bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical outcomes of a fenestrated frozen elephant trunk technique for acute type A aortic dissection
Authors: Okamura Homare , Kitada Yuichiro , Miyagawa Atsushi , Arakawa Mamoru , Adachi Hideo
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the outcomes of a fenestrated frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique performed without reconstruction of one or more supra-aortic vessels for aortic repair in patients with acute type A aortic dissection.

METHODS

We investigated 22 patients who underwent the fenestrated FET technique for acute type A aortic dissection at our hospital between December 2017 and April 2020. The most common symptom was chest pain and/or back pain. Nine patients presented with malperfusion and 1 with cardiac arrest, preoperatively. A FET was deployed under hypothermic circulatory arrest and manually fenestrated under direct vision. Single fenestration was made in the FET in 15 patients, 2 fenestrations in 5 patients and a total fenestrated technique in 2 patients. Concomitant procedures were performed in 5 patients.

RESULTS

The cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic cross-clamp and hypothermic circulatory arrest times were 181 ± 49, 106 ± 43 and 37 ± 7 min, respectively. In-hospital mortality, stroke, or recurrent nerve injury did not occur in any patient. One patient developed paraparesis, which completely recovered at discharge. During the follow-up period (mean 18 ± 7 months), 1 patient died of heart failure. Fenestration site occlusion did not occur. Follow-up computed tomography (mean 12 ± 6 months postoperatively) revealed that the maximal aortic diameter remained unchanged at the levels of the distal end of the FET, the 10th thoracic vertebra and the coeliac artery; however, the aortic diameter was significantly reduced at the level of the pulmonary artery bifurcation.

CONCLUSIONS

The fenestrated FET technique is a simple, safe and effective procedure for selected patients with acute type A aortic dissection.
Serovar-dependent differences in Hfq-regulated phenotypes inActinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Crispim Josicelli Souza , da Silva Thyara Ferreira , Sanches Newton Moreno , da Silva Giarlã Cunha , Pereira Monalessa Fábia , Rossi Ciro César , Li Yanwen , Terra Vanessa Sofia , Vohra Prerna , Wren Brendan W , Langford Paul R , Bossé Janine T , Bazzolli Denise Mara Soares
Published: October 2020

The RNA chaperone Hfq regulates diverse processes in numerous bacteria. In this study, we compared phenotypes (growth rate, adherence, response to different stress conditions and virulence in Galleria mellonella) of wild-type (WT) and isogenic hfq mutants of three serovars (1, 8 and 15) of the porcine pathogen Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Similar growth in rich broth was seen for all strains except Ap1∆hfq, which showed slightly reduced growth throughout the 24 h time course, and the complemented Ap8∆hfqC mutant had a prolonged lag phase. Differences were seen between the three serovar WT strains regarding adherence, stress response and virulence in G. mellonella, and deletion of hfq affected some, but not all of these phenotypes, depending on serovar. Complementation by expression of cloned hfq from an endogenous promoter only restored some WT phenotypes, indicating that complex regulatory networks may be involved, and that levels of Hfq may be as important as presence/absence of the protein regarding its contribution to gene regulation. Our results support that Hfq is a pleiotropic global regulator in A. pleuropneumoniae, but serovar-related differences exist. These results highlight the importance of testing multiple strains/serovars within a given species when determining contributions of global regulators, such as Hfq, to expression of complex phenotypes.
Complex conductivity signatures of microbial induced calcite precipitation, field and laboratory scales
Authors: Saneiyan Sina , Ntarlagiannis Dimitrios , Colwell Frederick
Published: October 2020

Soil stabilization processes aim at enhancing soil's engineering properties. Although the concept is straightforward, it involves physical and chemical changes to the subsurface that could result in local environmental changes. Compared to conventional soil stabilization methods (such as cement grouting), bio-mediated soil stabilization, such as microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP), offers the opportunity to minimize environmental impact, but the underlying processes need to be well understood for proper applications. Accurate characterization and long-term monitoring are paramount for the success of soil improvement, especially MICP treatments. Spectral induced polarization (SIP), an established geophysical method, has shown to be sensitive to MICP processes and products (e.g. calcite). In this work, we performed a two-phase study to explore SIP's suitability as a monitoring tool. Phase 1 involved a laboratory scale MICP study under controlled conditions and phase 2 a pilot field scale study. In the laboratory, MICP was induced through the introduction of ureolytic microorganisms, while in the field, indigenous soil microbes were stimulated to promote ureolysis. In both cases, traditional geochemical monitoring, along with spatiotemporally dense SIP monitoring, were performed. Over the course of the laboratory study, SIP successfully tracked the MICP progress as well as the calcite precipitation behaviour. Similarly, the SIP results of the field scale study showed to be sensitive to the subsurface changes in response to MICP. SIP offered spatiotemporally rich information on the MICP progress and process status. The similarity between observed signal trends in the laboratory and field in this study clearly proved that SIP signals from MICP in controlled laboratory environments can be successfully used to study field MICP applications despite scale and complexity differences.
Centralism, localities and leadership: the politics of the Chinese Socialist Youth League in the early 1920s*
Authors: Yi Shensi
Published: October 2020

This article investigates a dramatic change in the leadership of the Chinese Socialist Youth League in early 1924, following a series of ideological and emotional rivalries between young radicals. It explores how the stepping down of Liu Renjing leader of the Youth League reflected the limits of Moscow’s policy in China, as well as the fragility of both Bolshevik iron discipline and the Leninist organizational norms applied by early Chinese communist leaders. The article further argues that the dynamic intersection between emotions and political rationales ultimately influenced how global communism was localized in China in the early 1920s.
Predicted shifts of groundfish distribution in the Eastern Bering Sea under climate change, with implications for fish populations and fisheries management
Authors: Rooper Christopher N , Ortiz Ivonne , Hermann Albert J , Laman Ned , Cheng Wei , Kearney Kelly , Aydin Kerim
Published: October 2020

Climate-related distribution shifts for marine species are, in general, amplified in northern latitudes. The objective of this study was to predict future distributions of commercially important species in the eastern Bering Sea under six climate scenarios, by incorporating predictions of future oceanographic conditions. We used species distribution modelling to determine potential distribution changes in four time periods (2013–2017, 2030–2039, 2060–2069, and 2090-2099) relative to 1982–2012 for 16 marine fish and invertebrates. Most species were predicted to have significant shifts in the centre of gravity of the predicted abundance, the area occupied, and the proportion of the predicted abundance found in the standard bottom trawl survey area. On average the shifts were modest, averaging 35.2 km (ranging from 1 to 202 km). There were significant differences in the predicted trend for distribution metrics among climate scenarios, with the most extensive changes in distribution resulting from Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 climate scenarios. The variability in distributional shifts among years and climate scenarios was high, although the magnitudes were low. This study provides a basis for understanding where fish populations might expand or contract in future years. This will provide managers’ information that can help guide appropriate actions under warming conditions.
Mutant RNA polymerase can reduce susceptibility to antibiotics via ppGpp-independent induction of a stringent-like response
Authors: Brandis Gerrit , Granström Susanna , Leber Anna T , Bartke Katrin , Garoff Linnéa , Cao Sha , Huseby Douglas L , Hughes Diarmaid
Published: October 2020

Background

Mutations in RNA polymerase (RNAP) can reduce susceptibility to ciprofloxacin in Escherichia coli, but the mechanism of transcriptional reprogramming responsible is unknown. Strains carrying ciprofloxacin-resistant (CipR) rpoB mutations have reduced growth fitness and their impact on clinical resistance development is unclear.

Objectives

To assess the potential for CipRrpoB mutations to contribute to resistance development by estimating the number of distinct alleles. To identify fitness-compensatory mutations that ameliorate the fitness costs of CipRrpoB mutations. To understand how CipRrpoB mutations reprogramme RNAP.

Methods

E. coli strains carrying five different CipRrpoB alleles were evolved with selection for improved fitness and characterized for acquired mutations, relative fitness and MICCip. The effects of dksA mutations and a ppGpp0 background on growth and susceptibility phenotypes associated with CipRrpoB alleles were determined.

Results

The number of distinct CipRrpoB mutations was estimated to be >100. Mutations in RNAP genes and in dksA can compensate for the fitness cost of CipRrpoB mutations. Deletion of dksA reduced the MICCip for strains carrying CipRrpoB alleles. A ppGpp0 phenotype had no effect on drug susceptibility.

Conclusions

CipRrpoB mutations induce an ppGpp-independent stringent-like response. Approximately half of the reduction in ciprofloxacin susceptibility is caused by an increased affinity of RNAP to DksA while the other half is independent of DksA. Stringent-like response activating mutations might be the most diverse class of mutations reducing susceptibility to antibiotics.
Exploring Transitional Justice’s Impact Pathways on Gender Justice: Trends in Sexual and Gender-Based Violence against Women from Thirteen African Cases
Authors: Rubin Maxine
Published: October 2020

The main element of gender justice addressed in transitional justice processes has been sexual and gender-based violence against women (SGBVAW). This article explores if particular dimensions (core characteristics) of transitional justice processes are more likely to positively contribute toward measures taken by the state to address SGBVAW outcomes. Empirical evidence from 13 African cases suggested that transitional justice processes that had autonomous, gender-hinclusive, and reparative dimensions were more likely to see positive SGBVAW outcomes. Pending further research, the results suggest that using these dimensions of transitional justice to unpack the impact pathways of transitional justice helps to clarify the ways that transitional justice can benefit societies. The findings also suggest that impact pathways between transitional justice and SGBVAW outcomes exist, but the nature of these pathways is varied and often indirect.
Legal Reasoning for Legitimation of Child Marriage in West Java: Accommodation of Local Norms at Islamic Courts and the Paradox of Child Protection
Authors: Horii Hoko
Published: October 2020

This article discusses challenges posed by the implementation of international human rights law through the case of child marriage in Indonesia. Supporting data consist mostly of court decisions and interviews with judges carried out at three separate Islamic courts in West Java. Results show that the Indonesian pluralistic legal system is structurally organized so as to accommodate human rights norms with religious concerns and customary practices, which therefore provides judges with significant leeway in arbitrating between different types of law, which conflict on the question of child marriage. Left at the discretion of judges, rulings on child marriage cases may result in religious or customary law being favoured over state and international law. Judges do so to ‘protect children’ from social stigma, which is associated with pregnancy and sexual intercourse out of wedlock.
Human-modified landscapes alter home range and movement patterns of capybaras
Authors: Lopes Beatriz , McEvoy John F , Morato Ronaldo Gonçalves , Luz Hermes R , Costa Francisco B , Benatti Hector Ribeiro , Dias Thiago da Costa , Rocha Vlamir José , Ramos Vanessa do Nascimento , Piovezan Ubiratan , Monticelli Patricia Ferreira , Nievas Ana Maria , Pacheco Richard Campos , Moro Maria Estela Gaglianone , Brasil Jardel , Leimgruber Peter , Labruna Marcelo B , Ferraz Katia Maria Paschoaletto Micchi de Barros
Published: October 2020

The expansion of human activity forces species to co-exist with people in human-modified landscapes (HMLs). However, living in HMLs demands behavioral adaptations, and the proximity between wildlife and people heightens human–wildlife conflicts. Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is a thriving rodent species in HMLs in Brazil and as such, is involved in human–wildlife conflicts, such as vehicle collisions and transmission of Brazilian spotted fever (BSF). Despite their public importance, the effects of HMLs on capybara movement behavior have never been investigated. Our study aimed to investigate changes in home range, ranging pattern, and activity, for capybaras in six HMLs and two natural landscapes (NLs) by monitoring capybaras with GPS collars. We found home ranges 2.43 times greater in NLs than in HMLs and differences in ranging pattern in HMLs. Capybaras tended to be more nocturnal and move shorter distances across HMLs than NLs. Our results confirm the impacts of the HMLs altering capybara movement. The aggregation of capybaras in very small home ranges might imply on greater risks of tick infestations. In addition, capybara–vehicle collision may be increased during capybaras’ nocturnal activity. Therefore, we recommend that transportation agencies avoid the construction of transportation infrastructures (roads, railways, airstrips) in capybaras’ home ranges, which should be of restricted access to people in BSF endemic areas.
ID/HIV Physician Ambassadors: Advancing Policy to Improve Health
Authors: Brito Maximo O , Dugdale Caitlin M , Collins-Ogle Michelle , Snowden Jessica , Wheeler David A
Published: October 2020

ID/HIV physicians and other healthcare professionals advocate within the healthcare system to ensure adults and children receive effective treatment. These advocacy skills can be used to inform domestic and global infectious disease policies to improve healthcare systems and public health. ID/HIV physicians have a unique frontline perspective to share with federal policymakers regarding how programs and policies benefit patients and public health. Providing this input is critical to the enactment of legislation that will maximize the response to infectious diseases. This article discusses the advocacy of ID/HIV physicians and other healthcare professionals in federal health policy. Key issues include funding for ID/HIV programs; the protection of public health and access to health care; improving research opportunities; and advancing the field of ID/HIV, including supporting the next generation of ID/HIV clinicians. The article also describes best practices for advocacy and provides case studies illustrating the impact of ID/HIV physician advocacy.
Harvesting left internal thoracic artery via clamshell incision for coronary bypass and lung transplant
Authors: Haddad Osama , Jacob Samuel , Pham Anthony , Sareyyupoglu Basar , Dye Kenneth , Pham Si Mai
Published: October 2020

Concomitant lung transplantation and coronary artery bypass grafting operation became more prevalent over the last decade due to the advanced age of recipients. Median sternotomy approach is traditionally used when internal thoracic artery is utilized. Here we report a technique of harvesting the left internal thoracic artery via a clamshell incision for a combined coronary artery bypass and bilateral lung transplant operation in a 71-year-old male with terminal respiratory failure and coronary artery disease.
The chemical properties of the Milky Way’s on-bar and off-bar regions: evidence for inhomogeneous star formation history in the bulge
Authors: Lian Jianhui , Zasowski Gail , Hasselquist Sten , Neumann Justus , Majewski Steven R , Cohen Roger E , Fernández-Trincado José G , Lane Richard R , Longa-Peña Penélope , Roman-Lopes Alexandre
Published: October 2020

Numerous studies of integrated starlight, stellar counts, and kinematics have confirmed that the Milky Way is a barred galaxy. However, far fewer studies have investigated the bar’s stellar population properties, which carry valuable independent information regarding the bar’s formation history. Here, we conduct a detailed analysis of chemical abundance distributions ([Fe/H] and [Mg/Fe]) in the on-bar and off-bar regions to study the azimuthal variation of star formation history (SFH) in the inner Galaxy. We find that the on-bar and off-bar stars at Galactocentric radii 3 kpc < rGC < 5 kpc have remarkably consistent [Fe/H] and [Mg/Fe] distribution functions and [Mg/Fe]–[Fe/H] relation, suggesting a common SFH shared by the long bar and the disc. In contrast, the bar and disc at smaller radii (2 kpc < rGC < 3 kpc) show noticeable differences, with relatively more very metal-rich ($\rm [Fe/H] \sim 0.4$) stars but fewer solar abundance stars in the bar. Given the three-phase star formation history proposed for the inner Galaxy in Lian et al., these differences could be explained by the off-bar disc having experienced either a faster early quenching process or recent metal-poor gas accretion. Vertical variations of the abundance distributions at small rGC suggest a wider vertical distribution of low-α stars in the bar, which may serve as chemical evidence for vertical heating through the bar buckling process. The lack of such vertical variations outside the bulge may then suggest a lack of vertical heating in the long bar.
Jet propagation in expanding medium for gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Hamidani Hamid , Ioka Kunihito
Published: October 2020

The binary neutron star (BNS) merger event GW170817 clearly shows that a BNS merger launches a short gamma-ray burst (sGRB) jet. Unlike collapsars, where the ambient medium is static, in BNS mergers the jet propagates through the merger ejecta that is expanding outward at substantial velocities (∼0.2c). Here, we present semi-analytical and analytical models to solve the propagation of GRB jets through their surrounding media. These models improve our previous model by including the jet collimation by the cocoon self-consistently. We also perform a series of 2D numerical simulations of jet propagation in BNS mergers and in collapsars to test our models. Our models are consistent with numerical simulations in every aspect (the jet head radius, the cocoon’s lateral width, the jet opening angle including collimation, the cocoon pressure, and the jet–cocoon morphology). The energy composition of the cocoon is found to be different depending on whether the ambient medium is expanding or not; in the case of BNS merger jets, the cocoon energy is dominated by kinetic energy, while it is dominated by internal energy in collapsars. Our model will be useful for estimating electromagnetic counterparts to gravitational waves.
Retrieval of energy spectra for all flavours of neutrinos from core-collapse supernova with multiple detectors
Authors: Nagakura Hiroki
Published: October 2020

We present a new method by which to retrieve energy spectrum for all falvours of neutrinos from core-collapse supernova (CCSN). In the retrieval process, we do not assume any analytic formulas to express the energy spectrum of neutrinos but rather take a direct way of spectrum reconstruction from the observed data; the singular value decomposition algorithm with a newly developed adaptive energy-gridding technique is adopted. We employ three independent reaction channels having different flavour sensitivity to neutrinos. Two reaction channels, inverse beta decay on proton and elastic scattering on electrons, from a water Cherenkov detector such as Super-Kamiokande (SK) and Hyper-Kamiokande (HK), and a charged current reaction channel with Argon from the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) are adopted. Given neutrino oscillation models, we iteratively search the neutrino energy spectra at the CCSN source until they provide the consistent event counts in the three reaction channels. We test the capability of our method by demonstrating the spectrum retrieval to a theoretical neutrino data computed by our recent three-dimensional CCSN simulation. Although the energy spectrum with either electron-type or electron-type antineutrinos at the CCSN source has relatively large error compared to that of other species, the joint analysis with HK + DUNE or SK + DUNE will provide precise energy spectrum of all flavours of neutrinos at the source. Finally, we discuss perspectives for improvements of our method by using neutrino data of other detectors.
Rfam 14: expanded coverage of metagenomic, viral and microRNA families
Authors: Kalvari Ioanna , Nawrocki Eric P , Ontiveros-Palacios Nancy , Argasinska Joanna , Lamkiewicz Kevin , Marz Manja , Griffiths-Jones Sam , Toffano-Nioche Claire , Gautheret Daniel , Weinberg Zasha , Rivas Elena , Eddy Sean R , Finn Robert D , Bateman Alex , Petrov Anton I
Published: October 2020

Rfam is a database of RNA families where each of the 3444 families is represented by a multiple sequence alignment of known RNA sequences and a covariance model that can be used to search for additional members of the family. Recent developments have involved expert collaborations to improve the quality and coverage of Rfam data, focusing on microRNAs, viral and bacterial RNAs. We have completed the first phase of synchronising microRNA families in Rfam and miRBase, creating 356 new Rfam families and updating 40. We established a procedure for comprehensive annotation of viral RNA families starting with Flavivirus and Coronaviridae RNAs. We have also increased the coverage of bacterial and metagenome-based RNA families from the ZWD database. These developments have enabled a significant growth of the database, with the addition of 759 new families in Rfam 14. To facilitate further community contribution to Rfam, expert users are now able to build and submit new families using the newly developed Rfam Cloud family curation system. New Rfam website features include a new sequence similarity search powered by RNAcentral, as well as search and visualisation of families with pseudoknots. Rfam is freely available at https://rfam.org.
Cryo-EM structure of the highly atypical cytoplasmic ribosome of Euglena gracilis
Authors: Matzov Donna , Taoka Masato , Nobe Yuko , Yamauchi Yoshio , Halfon Yehuda , Asis Nofar , Zimermann Ella , Rozenberg Haim , Bashan Anat , Bhushan Shashi , Isobe Toshiaki , Gray Michael W , Yonath Ada , Shalev-Benami Moran
Published: October 2020

Ribosomal RNA is the central component of the ribosome, mediating its functional and architectural properties. Here, we report the cryo-EM structure of a highly divergent cytoplasmic ribosome from the single-celled eukaryotic alga Euglena gracilis. The Euglena large ribosomal subunit is distinct in that it contains 14 discrete rRNA fragments that are assembled non-covalently into the canonical ribosome structure. The rRNA is substantially enriched in post-transcriptional modifications that are spread far beyond the catalytic RNA core, contributing to the stabilization of this highly fragmented ribosome species. A unique cluster of five adenosine base methylations is found in an expansion segment adjacent to the protein exit tunnel, such that it is positioned for interaction with the nascent peptide. As well as featuring distinctive rRNA expansion segments, the Euglena ribosome contains four novel ribosomal proteins, localized to the ribosome surface, three of which do not have orthologs in other eukaryotes.
$1/\epsilon$ problem in resurgence
Authors: Sueishi Naohisa
Published: October 2020

This paper considers the $1/\epsilon$ problem, which is the divergent behavior of the ground-state energy of the asymmetric potential in quantum mechanics, which is calculated with semi-classical expansion and the resurgence technique. Using the resolvent method, it is shown that including not only one complex bion but a multi-complex bion and multi-bounce contributions solves this problem. This result indicates the importance of summing all possible saddle-point contributions and also the relationship between the exact Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin approximation and path-integral formalism.
Quantization of the charge in Coulomb plus harmonic potential
Authors: Choun Yoon-Seok , Sin Sang-Jin
Published: October 2020

We consider two models where the wave equation can be reduced to the effective Schrödinger equation whose potential contains both harmonic and the Coulomb terms, $\omega^{2}r^{2}-a/r$. The equation reduces to the biconfluent Heun’s equation, and we find that the charge as well as the energy must be quantized and state-dependent. We also find that two quantum numbers are necessary to count radial degrees of freedom and suggest that this is a general feature of differential equation with higher singularity like the Heun’s equation.
The diagnostic value of GDF-15 for myocardial involvement in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy
Authors: Qiu Mengqian , Sun Xiaoxuan , Qi Xiaoqing , Liu Xianfang , Zhang Yue , Zhang Ning , Lu FengYun , Liu Wangyan , Changjing Feng , Wang Qiang , Zhou Lei
Published: October 2020

Background

Cardiac involvement is a serious complication of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM). GDF-15 can predict the risk and the prognosis of cardiovascular disease, but its value is unclear in IIM.

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic value of GDF-15 for myocardial involvement in IIM.

Methods

A total of 77 IIM patients from May 2018 to August 2020 were included in this retrospective study. Of these, 43 patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) examination. There were 33 SLE patients and 16 healthy people were used as the control group. The concentration of GDF-15 of these groups was measured by ELISA.

Results

There were significant differences in GDF-15 levels in patients with IIM, SLE and healthy controls (H = 45.291, P<0.001). GDF-15 levels were statistically significant different between IIM patients with the myocardial injury [1484.88(809.07 2835.50) pg/ml] and without myocardial injury [593.26(418.61 784.59) pg/ml, P =0.001]. After adjusted for age, renal function, the risk of myocardial injury in IIM patients increased an average of 0.3% by per increased unit of GDF-15 (odds ratio=1.003, 95% CI: 1.000, 1.007). The level of GDF-15 was positively correlated with extra-cellular volume (ECV) (rs = 0.348, P =0.028). GDF-15 ≥ 929.505 pg/ml (area under the curve=0.856, 95% CI: 0.744, 0.968) predicted myocardial injury in IIM with a sensitivity of 0.75 and specificity of 0.90.

Conclusion

GDF-15 could serve as a potential biomarker to predict myocardial injury in IIM patients.
Childhood violence exposure and social deprivation are linked to adolescent threat and reward neural function
Authors: Hein Tyler C , Goetschius Leigh G , McLoyd Vonnie C , Brooks-Gunn Jeanne , McLanahan Sara S , Mitchell Colter , Lopez-Duran Nestor L , Hyde Luke W , Monk Christopher S
Published: October 2020

Background

Childhood adversity is, unfortunately, highly prevalent and strongly associated with later psychopathology. Recent theories posit that two dimensions of early adversity, threat and deprivation, have distinct effects on brain development. The current study evaluated whether violence exposure (threat) and social deprivation (deprivation) were associated with adolescent amygdala and ventral striatum activation, respectively, in a prospective, well-sampled, longitudinal cohort using a pre-registered, open science approach.

Methods

One hundred and sixty-seven adolescents from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study completed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning. Prospective longitudinal data from ages 3, 5 and 9 years were used to create indices of childhood violence exposure and social deprivation. We evaluated whether these dimensions were associated with adolescent brain function in response to threatening and rewarding faces.

Results

Childhood violence exposure was associated with decreased amygdala habituation (i.e. more sustained activation) and activation to angry faces in adolescence, whereas childhood social deprivation was associated with decreased ventral striatum activation to happy faces in adolescence. These associations held when adjusting for the other dimension of adversity (e.g., adjusting for social deprivation when examining associations with violence exposure), the interaction of the two dimensions of adversity, gender, internalizing psychopathology, and current life stress.

Conclusions

Consistent with recent theories, different forms of early adversity were associated with region-specific differences in brain activation.
Successful Treatment of Acanthamoeba Meningoencephalitis in an Immunocompetent Child
Authors: Öcal Demir Sevliya , Besli Gülser Esen , Bucak Abdulmelik , Boral Özden , Baysal Begümhan
Published: October 2020

Acanthamoeba meningoencephalitis is a very rare entity with high mortality rate. Its diagnosis is usually delated, and the optimal approach for its treatment is uncertain. In presented case, early diagnosis was made with direct examination of cerebral spinal fluid, and immediate initiation of accurate treatment with amphotericin B and fluconazole survived patient.
Sixty Years from the First Disease Description, a Novel Badnavirus Associated with Chestnut Mosaic Disease
Authors: Marais Armelle , Murolo Sergio , Faure Chantal , Brans Yoann , Larue Clément , Maclot François , Massart Sébastien , Chiumenti Michela , Minafra Angelantonio , Romanazzi Gianfranco , Lefebvre Marie , Barreneche Teresa , Robin Cécile , Petit Rémy J. , Candresse Thierry
Published: October 2020

Although chestnut mosaic disease (ChMD) was described several decades ago, its etiology is still not clear. Using classical approaches and high-throughput sequencing (HTS) techniques, we identified a novel Badnavirus that is a strong etiological candidate for ChMD. Two disease sources from Italy and France were submitted to HTS-based viral indexing. Total RNAs were extracted, ribodepleted, and sequenced on an Illumina NextSeq500 (2 × 150 nt or 2 × 75 nt). In each source, we identified a single contig of ≈7.2 kb that corresponds to a complete circular viral genome and shares homologies with various badnaviruses. The genomes of the two isolates have an average nucleotide identity of 90.5%, with a typical badnaviral genome organization comprising three open reading frames. Phylogenetic analyses and sequence comparisons showed that this virus is a novel species; we propose the name Chestnut mosaic virus (ChMV). Using a newly developed molecular detection test, we systematically detected the virus in symptomatic graft-inoculated indicator plants (chestnut and American oak) as well in chestnut trees presenting typical ChMD symptoms in the field (100 and 87% in France and Italy surveys, respectively). Datamining of publicly available chestnut sequence read archive transcriptomic data allowed the reconstruction of two additional complete ChMV genomes from two Castanea mollissima sources from the United States as well as ChMV detection in C. dentata from the United States. Preliminary epidemiological studies performed in France and central eastern Italy showed that ChMV has a high incidence in some commercial orchards and low within-orchard genetic diversity.
Original Research: Family Presence During Resuscitation: Medical–Surgical Nurses' Perceptions, Self-Confidence, and Use of Invitations
Authors: Powers Kelly , Reeve Charlie L.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Family presence during resuscitation (FPDR) upholds family-centered care principles and can result in better family member outcomes; yet it isn't routinely implemented by nurses. Prior studies have examined predictors of support for FPDR among nurses caring for high acuity patients, but limited research involves medical–surgical nurses. This is problematic because resuscitation occurs in all inpatient settings.

Purpose:

This study sought to examine the personal, professional, and workplace factors associated with medical–surgical nurses' perceptions, self-confidence, and use of invitations regarding FPDR. It also aimed to explore potential barriers to FPDR and nurses' educational preferences, in order to inform the design of interventions that might improve FPDR implementation in this practice setting.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey design was used to examine which factors are predictors of medical–surgical nurses' FPDR perceptions, self-confidence, and use of invitations. Data on nurses' perceptions of barriers and educational preferences were collected via survey as well.

Results:

The sample of 51 medical–surgical nurses reported overall neutral perceptions of FPDR. Yet 63% had never invited family members to experience resuscitation. The most significant predictor of more favorable perceptions, higher self-confidence, and greater use of invitations was having prior experience with FPDR. Analysis of perceived barriers indicates that these can be addressed through providing nurses with supportive FPDR policies and education. But only 14% of participants reported that their facility or unit had a written FPDR policy and just 16% had ever received any FPDR education.

Conclusions:

FPDR is not commonly practiced on medical–surgical units. Providing medical–surgical nurses with experience, policies, and education is recommended to improve FPDR implementation rates in this practice setting.
Mnemonic to assist in the treatment of NSTE-ACS
Authors: Hussein Mohamed El , Hakkola Jonah
Published: October 2020

Acute care NPs are in an ideal position to diagnose and manage non-ST-segment elevation (NSTE)-acute coronary syndrome (ACS) by implementing guideline-driven medical interventions. Utilizing mnemonics improves efficiency of clinicians in practice. This article introduces a mnemonic to assist NPs in their response to patients with NSTE-ACS.
Clinical Characteristics and Surgical Outcomes of Congenital Ulnar-deviated Thumbs: Delta Triphalangeal Thumbs and Irregular Epiphyses
Authors: Han Bingqiang , Shen Kaiying , Wang Zhigang , Xu Yunlan
Published: October 2020

Background:

Delta triphalangeal thumbs (DTPT) and irregular epiphysis thumbs (IET) had different anatomic deformities. Our primary purpose was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of surgical treatment in DTPT and IET.

Methods:

In total, 43 ulnar-deviated thumbs were included and categorized into 2 types according to x-ray and exploration during surgery, DTPT and IET. Surgical excision of the delta phalanx in DTPT and intraepiphysis osteotomy in IET was conducted.

Results:

In total, 23 ulnar-deviated thumbs were classified as DTPT and 20 as IET. Ten thumbs that could not be classified initially were followed-up until they could be categorized at the mean age of 24 months. The preoperative mean degrees of ulnar deviation at the interphalangeal joints were 40 and 33 degrees, in DTPT and IET, respectively. The mean degrees were 2 and 5 degrees in final follow-up, showing significant improvement (DTPT, P<0.05; IET, P<0.05). Complications during the study included residual ulnar deviation, overcorrection, and nonunion. The stability and range of movement at the interphalangeal joint were good overall. According to the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand scoring system, results were excellent in 29 cases, good in 13, and fair in 1.

Conclusions:

Ulnar clinodactyly of the thumb occurs because of different anatomic features such as DTPT or IET. We recommend surgical treatment be postponed until the anatomic abnormality can be ascertained. Furthermore, almost all patients with ulnar-deviated thumbs had significant improvement in clinical and radiographic outcomes after surgery.
Negative correlation of high serum bilirubin with cancer development in adults without hepatobiliary disease
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuki , Ikeya Takashi , Okuyama Shuhei , Okamoto Takeshi , Fukuda Katsuyuki , Kobayashi Daiki
Published: October 2020

Background and aims

This study aimed to evaluate whether serum bilirubin levels were associated with cancer development in a population without liver disease.

Methods

A retrospective longitudinal study was performed by including participants who underwent a health checkup at St. Luke’s International Hospital in Tokyo from 2005 to 2019. We excluded those with liver diseases or prior history of cancer at baseline. All participants were classified into four groups according to their total bilirubin (T-Bil) level: very low (<0.5 mg/dl), low (≥0.5 mg/dl, <1.0 mg/dl), intermediate (≥1.0 mg/dl, <1.5 mg/dl), and high (≥1.5 mg/dl). Our primary outcome was to observe cancer development. This study received IRB approval (19-R041).

Results

A total of 77 855 patients were included. During a median follow-up of 1751 days, 5110 participants developed some type of cancer during the study period. Compared to the very-low group, odds ratio (OR) for developing any type of cancer in a concentration-dependent manner decreased as the T-Bil category shifted to higher groups: OR 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79–1.01 for low group; OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.71–0.94 for intermediate group, and OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65–0.99 for high group. In terms of secondary outcome, neoplasms of the female genital organs showed the same trend; OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.93 for low group; OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.44–0.92 for intermediate group, and OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.24–1.09 for high group.

Conclusion

Increased serum bilirubin negatively correlated with cancer development in a concentration-dependent manner, especially for neoplasms of the female genital organs.
High VISTA Expression Correlates With a Favorable Prognosis in Patients With Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zong Liju , Yu Shuangni , Mo Shengwei , Zhou Yuncan , Xiang Yang , Lu Zhaohui , Chen Jie
Published: October 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy worldwide. The novel immune checkpoint V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) has emerged as a promising target for cancer treatment; however, the prognostic significance of its expression in CRC remains unknown. In this study, immunohistochemical staining was used to investigate VISTA expression in tissue microarrays from 1434 patients with stage I–III CRC (816 in the exploratory cohort and 618 in the validation cohort). VISTA protein was evaluated separately in tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (ICs). The associations between VISTA expression, mismatch repair (MMR) status, and clinicopathologic parameters were analyzed, as was the effect of VISTA on survival. High VISTA expression on ICs (ie, ≥5% staining) was more frequent in patients with N0 stage, T1–2 stage, low tumor grade, high CD8 density, and MMR-deficient tumors, and was positively associated with prolonged survival in patients with CRC. High VISTA expression was a significant predictor of prolonged survival independent of clinicopathologic parameters and MMR status. Overall, our results indicate that high VISTA expression on tumor-infiltrating ICs correlates with early tumor stage, MMR deficiency, and a favorable prognosis in patients with CRC. This ought to be considered in future trials of VISTA-modulating immunotherapy for patients with CRC.
Keep Them in the Game: Screening for Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes in Aging Athletes
Authors: Jordre Becca D. , Brisk Brody W. , Schweinle William E.
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

This observational cross-sectional study of aging athletes aims to (1) compare the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes in aging athletes to the general population, (2) describe anthropometric values of aging athletes, (3) investigate the influence of cardiovascular sport competition on these measures, and (4) address any predictive value of evaluated measures.

Methods:

Health and sport history, blood pressure, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio, and body mass index (BMI) were collected on 2351 aging athletes.

Results:

Aging athletes showed a significantly lower prevalence of CVD and diabetes than the general population. Athletes demonstrated BMI in the overweight range, WC in a healthy range, and waist-to-hip ratio in a healthy range for women but just over risk thresholds for men. Average blood pressure was near stage 1 hypertension. Waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio were superior predictors of disease in the population. Cardiovascular athletes showed a lower disease risk and overall superior anthropometric values than other aging athletes.

Conclusion:

Aging athletes demonstrate a relatively low prevalence of CVD and diabetes despite demonstrating some anthropometric measurements over risk thresholds. Measures of central adiposity seem best for predicting disease in this population.
High-Intensity Interval Training for Adults With Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: Bosch Pamela Rogers , Holzapfel Simon D. , Nordin Kali , Ojameruaye Ochuko , Zubriski Mark , Angadi Siddhartha S.
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

This study was conducted to assess the feasibility of twice weekly treadmill high-intensity interval training (HIIT) after stroke; to measure cardiorespiratory (CR) changes and assess predictors of CR change and the validity of existing age-predicted maximal heart rate (AP-HRmax) equations to dose HIIT; and to determine the effect of HIIT on functional measures.

Methods:

Seventeen adults ≥6 months poststroke participated in twice-weekly, supervised HIIT plus 30-minute home walking sessions for 10 weeks (n = 10) or served as control participants (CON, n = 7). Feasibility was measured by HIIT attendance (≥90%) and attaining targeted HIIT parameters with no adverse events. Cardiorespiratory response, peak HR, and function were measured before and after intervention. Validity of AP-HRmax equations was assessed.

Results:

Feasibility was supported (99% of training sessions completed, no adverse events, and targeted intensity achieved). V̇o
2peak increased significantly for HIIT, P = .019 and decreased for CON, P = .044. Functional outcomes did not improve for either group. Age-predicted maximal heart rate equations were valid, with poor absolute agreement at baseline and post-test for HIIT (P = .024; P = .003) and CON (P = .012; P = .005).

Conclusions:

Ten weeks of twice-weekly HIIT is feasible post-stroke and increased aerobic capacity, but functional outcomes did not improve. Some existing AP-HRmax equations can be used to formulate HIIT exercise prescription.
Childhood Glaucoma Profile in a Brazilian Tertiary Care Center Using Childhood Glaucoma Research Network Classification
Authors: Lopes Nara L. , Gracitelli Carolina P.B. , Rolim-de-Moura Christiane
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

To apply the Childhood Glaucoma Research Network (CGRN) classification in children from a pediatric glaucoma outpatient clinic in a tertiary Brazilian care center to better understand the prevalence and the demographic and clinical characteristics of each subtype of childhood glaucoma.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study in which medical records were collected from patients assisted in childhood glaucoma’s clinic at the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo from January 2010 to January 2018. The initial diagnosis and new diagnosis according to CGRN classification were collected. In addition, age, sex, visual acuity, and affected eye were recorded.

Results:

From 624 ophthalmic consultations in the clinic, 496 had confirmed diagnosis of childhood glaucoma or glaucoma suspect. Mean age at diagnosis of the entire group was 3.62±4.23 years (range, 0 to 17 y). Two hundred eight-one (56.65%) of all patients were male and 349 patients (81.16%) had bilateral disease. All patients fit 1 of the 7 categories of the new classification. In all, 48.59% of diagnoses were changed upon reclassification. According to CGRN classification, 220 patients (44.35%) had primary glaucoma (juvenile open-angle glaucoma and primary congenital glaucoma); 210 patients (42.34%) had secondary glaucoma (glaucoma associated with nonacquired ocular anomalies; glaucoma associated with nonacquired systemic disease or syndrome; glaucoma associated with acquired condition; and glaucoma following cataract surgery); and 66 patients (13.31%) were glaucoma suspect. The most common diagnoses found were primary congenital glaucoma with 218 cases (43.95%) and the last common diagnosis was juvenile open-angle glaucoma with 2 cases (0.40%).

Conclusion:

The CGRN classification provides a useful method for classifying childhood glaucoma. A single, standardized classification system is important for diagnosis and management these patients, in addition, may improve physician communication, and future research.
Expanded Scope of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Vaccine Applicability in Disease Prophylaxis, Diagnostics, and Immunotherapeutics
Authors: Adesanya Oluwafolajimi A. , Uche-Orji Christabel I. , Adedeji Yeshua A. , Joshua John I. , Adesola Adeniyi A. , Chukwudike Chibuike J.
Published: October 2020

Following the discovery of the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, its efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis was soon established, with several countries adopting universal BCG vaccination schemes for their populations. Soon, however, studies aimed to further establish the efficacy of the vaccine in different populations discovered that the vaccine has a larger effect in reducing mortality rate than could be explained by its effect on tuberculosis alone, which sparked suggestions that the BCG vaccine could have effects on other unrelated or non-mycobacterial pathogens causing diseases in humans. These effects were termed heterologous, non-specific or off-target effects and have been shown to be due to both innate and adaptive immune system responses. Experiments carried out in a bid to further understand these effects led to many more discoveries about the applicability of the BCG vaccine for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of certain disease conditions. As we approach the second century since the discovery of the vaccine, we believe it is timely to review these interesting applications of the BCG vaccine, such as in the prevention of diabetes, atherosclerosis, and leukemia; the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease; and the treatment of multiple sclerosis, non-muscle invading bladder cancer, and stage III melanoma. Furthermore, complications associated with the administration of the BCG vaccine to certain groups of patients, including those with severe combined immunodeficiency and HIV, have been well described in literature, and we conclude by describing the mechanisms behind these complications and discuss their implications on vaccination strategies, especially in low-resource settings.
Good Sleep Quality and Progressive Increments in Vigilance During Extended Night Shifts
Authors: Lavigne Andrée-Anne , Hébert Marc , Auclair Julie , Laberge Luc
Published: October 2020

Objective:

Assess the change in sleep and vigilance of underground miners during long periods of extended shifts.

Methods:

Seventy miners worked 14 consecutive 12-hour day and/or night shifts. Also, they wore an actigraph and completed a visual analog scale for vigilance four times per shift. Linear regression models with mixed effects were used.

Results:

Sleep efficiency was higher during day shifts than during night shifts (86,5 vs 85.5, P < 0.05) but sleep duration did not differ (6:34 vs 6:44, n.s.). Mean vigilance level at Time 3 (02h00) was significantly lower than that at Time 1 (19h00) during the first 10 night shifts whereas mean vigilance level at Time 4 (05h30) remained significantly lower for the 14 night shifts.

Conclusions:

Underground miners exhibit good sleep quality despite evidence of limited circadian adaptation in terms of nighttime vigilance.