bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flavonoids compounds from Tridax procumbens inhibit osteoclast differentiation by down‐regulating c‐Fos activation
Authors: Al Mamun Md. Abdullah , Asim Md. Muzammal Haque , Sahin Md. Ali Zaber , Al‐Bari Md. Abdul Alim
Published: January 2020

The total flavonoids from Tridax procumbens (TPFs) have been reported significantly to suppress on RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption in mouse primary cultured osteoclasts. However, the effects of ethyl ether fraction of Tridax procumbens flavonoids (TPF) on osteoclastogenesis remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of TPF on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐induced osteoclast differentiation, actin ring formation, and explored its molecular mechanism in vitro. Matured osteoclast was counted as the number of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive multinucleated cells, and activity of osteoclast was assessed by performing the pit formation assays. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was performed for evaluation of the expression of osteoclast differentiation‐related genes. TPF reduced the TRAP‐positive multinucleated osteoclasts, inhibited TRAP and acid phosphatase (ACP) activities and decreased the expression of osteoclast differentiating genes, including cathepsin K, metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2), MMP‐9, MMP‐13 and osteoclast‐associated receptor (OSCAR). Furthermore, osteoclast‐dependent actin rings formation and resorption pits were dramatically inhibited by the treatment with TPF. TPF markedly decreased the expression levels of transcription factors such as c‐Fos, nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) and activator protein‐1 (AP‐1). Taken together, our findings indicated that TPF suppressed both osteoclast differentiation and activities. Therefore, TPF might be a promising and emerging drug candidate for the treatment of bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
Native bighead carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis and silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix populations in the Pearl River are threatened by Yangtze River introductions as revealed by mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Li Chao , Wang Junjie , Chen Jiaqi , Schneider Kevin , Veettil Radhakrishnan K. , Elmer Kathryn R. , Zhao Jun
Published: January 2020

Bighead carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis and silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix have been two economically important aquaculture species in China for centuries. In the past decades, bighead and silver carp have been introduced from the Yangtze River to many river systems in China, including the Pearl River, in annual, large‐scale, stocking activities to enhance wild fisheries. Nonetheless, few studies have assessed the ecological or genetic impacts of such introductions on native conspecific fish populations. An mtDNA D‐loop segment of 978 bp from 213 bighead carp samples from 9 populations and a 975 bp segment from 204 silver carp samples from 10 populations were obtained to evaluate genetic diversity and population integrity. Results from a haplotype network analysis revealed that most haplotypes of the Pearl River clustered with those of Yangtze River origin and only a small proportion were distinct, suggesting that both the native Pearl River bighead and silver carp populations are currently dominated by genetic material from the Yangtze River. The genetic diversity of Pearl River populations is high in both species because of this inter‐population gene flow, but the diversity of native Pearl River populations is low. To preserve the native genetic diversity, stocking of non‐native fingerlings should cease immediately and native Pearl River bighead and silver carp fish farms should be established. This research demonstrates the danger to native biodiversity across China because of the substantial, ongoing stock‐enhancement activities without prior genetic assessment.
Soft tissue distribution pattern of facial soft tissue fillers with different viscoelastic properties
Authors: Rosamilia Gianna , Hamade Hassan , Freytag David L. , Frank Konstantin , Green Jeremy B. , Devineni Aditya , Gavril Diana L. , Hernandez Claudia A. , Pavicic Tatjana , Cotofana Sebastian
Published: January 2020

Background

Soft tissue filler product distribution and tissue integration have been shown to depend on myriad factors including the injector type, injector size, and injection angle.

Aim

This study aims to investigate the magnitude of product spread across fascial soft tissue layers in relation to product viscoelastic properties.

Patients/Methods

A total of 168 injection procedures were conducted in two female Caucasian body donors with a mean age of 80 years (range: 79‐81) and a mean body mass index of 23.6 kg/m2 (range: 21.0‐26.6). The injection procedures were performed in the forehead, scalp, zygomatic arch, mandible, clavicle, and sternum. The injected materials included Belotero® Soft, Belotero® Balance, Belotero® Intense, Belotero® Volume, Radiesse®, and Radiesse® Plus. Layer‐by‐layer dissections were performed to investigate the vertical distribution of the injected product.

Results

The mean product spread was for Belotero® Soft 4.54 ± 0.91; Belotero® Balance 3.85 ± 1.19; Belotero® Intense 3.04 ± 1.34; Belotero® Volume 2.58 ± 1.27; Radiesse® 1.31 ± 0.47; and Radiesse® Plus 1.27 ± 0.45 with P < .001. Bivariate correlations between product spread and storage modulus (G’) revealed an inverse relationship of moderate strength with rp = −0.651 and P < .001.

Conclusion

The results of the present study revealed that products that were more fluid and less viscous distributed into more superficial fascial layers than products that were less fluid and more viscous (P < .001). This relationship held true irrespective of injected location.
Gut microbiota and blood metabolomics in weaning multiparous sows: Associations with oestrous
Authors: Xu Kang , Bai Miaomiao , Liu Hongnan , Duan Yehui , Zhou Xihong , Wu Xin , Liao Peng , Li Tiejun , Yin Yulong
Published: January 2020

This study was conducted to detect the potential relationship between changed plasma metabolites, intestinal microbiota and the weaning‐to‐oestrous interval in multiparous sows after weaning. Multiparous sows were allocated to two groups after weaning: the oestrous group (n = 15) with a weaning‐to‐oestrous interval ≤7 days or the anoestrous group (n = 15) with a weaning‐to‐oestrous interval >14 days. The levels of plasma reproductive hormones: oestradiol, follicle‐stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, plasma total protein; blood urea nitrogen; cholesterol; high‐density lipoprotein; and ammonia (NH3) were significantly lower in the anoestrous sows compared with the oestrous sows (p < .05). The plasma metabolomics analysis identified 14 metabolites (lactose, l‐cysteine, cytosine, hydantoin, palmitoleic acid, arachidic acid, linoleic acid methyl ester, α‐ketoglutaric acid, N(ε)‐trimethyllysine, threo‐β‐hydroxyaspartate, 3‐(3‐hydroxyphenyl) propionic acid and others) with lower concentrations and 12 metabolites (noradrenaline, 5‐dihydrocortisone, p‐cresol, 1,4‐cyclohexanedione, 2,3‐dimethylsuccinic acid and others) with higher concentrations in the anoestrous group compared with the oestrous group (p < .05). The 16S rRNA pyrosequencing analysis showed the relative increase in abundance of the Prevotella and the Bacteroides at the genus level in the anoestrous group (p < .05). At the phylum level, lower proportions of Firmicutes and Lentisphaerae were observed in the anoestrous group (p < .05). This study provided a comprehensive assessment of metabolic differences in the blood and differences in the gut microbiome composition between anoestrous and oestrous sows. And suggesting that this profiling approach may offer new insights into explaining the alteration of the gut microbiota and blood metabolomics are correlated with sex hormone secretion and the weaning‐to‐oestrous interval of sows after weaning.
Share the wealth: Trees with greater ectomycorrhizal species overlap share more carbon
Authors: Rog Ido , Rosenstock Nicholas P. , Körner Christian , Klein Tamir
Published: January 2020

The mutualistic symbiosis between forest trees and ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) is among the most ubiquitous and successful interactions in terrestrial ecosystems. Specific species of EMF are known to colonize specific tree species, benefitting from their carbon source, and in turn, improving their access to soil water and nutrients. EMF also form extensive mycelial networks that can link multiple root‐tips of different trees. Yet the number of tree species connected by such mycelial networks, and the traffic of material across them, are just now under study. Recently we reported substantial belowground carbon transfer between Picea, Pinus, Larix and Fagus trees in a mature forest. Here, we analyze the EMF community of these same individual trees and identify the most likely taxa responsible for the observed carbon transfer. Among the nearly 1,200 EMF root‐tips examined, 50%–70% belong to operational taxonomic units (OTUs) that were associated with three or four tree host species, and 90% of all OTUs were associated with at least two tree species. Sporocarp 13C signals indicated that carbon originating from labelled Picea trees was transferred among trees through EMF networks. Interestingly, phylogenetically more closely related tree species exhibited more similar EMF communities and exchanged more carbon. Our results show that belowground carbon transfer is well orchestrated by the evolution of EMFs and tree symbiosis.
Discourses and critiques of breastfeeding and their implications for midwives and health professionals
Authors: Smyth Dawn , Hyde Abbey
Published: January 2020

This article is a discussion of the recently emerging critique of pro‐breastfeeding discourses in academic literature, and what this means for midwives and other professionals who find themselves promoting breastfeeding because of professional expectations or indeed workplace policies. Various strands in the debate are explored, starting with dominant and familiar ‘evidence’ and descriptions of breastfeeding and breastmilk that are carried through to international policies that advocate breast over formula feeding. We then consider evidence predominantly from social science literature that has found some women's experiences of infant feeding to be at variance with the dominant pro‐breastfeeding ideology. We argue that midwives and others delivering maternity care are the means to deliver the policy aspirations contained in the World Health Organization (WHO, 2018) Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative document that makes selective positive claims about breastfeeding without adequately considering its potential drawbacks. We conclude that although the benefits of breastfeeding tend to be exaggerated in promotional material, on balance the weight of evidence still favours breast over formula feeding. We challenge the charge that breastfeeding jeopardises women's financial position by arguing that it is not breastfeeding per se that impacts negatively on women's economic prospects, but rather the way in which society is socially organised.
The rhythm and rate of distension‐induced esophageal contractility: A physiomarker of esophageal function
Authors: Carlson Dustin A. , Kou Wenjun , Pandolfino John E.
Published: January 2020

Background

Distention of the esophagus elicits a unique pattern of repetitive contractions in healthy controls. We aimed to assess the rhythm and rate of distension‐induced contractile patterns between achalasia and controls and identify factors that distinguish the normal contractile response to distension.

Methods

Twenty asymptomatic controls and 140 adult patients with treatment‐naïve achalasia defined by HRM (29 type I, 81 type II, 30 type III) were prospectively evaluated with functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) during sedated endoscopy. 16‐cm FLIP balloons were positioned within the distal esophagus during stepwise balloon distension. Functional luminal imaging probe panometry studies were retrospectively analyzed using a customized program.

Key results

All controls had contractility in a repetitive antegrade contraction (RAC) pattern with a rate of mean (10‐90th) 6 (4‐8) contractions per minute. 19/20 controls had > 6 consecutive antegrade contractions (ACs), that is, duration > 6 ACs, >6 cm in length, at a rate of 6 ± 3 contractions per minute (met the “Rule‐of‐6s”). 50 achalasia patients had repetitive contractions that occurred at a rates of 11 (7 ‐ 15) ACs per minute; P < .001 compared with controls, or 12 (8‐15) repetitive retrograde contractions per minute. Only 1/140 achalasia patients had a contractile response that met the “Rule‐of‐6s.”

Conclusion

The normal contractile response to sustained distention is associated with > 6 RACs with a consistent rate of 6 ± 3 per minute, which was exceptionally rare in achalasia. These findings support that the RAC pattern is disrupted in achalasia and the faster rate may be a manifestation of abnormal inhibition and/or a reduced refractory period.
ELK‐HEAD STAFFS IN PREHISTORIC NORTH‐EASTERN EUROPE AND NORTH‐WESTERN RUSSIA – SIGNS OF POWER AND PRESTIGE?
Authors: Mantere Ville N. , Kashina Ekaterina A.
Published: January 2020

Around 30 axe‐shaped staffs sculpted as elk heads at the upper end have been found from burials and settlement layers across a widespread area, extending from the Baltic region to the Urals. These enigmatic items made of antler were in use for a considerably long period from the Late Mesolithic to the Early Metal Period, and depictions of elk‐head staffs are also known from Stone Age rock art sites. Using two previously misidentified elk‐head staff fragments from the Stone Age settlements of Zvidze in Latvia and Veretye in Russia as examples, the authors examine the role and function of elk‐head staffs. Special emphasis is put on the fragmentation of the artefacts: the authors point out that elk‐head staffs found in burials have been intact, whereas those found in settlement layers have mostly been deliberately broken and discarded. The authors thus interpret the elk‐head staffs as private items that were closely associated with the undertakings of their owners.
The role of Internet cancer information for older adults with cancer: Perspectives of older adults and healthcare professionals
Authors: Haase Kristen R. , Sattar Schroder , Holtslander Lorraine , Thomas Roanne
Published: January 2020

Objective

Older adults with cancer have unique information and supportive care needs. There is a growing body of literature regarding the use of Internet health information, but less is known about the use of the Internet for cancer information amongst older adults with cancer.

Materials and methods

This is a secondary analysis of qualitative data from a mixed‐methods study of the use of cancer‐related Internet information amongst adults with cancer. In the present study, we include transcripts from two samples: 34 interviews with adults over age 55 (n = 17) with cancer, and interviews and focus groups with healthcare professionals (n = 21). Data were analysed using thematic analysis with an interest in age‐related themes.

Results

Our findings are grouped into three main themes: (a) independently augmenting healthcare services and supports; (b) supporting and situating information; and (c) mobilising family and support networks. Patients and healthcare providers described cancer‐related Internet information as a beneficial resource to address gaps in information and supplement information from healthcare professionals from diagnosis and throughout treatment. Older adults reported using cancer‐related Internet information to manage their cancer experience, although sometimes feeling technologically hesitant. However, healthcare professionals felt older adults were less likely than younger patients to seek cancer information from the Internet.

Conclusion

The use of cancer‐related Internet information is growing amongst older adults with cancer. Older adults mobilise technology uniquely. Healthcare professionals can support these efforts by being aware and through initiating dialogue about information preferences.
Bilateral epidermal nevi in the external auditory canals treated with CO2 laser
Authors: Rajpal Neha , Dilorenzo Ashley , Parsa Keon , Hoa Michael , Ronkainen Sanna
Published: January 2020

Epidermal nevi are benign hamartomas of the epidermis and adnexal structures of the skin. We present the case of epidermal nevi in the bilateral external auditory ear canals of an otherwise healthy 23‐year‐old woman treated with CO2 laser ablation.
Appealing to Moral Exemplars: Shared Perception of Morality as an Essential Ingredient of Intergroup Reconciliation
Authors: Čehajić‐Clancy Sabina , Bilewicz Michal
Published: January 2020

A history of intergroup conflict threatens the basic sense of in‐group and out‐group morality. This poses a severe obstacle to reconciliation both on socioemotional (by constraining forgiveness and generating dysfunctional intergroup emotions) and on instrumental (by constraining contact opportunities and effectiveness) levels. We argue and review research on how learning about others’ moral behavior can contribute to intergroup reconciliation processes. Acknowledging the central role of morality in individual and group perceptions, we propose a new model of reconciliation grounded in research on moral exemplars. Moral exemplars are examples of individual heroic behavior crossing group borders (out‐group members engage in rescuing in‐group members and in‐group members rescuing out‐group members). We demonstrate how intergroup relations in post conflict societies can be improved through learning about moral exemplars. Based on studies and interventions performed in multiple postgenocide and postconflict settings, we suggest that learning about moral exemplars effectively regulates intergroup relations by enabling forgiveness and contact after mass atrocities. We delineate specific policy‐relevant recommendations that may be applied by practitioners working in societies that have been affected by historical crimes.
Material, stigmatic, and agentic dimensions in the experience of claiming disability benefits: The Israeli case
Authors: Holler Roni
Published: January 2020

Little scholarly work has focused on the lived experience of people claiming disability benefits. Drawing on semi‐structured interviews with 30 Jewish‐Israeli men and women with physical impairments, this paper seeks to fill this gap in the literature. Analysis of the interviews yielded three main themes: the material and psycho‐social aspects of the Israeli disability benefits system, respectively, and the coping strategies applied by the participants in their efforts to navigate the system and address their needs. The distinction between the first two themes is discussed as resonating with recent calls for an integrated disability justice conceptualization, one that entails both redistributive and recognitive aspects. The third theme is highlighted as countering the image of ‘passivity’ that is all too often associated with being on disability benefits.
DNA demethylation is involved in the regulation of temperature‐dependent anthocyanin accumulation in peach
Authors: Zhu Yong‐Chao , Zhang Bo , Allan Andrew C. , Lin‐Wang Kui , Zhao Yun , Wang Ke , Chen Kun‐Song , Xu Chang‐Jie
Published: January 2020

Anthocyanin biosynthesis is induced by low temperatures in a number of plants. However, in peach (cv Zhonghuashoutao), anthocyanin accumulation was observed in fruit stored at 16°C but not at or below 12°C. Fruit stored at 16°C showed elevated transcript levels of genes encoding anthocyanin biosynthetic enzymes, the transport protein glutathione S‐transferase and key transcription factors. Higher transcript levels of PpPAL1/2, PpC4H, Pp4CL4/5/8, PpF3H, PpF3’H, PpDFR1/2/3 and PpANS, as well as transcription factor gene PpbHLH3, were associated with lower methylation levels in the promoter of these genes. The DNA methylation level was further highly correlated with the expression of the DNA methyltransferase genes and DNA demethylase genes. The application of DNA methylation inhibitor 5‐azacytidine induced anthocyanin accumulation in peach flesh, further implicating a critical role for DNA demethylation in regulating anthocyanin accumulation in peach flesh. Our data reveal that temperature‐dependent DNA demethylation is a key factor to the post‐harvest temperature‐dependent anthocyanin accumulation in peach flesh.
The CELLEX is comparable to the UVAR‐XTS for the treatment of acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD)
Authors: Afzal Amber , Tarbunova Maryna , Despotis George , Grossman Brenda J.
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Two extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) instruments, the CELLEX and the UVARXTS are currently being used “off‐label” in the US for treatment of graft versus host disease (GVHD). Our study compared the performance of the two instruments in the setting of acute and chronic GVHD.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of patients with steroid refractory or steroid resistant GVHD undergoing ECP at Barnes Jewish Hospital. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the comparative efficacy of the two instruments with respect to steroid dose reduction (≥50% from baseline) and clinical improvement in GVHD. Chi‐square/Fisher exact tests were used to compare the incidence of adverse events, while multivariate Cox regression was employed to assess a potential difference in mortality between the two instrument treatment cohorts.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potential confounders, there was no significant difference in the odds of steroid dose reduction (OR = 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51‐3.90, p = 0.50) or clinical improvement (OR 2.0, 95% CI: 0.63‐6.41, p = 0.24) between the two instrument treatment cohorts. The frequency of adverse events (CELLEX 45.4%; UVAR XTS 40.5%, p = 0.55) was also comparable between the cohorts. There was no significant difference in mortality of either acute or chronic GVHD patients when treated by the CELLEX as compared to the UVAR‐XTS (aHR 0.66, 95% CI: 0.35‐1.25, p = 0.20).

CONCLUSION

The efficacy and safety of the two ECP instruments, the CELLEX and the UVAR‐XTS, are comparable for the treatment of acute and chronic GVHD.
Influence of high affinity haemoglobin on the response to normoxic and hypoxic exercise
Authors: Dominelli Paolo B. , Wiggins Chad C. , Baker Sarah E. , Shepherd John R. A. , Roberts Shelly K. , Roy Tuhin K. , Curry Timothy B. , Hoyer James D. , Oliveira Jennifer L. , Joyner Michael J.
Published: January 2020

Key points

Theoretical models suggest there is no benefit of high affinity haemoglobin to preserve maximal oxygen uptake in acute hypoxia but the comparative biology literature has many examples of species that are evolutionarily adapted to hypoxia and have high affinity haemoglobin.

We studied humans with high affinity haemoglobin and compensatory polycythaemia. These subjects performed maximal exercise tests in normoxia and hypoxia to determine how their altered haemoglobin affinity impacts hypoxic exercise tolerance.

The high affinity haemoglobin participants demonstrated an attenuated decline in maximal aerobic capacity in acute hypoxia.

Those with high affinity haemoglobin had no worsening of pulmonary gas exchange during hypoxic exercise but had greater lactate and lower pH than controls for all exercise bouts.

High affinity haemoglobin and compensatory polycythaemia mitigated the decline in exercise performance in acute hypoxia through a higher arterial oxygen content and an unchanged pulmonary gas exchange.

The longstanding dogma is that humans exhibit an acute reduction in haemoglobin (Hb) binding affinity for oxygen that facilitates adaptation to moderate hypoxia. However, many animals have adapted to high altitude through enhanced Hb binding affinity for oxygen. The objective of the study was to determine whether high affinity haemoglobin (HAH) affects maximal and submaximal exercise capacity. To accomplish this, we recruited individuals (n = 11, n = 8 females) with HAH (P50 = 16 ± 1 mmHg), had them perform normoxic and acute hypoxic (15% inspired oxygen) maximal exercise tests, and then compared their results to matched controls (P50 = 26 ± 1, n = 14, n = 8 females). Cardiorespiratory and arterial blood gases were collected throughout both exercise tests. Despite no difference in end‐exercise arterial oxygen tension in hypoxia (59 ± 6 vs. 59 ± 9 mmHg for controls and HAH, respectively), the HAH subjects’ oxyhaemoglobin saturation () was ∼7% higher. Those with HAH had an attenuated decline in maximal oxygen uptake () (4 ± 5% vs. 12 ± %, p < 0.001) in hypoxia and the change in between trials was related to the change in (r = −0.75, p < 0.0001). Compared to normoxia, the controls’ alveolar‐to‐arterial oxygen gradient significantly increased during hypoxic exercise, whereas pulmonary gas exchange in HAH subjects was unchanged between the two exercise trials. However, arterial lactate was significantly higher and arterial pH significantly lower in the HAH subjects for both exercise trials. We conclude that HAH attenuates the decline in maximal aerobic capacity and preserves pulmonary gas exchange during acute hypoxic exercise. Our data support the comparative biology literature indicating that HAH is a positive adaptation to acute hypoxia.
HfxZr1 − xO2 thin films for semiconductor applications: An Hf- and Zr-ALD precursor comparison
Authors: Materano Monica , Richter Claudia , Mikolajick Thomas , Schroeder Uwe
Published: January 2020

In the last few years, hafnium oxide (HfO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), and their intermixed system (HfxZr1 − xO2) have aroused more and more interest due to their outstanding properties in the frame of semiconductor applications. Different mixtures of these two sister materials, i.e., different Hf:Zr ratios in HfxZr1 − xO2 layers, as well as different crystal arrangements come with a wide set of structural and electrical properties, making this system extremely versatile. Starting from an amorphous layer, the different crystalline phases are easier to be targeted through subsequent thermal treatment. A correct understanding of the deposition process could help in obtaining films showing the addressed material properties for the selected application. In this paper, a comparison of Hf- and Zr-atomic layer deposition precursors is conducted, with the goal of depositing an almost amorphous HfxZr1 − xO2 layer. Material composition is tuned experimentally in order to address the properties that are relevant for the semiconductor industry. The observed trends are examined, and guidelines for applications are suggested.
Sex-Specific Physical Activity Patterns Differentiate Weight Loss Maintainers From Regainers: The MedWeight Study
Authors: Poulimeneas Dimitrios , Maraki Maria I. , Karfopoulou Eleni , Koutras Yannis , Chrysostomou Stavrie , Anastasiou Costas A. , Kavouras Stavros A. , Yannakoulia Mary
Published: January 2020

Background: Although plenty of evidence indicates that weight loss maintainers are highly physically active, studies focusing on the sex-specific differences in activity levels between maintainers and regainers are scarce. The authors aimed to investigate sex-specific differences in activity patterns in a cohort of Mediterranean maintainers and regainers. Methods: Sample includes 756 participants of the MedWeight registry (60.5% women), aged 18–65 years, who lost ≥10% of their initial weight, and either maintained their loss for ≥12 months or regained it. Participants completed a series of questionnaires, including demographics and weight history. Activity levels were evaluated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short version. Results: Maintainers of both sexes were, in total, more active than their same-sex regainers. When specific activities were considered, women maintainers spent more time walking than regainers (Padjusted = .02), whereas men maintainers spent more time in vigorous activities (Padjusted = .001) and walking than regainers (Padjusted = .001). Modest increments in activity of sex-relevant intensity were associated with increased odds for maintenance. Conclusions: Maintainers attained a more active lifestyle than their same-sex regainers, involving more walking for both sexes and more vigorous activities for men. The detected differences, according to activity intensity, support that activity patterns associated with successful weight loss are distinguishable between sexes.
Cooperativity between Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa during Polymicrobial Airway Infections
Authors: McDaniel Melissa S. , Schoeb Trenton , Swords W. Edward
Published: January 2020

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
is a Gram-negative bacterium found ubiquitously in the environment that has historically been regarded as nonpathogenic.
S. maltophilia
is increasingly observed in patient sputa in cystic fibrosis (CF), and while existing epidemiology indicates that patients with
S. maltophilia
have poorer diagnoses, its clinical significance remains unclear. Moreover, as multidrug resistance is common among
S. maltophilia
isolates, treatment options for these infections may be limited.
Typical Stress Granule Proteins Interact with the 3′ Untranslated Region of Enterovirus D68 To Inhibit Viral Replication
Authors: Cheng Jinyan , Gao Shuai , Zhu Cheng , Liu Sihua , Li Jinyu , Kang Jun , Wang Zhiyun , Wang Tao
Published: January 2020

EV-D68 is a serious threat to human health, and there are currently no effective treatments or vaccines. SGs play an important role in cellular innate immunity as a target with antiviral effects. This manuscript describes the formation of SGs induced by EV-D68 early infection but inhibited during the late stage of infection. Moreover, TIA1, HUR, and G3BP1 can chelate a specific site of the 3′ UTR of EV-D68 to inhibit viral replication, and this interaction is sequence and complex dependent. However, this inhibition can be antagonized by overexpression of the minireplicon. These findings increase our understanding of EV-D68 infection and may help identify new antiviral targets that can inhibit viral replication and limit the pathogenesis of EV-D68.
Seroreactive Profiling of Filoviruses in Chinese Bats Reveals Extensive Infection of Diverse Viruses
Authors: Zhang Chang , Wang Zhongyi , Cai Jianqiu , Yan Xiaomin , Zhang Fuqiang , Wu Jianmin , Xu Lin , Zhao Zongzheng , Hu Tingsong , Tu Changchun , He Biao
Published: January 2020

Bats are natural hosts of many FiVs, from which diverse FiVs were serologically or virologically detected in Africa, Europe, and East Asia. Recently, very divergent FiVs were identified in the Chinese bat population, but their antigenic relationship with other known FiVs remains unknown. Here, we conducted serological characterization and investigation of Chinese indigenous FiVs and prototypes of other viruses in bats. Results indicated that Chinese indigenous FiVs are antigenically distant to other FiVs, and infection of novel or multiple FiVs occurred in Chinese bats, with FiV DH04 or an antigenically related one being the most widely and the most highly prevalent. Additionally, besides
Rousettus leschenaultii
and
Eonycteris spelaea
bats, the insectivorous
Myotis horsfieldii
and
M. schreibersii
bats are highly preferential hosts of FiVs. Seroreactive and viral metagenomic results indicated that more as yet unknown bat-borne FiVs circulate in Southern China, and to uncover them further, investigation and timely surveillance is needed.
Elongin C Contributes to RNA Polymerase II Degradation by the Interferon Antagonist NSs of La Crosse Orthobunyavirus
Authors: Schoen Andreas , Lau Simone , Verbruggen Paul , Weber Friedemann
Published: January 2020

The mosquito-borne La Crosse virus (LACV; genus
Orthobunyavirus
, family
Peribunyaviridae
, order
Bunyavirales
) is prevalent in the United States and can cause severe childhood meningoencephalitis. Its main virulence factor, the nonstructural protein NSs, is a strong inhibitor of the antiviral type I interferon (IFN) system. NSs acts by imposing a global host mRNA synthesis shutoff, mediated by NSs-driven proteasomal degradation of the RPB1 subunit of RNA polymerase II. Here, we show that RPB1 degradation commences as early as 1 h postinfection, and identify the E3 ubiquitin ligase subunit Elongin C (and its binding partners Elongins A and B) as an NSs cofactor involved in RPB1 degradation and in suppression of global as well as IFN-related mRNA synthesis.
Identification and Characterization of Novel Compounds with Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Activity against Influenza A and B Viruses
Authors: Park Jun-Gyu , Ávila-Pérez Ginés , Nogales Aitor , Blanco-Lobo Pilar , de la Torre Juan C. , Martínez-Sobrido Luis
Published: January 2020

Influenza viruses are highly contagious pathogens and are a major threat to human health. Vaccination remains the most effective tool to protect humans against influenza infection. However, vaccination does not always guarantee complete protection against drifted or, more noticeably, shifted influenza viruses. Although U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drugs are approved for the treatment of influenza infections, influenza viruses resistant to current FDA antivirals have been reported and continue to emerge. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find novel antivirals for the treatment of influenza viral infections in humans, a search that could be expedited by repurposing currently approved drugs. In this study, we assessed the influenza antiviral activity of 10 compounds previously shown to inhibit mammarenavirus infection. Among them, eight drugs showed antiviral activities, providing a new battery of drugs that could be used for the treatment of influenza infections.
Associations of women’s empowerment with neonatal, infant and under-5 mortality in low- and /middle-income countries: meta-analysis of individual participant data from 59 countries
Authors: Doku David T , Bhutta Zulfiqar A , Neupane Subas
Published: January 2020

Background

Child survival and women’s empowerment are global public health concerns and important sustainable development goals (SDGs). Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have the largest burden of both phenomena. The aim of this study is to investigate a measure of women’s empowerment at individual and population levels and its potential associations with neonatal, infant and under-5 mortality at national and regional levels in 59 LMICs.

Methods

We used pooled population-based cross-sectional surveys from 59 LMICs (n=6 12 529) conducted from 2000 to 2015 using standardised protocols. We constructed individual-level women’s empowerment index (ILWEI) and population-level women’s empowerment index (PLWEI) for LMICs and investigated the potential associations of these measures with neonatal, infant and under-5 mortality using two-stage random-effect individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis.

Results

The pooled neonatal mortality rate was 24 per 1000 live births. Infant and under-5 mortality rates were 43 and 55/1000 live births, respectively. In the pooled sample, 61.6% and 19.9% of women had autonomy regarding their healthcare and household decision-making, respectively, whereas 56.0% rejected domestic violence against women for any reason. IPD meta-analysis showed that children of women with low ILWEI had a higher risk of neonatal (OR: 1.18, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.22), infant (OR: 1.12, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.17) and under-5 (OR: 1.12, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.18) mortality compared with children of high ILWEI. Similar relationships were found across most of the regions as well as between PLWEI and all the three outcomes.

Conclusions

Women’s empowerment at individual and population levels is associated with neonatal, infant and under-5 mortality in LMICs. Our study underscores the importance of women’s empowerment in accelerating progress towards the attainment of the SDG targets for child survival in LMICs. Multi-sectoral and concerted efforts are necessary to eliminate preventable child mortality in these countries.
Retrospective cohort study of the association between maternal employment precarity and infant low birth weight in women in the USA
Authors: Patil Divya , Enquobahrie Daniel A , Peckham Trevor , Seixas Noah , Hajat Anjum
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To investigate the association between maternal employment precarity and infant low birth weight (LBW), and to assess if this association differs by race/ethnicity.

Methods

Data were collected from 2871 women enrolled in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 and the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 Children and Young Adult Cohort. Employment precarity was evaluated using a summary variable that combined several employment attributes: availability of employer-sponsored insurance, income, long shifts, non-daytime shifts, availability of employer sponsored training or educational benefits and membership in a union or collective bargaining unit. Employment precarity scores (a sum of the number of negative employment attributes) were categorised into low (0–2), medium (3) and high (4-6). LBW was defined as weight less than 2500 g at birth. Modified Poisson models were fit to calculate risk ratios and 95% CIs and adjusted for maternal age, race/ethnicity, educational attainment, nativity, prepregnancy body mass index, alcohol consumption, smoking during pregnancy and infant year of birth. We assessed effect modification by maternal race/ethnicity using a composite exposure-race variable.

Results

Women with high employment precarity had higher risk of a LBW delivery compared with women with low employment precarity (RR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.98). Compared to non-Hispanic/non-black women with low employment precarity, non-Hispanic black women (RR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.72 to 4.15), Hispanic women (RR: 2.53; 95% CI: 1.54 to 4.16) and non-Hispanic/non-black women (RR: 1.46; 95% CI: 0.98 to 2.16) with high employment precarity had higher risk of LBW.

Conclusions

We observed higher risk of LBW in pregnancies of women with high employment precarity; this association was stronger among black and Hispanic mothers compared to non-Hispanic/non-black women. Findings of this study can be used to inform antenatal care and identify workplace policies to better support women who work during pregnancy.
Postoperative intravenous parecoxib sodium followed by oral celecoxib post total knee arthroplasty in osteoarthritis patients (PIPFORCE): a multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Zhuang Qianyu , Tao Liyuan , Lin Jin , Jin Jin , Qian Wenwei , Bian Yanyan , Li Yulong , Dong Yulei , Peng Huiming , Li Ye , Fan Yu , Wang Wei , Feng Bin , Gao Na , Sun Tiezheng , Lin Jianhao , Zhang Miaofeng , Yan Shigui , Shen Bin , Pei Fuxing , Weng Xisheng
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the morphine-sparing effects of the sequential treatment versus placebo in subjects undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the effects on pain relief, inflammation control and functional rehabilitation after TKA and safety.

Design

Double-blind, pragmatic, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.

Setting

Four tertiary hospitals in China.

Participants

246 consecutive patients who underwent elective unilateral TKA because of osteoarthritis (OA).

Interventions

Patients were randomised 1:1 to the parecoxib/celecoxib group or the control group. The patients in the parecoxib/celecoxib group were supplied sequential treatment with intravenous parecoxib 40 mg (every 12 hours) for the first 3 days after surgery, followed by oral celecoxib 200 mg (every 12 hours) for up to 6 weeks. The patients in the control group were supplied with the corresponding placebo under the same instructions.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary endpoint was the cumulative opioid consumption at 2 weeks post operation (intention-to-treat analysis). Secondary endpoints included the Knee Society Score, patient-reported outcomes and the cumulative opioid consumption.

Results

The cumulative opioid consumption at 2 weeks was significantly smaller in the parecoxib/celecoxib group than in the control group (median difference, 57.31 (95% CI 34.66 to 110.33)). The parecoxib/celecoxib group achieving superior Knee Society Scores and EQ-5D scores and greater Visual Analogue Scale score reduction during 6 weeks. Interleukin 6, erythrocyte sedation rate and C-reactive protein levels were reduced at 72 hours, 2 weeks and 4 weeks and prostaglandin E2 levels were reduced at 48 hours and 72 hours in the parecoxib/celecoxib group compared with the placebo group. The occurrence of adverse events (AEs) was significantly lower in the parecoxib/celecoxib group.

Conclusions

The sequential intravenous parecoxib followed by oral celecoxib regimen reduces morphine consumption, achieves better pain control and functional recovery and leads to less AEs than placebo after TKA for OA.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (ID:NCT02198924).
Bowel movement frequency and risks of major vascular and non-vascular diseases: a population-based cohort study among Chinese adults
Authors: Yang Songchun , Yu Canqing , Guo Yu , Bian Zheng , Fan Mengyu , Yang Ling , Du Huaidong , Chen Yiping , Yan Shichun , Zang Yajing , Chen Junshi , Chen Zhengming , Lv Jun , Li Liming
Published: January 2020

Objective

The application of bowel movement frequency (BMF) in primary care is limited by the lack of solid evidence about the associations of BMF with health outcomes apart from Parkinson’s disease and colorectal cancer. We examined the prospective associations of BMF with major vascular and non-vascular diseases outside the digestive system.

Design

Population-based prospective cohort study.

Setting

The China Kadoorie Biobank in which participants from 10 geographically diverse areas across China were enrolled between 2004 and 2008.

Participants

487 198 participants aged 30 to 79 years without cancer, heart disease or stroke at baseline were included and followed up for a median of 10 years. The usual BMF was self-reported once at baseline.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Incident events of predefined major vascular and non-vascular diseases.

Results

In multivariable-adjusted analyses, participants having bowel movements ‘more than once a day’ had higher risks of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease (CKD) when compared with the reference group (‘once a day’). The respective HRs (95% CIs) were 1.12 (1.09 to 1.16), 1.33 (1.22 to 1.46), 1.28 (1.22 to 1.36), 1.20 (1.15 to 1.26) and 1.15 (1.07 to 1.24). The lowest BMF (‘less than three times a week’) was also associated with higher risks of IHD, major coronary events, ischaemic stroke and CKD. The respective HRs were 1.07 (1.02 to 1.12), 1.22 (1.10 to 1.36), 1.11 (1.05 to 1.16) and 1.20 (1.07 to 1.35).

Conclusion

BMF was associated with future risks of multiple vascular and non-vascular diseases. The integration of BMF assessment and health counselling into primary care should be considered.
Association betweenH. pyloriinfection and health Outcomes: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Li Liqun , Tan Jinjing , Liu Lijian , Li Jianfeng , Chen Guangwen , Chen Mingbing , Xie Jieru , Song Qingzeng , Huang Xiaoyan , Xie Sheng
Published: January 2020

Objective

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have revealed the associations betweenH. pyloriinfection and various health outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the strength and breadth of evidence on the associations.

Design

Umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Setting

No settings.

Participants

No patients involved.

Data sources

Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library Databases, CNKI, VIP database and Wangfang database from inception to February 1, 2019.

Outcomes measures

Diverse diseases (such as cancer and ischaemic heart disease).

Results

Sixty articles reporting 88 unique outcomes met the eligible criteria. 74 unique outcomes had nominal significance (p<0.05). Of the outcomes with significance, 61 had harmful associations and 13 had beneficial associations. Furthermore, 73% (64) of the outcomes exhibited significant heterogeneity . Of the these meta-analyses, 32 had moderate to high heterogeneity (I2=50%–75%) and 24 had high heterogeneity (I2>75%). Moreover, 20% exhibited publication bias (p<0.1). In addition, 97% of the methodological qualities were rated ‘critically low’. 36% of the evidence qualities of outcomes were rated ‘low’, 56% of the evidence qualities were rated ‘very low’ and 8% of the evidence qualities were rated ‘moderate’.H. pyloriinfection may be associated with an increased risk of five diseases and a decreased risk of irritable bowel syndrome.

Conclusion

Although 60 meta-analyses explored 88 unique outcomes, moderate quality evidence only existed for six outcomes with statistical significance.H. pyloriinfection may be associated with a decreased risk of irritable bowel syndrome and an increased risk of hypertriglyceridemia, chronic cholecystitis and cholelithiasis, gestational diabetes mellitus, gastric cancer and systemic sclerosis.

Trial registration

CRD42019124680.
Long-acting somatostatin analogue treatments in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and polycystic liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Griffiths Joshua , Mills Mark T , Ong Albert CM
Published: January 2020

Objectives

A number of randomised control trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of long-acting somatostatin analogues in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and polycystic liver disease (PLD) have been recently reported. We sought to evaluate all available RCTs investigating the efficacy of somatostatin analogues treatment in ADPKD and PLD.

Data sources

Electronic databases; Pubmed, Clincaltrials.gov and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

RCTs and randomised cross-over trials comparing the effects of somatostatin analogue treatment with controls in patients with ADPKD or PLD.

Data extraction and synthesis

Data extraction and bias assessments were performed by two independent reviewers between January and May 2019. Outcomes assessed included estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), total kidney volume (TKV), total liver volume (TLV), progression to end stage renal failure (ESRF) and adverse effects. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and reported as relative risk or mean difference with 95% CIs.

Results

Meta-analysis was performed of six RCTs or randomised cross-over trials and three secondary analyses. A total of 592 patients were included. Compared with controls, somatostatin analogue treatment significantly reduced TLV (mean difference −0.15 L, 95% CI −0.26 to −0.03, p=0.01). There was no significant effect on TKV (mean difference −0.19 L, 95% CI −0.50 to 0.12, p=0.23) or eGFR (mean difference 0.27 mL/min/1.73 m2, 95% CI −2.03 to 2.57, p=0.82). There was no effect on progression to ESRF. Somatostatin analogues were associated with known adverse effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusions

The available RCT data show improvement in TLV with somatostatin analogue treatment. There was no benefit to TKV or eGFR in patients with ADPKD, while being associated with various side effects. Further studies are needed to assess potential benefit in reducing cyst burden in patients with PLD.