bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isokinetic Evaluation of Knee Strength and Endurance in Hemodialysis Patients Treated with the Transpatellar Tunnel Technique for Bilateral Spontaneous Quadriceps Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Birişik Fevzi , Ekinci Mehmet , Bayram Serkan , Şahinkaya Türker , Ergin Ömer Naci , Erşen Ali , Aşık Mehmet
Published: August 2020

There are numerous surgical techniques described for treating acute quadriceps tendon rupture. We aim to evaluate the strength of the quadriceps tendon using isokinetic tests in hemodialysis patients treated with the transpatellar tunnel technique for bilateral spontaneous quadriceps tendon ruptures. Additionally, functional and clinical results were investigated and compared with hemodialysis patients without a history of quadriceps tendon rupture. We retrospectively reviewed hemodialysis patients diagnosed with quadriceps tendon rupture who were operated between 2005 and 2015 at our institution. Eight patients with simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture treated with the transpatellar tunnel technique (group 1; the operated group) and 10 patients with chronic renal failure without a history of quadriceps tendon rupture who underwent hemodialysis (group 2; the control group) were included in this study. The active range of motion (ROM), Lysholm and Tegner scores, knee flexor and extensor muscle strengths, and endurances were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer for each group and compared between the groups. The mean age was 44.6 and 40.2 years in groups 1 and 2, respectively. The mean follow-up was 58.6 (range, 24–140) months in group 1. The active ROM was 113.7 ± 9.7 degrees in group 1 and 130 ± 4.8 degrees in group 2 (p < 0.001). The mean Tegner score was not significantly different between the groups (1.87 ± 1.1 in group 1 vs. 2.6 ± 0.9 in group 2; p = 0.212). However, the Lysholm score was significantly higher in group 2 (93.2 ± 7.3 vs. 76.7 ± 13.8; p = 0.009). The mean extensor strength and endurance were significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1. The mean flexor strength and endurance were higher in group 1 than in group 2, but no significant difference was found. Although using the transpatellar tunnel technique for bilateral spontaneous quadriceps tendon ruptures in hemodialysis patients can provide acceptable functional results, the ROM and strength particularly in extensor muscle might be significantly lower than control group. Level of evidence is Level III therapeutic case–control study.
Anthropometric Comparison between Indian and Arabian Knees with Respect to Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Nair Vijayamohan Sreedharan , Radhamony Niranj Ganeshan , Padmalayam Arjun , Govindan Nijith O.
Published: August 2020

Implants used for total knee replacement (TKR) in most Asian countries are not designed originally for the Asian population, and studies have shown anthropometric differences with respect to TKR among various ethnic groups. For this reason, implants designed for a specific population may not provide an anatomic fit when used in other populations. To avoid the consequences associated with such a misfit, the concept of ethnic-specific implant design is being introduced. In this study, the knee anthropometry of the Indian and Arabian patients was compared. They were operated with implants which were not ethnic-specific designs. Since the consequences associated with implant misfit apply equally to both the Indian and Arabian population, it is essential to compare the knee anthropometry of these two populations. Anthropometric measurements of the distal femur and proximal tibia of the Indian and Arabian knees were obtained intraoperatively using a Vernier caliper. Their respective aspect ratios (ARs) were calculated and statistically compared. It was found that the ARs of both tibia and femur of Indian and Arabian population did not show any statistical difference. There was no statistical difference between Indian and Arabian males (p = 0.345) and between Indian and Arabian females (p = 0.8210). However, a statistical difference in tibial AR (p-value = 0.049) and femoral AR (p-value = 0.003) was found significant when a comparison was made between the knees of Indian males and Indian females in the study. The above results suggested that TKR implants designed anatomically to suit the Indian population can also suit the Arabian population and vice versa. The obtained data can help implant designers to come up with ethnic-specific TKR implants.
Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Knee Arthroplasty in the Era of COVID-19
Authors: Ding Benjamin Tze Keong , Ng Jensen , Tan Kelvin Guoping
Published: August 2020

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, aimed at achieving early recovery for surgical patients, reducing length of hospital stay, and complications. The purpose of this study was to provide an insight of the impact of the COVID-19 on ERAS protocols for knee arthroplasty patients in a tertiary hospital and potential strategy changes for postpandemic practice. We retrospectively reviewed all cases that underwent surgery utilizing ERAS protocols in the quarter prior to the pandemic (fourth quarter of 2019) and during the first quarter of 2020 when the pandemic started. A review of the literature on ERAS protocols for knee arthroplasty during the COVID-19 pandemic was also performed and discussed. A total of 199 knee arthroplasties were performed in fourth quarter of 2019 as compared with 76 in the first quarter of 2020 during the COVID-19 outbreak. Patients who underwent surgery in the first quarter of 2020 had shorter inpatient stays (3.8 vs. 4.5 days), larger percentage of discharges by postoperative day 5 (86.8 vs. 74.9%), and a larger proportion of patients discharged to their own homes (68 vs. 54%). The overall complication rate (1.3 vs. 3%) and readmission within 30 days (2.6 vs. 2%) was similar between both groups. ERAS protocols appear to reduce hospital lengths of stay for patients undergoing knee arthroplasty without increasing the risk of short-term complications and readmissions. The beneficial effects of ERAS appear to be amplified by and are synchronous with the requirements of operating in the era of a pandemic.
Small regimes in the Middle East: a conceptual and theoretical alternative to small states in a non-Western region
Authors: Szalai Máté
Published: August 2020

The concepts and theories of small state studies, a sub-discipline of international relations, have been connected to Western political development, making their applicability in regions outside of Europe questionable. Using the framework of the English School, the present article aims at identifying the main elements of small state theory which are needed to be altered to make it suitable for the Middle East and North Africa. Investigating the regional manifestation of main primary institutions which form the basis of the analysis of small states (namely statehood, sovereignty, conflict and cooperation), the research concludes that the leverage of Middle Eastern small states is highly different than it is expected by traditional small state studies, especially due to the regional norms related to statehood and conflict. Consequently, changing our conceptual framework of “small states” to “small regimes” would be also necessary to better interpret how such entities behave in the Middle East or other regions of the world.
Multi-scale microchannel processing and hydrogen production performance of microreactors for methanol reforming
Authors: Su Liang , Yang Yifan , Chu Xuyang , Zheng Tianqing , Zhang Jinlei , Fu Ting
Published: August 2020

The methanol reforming microreactor has the advantages of small size, high efficiency, and high safety and is one of the main ways of online hydrogen production. Considering the catalyst of traditional microchannel reactors falloff quite easily, this study designs and manufactures a microchannel with a secondary structure to address this problem. First, the base structure of the microchannel was processed by wire cut electrical discharge machining (WEDM), and then a reticulated secondary structure having a depth of 30 μm and a width of 50 μm was processed on the substrate of the microchannel by laser beam machining (LBM). In this study, the catalyst loading strength of the microchannel with a secondary structure was tested, and the influence of the secondary structure on the static performance of the catalyst was studied. Finally, hydrogen production experiments were carried out on microchannels with a secondary structure, and the influence of the secondary structure on hydrogen production performance and hydrogen production stability at different flow rates and temperatures was determined.
Making antifungal fabrics from turmeric-based dyes
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: August 2020

The antifungal properties of turmeric make it a great tool for mitigating skin infections.
Identification of salt tolerance QTL in a wheat RIL mapping population using destructive and non-destructive phenotyping
Authors: Asif Muhammad A. , Garcia Melissa , Tilbrook Joanne , Brien Chris , Dowling Kate , Berger Bettina , Schilling Rhiannon K. , Short Laura , Trittermann Christine , Gilliham Matthew , Fleury Delphine , Roy Stuart J. , Pearson Allison S.
Published: August 2020

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important food crops, however it is only moderately tolerant to salinity stress. To improve wheat yield under saline conditions, breeding for improved salinity tolerance of wheat is needed. We have identified nine quantitative trail loci (QTL) for different salt tolerance sub-traits in a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population, derived from the bi-parental cross of Excalibur × Kukri. This population was screened for salinity tolerance subtraits using a combination of both destructive and non-destructive phenotyping. Genotyping by sequencing (GBS) was used to construct a high-density genetic linkage map, consisting of 3236 markers, and utilised for mapping QTL. Of the nine mapped QTL, six were detected under salt stress, including QTL for maintenance of shoot growth under salinity (QG(1-5).asl-5A, QG(1-5).asl-7B) sodium accumulation (QNa.asl-2A), chloride accumulation (QCl.asl-2A, QCl.asl-3A) and potassium:sodium ratio (QK:Na.asl-2DS2). Potential candidate genes within these QTL intervals were shortlisted using bioinformatics tools. These findings are expected to facilitate the breeding of new salt tolerant wheat cultivars.
Event shape engineering and multiplicity dependent study of identified particle production in proton + proton collisions at

s

= 13 TeV using PYTHIA8
Authors: Khuntia Arvind , Tripathy Sushanta , Bisht Ashish , Sahoo Raghunath
Published: August 2020

Small system collectivity observed at the LHC energies along with enhancement of strangeness makes high-multiplicity proton + proton (pp) collisions very interesting in order to look for QGP-like features, usually found in heavy-ion collisions. It may be interesting to perform a double differential study of different observables in pp collisions in terms of charged particle multiplicity and event shape in order to understand the new dimensions in high-multiplicity pp physics. We study the correlation between the number of multi-partonic interactions (nMPI), event shape (transverse spherocity) and charged particle multiplicity classes. For the first time, we report the simulation results on the spherocity and charged particle multiplicity dependent study of (π
+ + π
−), (K+ + K−), (p +

p

¯

), K∗0, ϕ and (

Λ
+

Λ

0

¯

) production in pp collisions at

s

= 13 TeV using PYTHIA8. We explore the event shape and charged particle multiplicity dependence of the transverse momentum (p
T) spectra, integrated yield, mean transverse momentum (⟨p
T⟩) and particle ratios of the identified particles. This study provides a baseline for exploring the event topology and final state multiplicity dependence of identified particle production in the LHC pp collisions.
Strength testing or strength training: considerations for future research
Authors: Spitz Robert W , Bell Zachary W , Wong Vickie , Yamada Yujiro , Song Jun Seob , Buckner Samuel L , Abe Takashi , Loenneke Jeremy P
Published: August 2020

Maximal strength testing is often performed to assess the efficacy of training programs or as a way to prescribe exercise load. Generally, it is believed that high load exercise is superior to low load exercise at increasing absolute strength, however this is not always the case (i.e. strength increases similarly between groups). We hypothesized that some of the discrepancy in the literature may be related to performing the strength test itself. To investigate this further we reviewed the literature looking for studies comparing high load and low load exercise. The included studies were separated into ‘no extra practice’ and ‘practice’. No extra practice means the strength test was only performed at pre and post whereas practice refers to additional strength tests performed throughout the training intervention. Our results indicated that the differences between high load and low load exercise can be reduced when the group training with a low load is allowed additional exposure to the maximal strength test. This suggests that repeated exposure to strength tests may augment low load training adaptations and influence the outcomes. We discuss potential moderators of this relationship (e.g. how low is the low load, complexity of the skill) and offer considerations for future research. Based on this it would be recommended that when investigating the effects of low load training strength tests should be limited to pre and post intervention or if a control group is utilized then the control group should receive the same number of exposures to the strength test.
Propagation effects in multipass high harmonic generation from plasma surfaces
Authors: Tietze S , Zepf M , Rykovanov S G , Yeung M
Published: August 2020

Multipass high harmonic generation from plasma surfaces is a promising technique to enhance the efficiency of the generation process. In this paper it is shown that there is an optimal distance between two targets where the efficiency is maximized, depending on the laser and plasma parameters. This can be explained by the Gouy phase shift, which leads to the relative phase between the colours being changed with propagation in free space. A simple model is used to mimic the propagation of light from one target to another and to observe this effect in 1D particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. The results are also verified using 2D PIC simulations.
Increasingly uneven intra-seasonal distribution of daily and hourly precipitation over Eastern China
Authors: Chen Yang
Published: August 2020

It has been long appreciated that precipitation falls unevenly in time, but the degree of unevenness and its changes with warming have been seldomly quantified. These quantifications, however, matter to various sectors (e.g. crop and livestock yields) for addressing evolutionary hydro-meteorological hazards. Using gauge observations at hourly- and daily-resolution, precipitation unevenness is measured by the number of wettest days/hours for half of seasonal precipitation totals over Eastern China, a major breadbasket vulnerable to precipitation volatility intra-seasonally. Across the region, half of seasonal totals needs only 11 d or even more unexpectedly just 44 h to precipitate. During 1970–2017, though seasonal precipitation amount changed little, the intra-seasonal distribution of precipitation, in both frequency and amount, has been getting significantly more uneven, with more widespread and faster changes manifesting in hourly records. The regional-scale unevenness increase is unlikely modulated by internal variability alone, suggesting detectable contributions from anthropogenic climate change. The increased unevenness has led to significant lengthening of the longest dry spells, exposing the region to a more volatile precipitation mode—burstier-but-wetter storms with prolonged droughts in-between.
Climate change and shifts in cropping systems together exacerbate China’s water scarcity
Authors: Zhang Li , Chen Fu , Lei Yongdeng
Published: August 2020

Water shortage is regarded as the most critical constraint limiting the world’s capacity for food security. While previous studies have attributed water scarcity primarily to climate change or some natural factors (e.g. lack of fresh water), few have investigated the impacts of shifts in agricultural systems on water resources. This study quantitatively distinguished the effects of spatiotemporal changes in climatic factors (e.g. temperature and precipitation), planted area, and crop type on China’s irrigation water resources by use of logarithmic mean Divisia index. The results indicated that in the past 25 years (from 1990 to 2015), changes in planted area, crop mix, and climatic factors all led to an increase in irrigation water demand (IWD) in China. Changes in planted area had the greatest effect on IWD (+45.4 × 109 m3), followed by the climate change effect (+10.8 × 109 m3). In particular, the rapid expansion of maize and other crops in northern China in recent decades has greatly increased irrigation water consumption. It is suggested that in addition to mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, China must address its water scarcity problems by appropriately controlling the scale of some water-intensive crops. These strategies will be essential for adapting agricultural production to future climate change while ensuring food security and water sustainability.
Duality relations between spatial birth–death processes and diffusions in Hilbert space
Authors: Greenman Chris D
Published: August 2020

Spatially dependent birth–death processes can be modelled by kinetic models such as the BBGKY hierarchy. Diffusion in infinite dimensional systems can be modelled with Brownian motion in Hilbert space. In this work Doi field theoretic formalism is utilised to establish dualities between these classes of processes. This enables path integral methods to calculate expectations of duality functions. These are exemplified with models ranging from stochastic cable signalling to jump-diffusion processes.
Position representation of single-mode Gaussian channels beyond the Gaussian functional form
Authors: Davalos David , Moreno Camilo , Urbina Juan-Diego , Pineda Carlos
Published: August 2020

We study one-mode Gaussian quantum channels in continuous-variable systems by performing a black-box characterization using complete positivity and trace preserving conditions, and report the existence of two subsets that do not have a functional Gaussian form. Our study covers as a particular limit the case of singular channels, thus connecting our results with their known classification scheme based on canonical forms. Our full characterization of Gaussian channels without Gaussian functional form is completed by showing how Gaussian states are transformed under these operations, and by deriving the conditions for the existence of master equations for the non-singular cases. We show that although every functional form can be found in the vicinity of the identity, one of them does not parametrize unitary channels.
CSynth: an interactive modelling and visualization tool for 3D chromatin structure
Authors: Todd Stephen , Todd Peter , McGowan Simon J , Hughes James R , Kakui Yasutaka , Leymarie Frederic Fol , Latham William , Taylor Stephen
Published: August 2020

Motivation

The 3D structure of chromatin in the nucleus is important for gene expression and regulation. Chromosome conformation capture techniques, such as Hi-C, generate large amounts of data showing interaction points on the genome but these are hard to interpret using standard tools.

Results

We have developed CSynth, an interactive 3D genome browser and real-time chromatin restraint-based modeller to visualize models of any chromosome conformation capture (3C) data. Unlike other modelling systems, CSynth allows dynamic interaction with the modelling parameters to allow experimentation and effects on the model. It also allows comparison of models generated from data in different tissues/cell states and the results of third-party 3D modelling outputs. In addition, we include an option to view and manipulate these complicated structures using Virtual Reality (VR) so scientists can immerse themselves in the models for further understanding. This VR component has also proven to be a valuable teaching and a public engagement tool.

Availabilityand implementation

CSynth is web based and available to use at csynth.org.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
A database of flavivirus RNA structures with a search algorithm for pseudoknots and triple base interactions
Authors: Zammit Alan , Helwerda Leon , Olsthoorn René C L , Verbeek Fons J , Gultyaev Alexander P
Published: August 2020

Motivation

The Flavivirus genus includes several important pathogens, such as Zika, dengue and yellow fever virus. Flavivirus RNA genomes contain a number of functionally important structures in their 3′ untranslated regions (3′UTRs). Due to the diversity of sequences and topologies of these structures, their identification is often difficult. In contrast, predictions of such structures are important for understanding of flavivirus replication cycles and development of antiviral strategies.

Results

We have developed an algorithm for structured pattern search in RNA sequences, including secondary structures, pseudoknots and triple base interactions. Using the data on known conserved flavivirus 3′UTR structures, we constructed structural descriptors which covered the diversity of patterns in these motifs. The descriptors and the search algorithm were used for the construction of a database of flavivirus 3′UTR structures. Validating this approach, we identified a number of domains matching a general pattern of exoribonuclease Xrn1-resistant RNAs in the growing group of insect-specific flaviviruses.

Availability and implementation

The Leiden Flavivirus RNA Structure Database is available at https://rna.liacs.nl. The search algorithm is available at https://github.com/LeidenRNA/SRHS.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
SAAMBE-SEQ: a sequence-based method for predicting mutation effect on protein–protein binding affinity
Authors: Li Gen , Pahari Swagata , Murthy Adithya Krishna , Liang Siqi , Fragoza Robert , Yu Haiyuan , Alexov Emil
Published: August 2020

Motivation

Vast majority of human genetic disorders are associated with mutations that affect protein–protein interactions by altering wild-type binding affinity. Therefore, it is extremely important to assess the effect of mutations on protein–protein binding free energy to assist the development of therapeutic solutions. Currently, the most popular approaches use structural information to deliver the predictions, which precludes them to be applicable on genome-scale investigations. Indeed, with the progress of genomic sequencing, researchers are frequently dealing with assessing effect of mutations for which there is no structure available.

Results

Here, we report a Gradient Boosting Decision Tree machine learning algorithm, the SAAMBE-SEQ, which is completely sequence-based and does not require structural information at all. SAAMBE-SEQ utilizes 80 features representing evolutionary information, sequence-based features and change of physical properties upon mutation at the mutation site. The approach is shown to achieve Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) of 0.83 in 5-fold cross validation in a benchmarking test against experimentally determined binding free energy change (ΔΔG). Further, a blind test (no-STRUC) is compiled collecting experimental ΔΔG upon mutation for protein complexes for which structure is not available and used to benchmark SAAMBE-SEQ resulting in PCC in the range of 0.37–0.46. The accuracy of SAAMBE-SEQ method is found to be either better or comparable to most advanced structure-based methods. SAAMBE-SEQ is very fast, available as webserver and stand-alone code, and indeed utilizes only sequence information, and thus it is applicable for genome-scale investigations to study the effect of mutations on protein–protein interactions.

Availability and implementation

SAAMBE-SEQ is available at http://compbio.clemson.edu/saambe_webserver/indexSEQ.php#started.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Trypanosoma brucei gambiense-iELISA: A Promising New Test for the Post-Elimination Monitoring of Human African Trypanosomiasis
Authors: Geerts Manon , Van Reet Nick , Leyten Sander , Berghmans Raf , Rock Kat S , Coetzer Theresa H T , Eyssen Lauren E-A , Büscher Philippe
Published: August 2020

Background

The World Health Organization targeted Trypanosoma brucei gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (gHAT) for elimination as a public health problem and for elimination of transmission. To measure gHAT elimination success with prevalences close to zero, highly specific diagnostics are necessary. Such a test exists in the form of an antibody-mediated complement lysis test, the trypanolysis test, but biosafety issues and technological requirements prevent its large-scale use. We developed an inhibition ELISA with high specificity and sensitivity that is applicable in regional laboratories in gHAT endemic countries.

Methods

The T. b. gambiense inhibition ELISA (g-iELISA) is based on the principle that binding of monoclonal antibodies to specific epitopes of T. b. gambiense surface glycoproteins can be inhibited by circulating antibodies of gHAT patients directed against the same epitopes. Using trypanolysis as reference test, the diagnostic accuracy of the g-iELISA was evaluated on plasma samples from 739 gHAT patients and 619 endemic controls and on dried blood spots prepared with plasma of 95 gHAT and 37 endemic controls.

Results

Overall sensitivity and specificity on plasma were, respectively, 98.0% (95% CI 96.7–98.9) and 99.5% (95% CI 98.6–99.9). With dried blood spots, sensitivity was 92.6% (95% CI 85.4–97.0), and specificity was 100% (95% CI 90.5–100.0). The g-iELISA is stable for at least 8 months when stored at 2–8°C.

Conclusion

The g-iELISA might largely replace trypanolysis for monitoring gHAT elimination and for postelimination surveillance. The g-iELISA kit is available for evaluation in reference laboratories in endemic countries.
Patient Characteristics and Outcomes of 11 721 Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Hospitalized Across the United States
Authors: Fried Michael W , Crawford Julie M , Mospan Andrea R , Watkins Stephanie E , Munoz Breda , Zink Richard C , Elliott Sherry , Burleson Kyle , Landis Charles , Reddy K Rajender , Brown Robert S
Published: August 2020

Background

As coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disseminates throughout the United States, a better understanding of the patient characteristics associated with hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality in diverse geographic regions is essential.

Methods

Hospital chargemaster data on adult patients with COVID-19 admitted to 245 hospitals across 38 states between 15 February and 20 April 2020 were assessed. The clinical course from admission, through hospitalization, and to discharge or death was analyzed.

Results

A total of 11 721 patients were included (majority were >60 years of age [59.9%] and male [53.4%]). Comorbidities included hypertension (46.7%), diabetes (27.8%), cardiovascular disease (18.6%), obesity (16.1%), and chronic kidney disease (12.2%). Mechanical ventilation was required by 1967 patients (16.8%). Mortality among hospitalized patients was 21.4% and increased to 70.5% among those on mechanical ventilation. Male sex, older age, obesity, geographic region, and the presence of chronic kidney disease or a preexisting cardiovascular disease were associated with increased odds of mechanical ventilation. All aforementioned risk factors, with the exception of obesity, were associated with increased odds of death (all P values < .001). Many patients received investigational medications for treatment of COVID-19, including 48 patients on remdesivir and 4232 on hydroxychloroquine.

Conclusions

This large observational cohort describes the clinical course and identifies factors associated with the outcomes of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across the United States. These data can inform strategies to prioritize prevention and treatment for this disease.
Neuromuscular Junction Aging: A Role for Biomarkers and Exercise
Authors: Pratt Jedd , De Vito Giuseppe , Narici Marco , Boreham Colin
Published: August 2020

Age-related skeletal muscle degradation known as “sarcopenia” exerts considerable strain on public health systems globally. While the pathogenesis of such atrophy is undoubtedly multifactorial, disruption at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) has recently gained traction as a key explanatory factor. The NMJ, an essential communicatory link between nerve and muscle, undergoes profound changes with advancing age. Ascertaining whether such changes potentiate the onset of sarcopenia would be paramount in facilitating a timely implementation of targeted therapeutic strategies. Hence, there is a growing level of importance to further substantiate the effects of age on NMJs, in parallel with developing measures to attenuate such changes. As such, this review aimed to establish the current standpoint on age-related NMJ deterioration and consequences for skeletal muscle, while illuminating a role for biomarkers and exercise in ameliorating these alterations. Recent insights into the importance of key biomarkers for NMJ stability are provided, while the stimulative benefits of exercise in preserving NMJ function are demonstrated. Further elucidation of the diagnostic and prognostic relevance of biomarkers, coupled with the therapeutic benefits of regular exercise may be crucial in combating age-related NMJ and skeletal muscle degradation.
The magnitude of intimate partner violence during pregnancy in Eldoret, Kenya: exigency for policy action
Authors: Luhumyo Loice , Mwaliko Emily , Tonui Philliph , Getanda Amos , Hann Katrina
Published: August 2020

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is sexual, psychological and physical coercive acts used against persons by intimate partners. When IPV occurs during pregnancy (IPVp), it can result in adverse maternal and pregnancy outcomes. No policy nor practice direction exists to address the rates and risk factors of IPVp in Kenya. Determining the prevalence, types and determinants of IPVp in Western Kenya would aid in the identification of pregnant women affected by and/or at risk of IPVp, as well as informing the development of policy, practices and programmes to support preventive interventions. In this cross-sectional study of 369 women who had given birth at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, participants were recruited using systematic sampling and data collected via structured questionnaires adopted from the WHO Violence Against Women Instrument. Associations were made in relation to physical or sexual violence and psychological violence. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between determinants and occurrence of IPVp. The overall prevalence of IPVp was 34.1%. Prevalence of physical or sexual violence was 22.8%. Psychological violence emerged as the most common (27.4%) form of IPVp. A lower than tertiary level of education and previous experience of IPV were individually associated with physical/sexual IPVp, whereas psychological IPVp was associated with previous experience of IPV and was prevented by the intimate partner having formal employment. Preterm birth rates were found to be higher than the country’s rates. The prevalence rates of IPVp are high in Western Kenya. Strategies that address the promotion of respectful, nonviolent relationships and that interrupt the development of risk factors are required. Policies (clinical guidelines) targeting prevention of IPVp and screening and the identification of at-risk women and survivors of IPVp are needed urgently. Primary prevention through interrupting the occurrence of predisposing factors is key in addressing IPVp.
Incidence, Clinical Characteristics, and Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Single-Center Study in Madrid, Spain
Authors: Guerra Ivan , Algaba Alicia , Jiménez Laura , Mar Aller Mª , Garza Daniel , Bonillo Daniel , Molina Esteban Laura María , Bermejo Fernando
Published: August 2020

Background

There are scarce data about SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our aim was to analyze the incidence, clinical presentation, and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with IBD.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional, observational study. We contacted all the patients being treated at our IBD unit to identify those patients with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, following the World Health Organization case definition. Data were obtained by patient electronical medical records and by phone interview.

Results

Eighty-two of 805 patients with IBD (10.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.3-12.5) were diagnosed as having confirmed (28 patients, 3.5%; 95% CI, 2.4-5.0) or suspected (54 patients, 6.7%) infection. Patient age was 46 ± 14 years, 44 patients were female (53.7%), 17.3% were smokers, 51.2% had Crohn disease (CD), and 39.0% had comorbidities. Digestive symptoms were reported in 41 patients (50.0%), with diarrhea as the most common (42.7%). One patient (1.2%) was diagnosed with IBD flare-up during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Twenty-two patients (26.8%) temporarily withdrew from their IBD treatment because of COVID-19. Most of the patients had mild disease (79.3%), and 1 patient died (1.2%). In the multivariate analysis, the presence of dyspnea was associated with moderate to severe infection (odds ratio, 5.3; 95% CI, 1.6-17.7; P = 0.01) and myalgias (odds ratio, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.3-17.9; P = 0.02) were related to a milder clinical course. Immunosuppression was not related to severity.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with IBD is not rare. Dyspnea is associated with a more severe infection. Therapy for IBD, including immunomodulators and biologic therapy, is not related to a greater severity of COVID-19, and SARS-CoV-2 infections do not appear to be related to IBD flare-ups.
Preoperative autologous platelet pheresis reduces allogeneic platelet use and improves the postoperative PaO2/FiO2 ratio in complex aortic surgery: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Duan Lian , Wang E , Hu Guo-Huang , Zhang Cheng-Liang , Liu Si-Ni , Duan Yan-Ying
Published: August 2020

OBJECTIVES

An autologous platelet-rich plasma pheresis (aPP) strategy can harvest partial whole blood that is separated into erythrocytes, plasma and platelets, and can reduce blood loss and transfusion during cardiovascular surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, the blood and organ conservation effects of this technique have not been confirmed in the context of complex aortic surgery.

METHODS

Perioperative records of 147 adult patients who underwent complex aortic surgery were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

All patients received regular blood conservation treatment, and 57 patients received aPP. Whether or not the participants were propensity matched, decreased platelet and cryoprecipitate transfusions were found in the aPP group (both P < 0.001), but there were non-significant differences in erythrocyte transfusion, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores and other outcomes when compared with the same parameters in the non-aPP group. The aPP group had a higher arterial oxygen partial pressure to inhaled oxygen concentration ratio on postoperative days 1, 2 and 7 than the non-aPP group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.048, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The utilization of aPP was associated with a reduction in allogeneic platelet and cryoprecipitate transfusions as well as minor lung-protective effects during complex aortic surgery using CPB.
Treating infections caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE): a pragmatic approach to antimicrobial stewardship on behalf of the UKCPA Pharmacy Infection Network (PIN)
Authors: Hughes Stephen , Gilchrist Mark , Heard Katie , Hamilton Ryan , Sneddon Jacqueline
Published: August 2020

The emergence of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) as a major cause of invasive infection both within the UK and internationally poses a very real concern for all providers of healthcare. The burden of morbidity and mortality associated with CPE infections is well described. The need for early, targeted, effective and safe antimicrobial therapy remains key for the management of these infected patients yet reliable antimicrobial treatment options remain scarce. In the absence of a universal treatment for these CPE invasive infections, individual treatment options tailored to susceptibilities and severity of infection are required. This working group from within the UK Clinical Pharmacy Association (UKCPA) Pharmacy Infection Network has developed evidence-based treatment recommendations to support infection specialists in managing these complex infections. A systematic review of peer-reviewed research was performed and analysed. We report consensus recommendations for the management of CPE-associated infections. The national expert panel makes therapeutic recommendations regarding the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the drugs and pharmacokinetic targets, dosing, dosage adjustment and monitoring of parameters for novel and established antimicrobial therapies with CPE activity. This manuscript provides the infection specialist with pragmatic and evidence-based options for the management of CPE infections.
Validation of a New Protocol to Collect and Isolate Plasma from Pregnant Women for Noninvasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
Authors: Giroux Sylvie , Badeau Mylene , Jeuken Julie , Caron Andre , Girouard Joël , Rousseau François
Published: August 2020

Background

Most laboratories use specialized tubes (e.g., Streck) to recover circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) for noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT). We validated a low cost, simple procedure for collecting NIPT samples in remote laboratories that avoids highspeed centrifugation. EDTA gel blood sampling tube allows simple separation of plasma from blood cells. Decanted plasma is filtered to remove cell debris. The procedure can be performed within a few minutes after the blood centrifugation step, and ccfDNA-grade plasma can be frozen for transportation.

Methods

We recruited 51 pregnant women and collected blood in one EDTA-gel Greiner tube and two Streck tubes. All tubes were centrifuged at 1600 g x 10 min within 6 h of sample collection. Plasma from EDTA tubes was poured into a syringe cylinder and filtered through a 0.45 µm Millipore filter. Plasma from Streck tubes was recovered with a pipette and one was filtered as above while the second was centrifuged at 16 000 g. The ccfDNA was isolated and NGS sequencing libraries were prepared and sequenced on an Illumina system. Fetal fractions were estimated using SeqFF. This study had a power of 79% to detect a decrease of 1% in fetal fractions with the new method.

Results

We did not observe any significant difference between the three procedures for the fetal fraction nor for the quality or quantity of libraries produced.

Conclusion

EDTA-gel tubes with filtration provide high quality plasma for ccfDNA analysis and can be sent frozen to the NIPT laboratory. This is economical and it frees the laboratory of time-consuming steps.
Pathways regulating equine skeletal muscle protein synthesis respond in a dose-dependent manner to graded levels of protein intake
Authors: Loos Caroline M M , McLeod Kyle R , Stratton Sophie C , van Doorn David A , Kalmar Isabelle D , Vanzant Eric S , Urschel Kristine L
Published: August 2020

Activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-controlled anabolic signaling pathways in skeletal muscle of rodents and humans is responsive to the level of dietary protein supply, with maximal activation and rates of protein synthesis achieved with 0.2 to 0.4 g protein/kg body weight (BW). In horses, few data are available on the required level of dietary protein to maximize protein synthesis for maintenance and growth of skeletal muscle. To evaluate the effect of dietary protein level on muscle mTOR pathway activation, five mares received different amounts of a protein supplement that provided 0, 0.06, 0.125, 0.25, or 0.5 g of crude protein (CP)/kg BW per meal in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. On each sample day, horses were fasted overnight and were fed only their protein meal the following morning. A preprandial (0 min) and postprandial (90 min) blood sample was collected and a gluteus medius muscle sample was obtained 90 min after feeding the protein meal. Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, insulin, and amino acid concentrations. Activation of mTOR pathway components (mTOR and ribosomal protein S6 [rpS6]) in the muscle samples was measured by Western immunoblot analysis. Postprandial plasma glucose (P = 0.007) and insulin (P = 0.09) showed a quadratic increase, while total essential amino acid (P < 0.0001) concentrations increased linearly with the graded intake of the protein supplement. Activation of mTOR (P = 0.02) and its downstream target, rpS6 (P = 0.0008), increased quadratically and linearly in relation to the level of protein intake, respectively. Comparisons of individual doses showed no differences (P > 0.05) between the 0.25 and 0.5 g of protein intake for either mTOR or rpS6 activation, indicating that protein synthesis may have reached near maximal capacity around 0.25 g CP/kg BW. This is the first study to show that the activation of muscle protein synthetic pathways in horses is dose-dependent on the level of protein intake. Consumption of a moderate dose of high-quality protein resulted in near maximal muscle mTOR pathway activation in mature, sedentary horses.
Giant benign teratoma occupying the left hemithorax with pleural effusion: a rare presentation
Authors: Bellido-Yarlequé David , Meza Kelly , Palacios José , Cervera Jorge , Anicama Fernando
Published: August 2020

Mature teratomas are the third most common mediastinal tumors. Giant teratoma in pediatric population is rare. A resection of giant benign teratoma in left hemithorax was performed in a 4-year-old patient. The computed tomography scan showed the presence of a large multiloculated mediastinal mass extending to the left pleural space and pleural effusion. The patient underwent total resection of the mediastinal mass via a median sternotomy associated to left anterior thoracotomy. Entry into the pleural space was performed through the sixth intercostal space to obtain safe visualization of the cavity and proceed to tumor excision. The collapsed left lung was re-expanded, and the patient was extubated. Despite the size and the surrounding structures of the teratoma, our preoperative preparation and surgical technique were effective and resulted in favorable recovery without complications and a posterior normal left lung function.
Projecting Local Survey Response in a Changing Demographic Landscape: A Case Study of the Census in New York City
Authors: Jacoby Annette , Lobo Arun Peter , Salvo Joseph J
Published: August 2020

Low rates of survey response are a problem that survey organizations increasingly experience across the world. Understanding local socio-demographic reasons for low response, and projecting future response, can inform targeted outreach and messaging to communities. Using the US Census as a case study, we study mail response behavior both cross-sectionally and over time. The cross-sectional part of this study (2010) helps inform the selection of explanatory variables for a two-panel difference model (2000–2010). In turn, the two-panel difference model offers an in-depth understanding of which demographic indicators shape response across time. Increases in response between 2000 and 2010 were found to be associated with growth in the elderly and in the Dominican populations, while growth in blacks, renters, and those with low educational attainment were associated with decreases in response. Coefficients from the two-panel difference model are then applied to demographic changes from 2008–2012 to 2013–2017, to project response rates for the most recent period. While much of our findings are in line with prior survey research, we demonstrate the importance of projecting response behavior using a local perspective, as national-level results do not always apply to smaller jurisdictions. In a diverse country such as the United States, a hyper-diverse city such as New York often carves its own path. To our knowledge, this is the first paper that connects shifts in socio-demographic neighborhood characteristics with changes in response rates. As racial and ethnic diversity increases in cities across western societies, our methodology allows jurisdictions to project response rates using shifts in socio-demographic neighborhood characteristics that are tied to self-response. Such a tailored approach can be replicated across different kinds of surveys, countries, and time points, which will allow for the identification of local factors that drive changes in survey response and help establish a precisely customized outreach plan.
NBS1 interacts with Notch signaling in neuronal homeostasis
Authors: Zhou Zhong-Wei , Kirtay Murat , Schneble Nadine , Yakoub George , Ding Mingmei , Rüdiger Tina , Siniuk Kanstantsin , Lu Ruiqing , Jiang Yi-Nan , Li Tang-Liang , Kaether Christoph , Barzilai Ari , Wang Zhao-Qi
Published: August 2020

NBS1 is a critical component of the MRN (MRE11/RAD50/NBS1) complex, which regulates ATM- and ATR-mediated DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Mutations in NBS1 cause the human genomic instability syndrome Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome (NBS), of which neuronal deficits, including microcephaly and intellectual disability, are classical hallmarks. Given its function in the DDR to ensure proper proliferation and prevent death of replicating cells, NBS1 is essential for life. Here we show that, unexpectedly, Nbs1 deletion is dispensable for postmitotic neurons, but compromises their arborization and migration due to dysregulated Notch signaling. We find that Nbs1 interacts with NICD-RBPJ, the effector of Notch signaling, and inhibits Notch activity. Genetic ablation or pharmaceutical inhibition of Notch signaling rescues the maturation and migration defects of Nbs1-deficient neurons in vitro and in vivo. Upregulation of Notch by Nbs1 deletion is independent of the key DDR downstream effector p53 and inactivation of each MRN component produces a different pattern of Notch activity and distinct neuronal defects. These data indicate that neuronal defects and aberrant Notch activity in Nbs1-deficient cells are unlikely to be a direct consequence of loss of MRN-mediated DDR function. This study discloses a novel function of NBS1 in crosstalk with the Notch pathway in neuron development.