bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic analysis provides insights into species distribution and population structure in East Atlantic horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus and T. capensis)
Authors: Healey Amy J. E. , Farthing Matthew W. , Nunoo Francis K. E. , Potts Warren M. , Sauer Warwick H. H. , Skujina Ilze , King Nathan , de Becquevort Sophie , Shaw Paul W. , McKeown Niall J.
Published: February 2020

Two sister species of horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus and T. capensis) are described that are intensively harvested in East Atlantic waters. To address long‐standing uncertainties as to their respective geographical ranges, overlap and intraspecific population structure this study combined genetic (mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite) analysis and targeted sampling of the hitherto understudied West African coast. mtDNA revealed two reciprocally monophyletic clades corresponding to each species with interspecies nuclear differentiation supported by FST values. The T. trachurus clade was found across the north‐east Atlantic down to Ghana but was absent from Angolan and South African samples. The T. capensis clade was found only in South Africa, Angola and a single Ghanaian individual. This pattern suggests that both species may overlap in the waters around Ghana. The potential for cryptic hybridization and/or indiscriminate harvesting of both species in the region is discussed. For T. capensis mtDNA supports high gene flow across the Benguela upwelling system, which fits with the species' ecology. The data add to evidence of a lack of significant genetic structure throughout the range of T. trachurus though the assumption of demographic panmixia is cautioned against. For both species, resolution of stock recruitment heterogeneity relevant to fishery management, as well as potential hybridization, will require more powerful genomic analyses.
Effect of radiotherapy on freedom from seizures in dogs with brain tumors
Authors: Monforte Monteiro Susana R. , Rossmeisl John H. , Russell Jason , Holmes Mark A. , Wessmann Annette , Morris Jo , Dobson Jane M. , Vanhaesebrouck An E.
Published: February 2020

Background

Seizures are a common presenting sign in dogs with brain tumors.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To investigate the effect of radiotherapy on freedom from brain tumor‐associated seizures and survival time in dogs.

Animals

Thirty‐two client‐owned dogs with brain tumor‐associated seizures; 18 received medical treatment and radiotherapy, 14 received medical treatment alone.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective study. Baseline characteristics (seizure semiology, magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] characteristics, and treatment) and duration of seizure freedom were recorded for the 2 treatment groups. Duration of seizure freedom between groups was compared (log‐rank test) using Cox's proportional hazard analysis, with baseline characteristics entered as covariates.

Results

The duration of seizure freedom and survival time were significantly longer in the radiotherapy group (P < .001), with a mean of 24 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 14.3‐33.8) versus 1.7 months in the control group (95% CI, 0.5‐2.9) and a mean of 34.6 months (95% CI: 25.2‐44.1) versus 6.2 months in the control group (95% CI, 2.6‐9.7) respectively. Baseline characteristics were not associated with duration of seizure freedom after the start of treatment. In the radiotherapy group, 5 dogs were euthanized during the study period because of causes other than seizures. In the control group, recurrence of seizures was observed before death in all dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A longer period of seizure freedom and longer survival time was observed in dogs with brain tumors after radiotherapy compared to medical treatment only. The pathophysiological mechanisms of epileptogenesis and the effect of radiation therapy on seizure control are unclear to date. Further prospective studies are needed.
Breathing Forth the Word: Yves Congar's Articulation of the Activity of The Holy Spirit In The Life of Christ
Authors: Brooks Adrian J.
Published: February 2020

Much of Yves M-J. Congar's O.P. (1904-1995) later work concentrates more explicitly on pneumatology, most famously his three-volume I believe in the Holy Spirit (1979-80). Writing shortly after its publication, Congar notes that “if he could draw only one conclusion from [his] studies on the Holy Spirit, it would concern the Spirit's bond with the Word. There is no breath without speaking or articulating something.” Congar later argues in The Word and the Spirit (1984) that the doctrines of pneumatology and Christology should not be treated separately but should inform and shape each other. This led him to develop what he termed a pneumatological Christology and a Christological pneumatology. A criticism that Congar dealt with on several occasions was that Catholic theology suffered from a form of Christomonism, whereby the Holy Spirit appeared to be subordinated to the Son, with dire consequences for the ecclesial life of the church. This essay briefly examines the accusation of Christomonism and evaluates Congar's response to it. It primarily does this by critically engaging with Congar's image of the Son as the Word and the Spirit as the Breath. As well as evaluating Congar's approach, this essay also suggests how his language could be expanded further.
Nectar robbers deter legitimate pollinators by mutilating flowers
Authors: Varma Sangeetha , Rajesh T. P. , Manoj K. , Asha G. , Jobiraj T. , Sinu Palatty Allesh
Published: February 2020

Nectar robbing – harvesting nectar illegitimately – can have a variety of outcomes for plant sexual reproduction and for the pollinator community. Nectar robbers can damage flowers while robbing nectar, which could affect the behavior of subsequent flower visitors and, consequently, plant reproduction. However, only nectar manipulation by nectar robbers has so far received attention. We found a short‐tongued bee, Hoplonomia sp. (Halictidae), mutilating the conspicuous lower petal of the zygomorphic flowers of Leucas aspera (Lamiaceae) while robbing nectar. We hypothesized that the mutilation of the conspicuous lower petal deters legitimate pollinators on L. aspera flowers, which, in turn, might affect plant reproduction. We first assessed the proportion of naturally‐robbed flowers in plant populations for three years to confirm that it was not a purely local phenomenon due to a few individual bees. We then studied diversity, community and visitation characteristics of pollinators, nectar dynamics and fruit set in unrobbed and robbed open flowers in naturally‐robbed populations. The proportion of robbed flowers varied significantly across sites and years. Robbing did not affect nectar dynamics in flowers, but it did alter flower morphology, so much so that it reduced pollinator visitation and altered the pollinator community on robbed flowers. However, the maternal function of plant reproduction was not affected by nectar robbing. This study for the first time shows that a nectar robber can have an ecologically significant impact on floral morphology.
Estimated basal metabolic rate and maintenance fluid volume in children: A proposal for a new equation
Authors: Amano Yoshiro
Published: February 2020

The basal metabolic rate (BMR) of children aged <2 years is proportional to their body weight (W; kg). However, no simple mathematical model for the estimation of BMR in children aged ≥2 years has been established. Based on Japanese studies on childhood BMR, conducted until the 1960s, we noted that childhood BMR (after infancy) is proportional to body weight to the power of 1/2 (W1/2). Moreover, we confirmed that the two previously reported equations for calculating BMR (Schofield’s equation and Oxford University’s equations) are proportional to W1/2. Based on these facts, we propose a new equation for the maintenance fluid volume for hospitalized children. Our equation (300 × W1/2 mL/day) gives values almost equal to the maintenance fluid volume calculated by the most commonly used equation of Holliday and Segar in children aged 2–18 years. Our equation will be useful for pediatricians to calculate the maintenance fluid volume for children in daily clinical settings.
Varieties of plenitude
Authors: Fairchild Maegan
Published: February 2020

Material Plenitude is the view that there is an abundance of coincident objects wherever there is any material object. Although plenitude has garnered increased attention from metaphysicians in recent years, it has yet to be well‐understood beyond its slogan from. The goal of this article is to explore a few places for puzzlement about plenitude; in particular, how we ought to motivate and formulate the target view. I'll suggest along the way that an investigation of plenitude is not merely of interest in its own right, but can provide valuable insights into abundant ontologies more generally.
Assessment of infectious complications in elderly kidney transplant recipients receiving induction with anti‐thymocyte globulin vs basiliximab
Authors: Pham Christine , Kuten Samantha A. , Knight Richard J. , Nguyen Duc T. , Graviss Edward A. , Gaber A Osama
Published: February 2020

Background

Elderly transplant recipients experience lower rates of acute rejection with higher rates of infectious complications compared to their younger counterparts. While less intensive immunosuppression may be preferable, there are no recommendations for depleting versus non‐depleting induction strategies. We sought to compare infectious complications between anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) and basiliximab (IL2RA) induction in elderly kidney transplant recipients (KTRs).

Methods

We reviewed 146 KTRs ≥65 years receiving ATG or IL2RA induction. Per institution protocol, ATG was administered to patients with the following characteristics, irrespective of age: African American (AA), PRA ≥20%, and/or re‐transplantation. Infectious complications (bacterial, viral, and invasive fungal) at 1 year were compared.

Results

There were significantly more AA, deceased donors, and sensitized KTRs in the ATG group, reflecting criteria for induction agent. ATG KTRs experienced higher rates of overall infectious complications (77% vs 56%,P = .01), driven by increased bacterial (54% vs 39%,P = .08) and viral infections (51% vs 35%,P = .05). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and CMV in particular occurred at high rates among ATG patients (46% and 32%, respectively). In multivariate analysis, the only independent risk factor associated with increased risk for infection was induction with ATG (adjusted HR 1.71 [95% CI 1.04‐2.83],P = .04). Overall rates of immunologic outcomes were low.

Conclusion

Elderly KTRs receiving ATG are at an increased risk for infectious complications, largely attributed to high rates of UTIs and CMV. Additional strategies aimed at mitigating these complications in elderly patients requiring ATG may be beneficial.
Predicting the duration of surgery and procedures in a veterinary referral center
Authors: Hasiuk Michelle M. M. , Pang Daniel S. J.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To evaluate the ability of veterinary personnel to predict the duration of surgery and associated procedures in a referral center.

Study design

Prospective observational study.

Sample population

Experienced surgeons (ES; n = 2, board certified for 10+ years), inexperienced surgeons (IS; n = 2, residency completed, not board certified), anesthesia animal health technicians (AAHT; n = 3) and surgery animal health technicians (SAHT; n = 2).

Methods

Surgeons and technicians predicted surgery duration (skin incision to final stitch/staple) and total procedure duration (TPD; from induction of anesthesia to extubation). Predictions were compared to actual durations with Bland–Altman plots to assess agreement (accuracy) as indicated by bias (mean of observed differences) and limits of agreement (LOA; bias ±1.96 SD).

Results

All groups underestimated TPD. Experienced surgeons predicted their own TPD more accurately (bias −20.1 ± 30.4 minutes [±SD]) and more consistently (narrower LOA) than IS for their own TPD (−40.1 ± 41.0 minutes). Experienced surgeon TPD predictions by AAHT were more accurate than those by ES (bias −16.0 ± 28.9 minutes, LOA 5% narrower). Inexperienced surgeon TPD predictions by AAHT were less consistent (wider LOA) than those by IS. Own surgery duration predictions by surgeons were similar in magnitude (ES surgery duration [ESSD] 8.3 ± 18.3, IS surgery duration [ISSD] surgery duration −7.9 ± 27.2 minutes), with greater consistency by ES (LOA 30% narrower). Anesthesia animal health technician predictions were similar to those of surgeons (ESSD 3.0 ± 19.3, ISSD −9.0 ± 28.7 minutes). Surgery animal health technician predictions were similar to those of AAHT for ESSD but were less accurate for ISSD.

Conclusion

Surgery duration was more accurately predicted than TPD, which was most accurately predicted by anesthesia technicians.

Clinical significance

Surgical procedure planning should involve personnel best able to predict total procedure durations; in this case, anesthesia technicians. Accurate planning will promote efficient operating room and personnel use.
Development of Mathematics Teacher’s Preparation Programs in the Light of STEM Education
Authors: Aloraini Seham Abdulrahman Sulayman
Published: February 2020

The study aimed to reveal the reality of keeping pace with the preparation programs of mathematics teachers to the requirements of STEM education and develop a suggested scenario for the development of mathematics teacher preparation programs in the light of the requirements of STEM. To this end, the analytical descriptive method was conducted, and the researcher built a list of requirements in the light of STEM education which should be included in the programs of preparation of mathematics teachers. The questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. The study sample consisted of (47) faculty members in the preparation programs of mathematics teachers in Saudi universities.The main findings were as follows: (1) to build a list of STEM education requirements that should be included in the math teacher preparation programs, (2) the availability of professional competence of pre-service mathematics teachers in the light of the STEM was weak (M=1.49, 50%), (3) the commitment of mathematics students-teachers to improve the performance of learners with a medium means of 2.19, and 73%, (4) the use of mathematics students-teachers established the foundations of highly systematic thinking, is high, with means an average of 2.37 and 79%, and (5) the interaction of mathematics students-teachers in the educational community is high, with means of 2.46, and 82%. On the basis of these results, a proposed development of programs for the preparation of mathematics teachers in Saudi universities was developed.
Bilevel Flexible-Robust Optimization for Energy Allocation Problems
Authors: Biswas Arpan , Chen Yong , Gibson Nathan , Hoyle Christopher
Published: February 2020

A common issue in energy allocation problems is managing the tradeoff between selling surplus energy to maximize short-term revenue, versus holding surplus energy to hedge against future shortfalls. For energy allocation problems, this surplus represents resource flexibility. The decision maker has an option to sell or hold the flexibility for future use. As a decision in the current period can affect future decisions significantly, future risk evaluation of uncertainties is recommended for the current decision in which a traditional robust optimization is not efficient. Therefore, an approach to flexible-robust optimization has been formulated by integrating a real options (RO) model with the robust optimization framework. In the energy problem, the real option model evaluates the future risk, and provides the value of holding flexibility, whereas the robust optimization quantifies uncertainty and provides a robust solution of net revenue by selling flexibility. This problem is solved using bilevel programming and a complete general mathematical formulation of bilevel flexible-robust optimization model is presented for multireservoir systems and results shown to provide an efficient decision making process in energy sectors. To reduce the computational expense, mathematical techniques have been used in the proposed model to reduce the dimension in the quantification and propagation of uncertainties.
In the heat of the night
Authors: Lazzari Claudio R.
Published: February 2020

An ancestral receptor plays a key role in host detection by malaria-carrying mosquitoes
P2Y12 inhibitors with oral anticoagulation for percutaneous coronary intervention with atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lupercio Florentino , Giancaterino Shaun , Villablanca Pedro Arturo , Han Frederick , Hoffmayer Kurt , Ho Gordon , Raissi Farshad , Krummen David , Birgersdotter-Green Ulrika , Feld Gregory , Reeves Ryan , Mahmud Ehtisham , Hsu Jonathan C
Published: February 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of third-generation P2Y12 inhibitors versus clopidogrel in combination with oral anticoagulation (OAC) with or without aspirin in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

We performed a systematic review including both prospective and retrospective studies that compared dual and triple antithrombotic regimens for bleeding and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with AF undergoing PCI. We analysed rates of bleeding and MACE by P2Y12 inhibitor choice. Risk ratio (RR) 95% CIs were measured using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Where study heterogeneity was low (I2 <25%), we used the fixed effects model, otherwise the random effects model was used.

Results

A total of 22 014 patients were analysed from the seven studies included. Among patients treated with both OAC and P2Y12 inhibitor with or without aspirin, 90% (n=9708) were treated with clopidogrel, 8% (n=830) with ticagrelor, and 2% (n=191) with prasugrel. When compared with clopidogrel, use of ticagrelor (RR 1.36; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.57) and prasugrel (RR 2.11; 95% CI 1.34 to 3.30) were associated with increased rates of bleeding. Compared with clopidogrel, there were no significant differences in rates of MACE with ticagrelor (RR 1.03; 95% CI 0.65 to 1.62) or prasugrel (RR 1.49; 95% CI 0.69 to 3.24).

Conclusion

Based on this meta-analysis, the use of clopidogrel is associated with a lower rate of bleeding compared with ticagrelor or prasugrel in patients with AF on OAC undergoing PCI.
Twelve-year single critical care center experience of nicardipine prolonged-release implants in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Kuroi Yasuhiro , Ohbuchi Hidenori , Arai Naoyuki , Takahashi Yuichi , Hagiwara Shinji , Sasahara Atsushi , Funaki Ayako , Itoh Toshimasa , Sato Yasunori , Kasuya Hidetoshi
Published: February 2020

Objective

To develop a nicardipine prolonged-release implant (NPRI) to prevent cerebral vasospasm in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage in 1999, which may be used during craniotomy, and report the results of our recent 12-year single critical care center experience.

Methods

Of 432 patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage treated between 2007 and 2019, 291 were enrolled. 97 Patients were aged >70 years (33%), 194 were female (67%), 138 were World Federation of Neurological Societies grades 1, 2, and 3 (47%), 218 were Fisher group 3 (75%), and 243 had an anterior circulation aneurysm (84%). Using a propensity score matching method for these five factors, the severity of cerebral vasospasm, occurrence of delayed cerebral infarction, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge were analyzed.

Results

One hundred patients each with or without NPRI were selected, and the ratios of coil/clip were 0/100 and 88/12, respectively. Cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral infarction were both significantly less common in the NPRI group (p=0.004, OR=0.412 (95% CI 0.223 to 0.760) and p=0.005, OR=0.272 (95% CI 0.103 to 0.714, respectively); a significant difference was seen in the mRS score at discharge by Fisher’s exact test (p=0.0025). A mRS score of 6 (dead) was less common in the group with NPRI, and mRS scores of 0 and 1 were also less common. No side effects were seen.

Conclusions

NPRIs significantly reduced the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral infraction without any side effects. The NPRI and non-NPRI groups showed different patterns of short-term outcomes in the single critical care center, which might have been due to selection bias and patient characteristics. Differences in outcomes may become clear in comparisons with patients treated by craniotomy.
Fragmentation analysis of 105Ag∗ nucleus governed via complete and incomplete fusion channels at Ec.m. = 89MeV
Authors: Sharma Ishita , Sharma Manoj K.
Published: February 2020

A systematic study of dynamical aspects associated with heavy-ion-induced [Formula: see text] reaction is carried out at center-of-mass energy [Formula: see text] MeV. The complete fusion (CF) and incomplete fusion (ICF) contributions are estimated by using the dynamical cluster-decay model (DCM). The incomplete fusion component is examined by normalizing the incident beam energy for each of the breakup fragment. The fusion evaporation cross-sections that emerged from CF and ICF channels are duly addressed using the optimized value of neck-length parameter [Formula: see text]. Further, the mass yield of compound nuclei (CN) formed in the CF and ICF processes is analyzed with respect to angular momentum [Formula: see text] values. The DCM-based calculations indicate the possible contribution of deep inelastic collision (DIC) in the decay of [Formula: see text] at higher [Formula: see text] values, and DIC cross-sections are predicted which call for future validation.
Tip-Over Stability Analysis of a Pelvic Support Walking Robot
Authors: Han Yawei , Guo Shuai , Zhang Leigang , Xi Fengfeng (Jeff) , Lu Weiwei
Published: February 2020

Discussed in this paper is the tip-over stability analysis of a pelvic support walking robot. To improve the activities of daily living (ADL) in hemiplegic patients, a pelvic support walking robot is proposed to help patients facilitating their rehabilitation. During the gait training with the robot, the abnormal man-machine interaction forces may lead to the tip-over of the robot, which is not beneficial to the rehabilitation process. A new method is proposed to predict the possibility of tipping over and evaluate the stability of the robot based on statics model, dynamics model, and zero-moment point (ZMP) theory. Through the interaction forces and moments analysis with static case, the safe point (ZMP) is studied, and the influence factors of force/moment are analyzed by dynamics case. An optimization algorithm based on the genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed to reduce the risk of tipping over. The simulation results show that the optimization algorithm can keep the robot from tipping over when the interaction forces exceed the safety threshold.
Association of Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme Insertion/287 bp Deletion Polymorphisms and Proliferative Prostatic Diseases among Lebanese Men
Authors: El Ezzi Asmahan A. , Clawson Jordan M. , El-Saidi Mohammed A. , Zaidan Wissam R. , Kovash Abigail , Orellana Jeremy , Thornock AnnaKarina , Kuddus Ruhul H.
Published: February 2020

Background. Angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) insertion (I) and 287 bp Alu repeat DNA fragment deletion (D) polymorphisms have been indicated in various cancers. Here, we investigated I/D polymorphisms in prostate cancer (PCa) and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) among Lebanese men. Methods. Blood DNA extracted from 69 control subjects, 69 subjects with clinically confirmed PCa, and 69 subjects with clinical BPH, all the subjects were aged 50 years or older, was subjected to the polymerase chain reaction. The PCR products were resolved in polyacrylamide gels to determine II, ID, and DD genotypes. The odds ratios (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CI), and p values of the allele frequencies and genotype ratios were calculated for establishing possible association of the alleles and/or genotypes and PCa and/or BPH. Results. The proportions of II, ID, and DD genotypes were significantly different from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for BPH and PCa groups (but not the control group), mostly due to overabundance of the ID genotypes. There was no significant difference in the I and D allele frequencies between the control groups and the affected groups. The ratio of (DD + ID)/II is significantly lower among the control group compared to the BPH group (RR = 8.92, p=0.042), and the ratio of ID/(DD + II) is significantly lower among the control group compared to the affected groups (RR = 1.99, p=0.021). Conclusions. Our data indicate that the D allele of the I/D polymorphisms of the ACE gene is associated with increased risk of BPH, and the ID genotype is a risk factor for both BPH and PCa among Lebanese males.
Two-Step Extended Sampling Method for the Inverse Acoustic Source Problem
Authors: Sun Jiyu , Han Yuhui
Published: February 2020

Recently, a new method, called the extended sampling method (ESM), was proposed for the inverse scattering problems. Similar to the classical linear sampling method (LSM), the ESM is simple to implement and fast. Compared to the LSM which uses full-aperture scattering data, the ESM only uses the scattering data of one incident wave. In this paper, we generalize the ESM for the inverse acoustic source problems. We show that the indicator function of ESM, which is defined using the approximated solutions of some linear ill-posed integral equations, is small when the support of the source is contained in the sampling disc and is large when the source is outside. This behavior is similar to the ESM for the inverse scattering problem. Numerical examples are presented to show the effectiveness of the method.
Sexual Differences in response to Mid- or Low-Premixed Insulin Analogue in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liu Bing-li , Liu Xiao-mei , Ren Yi-fei , Sun Yi-Xuan , Luo Meng-hui , Ye Lei , Ma Jian-hua , Li Feng-fei
Published: February 2020

Objective. To observe whether there are sexual-related differences in response to mid- or low-premixed insulin in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods. This was an analysis of CGM data of a previous study. After screening, patients with longstanding T2D receive a 7-day continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy, and then subjects were randomly assigned 1 : 1 into two groups receiving Novo Mix 30 or Humalog Mix 50 regimen for a 2-day phage, followed by a 4-day cross-over period. A 4-day continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was performed during the cross-over period. The primary endpoint was the differences in glycemic control between male and female patients receiving mid- or low-premixed insulin therapy. Results. A total of 102 patients (52 men and 50 women) completed the study. Our data showed that male patients had significant decrease in mean glucose levels monitored by CGM after three meals during Humalog Mix 50 treatment period compared to those received Novo Mix 30 regimen (0900: 11.0±2.5 vs. 12.2±2.8, 1000: 9.9±2.9 vs. 11.3±3.1, 1200: 8.0±1.9 vs. 9.1±2.5, 1400: 9.2±2.3 vs. 10.3±2.5, and 2000: 7.3±2.1 vs. 8.2±2.4 mmol/L, p<0.05, respectively). In addition, male patients receiving Novo Mix 30 experienced a significantly increased hypoglycemic duration compared to those of receiving Humalog Mix 50 (0 (0, 4.8) vs. 0 (0, 0), p<0.05). Conclusion. Our data indicate that male patients with T2D receiving mid-premixed insulin analogue regimen may have a potential benefit of improvement in glycemic control compared to female patients. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov ChiCTR-IPR-15007340.
Tracheostomy Complications in the Emergency Department: A National Analysis of 38,271 Cases
Authors: Kligerman Maxwell P. , Saraswathula Anirudh , Sethi Rosh K. , Divi Vasu
Published: February 2020

Background: Greater than 100,000 tracheotomies are performed annually in the USA, yet little is known regarding patients who present to the emergency department (ED) with tracheostomy complications. Objectives: To characterize patient and hospital characteristics, outcomes, and charges associated with tracheostomy complications and to identify predictors of admission and mortality. Methods: The 2009–2011 Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS) was queried for patients with a principle diagnosis of tracheostomy complication. A descriptive analysis was performed and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of admission and mortality. Results: A total of 69,371 nationwide visits to the ED had tracheostomy complication as an associated ICD-9 diagnosis, of which 55.2% (n = 38,293) carried a primary diagnosis of tracheostomy complication. Unspecified tracheostomy complications were most common (61.4%), followed by mechanical complications (31.3%), and lastly by tracheostomy infections (7.3%). Pediatric patients were significantly more likely to have tracheostomy infections than adults (p < 0.0001). A total of 35.5% of patients with tracheostomy complications were admitted to the hospital, and death occurred with 1.4% of visits. Patients from higher-income ZIP codes had increased odds of admission (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.35; p = 0.0009), as did patients with tracheostomy infections (OR: 4.425; p < 0.0001). Patients with tracheostomy infections (OR: 3.14; p = 0.0062) and unspecified tracheostomy complications (OR: 2.00; p = 0.0076) had increased odds of mortality. Conclusion: These findings may help improve overall outcomes amongst patients with tracheostomies by preventing unnecessary ED admissions and improving healthcare provider preparedness and awareness.
Plasma Metabolomics Profiling in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients Based on Liquid Chromatography Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Yu , Wen Ping , Yang Junwei , Niu Jianying
Published: February 2020

Background: Key pathogenetic mechanisms underlying renal disease progression are unaffected by current treatment. Metabolite profiling has significantly contributed to a deeper understanding of the biochemical metabolic networks and pathways in disease, but the biochemical details in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients remain largely undefined. Methods: The metabolic fingerprinting of plasma samples from 19 MHD patients and 12 healthy controls was characterized using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were applied to analyze the metabolic data. Results: The plasma metabolite profile distinguished the MHD patients from the healthy controls successfully by using both PCA and OPLS-DA models. Sixty-three metabolites were identified as the key metabolites to discriminate the MHD patients from healthy controls, involving several metabolic pathways (all p < 0.05). An increase in plasma levels of D-glucose, hippuric acid, androsterone glucuronide, indolelactic acid, and a reduction in plasma levels of glycerophosphocholine, serotonin, L-lactic acid, phytosphingosine, and several lysophosphatidylcholine were observed in MHD patients compared to healthy subjects. Metabolomics analysis combined with KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, choline metabolism in cancer, the forkhead box O signaling pathway, and the hypoxia-inducible factor-1 signaling pathway in MHD patients were significantly changed (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The identification of a novel signaling pathway and key metabolite markers in MHD patients provides insights into potential pathogenesis and valuable pharmacological targets for end-stage renal disease.
Development and Longevity: Cellular and Molecular Determinants – A Mini-Review
Authors: Marchionni Silvia , Sell Christian , Lorenzini Antonello
Published: February 2020

Across species, development and longevity are tightly linked. We discuss the relevant literature and suggest that the root for this stringent relationship is the rate of development. The basis for the relationship between rate of development and longevity lies in adaptations that have occurred through evolution at multiple levels of biological complexity: organism, organ, cellular, and molecular. Thus, the analysis of the relationship is of interest for multiple fields of biology.
Evaluation of Biodegradable Stent Graft Coatings in Pig and Rabbit Models
Authors: Taavitsainen Jouni , Tarvainen Santeri , Kuivanen Antti , Mangiardi Eric K. , Guelcher Manfred , Martin John , Mathur Anthony , Hytönen Jarkko P. , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo
Published: February 2020

Aims: Percutaneous coronary intervention is routinely performed to treat occlusive coronary artery disease. Coronary perforation is a potential complication and can be treated with a stent graft. Current stent grafts are associated with high restenosis rates. We tested the safety and feasibility of biodegradable stent grafts in pig and rabbit models. Methods and Results: Stent grafts were examined in pig coronaries with repeated OCT imaging for 42 days. Novel biodegradable coatings were applied on a bare metal stent by either an electrospinning (ES) or dip coating (DC) method. A completely biodegradable system was made by ES coating a magnesium-based stent. A commercially available stent graft served as a control. ES devices showed less restenosis (44.3 ± 8.8 vs. 59.1 ± 11.1% in controls, p < 0.05) and smaller reduction in minimum lumen area (44.3 ± 13.4 vs. 64.4 ± 13.6% in controls, p < 0.05) at day 42. DC devices occluded during follow-up. ES devices showed recanalization through the graft wall at day 42. Feasibility of the ES and DC devices was evaluated in pig coronary aneurysms and rabbit aortic perforation models and sealed aneurysms and perforations without complications. Conclusions: Recanalization of the graft wall improves biocompatibility. Biodegradable stent grafts may present an alternative to permanent implants by showing reduced restenosis at day 42.
A new species of the genus Xya Latreille, 1809 from Fujian, China (Orthoptera, Tridctyloidea, Tridactylidae)
Authors: CAO CHENG-QUAN , CHEN SHEN-ZHI , YIN ZHAN
Published: February 2020

The genus Xya Latreille, 1808 obtains 58 known species in the world, among them 18 species distributed in Asia and 8 species in China only i.e. Xya japonica (Haan, 1842), Xya riparia (Saussure, 1877), Xya nitobei (Shiraki, 1911), Xya apicicornis (Chopard, 1928), Xya manchurei Shiraki, 1936, Xya lehsanensis Cao et al, 2017, Xya sichuanensis Cao et al, 2018, Xya shandongensis, Zhang et al, 2018; [Latreille, 1809; Haan, 1844; Walker, 1871; Saussure, 1877, 1896; Brunner von Wattenwyl. 1893; Bolivar, 1900(1899); Shiraki,1911, 1936; Chopard, 1920, 1928, 1936, 1968; Tindale, 1928; Willemse, 1954; Bey-Bienko, 1967; Harz, 1970, 1971; Günther, 1974, 1978, 1980, 1982, 1990, 1995, 1998; Ingrisch, 1987, 2006; Baehr, 1988; Yin et al, 1996; Murai, 2005; Yin et al, 2013; Heads & Hollier, 2016; Kuravova & Kocarek, 2016; Cao et al, 2017; Cao et al, 2018; Zhang et al, 2018; Cigliano, et al, 2019]. In the present paper, a new species of the genus Xya Latreille, 1809 from Fujian, China is described. The new species Xya fujianensis sp. nov. is similar to Xya lehsanensis Cao et al, 2017, but differs from the latter by head black, with a yellow band along inner margin of eye; pronotum black, with a white band on the lower margin; fore wing black, with two yellow spots near base and two yellow spots near top and hind femur black with two large yellow spots on upper side. Type specimens are deposited in the College of Life Science, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614004, China.
Effects of Discipline-Specific Strategy Instruction on Historical Writing Growth of Students With Writing Difficulties
Authors: Wissinger Daniel R. , De La Paz Susan
Published: February 2020

This article reports the results from a study investigating the effects of a discipline-specific reading and writing intervention (I3C/PROVE IT!) with fourth and fifth graders. Participants included 237 students with writing difficulties (WD) from an initial pool of 608 upper elementary school students in a larger study. Teachers and students were randomly assigned to I3C/PROVE IT! or business-as-usual conditions and then provided instruction on reading historical documents and writing evidence-based arguments. Findings indicated that over a period of almost 3 months, the historical writing growth trajectories of students with WD in I3C/PROVE IT! classrooms were significantly greater than their peers in business-as-usual classrooms. Significant findings favoring I3C/PROVE IT! students also generalized to domain-general measures. This study provides evidence for the benefits of discipline-specific interventions in social studies for students with WD. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
The clinical efficacy and experience of bipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with postural reduction in the treatment of Kümmell’s disease
Authors: Jiang Jiang , Gu Fu-long , Li Zhong-wei , Zhou Yi
Published: February 2020

Background

Kümmell’s disease is a special type of osteoporotic vertebral fracture that causes chronic low back pain and deformity, which seriously affects the living quality of patients. PVP is commonly used to treat osteoporotic vertebral fractures and can quickly relieve low back pain. So, the objective of this study was to analyze the clinical efficacy and experience of bipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with postural reduction for the treatment of Kümmell’s disease.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients with Kümmell’s disease who underwent bipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty was conducted from February 2016 to May 2018. Operative time, VAS, bone cement injection volume, cement leakage rate, compression improvement of vertebral front edge and vertebral center, and correction degree of kyphosis were collected and analyzed meticulously.

Results

The operative time was 45.33 ± 7.64 min. The volume of bone cement injected was 5.38 ± 1.33 ml. The compression improvement of vertebral front edge was 7.31 ± 1.21%. The compression improvement of vertebral center was 10.34 ± 1.15% and the correction degree of kyphosis was − 2.73 ± 0.31゜. Bone cement leakage occurred in 6 of 39 patients (15.38%), but no clinical symptoms were observed. The VAS scores were significantly lower at 1 day after the surgery, 6 months and at the last follow-up than before the surgery (P = 0.000, respectively). The VAS score was lower at the last follow-up than at 1 day after the surgery (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Bipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with postural reduction could achieve satisfactory analgesic effect in the treatment of Kümmell’s disease, and restore the height of the vertebral body and improve kyphosis to some extent.
Sex differences in lymphoid follicles in COPD airways
Authors: Tam Anthony , Tanabe Naoya , Churg Andrew , Wright Joanne L. , Hogg James C. , Sin Don D.
Published: February 2020

Background

Female smokers have increased risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) compared with male smokers who have a similar history of cigarette smoke exposure. Tertiary lymphoid follicles are often found in the lungs of patients with severe COPD but sex-related differences have not been previously investigated. We determined the impact of female sex hormones on chronic cigarette smoke-induced expression of lymphoid aggregates in mice with COPD-like pathologies.

Methods

Lymphoid aggregate counts, total aggregate cross-sectional area and foamy macrophage counts were determined morphometrically in male, female, and ovariectomized mice exposed to air or cigarette smoke for 6 months. B-cell activating factor (BAFF) protein expression and markers of oxidative stress were evaluated in mouse lung tissues by immunofluorescence staining and gene expression analyses. Quantitative histology was performed on lung tissue sections of human COPD lungs to evaluate follicle formation.

Results

Lymphoid follicle and foamy macrophage counts as well as the total follicle cross-sectional area were differentially increased in lung tissues of female mice compared to male mice, and these differences were abolished by ovariectomy. These lymphoid aggregates were positive for CD45, CD20, CD21 and BAFF expression. Differential increases in Mmp12 and Cxcl2 gene expression correlated with an increase in foamy macrophages in parenchymal tissues of female but not male mice after smoke exposure. Parenchymal tissues from female mice failed to induce antioxidant-related genes in response to smoke exposure, and this effect was restored by ovariectomy. 3-nitrotyrosine, a stable marker of oxidative stress, positively correlated with Mmp12 and Cxcl2 gene expression. Hydrogen peroxide induced BAFF protein in mouse macrophage cell line. In human lung tissues, female smokers with severe COPD demonstrated increased numbers of lymphoid follicles compared with males.

Conclusions

Chronic smoke exposure increases the risk of lymphoid aggregate formation in female mice compared with male mice, which is mediated female sex hormones and BAFF expression in an oxidative environment.
What we can do? The risk factors for multi-drug resistant infection in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU): a case-control study
Authors: Wang Zaihua , Xia Zhongfang
Published: February 2020

Background

The risk factors for multi-drug resistant infection (MDRI) in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) remain unclear. It’s necessary to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors for MDRI in PICU, to provide insights into the prophylaxis of MDRI clinically.

Methods

Clinical data of 79 PICU children with MDRI were identified, and 80 children in PICU without MDRI in the same period were selected as control group. The related children’s characteristics, clinical care, microbiologic data, treatments provided, and outcomes of the patients with were reviewed and collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the potential risks of MDRI in PICU.

Results

Of the diagnosed 79 cases of MDRI, there were28 cases of CR-AB, 24 cases of MRSA, 22 cases of PDR-PA,3 cases of VRE and 2 cases of CRE respectively. Univariate analyses indicated that the length of PICU stay, the duration of mechanical ventilation > 5 days, parenteral nutrition, coma, urinary catheter indwelling, invasive operation, 2 or more antibiotics use were associated with MDRIs (all p < 0.05); The logistic multiple regression analyses indicated that coma, parenteral nutrition, 2 or more antibiotics use and the duration of mechanical ventilation > 5 days were independent risk factors associated with MDRI (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This present study has identified several potentially modifiable risk factors for MDRI in PICU, it’s conducive to take appropriate measures targeting risk factors of MDRI for health care providers to reduce MDRI.
Essential concepts are missing: Foreign DNA in food invades the organisms’ cells and can lead to stochastic epigenetic alterations with a wide range of possible pathogenetic consequences
Authors: Doerfler Walter
Published: February 2020

In this article, a new concept for general pathogenesis has been proposed. Advances in molecular genetics have led to the realization that essential concepts in the framework of molecular biology are still missing. Clinical medicine is plagued by similar shortcomings: The questioning of current paradigms could open new vistas and invite challenging approaches. This article presents an unconventional idea. Foreign DNA which is regularly ingested with the essential food supply is not completely degraded. Small quantities of fragmented DNA rather persist transiently in the gastro-intestinal tract of mice and can be traced to various organ systems, except for cells in the germ line. Foreign DNA entering and persisting in mammalian cells can stochastically lead to genome-wide alterations of transcriptional and CpG DNA methylation profiles. In the course of food-ingested DNA invading somatic cells, completely new cell types can be generated which might be involved in the causation of common ailments. Projects emanating from this perception merit critical analysis and rigorous pursuit.
Artefacts in contrast enhanced digital mammography: how can they affect diagnostic image quality and confuse clinical diagnosis?
Authors: Nori Jacopo , Gill Maninderpal Kaur , Vignoli Chiara , Bicchierai Giulia , De Benedetto Diego , Di Naro Federica , Vanzi Ermanno , Boeri Cecilia , Miele Vittorio
Published: February 2020

Contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) is a diagnostic tool for breast cancer detection. Artefacts are observed in about 10% of CEDM examinations. Understanding CEDM artefacts is important to prevent diagnostic misinterpretation. In this article, we have described the artefacts that we have commonly encountered in clinical practice; we hope to ease the recognition and help troubleshoot solutions to prevent or minimise them.
Allo-antibody production after intraarticular administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in an equine osteoarthritis model: effect of repeated administration, MSC inflammatory stimulation, and equine leukocyte antigen (ELA) compatibility
Authors: Barrachina Laura , Cequier Alina , Romero Antonio , Vitoria Arantza , Zaragoza Pilar , Vázquez Francisco José , Rodellar Clementina
Published: February 2020

Background

Antibody production after allogeneic administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could impact their clinical application. Proinflammatory priming of MSCs can potentiate their regulatory ability in vivo but increased expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) might augment their immunogenicity, potentially leading to immune memory thus limiting repeated allogeneic administration. This study aimed at evaluating the production of cytotoxic allo-antibodies directed against donor’s ELA (equine leukocyte antigen) in mismatched and halfmatched horses receiving repeated intraarticular administration of stimulated MSCs (MSC-primed) and unstimulated MSCs (MSC-naïve) in pathologic joints.

Methods

From available stored samples from a previous in vivo study, cells from one donor and serially collected sera (five time-points) from three groups of recipients were used based on their ELA haplotypes to perform microcytotoxicity assays: Group 1 recipients mismatched with the donor that received MSC-naïve (naïve-mismatched recipients); Group 2 recipients mismatched with the donor that received MSC-primed (primed-mismatched recipients); Group 3 recipients halfmatched with the donor (sharing 1/2 haplotypes) that received MSC-primed (primed-halfmatched recipients). Sera from recipients (neat, 1:2 and 1:16 dilution) were tested against target cells from the donor (cryopreserved and expanded MSC-naïve and MSC-primed) or from one animal presenting the same ELA haplotypes than the donor (fresh peripheral blood lymphocytes as control).

Results

One to three weeks after first MSC administration, all recipient groups produced allo-antibodies regardless of MSC received (naïve or primed) and matching degree with donor. However, secondary response after MSC re-exposure was less evident in halfmatched recipients (MSC-primed) than in mismatched ones (both MSC-naïve and MSC-primed). Recipients of MSC-primed (both mismatched and halfmatched) tended towards developing lower antibody response than MSC-naïve recipients in vivo, but MSC-primed were targeted to death in higher percentage in vitro in the microcytoxicity assay.

Conclusions

After first intraarticular allogeneic administration, the immunomodulatory profile of MSC-primed would have led to lower antibody production, but these antibodies would target more easily MSC-primed after second injection (re-exposure), likely because of their higher MHC expression.