of use. To date, no data on enantioselective pharmacokinetics is available for 4-FA in serum samples. An enantioselective liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS) method was developed using a chiral Phenomenex® Lux 3 μm AMP column. Validation of the method showed satisfactory selectivity, sensitivity, linearity (0.5–250 ng/mL), precision and accuracy. Recreational stimulant users orally ingested two doses (100 mg, n = 12; 150 mg, n = 5) of 4-FA. Blood samples were drawn prior to application and over a period of 12 hours after ingestion and analyzed for 4-FA enantiomers. Peak concentrations and corresponding times did not differ significantly between the enantiomers (mean (R)/(S)-ratio at tmax 1.05, 0.85–1.16). With mean 12.9 (8.3–16.1) hours, apparent elimination half-lives (t1/2) were significantly (P < 0.01) longer for (R)-4-FA than for (S)-4-FA (6.0 hours; range 4.4–10.2 hours) and independent of the dose given. Over time, (R)/(S)-concentration-ratios were linearly increasing in all subjects to maximum ratios of 2.00 (1.08–2.77) in the last samples (after 12 hours). The slopes of the (R)/(S)-ratio exhibited marked interindividual differences (0.023–0.157 h−1, mean 0.095 h−1). Ratios higher than 1.60 only appeared earliest after a minimum of 6 hours and therefore suggest the absence of acute drug effects. Different elimination half-lives of enantiomers lead to constantly increasing (R)/(S)-concentration-ratios. Consequently, ratios of 4-FA enantiomers in serum are a promising indicator for assessment of the time of drug consumption.
Burn Center Referral Practice Evaluation and Treatment Outcomes Comparison Among Verified, Nonverified Burn Centers, and Nonburn Centers: A Statewide Perspective
Authors: Huang Zhenna , Forst Linda , Friedman Lee S
Published: October 2020

The American Burn Association (ABA) has developed comprehensive referral criteria to determine which burn-injured patient should be transferred to burn centers. This was a retrospective analysis of burn injuries using Illinois inpatient and outpatient hospital data from 2010 to 2015. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were developed to evaluate ABA burn center referral criteria adherence and to compare treatment outcomes among those treated in verified burn center (VB), nonverified burn center (NVB), and other facilities (OF). In this study, 66% of those treated in facilities without specialized burn teams met the ABA referral criteria. Patients who were older than the age of 40 years, lived farther from burn units, and were originally treated in level I trauma center without burn units were less likely to be transferred to burn centers. Those transported and treated in burn centers had overall better treatment outcomes including fewer infection complications (VB vs OF: adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.4–0.6; NVB vs OF: aOR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.4–0.6), fewer patients requiring additional care in skilled nursing/rehabilitation facilities (VB vs OF: aOR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.4–0.6; NVB vs OF: aOR: 0.7, 95% CI: 0.6–0.9), shorter length of hospitalization (VB vs OF: β: −0.4, P < .001; NVB vs OF: β: −0.8, P < .001), and comparable in-hospital mortality (VB vs OF: aOR: 1.3, 95% CI: 0.97–1.7; NVB vs OF: aOR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.7–1.5). While verified and unverified burn centers demonstrated better treatment outcomes, the data demonstrated a need to understand the barriers of adhering to ABA criteria and an improved regional burn center referral guidelines education.
Review of the biology of the krill genusNyctiphanesG.O. Sars, 1883 (Euphausiacea: Euphausiidae): challenges for future research on environmental change
Authors: Lagos Paulo F , Gómez-Gutiérrez Jaime , Sabadel Amandine J M , Burrit David J , Lamare Miles D
Published: October 2020

The genus Nyctiphanes G.O. Sars, 1883 (Euphausiacea, Euphausiidae) includes four extant species. These species are a conspicuous component of trophic webs of coastal marine ecosystems due to their abundance, the formation of dense aggregations, swarms, and schools, fast growth, and high reproductive rates. They dominate the bulk biomass in eutrophic Eastern Boundaries System and subtropical mesotrophic habitats, with estimates of 30–40% of the total zooplankton biomass. Species of Nyctiphanes are efficient omnivores and conversely prey for a large number of zooplanktonic and nektonic species. We review current knowledge of the biogeography, reproductive biology, physiology, biochemistry, ecology, and parasitology of the four species of Nyctiphanes. Most published information on Nyctiphanes focuses on the two species from the Pacific Ocean, N. australis G.O. Sars, 1883 and N. simplex  Hansen, 1911, and considerably less is known on the biology and ecology of N. couchii (Bell, 1853) and N. capensis  Hansen, 1911 from the Atlantic Ocean. Knowledge on the biology and ecology of the species of Nyctiphanes is still behind what is currently known for species of krill, particularly compared to Euphausia  Dana, 1850 and Thysanoessa  Brandt, 1851, and new multi-focal studies on the effects that environmental variables have on reproductive aspects, survival, growth, and physiology are especially critical to address under future environmental change.
Transcriptome analysis reveals rice MADS13 as an important repressor of the carpel development pathway in ovules
Authors: Osnato Michela , Lacchini Elia , Pilatone Alessandro , Dreni Ludovico , Grioni Andrea , Chiara Matteo , Horner David , Pelaz Soraya , Kater Martin M
Published: October 2020

In angiosperms, floral homeotic genes encoding MADS-domain transcription factors regulate the development of floral organs. Specifically, members of the SEPALLATA (SEP) and AGAMOUS (AG) subfamilies form higher-order protein complexes to control floral meristem determinacy and to specify the identity of female reproductive organs. In rice, the AG subfamily gene OsMADS13 is intimately involved in the determination of ovule identity, since knock-out mutant plants develop carpel-like structures in place of ovules, resulting in female sterility. Little is known about the regulatory pathways at the base of rice gynoecium development. To investigate molecular mechanisms acting downstream of OsMADS13, we obtained transcriptomes of immature inflorescences from wild-type and Osmads13 mutant plants. Among a total of 476 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), a substantial overlap with DEGs from the SEP-family Osmads1 mutant was found, suggesting that OsMADS1 and OsMADS13 may act on a common set of target genes. Expression studies and preliminary analyses of two up-regulated genes encoding Zinc-finger transcription factors indicated that our dataset represents a valuable resource for the identification of both OsMADS13 target genes and novel players in rice ovule development. Taken together, our study suggests that OsMADS13 is an important repressor of the carpel pathway during ovule development.
The nature of the Schönberg–Chandrasekhar limit
Authors: Ziółkowski Janusz , Zdziarski Andrzej A
Published: October 2020

We present a comprehensive description of the Schönberg–Chandrasekhar (S–C) transition, which is an acceleration of the stellar evolution from the nuclear to the thermal time scales occurring when the fractional mass of the helium core reaches a critical value, i.e. about 0.1. It occurs in the 1.4–7 $\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$ mass range due to impossibility of maintaining the thermal equilibrium after the nuclear energy sources in the core disappear. We present the distributions of the hydrogen abundance, the energy generation rate and the temperature for stars crossing that limit. We confirm that a sharp S–C limit is present for strictly isothermal cores, but it is much smoother for real stars. The way the boundary of the core is defined is important for the picture of this transition. With a strict definition of the core as the region where the helium abundance is close to null, it occurs in an extended range of the fractional core mass of roughly 0.03–0.11. The cause of that is a gradual core contraction causing a correspondingly gradual loss of the core isothermality with the increasing core mass. On the other hand, when using definitions allowing for some H abundance in the core, the S–C transition is found to be sharper, at the fractional core mass of between about 0.07 and 0.11. Still, it is more a smooth transition than a sharp limit. We have also searched for specific signatures of that transition, and found that it is associated with the stellar radius first decreasing and then increasing again. We have considered whether the S–C limit can be used as a diagnostic constraining the evolutionary status of accreting X-ray binaries, but found such uses unfounded.
2D numerical study for magnetic field dependence of neutrino-driven core-collapse supernova models
Authors: Matsumoto J , Takiwaki T , Kotake K , Asahina Y , Takahashi H R
Published: October 2020

We study the effects of the magnetic field on the dynamics of non-rotating stellar cores by performing 2D, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations. To this end, we have updated our neutrino-radiation-hydrodynamics supernova code to include MHD employing a divergence cleaning method with both careful treatments of finite volume and area reconstructions. By changing the initial strength of the magnetic field, the evolution of 15.0, 18.4, and $27.0\,\rm M_\odot$ pre-supernova progenitors is investigated. An intriguing finding in our study is that the neutrino-driven explosion occurs regardless of the strength of the initial magnetic field. For the 2D models presented in this work, the neutrino heating is the main driver for the explosion, whereas the magnetic field secondary contributes to the pre-explosion dynamics. Our results show that the strong magnetic field weakens the growth of the neutrino-driven turbulence in the small scale compared to the weak magnetic field. This results in the slower increase of the turbulent kinetic energy in the post-shock region, leading to the slightly delayed onset of the shock revival for models with the stronger initial magnetic field.
Masticatory Dysfunction After Computed Tomography–Guided Plasma Ablation vs. Radiofrequency Ablation on Gasserian Ganglion for Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zheng Shuyue , Li Xiuhua , Yang Liqiang , He Liangliang , Cao Guoqing , Yang Zhanmin , Ni Jiaxiang
Published: October 2020

Objective

We aimed to evaluate masticatory dysfunction after two different types of ablation on the Gasserian ganglion for the treatment of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia. We hypothesized that low-temperature plasma radiofrequency ablation (LTP-RFA) was noninferior to radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFT) with respect to initial efficacy.

Methods

In the randomized, single-blind, parallel-group, noninferiority trial, 204 participants with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia were randomly allocated to receive plasma ablation in the LTP-RFA group and radiofrequency ablation in the RFT group in a 1:1 ratio, with random block sizes of four or six. Participants were examined at baseline (T0), on the day of discharge (T1), and at the 6-month follow-up (T2). The primary end point was the clinincal effective rate in the LTP-RFA group compared with that in the RFT group after intervention on the day of discharge. Noninferiority was prespecified at -10%.

Results

The intention-to-treat analysis revealed that the initial efficacy rates were 91.2% in LTP-RFA group and 93.1% in RFT group (rate ratio [RR] = 0.979, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.904–1.061, P = 0.795). The difference between the two groups was 1.9% (95% CI: -5.6% to 9.4%), which showed that LTP-RFA demonstrated noninferiority compared with RFT in initial efficacy. Compared with the RFT group, the LTP-RFA group exhibited a significantly greater improvement in the maximum voltage of the masseter muscles with mean differences of 11.40 (95% CI: 10.52 to 12.27, P < 0.001) at T1 and 17.41 (95% CI: 14.68 to 20.13, P < 0.001) at T2, respectively. Similar results were observed for the asymmetry index of occlusion, the maximum voltage of the anterior temporalis, and the activity index of anterior temporalis / masseter muscles. No serious adverse events were observed in either group.

Conclusions

Compared with the RFT group, noninferior efficacy for pain relief and improvement of masticatory function was revealed in the LTP-RFA group.
Yield, chemical composition, fermentation characteristics, in vitro ruminal variables, and degradability of ensiled amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) cultivars compared with corn (Zea mays) silage
Authors: Shadi Hossein , Rouzbehan Yousef , Rezaei Javad , Fazaeli Hassan
Published: October 2020

Silages from four amaranth varieties (A5, A12, A14, and A28) were compared with corn silage (CS) in terms of their yield, chemical composition, phenolic compounds, oxalic acid and nitrate levels, silage fermentation characteristics, in vitro methane production, organic matter disappearance (OMD), microbial crude protein (MCP), ruminal ammonia (NH3-N), pH, volatile fatty acids, cellulolytic bacteria numbers, protozoa counts, and in situ dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) degradability were determined. Forages were harvested 93 d after planting, chopped, and ensiled in plastic buckets for 60 d. The study was based on a randomized complete block design, and data were analyzed using SAS, general linear model (GLM) procedure for normal distribution. Compared with CS, amaranth silages (AMS) had lower ash-free neutral detergent fiber nitrate, OMD (P < 0.001), phosphorus (P = 0.003), and metabolizable energy (ME) (P = 0.043) but higher (P < 0.001) CP, calcium, non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), acid detergent lignin, ether extract, ash, total phenolics, pH, NH3-N concentration, MCP, digestible undegradable protein (DUP), and metabolizable protein (MP). Fresh, OM, OMD, ME (P < 0.001), and DM (P = 0.032) yields of AMS from different varieties were higher than CS, with the exception of A5. Overall, amaranth made good quality silage, with some variation, and A28 had the highest yield and nutritional value (CP, NFC, MCP, DUP, and MP). The yield, CP concentration, and nutritional value of A28 silage were higher than CS. Although these in vitro results are promising, they also need to be validated with future in vivo research.
Predictors of Loss to Follow-up in Hip Fracture Trials: A Secondary Analysis of the FAITH and HEALTH Trials
Authors: Sivaratnam Surabhi , Comeau-Gauthier Marianne , Sprague Sheila , Schemitsch Emil H. , Poolman Rudolf W. , Frihagen Frede , Bhandari Mohit , Swiontkowski Marc , Bzovsky Sofia ,   on behalf of the FAITH and HEALTH Investigators
Published: October 2020

Background:

Hip fracture trials often suffer substantial loss to follow-up due to difficulties locating and communicating with participants or when participants, or their family members, withdraw their consent. We aimed to determine which factors were associated with being unable to contact FAITH and HEALTH participants for their 24-month follow-up and to also determine which factors were associated with their withdrawal of consent.

Methods:

We conducted 2 multivariable logistic regression analyses to determine which factors were predictive of being unable to contact participants at 24 months postfracture and withdrawal of consent within 24 months of their fracture. Results were reported as odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals, and associated P-values. All tests were 2-tailed with alpha = 0.05.

Results:

We were unable to contact 123 of 2520 participants (4.9%) for their 24-month follow-up visits and 124 (4.9%) withdrew their consent from the trial. Being non-White (P = 0.003), enrolled from a non-European hospital (P < 0.001), and treated with arthroplasty (P < 0.001) were associated with an increased odds of not completing the 24-month follow-up visit. Being enrolled from a hospital in the United States (P = 0.02), from a hospital in Oceania, India, or South Africa (P < 0.001) as compared to a European hospital, and treated with arthroplasty (P < 0.001) were associated with an increased odds of consent withdrawal.

Discussion:

Certain factors may be predictive of loss to follow-up in hip fracture trials. We suggest that the identification of such factors may be used to inform and improve retention strategies in future orthopaedic hip fracture trials.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Monocyte chemotactic protein-inducing protein 1 negatively regulating asthmatic airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion involving γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Dai Guang-Ming , Wang Jia-Jia , Chen Zhi-Hong , Ran Ya-Juan , Deng Huo-Jin , Mao Ruo-Lin , Zhu Tao
Published: October 2020

Background

Mounting evidence, consistent with our previous study, showed that γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABAAR) played an indispensable role in airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in asthma. Monocyte chemotactic protein-inducing protein 1 (MCPIP1) was a key negative regulator of inflammation. Recent studies showed that inflammation was largely suppressed by enhanced MCPIP1 expression in many inflammatory diseases. However, the role and potential mechanism of MCPIP1 in airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in asthma were still not well studied. This study was to explore the role of MCPIP1 in asthmatic airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in both mice and BEAS-2B cells, and its potential mechanism.

Methods

In vivo, mice were sensitized and challenged by ovalbumin (OVA) to induce asthma. Airway inflammation and mucus secretion were analyzed. In vitro, BEAS-2B cells were chosen. Interleukin (IL)-13 was used to stimulate inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in cells. MCPIP1 Lentiviral vector (LA-MCPIP1) and plasmid-MCPIP1 were used to up-regulate MCPIP1 in lung and cells, respectively. MCP-1, thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), mucin 5AC (MUC5AC), MCPIP1, and GABAARβ2 expressions were measured in both lung and BEAS-2B cells. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to observe the expression of GABAARβ2 in cells.

Results

MCPIP1 was up-regulated by LA-MCPIP1 (P < 0.001) and plasmid-MCPIP1 (P < 0.001) in lung and cells, respectively. OVA-induced airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion, OVA-enhanced MCP-1, TSLP, MUC5AC, and GABAARβ2 expressions, and OVA-reduced MCPIP1 were significantly blunted by LA-MCPIP1 in mice (all P < 0.001). IL-13-enhanced MCP-1, TSLP, MUC5AC, and GABAARβ2 expressions, and IL-13-reduced MCPIP1 were markedly abrogated by plasmid-MCPIP1 in BEAS-2B cells (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this study suggested that OVA and IL-13-induced airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion were negatively regulated by MCPIP1 in both lung and BEAS-2B cells, involving GABAAR signaling pathway.
Association between renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system blockers and outcome in coronavirus disease 2019: analysing in-hospital exposure generates a biased seemingly protective effect of treatment
Authors: Lahens Alexandre , Mullaert Jimmy , Gressens Simon , Gault Nathalie , Flamant Martin , Deconinck Laurène , Joly Véronique , Yazdanpanah Yazdan , Lescure François-Xavier , Vidal-Petiot Emmanuelle
Published: October 2020

Objective:

The role of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) blockers during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a matter of controversies. Studies based on in-hospital exposure have suggested a beneficial effect of these drugs, unlike those based on chronic exposure. We aimed to analyse RAAS blocker prescription before and during hospital stay in patients with COVID-19, and the corresponding outcomes, to explain these discrepant results.

Methods:

In a retrospective cohort study conducted in 347 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 (Bichat Hospital, Paris, France, 23 January–29 April 2020), RAAS blocker exposure, as well as timing and reason for treatment modifications, were collected. The association between exposure and mortality within 30 days of hospital admission was analysed using logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, and comorbidities.

Results:

Median age was 61 [interquartile range, 51–72] years, 209 (60%) were male, 169 (49%) had a history of treated hypertension, and 117 (34%) received a RAAS blocker prior to hospitalization. RAAS blockers were discontinued within the first 7 days of hospital admission in 33% of previously treated patients (mostly driven by severity of the disease), with a corresponding mortality rate of 33%. Mortality was 8% when treatment was maintained or introduced, and 12% in patients never exposed. Adjusted odds ratios for association between exposure and mortality were 0.62 (95% confidence interval 0.25–1.48) based on chronic exposure and 0.25 (0.09–0.65) based on in-hospital exposure.

Conclusion:

A ‘healthy user-sick stopper’ bias influences RAAS blocker prescription after hospital admission for COVID-19, and explains the seemingly favourable outcome associated with in-hospital treatment.
Long-Term Results of P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM
Authors: Hirst Lawrence
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

To identify the recurrence rate, complication rate, cosmetic results, and patient satisfaction after P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM more than 10 years after surgery.

Methods:

This is a prospective cohort study with 312 patients (351 surgeries). All patients underwent pterygium removal using P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM in 1 eye or both eyes by the author. The main parameters studied were recurrence rate, complication rate, esthetic outcomes, and patient satisfaction.

Results:

Two hundred twenty-nine patients (77% of surviving cohort group) were able to be followed up with 16 patients deceased. The basic biographical data of the group followed up and those lost to follow-up were not different. The follow-up period was 153 ± 20 months. Twenty-five percent of the surgeries were for recurrent pterygia. The recurrence rate was zero, and there were no serious complications. Ninety-four percent of patients were graded as having normal or excellent cosmetic appearance by the surgeon, and 95% of the patients graded the appearance of their eye as greater than 8 of 10. Ninety-four percent of the patients gave more than 8 of 10 as their satisfaction with the service and surgery.

Conclusions:

P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM provides long-term and stable results for primary and recurrent pterygium patients with a zero recurrence rate and excellent cosmetic appearance of the eye and no serious complications. P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM should be considered as the standard by which other pterygium surgeries should be compared. Cosmetic outcomes after pterygium surgeries are now a more sensitive measure of success than recurrence rate alone.
Severe Neonatal Coronavirus Disease 2019 Presenting as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Trieu Connie , Poole Claudette , Cron Randy Q. , Hallman Madhura , Rutledge Chrystal , Bliton Kyle , Phillips Adeline , Lawrence Maggie , Boppana Suresh B. , Pinninti Swetha
Published: October 2020

Since initial identification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in 2019, the virus has proved to be highly transmissible, resulting in a global pandemic with emerging reports of infected neonates. This report highlights a severe case of neonatal coronavirus disease 2019 with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Infant Pyogenic Liver Abscess Complicated With Autoimmune Neutropenia: Two Cases
Authors: Otake Shogo , Tamashiro Rin , Morisada Naoya , Kasai Masashi
Published: October 2020

Approximately 90% of patients with autoimmune neutropenia (AIN) suffer from mild infections although neutrophil count often decreases to <500/μL. Here, we report 2 cases of infant pyogenic liver abscess complicated with AIN. We should consider the possibility of AIN as an underlying disease when diagnosing pyogenic liver abscess during childhood.
Antipsychotic Medication in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kumar Sanjana , Sudhakar Shwetha , Sajatovic Martha , Levin Jennifer B.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

There is limited evidence on the use of antipsychotic medications to treat people with schizophrenia in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This systematic literature review identified original research on use of antipsychotic drugs for primary psychotic disorders in SSA, assessed the methodological quality of studies, summarized intervention strategies, and examined patient-level outcomes.

Methods

PubMed, PsychInfo, Cochrane Collaboration, African Journals Online, and CINAHL databases were searched for studies in SSA that focused on antipsychotic treatment for primary psychotic disorders and that investigated at least one patient-level outcome. Articles in English and published before April 2019 were included. Epidemiological studies, drug discontinuation studies, studies with drugs other than antipsychotics, and multicenter studies that did not specify SSA results were excluded. An adapted standardized instrument assessed methodological quality.

Results

Twenty-six articles were reviewed. Three levels of evidence were found: single-group reports, quasi-experimental studies, and randomized controlled trials. Study outcomes included change in psychiatric symptoms, adverse effects, remission rates, or change in functional status. Nine studies reported improvements in psychiatric symptoms with antipsychotic medication. Seven studies investigating adverse effects of antipsychotics found that they were associated with an increase in metabolic syndrome. Two studies reported that remission was achieved in most subjects, and one study reported improvements in functional status.

Conclusions

Despite adverse effects, treatment with antipsychotic medications may be beneficial for individuals with primary psychotic disorders in SSA. Apart from South Africa, there is a scarcity of research on antipsychotics from countries in SSA, and there are numerous important gaps in the literature.
The integration of artificial intelligence models to augment imaging modalities in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Wang Xianze , Chung Wen Yuan , Correa Elon , Zhu Yi , Issa Eyad , Dennison Ashley R.
Published: October 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy with a limited number of effective treatments. Using emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate the earlier diagnosis and decision-making process represents one of the most promising areas for investigation. The integration of AI models to augment imaging modalities in PDAC has made great progression in the past 5 years, especially in organ segmentation, AI-aided diagnosis, and radiomics based individualized medicine. In this article, we review the developments of AI in the field of PDAC and the present clinical position. We also examine the barriers to future development and more widespread application which will require increased familiarity of the underlying technology among clinicians to promote the necessary enthusiasm and collaboration with computer professionals.
Treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Syverson Erin Phillips , Hait Elizabeth J.
Published: October 2020

Purpose of review

To summarize current dietary and pharmacologic approaches in the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).

Recent findings

Studies comparing dietary approaches in EoE treatment support empiric elimination diets as the preferred approach to dietary EoE treatment, with no data to support use of currently available allergy tests to guide specific food elimination diets. Swallowed topical corticosteroid therapy is the current standard of care in pharmacologic EoE treatment, with similar effectiveness of fluticasone and budesonide, but their discontinuation results in return of both EoE symptoms and disease. A number of nonsteroid-based therapies are currently under investigation for the treatment of EoE, which are focused on targeting disease at a cellular level.

EoE can be treated with diet or medications. Empiric elimination is presently the preferred dietary approach. Swallowed steroids is the standard of care to treat EoE with medication; however, there are several promising drugs currently undergoing clinical trials.
Molecularly Classified Uterine FIGO Grade 3 Endometrioid Carcinomas Show Distinctive Clinical Outcomes But Overlapping Morphologic Features
Authors: Joehlin-Price Amy , Van Ziffle Jessica , Hills Nancy K. , Ladwig Nicholas , Rabban Joseph T. , Garg Karuna
Published: October 2020

FIGO grade 3 endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC) is a heterogenous group of tumors with variable molecular and clinicopathologic characteristics but is treated clinically as a single entity. There is a need for additional objective markers to help guide management. The aim of this study was to evaluate a cohort of FIGO grade 3 EEC to validate the prognostic impact of molecular classification using POLE mutation (POLE-mut) analysis and immunohistochemistry for p53 and mismatch repair proteins. A secondary aim was to assess for any morphologic or immunophenotypic correlates among the molecular groups. Ninety-five cases of FIGO grade 3 EEC who underwent a hysterectomy at our institution were identified. Ten tumors (11%) harbored POLE-mut, 35 tumors (37%) showed mismatch repair deficiency, 18 tumors (19%) showed aberrant p53 staining (p53-ab), and 26 cases (27%) lacked all of these findings and were classified as no specific molecular profile. Six separate cases harbored >1 abnormality (multiple classifier), 5 of which had POLE-mut. The POLE-mut group and multiple classifier group showed excellent clinical outcomes, the p53-ab group showed the worst clinical outcomes and the 2 remaining groups showed intermediate prognosis. While the POLE-mut tumors showed a statistically significant enrichment for morphologic features including serous-like atypia and lymphocytic infiltrates, these findings were seen across all 4 molecular groups. There was no correlation between molecular grouping and tumor immunophenotypic findings, but overall 18% and 24% of tumors were completely negative for PAX-8 and estrogen receptor, respectively. Five CTNNB1 mutations were identified, 3 of which occurred in the context of a POLE-mut (including 1 multiple classifier case with MLH1/PMS2 loss). Thus our study corroborates the prognostic impact of molecular classification of high-grade endometrioid carcinoma of the uterus, achieved by readily available immunohistochemical stains in addition to POLE-mut analysis.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex
Authors: Daun Mitchell , Rudd Adam , Cheng Karen , Rezai Farzad
Published: October 2020

The imaging evaluation and interpretation of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is both challenging and rewarding for the radiologist and surgeon alike. The TFCC comprises a complicated group of fibrocartilaginous and ligamentous structures at the ulnar aspect of the wrist that plays an important role in wrist biomechanics. It is the main stabilizer of the distal radioulnar and ulnocarpal joints and functions to distribute compressive forces at the ulnocarpal joint during axial loading. Derangement of the TFCC is the most common source of ulnar-sided wrist pain. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of these lesions. The TFCC can anatomically be divided into proximal and distal parts to emphasize the role that the proximal TFCC has in stabilizing the distal radioulnar joint. Tears can be divided into traumatic and degenerative categories using the Palmer classification. Further subclassification based on the location for traumatic tears and the degree of derangement in degenerative tears guides clinical management. The vascular anatomy is important in determining management options for various lesions. A detailed understanding of the normal anatomy of the TFCC, imaging limitations and pitfalls, the Palmer classification system, and current treatment options is critical to the accurate and clinically useful interpretation of radiologic examinations of the TFCC.
Multimodality Pitfalls of Wrist Imaging With a Focus on Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Hansford Barry G.
Published: October 2020

Numerous pitfalls are frequently encountered at multimodality imaging of the wrist, which may mimic various tendinous, osseous, capsuloligamentous, muscular, and neurovascular pathologic conditions. These pitfalls may be secondary to variant anatomy, artifactual due to magnetic resonance imaging or sonographic technique, or represent varying ranges of structure-specific normal including a spectrum of findings associated with aging in asymptomatic subjects. When an imaging finding of questionable significance is encountered, it is critical that the interpreting radiologist make every attempt to review any relevant clinical information in an effort to determine whether the imaging findings in question may account for the patient's presenting symptomology. In order to accurately diagnose true pathology at wrist imaging, it is imperative that the radiologist be familiar with the pitfalls discussed throughout this manuscript that may mimic disease. This familiarity will allow the radiologist to provide a more useful report for referring providers focusing on true pathology while eliminating potentially confusing or misleading findings which are inconsistent with the patient's clinical presentation.