bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine tuning of hormonal signaling is linked to dormancy status in sweet cherry flower buds
Authors: Vimont Noémie , Schwarzenberg Adrian , Domijan Mirela , Donkpegan Armel S L , Beauvieux Rémi , le Dantec Loïck , Arkoun Mustapha , Jamois Frank , Yvin Jean-Claude , Wigge Philip A , Dirlewanger Elisabeth , Cortijo Sandra , Wenden Bénédicte
Published: September 2020

In temperate trees, optimal timing and quality of flowering directly depend on adequate winter dormancy progression, regulated by a combination of chilling and warm temperatures. Physiological, genetic and functional genomic studies have shown that hormones play a key role in bud dormancy establishment, maintenance and release. We combined physiological and transcriptional analyses, quantification of abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellins (GAs), and modeling to further investigate how these signaling pathways are associated with dormancy progression in the flower buds of two sweet cherry cultivars. Our results demonstrated that GA-associated pathways have distinct functions and may be differentially related with dormancy. In addition, ABA levels rise at the onset of dormancy, associated with enhanced expression of ABA biosynthesis PavNCED genes, and decreased prior to dormancy release. Following the observations that ABA levels are correlated with dormancy depth, we identified PavUG71B6, a sweet cherry UDP-GLYCOSYLTRANSFERASE gene that up-regulates active catabolism of ABA to ABA glucosyl ester (ABA-GE) and may be associated with low ABA content in the early cultivar. Subsequently, we modeled ABA content and dormancy behavior in three cultivars based on the expression of a small set of genes regulating ABA levels. These results strongly suggest the central role of ABA pathway in the control of dormancy progression and open up new perspectives for the development of molecular-based phenological modeling.
Contrasting physiological traits of shade tolerance in Pinus and Podocarpaceae native to a tropical Vietnamese forest: insight from an aberrant flat-leaved pine
Authors: Schmiege Stephanie C , Buckley Brendan M , Stevenson Dennis , Cuong Truong Quang , Nam Le Canh , Griffin Kevin L
Published: September 2020

The absence of pines from tropical forests is a puzzling biogeographical oddity potentially explained by traits of shade intolerance. Pinus krempfii (Lecomte), a flat-leaved pine endemic to the Central Highlands of Vietnam, provides a notable exception as it seems to compete successfully with shade-tolerant tropical species. Here, we test the hypothesis that successful conifer performance at the juvenile stage depends on physiological traits of shade tolerance by comparing the physiological characteristics of P. krempfii to coexisting species from two taxa: the genus Pinus, and a relatively abundant and shade-tolerant conifer family found in pantropical forests, the Podocarpaceae. We examined leaf photosynthetic, respiratory and biochemical traits. Additionally, we compiled attainable maximum photosynthesis, maximum RuBP carboxylation (Vcmax) and maximum electron transport (Jmax) values for Pinus and Podocarpaceae species from the literature. In our literature compilation, P. krempfii was intermediate between Pinus and Podocarpaceae in its maximum photosynthesis and its Vcmax. Pinus exhibited a higher Vcmax than Podocarpaceae, resulting in a less steep slope in the linear relationship between Jmax and Vcmax. These results suggest that Pinus may be more shade intolerant than Podocarpaceae, with P. krempfii falling between the two taxa. However, in contrast, Vietnamese conifers’ leaf mass per areas and biochemical traits did not highlight the same intermediate nature of P. krempfii. Furthermore, regardless of leaf morphology or family assignation, all species demonstrated a common and extremely high carbon gain efficiency. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of shade-tolerant photosynthetic traits for conifer survival in tropical forests. However, they also demonstrate a diversity of shade tolerance strategies, all of which lead to the persistence of Vietnamese juvenile conifers in low-light tropical understories.
Increasing Resistance to Reserve Antibiotics: The Experience of a Tertiary Level Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Annamalai Anushya , Gupta Varsha , Jain Suksham , Datta Priya
Published: September 2020

Background

Blood stream infections are considered as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates. Recent trend shows increasing resistance to commonly used antibiotics.

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study is to find the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of various bacteria from blood samples in neonates and associated risk factors.

Methods

All consecutive cases of intramural neonatal sepsis were enrolled for >12 months. Before starting or changing antibiotic, blood sample under all aseptic precautions was taken for culture. Clinical and demographic details were recorded to analyze risk factors for sepsis. Antibiotic sensitivity tests were done as per CLSI 2019 guidelines.

Results

Of the 898 participants, 107 showed culture positivity. Klebsiella pneumoniae (25.2%) and Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (23.3%). The blood culture positivity rate was 11.9%. Approximately 79% of isolates were multidrug-resistant: extended-spectrum beta-lactamase 90%, carbapenemase-resistant Enterobacteriaceae 27.7% and MRSA 43%. The risk factors found to be associated with sepsis were period of gestation ≤37 weeks, meconium-stained liquor, birth weight <1500 g, mechanical ventilation, partial exchange transfusion, duration of antibiotics for >10 days and duration of both NICU stay and hospital stay for >10 days. The case fatality rate (CFR) was more due to K. pneumoniae (19.2%) and the relative risk of death was 2.53 in culture-positive cases with an attributable risk of 60% and the population attributable risk of 15.4%.

Conclusion

Increase in antibiotic resistance organisms can lead to an increase in the neonatal CFR, so regular surveillance is needed.
Genome-Wide Wheat 55K SNP-Based Mapping of Stripe Rust Resistance Loci in Wheat Cultivar Shaannong 33 and Their Alleles Frequencies in Current Chinese Wheat Cultivars and Breeding Lines
Authors: Huang Shuo , Liu Shengjie , Zhang Yibo , Xie Yanzhou , Wang Xiaoting , Jiao Hanxuan , Wu Shushu , Zeng Qingdong , Wang Qilin , Singh Ravi P. , Bhavani Sridhar , Kang Zhensheng , Wang Chengshe , Han Dejun , Wu Jianhui
Published: September 2020

Wheat cultivar Shaannong 33 (SN33) has remained highly resistant to stripe rust in the field since its release in 2009. To unravel the genetic architecture of stripe rust resistance, seedlings of 161 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from the cross Avocet S × SN33 were evaluated with two isolates (PST-Lab.1 and PST-Lab.2) of the stripe rust pathogen (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici) in the greenhouse, and the RILs were evaluated in naturally or artificially inoculated field sites during two cropping seasons. The RILs and parents were genotyped with the wheat 55K single-nucleotide polymorphism array. Three genomic regions conferring seedling resistance were mapped on chromosomes 1DS, 2AS, and 3DS, and four consistent quantitative trait loci (QTL) for adult-plant resistance (APR) were detected on 1BL, 2AS, 3DL, and 6BS. The 2AS locus conferring all-stage resistance was identified as the resistant gene Yr17 located on 2NS translocation. The QTL identified on 1BL and 6BS likely correspond to Yr29 and Yr78, respectively. An APR QTL on 3DL explaining 5.8 to 12.2% of the phenotypic variation is likely to be new. Molecular marker detection assays with the 2NS segment (Yr17), Yr29, Yr78, and QYrsn.nwafu-3DL on a panel of 420 current Chinese wheat cultivars and breeding lines indicated that these genes were present in 11.4, 7.6, 14.8, and 7.4% of entries, respectively. The interactions among these genes and QTL were additive, suggesting their potential value in enhancing stripe rust resistance breeding materials as observed in the resistant parent. In addition, we also identified two leaf necrosis genes, Ne1 and Ne2; however, the F1 plants from cross Avocet S × SN33 survived, indicating that SN33 probably has another allele of Ne1 which allows seed to be harvested.
Implementation of a “Serenity Room”
Authors: Salmela Lynn , Woehrle Theo , Marleau Eastan , Kitch Laura
Published: September 2020

Work-related stress is common within the nursing profession, especially in the ED. Studies have shown that interventions to improve hospital working environments positively impact retention and help prevent burnout. This nursing practice innovation project describes the development, implementation, and evaluation of a restorative space (the “Serenity Room”) in a busy regional ED. The evaluation of this project focused on the effectiveness of the room at reducing stress and the value ED staff place on having access to a restorative space. Data were gathered through pre- and postimplementation surveys.
Endoscopic Bilateral Decompression for Cervical Stenosis Caused by Calcification of Ligamentum Flavum Through Unilateral Approach
Authors: Liu Xinchun , Zhu Yue
Published: September 2020

Study Design:

Technical report.

Objective:

The aim was to present a full endoscopic technique for bilateral decompression of cervical stenosis caused by calcification of ligamentum flavum through a unilateral approach.

Summary of Background Data:

The minimally invasive surgical technique aims to preserve muscle and posterior structures to prevent iatrogenic instability and axial pain. Endoscopic resection of calcification of ligamentum flavum in the cervical spine has shown effectiveness. However, the removal of bilateral calcification lesions through a unilateral approach has been reported as an inadequate and technical demanding method.

Methods:

The illustrative case showed myelopathy caused by bilateral calcification of ligamentum flavum in the C5/C6 segment. A spinal multichannel endoscope with a rigid rod-lens was used to the operation under saline media. After a laminotomy was performed on the ipsilateral side, both the ipsilateral and the contralateral calcified lesions were resected through the same bone window.

Results:

The patient’s hand function and walk ability were found significantly improved the next day after surgery. Complete removal of calcified lesions was confirmed by postoperative imaging studies.

Conclusions:

Removal of bilateral calcification lesions in the cervical spine through a unilateral approach is possible with a spinal endoscope.
Efficacy and Safety of 2 Injection Techniques for Hand Biostimulatory Treatment With Diluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Authors: Figueredo Vinícius O. , Miot Hélio A. , Soares Dias Juliana , Nunes Gisele Jacobino de Barros , Barros de Souza Marta , Bagatin Ediléia
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is effective for dorsal hand rejuvenation. Higher dilutions are used for biostimulation with fewer side effects.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2 techniques of diluted CaHA injection for dorsal hand treatment.

METHODS

A prospective, evaluator-blinded study was performed to compare (side-to-side) techniques for treating the dorsum of the hands with diluted CaHA: deep fat lamina or subdermal injection. Fifteen women with aging grades between 1 and 3 on the MHGS (Merz hand grading scale) were enrolled and followed up for 24 weeks. The outcomes were a histological analysis of collagen, skin viscoelasticity, high-frequency ultrasound parameters, MHGS score, and the global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) score.

RESULTS

Improvement in the MHGS and GAIS scores (p < .01) was observed, with no difference between techniques (p > .05). Skin viscoelasticity measures and ultrasonography for dermal parameters improved for both treatments (p < .01). The mean total collagen density increased from the baseline for both techniques (p < .01). Pain during the procedure as well as adverse effects within the follow-up did not differ between treatments (p > .4). The overall satisfaction was 12% greater for the subdermal technique (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

Diluted CaHA improves the skin quality of aging hands with a safe profile, without substantial differences between the techniques.
Insights Into the Pathophysiology of Cellulite: A Review
Authors: Bass Lawrence S. , Kaminer Michael S.
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

The etiology of cellulite is unclear. Treatment of cellulite has targeted adipose tissue, dermis, and fibrous septae with varying degrees of success and durability of response.

OBJECTIVE

Results from clinical trials that target different anatomical aspects of cellulite can provide insights into the underlying pathophysiology of cellulite.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search of the PubMed database and ClinicalTrials.gov website was conducted to identify clinical trials that have investigated treatments for cellulite.

RESULTS

A lack of trial protocol standardization, objective means for quantification of improvement and reported cellulite severity, and short-term follow-up, as well as variation in assessment methods have made comparisons among efficacy studies challenging. However, the lack of durable efficacy and inconsistency seen in clinical results suggest that dermal or adipose tissue changes are not the primary etiologies of cellulite. Clinical studies targeting the collagen-rich fibrous septae in cellulite dimples through mechanical, surgical, or enzymatic approaches suggest that targeting fibrous septae is the strategy most likely to provide durable improvement of skin topography and the appearance of cellulite.

CONCLUSION

The etiology of cellulite has not been completely elucidated. However, there is compelling clinical evidence that fibrous septae play a central role in the pathophysiology of cellulite.
Laser Rejuvenation of Nonfacial Skin: A Review and a Personal Approach
Authors: Ross Edward Victor
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Laser skin rejuvenation historically has emphasized facial photodamage. In this review, we examine energy-based rejuvenation for nonfacial skin.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to summarize past and current energy-based rejuvenation off the face.

RESULTS

Many energy-based interventions can address pigment, tone, and texture irregularities of nonfacial skin.

CONCLUSION

With conservative settings, current devices can be applied safely for nonfacial skin rejuvenation.
RETINAL EMBOLIZATION AFTER CAROTID ECHO DOPPLER: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Marta Ana , Abreu Ana C. , Gonçalves Nadine , Miranda Vasco
Published: September 2020

Purpose:

To report a case of symptomatic multiple retinal emboli during a carotid Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) procedure.

Methods:

Case report documented with clinical records, fundus photography, optical coherence tomography angiography of the retina, and computed tomography angiography of the supraaortic vessels.

Results:

A 60-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with sudden vision loss in the left eye and pain in the left upper eyelid noticed during a CDU procedure. On the left eye, the best-corrected visual acuity was 20/200, and fundus observation revealed retinal arteriolar attenuation, retinal whitening with cherry point, and multiple intraarterial emboli in all arcades of the central retinal artery. Computed tomography angiography of the supraaortic vessels revealed an absence of filling throughout the cervical, petrous, and cavernous segment of the left internal carotid artery, resuming only in the ophthalmic segment and an important stenosis of the left external carotid artery. He had no indication to be submitted to left carotid endarterectomy and began ocular massage and oral anticoagulant. Four months later, ptosis was no longer present, best-corrected visual acuity improved to 20/20 with a residual scotoma, and emboli disappeared on fundus photography.

Conclusion:

Embolic occlusion of retinal arteries may be an extremely rare but serious complication associated with CDU, and patients and clinicians should be aware of it.
PARACENTRAL ACUTE MIDDLE MACULOPATHY ASSOCIATED WITH BRANCH RETINAL ARTERY OCCLUSION DUE TO POLYCYTHEMIA IN A PATIENT WITH TETRALOGY OF FALLOT
Authors: Koçak Nurullah , Erduran Bilgehan , Subaşı Mustafa , Yeter Volkan
Published: September 2020

Purpose:

To describe the occurrence of paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) associated with branch retinal artery occlusion secondary to polycythemia in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 30-year-old man presented with acute vision loss and superior visual deficit in his left eye for two days. His medical record had a tetralogy of Fallot. Complete blood count showed an erythrocyte count of 9.88 million/µL (4.4–5.6), hemoglobin of 17.7 g/dL (13.5–16.9), and hematocrit of 65.4% (40–49). The best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25 in the left eye, and a diagnosis of left inferotemporal branch retinal artery occlusion was made. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography revealed a characteristic hyperreflective band-like lesion on the inner nuclear layer consistent with PAMM.

Conlusion:

Polycythemia may be a trigger for branch retinal artery occlusion–associated PAMM. We suggest a new precursor cause of PAMM that is previously undescribed.
Pain sensitivity and the primary sensorimotor cortices: a multimodal neuroimaging study
Authors: Niddam David M. , Wang Shuu-Jiun , Tsai Shang-Yueh
Published: September 2020

The primary somatosensory cortex (SI) is a critical part of the neural substrate underlying interindividual differences in pain sensitivity. Here, we investigated whether resting-state functional connectivity, gray matter density (GMD), and GABA and Glx (glutamate and glutamine) levels of the sensorimotor cortices were related to pain thresholds and whether such imaging measures could predict high and low pain sensitivity. Functional, structural, and spectroscopic magnetic resonance data were obtained from 48 healthy participants together with pain thresholds of the right index finger. Left and right sensorimotor networks (SMN) were extracted by means of independent component analysis, and GMD was measured within the combined SMN by means of voxel-based morphometry. Spectroscopic data were acquired from the bilateral sensorimotor cortices. Within the left SMN, functional connectivity to the right SI correlated positively with pain thresholds. In addition, GMD in the left SI and the GABA laterality index correlated positively with pain thresholds. A positive correlation was also found between the GABA laterality index and the left SMN connectivity to the right SI. Finally, the above mentioned functional connectivity and GMD measures could correctly predict high and low pain sensitivity in 83.7% of the study population. In summary, we showed that interindividual differences in pain sensitivity were related to the resting-state functional connectivity, interhemispheric GABA tone, and GMD of the sensorimotor cortices. Furthermore, high and low pain sensitivity could be predicted with high accuracy using imaging measures from the primary sensorimotor cortices.
Prolonged opioid use among opioid-naive individuals after prescription for nonspecific low back pain in the emergency department
Authors: Hayden Jill A. , Ellis Jenna , Asbridge Mark , Ogilvie Rachel , Merdad Roah , Grant D. A. Gus , Stewart Samuel A. , Campbell Samuel
Published: September 2020

Low back pain is a leading cause of disability globally. It is a common reason for presentation to the emergency department where opioids are commonly prescribed. This is a retrospective cohort study of opioid-naive adults with low back pain presenting to 1 of 4 emergency departments in Nova Scotia. We use routinely collected administrative clinical and drug-use data (July 2010-November 2017) to investigate the prevalence of prolonged opioid use and associated individual and prescription characteristics. In total, 23,559 eligible individuals presented with nonspecific low back pain, with 84.4% being opioid-naive. Our study population included 4023 opioid-naive individuals who filled a new opioid prescription within 7 days after their index emergency department visit (24.4%). The prevalence of prolonged opioid use after a new opioid prescription for low back pain (filling an opioid prescription 8-90 days after the emergency department visit and filling a subsequent prescription ±30 days of 6 months) was 4.6% (185 individuals). Older age and female sex were associated with clinically important increased odds of prolonged opioid use. First prescription average >90 morphine milligram equivalents/day (odds ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.0-2.6) and greater than 7-day supply (1.9, 1.1-3.1) were associated with prolonged opioid use in adjusted models. We found evidence of declining opioid prescriptions over the study period, but that 24.3% of first opioid prescriptions in 2016 would not have aligned with current guideline recommendations. Our study provides evidence to support a cautious approach to prescribing in opioid-naive populations.
Large-scale functional ultrasound imaging of the spinal cord reveals in-depth spatiotemporal responses of spinal nociceptive circuits in both normal and inflammatory states
Authors: Claron Julien , Hingot Vincent , Rivals Isabelle , Rahal Line , Couture Olivier , Deffieux Thomas , Tanter Mickael , Pezet Sophie
Published: September 2020

Despite a century of research on the physiology/pathophysiology of the spinal cord in chronic pain condition, the properties of the spinal cord were rarely studied at the large-scale level from a neurovascular point of view. This is mostly due to the limited spatial and/or temporal resolution of the available techniques. Functional ultrasound imaging (fUS) is an emerging neuroimaging approach that allows, through the measurement of cerebral blood volume, the study of brain functional connectivity or functional activations with excellent spatial (100 μm) and temporal (1 msec) resolutions and a high sensitivity. The aim of this study was to increase our understanding of the spinal cord physiology through the study of the properties of spinal hemodynamic response to the natural or electrical stimulation of afferent fibers. Using a combination of fUS and ultrasound localization microscopy, the first step of this study was the fine description of the vascular structures in the rat spinal cord. Then, using either natural or electrical stimulations of different categories of afferent fibers (Aβ, Aδ, and C fibers), we could define the characteristics of the typical hemodynamic response of the rat spinal cord experimentally. We showed that the responses are fiber-specific, located ipsilaterally in the dorsal horn, and that they follow the somatotopy of afferent fiber entries in the dorsal horn and that the C-fiber response is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-dependent mechanism. Finally, fUS imaging of the mesoscopic hemodynamic response induced by natural tactile stimulations revealed a potentiated response in inflammatory condition, suggesting an enhanced response to allodynic stimulations.
Bidirectional longitudinal associations between loneliness and pain, and the role of inflammation
Authors: Loeffler Anna , Steptoe Andrew
Published: September 2020

Pain and loneliness are consistently associated, but the direction of the relationship is uncertain. We assessed bidirectional associations over a 4-year period in a sample of 4906 men and women (mean 65.1 ± 8.72 years) who were participants in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. The role of inflammation in these links was also investigated. Pain was defined by reports of being often troubled by pain at a moderate or severe intensity, whereas loneliness was measured using the shortened UCLA scale. Age, sex, ethnicity, educational attainment, wealth as a marker of socioeconomic resources, marital status, physical activity, and depressive symptoms were included as covariates. We found that baseline loneliness was associated with pain 4 years later after adjusting for baseline pain and other covariates (odds ratio [OR] = 1.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06-1.47, P = 0.007). Similarly, baseline pain independently predicted loneliness 4 years later (OR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.14-1.58, P = 0.001). Associations remained significant after additional adjustment for baseline mobility impairment. Likelihood of pain on follow-up was heightened when baseline loneliness was accompanied by elevated C-reactive protein concentration (OR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.13-2.00, P = 0.006), whereas inflammation did not predict future loneliness or contribute to the association between baseline pain and future loneliness. Both pain and loneliness are distressing experiences that impact well-being and quality of life. We conclude that there were bidirectional longitudinal relationships between pain and loneliness in this representative sample of older men and women, but that the mechanisms underlying these processes may differ.
Magnet Ingestions in Children Presenting to Emergency Departments in the United States 2009–2019
Authors: Reeves Patrick T. , Rudolph Bryan , Nylund Cade M.
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

Small rare‐earth magnet (SREM) ingestions are a dangerous, potentially fatal health hazard in children. The U.S. Consumer Safety Commission removed these products from the market in 2012 until a federal court decision vacated this action in 2016. The present study aims to investigate whether the reintroduction of SREMs is associated with an increase in the national frequency of magnet ingestions in children.

Patients and Methods:

Data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) were used to evaluate suspected magnet ingestion (SMI) trends within patients (0–17 years) from 2009 to 2019. SMI cases were stratified (total, small/round, and multiple magnet ingestions) and trend analyses were performed for 2 periods: 2013–2016 (off‐market) and 2017–2019 (on‐market). National SMI estimates calculated using the NEISS‐supplied weights and variance variables.

Results:

An estimated 23,756 children (59% males, 42% < 5 years old) presented with a SMI from 2009 to 2019 with an average annual case increase of 6.1% (P = 0.01). There was a significant increase in both small/round SMI encounters and multiple magnet ingestion encounters from 2009 to 2019 (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively). From 2017 to 2019, there was a greater proportion of small/round type SMIs to total SMIs estimated n = 541 (confidence interval [CI], 261–822) and a greater proportion of multiple magnet ingestions to total SMIs estimated n = 797 (CI, 442–1152) (both, P < 0.01). After 2017, there was a 5‐fold increase in the escalation of care for multiple magnet ingestions (estimated n = 1094; CI 505–1686).

Conclusions:

The significant increase in magnet ingestions by children from 2017 to 2019 indicates that regulatory actions are urgently needed to protect children and reverse these trends.
Efficacy of Rabbit Antithymocyte Globulin as a First-line Therapy in Children With Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Li Fuxing , He Wei , Shi Wei , Xie Xiaotian
Published: September 2020

Background:

The efficacy, safety, and outcome of rabbit antihuman thymocyte globulin (rATG) as initial therapy for children aplastic anemia (AA) were evaluated.

Patients and Methods:

Sixty-one children with AA were retrospectively analyzed, including 43 patients with severe AA and 18 patients with transfusion-dependent nonsevere AA. All patients received rATG in combination with cyclosporine A between September 2005 and January 2015.

Results:

The overall response rates were 55.7%, 68.9%, and 68.9% at 6, 12, and 18 months, respectively. Surprisingly, the overall complete response rate kept increasing from 9.8% at 12 months to 39.3% at 18 months, indicating a delayed response for rATG. Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was 72.1% and 67.2%, respectively. The overall survival of patients who responded between 3 and 12 months was significantly higher than that of nonresponders (71.4% vs. 47.4%).

Antithymocyte globulin-related adverse reactions were significantly higher in severe AA (83.7%) than in nonsevere AA (55.6%) and these reactions were controllable and not life threatening with comprehensive measures.

Conclusions:

This retrospective study shows an encouraging response and survival results in children with AA treated with rATG. Prolonged assessments were needed to evaluate the delayed responses to rATG. rATG could be used as an alternative in the first-line treatment of childhood AA.
Identifying Individuals With Intellectual Disability Within a Population Study
Authors: Franklin Michelle S. , Silva Susan G. , Maslow Gary R. , Halpern Carolyn T. , Merwin Elizabeth I. , Docherty Sharron L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Much remains unknown about the longitudinal health and well-being of individuals with intellectual disability (ID); thus, new methods to identify those with ID within nationally representative population studies are critical for harnessing these data sets to generate new knowledge.

Objective

Our objective was to describe the development of a new method for identifying individuals with ID within large, population-level studies not targeted on ID.

Methods

We used a secondary analysis of the de-identified, restricted-use National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) database representing 20,745 adolescents to develop a method for identifying individuals who meet the criteria of ID. The three criteria of ID (intellectual functioning, adaptive functioning, and disability originating during the developmental period) were derived from the definitions of ID used by the American Psychiatric Association and the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The ID Indicator was developed from the variables indicative of intellectual and adaptive functioning limitations included in the Add Health database from Waves I to III.

Results

This method identified 441 adolescents who met criteria of ID and had sampling weights. At Wave I, the mean age of this subsample of adolescents with ID was 16.1 years. About half of the adolescents were male and from minority racial groups. Their parents were predominately female, were married, had less than a high school education, and had a median age of 41.62 years. The adolescents’ mean maximum abridged Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test standardized score was 69.6, and all demonstrated at least one adaptive functioning limitation.

Discussion

This study demonstrates the development of a data-driven method to identify individuals with ID using commonly available data elements in nationally representative population data sets. By utilizing this method, researchers can leverage existing rich data sets holding potential for answering research questions, guiding policy, and informing interventions to improve the health of the ID population.
Effects of Prism Adaptation for Unilateral Spatial Neglect After Stroke
Authors: Li Jing , Li Lei , Yang Yan , Chen Shuang
Published: September 2020

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess effects of prism adaptation on unilateral spatial neglect poststroke.

Methods

Searching databases and referring to randomized controlled trial until December 30, 2019. There were two reviewers who searched some key words such as unilateral spatial neglect and prism adaptation, and only randomized controlled trial was included. There were two evaluators who screened literature and data regarding research design, treatment plan, etc. Assessment tool recommended in Cochrane Reviewers’ Handbook 5.1.0 was adopted to assess the risks of bias of randomized controlled trial, and Revman 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. Mean differences and 95% of confidence intervals were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed through I
2 statistics.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials were included, involving 244 patients of which 130 in experimental group and 114 in control group. According to meta-analysis results, prism adaptation group scored significantly higher than control group in improving Behavioral Inattention Test (mean difference = 8.99, 95% confidence interval = 0.93 to 17.06, P = 0.03) and Star Cancellation Test (mean difference = 3.04, 95% confidence interval = 0.19 to 5.88, P = 0.04). However, there was no significant statistical difference in Catherine Bergego Scale between groups (mean difference = −0.30, 95% confidence interval = −1.83 to 1.23, P = 0.70). The long-term follow-up visits (over 1 mo) appeared no statistical difference in Behavioral Inattention Test scores between the patients of two groups (mean difference = 8.93, 95% confidence interval = −1.98 to 19.84, P = 0.1).

Conclusions

Prism adaptation can improve neglect symptoms of patients with unilateral spatial neglect after stroke temporarily.
Open- and Closed-Label Placebo and Nocebo Suggestions About a Sham Transdermal Patch
Authors: Meeuwis Stefanie H. , van Middendorp Henriët , Lavrijsen Adriana P. M. , Veldhuijzen Dieuwke S. , Evers Andrea W. M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Placebo effects may occur when it is known that an inert substance is given (i.e., open-label placebo). It is not yet clear whether these effects are similar to concealed (i.e., closed-label) placebo effects for itch or whether nocebo effects can be induced under open-label conditions.

Methods

Healthy volunteers (n = 112) were randomized to an open-label (I) or closed-label (II) positive suggestions group, or an open-label (III) or closed-label (IV) negative suggestions group. Participants were told, as cover story, that a transdermal caffeine patch would be applied that positively influences cognitive abilities and, as a side effect, positively or negatively (depending on group allocation) influences itch. Participants in the open-label groups were given a rationale explaining placebo and nocebo effect mechanisms. Itch (the primary outcome) was induced at baseline and postsuggestions by histamine iontophoresis.

Results

Analyses of variance revealed significantly lower itch in the positive compared with the negative suggestions groups for both open- and closed-label contexts (all, p ≤ .008, Cohen d ≥ 0.47). Self-rated skin response was less severe after positive versus negative suggestions (all, p ≤ .017, Cohen d ≥ 0.33), but no effects on physical skin response were found (all, p ≥ .23, Cohen d ≤ 0.30).

Conclusions

Itch can be reduced by positive compared with negative suggestions under both open- and closed-label conditions. These findings indicate that open-label suggestions may potentially be a tool to use placebo effects for self-reported outcomes in clinical practice, for example, by explaining the role of expectancy in treatment. It needs to be investigated further under which circumstances an open-label rationale may impact placebo and nocebo effects.

Trial Registration:
www.trialregister.nl; NTR7174
Secondary Coronal Synostosis After Early Surgery for Sagittal Craniosynostosis: Implications for Cranial Growth
Authors: Unander-Scharin Jesper , Nysjö Johan , Enblad Per , Nowinski Daniel
Published: September 2020

Secondary Coronal Synostosis (SCS) in patients operated for non-syndromic Sagittal Craniosynostosis is a postoperative phenomenon with unclear implications. The aim of this study was to investigate whether SCS is a negative or a benign occurrence in the postoperative course. The authors hypothesized that SCS is related to reduced cranial growth and intracranial hypertension. Thirty-one patients operated for SC at an early age with the H-craniectomy technique were included in the study. Associations between SCS and cranial shape, growth, and signs of intracranial hypertension were analyzed. Intracranial volume distribution was assessed by measuring partial intracranial volumes defined by skull base landmarks. A total of 12/31 patients developed SCS during the postoperative course. The presence of SCS was associated with a higher prevalence of gyral impressions and a larger normalization of Cranial Index due to less growth in the anteroposterior plane. The SCS group had a smaller postoperative intracranial volume due to less posterior intracranial volume as well as less growth in head circumference. Whether this is a growth restriction caused by the SCS or a secondary effect of less primary brain growth remains to be determined. However, the correlation between SCS, less cranial growth and gyral impressions does imply that SCS should be taken into consideration during clinical follow-up as a potentially adverse event.
Comprehensive Treatment and Vascular Architecture Characteristic of High-Flow Vascular Malformations in Periorbital Regions
Authors: Yang Peng , Ren Jian , Yu Jia-Xing , Zhai Xiao-Dong , Hu Peng , Hong Tao , Zhang Hong-Qi
Published: September 2020

Objective:

This study analyzed the vascular architecture characteristics of high-flow vascular malformations (VMs) in periorbital regions, as well as the treatment and imaging prognosis of occlusion degree of the outflow veins.

Method:

The clinical data of 24 patients with high-flow VMs in periorbital regions treated in our center from 2012 to 2019 were analyzed retrospectively, and the vascular architecture characteristics, treatment methods, and follow-up results were recorded.

Results:

The vascular architecture of high-flow VMs in periorbital regions which usually contained the intracranial feeding arteries (24/24,100.0%) and intracranial outflow veins (18/24, 75.0%). The average age of first diagnosis was 23 ± 16 years; the average age of treatment was 37 ± 10 years; the median follow-up time was 42.5 months. Twenty-four patients with high-flow VMs in periorbital regions had 58 treatments in all. The imaging cure was achieved in 6 patients by complete occlusion of outflow veins, and no recurrence was found by DSA. Eighteen patients who get incomplete occlusion of outflow veins were given 49 treatments, and 8 patients had imaging recurrence. Seven patients (7/24, 29.2%) had treatment-related complications in all.

Conclusions:

Patients with high-flow VMs in periorbital regions are the most complex cases. The prognosis of patients whose outflow veins can be completely occluded is relatively good. The stepwise embolization while preserving organ function is advisable. Nevertheless, the incidence of treatment complications is still high.
Treatment of Osteomyelitic Bone Following Cranial Vault Reconstruction With Delayed Reimplantation of Sterilized Autologous Bone: A Novel Technique for Cranial Reconstruction in the Pediatric Patient
Authors: Vingan Perri , Halsey Jordan N. , Gagliardo Christina , Battiato Jennifer A. , Fried Arno , Ciminello Frank S.
Published: September 2020

Craniosynostosis, a deformity of the skull caused by premature fusion of ≥1 cranial sutures, is treated surgically via endoscopic approaches or cranial vault remodeling. Postoperative infection is rare. Management of postoperative surgical site infections often involves culture-directed intravenous antibiotics and debridement, with removal of osteomyelitic bone and hardware in refractory cases. Removal of autologous bone in a pediatric patient presents a reconstructive challenge, as alloplastic options are not optimal in a growing child, especially in the setting of infection. Moreover, infants and small children have limited autologous bone options for reconstruction. We present our case of a young child who developed an infectious complication following cranial vault remodeling. The patient's demographic information, clinical presentation and postoperative course, radiologic features, surgical interventions, and treatment outcomes were reviewed. In our case, autologous osteomyelitic bone underwent tissue processing to eradicate the infection and complete skull reconstruction using the patient's own processed autologous bone was performed in a delayed fashion. The patient is now 1 year postoperative with no recurrence of infection. We present this case as a novel technique to eradicate infection in autologous bone, allowing for delayed autologous cranial reconstruction.
Dual Purpose of De-Epithelialized Latissimus Dorsi Musculocutaneous Flap for Treatment of Chronic Frontal Sinusitis and Frontal Bone Defect
Authors: Shimbo Keisuke , Okuhara Yukako , Yokota Kazunori
Published: September 2020

Treating frontal sinusitis refractory to endoscopic sinus surgery and complicating frontal bone defect remains a challenge. One surgical option determined is free flap transfer, which has the versatility to accommodate adequate sinus obliteration and reconstruct skin and bone defects. After successful free flap transfer, forehead recessus deformity can emerge as an esthetic problem for patients waiting for cranioplasty. Hence, the authors examine three cases in which they performed free latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous (LDM) flaps for chronic frontal sinusitis with frontal bone defect. All LDM flaps survived without complications, and all patients achieved passable forehead contours without cranioplasty and with no occurrence of infection. In our procedure, the muscle portion of the LDM flap was used to obliterate the frontal sinus, which is similar to conventional free LDM flap. Conversely, our procedure also uses the de-epithelialized skin paddle of the LDM flap filled with the frontal bone defect, which is distinct from conventional free LDM flap. Thus, preventing postoperative forehead recessus deformity has been the identified as primary advantage of our procedure. The use of the free de-epithelialized LDM flap transfer fulfills two goals: controlling chronic frontal sinusitis and restoring a passable forehead contour.
Milk and Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Authors: Minieri Sara , Sofi Francesco , Mannelli Federica , Messini Anna , Piras Silvia , Buccioni Arianna
Published: September 2020

Dairy products and milk play an important role in a healthy diet as they contribute to the intake of essential nutrients, high-quality proteins, and fats. Despite the large number of existing studies on the possible association between dairy products and chronic degenerative diseases, studies examining the effects of dairy products and milk on the risk of common causes of mortality such as cardiovascular and neoplastic diseases are scarce and conflicting. Some studies have reported an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases for individuals who consume large amounts of cheese, whereas others have shown no relationship between these products and atherosclerotic biomarkers.
High Prepregnancy Body Mass Index and Excessive Gestational Weight Gain as Obesity-Related Risk Factors of Preeclampsia
Authors: Ermamilia Aviria , Yonika Lindi , Aulia Bianda , Ganap Eugenius Phyowai
Published: September 2020

A hospital-based case-control study was conducted to investigate the association of prepregnancy body mass index (PPBMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) with preeclampsia. Individuals with a high PPBMI (body mass index ≥23.0 kg/m2) and an excessive GWG had a 3.28-fold (95% confidence interval: 1.04–10.4) and 3.79-fold (95% confidence interval: 1.05–13.61) increased risk of preeclampsia, respectively, after adjustment for age, hypertension history, and GWG/PPBMI.
Research Involvement of Alumni From a Combined Dietetic Internship/Master's Degree Program With a Research Concentration
Authors: Hand Rosa K. , Sears Ellen , Harris Stephanie R.
Published: September 2020

The success of dietetics education programs that provide a research focus at promoting research involvement among graduates is unknown. Using a cross-sectional online survey and 3 validated tools, we described research motivation, involvement, and confidence in graduates of a combined dietetic internship/master's program with a research concentration. Of 35 participants, 48.6% reported current/recent involvement in at least one research activity; 25.7% had research in their job description. Participants were similarly involved in research as registered dietitian nutritionists in other studies; involvement was greater in alumni with a research job. Future research should determine what influences alumni to obtain a research job.
The Efficacy of Lasmiditan for the Treatment of Migraine: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies
Authors: Zhu Hui , Tang Yongguo , Zhou Ting , Song Jing
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The efficacy of lasmiditan is used to alleviate migraine. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the influence of lasmiditan versus placebo on pain control in patients with migraine.

Methods

We search the PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases through June 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of lasmiditan versus placebo on pain control in patients with migraine. This meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model.

Results

Four randomized controlled trials are included in the meta-analysis. Overall, compared with the control group, in patients with migraine, lasmiditan treatment shows positive impact on pain free at 2 hours [risk ratio (RR), 1.74; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.47–2.07; P < 0.00001], headache response at 2 hours (RR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.28–1.49; P < 0.00001), pain free at 24 hours (RR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.16–2.07; P = 0.003), and no or mild disability level (RR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.11–1.29; P < 0.00001), but has no obvious influence on nausea (RR, 2.22; 95% CI, 0.92–5.35; P = 0.08). In addition, lasmiditan seems to result in the increase in dizziness (RR, 6.36; 95% CI, 3.00–13.46; P < 0.0001) and paresthesia (RR, 5.10; 95% CI, 2.66–9.78; P < 0.00001).

Conclusions

Lasmiditan treatment provides additional benefits for pain control in patients with migraine.
Transcriptome analysis identified long non-coding RNAs involved in the adaption of yak to high-altitude environments
Authors: Xin Jin-Wei , Chai Zhi-Xin , Zhang Cheng-Fu , Yang Yu-Mei , Zhang Qiang , Zhu Yong , Cao Han-Wen , Yang Ji Cidan , Zhong Jin-Cheng , Ji Qiu-Mei
Published: September 2020

The mechanisms underlying yak adaptation to high-altitude environments have been investigated using various methods, but no report has focused on long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). In the present study, lncRNAs were screened from the gluteus transcriptomes of yak and their transcriptional levels were compared with those in Sanjiang cattle, Holstein cattle and Tibetan cattle. The potential target genes of the differentially expressed lncRNAs between species/strains were predicted using
cis
and
trans
models. Based on
cis
-regulated target genes, no KEGG pathway was significantly enriched. Based on
trans
-regulated target genes, 11 KEGG pathways in relation to energy metabolism and three KEGG pathways associated with muscle contraction were significantly enriched. Compared with cattle strains, transcriptional levels of acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, acyl-CoA-binding protein, 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase were relatively higher and those of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate mutase 1, pyruvate kinase and lactate/malate dehydrogenase were relatively lower in yak, suggesting that yaks activated fatty acid oxidation but inhibited glucose oxidation and glycolysis. Besides, NADH dehydrogenase and ATP synthase showed lower transcriptional levels in yak than in cattle, which might protect muscle tissues from deterioration caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Compared with cattle strains, the higher transcriptional level of glyoxalase in yak might contribute to dicarbonyl stress resistance. Voltage-dependent calcium channel/calcium release channel showed a lower level in yak than in cattle strains, which could reduce the Ca
2+
influx and subsequently decrease the risk of hypertension. However, levels of EF-hand and myosin were higher in yak than in cattle strains, which might enhance the negative effects of reduced Ca
2+
on muscle contraction. Overall, the present study identified lncRNAs and proposed their potential regulatory functions in yak.