bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of myocardial injury and inflammation after pulmonary vein isolation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation between radiofrequency catheter ablation and cryoballoon ablation
Authors: Yano Masamichi , Egami Yasuyuki , Yanagawa Kyosuke , Nakamura Hitoshi , Matsuhiro Yutaka , Yasumoto Koji , Tsuda Masaki , Okamoto Naotaka , Tanaka Akihiro , Matsunaga‐Lee Yasuharu , Yamato Masaki , Shutta Ryu , Nishino Masami , Tanouchi Jun
Published: April 2020

Backgrounds

Several studies have shown the serum high sensitive cardiac troponin I (hs‐TnI) a biomarker of myocardium injury, and C‐reactive protein (CRP), a biomarker of inflammation, are associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes. We evaluated the relationship between the hs‐TnI level in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence.

Methods and Results

We enrolled 263 consecutive PAF patients who underwent PVI from May 2017 to April 2018. We investigated the difference in the relationship between the myocardial injury marker (serum hs‐TnI), inflammatory marker (CRP, white blood cell) at 36 to 48 hours after the PVI, and early or late recurrence of AF (ERAF; <3 months and LRAF; from 3 months to 1 year) between the radiofrequency ablation group (R group) and cryoballoon ablation group (C group). The R group consisted of 147 patients and the C groups consisted of 116 patients. The serum hs‐TnI level in R group was significantly lower than in the C group (2.33 vs 5.08 ng/mL; P < .001), while the CRP was significantly higher in the R group than C group (2.02 vs 1.10 mg/dL; P < .001). The incidences of an ERAF/LRAF were similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

Cryoballoon ablation may cause more myocardial injury than radiofrequency catheter ablation, on the contrary, radiofrequency catheter ablation, may cause more inflammation than cryoballoon ablation. However, these phenomena may not affect the recurrence of AF after the PVI in patient with PAF.
Use of a multi‐electrode radiofrequency balloon catheter to achieve pulmonary vein isolation in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: 12‐Month outcomes of the RADIANCE study
Authors: Dhillon Gurpreet Singh , Honarbakhsh Shohreh , Di Monaco Antonio , Coling Ann Elizabeth , Lenka Kernerová , Pizzamiglio Francesca , Hunter Ross J. , Horton Rodney , Mansour Moussa , Natale Andrea , Reddy Vivek , Grimaldi Massimo , Neuzil Petr , Tondo Claudio , Schilling Richard J.
Published: April 2020

Background

The RADIANCE first‐in‐man study evaluated acute (3‐month) safety and design concept in terms of utility of a new multi‐electrode radiofrequency (RF) balloon catheter (HELIOSTAR, Biosense Webster) to achieve pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). After study conclusion, a subset of patients was followed up to 12 months.

Methods

Patients with drug refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation were enrolled. Neurological assessment, cardiac and cerebral magnetic resonance imagings were performed pre and post procedure. Ablation was delivered at 15 Watts to each PV for 60 seconds (electrodes adjacent to the posterior wall limited to 20 seconds). Adenosine or isoproterenol was administered to confirm PVI. Esophageal endoscopy was performed 48 hours post procedure. Patients were clinically followed up for 12 months.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients underwent catheter ablation from four centers. Mean age was 60.7 ± 10.0 years with 23 (57.5%) being male. Confirmation of PVI was performed in all PVs treated (152/152). Confirmation of isolation after one delivery was performed solely on 137 of 152 PVs of which 79.6% (109/137) achieved isolation with a single delivery of RF energy. Acute PV reconnection was seen in 4.6% (7/150) of PVs. Freedom from documented atrial arrhythmia at 12 months in those followed up was 86.4% (32/37). A total of 75.7% (28/37) of patients were free from atrial arrhythmia and off antiarrhythmic medications.

Conclusion

The HELIOSTAR RF balloon catheter allows for rapid and safe PVI with majority of PVs only requiring one application.
Electrical isolation of the superior vena cava using second‐generation cryoballoon in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Wei Hui‐Qiang , Guo Xiao‐Gang , Sun Qi , Yang Jian‐Du , Xie Hai‐Yang , Cao Zhong‐Jing , Chen Yan‐Qiao , Zhang Shu , Wu Shulin , Ma Jian
Published: April 2020

Background

The safety and efficacy of superior vena cava (SVC) isolation using second‐generation cryoballoon (CB) ablation remain unknown.

Methods

A total of 26 (3.2%) patients with SVC‐related paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) from a consecutive series of 806 patients who underwent second‐generation CB were included. Pulmonary vein isolation was initially achieved by CB ablation. If the SVC trigger was determined, the electrical isolation of SVC isolation was performed using the second‐generation CB.

Results

Real‐time SVC potential was observed in all patients. Isolation of the SVC was successfully accomplished in 21 (80.8%) patients. The mean number of freeze cycles in each patient was 2.1 ± 1.1. The mean time to isolation and ablation duration were 22.5 ± 14.2 seconds and 94.5 ± 22.3 seconds, respectively. A transient phrenic nerve (PN) injury was observed in five patients (19.2%). There were two patients (7.7%) experienced reversible sinus node injury during the first application. During a mean follow‐up period of 13.2 ± 5.8 months, four patients (15.4%) had atrial arrhythmia recurrences.

Conclusion

Isolation of SVC using the second‐generation 28‐mm CB is feasible when SVC driver during AF is identified. Vigilant monitoring of PN function during CB ablation of SVC is needed to avoid PN injury.
Is Pyemotes zhonghuajia (Acari: Pyemotidae) a suitable biological control agent against the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)?

Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Tian Tai-An , Li Xue-Lin , Chen Yi-Chai , Yu Xiao-Fei , Tan Xiao-Feng , Zhu Yi , Yang Mao-Fa
Published: April 2020

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is one of the most damaging noctuid pests of maize and is reported in China at the beginning of 2019. It poses a serious threat to the food security of China. In order to find an attractive alternative to reduce the application of chemical insecticides, we screened different initial mite densities of Pyemotes zhonghuajia on the mortality rate of different stages of FAW and also recorded the number of P. zhonghuajia on FAW at the different times (24, 48, and 72 h). The results showed that initial mite densities had a significant effect on the mortality rates of all stages of FAW and the number of P. zhonghuajia found on the surface of FAW. One P. zhonghuajia female was able to significantly induce the mortality of FAW in the 1st to 3rd instar larvae, and the mite density of 40 could achieve 100% FAW mortality when added 1st to 5th instar larvae and prepupae. There was an increasing number of P. zhonghuajia on FAW from the 2nd to 4th instar larvae stages at all three days. These results provide the basic information for considering P. zhonghuajia as a suitable bio-control agent against FAW in China.
Structural analysis of organic ultrathin-layer by using Ar-gas-cluster ion beam sputter collecting method
Authors: Noda Hiroyuki , Sasaki Yoshiteru , Murai Daigo , Hachiya Masaki
Published: April 2020

Ar-gas-cluster ion beam (GCIB) sputter collecting method was developed and applied for multiple organic analysis methods of a polymer thin layer. By using this method, a polyvinylpyrrolidone thin layer (50 nm thick) on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate film could be selectively collected and analyzed by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Furthermore, it was also applied to molecular weight distribution analyses of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) thin layers (50 nm thick) by matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry, and this revealed that the molecular weight of the collected PMMA polymer was slightly lower and showed a tendency that lowering of the molecular weight of collected PMMA decreased with an increase in the GCIB acceleration voltage. This phenomenon proposed that there were differences in damages between the first and second bombardments of Ar-GCIB sputtering processes, and the second bombardment area could be relatively larger than a low voltage, showing that the damage of the collected polymer was relatively less in high acceleration voltage of the GCIB.
Probing Rényi entanglement entropy via randomized measurements
Authors: Brydges Tiff , Elben Andreas , Jurcevic Petar , Vermersch Benoît , Maier Christine , Lanyon Ben P. , Zoller Peter , Blatt Rainer , Roos Christian F.
Published: April 2020

An entropic look into entanglement

Quantum systems are predicted to be better at information processing than their classical counterparts, and quantum entanglement is key to this superior performance. But how does one gauge the degree of entanglement in a system? Brydges
et al.
monitored the build-up of the so-called Rényi entropy in a chain of up to 10 trapped calcium ions, each of which encoded a qubit. As the system evolved, interactions caused entanglement between the chain and the rest of the system to grow, which was reflected in the growth of the Rényi entropy.

Science
, this issue p.
260
MgrB Inactivation Is Responsible for Acquired Resistance to Colistin in Enterobacter hormaechei subsp.
steigerwaltii
Authors: Mhaya Amel , Bégu Dominique , Tounsi Slim , Arpin Corinne
Published: April 2020

Multidrug-resistant strains belonging to the
Enterobacter cloacae
complex (ECC) group, and especially those belonging to clusters C-III, C-IV, and C-VIII, have increasingly emerged as a leading cause of health care-associated infections, with colistin used as one of the last lines of treatment. However, colistin-resistant ECC strains have emerged. The aim of this study was to prove that MgrB, the negative regulator of the PhoP/PhoQ two-component regulatory system, is involved in colistin resistance in ECC of cluster C-VIII, formerly referred to as
Enterobacter hormaechei
subsp.
Evaluation and Optimization of the Clinical Accuracy of Hybribio's 14 High-Risk HPV with 16/18 Genotyping Assay within the VALGENT-3 Framework
Authors: Xu Lan , Oštrbenk Valenčak Anja , Poljak Mario , Arbyn Marc
Published: April 2020

Hybribio’s 14 High-Risk HPV with 16/18 genotyping real-time PCR (HBRT-H14) is a human papillomavirus (HPV) assay with approval from the China Food and Drug Administration that is widely used in China. VALGENT (VALidation of HPV GENotyping Tests) is an established framework for evaluating HPV tests’ clinical performance relative to validated comparators. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical accuracy of HBRT-H14 following international validation criteria. Within VALGENT-3, clinical performance of HBRT-H14 was compared with Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2), Linear Array HPV genotyping test (Linear Array), and Cobas 4800 HPV test (Cobas).
Compartmentalization and Clonal Amplification of HIV-1 in the Male Genital Tract Characterized Using Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Kariuki Samuel Mundia , Selhorst Philippe , Anthony Colin , Matten David , Abrahams Melissa-Rose , Martin Darren P. , Ariën Kevin K. , Rebe Kevin , Williamson Carolyn , Dorfman Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2020

Within an individual living with HIV-1, factors that restrict the movement of HIV-1 between different compartments—such as between the blood and the male genital tract—could strongly influence which viruses reach sites in the body from which they can be transmitted. Using deep sequencing, we found strong evidence of restricted HIV-1 movements between the blood and genital tract in all 10 men that we studied. We additionally found that neither the degree to which particular genetic variants of HIV-1 proliferate (in blood or genital tract) nor an individual’s history of sexually transmitted infections detectably influenced the degree to which virus movements were restricted between the blood and genital tract. Last, we show evidence that viral replication gave rise to a large clonal amplification in semen in a donor with highly compartmentalized HIV-1 populations, raising the possibility that differential selection of HIV-1 variants in the genital tract may occur.
Nonproteolytic K29-Linked Ubiquitination of the PB2 Replication Protein of Influenza A Viruses by Proviral Cullin 4-Based E3 Ligases
Authors: Karim Marwah , Biquand Elise , Declercq Marion , Jacob Yves , van der Werf Sylvie , Demeret Caroline
Published: April 2020

Successful infection by influenza A virus, a pathogen of major public health importance, involves fine regulation of the multiple functions of the viral proteins, which often relies on post-translational modifications (PTMs). The PB2 protein of influenza A viruses is essential for viral replication and a key determinant of host range. While PTMs of PB2 inducing its degradation have been identified, here we show that PB2 undergoes a regulating PTM signaling detected during infection, based on an atypical K29-linked ubiquitination and mediated by two multicomponent E3 ubiquitin ligases. Recombinant viruses impaired for CRL4-mediated ubiquitination are attenuated, indicating that ubiquitination of PB2 is necessary for an optimal influenza A virus infection. The CRL4 E3 ligases are required for normal viral cycle progression and for maximal virion production. Consequently, they represent potential candidate host factors for antiviral targets.
A Chimeric Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Protects against Lethal Yellow Fever Virus Infection without Inducing Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Mishra Niraj , Boudewijns Robbert , Schmid Michael Alexander , Marques Rafael Elias , Sharma Sapna , Neyts Johan , Dallmeier Kai
Published: April 2020

Efficient and safe vaccines against yellow fever (e.g., YFV-17D) that provide long-lasting protection by rapidly inducing neutralizing antibody responses exist. However, the vaccine supply cannot cope with an increasing demand posed by urban outbreaks in recent years. Here we report that JE-CVax/Imojev, a YFV-17D-based chimeric Japanese encephalitis vaccine, also efficiently protects against YFV infection in mice. In case of shortage of the YFV vaccine during yellow fever outbreaks, (off-label) use of JE-CVax/Imojev may be considered. Moreover, wider use of JE-CVax/Imojev in Asia may lower the risk of the much-feared YFV spillover to the continent. More generally, chimeric vaccines that combine surface antigens and replication machineries of two distinct flaviviruses may be considered dual vaccines for the latter pathogen without induction of surface-specific antibodies. Following this rationale, novel flavivirus vaccines that do not hold a risk for antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) of infection (inherent to current dengue vaccines and dengue vaccine candidates) could be designed.
CLABSI reduction using evidence based interventions and nurse empowerment: a quality improvement initiative from a tertiary care NICU in Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Ali Shabbir , Ahmed Anjum Mohyuddin , Arbab Saba , Ariff Shabina , Ali Rehan , Demas Simon , Zeb Jehan , Rizvi Arjumand , Saleem Ali , Farooqi Joveria
Published: April 2020

Objective

Central line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We designed a CLABSI Prevention Package (CPP) to decrease NICU CLABSI rates, using evidence-proven interventions.

Design

This was a quality improvement (QI) project. Data collection was divided into three phases (pre-implementation, implementation and post implementation). SQUIRE2.0 guidelines were used to design, implement and report this QI initiative.

Setting

A tertiary care level 3 NICU at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi, Pakistan.

Patients

All patients admitted to the AKUH NICU from 1 January 2016 to 31 March 2018 who had a central line in place during their NICU admission.

Interventions

CPP used evidence-based interventions focusing on hand hygiene, aseptic central line insertion techniques and central line care, prevention of fungal infections and nurse empowerment.

Main outcome measures

CLABSI rates pre and post intervention were recorded. Secondary outcomes were risk factors for CLABSI, device (central line) utilisation ratio, CLABSI related mortality and micro-organism profile.

Results

CLABSI rates decreased from 17.1/1000 device days to 5.0/1000 device days (relative risk (RR)=0.36, CI=0.17–0.74). Device (central line) utilisation ratio declined from 0.30 to 0.25. Out of 613 patients enrolled in our study, 139 (22.7%) died. Mortality was higher in CLABSI group (n=20, 44%) as compared with non CLABSI group (n=119, 21.1%) (p<0.001). Gestational age of <27 weeks was an independent risk factor for CLABSI (RR=4.45, CI=1.10–18.25, p=0.03). A total of 158 pathogens were isolated among which 68 were associated with CLABSI. Gram-negative bacteria 31 (47.7%) were the most common cause of CLABSI. Ninety-seven (61%) micro-organisms were multi-drug resistant.

Conclusions

CPP was effective in decreasing NICU CLABSI rates and can be used as a model to decrease NICU CLABSI rates in low or middle-income countries.
Advance euthanasia directives and the Dutch prosecution
Authors: Hughes Jonathan A
Published: April 2020

In a recent Dutch euthanasia case, a woman underwent euthanasia on the basis of an advance directive, having first been sedated without her knowledge and then restrained by members of her family while the euthanasia was administered. This article considers some implications of the criminal court’s acquittal of the doctor who performed the euthanasia. Supporters of advance euthanasia directives have welcomed the judgement as providing a clarification of the law, especially with regard to the admissibility of contextual evidence in interpreting advance euthanasia directives, but suggested that the law regarding advance euthanasia directives should be further relaxed to remove the requirement of current suffering and that an unfortunate consequence of the prosecution is that it is likely to deter doctors from performing euthanasia even in more straightforward cases. This article argues that the court’s endorsement of the use of contextual evidence is problematic, that the case for prioritising prior decisions over current interests has not been advanced by the discussion surrounding this case and that worries about the alleged deterrent effect are not well founded.
Parental responsibilities and moral status
Authors: Blackshaw Bruce Philip , Rodger Daniel
Published: April 2020

Prabhpal Singh has recently defended a relational account of the difference in moral status between fetuses and newborns as a way of explaining why abortion is permissible and infanticide is not. He claims that only a newborn can stand in a parent–child relation, not a fetus, and this relation has a moral dimension that bestows moral value. We challenge Singh’s reasoning, arguing that the case he presents is unconvincing. We suggest that the parent–child relation is better understood as an extension of an existing relationship formed during the gestational period. The change in this relation at birth is not sufficient to justify the radical change in moral status required to rule out infanticide while accepting the permissibility of abortion. Given that the moral status of orphans is also problematic under Singh’s account, we conclude that Singh has not shown that a newborn has greater moral worth than a fetus.
Metformin arrests the progression of established kidney disease in the subtotal nephrectomy model of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Borges Cynthia M. , Fujihara Clarice Kazue , Malheiros Denise M. A. C. , de Ávila Victor Ferreira , Formigari Guilherme Pedrom , Lopes de Faria José B.
Published: April 2020

Metformin, an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, has been shown in previous studies to reduce kidney fibrosis in different models of experimental chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, in all of these studies, the administration of metformin was initiated before the establishment of renal disease, which is a condition that does not typically occur in clinical settings. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the administration of metformin could arrest the progression of established renal disease in a well-recognized model of CKD, the subtotal kidney nephrectomy (Nx) model. Adult male Munich-Wistar rats underwent either Nx or sham operations. After the surgery (30 days), Nx rats that had systolic blood pressures of >170 mmHg and albuminuria levels of >40 mg/24 h were randomized to a no-treatment condition or to a treatment condition with metformin (300 mg·kg−1·day−1) for a period of either 60 or 120 days. After 60 days of treatment, we did not observe any differences in kidney disease parameters between Nx metformin-treated and untreated rats. However, after 120 days, Nx rats that had been treated with metformin displayed significant reductions in albuminuria levels and in markers of renal fibrosis. These effects were independent of any other effects on blood pressure or glycemia. In addition, treatment with metformin was also able to activate kidney AMPK and therefore improve mitochondrial biogenesis. It was concluded that metformin can arrest the progression of established kidney disease in the Nx model, likely via the activation of AMPK.
Cutaneous Vasculitis and Central Nervous System Infarctions due to Varicella Zoster Virus Vasculopathy in an Immunocompromised Patient
Authors: Flores Rosario Karen , Michelis Katherine C. , Bjorkman Carol , Araj Faris G.
Published: April 2020

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection commonly presents as varicella during childhood, and zoster, later in life. Here, we present a rare and interesting case of VZV infection that manifested with both cerebral and spinal infarctions and cutaneous vasculitis in the absence of a classic vesicular rash in an immunocompromised patient.
Nadir Aldosterone Levels After Confirmatory Tests Are Correlated With Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Ohno Youichi , Sone Masakatsu , Inagaki Nobuya , Kawashima Akiyuki , Takeda Yoshiyu , Yoneda Takashi , Kurihara Isao , Itoh Hiroshi , Tsuiki Mika , Ichijo Takamasa , Katabami Takuyuki , Wada Norio , Sakamoto Ryuichi , Ogawa Yoshihiro , Yoshimoto Takanobu , Yamada Tetsuya , Kawashima Junji , Matsuda Yuichi , Kobayashi Hiroki , Kamemura Kohei , Yamamoto Koichi , Otsuki Michio , Okamura Shintaro , Izawa Shoichiro , Okamoto Ryuji , Tamura Kouichi , Tanabe Akiyo , Naruse Mitsuhide ,   JPAS/JRAS Study Group
Published: April 2020

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is often seen in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA), and the prevalence of LVH is reportedly higher among patients with PA than patients with essential hypertension. However, the correlation between aldosterone levels and LVH is undefined, and how aldosterone affects LVH in patients with PA remains unclear. We, therefore, retrospectively assessed a large PA database established by the multicenter JPAS (Japan Primary Aldosteronism Study) to reveal the factors associated with LVH in patients with PA without suspected autonomous cortisol secretion. In the 1186 patients with PA studied, the basal plasma aldosterone concentration, plasma renin activity, and the aldosterone-to-renin ratio did not significantly correlate with left ventricular LV mass index (LVMI) in single or multiple regression analyses. However, the plasma aldosterone concentration after the captopril challenge test or saline-infusion test, which are associated with autonomous aldosterone secretion, correlated significantly with LVMI, even after adjusting for patients’ backgrounds, including age and blood pressure. In addition, hypokalemia and the unilateral subtype also correlated with LVMI. Longitudinal subanalysis of medically or surgically treated patients with PA showed significant reductions in LVMI in both the surgery (63.0±18.1 to 55.3±19.5 g/m
2.7
,
P
<0.001) and drug treatment (56.8±14.1 to 52.1±13.5 g/m
2.7
,
P
<0.001) groups. Our results suggest the autonomous aldosterone secretion level, not the basal aldosterone level itself, is relevant to LVH in patients with PA. In addition, the elevated LVMI seen in patients with PA is at least partially reversible with surgical or medical treatment.
Pronounced Impact of Salinity on Rapidly Intensifying Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Balaguru Karthik , Foltz Gregory R. , Leung L. Ruby , Kaplan John , Xu Wenwei , Reul Nicolas , Chapron Bertrand
Published: April 2020

Tropical cyclone (TC) rapid intensification (RI) is difficult to predict and poses a formidable threat to coastal populations. A warm upper ocean is well known to favor RI, but the role of ocean salinity is less clear. This study shows a strong inverse relationship between salinity and TC RI in the eastern Caribbean and western tropical Atlantic due to near-surface freshening from the Amazon–Orinoco River system. In this region, rapidly intensifying TCs induce a much stronger surface enthalpy flux compared to more weakly intensifying storms, in part due to a reduction in SST cooling caused by salinity stratification. This reduction has a noticeable positive impact on TCs undergoing RI, but the impact of salinity on more weakly intensifying storms is insignificant. These statistical results are confirmed through experiments with an ocean mixed layer model, which show that the salinity-induced reduction in SST cold wakes increases significantly as the storm’s intensification rate increases. Currently, operational statistical–dynamical RI models do not use salinity as a predictor. Through experiments with a statistical RI prediction scheme, it is found that the inclusion of surface salinity significantly improves the RI detection skill, offering promise for improved operational RI prediction. Satellite surface salinity may be valuable for this purpose, given its global coverage and availability in near–real time.
Locally and Remotely Forced Subtropical AMOC Variability: A Matter of Time Scales
Authors: Jamet Quentin , Dewar William K. , Wienders Nicolas , Deremble Bruno , Close Sally , Penduff Thierry
Published: April 2020

Mechanisms driving the North Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) variability at low frequency are of central interest for accurate climate predictions. Although the subpolar gyre region has been identified as a preferred place for generating climate time-scale signals, their southward propagation remains under consideration, complicating the interpretation of the observed time series provided by the Rapid Climate Change–Meridional Overturning Circulation and Heatflux Array–Western Boundary Time Series (RAPID–MOCHA–WBTS) program. In this study, we aim at disentangling the respective contribution of the local atmospheric forcing from signals of remote origin for the subtropical low-frequency AMOC variability. We analyze for this a set of four ensembles of a regional (20°S–55°N), eddy-resolving (1/12°) North Atlantic oceanic configuration, where surface forcing and open boundary conditions are alternatively permuted from fully varying (realistic) to yearly repeating signals. Their analysis reveals the predominance of local, atmospherically forced signal at interannual time scales (2–10 years), whereas signals imposed by the boundaries are responsible for the decadal (10–30 years) part of the spectrum. Due to this marked time-scale separation, we show that, although the intergyre region exhibits peculiarities, most of the subtropical AMOC variability can be understood as a linear superposition of these two signals. Finally, we find that the decadal-scale, boundary-forced AMOC variability has both northern and southern origins, although the former dominates over the latter, including at the site of the RAPID array (26.5°N).
School Counseling and Counseling Psychology Collaboration: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Burkard Alan W. , Kruczek Theresa , Alexander Charlene M.
Published: April 2020

Counseling psychology and school counseling programs have been historically aligned since the inception of their respective professions. Given current trends, there appear to be differences in the foci and approach to training and professional engagement in the two disciplines. The current investigation surveyed programs in which counseling psychology and school counseling programs were housed within the same department or college to identify areas of collaboration. The survey and journal reviews revealed a divide in the areas of curriculum, service delivery, and professional organization engagement. There appeared to be better collaboration in research, although limited in scope. Although counseling psychology and school counseling continue to have shared values, current trends in curriculum needs, accreditation and professional foci suggest a limited scope of collaboration. Research may be an area in which the two professions can remain professionally engaged. We offer suggestions for increasing collaborative activities.
The Moderate Alcohol and Cardiovascular Health Trial (MACH15): Design and methods for a randomized trial of moderate alcohol consumption and cardiometabolic risk
Authors: Spiegelman Donna , Lovato Laura C , Khudyakov Polyna , Wilkens Trine L , Adebamowo Clement A , Adebamowo Sally N , Appel Lawrence J , Beulens Joline WJ , Coughlin Janelle W , Dragsted Lars Ove , Edenberg Howard J , Eriksen Jane N , Estruch Ramon , Grobbee Diederick E , Gulayin Pablo E , Irazola Vilma , Krystal John H , Lazo Mariana , Murray Margaret M , Rimm Eric B , Schrieks Ilse C , Williamson Jeff D , Mukamal Kenneth J
Published: April 2020

Background

Observational studies have documented lower risks of coronary heart disease and diabetes among moderate alcohol consumers relative to abstainers, but only a randomized clinical trial can provide conclusive evidence for or against these associations.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to describe the rationale and design of the Moderate Alcohol and Cardiovascular Health Trial, aimed to assess the cardiometabolic effects of one alcoholic drink daily over an average of six years among adults 50 years or older.

Methods

This multicenter, parallel-arm randomized trial was designed to compare the effects of one standard serving (∼11–15 g) daily of a preferred alcoholic beverage to abstention. The trial aimed to enroll 7800 people at high risk of cardiovascular disease. The primary composite endpoint comprised time to the first occurrence of non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal ischemic stroke, hospitalized angina, coronary/carotid revascularization, or total mortality. The trial was designed to provide >80% power to detect a 15% reduction in the risk of the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included diabetes. Adverse effects of special interest included injuries, congestive heart failure, alcohol use disorders, and cancer.

Results

We describe the design, governance, masking issues, and data handling. In three months of field center activity until termination by the funder, the trial randomized 32 participants, successfully screened another 70, and identified ∼400 additional interested individuals.

Conclusions

We describe a feasible design for a long-term randomized trial of moderate alcohol consumption. Such a study will provide the highest level of evidence for the effects of moderate alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and will directly inform clinical and public health guidelines.
Accuracy of whole-genome sequence imputation using hybrid peeling in large pedigreed livestock populations
Authors: Ros-Freixedes Roger , Whalen Andrew , Chen Ching-Yi , Gorjanc Gregor , Herring William O. , Mileham Alan J. , Hickey John M.
Published: April 2020

Background

The coupling of appropriate sequencing strategies and imputation methods is critical for assembling large whole-genome sequence datasets from livestock populations for research and breeding. In this paper, we describe and validate the coupling of a sequencing strategy with the imputation method hybrid peeling in real animal breeding settings.

Methods

We used data from four pig populations of different size (18,349 to 107,815 individuals) that were widely genotyped at densities between 15,000 and 75,000 markers genome-wide. Around 2% of the individuals in each population were sequenced (most of them at 1× or 2× and 37–92 individuals per population, totalling 284, at 15–30×). We imputed whole-genome sequence data with hybrid peeling. We evaluated the imputation accuracy by removing the sequence data of the 284 individuals with high coverage, using a leave-one-out design. We simulated data that mimicked the sequencing strategy used in the real populations to quantify the factors that affected the individual-wise and variant-wise imputation accuracies using regression trees.

Results

Imputation accuracy was high for the majority of individuals in all four populations (median individual-wise dosage correlation: 0.97). Imputation accuracy was lower for individuals in the earliest generations of each population than for the rest, due to the lack of marker array data for themselves and their ancestors. The main factors that determined the individual-wise imputation accuracy were the genotyping status, the availability of marker array data for immediate ancestors, and the degree of connectedness to the rest of the population, but sequencing coverage of the relatives had no effect. The main factors that determined variant-wise imputation accuracy were the minor allele frequency and the number of individuals with sequencing coverage at each variant site. Results were validated with the empirical observations.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that the coupling of an appropriate sequencing strategy and hybrid peeling is a powerful strategy for generating whole-genome sequence data with high accuracy in large pedigreed populations where only a small fraction of individuals (2%) had been sequenced, mostly at low coverage. This is a critical step for the successful implementation of whole-genome sequence data for genomic prediction and fine-mapping of causal variants.
Complete genome sequence and annotation of the laboratory reference strain Shigella flexneri serotype 5a M90T and genome-wide transcriptional start site determination
Authors: Cervantes-Rivera Ramón , Tronnet Sophie , Puhar Andrea
Published: April 2020

Background

Shigella is a Gram-negative facultative intracellular bacterium that causes bacillary dysentery in humans. Shigella invades cells of the colonic mucosa owing to its virulence plasmid-encoded Type 3 Secretion System (T3SS), and multiplies in the target cell cytosol. Although the laboratory reference strain S. flexneri serotype 5a M90T has been extensively used to understand the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis, its complete genome sequence is not available, thereby greatly limiting studies employing high-throughput sequencing and systems biology approaches.

Results

We have sequenced, assembled, annotated and manually curated the full genome of S. flexneri 5a M90T. This yielded two complete circular contigs, the chromosome and the virulence plasmid (pWR100). To obtain the genome sequence, we have employed long-read PacBio DNA sequencing followed by polishing with Illumina RNA-seq data. This provides a new hybrid strategy to prepare gapless, highly accurate genome sequences, which also cover AT-rich tracks or repetitive sequences that are transcribed. Furthermore, we have performed genome-wide analysis of transcriptional start sites (TSS) and determined the length of 5′ untranslated regions (5′-UTRs) at typical culture conditions for the inoculum of in vitro infection experiments. We identified 6723 primary TSS (pTSS) and 7328 secondary TSS (sTSS). The S. flexneri 5a M90T annotated genome sequence and the transcriptional start sites are integrated into RegulonDB (http://regulondb.ccg.unam.mx) and RSAT (http://embnet.ccg.unam.mx/rsat/) databases to use their analysis tools in the S. flexneri 5a M90T genome.

Conclusions

We provide the first complete genome for S. flexneri serotype 5a, specifically the laboratory reference strain M90T. Our work opens the possibility of employing S. flexneri M90T in high-quality systems biology studies such as transcriptomic and differential expression analyses or in genome evolution studies. Moreover, the catalogue of TSS that we report here can be used in molecular pathogenesis studies as a resource to know which genes are transcribed before infection of host cells. The genome sequence, together with the analysis of transcriptional start sites, is also a valuable tool for precise genetic manipulation of S. flexneri 5a M90T. Further, we present a new hybrid strategy to prepare gapless, highly accurate genome sequences. Unlike currently used hybrid strategies combining long- and short-read DNA sequencing technologies to maximize accuracy, our workflow using long-read DNA sequencing and short-read RNA sequencing provides the added value of using non-redundant technologies, which yield distinct, exploitable datasets.
Assessing graph-based read mappers against a baseline approach highlights strengths and weaknesses of current methods
Authors: Grytten Ivar , Rand Knut D. , Nederbragt Alexander J. , Sandve Geir K.
Published: April 2020

Background

Graph-based reference genomes have become popular as they allow read mapping and follow-up analyses in settings where the exact haplotypes underlying a high-throughput sequencing experiment are not precisely known. Two recent papers show that mapping to graph-based reference genomes can improve accuracy as compared to methods using linear references. Both of these methods index the sequences for most paths up to a certain length in the graph in order to enable direct mapping of reads containing common variants. However, the combinatorial explosion of possible paths through nearby variants also leads to a huge search space and an increased chance of false positive alignments to highly variable regions.

Results

We here assess three prominent graph-based read mappers against a hybrid baseline approach that combines an initial path determination with a tuned linear read mapping method. We show, using a previously proposed benchmark, that this simple approach is able to improve overall accuracy of read-mapping to graph-based reference genomes.

Conclusions

Our method is implemented in a tool Two-step Graph Mapper, which is available at https://github.com/uio-bmi/two_step_graph_mapperalong with data and scripts for reproducing the experiments. Our method highlights characteristics of the current generation of graph-based read mappers and shows potential for improvement for future graph-based read mappers.
Genome-wide analysis of Myo-inositol oxygenase gene family in tomato reveals their involvement in ascorbic acid accumulation
Authors: Munir Shoaib , Mumtaz Muhammad Ali , Ahiakpa John Kojo , Liu Genzhong , Chen Weifang , Zhou Guolin , Zheng Wei , Ye Zhibiao , Zhang Yuyang
Published: April 2020

Background

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C, AsA) is an antioxidant metabolite involved in plant development and environmental stimuli. AsA biosynthesis has been well studied in plants, and MIOX is a critical enzyme in plants AsA biosynthesis pathway. However, Myo-inositol oxygenase (MIOX) gene family members and their involvement in AsA biosynthesis and response to abiotic stress remain unclear.

Results

In this study, five tomato genes encoding MIOX proteins and possessing MIOX motifs were identified. Structural analysis and distribution mapping showed that 5 MIOX genes contain different intron/exon patterns and unevenly distributed among four chromosomes. Besides, expression analyses indicated the remarkable expression of SlMIOX genes in different plant tissues. Furthermore, transgenic lines were obtained by over-expression of the MIOX4 gene in tomato. The overexpression lines showed a significant increase in total ascorbate in leaves and red fruits compared to control. Expression analysis revealed that increased accumulation of AsA in MIOX4 overexpression lines is possible as a consequence of the multiple genes involved in AsA biosynthesis. Myo inositol (MI) feeding in leaf and fruit implied that the Myo-inositol pathway improved the AsA biosynthesis in leaves and fruits. MIOX4 overexpression lines exhibited a better light response, abiotic stress tolerance, and AsA biosynthesis capacity.

Conclusions

These results showed that MIOX4 transgenic lines contribute to AsA biosynthesis, evident as better light response and improved oxidative stress tolerance. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the MIOX gene family and their involvement in ascorbate biosynthesis in tomato.
Novel low-nitrogen stress-responsive long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) in barley landrace B968 (Liuzhutouzidamai) at seedling stage
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Jiang Qi , Jiang Panpan , Zhang Wan , Huang Jianhua , Liu Chenghong , Halford Nigel G. , Lu Ruiju
Published: April 2020

Background

Reducing the dependence of crop production on chemical fertilizer with its associated costs, carbon footprint and other environmental problems is a challenge for agriculture. New solutions are required to solve this problem, and crop breeding for high nitrogen use efficiency or tolerance of low nitrogen availability has been widely considered to be a promising approach. However, the molecular mechanisms of high nitrogen use efficiency or low-nitrogen tolerance in crop plants are still to be elucidated, including the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).

Results

In this study, we identified 498 lncRNAs in barley (Hordeum vulgare) landrace B968 (Liuzhutouzidamai), of which 487 were novel, and characterised 56 that were responsive to low-nitrogen stress. For functional analysis of differentially-expressed lncRNAs, the gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment of co-expressed and co-located protein-coding genes were analyzed, and interactions with annotated co-expressed protein coding genes or micro RNAs (miRNAs) were further predicted. Target mimicry prediction between differentially-expressed lncRNAs and miRNAs identified 40 putative target mimics of lncRNAs and 58 target miRNAs. Six differentially-expressed lncRNAs were further validated by qPCR, and one in particular showed consistent differential expression using both techniques. Expression levels of most of the lncRNAs were found to be very low, and this may be the reason for the apparent inconsistency between RNA-seq and qPCR data.

Conclusions

The analysis of lncRNAs that are differentially-expressed under low-nitrogen stress, as well as their co-expressed or co-located protein coding genes and target mimics, could elucidate complex and hitherto uncharacterised mechanisms involved in the adaptation to low-nitrogen stress in barley and other crop plants.
Endoscopic decompression of acute intestinal distension is associated with reduced mortality in critically ill patients
Authors: Book Thorsten , Kirstein Martha M. , Schneider Andrea , Manns Michael P. , Voigtländer Torsten
Published: April 2020

Background

Endoscopic placement of intestinal decompression tubes is a feasible technique for treatment of acute intestinal dilation. Given the heterogeneity of the underlying diseases leading to intestinal obstruction data on the significance of endoscopic procedures for treatment of these conditions are sparse.

Methods

In the study period from 2008 to 2019 all patients receiving a decompression tube were identified by retrospective chart review and analyzed.

Results

A total of 59 decompression tubes were placed in 50 patients. Technical success was achieved in 98% (58/59 tubes). As major complication one small bowel perforation occurred (1/59; 1.7%). Causes for impaired intestinal transit comprised tumor stenoses 22% (11/50), infections 18% (9/50), post-operative paralysis 14% (7/50), neurological diseases 8% (4/50), trauma 2% (1/50) and others 36% (18/50). Most patients (74%; 37/50) were critically ill and treated on intensive care unit. Treatment response after tube insertion was documented in 76% of patients (38/50) whereas 24% (12/50) did not fulfill response criteria. Patients with treatment response showed a significantly better outcome compared to non-responders. Responders had a median survival of 113 days (95% CI 41–186) compared to 15 days (95% CI 6–24) in non-responders (p = 0.002). Analysis of laboratory parameters after stratification in responders and non-responders to endoscopic therapy showed that non-responders had significantly higher levels of CRP and lower platelet count at baseline (CRP 262 mg/L (IQR 101–307) vs. 94 mg/L (IQR 26–153): p = 0.027; platelets 69 thsd/μL (IQR 33–161) vs. 199 thsd/μL (IQR 138–289): p = 0.009).

Conclusions

Endoscopic decompression is a safe procedure for acute management of impaired intestinal transit even in critically ill patients. Response to therapy is associated with improved outcome and markers of inflammation and organ function such as CRP, platelet count and serum lactate have to be taken into account for therapy monitoring and evaluation of prognosis.
The epidemiologic characteristics and associated risk factors of preterm birth from 2004 to 2013 in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Yu-Kang , Tseng Yuan-Tsung , Chen Kow-Tong
Published: April 2020

Background

The rate of preterm birth has been increasing worldwide. Most preterm babies are at an increased risk of central nervous system impairments as well as respiratory and gastrointestinal complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiologic characteristics of and associated factors contributing to preterm birth in Taiwan.

Methods

Information on obstetric antecedents and risk factors for preterm birth in pregnant women was obtained from the National Health Insurance Research (NHIR) database provided by the Taiwan National Health Research Institute. All live births from 2004 to 2013 in Taiwan were included in this study.

Results

A total of 130,362 live births from 2004 to 2013 were included in this study. Overall, the average annual rate of preterm births increased by 5.3% (from 3.33% in 2004 to 5.11% in 2013). Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that nulliparous women, multifetal pregnancies, advanced mother age, history of preterm birth, history of maternal drug abuse/dependence, and maternal medical complications were positively associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (all p-values< 0.05).

Conclusion

The overall proportion of preterm births increased from 2004 to 2013 in Taiwan. Babies born preterm had a higher risk of developing morbidities and mortalities. The development of a comprehensive program to identify the high-risk group is needed for effective interventions to prevent premature birth.