bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary protein-bound or free amino acids differently affect intestinal morphology, gene expression of amino acid transporters, and serum amino acids of pigs exposed to heat stress
Authors: Morales Adriana , Gómez Tania , Villalobos Yuri D , Bernal Hugo , Htoo John K , González-Vega Jolie C , Espinoza Salvador , Yáñez Jorge , Cervantes Miguel
Published: February 2020

Pigs exposed to heat stress (HS) increase body temperature in which can damage the intestinal epithelia and affect the absorption and availability of amino acids (AA). Protein digestion and metabolism further increase body temperature. An experiment was conducted with six pairs of pigs (of 47.3 ± 1.3 kg initial body weight) exposed to natural HS to assess the effect of substituting dietary protein-bound AA by free AA on morphology and gene expression of intestinal epithelial and serum concentration (SC) of free AA. Treatments were: high protein, 21.9% crude protein (CP) diet (HShp) and low protein, 13.5% CP diet supplemented with crystalline Lys, Thr, Met, Trp, His, Ile, Leu, Phe, and Val (HSaa). The HShp diet met or exceeded all AA requirements. The HSaa diet was formulated on the basis of ideal protein. Pigs were fed the same amount at 0700 and 1900 hours during the 21-d study. Blood samples were collected at 1700 hours (2.0 h before the evening meal), 2030 hours, and 2130 hours (1.5 and 2.5 h after the evening meal). At the end, all pigs were sacrificed to collect intestinal mucosa and a 5-cm section from each segment of the small intestine from each pig. Villi measures, expression of AA transporters (y+L and B0) in mucosa, and SC of AA were analyzed. Ambient temperature fluctuated daily from 24.5 to 42.6 °C. Weight gain and G.F were not affected by dietary treatment. Villi height tended to be larger (P ≤ 0.10) and the villi height:crypt depth ratio was higher in duodenum and jejunum of pigs fed the HSaa diet (P < 0.05). Gene expression of transporter y+L in jejunum tended to be lower (P < 0.10) and transporter B0 in the ileum was lower (P < 0.05) in HSaa pigs. Preprandial (1700 hours) SC of Arg, His, Ile, Leu, Thr, Trp, and Val was higher (P < 0.05), and Phe tended to be higher (P < 0.10) in HShp pigs. At 2030 hours (1.5 h postprandial), serum Lys, Met, and Thr were higher in the HSaa pigs (P < 0.05). At 2130 hours (2.5 h), Arg, His, Ile, Phe, and Trp were lower (P < 0.05); Met was higher (P < 0.05); and Lys tended to be higher (P < 0.10) in HSaa pigs. In conclusion, feeding HS pigs with low protein diets supplemented with free AA reduces the damage of the intestinal epithelia and seems to improve its absorption capacity, in comparison with HS pigs fed diets containing solely protein-bound AA. This information is useful to formulate diets that correct the reduced AA consumption associated with the decreased voluntary feed intake of pigs under HS.
Effects of diet on body weight, body composition, metabolic status, and physical activity levels of adult female dogs after spay surgery
Authors: Phungviwatnikul Thunyaporn , Valentine Helen , de Godoy Maria R C , Swanson Kelly S
Published: February 2020

Neutering is a risk factor for pet obesity, which reduces the quality and length of life. Dietary interventions may serve as preventive and therapeutic options for pet obesity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of specially formulated diets on body weight (BW), body composition, and blood hormones and metabolites of adult female dogs after spay surgery. All procedures were approved by the University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee prior to experimentation. Twenty-eight healthy adult intact female Beagles (3.02 ± 0.7 yr; 10.28 ± 0.8 kg; body condition score [BCS]: 4.98 ± 0.57) were used in a longitudinal study. Twenty-four dogs were spayed and randomly allotted to one of three experimental diets: 1) moderate-protein, moderate-fiber diet (control; COSP), 2) high-protein, high-fiber diet (HP-HF), or 3) high-protein, high-fiber diet plus omega-3 and medium-chain fatty acids (HP-HF-O). Four dogs were sham-operated and fed the control diet (COSH). Food intake, BW, BCS, blood hormones and metabolites, body composition (via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans), and voluntary physical activity (via Actical devices) were measured over time. After spay, dogs were fed to maintain BW for 12 wk (restricted phase), then allowed to overeat for 12 wk (ad libitum phase). Change from baseline data was analyzed for treatment, time, and treatment × time effects as well as treatment, feeding regimen, and treatment × feeding regimen effects. During the first 12 wk, HP-HF and HP-HF-O had lower (P < 0.01) blood cholesterol than COSH and COSP. During the second 12 wk, HP-HF and HP-HF-O ate more (P < 0.01) food (g/d) than COSH. BCS change for COSP was greater (P < 0.01) than COSH from week 21 to 24, but HP-HF and HP-HF-O were not different. When comparing data by feeding regimen, HP-HF and HP-HF-O had a greater reduction in serum cholesterol (P < 0.001) than COSH and COSP. During the second 12 wk, all spayed dogs consumed more (P < 0.01) food than COSH. However, COSH, HP-HF, and HP-HF-O had a lower (P < 0.001) increase in BCS than COSP. HP-HF-O and COSH had similar serum leptin during weeks 12 to 24. COSP had higher (P ≤ 0.01) serum C-reactive protein than HP-HF-O. Overall, body fat increase in COSP was greater (P < 0.05) than for COSH at week 24, while HP-HF and HP-HF-O were intermediate. Our results indicate that an HP-HF diet can limit weight gain and body fat increase and attenuate serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and leptin concentrations in dogs after spay surgery.
Generative and discriminative model-based approaches to microscopic image restoration and segmentation
Authors: Ishii Shin , Lee Sehyung , Urakubo Hidetoshi , Kume Hideaki , Kasai Haruo
Published: February 2020

Image processing is one of the most important applications of recent machine learning (ML) technologies. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs), a popular deep learning-based ML architecture, have been developed for image processing applications. However, the application of ML to microscopic images is limited as microscopic images are often 3D/4D, that is, the image sizes can be very large, and the images may suffer from serious noise generated due to optics. In this review, three types of feature reconstruction applications to microscopic images are discussed, which fully utilize the recent advancements in ML technologies. First, multi-frame super-resolution is introduced, based on the formulation of statistical generative model-based techniques such as Bayesian inference. Second, data-driven image restoration is introduced, based on supervised discriminative model-based ML technique. In this application, CNNs are demonstrated to exhibit preferable restoration performance. Third, image segmentation based on data-driven CNNs is introduced. Image segmentation has become immensely popular in object segmentation based on electron microscopy (EM); therefore, we focus on EM image processing.
Whoever Has Will be Given More: The Effect of Performance Information on Frontline Employees’ Support for Managerial Policy Initiatives
Authors: Petersen Niels Bjørn G
Published: February 2020

Research has demonstrated how policy changes are bound to fail without the support of frontline employees. This study examines how performance information influences frontline employees’ support for managerial policy initiatives. We develop hypotheses stating that the exposure to positive and negative organizational performance scores compared to average scores increases frontline employees’ support for managerial policy initiatives and thus facilitate policy change. To test our hypotheses, we conduct a survey experiment on more than 1,500 social caseworkers working in Danish employment agencies. The results show that while the provision of positive organizational scores increases caseworkers’ support for managerial policy initiatives, there is no direct effect following the exposure of negative performance scores. However, additional exploratory analysis reveals that the caseworkers’ experienced work pressure moderates the effect of positive and negative performance information. Specifically, caseworkers that experience a high work pressure are more inclined to support managerial policy initiatives following positive and negative performance scores. Furthermore, the explorative analysis indicates that the caseworkers tend to ignore negative performance information, which strongly suggests that poor performance scores trigger identity-protective cognition. Overall, the study advances our understanding of the link between performance information and support of policy changes on the frontline of public services by showing how different performance scores influence employees’ support for managerial policy initiatives.
Gallbladder necrosis and small bowel ischaemia following fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair for juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm: a case report
Authors: Ng Alvin Yuan Liang , Gale Michael , Renwick Bryce , Bachoo Paul
Published: February 2020

Anatomical variation may result in unexpected complications after fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR). We report a 78-year-old gentleman who was admitted for elective FEVAR procedure for a juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Three days post-operatively, he deteriorated clinically. Computed tomography (CT) angiogram showed small bowel ischaemia and a replaced right hepatic artery originating from superior mesenteric artery. A necrotic gallbladder found during laparotomy required cholecystectomy following small bowel resection that required a relook for anastomosis and drainage of bile collection. He had prolonged ICU stay requiring treatment for multiple organ dysfunction then spent 4 weeks in hospital. Following multidisciplinary team approach in management of his complications during post-operative phase, he recovered well enough for rehabilitation and discharge home. Surveillance CT aorta at 1 month and 6 months post FEVAR showed satisfactory FEVAR appearance with no endoleak.
Models of bars − II. Exponential profiles
Authors: McGough D P , Evans N W , Sanders J L
Published: February 2020

We present a new model for galactic bars with exponentially falling major axis luminosity profiles and Gaussian cross-sections. This is based on the linear superposition of Gaussian potential–density pairs with an exponential weight function, using an extension of the method originally introduced by Long & Murali. We compute the density, potential, and forces, using Gaussian quadrature. These quantities are given as explicit functions of position. There are three independent scaled bar parameters that can be varied continuously to produce bespoke bars of a given mass and shape. We categorize the effective potential by splitting a reduced parameter space into six regions. Unusually, we find bars with three stable Lagrange points on the major axis are possible. Our model reveals a variety of unexpected orbital structure, including a bifurcating x1 orbit coexisting with a stable x4 orbit. Propeller orbits are found to play a dominant role in the orbital structure, and we find striking similarities between our bar configuration and the model of Kaufmann & Contopoulos. We find a candidate orbital family, sired from the propeller orbits, that may be responsible for the observed high-velocity peaks in the Milky Way’s bar. As a cross-check, we inspect, for the first time, the proper motions of stars in the high-velocity peaks, which also match our suggested orbital family well. This work adds to the increasing body of evidence that real galactic bars may be supported at least partly by propeller orbits rather than solely by elliptical-like orbits of the x1 family.
Cosmic ray transport in starburst galaxies
Authors: Krumholz Mark R , Crocker Roland M , Xu Siyao , Lazarian A , Rosevear M T , Bedwell-Wilson Jasper
Published: February 2020

Starburst galaxies are efficient γ-ray producers, because their high supernova rates generate copious cosmic ray (CR) protons, and their high gas densities act as thick targets off which these protons can produce neutral pions and thence γ-rays. In this paper, we present a first-principles calculation of the mechanisms by which CRs propagate through such environments, combining astrochemical models with analysis of turbulence in weakly ionized plasma. We show that CRs cannot scatter off the strong large-scale turbulence found in starbursts, because efficient ion-neutral damping prevents such turbulence from cascading down to the scales of CR gyroradii. Instead, CRs stream along field lines at a rate determined by the competition between streaming instability and ion-neutral damping, leading to transport via a process of field line random walk. This results in an effective diffusion coefficient that is nearly energy independent up to CR energies of ∼1 TeV. We apply our computed diffusion coefficient to a simple model of CR escape and loss, and show that the resulting γ-ray spectra are in good agreement with the observed spectra of the starbursts NGC 253, M82, and Arp 220. In particular, our model reproduces these galaxies’ relatively hard GeV γ-ray spectra and softer TeV spectra without the need for any fine-tuning of advective escape times or the shape of the CR injection spectrum.
TICs 167692429 and 220397947: the first compact hierarchical triple stars discovered with TESS
Authors: Borkovits T , Rappaport S A , Hajdu T , Maxted P F L , Pál A , Forgács-Dajka E , Klagyivik P , Mitnyan T
Published: February 2020

We report the discovery and complex analyses of the first two compact hierarchical triple star systems discovered with TESS in or near its southern continuous viewing zone during Year 1. Both TICs 167692429 and 220397947 were previously unknown eclipsing binaries, and the presence of a third companion star was inferred from eclipse timing variations exhibiting signatures of strong third-body perturbations and, in the first system, also from eclipse depth variations. We carried out comprehensive analyses, including the simultaneous photodynamical modelling of TESS and archival ground-based WASP light curves, as well as eclipse timing variation curves. Also, for the first time, we included in the simultaneous fits multiple star spectral energy distribution data and theoretical PARSEC stellar isochrones, taking into account Gaia DR2 parallaxes and catalogued metallicities. We find that both systems have twin F-star binaries and a lower mass tertiary star. In the TIC 167692429 system, the inner binary is moderately inclined (imut = 27°) with respect to the outer orbit, and the binary versus outer (triple) orbital periods are 10.3 versus 331 d, respectively. The mutually inclined orbits cause a driven precession of the binary orbital plane that leads to the disappearance of binary eclipses for long intervals. In the case of TIC 220397947, the two orbital planes are more nearly aligned and the inner versus outer orbital periods are 3.5 and 77 d, respectively. In the absence of radial velocity observations, we were unable to calculate highly accurate masses and ages for the two systems. According to stellar isochrones TIC 167692429 might be either a pre-main sequence (MS) or an older post-MS system. In the case of TIC 220397947, our solution prefers a young pre-MS scenario.
The hTERT core promoter forms three parallel G-quadruplexes
Authors: Monsen Robert C , DeLeeuw Lynn , Dean William L , Gray Robert D , Sabo T Michael , Chakravarthy Srinivas , Chaires Jonathan B , Trent John O
Published: February 2020

The structure of the 68 nt sequence with G-quadruplex forming potential within the hTERT promoter is disputed. One model features a structure with three stacked parallel G-quadruplex units, while another features an unusual duplex hairpin structure adjoined to two stacked parallel and antiparallel quadruplexes. We report here the results of an integrated structural biology study designed to distinguish between these possibilities. As part of our study, we designed a sequence with an optimized hairpin structure and show that its biophysical and biochemical properties are inconsistent with the structure formed by the hTERT wild-type sequence. By using circular dichroism, thermal denaturation, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, analytical ultracentrifugation, small-angle X-ray scattering, molecular dynamics simulations and a DNase I cleavage assay we found that the wild type hTERT core promoter folds into a stacked, three-parallel G-quadruplex structure. The hairpin structure is inconsistent with all of our experimental data obtained with the wild-type sequence. All-atom models for both structures were constructed using molecular dynamics simulations. These models accurately predicted the experimental hydrodynamic properties measured for each structure. We found with certainty that the wild-type hTERT promoter sequence does not form a hairpin structure in solution, but rather folds into a compact stacked three-G-quadruplex conformation.
Acetylation of MORC2 by NAT10 regulates cell-cycle checkpoint control and resistance to DNA-damaging chemotherapy and radiotherapy in breast cancer
Authors: Liu Hong-Yi , Liu Ying-Ying , Yang Fan , Zhang Lin , Zhang Fang-Lin , Hu Xin , Shao Zhi-Min , Li Da-Qiang
Published: February 2020

MORC family CW-type zinc finger 2 (MORC2) is an oncogenic chromatin-remodeling enzyme with an emerging role in DNA repair. Here, we report a novel function for MORC2 in cell-cycle checkpoint control through an acetylation-dependent mechanism. MORC2 is acetylated by the acetyltransferase NAT10 at lysine 767 (K767Ac) and this process is counteracted by the deacetylase SIRT2 under unperturbed conditions. DNA-damaging chemotherapeutic agents and ionizing radiation stimulate MORC2 K767Ac through enhancing the interaction between MORC2 and NAT10. Notably, acetylated MORC2 binds to histone H3 phosphorylation at threonine 11 (H3T11P) and is essential for DNA damage-induced reduction of H3T11P and transcriptional repression of its downstream target genes CDK1 and Cyclin B1, thus contributing to DNA damage-induced G2 checkpoint activation. Chemical inhibition or depletion of NAT10 or expression of an acetylation-defective MORC2 (K767R) forces cells to pass through G2 checkpoint, resulting in hypersensitivity to DNA-damaging agents. Moreover, MORC2 acetylation levels are associated with elevated NAT10 expression in clinical breast tumor samples. Together, these findings uncover a previously unrecognized role for MORC2 in regulating DNA damage-induced G2 checkpoint through NAT10-mediated acetylation and provide a potential therapeutic strategy to sensitize breast cancer cells to DNA-damaging chemotherapy and radiotherapy by targeting NAT10.
Exact solutions of Mathieu’s equation
Authors: Daniel Derek J.
Published: February 2020

Mathieu’s equation originally emerged while studying vibrations on an elliptical drumhead, so naturally, being a linear second-order ordinary differential equation with a Cosine periodic potential, it has many useful applications in theoretical and experimental physics. Unfortunately, there exists no closed-form analytic solution of Mathieu’s equation, so that future studies and applications of this equation, as evidenced in the literature, are inevitably fraught by numerical approximation schemes and nonlinear analysis of so-called stability charts. The present research work, therefore, avoids such analyses by making exceptional use of Laurent series expansions and four-term recurrence relations. Unexpectedly, this approach has uncovered two linearly independent solutions to Mathie’s equation, each of which is in closed form. An exact and general analytic solution to Mathieu’s equation, then, follows in the usual way of an appropriate linear combination of the two linearly independent solutions.
Physical Therapists and Physicians Evaluate Nonarthritic Hip Disease Differently: Results From a National Survey
Authors: Brown-Taylor Lindsey , Lynch Andrew , Foraker Randi , Harris-Hayes Marcie , Walrod Bryant , Vasileff W Kelton , Glaws Kathryn , Di Stasi Stephanie
Published: February 2020

Background

Physical therapy and surgery are viable treatment options for nonarthritic hip disease (NAHD). Interdisciplinary collaboration can help patients make informed treatment decisions. Understanding how each provider can contribute is a critical first step in developing collaborative evaluation efforts.

Objective

The objective of this study was to describe the current evaluation of NAHD by both physical therapists and physicians, and evaluate national use of expert-recommended evaluation guidelines.

Design

A national survey study distributed in the United States was implemented to accomplish the objective.

Methods

A survey was distributed to 25,027 potential physical therapist and physician respondents. Respondents detailed their evaluation content for patients with NAHD across the following domains: patient-reported outcomes, patient history, special tests, movement assessment, clinical tests, and imaging. Respondents ranked importance of each domain using a 5-point Likert scale (not important, slightly important, important, very important, or extremely important). Odds ratios (ORs [95% CIs]) were calculated to identify the odds that physical therapists, compared with physicians, would report each evaluation domain as at least very important. Fisher exact tests were performed to identify statistically significant ORs.

Results

Nine hundred and fourteen participants (3.6%) completed the survey. Physical therapists were more likely to indicate movement assessment (OR: 4.23 [2.99–6.02]) and patient-reported outcomes (OR: 2.56 [1.67–3.99]) as at least very important for determining a diagnosis and plan of care. Physical therapists had lower odds of rating imaging (OR: 0.09 [0.06–0.14]) and special tests (OR: 0.72 [0.53–0.98]) as at least very important compared with physicians.

Limitations

This survey study did not include many orthopedic surgeons and thus, primarily represents evaluation practices of physical therapists and nonsurgical physicians.

Conclusions

Physical therapists were more likely to consider movement assessment very important for the evaluation of patients with NAHD, whereas physicians were more likely to consider imaging and special testing very important.
Role of the Community Reinvestment Act in Mortgage Supply and the U.S. Housing Boom
Authors: Saadi Vahid
Published: February 2020

This paper studies the role of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) in the U.S. housing boom-bust cycle. I find that enhanced CRA enforcement in 1998 increased the growth rate of mortgage lending by CRA-regulated banks to CRA-eligible census tracts. I show that during the boom period house price growth was higher in the eligible census tracts because of the shift in mortgage supply of regulated banks. Consequently, these census tracts experienced a worse housing bust. I find that CRA-induced mortgages were awarded to borrowers with lower FICO scores and were more frequently delinquent.
Net return distributions when metaphylaxis is used to control bovine respiratory disease in high health-risk cattle
Authors: Dennis Elliott J , Schroeder Ted C , Renter David G
Published: February 2020

This study’s objective was to estimate net returns and return risk for antimicrobial metaphylaxis options to manage bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in high health-risk feedlot cattle. The effectiveness of antimicrobials for metaphylaxis varies by cattle population. How differing antimicrobial effectiveness translates to net return profitability for heterogeneous cattle populations is less understood. Net returns and return risk were assessed using a net return simulation model adapted to allow for heterogeneity in high health-risk cattle placement characteristics and antimicrobial choice to control BRD. The net return model incorporated how antimicrobials modify BRD health and performance outcomes. Health and performance outcomes were calibrated from published literature and proprietary feedlot data. Proprietary data came from 10 Midwestern feedlots representing nearly 6 million animals and 50,000 cohorts. Twelve placement-by-metaphylaxis decision combinations were assessed: high health-risk steer placement demographics were 600 or 800 lb steers placed in Winter (Oct–Mar) or Summer (Apr–Sept) managed with one of three different health programs: “no metaphylaxis,” “Upper Tier” antimicrobial, or “Lower Tier” antimicrobial. Net return distributions were compared between “no metaphylaxis” and a specific antimicrobial tier within specific cattle populations. We found the expected incremental net return of administering an “Upper Tier” (“Lower Tier”) antimicrobial for metaphylaxis compared to “no metaphylaxis” for high health-risk steers was $122.55 per head ($65.72) for 600 lb and $148.65 per head ($79.65) for 800 lb winter placements. The incremental expected net return and risk mitigated by metaphylaxis varied by placement weight, season, and antimicrobial choice. The probability net returns would decline by at least $50 per head was significantly reduced (from approximately 4% to 40%) when any antimicrobial was used on high health-risk steers. Both tiers of antimicrobials used for metaphylaxis increased expected net returns and decreased net return variability relative to no metaphylaxis. Thus, feedlots were more certain and realize a greater profit on high health-risk pens of steers when metaphylaxis was used. This occurred because the reduction in cattle health and performance outcomes using any antimicrobial was sufficiently large to cover added initial and subsequent antimicrobial costs. Results aid in assessing metaphylaxis strategies in high health-risk cattle.
Olive Twig and Branch Dieback in California Caused by Cytospora oleicola and the Newly Described Species Cytospora olivarum sp. nov.
Authors: Úrbez-Torres José Ramón , Lawrence Daniel P. , Hand Francesca Peduto , Trouillas Florent P.
Published: February 2020

Field surveys conducted throughout California olive-growing regions in 2008 and 2009 resulted in a collection of 101 Cytospora-like isolates from olive twig and branch dieback symptoms. Cytospora isolates were isolated from multiple cvs. in different olive orchards in Fresno, Madera, Merced, Napa, Riverside, Santa Barbara, Sonoma, Tulare, and Ventura counties. Taxonomic studies of macro- and microscopic structures along with multigene phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer region, including the 5.8S rDNA (ITS1–5.8S–ITS2), and fragments of the translation elongation factor 1-α, beta-tubulin, and actin genes identified two species, Cytospora oleicola and C. olivarum sp. nov. Pathogenicity studies conducted in mature olive trees cvs. Manzanillo and Sevillano showed both species to be pathogenic and able to cause vascular necrosis and cankers in olive branches. This study adds to the current knowledge on the etiology of olive twig and branch dieback and provides new important information for the development of effective control strategies against canker diseases affecting olive in California.
Identification of Pathogenicity Groups and Pathogenic Molecular Characterization of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. sesami in China
Authors: Duan Yinghui , Qu Wenwen , Chang Shuxian , Li Chun , Xu Fangfang , Ju Ming , Zhao Ruihong , Wang Huili , Zhang Haiyang , Miao Hongmei
Published: February 2020

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. sesami is an extremely destructive pathogen, causing sesame Fusarium wilt disease worldwide. To clarify the pathogenicity and the genetic characters of F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami, we systematically investigated 69 F. oxysporum isolates collected from major sesame-growing areas in China. Among these isolates, 54 isolates were pathogenic and 15 were nonpathogenic according to pathogenicity testing on sesame seedlings. For the pathogenic isolates, three F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami pathogenicity groups were defined based on the three differential sesame hosts for the first time. A translation elongation factor 1α gene tree was constructed to determine the genetic diversity of the F. oxysporum isolates but could not separate F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami isolates from the nonpathogenic isolates and other F. oxysporum formae speciales. Ten secreted-in-xylem (SIX) genes (one family of effectors) were identified in F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami isolates by a search with the genome data, and were subsequently screened in the 69 F. oxysporum isolates. Compared with the SIX gene profiles in other F. oxysporum formae speciales, the presence and sequence variations of the SIX gene homologs directly correlated with the specific pathogenicity of F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami toward sesame. Furthermore, eight of these F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami SIX genes were significantly expressed in sesame plants as infection of the F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami isolate. These findings have important significance for understanding the pathogenic basis of F. oxysporum f. sp. sesami isolates, and will contribute to improve the diagnostics to effectively control Fusarium wilt disease in sesame.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Vacca Vincent M.
Published: February 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as storage of excess fat in the liver not caused by heavy alcohol consumption. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is the severe form of NAFLD. This article discusses causes, diagnosis, and nursing interventions for patients with either disorder.
Removal of a Well-Fixed Cementless CLS Expansion Cup
Authors: Ilizaliturri Victor M. , Sánchez Rubén Arriaga , Suarez-Ahedo Carlos
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this technical note is to present a novel technique to remove a well-fixed uncemented cementless System expansion acetabular cup; the technique is on the basis of its 6 flaps design. The use of metal cutting high-speed burr allows to dismantle the cup, piece by piece, by cutting each of the flaps from the dome portion of the implant, this facilitates the extraction of each piece from the bone bed while preserving host bone. Because the bone bed of the acetabulum is carefully prepared a new uncemented hemispherical cup may be implanted after removal of the cementless System expansion cup.
Terlipressin Increases Systemic and Lowers Pulmonary Arterial Pressure in Experimental Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Schultz Jacob , Andersen Asger , Lyhne Mads D. , Arcanjo Daniel D. R. , Kjaergaard Benedict , Simonsen Ulf , Nielsen-Kudsk Jens Erik
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

We investigated whether the vasopressin-analog, terlipressin induces systemic vasoconstriction and pulmonary vasodilation in a porcine model of acute pulmonary embolism.

Design:

Controlled, animal study.

Setting:

Tertiary medical center research laboratory.

Subjects:

Female pigs (n = 12, Cross of Land Race, Duroc, and Yorkshire ~ 60 kg).

Interventions:

Acute pulmonary embolism was induced by administration of three large autologous emboli. Animals then received four increasing doses of either terlipressin (n = 6) or vehicle (n = 6).

Measurements and Main Results:

Effects were evaluated in vivo at baseline, after pulmonary embolism and after each dose by invasive hemodynamic measures, transesophageal echocardiography, and blood analysis. Isolated pulmonary arteries were evaluated ex vivo in a myograph. Pulmonary embolism caused a four-fold increase in pulmonary vascular resistance (p < 0.0001) and a two-fold increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (p < 0.0001) compared with baseline. Terlipressin increased mean systemic blood pressure (28 ± 5 mm Hg; p < 0.0001) and systemic vascular resistance (1,320 ± 143 dynes; p < 0.0001) compared with vehicle. In the pulmonary circulation, terlipressin decreased mean pulmonary arterial pressure (–6.5 ± 1.8 mm Hg; p = 0.005) and tended to decrease pulmonary vascular resistance (–83 ± 33 dynes; p = 0.07). Terlipressin decreased cardiac output (–2.5 ± 0.5 L/min; p < 0.0001) and increased plasma lactate (2.7 ± 0.2 mmol/L; p < 0.0001), possibly indicating systemic hypoperfusion. A biomarker of cerebral ischemia, S100b, remained unchanged, suggesting preserved cerebral perfusion (0.17 ± 0.11 µg/L; p = 0.51). Ex vivo, terlipressin relaxed pulmonary and constricted mesenteric arteries.

Conclusions:

Terlipressin caused systemic vasoconstriction and pulmonary vasodilation in a porcine in vivo model of acute pulmonary embolism and vasorelaxation in isolated pulmonary arteries. Despite positive vascular effects, cardiac output declined and plasma lactate increased probably due to a predominantly systemic vasoconstrictor effect of terlipressin. These findings should warrant careful translation to the clinical setting and does not suggest routine use in acute pulmonary embolism.
The Use of Communication Technology to Affect Patient Outcomes in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Koszalinski Rebecca S. , Heidel Robert E. , Hutson Sadie P. , Li Xueping , Palmer Teresa G. , McCarthy Jillian , Hollibush Todd , Massoli Joseph , Simmons Amanda , Jagirdar Nikhil , Velur Rajashekaran Pradeep
Published: February 2020

Effective two-way patient-provider communication is challenging and is even more difficult when patients are communication vulnerable. The results of being unheard and unacknowledged can contribute to negative feelings and may manifest as symptoms of anxiety and depression. Researchers explored symptoms of anxiety and depression when using a team-developed, patient-centered, and nurse-led intervention called Speak for Myself—Voice (formerly published as Speak for Myself) in five intensive care units at a Magnet status, university-affiliated medical center in East Tennessee. This was an equivalent control group design. The data were analyzed with a mixed-effect analysis of variance (between and within groups) with repeated measures to see if the treatment group changed differently than the control group across time (48 hours). This study report adds information about anxiety and depression in patients who are communication vulnerable and using communication technology.
Vascular endothelial growth factor concentration in vitreous humor of patients with severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy after intravitreal injection of conbercept as an adjunctive therapy for vitrectomy
Authors: Li Bing , Li Meng-Da , Ye Jun-Jie , Chen Zhe , Guo Zi-Jian , Di Yu
Published: February 2020

Background

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is a progressive stage of diabetic retinopathy featured by the formation of neovascular and proliferative membrane. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) acts as a pivot factor in the development of neovascularization. This study was to investigate the changes of intravitreal VEGF concentrations of severe PDR after intravitreal injection of conbercept (IVC) and its potential advantages to the following vitrectomy.

Methods

This was a prospective, interventional, randomized controlled study. Sixty eyes (60 patients) with severe PDR and 20 eyes from 20 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment complicated with proliferative vitreoretinopathy were enrolled in this study. PDR eyes were randomly assigned to three groups by sortation randomization method with 20 eyes in each based on the interval of preoperative IVC (group A: 7 days, group B: 14 days, group C: non-IVC). Another 20 eyes without diabetes were enrolled as the non-diabetic control group (group D), receiving PPV directly. Vitreous specimens of all 80 patients were collected and evaluated afterwards. The intravitreal VEGF concentration of the four groups, and the total surgical time and the intraoperative bleeding rate of the PDR groups were recorded.

Results

The mean intravitreal VEGF concentrations of groups A–D were 66.6 ± 43.3, 93.1 ± 52.3, 161.4 ± 106.1 and 1.8 ± 1.2 pg/mL, respectively. It increased significantly in PDR patients (groups A, B and C) (P = 0.002, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively). PDR patients with preoperative IVC (groups A and B) presented significantly lower VEGF concentrations (P < 0.001 and 0.001), intraoperative bleeding rates (P = 0.004) and total surgical time (P < 0.001, P = 0.003) compared with group C. No statistical differences were presented between groups A and B on the three parameters.

Conclusion

Seven days and 14 days of preoperative IVC are equally efficient and safe for the vitrectomy of severe PDR patients through decreasing vitreous VEGF concentrations, intraoperative bleeding rate and total surgical times.
Treatment of Laser-Responsive Dermal Pigmentary Conditions in Type III-IV Asian Skin With a 755-nm Picosecond Pulse Duration Laser: A Retrospective Review of Its Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Koh Yun Pei , Tan Aaron Wei Min , Chua Sze Hon
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Picosecond lasers have become very popular in the treatment of hyperpigmentation.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluating the efficacy and safety of picosecond 755-nm laser in treatment of nevi of Ota (NO) and Hori's nevi (HN) in Asians with Fitzpatrick skin Types III/IV.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patient records at the National Skin Center, Singapore, from 2015 to 2017. Three independent blinded dermatologists assessed pre-and-post treatment photographs using the physician's global assessment (PGA) score (0-clear, 1-almost clear, 2-mild, 3-moderate, and 4-severe).

RESULTS

There were 18 cases of NO and 11 cases of HN. Mean treatment sessions were 2.22 (NO; range 1–6) and 3.82 (HN; range 1–6). In the NO group, mean pre-and-post treatment PGA scores were 3.1 and 1.3, respectively (1.8 point change, p-value 0.0002), and average fluence used was 2.02 J/cm2 (range: 1.02–2.38). In the HN group, mean pre-and-post treatment PGA scores were 2.6 and 1.1, respectively (1.5 point change, p-value 0.004), and average fluence was 2.08 J/cm2 (range: 1.98–3.40). Eleven patients (37.9%) experienced postlaser erythema, and 1 (3.4%) patient developed transient postlaser hypopigmentation. No permanent hyper/hypopigmentation was seen.

CONCLUSION

The picosecond 755-nm laser is effective in the treatment of dermal pigmentary conditions in Asians with Fitzpatrick skin Types III/IV, with minimal risk of postlaser complications, and compared with the center's past experience with the Q-switched nanosecond 1064-nm laser, results in faster and more effective pigment clearance.
Effect of an ultrasound-guided lung recruitment manoeuvre on postoperative atelectasis in children
Authors: Lee Ji-Hyun , Choi Seungeun , Ji Sang-Hwan , Jang Young-Eun , Kim Eun-Hee , Kim Hee-Soo , Kim Jin-Tae
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided alveolar recruitment, regardless of the technique, could be more effective because it facilitates real-time monitoring of the expansion of collapsed alveoli.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate and compare the effects of an ultrasound-guided lung recruitment manoeuvre with those of a conventional recruitment manoeuvre on the occurrence of postoperative atelectasis and clinical outcomes in children.

DESIGN

A randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Tertiary children's hospital.

PATIENTS

Children aged 6 years or less.

INTERVENTION

Children scheduled for simple, superficial procedures underwent lung ultrasound after tracheal intubation (T1), at the end of surgery (T2) and before discharge from the postanaesthesia care unit (T3). Following lung ultrasound evaluation at T1 and T2, the conventional recruitment manoeuvre with a maximal airway pressure of 30 cmH2O was performed in the control group, while an ultrasound-guided recruitment manoeuvre was performed in the ultrasound group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the incidence of significant atelectasis at T3.

RESULTS

The incidences of atelectasis at T3 were 20.9 and 11.6% in the control (n = 43) and ultrasound groups (n = 43), respectively (odds ratio [OR], 2.012; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.614 to 6.594; P = 0.249). The lung ultrasound scores were better in the ultrasound group than in the control group at T2 and T3, and the incidence of postoperative desaturation was higher in the control group than in the ultrasound group (16.3 vs. 2.3%; OR, 0.12; 95% CI 0.01 to 1.04; P = 0.05). The median airway pressure required for full lung expansion in the ultrasound group was 35 cmH2O at T1 and T2. Other postoperative outcomes were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided lung recruitment may be more effective than the conventional procedure in terms of the prevention of intra-operative atelectasis and postoperative desaturation; however, its beneficial effects on postoperative atelectasis remain unclear. An inspiratory airway pressure of more than 30 cmH2O is required for full recruitment of alveoli in healthy children.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03453762).
Enhanced recovery after surgery for cesarean delivery
Authors: Suharwardy Sanaa , Carvalho Brendan
Published: February 2020

Purpose of review

The aim of this article is to describe enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) and its application to cesarean delivery.

Recent findings

ERAS is a standardized, multidisciplinary approach to improving the care of surgical patients, from the preoperative planning through the surgery and postoperative period. ERAS is associated with many benefits, including improved patient outcomes and satisfaction as well as reduced length-of-stay and cost. Obstetric implementation of ERAS protocols has lagged compared to other surgical subspecialties. Given the volume of cesarean deliveries worldwide, improving the quality and cost of care through broad application of ERAS could have significant benefits.

ERAS pathways specific to cesarean delivery should be implemented and can improve the quality of care provided.
Mitochondrial function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Cozzolino Mauro , Seli Emre
Published: February 2020

Purpose of review

To provide an overview of mitochondrial functional alterations in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Recent findings

Although numerous studies have focused on PCOS, the pathophysiological mechanisms that cause this common disease remain unclear. Mitochondria play a central role in energy production, and mitochondrial dysfunction may underlie several abnormalities observed in women with PCOS. Recent studies associated mtDNA mutations and low mtDNA copy number with PCOS, and set out to characterize the potential protective role of mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein responses (UPRmt and UPRer).

Mitochondrial dysfunction likely plays a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS by increasing reactive oxygen (ROS) and oxidative stress. This occurs in a metabolic milieu often affected by insulin resistance, which is a common finding in women with PCOS, especially in those who are overweight or obese. Mutations in mtDNA and low mtDNA copy number are found in these patients and may have potential as diagnostic modalities for specific PCOS phenotypes. More recently, UPRer and UPRmt are being investigated as potential cellular rescue mechanisms in PCOS, the failure of which may lead to apoptosis, and contribute to decreased reproductive potential.
RNA-based therapeutics in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Pham Tan Phát , Kremer Veerle , Boon Reinier A.
Published: February 2020

Purpose of review

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, with the number of deaths rising every year. Much effort has gone into development of new treatment strategies. Many RNA species have important regulatory functions in disease initiation and progression, providing interesting new treatment options. This review focuses on different classes of RNA-based therapeutics and provides examples of current clinical and preclinical studies. Current challenges that prevent clinical translation and possibilities to overcome them will be discussed.

Recent findings

Different RNA-based molecules have been developed, such as antisense oligos, microRNA mimics and small interfering RNAs. Modifications are used to prevent degradation and immune activation and improve affinity. Additionally, in order to improve delivery of the RNA molecules to the target tissues, viral or nonviral vectors can be used.

RNA-based therapy has been shown to be a promising new treatment strategy for different disorders. However, several challenges, such as delivery problems and low efficacy remain. Future research will likely focus on effective delivery to target tissues in order to improve efficacy and avoid harmful side-effects.
Functional characterization of long noncoding RNAs
Authors: Moore Joseph B. , Uchida Shizuka
Published: February 2020

Purpose of review

Mounting evidence suggests that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential regulators of gene expression. Although few lncRNAs have been the subject of detailed molecular and functional characterization, it is believed that lncRNAs play an important role in tissue homeostasis and development. In fact, gene expression profiling studies reveal lncRNAs are developmentally regulated in a tissue-type and cell-type specific manner. Such findings have brought significant attention to their potential contribution to disease cause. The current review summarizes recent studies of lncRNAs in the heart.

Recent findings

lncRNA discovery has largely been driven by the implementation of next generation sequencing technologies. To date, such technologies have contributed to the identification of tens of thousands of distinct lncRNAs in humans -- accounting for a large majority of all RNA sequences transcribed across the human genome. Although the functions of these lncRNAs remain largely unknown, gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies (in vivo and in vitro) have uncovered a number of mechanisms by which lncRNAs regulate gene expression and protein function. Such mechanisms have been stratified according to three major functional categories: RNA sponges (RNA-mediated sequestration of free miRNAs; e.g. H19, MEG3, and MALAT1); transcription-modulating lncRNAs (RNA influences regulatory factor recruitment by binding to histone modifiers or transcription factors; e.g. CAIF, MANTIS, and NEAT1); and translation-modulating lncRNAs (RNA modifies protein function via directly interacting with a protein itself or binding partners; e.g. Airn, CCRR, and ZFAS1).

Recent studies strongly suggest that lncRNAs function via binding to macromolecules (e.g. genomic DNA, miRNAs, or proteins). Thus, lncRNAs constitute an additional mode by which cells regulate gene expression.
Home and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in children, adolescents and young adults: comparison, diagnostic agreement and association with preclinical organ damage
Authors: Zeniodi Maria Elena , Ntineri Angeliki , Kollias Anastasios , Servos George , Moyssakis Ioannis , Destounis Antonios , Harokopakis Angelos , Vazeou Andriani , Stergiou George S.
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

To compare the association of home (HBP), ambulatory (ABP) and office blood pressure (OBP) measurements with preclinical organ damage in young individuals.

Methods:

Individuals referred for elevated blood pressure and healthy volunteers aged 6–25 years were evaluated with OBP (2–3 visits), 7-day HBP and 24-h ABP monitoring. Organ damage was assessed by echocardiographic left ventricular mass index (LVMI), carotid ultrasonography [intima--media thickness (IMT)] and pulse wave velocity (PWV) using piezo-electronic or oscillometric technique.

Results:

Analysis included 251 individuals (mean age 14 ± 3.9 years, 70.9% men: 31.1% children, 54.6% adolescents, 14.3% young adults) of whom 189 had LVMI, 123 IMT and 198 PWV measurements. Office, ambulatory and home hypertension was diagnosed in 29.5, 27.1 and 26.3% of participants. The agreement of OBP with ABP was 74.5% (kappa 0.37) and HBP 76.1% (kappa 0.41), with closer agreement between HBP and ABP (84.9%, kappa 0.61). LVMI gave comparable correlations with systolic OBP, 24-h ABP and HBP (r= 0.31/0.31/0.30, allP < 0.01). The same was the case for IMT (0.33/0.32/0.37, allP < 0.01) and piezo-electronic PWV (0.55/0.53/0.52, allP < 0.01), whereas oscillometric PWV gave stronger correlations with OBP than ABP or HBP. In linear regression analysis, the variation of LVMI was determined by night-time ABP, of IMT by HBP and of PWV by OBP and 24-h ABP.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that in young individuals, target organ damage is mainly determined by out-of-office rather than office BP. Home and ambulatory BP give comparable associations with preclinical organ damage.