bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Tidal Disruption Event AT 2018hyz II: Light-curve modelling of a partially disrupted star
Authors: Gomez Sebastian , Nicholl Matt , Short Philip , Margutti Raffaella , Alexander Kate D , Blanchard Peter K , Berger Edo , Eftekhari Tarraneh , Schulze Steve , Anderson Joseph , Arcavi Iair , Chornock Ryan , Cowperthwaite Philip S , Galbany Lluís , Herzog Laura J , Hiramatsu Daichi , Hosseinzadeh Griffin , Laskar Tanmoy , Müller Bravo Tomás E , Patton Locke , Terreran Giacomo
Published: July 2020

AT 2018hyz (= ASASSN-18zj) is a tidal disruption event (TDE) located in the nucleus of a quiescent E+A galaxy at a redshift of z = 0.04573, first detected by the All-Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae (ASAS-SN). We present optical+UV photometry of the transient, as well as an X-ray spectrum and radio upper limits. The bolometric light curve of AT 2018hyz is comparable to other known TDEs and declines at a rate consistent with a t−5/3 at early times, emitting a total radiated energy of E = 9 × 1050 erg. An excess bump appears in the UV light curve about 50 d after bolometric peak, followed by a flattening beyond 250 d. We detect a constant X-ray source present for at least 86 d. The X-ray spectrum shows a total unabsorbed flux of ∼4 × 10−14 erg cm−2 s−1 and is best fit by a blackbody plus power-law model with a photon index of Γ = 0.8. A thermal X-ray model is unable to account for photons >1 keV, while a radio non-detection favours inverse-Compton scattering rather than a jet for the non-thermal component. We model the optical and UV light curves using the Modular Open-Source Fitter for Transients (MOSFiT) and find a best fit for a black hole of 5.2 × 106 M⊙ disrupting a 0.1 M⊙ star; the model suggests the star was likely only partially disrupted, based on the derived impact parameter of β = 0.6. The low optical depth implied by the small debris mass may explain how we are able to see hydrogen emission with disc-like line profiles in the spectra of AT 2018hyz (see our companion paper).
Base-intercalated and base-wedged stacking elements in 3D-structure of RNA and RNA–protein complexes
Authors: Baulin Eugene , Metelev Valeriy , Bogdanov Alexey
Published: July 2020

Along with nucleobase pairing, base-base stacking interactions are one of the two main types of strong non-covalent interactions that define the unique secondary and tertiary structure of RNA. In this paper we studied two subfamilies of nucleobase-inserted stacking structures: (i) with any base intercalated between neighboring nucleotide residues (base-intercalated element, BIE, i + 1); (ii) with any base wedged into a hydrophobic cavity formed by heterocyclic bases of two nucleotides which are one nucleotide apart in sequence (base-wedged element, BWE, i + 2). We have exploited the growing database of natively folded RNA structures in Protein Data Bank to analyze the distribution and structural role of these motifs in RNA. We found that these structural elements initially found in yeast tRNAPhe are quite widespread among the tertiary structures of various RNAs. These motifs perform diverse roles in RNA 3D structure formation and its maintenance. They contribute to the folding of RNA bulges and loops and participate in long-range interactions of single-stranded stretches within RNA macromolecules. Furthermore, both base-intercalated and base-wedged motifs participate directly or indirectly in the formation of RNA functional centers, which interact with various ligands, antibiotics and proteins.
Smoke-Free Air Interventions in Seven Latin American Countries: Health and Financial Impact to Inform Evidence-Based Policy Implementation
Authors: Bardach Ariel , Rodríguez María Belén , Ciapponi Agustín , Augustovski Federico , Andrea Alcaraz , Soto Natalie , Virgilio Sacha , Reynales-Shigematsu Luz Myriam , Roberti Javier , Pichón-Riviere Andrés
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Disease burden due to tobacco smoking in Latin America remains very high. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of implementing smoke-free air interventions on health and cost outcomes in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, using a mathematical model.

Aims and Methods

We built a probabilistic Monte Carlo microsimulation model, considering natural history, direct health system costs, and quality of life impairment associated with main tobacco-related diseases. We followed individuals in hypothetical cohorts and calculated health outcomes on an annual basis to obtain aggregated 10-year population health outcomes (deaths and events) and costs. To populate the model, we completed an overview and systematic review of the literature. Also, we calibrated the model comparing the predicted disease-specific mortality rates with those coming from local national statistics.

Results

With current policies, for the next 10 years, a total of 137 121 deaths and 917 210 events could be averted, adding 3.84 million years of healthy life and saving USD 9.2 billion in these seven countries. If countries fully implemented smoke-free air strategies, it would be possible to avert nearly 180 000 premature deaths and 1.2 million events, adding 5 million healthy years of life and saving USD 13.1 billion in direct healthcare.

Conclusions

Implementing the smoke-free air strategy would substantially reduce deaths, diseases, and health care costs attributed to smoking. Latin American countries should not delay the full implementation of this strategy.

Implications

Tobacco smoking is the single most preventable and premature mortality cause in the world. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, supported by the World Health Organization, introduced a package of evidence-based measures for tobacco control. This study adds quality evidence on the potential health effects and savings of implementing smoke-free air policies in countries representing almost 80% of the Latin America and the Caribbean population.
ABSOLUTE MEASUREMENT OF 14.57 MeV NEUTRON FLUENCE RATE USING PROTON RECOIL NEUTRON TELESCOPE
Authors: Ghodke Shobha , Sathian V , Singh Yashoda , Patel Tarun , Santra S
Published: July 2020

A single stage vacuum-type proton recoil neutron telescope (PRT) was used for accurate measurement of 14.57 MeV neutron fluence rate from an indigenously developed D-T neutron generator at Purnima, BARC. The telescope consists of a polyethylene radiator having 4 cm diameter and CsI (Tl) scintillation crystal having thickness 1.5 mm and 4 cm diameter separated by 20.5 cm kept in a vacuum chamber. The neutron detection efficiency of the telescope for 14.57 MeV neutrons was calculated analytically using n-p scattering cross section data from Evaluated Nuclear Data File VII and also evaluated using fluka simulation. The relativistic transformation of n-p differential scattering cross section from centre-of-mass to laboratory system was used for calculating the efficiency of PRT. The 14.57 MeV neutron fluence rate was also measured using copper foils. The comparison of fluence rate measured using PRT and copper foil activation techniques is presented in this paper. The total uncertainty in measurement using PRT and copper foil activation technique is found to be 3.93 and 6.97%, respectively.
Increase in ring width, vessel number and δ18O in olive trees infected with Xylella fastidiosa
Authors: Sabella Erika , Moretti Samuele , Gärtner Holger , Luvisi Andrea , De Bellis Luigi , Vergine Marzia , Saurer Matthias , Cherubini Paolo
Published: July 2020

Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) Wells, Raju et al., 1986 is a bacterium that causes plant diseases in the Americas. In Europe, it was first detected on the Salento Peninsula (Italy), where it was found to be associated with the olive quick decline syndrome. Here, we present the results of the first tree-ring study of infected and uninfected olive trees (Olea europaea L.) of two different cultivars, one resistant and one susceptible, to establish the effects induced by the spread of the pathogen inside the tree. Changes in wood anatomical characteristics, such as an increase in the number of vessels and in ring width, were observed in the infected plants of both the cultivars Cellina di Nardò (susceptible to Xf infection) and Leccino (resistant to Xf infection). Thus, whether infection affects the mortality of the tree or not, the tree shows a reaction to it. The presence of occlusions was detected in the wood of both 4-year-old branches and the tree stem core. As expected, the percentage of occluded vessels in the Xf-susceptible cultivar Cellina di Nardò was significantly higher than in the Xf-resistant cultivar Leccino. The δ 18O of the 4-year-old branches was significantly higher in infected trees of both cultivars than in noninfected trees, while no variations in δ 13C were observed. This suggests a reduction in leaf transpiration rates during infection and seems to be related to the occlusions observed in rings of the 4-year-old branches. Such occlusions can determine effects at leaf level that could influence stomatal activity. On the other hand, the significant increase in the number of vessels in infected trees could be related to the tree’s attempt to enhance water conductivity in response to the pathogen-induced vessel occlusions.
A Genome Resource of Setosphaeria turcica, Causal Agent of Northern Leaf Blight of Maize
Authors: Cao Zhiyan , Zhang Kang , Guo Xiaoyue , Turgeon B. Gillian , Dong Jingao
Published: July 2020

The heterothallic ascomycete Setosphaeria turcica (anamorph Exserohilum turcicum) causes northern corn leaf blight, which results in devastating yield losses and a reduction in feed value. Although genome sequences of two model strains of the pathogen are available ( https://mycocosm.jgi.doe.gov/mycocosm/home ), previous drafts were assembled using short read technologies, making evolutionary and genetic linkage inferences difficult. Here, race 23N of S. turcica strain Et28A was sequenced again using Illumina HiSeq and PacBio Sequel technologies, and assembled to approximately 43,480,261 bp on 30 scaffolds. In all, 13,183 protein-coding genes were predicted, 13,142 of them were well annotated. This S. turcica genome resource is important for understanding the genetics behind pathogen evolution and infection mechanisms.
Innovative Bioactive Glass Fiber Technology Accelerates Wound Healing and Minimizes Costs: A Case Series
Authors: Buck Donald W.
Published: July 2020

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and value of a novel borate-based bioactive glass fiber (BBGF) advanced wound matrix in the treatment of chronic wounds.

METHODS

Four patients with chronic wounds that had failed multiple prior treatments were identified and treated with the BBGF technology. Patient demographics, wound characteristics, and prior treatment history were obtained. Costs associated with prior treatments were estimated and recorded using available cost data.

RESULTS

The average wound duration prior to initiation of BBGF treatment was 391 days. All of the patients had a history of multiple failed interventions, including operative procedures, negative-pressure wound therapy, cellular and/or tissue-based products, dermal grafts, and synthetic wound matrices. Prior interventions resulted in an average estimated cost of $87,750 per patient. All of the patients achieved complete wound closure in an average of 55 days using BBGF treatment. Patients were treated with 3.3 applications of the BBGF product on average, with an average cost of $3,564. The use of the BBGF advanced wound matrix on initial presentation could have saved the healthcare system an average of $84,186 per patient and reduced wound duration by an average of 336 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The BBGF advanced wound matrix resulted in the healing of chronic wounds that had failed multiple prior interventions. In this series of challenging cases, BBGF accelerated healing while minimizing costs and improving patient outcomes. By offering an effective therapy at a low cost, BBGF has the potential to add significant value for both the healthcare system and the patient.
Type VII All-epiphyseal Fractures of the Lateral Malleolus and the Origin of Subfibular Ossicles
Authors: Gamble James G.
Published: July 2020

Background:

A subfibular ossicle (SO), also known as an os subfibulare, is present in ∼1% of the general population. Two theories have been proposed to explain the origin of SOs: (1) as a failure of fusion of a secondary center of ossification; (2) as a posttraumatic sequela. This report offers prospective, longitudinal radiographic evidence for the formation of SOs as a posttraumatic sequela of type VII transepiphyseal fractures of the lateral malleolus in children.

Methods:

This Institutional Review Board–approved study was performed at a tertiary care pediatric hospital from March 2012 to April 2019. The study group included 37 children with a type VII fracture of the lateral malleolus and a minimum follow-up of 6 months.

Results:

Twenty-one children (57%) healed their fracture. Sixteen children (43%) went on to form SOs. The most common location for the fractures was the distal third of the epiphysis, and the most common fracture type forming SOs was a sleeve avulsion fracture. Four of the children forming SOs have had surgery to address pain and recurrent sprains.

Conclusions:

Overall, 43% of children who sustained a type VII fracture of the lateral malleolus went on to form SOs, giving support to the posttraumatic theory of origin. Sleeve avulsion fractures have the greatest chance of forming SOs. So far, 4 of the 16 children forming SOs have undergone surgery for ankle pain and recurrent sprains.

Level of Evidence:

Level II.
Indications of next-generation sequencing in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Heimann Pierre , Dewispelaere Laurent
Published: July 2020

Purpose of review

In this study, we will give an overview on the current and foreseeable indications of next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based technologies for the diagnosis, prognostic assessment and decision of individualized treatment strategy in lymphomas.

Recent findings

Recent NGS-based studies have offered a comprehensive knowledge of the genetic landscapes featuring B-cell and T-cell lymphomas, with identification of genomic biomarkers useful for a better subclassification and, therefore, for a more accurate diagnosis. NGS analyses in lymphoma have also unveiled recurrent somatic mutations representing novel potential therapeutic targets or underlying drug resistance, and paved the way for tailor-made medicine. High throughput sequencing methods may also identify lymphoma-specific genetic aberrations in circulating tumoral DNA (liquid biopsy) obtained from blood samples. This suggests the possibility of performing minimally invasive diagnosis and real-time monitoring, with early detection of relapse and possibility of response-adapted therapy approaches.

NGS analyses should be included shortly in the diagnostic work up of lymphomas. Applying NGS to liquid biopsy at diagnosis and during follow up of lymphoma patients will be a significant breakthrough towards precision medicine.
The evolution of a national, advanced airway management simulation-based course for anaesthesia trainees
Authors: Rewers Mikael , Østergaard Doris
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Needs analyses involving patient complaints and anaesthesiologists’ confidence levels in difficult airway management procedures in Denmark have shown a need for training in both technical and non-technical skills.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an example of how to design, implement and evaluate a national simulation-based course in advanced airway management for trainees within a compulsory, national specialist training programme.

DESIGN AND RESULTS

A national working group, established by the Danish Society for Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, designed a standardised simulation course in advanced airway management for anaesthesiology trainees based on the six-step approach. Learning objectives are grounded in the curriculum and analyses-of-needs (in terms of knowledge, skills and attitudes, including non-technical skills, which encompass the cognitive skills and social skills, necessary for safe and effective performance). A total of 28 courses for 800 trainees have been conducted. Evaluation has been positive and pre and posttests have indicated a positive effect on learning.

CONCLUSION

The course was successfully designed and implemented within the national training programme for trainees. Important factors for success were involvement of all stakeholders, thorough planning, selection of the most important learning objectives, the use of interactive educational methods and training of the facilitators.
Detection of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis DNA in Buccal Swab Samples from Children in Lima, Peru
Authors: Flores Juan A. , Calderón Roger , Mesman Annelies W. , Soto Martin , Coit Julia , Aliaga Juan , Mendoza Milagros , Leon Segundo R. , Konda Kelika , Mestanza Francisco M. , Mendoza Carlos J. , Lecca Leonid , Murray Megan B. , Holmberg Rebecca C. , Pollock Nira R. , Franke Molly F.
Published: July 2020

We examined Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA detection from buccal swab samples collected from children in Lima, Peru. DNA was extracted and amplified via real-time polymerase chain reaction. Sensitivity was 21% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7%–42%) in 24 culture-confirmed tuberculosis cases and 4.6% (95% CI: 1%–13%) in 65 clinically diagnosed unconfirmed cases. Sensitivity was highest for smear-positive tuberculosis. Specificity was 99% in the 199 controls (95% CI: 96%–100%).
Precision pulse capsulotomy: performance metrics and utility in routine and complex cases
Authors: Ifantides Cristos , Lee Junhun , Rouweyha Rajy , Vital Mark , Sretavan David
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate precision pulse capsulotomy (PPC) performance.

Setting:

University and private practice in the United States and South Korea.

Design:

Multicenter retrospective analysis.

Methods:

The surgical videos of 337 cataract surgeries with PPC capsulotomy performed by 4 surgeons at 4 centers were used to assess capsulotomy outcomes including completion rate, diameter, roundness (ovality), and quality of capsular overlap.

Results:

PPC use resulted in 99.4% free-floating capsulotomies from 337 cases. Video image analysis in a subset (n = 52) yielded a mean capsulotomy diameter of 5.0 mm ± 0.16 mm SD (95% CI, 4.96-5.04 mm). Capsulotomies were round to slightly oval at the end of the case with a mean ovality of 3.0% ± 2.86% (95% CI, 2.22%-3.78%; 360 degrees capsular overlap was obtained in 98% of cases. The offset of the capsulotomy center with the intraocular lens (IOL) optic center was 197 μm ± 122 μm (SD) (95% CI, 148-246 μm). PPC was used successfully in traumatic cataracts with compromised anterior and posterior capsule, phacodonesis, intumescent cataract with constricted pupil, and zonular dialysis and in penetrating keratoplasty with open-sky extracapsular cataract extraction.

Conclusions:

Surgeons obtained good PPC capsulotomy outcomes in routine and challenging cases. Little variation was observed in achieving free-floating capsulotomies with approximately 5.0 mm diameter and complete capsular overlap. Variation was observed in the amount of offset between the capsulotomy center and the center of the IOL optic. PPC was useful in cases with multiple comorbidities that challenge capsulotomy performance.
Validation of the Globalcare GCE603 automated blood pressure monitor for self-measurement according to the European Society of Hypertension International Protocol revision 2010
Authors: Song Cheng , Yu Yang , Lu Bao-Chuan , Yan Xi-Ling
Published: July 2020

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of the automated oscillometric upper-arm blood pressure (BP) monitor Globalcare GCE603 for home BP monitoring according to the International Protocol of the European Society of Hypertension (ESH) revision 2010.

Methods

BP was sequentially measured in 33 adult participants and compared with a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. A total of 99 comparison pairs were obtained and analyzed according to the ESH international protocol.

Results

For the 33 eligible participants, the device achieved 80/99, 98/99 and 99/99 measurements of absolute differences between device and observers within 5, 10 and 15 mmHg for systolic BP (SBP) and 87/99, 98/99 and 99/99 for diastolic BP (DBP), respectively. The average device-observer difference was 1.01 ± 4.11 mmHg for SBP and −0.69 ± 3.56 mmHg for DBP, respectively. The number of participants with two or three of the device-observer difference within 5 mmHg was 28 for SBP and 30 for DBP, and there was no subject with none of the device-observer difference within 5 mmHg.

Conclusion

According to the validation results on the basis of the ESH international protocol revision 2010, the Globalcare GCE603 automated upper-arm BP monitor can be recommended for home measurement in general population.
Postural blood pressure changes in the elderly: orthostatic hypotension and hypertension
Authors: Kocyigit Suleyman Emre , Erken Neziha , Dokuzlar Ozge , Dost Gunay Fatma Sena , Ates Bulut Esra , Aydin Ali Ekrem , Soysal Pinar , Isik Ahmet Turan
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Orthostatic hypotension is a well-known disorder, but orthostatic hypertension (OHT) still remains unclear in older adults. The aim of this study was to determine the comparison orthostatic hypotension with OHT according to fall risk and geriatric assessment parameters.

Methods

A total of 741 patients who were admitted to the geriatric clinic and underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment were reviewed. Orthostatic blood pressure changes were measured by head-up-tilt Table test within the first three minutes. Orthostatic hypotension was defined as 20 or 10-mmHg drop in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure from supine to standing position. OHT was defined as an increase in systolic blood pressure of 10 mmHg or more while the patient was standing up from the supine position.

Results

The mean age was 75 ± 8 and 65. About 65% of all participants were female. The rate of orthostatic hypotension and OHT was 17.3 and 7.2%, respectively. The falls and dementia were more frequent, and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) score was lower in orthostatic hypotension group than in OHT and control groups (P < 0.05). These variables were similar between OHT and control groups (P > 0.05). The rates of falls [odds ratio (OR) = 2.02; 95% confidence interval (CI), (0.94–4.33); P = 0.044] and dementia [OR = 2.65; 95% CI, (1.08–6.48); P = 0.032] in orthostatic hypotension group were still higher than in OHT group, even after adjusting for age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate and drugs.

Conclusion

Orthostatic hypotension may be more significant in terms of falls, dementia and impaired IADLs scores in older adults than in OHT and control groups. It seems that OHT may be of no clinical importance in geriatric practice.
A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Doeve Benthe H. , van de Meeberg Maartje M. , van Schaik Fiona D.M. , Fidder Herma H.
Published: July 2020

Goal and Background:

A number of studies have investigated the effectiveness of cannabis or cannabinoids for treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). We aimed to systematically analyze their effect in in the treatment of IBD patients.

Study:

We included randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized studies analyzing IBD patients of any age using cannabi(noid)s. Two reviewers searched 3 databases until August 13, 2019. Primary outcome was clinical remission and secondary outcomes included inflammatory biomarkers, symptom improvement, quality of life (QoL) scores, and hospital outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed according to study type. The meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model with subgroup analyses based on study type.

Results:

The search identified 682 records of which 15 nonrandomized studies and 5 randomized controlled trials were eligible for inclusion. The meta-analysis of the primary outcome included 146 randomized participants, all 18 years of age or older. Risk of bias was moderate. Cannabi(noid)s were not effective at inducing remission (risk ratio=1.56, 95% confidence interval=0.99-2.46). No effect on inflammatory biomarkers was observed. However, clinical symptoms (abdominal pain, general well-being, nausea, diarrhea, and poor appetite) all improved with cannabi(noid)s on Likert-scales. Baseline QoL scores were lower in patients using cannabis among cohort studies but improved significantly with cannabi(noid)s. Although length of hospital stay was shorter and risk of parenteral nutrition was lower in patients using cannabis, there was no effect on other IBD complications.

Conclusions:

Cannabi(noid)s do not induce clinical remission or affect inflammation in IBD patients. However, cannabi(noid)s significantly improve patient-reported symptoms and QoL.
Muscle deficits with normal bone microarchitecture and geometry in young adults with well-controlled childhood-onset Crohn’s disease
Authors: Steell Lewis , Johnston Blair A. , Dewantoro Dickson , Foster John E. , Gaya Daniel R. , Macdonald Jonathan , McMillan Martin , Russell Richard K. , Seenan John Paul , Ahmed S. Faisal , Gray Stuart R. , Wong Sze Choong
Published: July 2020

Background

Muscle–bone deficits are common in pediatric Crohn’s disease; however, few studies have assessed long-term musculoskeletal outcomes in adults with childhood-onset Crohn’s disease. This study assessed the prevalence of musculoskeletal deficits in young adults with childhood-onset Crohn’s disease compared with healthy controls.

Methods

High-resolution MRI and MR spectroscopy were used to assess bone microarchitecture, cortical geometry and muscle area, and adiposity at distal femur and bone marrow adiposity (BMA) at lumbar spine. Muscle function and biomarkers of the muscle-bone unit were also assessed.

Results

Twenty-seven adults with Crohn’s disease with median (range) age 23.2 years (18.0, 36.1) and 27 age and sex-matched controls were recruited. Trabecular microarchitecture, cortical geometry and BMA were not different between Crohn’s disease and controls (P > 0.05 for all). Muscle area was lower (P = 0.01) and muscle fat fraction was higher (P = 0.04) at the distal femur in Crohn’s disease compared to controls. Crohn’s disease participants had lower grip strength [-4.3 kg (95% confidence interval (CI), -6.8 to -1.8), P = 0.001] and relative muscle power [-5.0 W/kg (95% CI, -8.8 to -1.2), P = 0.01]. Crohn’s disease activity scores negatively associated with trabecular bone volume (r = -0.40, P = 0.04) and muscle area (r = -0.41, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Young adults with well-controlled Crohn’s disease managed with contemporary therapies did not display abnormal bone microarchitecture or geometry at the distal femur but exhibited muscle deficits. The observed muscle deficits may predispose to musculoskeletal morbidity in future and interventions to improve muscle mass and function warrant investigation.
Seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in Argentinean blood donors
Authors: Di Lello Federico A. , Blejer Jorgelina , Alter Adriana , Bartoli Sonia , Vargas Fabiana , Ruiz Rosángela , Galli Claudio , Blanco Sebastián , Carrizo Luis Horacio , Gallego Sandra , Fernández Roberto , Martínez Alfredo P. , Flichman Diego M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the main cause of enteric acute viral hepatitis worldwide. In this epidemiological framework, it has become a threat to blood safety and a relevant issue for blood transfusions. However, there is a paucity of data regarding prevalence of HEV infection. The aim of this study was to determine HEV seroprevalence in blood donors from different regions from Argentina.

Material and methods

Serum samples from 391 individuals attending five blood donor centers located in different regions from Argentina were analyzed for anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM.

Results

Overall, anti-HEV IgG was detected in 44 out of 391 (11.3%) samples. HEV prevalence ranged from 5.1 to 20.0% among different country regions. A significant difference in blood donors’ age was observed between anti-HEV IgG positive and negative individuals [44 (37–51) vs. 35 (27–43), P < 0.001, respectively]. Anti-HEV IgM was detected in 8 out of 44 (18.2%) anti-HEV IgG positive cases.

Conclusion

Anti-HEV IgG was detected in blood donor samples from five analyzed Argentinean regions, highlighting the wide distribution of the virus in the country. HEV prevalence was variable among different regions and significantly higher in older donors. Given the evidence of anti-HEV IgM presence in blood donors, suggesting a potential risk of transfusion-transmitted HEV, screening for HEV in blood units to be used in vulnerable population would be desirable. Molecular studies for detection of viremic donors and donor–recipients follow-up are necessary to certainly determine the risk of transfusion-transmitted HEV in Argentina.
Relationships of Bone Mineral Density to Whole Body Mass, Fat Mass and Fat-free Mass in Long-term Survivors of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Childhood
Authors: Athale Uma H. , Marriott Christopher J.C. , Cranston Amy , McDonald Paula , Webber Colin E. , Farncombe Troy H. , Barr Ronald D.
Published: July 2020

Body size influences bone mineral density (BMD) in health. Relationships of BMD with body mass index, fat mass (FM), fat-free mass, and appendicular lean mass were explored in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors (n=75; 41 males; 45 standard risk ALL) >10 years from diagnosis. Dual energy radiograph absorptiometry performed body composition analysis. Relationships were assessed by regression analyses and Pearson correlation coefficients (r). Twenty subjects (26.3%) were osteopenic; lumbar spine (LS) BMD Z score <−1.00. Age at diagnosis, sex, ALL risk-category, type of post-induction steroid or cranial radiation did not correlate with LS or whole body (WB) BMD. Body mass index correlated significantly with LS BMD (r=0.333, P=0.004) and WB BMD (r=0.271, P=0.033). FM index (FM/height²) Z score showed no significant correlation with LS or WB BMD. Fat-free mass index Z score correlated strongly with LS BMD (r=0.386, P=0.013) and WB BMD (r=0.605, P<0.001) in males but not in females. The appendicular lean mass index, a surrogate for skeletal muscle mass, correlated significantly with LS BMD (r=0.367, P=0.018) and WB BMD (r=0.604, P<0.001) in males but not in females. Future studies to evaluate interventions to enhance BMD focused on improving body composition particularly skeletal muscle mass are warranted.
An overview on wearing the face mask to avoid transmission of coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Mohammadbeigi Maryam , Alizadeh Koshkohi Safarali , Meskini Maryam
Published: July 2020

In December 2019, a report of a novel coronaviruses which called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 from Wuhan, China shocked the world. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 affects both humans and animals. Here, we attempted to have an overview of different perspectives of the need to use a face mask against coronavirus disease 2019. The primary objective of this article is to reinforce awareness of common hazards in which voluntary and precautionary use of face mask respirators may be advantageous to healthy people and the safety of the healthcare workers.
COVID-19 Ischemic Strokes as an Emerging Rehabilitation Population
Authors: Diaz-Segarra Nicole , Edmond Arline , Kunac Anastasia , Yonclas Peter
Published: July 2020

There is emerging literature that coronavirus disease 2019 infections result in an increased incidence of thrombosis secondary to a prothrombotic state. Initial studies reported ischemic strokes primarily occurring in the critically ill coronavirus disease 2019 population. However, there have been reports of ischemic strokes as the presenting symptom in young noncritically ill coronavirus disease 2019 patients without significant risk factors. Further characterization of the coronavirus disease 2019 stroke population is needed. We present four cases of coronavirus disease 2019 ischemic strokes occurring in patients aged 37–68 yrs with varying coronavirus disease 2019 infection severities, premorbid risk factors, clinical presentations (eg, focal and nonfocal), and vascular distributions. These cases highlight the heterogeneity of coronavirus disease 2019 ischemic strokes. The duration of the coronavirus disease 2019–related prothrombotic state is unknown, and it is unclear whether patients are at risk for recurrent strokes. With more coronavirus disease 2019 patients recovering and being discharged to rehabilitation, physiatric awareness of this prothrombotic state and increased incidence of ischemic strokes is essential. Because of the variable presentation of coronavirus disease 2019 ischemic strokes, clinicians can consider neuroimaging as part of the evaluation in coronavirus disease 2019 patients with either acute focal or nonfocal neurologic symptoms. Additional studies are needed to clarify prothrombotic state duration, determine prognosis for recovery, and establish the physiatrist’s role in long-term disease management.
Ex Vivo Analysis of Kidney Graft Viability Using 31P Magnetic Resonance Imaging Spectroscopy
Authors: Longchamp Alban , Klauser Antoine , Songeon Julien , Agius Thomas , Nastasi Antonio , Ruttiman Raphael , Moll Solange , Meier Raphael P. H. , Buhler Leo , Corpataux Jean-Marc , Lazeyras Francois
Published: July 2020

Background.

The lack of organs for kidney transplantation is a growing concern. Expansion in organ supply has been proposed through the use of organs after circulatory death (donation after circulatory death [DCD]). However, many DCD grafts are discarded because of long warm ischemia times, and the absence of reliable measure of kidney viability. 31P magnetic resonance imaging (pMRI) spectroscopy is a noninvasive method to detect high-energy phosphate metabolites, such as ATP. Thus, pMRI could predict kidney energy state, and its viability before transplantation.

Methods.

To mimic DCD, pig kidneys underwent 0, 30, or 60 min of warm ischemia, before hypothermic machine perfusion. During the ex vivo perfusion, we assessed energy metabolites using pMRI. In addition, we performed Gadolinium perfusion sequences. Each sample underwent histopathological analyzing and scoring. Energy status and kidney perfusion were correlated with kidney injury.

Results.

Using pMRI, we found that in pig kidney, ATP was rapidly generated in presence of oxygen (100 kPa), which remained stable up to 22 h. Warm ischemia (30 and 60 min) induced significant histological damages, delayed cortical and medullary Gadolinium elimination (perfusion), and reduced ATP levels, but not its precursors (AMP). Finally, ATP levels and kidney perfusion both inversely correlated with the severity of kidney histological injury.

Conclusions.

ATP levels, and kidney perfusion measurements using pMRI, are biomarkers of kidney injury after warm ischemia. Future work will define the role of pMRI in predicting kidney graft and patient’s survival.
Early Impact of COVID-19 on Solid Organ Transplantation in the United States
Authors: Cholankeril George , Podboy Alexander , Alshuwaykh Omar S. , Kim Donghee , Kanwal Fasiha , Esquivel Carlos O. , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: July 2020

Background.

The regional impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on solid organ transplantation in the United States has not been fully evaluated.

Methods.

A retrospective analysis of month-to-month trends on waitlist additions, waitlist deaths, and transplant surgeries between all United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) regions was performed. A linear regression model trained on historical data was used to estimate anticipated transplantation volume.

Results.

All UNOS regions reported a decrease in total waitlist additions and transplant surgeries. The largest decreases in total transplants were identified in regions 1, 2, 6, and 9, with regions 2, 7, 8, and 9 noting the largest decrease in waitlist additions. Six of the 11 regions noted increases in waitlist deaths, with UNOS regions 9, 1, and 2, all located within the Northeast, noting the highest percent increase in waitlist deaths at 170%, 89%, and 54%, respectively. The largest reductions in solid organ transplantation and waitlist deaths were seen in kidney and lung transplantation. Current transplantation volume is significantly lower than the low range of the 95% confidence interval derived from the linear regression model (2182 versus 3110; P < 0.05).

Conclusions.

Significant decreases in total waitlist additions and transplant surgeries with increases in waitlist deaths were noted in the majority of US transplant domains. The impact was especially prevalent in areas with high burden of coronavirus disease 2019 infection. National and regional strategies aimed at minimizing disruptions in transplantation are needed.
EEG Beta-Band Spectral Entropy Can Predict the Effect of Drug Treatment on Pain in Patients With Herpes Zoster
Authors: Wei Mengying , Liao Yuliang , Liu Jia , Li Linling , Huang Gan , Huang Jiabin , Li Disen , Xiao Lizu , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: July 2020

Background:

Medication is the main approach for early treatment of herpes zoster, but it could be ineffective in some patients. It is highly desired to predict the medication responses to control the degree of pain for herpes zoster patients. The present study is aimed to elucidate the relationship between medication outcome and neural activity using EEG and to establish a machine learning model for early prediction of the medication responses from EEG.

Methods:

The authors acquired and analyzed eye-closed resting-state EEG data 1 to 2 days after medication from 70 herpes zoster patients with different drug treatment outcomes (measured 5–6 days after medication): 45 medication-sensitive pain patients and 25 medication-resistant pain patients. EEG power spectral entropy of each frequency band was compared at each channel between medication-sensitive pain and medication-resistant pain patients, and those features showing significant difference between two groups were used to predict medication outcome with different machine learning methods.

Results:

Medication-sensitive pain patients showed significantly weaker beta-band power spectral entropy in the central–parietal regions than medication-resistant pain patients. Based on these EEG power spectral entropy features and a k-nearest neighbors classifier, the medication outcome can be predicted with 80% ± 11.7% accuracy, 82.5% ± 14.7% sensitivity, 77.7% ± 27.3% specificity, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.85.

Conclusions:

EEG beta-band power spectral entropy in the central–parietal region is predictive of the effectiveness of drug treatment on herpes zoster patients, and it could potentially be used for early pain management and therapeutic prognosis.
Non-additive polygenic models improve predictions of fitness traits in three eukaryote model species
Authors: Exposito-Alonso Moises , Wilton Peter , Nielsen Rasmus
Published: July 2020

To describe a living organism it is often said that “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts”. In genetics, we may also think that the effect of multiple mutations on an organism is greater than their additive individual effect, a phenomenon called epistasis or multiplicity. Despite the last decade’s discovery that many disease- and fitness-related traits are polygenic, or controlled by many genetic variants, it is still debated whether the effects of individual genes combine additively or not. Here we develop a flexible likelihood framework for genome-wide associations to fit complex traits such as fitness under both additive and non-additive polygenic architectures. Analyses of simulated datasets under different true additive, multiplicative, or other epistatic models, confirm that our method can identify global non-additive selection. Applying the model to experimental datasets of wild type lines ofArabidopsis thaliana, Drosophila melanogaster, andSaccharomyces cerevisiae, we find that fitness is often best explained with non-additive polygenic models. Instead, a multiplicative polygenic model appears to better explain fitness in some experimental environments. The statistical models presented here have the potential to improve prediction of phenotypes, such as disease susceptibility, over the standard methods for calculating polygenic scores which assume additivity.
The age and sex distribution of COVID-19 cases and fatalities in India
Authors: Gupta Sourendu
Published: July 2020

Using anonymous publicly available data on COVID-19 infections and gross outcomes in India, the age and sex distribution of infections and fatalities is studied. The age structure in the count of infections is not proportional to that in the population, indicating the role of either co-morbidity or differential attack rate. There is a strong age structure in the sex ratio of cases, with the female to male ratio being about 50% on average. The ratio drops between puberty and menopause. No such structure is visible in the sex ratio of fatalities. The overall age distribution of fatalities is consistent with a model which uses the empirical age structure of infections and a previous determinations of age structured IFR. The average IFR for India is then expected to be 0.4% with a 95% CrI in [0.22%, 0.77%].
A parsimonious model for spatial transmission and heterogeneity in the COVID-19 propagation
Authors: Roques Lionel , Bonnefon Olivier , Baudrot Virgile , Soubeyrand Samuel , Berestycki Henri
Published: July 2020

Raw data on the cumulative number of deaths at a country level generally indicate a spatially variable distribution of the incidence of COVID-19 disease. An important issue is to determine whether this spatial pattern is a consequence of environmental heterogeneities, such as the climatic conditions, during the course of the outbreak. Another fundamental issue is to understand the spatial spreading of COVID-19. To address these questions, we consider four candidate epidemiological models with varying complexity in terms of initial conditions, contact rates and non-local transmissions, and we fit them to French mortality data with a mixed probabilistic-ODE approach. Using standard statistical criteria, we select the model with non-local transmission corresponding to a diffusion on the graph of counties that depends on the geographic proximity, with time-dependent contact rate and spatially constant parameters. This original spatially parsimonious model suggests that in a geographically middle size centralized country such as France, once the epidemic is established, the effect of global processes such as restriction policies, sanitary measures and social distancing overwhelms the effect of local factors. Additionally, this modeling approach reveals the latent epidemiological dynamics including the local level of immunity, and allows us to evaluate the role of non-local interactions on the future spread of the disease. In view of its theoretical and numerical simplicity and its ability to accurately track the COVID-19 epidemic curves, the framework we develop here, in particular the non-local model and the associated estimation procedure, is of general interest in studying spatial dynamics of epidemics.
Biodiversity and Antimicrobial Potential of Bacterial Endophytes from HalophyteSalicornia brachiata
Authors: Singh Sanju , Ghadge Vishal , Kumar Pankaj , Mathew Doniya Elze , Dhimmar Asmita , Sahastrabudhe Harshal , Nalli Yedukondalu , Rathod Mina R. , Shinde Pramod B.
Published: July 2020

Untapped natural habitats like halophytes, marsh land, and marine environment are suitable arena for chemical ecology between plants and microbes having environmental impact. Endophytes constitute an ecofriendly option for the promotion of plant growth and to serve as sustainable resources of novel bioactive natural products. The present study focusing on biodiversity of bacterial endophytes fromSalicornia brachiata, led to isolation of around 350 bacterial endophytes. Phylogenetic analysis of 63 endophytes revealed 13 genera with 29 different species, belonging to 3 major groups: Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. 30% isolates belonging to various genera demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal activities against a panel of human, plant, and aquatic infectious agents. An endophytic isolateBacillus amyloliquefaciens5NPA-1, exhibited strong in-vitro antibacterial activity against human pathogenS. aureusand phytopathogenX. campestris. Investigation through LC-MS/MS-based molecular networking and bioactivity-guided purification led to the identification of three bioactive compounds belonging to lipopeptide class on the basis of1H- and13C-NMR and MS analysis. To our knowledge, this is the first report studying bacterial endophytic biodiversity ofSalicornia brachiataand isolation of bioactive compounds from its endophyte. Overall, the present study provides insights into the diversity of endophytes associated with the plants from the extreme environment as rich source of metabolites with remarkable agricultural applications and therapeutic properties.
Polygenic prediction of school performance in children with and without psychiatric disorders
Authors: Rajagopal Veera M. , Trabjerg Betina B , Grove Jakob , Horsdal Henriette T. , Petersen Liselotte , Bulik Cynthia M. , Bybjerg-Grauholm Jonas , Bækvad-Hansen Marie , Hougaard David M , Mors Ole , Nordentoft Merete , Werge Thomas , Mortensen Preben Bo , Agerbo Esben , Borglum Anders D. , Demontis Ditte
Published: July 2020

Suboptimal school performance is often seen in children with psychiatric disorders and is influenced by both genetics and the environment. Educational attainment polygenic score (EA-PGS) has been shown to significantly predict school performance in the general population. Here we analyze the association of EA-PGS with school performance in 18,495 children with and 12,487, without one or more of six psychiatric disorders and show that variance explained in the school performance by the EA-PGS is substantially lower in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Accounting for parents’ socioeconomic status obliterated the variance difference between ADHD–but not ASD–and controls. Given that a large proportion of the prediction performance of EA-PGS originate from family environment, our findings hint that family environmental influences on school performance might differ between ADHD and controls; studying the same further will open new avenues to improve the school performance of children with ADHD.