bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Keck Baryonic Structure Survey: using foreground/background galaxy pairs to trace the structure and kinematics of circumgalactic neutral hydrogen at z ∼ 2
Authors: Chen Yuguang , Steidel Charles C , Hummels Cameron B , Rudie Gwen C , Dong Bili , Trainor Ryan F , Bogosavljević Milan , Erb Dawn K , Pettini Max , Reddy Naveen A , Shapley Alice E , Strom Allison L , Theios Rachel L , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Hopkins Philip F , Kereš Dušan
Published: September 2020

We present new measurements of the spatial distribution and kinematics of neutral hydrogen in the circumgalactic and intergalactic medium surrounding star-forming galaxies at z ∼ 2. Using the spectra of ≃3000 galaxies with redshifts 〈z〉 = 2.3 ± 0.4 from the Keck Baryonic Structure Survey, we assemble a sample of more than 200 000 distinct foreground-background pairs with projected angular separations of 3–500 arcsec and spectroscopic redshifts, with 〈zfg〉 = 2.23 and 〈zbg〉 = 2.57 (foreground, background redshifts, respectively.) The ensemble of sightlines and foreground galaxies is used to construct a 2D map of the mean excess $\rm{H\,{\small I}}$$\rm Ly\,\alpha$ optical depth relative to the intergalactic mean as a function of projected galactocentric distance (20 ≲ Dtran/pkpc ≲ 4000) and line-of-sight velocity. We obtain accurate galaxy systemic redshifts, providing significant information on the line-of-sight kinematics of $\rm{H\,{\small I}}$ gas as a function of projected distance Dtran. We compare the map with cosmological zoom-in simulation, finding qualitative agreement between them. A simple two-component (accretion, outflow) analytical model generally reproduces the observed line-of-sight kinematics and projected spatial distribution of $\rm{H\,{\small I}}$. The best-fitting model suggests that galaxy-scale outflows with initial velocity vout ≃ 600 km s$^{-1}\,$ dominate the kinematics of circumgalactic $\rm{H\,{\small I}}$ out to Dtran ≃ 50 kpc, while $\rm{H\,{\small I}}$ at Dtran ≳ 100 kpc is dominated by infall with characteristic vin ≲ circular velocity. Over the impact parameter range 80 ≲ Dtran/pkpc ≲ 200, the $\rm{H\,{\small I}}$ line-of-sight velocity range reaches a minimum, with a corresponding flattening in the rest-frame $\rm Ly\,\alpha$ equivalent width. These observations can be naturally explained as the transition between outflow-dominated and accretion-dominated flows. Beyond Dtran ≃ 300 pkpc (∼1 cMpc), the line-of-sight kinematics are dominated by Hubble expansion.
Coupling thermal evolution of planets and hydrodynamic atmospheric escape in mesa
Authors: Kubyshkina Daria , Vidotto Aline A , Fossati Luca , Farrell Eoin
Published: September 2020

The long-term evolution of hydrogen-dominated atmospheres of sub-Neptune-like planets is mostly controlled to by two factors: a slow dissipation of the gravitational energy acquired at the formation (known as thermal evolution) and atmospheric mass-loss. Here, we use mesa to self-consistently couple the thermal evolution model of lower atmospheres with a realistic hydrodynamical atmospheric evaporation prescription. To outline the main features of such coupling, we simulate planets with a range of core masses (5–20 M⊕) and initial atmospheric mass fractions (0.5–30 per cent), orbiting a solar-like star at 0.1 au. In addition to our computed evolutionary tracks, we also study the stability of planetary atmospheres, showing that the atmospheres of light planets can be completely removed within 1 Gyr and that compact atmospheres have a better survival rate. From a detailed comparison between our results and the output of the previous-generation models, we show that coupling between thermal evolution and atmospheric evaporation considerably affects the thermal state of atmospheres for low-mass planets and, consequently, changes the relationship between atmospheric mass fraction and planetary parameters. We, therefore, conclude that self-consistent consideration of the thermal evolution and atmospheric evaporation is of crucial importance for evolutionary modelling and a better characterization of planetary atmospheres. From our simulations, we derive an analytical expression between planetary radius and atmospheric mass fraction at different ages. In particular, we find that, for a given observed planetary radius, the predicted atmospheric mass fraction changes as age0.11.
Cytomegalovirus after kidney transplantation in 2020: moving towards personalized prevention
Authors: Hellemans Rachel , Abramowicz Daniel
Published: September 2020

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)-related complications after kidney transplantation remain a substantial challenge. Rather than applying one preventive strategy to all at-risk patients, we can now adapt our strategy at the individual patient level. Antiviral prophylaxis or a strict pre-emptive strategy may be optimal for patients at the highest risk for CMV, while patients at lower risk may benefit particularly from pre-emptive monitoring and the administration of therapy only if needed. CMV-specific T-cell assays may be useful for further refining the pre-transplant determination of CMV risk, and for guiding decisions about antiviral therapy need or duration. An immunosuppressive regimen including a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor reduces CMV risk and may thus be an attractive option in some patients. New antiviral agents may further expand our therapeutic arsenal in the near future, and the prospects of CMV vaccination and adoptive T-cell therapy appear to be on the horizon.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae-Induced Rash and Mucositis in a Previously Healthy Man: A Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Gandelman Jocelyn S , Kim Elizabeth Y , Grzegorczyk Anne M , Zejnullahu Kreshnik , Edson Randall S
Published: September 2020

We describe a case of a 33-year-old-male with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-induced rash and mucositis and review the literature on this newly described syndrome.
Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: A Pragmatic Effectiveness Trial of a Nonpharmacologic Alternative for the Treatment of Postoperative Pain
Authors: Ilfeld Brian M , Gelfand Harold , Dhanjal Sandeep , Hackworth Robert , Plunkett Anthony , Turan Alparslan , Vijjeswarapu Alice M , Cohen Steven P , Eisenach James C , Griffith Scott , Hanling Steven , Mascha Edward J , Sessler Daniel I
Published: September 2020

Background

Percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is an analgesic modality involving the insertion of a lead through an introducer needle followed by the delivery of electric current after needle withdrawal. This modality has been used extensively to treat chronic pain, but only small series have been published involving postoperative pain. The ultimate objective of this study is to determine the postoperative effects of percutaneous PNS following moderately to severely painful ambulatory surgery within a real-world clinical practice setting. The primary hypothesis is that surgical pain and opioid consumption during the initial 7 days after surgery will be reduced by percutaneous PNS compared with usual and customary analgesia (dual primary outcome measures).

Design

A multicenter pragmatic effectiveness trial. We are randomizing participants having painful orthopedic surgical procedures of the upper and lower extremity to receive 14 days of either 1) electrical stimulation or 2) sham in a double-masked fashion. End points are being assessed at various time points over 12 postoperative months.

The postoperative experience will be much improved if percutaneous PNS provides potent analgesia while concurrently decreasing opioid requirements following painful surgery. Because this modality can be administered for up to 60 days at home, it may provide postoperative analgesia that outlasts surgical pain yet has relatively few risks and, unlike opioids, has no systemic side effects or potential for abuse, addiction, and overdose. Percutaneous PNS has the potential to revolutionize postoperative analgesia as it has been practiced for the past century. This study will inform key stakeholders regarding an evidence-based nonpharmacologic approach to the management of postoperative pain.
Targeting Chronic Pain in Primary Care Settings by Using Behavioral Health Consultants: Methods of a Randomized Pragmatic Trial
Authors: Goodie Jeffrey L , Kanzler Kathryn E , McGeary Cindy A , Blankenship Abby E , Young-McCaughan Stacey , Peterson Alan L , Cobos Briana A , Dobmeyer Anne C , Hunter Christopher L , Blue Star John , Bhagwat Aditya , McGeary Donald D
Published: September 2020

Background

Manualized cognitive and behavioral therapies are increasingly used in primary care environments to improve nonpharmacological pain management. The Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (BCBT-CP) intervention, recently implemented by the Defense Health Agency for use across the military health system, is a modular, primary care–based treatment program delivered by behavioral health consultants integrated into primary care for patients experiencing chronic pain. Although early data suggest that this intervention improves functioning, it is unclear whether the benefits of BCBT-CP are sustained. The purpose of this paper is to describe the methods of a pragmatic clinical trial designed to test the effect of monthly telehealth booster contacts on treatment retention and long-term clinical outcomes for BCBT-CP treatment, as compared with BCBT-CP without a booster, in 716 Defense Health Agency beneficiaries with chronic pain.

Design

A randomized pragmatic clinical trial will be used to examine whether telehealth booster contacts improve outcomes associated with BCBT-CP treatments. Monthly booster contacts will reinforce BCBT-CP concepts and the home practice plan. Outcomes will be assessed 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after the first appointment for BCBT-CP. Focus groups will be conducted to assess the usability, perceived effectiveness, and helpfulness of the booster contacts.

Most individuals with chronic pain are managed in primary care, but few are offered biopsychosocial approaches to care. This pragmatic brief trial will test whether a pragmatic enhancement to routine clinical care, monthly booster contacts, results in sustained functional changes among patients with chronic pain receiving BCBT-CP in primary care.
Non-Bloch band theory and bulk–edge correspondence in non-Hermitian systems
Authors: Yokomizo Kazuki , Murakami Shuichi
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we review our non-Bloch band theory in 1D non-Hermitian tight-binding systems. In our theory, it is shown that in non-Hermitian systems, the Brillouin zone is determined so as to reproduce continuum energy bands in a large open chain. By using simple models, we explain the concept of the non-Bloch band theory and the method to calculate the Brillouin zone. In particular, for the non-Hermitian Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model, the bulk–edge correspondence can be established between the topological invariant defined from our theory and existence of the topological edge states.
The Association of Obesity With Quadriceps Activation During Sit-to-Stand
Authors: Bollinger Lance M , Ransom Amanda L
Published: September 2020

Objective

Obesity reduces voluntary recruitment of quadriceps during single-joint exercises, but the effects of obesity on quadriceps femoris muscle activation during dynamic daily living tasks, such as sit-to-stand (STS), are largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine how obesity affects quadriceps muscle recruitment during STS.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 10 women who were lean and 17 women who were obese completed STS from a chair with arms crossed over the chest. Three-dimensional motion analysis was used to define 3 distinct phases (I–III) of the STS cycle. The electromyographic (EMG) activity of the vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, and semitendinosus was measured.

Results

STS duration was greater (3.02 [SD = 0.75] seconds vs 1.67 [SD = 0.28] seconds) and peak trunk flexion angle was lower (28.9 degrees [SD = 10.4 degrees] vs 35.8 degrees [SD = 10.1 degrees]) in the women who were obese than in the women who were lean. The mean EMG activity of the knee extensors increased from phase I to phase II in both groups; however, the mean EMG activities of both the vastus medialis (32.1% [SD = 16.6%] vs 47.3% [SD = 19.6%] maximal voluntary isometric contraction) and the vastus lateralis (31.8% [SD = 19.4%] vs 47.5% [SD = 19.6%] maximal voluntary isometric contraction) were significantly lower during phase II in the women who were obese. The mean EMG activity of the semitendinosus increased throughout STS but was not significantly different between the 2 groups. Coactivation of the semitendinosus and knee extensors tended to be greater in the women who were obese but failed to reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Knee extensor EMG amplitude was reduced in women who were obese during STS, despite reduced trunk flexion.

Impact

Reduced knee extensor recruitment during STS in obesity may redistribute forces needed to complete this task to other joints. Functional movement training may help improve knee extensor recruitment during STS in people who are obese.

Lay Summary

People with obesity often have low quadriceps muscle strength and impaired mobility during daily activities. This study shows that women who are obese have lower voluntary recruitment of quadriceps when rising from a chair than women who are lean do, which could increase workload on hip or ankle muscles during this important daily task. Quadriceps strengthening exercises might improve the ability to rise from sitting to standing.
A processual approach to friction in quadruple helix collaborations
Authors: Popa Eugen Octav , Blok Vincent , Wesselink Renate
Published: September 2020

R&D collaborations between industry, government, civil society, and research (also known as ‘quadruple helix collaborations’ (QHCs)) have recently gained attention from R&D theorists and practitioners. In aiming to come to grips with their complexity, past models have generally taken a stakeholder-analytical approach based on stakeholder types. Yet stakeholder types are difficult to operationalise. We therefore argue that a processual model is more suited for studying the interaction in QHCs because it eschews matters of titles and identities. We develop such a model in which the QHC is represented as a process of generating four types of value: research value, market value, political value, and societal value. We then apply this processual model in analysing real-life cases of friction in QHCs. Friction is seen, not as an interpersonal clash, but as a discrepancy between two or more value-creation processes that compete for limited resources (some over-performing while others under-performing).
XIV Modern Literature
Authors: Ross Shawna , Bratton Francesca , Krzakowski Caroline , Corser Sophie , Keese Andrew , Phillips Joshua , West Mark , Cooper Samuel , D’Monte Rebecca , Martín Gustavo A Rodríguez , Saunders Graham , Masud Noreen , Creasy Matthew , Alonso Alex , O’Hanlon Karl
Published: September 2020

This chapter has eight sections 1. General. 2. Fiction Pre-1945; 3. Fiction Post-1945; 4. Drama Pre-1950; 5. Drama Post-1950; 6. British Poetry 1900–1950; 7 British Poetry Post-1950; 8. Modern Irish Poetry. Section 1 is by Shawna Ross; section 2(a) is by Francesca Bratton; section 2(b) is by Caroline Krzakowski; section 2(c) is by Sophie Corser; section 2(d) is by Andrew Keese; section 2(e) is by Joshua Phillips; section 3(a) is by Mark West; section 3(b) is by Samuel Cooper; section 4(a) is by Rebecca D’Monte; section 4(b) is by Gustavo A. Rodríguez Martín; section 5 is by Graham Saunders; section 6(a) is by Noreen Masud; section 6(b) is by Matthew Creasy; section 7 is by Alex Alonso; section 8 is by Karl O’Hanlon.
Dysphagia, Immobility, and Diet Acceptance: Main Factors Associated with Increased Risk of Pressure Injury in Patients Hospitalized after Stroke
Authors: Schott Mairin , Golin Anieli , de Jesus Sibila Reck , Alves Bruna Pessoa , Dachi Leonardo , Cassol Milena Cervo , Brondani Juliana Ebling , Marques Clandio Timm , Colpo Elisângela
Published: September 2020

OBJECTIVE

To determine the predisposing factors for PI in patients hospitalized after stroke.

METHODS

This 7-day longitudinal study followed up with patients hospitalized after stroke. Assessments included mobility, nutrition, and the presence of dysphagia and anemia. The nutrition evaluation was based on anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary determinants. Pressure injury (PI) risk was assessed via the Braden Scale. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied.

RESULTS

Patients who were bedridden showed a greater risk of PI development upon admission (P = .004) and 7 days later (P < .001) compared with patients who could ambulate. Patients who were not dysphagic presented a lower risk of PI development in relation to patients who were dysphagic on admission (P = .047) and 7 days later (P < .001). On admission, patients with good and average diet acceptance had a lower PI risk (P = .002; P = .034) compared with those with a low acceptance. Body mass index was lower in patients at a high risk of developing PI compared with those at moderate risk (P = .02). Hemoglobin and hematocrit were statistically lower among patients who were at high risk of PI compared with patients who were low risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Predisposing factors such as immobility, dysphagia, low diet acceptance, nutrition risk, and anemia are associated with a greater risk of PI development.
Sphingomonas corticis sp. nov., and Sphingobacterium corticibacterium sp. nov., from bark canker
Authors: Li Yong , Wang Shengkun , Chang Ju-pu , Bian Dan-ran , Guo Li-min , Yang Xu-qi
Published: September 2020

Two Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile bacterial strains, 36D10-4-7T and 30C10-4-7T, were isolated from bark canker tissue of Populus × euramericana, respectively. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain 36D10-4-7T shows 98.0 % sequence similarity to

Sphingomonas adhaesiva

DSM 7418T, and strain 30C10-4-7T shows highest sequence similarity to

Sphingobacterium arenae

H-12T (95.6 %). Average nucleotide identity analysis indicates that strain 36D10-4-7T is a novel member different from recognized species in the genus

Sphingomonas

. The main fatty acids and respiratory quinone detected in strain 36D10-4-7T are C18 : 1
 ω7c and/or C18 : 1
 ω6c and Q-10, respectively. The polar lipids are diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, aminolipid, phosphatidylethanolamine, sphingoglycolipid, two uncharacterized phospholipids and two uncharacterized lipids. For strain 30C10-4-7T, the major fatty acids and menaquinone are iso-C15 : 0, C16 : 1
 ω7c and/or C16 : 1
 ω6c and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH and MK-7, respectively. The polar lipid profile includes phosphatidylethanolamine, phospholipids, two aminophospholipids and six unidentified lipids. Based on phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, these two strains represent two novel species within the genera

Sphingomonas

and

Sphingobacterium

. The name Sphingomonas corticis sp. nov. (type strain 36D10-4-7T=CFCC 13112T=KCTC 52799T) and Sphingobacterium corticibacterium sp. nov. (type strain 30C10-4-7T=CFCC 13069T=KCTC 52797T) are proposed.
Poritiphilus flavus gen. nov., sp. nov., a member of the family Flavobacteriaceae isolated from coral Porites lutea
Authors: Wang Guanghua , Xu Shuailiang , Dang Ge , Liu Jianfeng , Su Hongfei , Chen Biao , Liao Zhiheng , Huang Wen , Liang Jiayuan , Wang Yinghui , Yu Kefu
Published: September 2020

A novel Gram-stain-negative, non-endospore-forming, non-motile, aerobic bacterium (strain R33T) was isolated from coral Porites lutea and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. The G+C content was 44.5 mol%. The only detected respiratory quinone was menaquinone 6 (MK-6). The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C15 : 1 ω6c. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and two unidentified lipids. Global alignment based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain R33T shares the highest sequence identity of 93.2 % with

Muriicola marianensis

A6B8T in the family

Flavobacteriaceae

. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain R33T forms a distinct branch in a stable clade comprising strain R33T and members of the genera

Muriicola

,

Robiginitalea

,

Eudoraea

and

Zeaxanthinibacter

. The phylogenomic analysis also supported this 16S rRNA gene-based phylogenetic result. Comparative genomic analysis indicated that strain R33T is rich in AraC-type DNA-binding domain-containing protein-coding genes, which means the regulation of carbon utilization is very complex. Low 16S rRNA gene identity, different polar lipids and/or cellular fatty acid profiles could readily distinguish strain R33T from any validly published type strains. Therefore, strain R33T is suggested to represent a new species in a new genus, for which the name Poritiphilus flavus gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is R33T (=MCCC 1K03853T=KCTC 72443T).
Routinely available antimicrobial susceptibility information can be used to increase the efficiency of screening for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Ong David S. Y. , Altorf-van der Kuil Wieke , Vlek Anne L. M. , Schouls Leo M. , Schoffelen Annelot F.
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Increased carbapenem resistance is often caused by carbapenemase production.

Aim. The objective of our study was to assess which antibiotic susceptibility patterns, as tested by automated systems, are highly associated with the absence of carbapenemase production in

Enterobacteriaceae

isolates, and could therefore be used as a screening tool.

Methodology. Routine antibiotic susceptibility testing data from 42 medical microbiology laboratories in the Netherlands in the period between January 2011 and June 2017 were obtained from the national antimicrobial resistance surveillance programme. Data on

Enterobacteriaceae

isolates that had an elevated minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for carbapenems (meropenem >0.25 mg l−1 or imipenem >1.0 mg l−1) were selected and subjected to phenotypic or genotypic carbapenemase production testing. Routinely available amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, piperacillin/tazobactam, cefuroxime and ceftriaxone/cefotaxime susceptibilities were studied in relation to carbapenemase production by calculating the negative predictive value.

Results. No evidence for carbapenemase-producing

Enterobacteriaceae

(CPE) was found in 767 of 1007 (76 %) isolates. The negative predictive value was highest for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (99.6 %) and piperacillin/tazobactam (98.8 %).

Conclusion.

Enterobacteriaceae

isolates with elevated carbapenem MICs that are susceptible to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid or piperacillin/tazobactam are unlikely to be carbapenemase producers. Preselection based on this susceptibility pattern may lead to increased laboratory efficiency and reduction of costs. Whether this is also true for countries with a different distribution of CPE species and types or a higher prevalence of CPE needs to be studied.
Topographic gradients define the projection patterns of the claustrum core and shell in mice
Authors: Marriott Brian A. , Do Alison D. , Zahacy Ryan , Jackson Jesse
Published: September 2020

The claustrum is densely connected to the cortex and participates in brain functions such as attention and sleep. Although some studies have reported the widely divergent organization of claustrum projections, others describe parallel claustrocortical connections to different cortical regions. Therefore, the details underlying how claustrum neurons broadcast information to cortical networks remain incompletely understood. Using multicolor retrograde tracing we determined the density, topography, and co-projection pattern of fourteen claustrocortical pathways, in mice. We spatially registered these pathways to a common coordinate space and found that the claustrocortical system is topographically organized as a series of overlapping spatial modules, continuously distributed across the dorsoventral claustrum axis. The claustrum core projects predominantly to frontal-midline cortical regions, whereas the dorsal and ventral shell project to the cortical motor system and temporal lobe, respectively. Anatomically connected cortical regions receive common input from a subset of claustrum neurons shared by neighboring modules, whereas spatially separated regions of cortex are innervated by different claustrum modules. Therefore, each output module exhibits a unique position within the claustrum and overlaps substantially with other modules projecting to functionally related cortical regions. Claustrum inhibitory cells containing parvalbumin, somatostatin, and neuropeptide Y also show unique topographical distributions, suggesting different output modules are controlled by distinct inhibitory circuit motifs. The topographic organization of excitatory and inhibitory cell types may enable parallel claustrum outputs to independently coordinate distinct cortical networks.
Behavioral Time Scale Plasticity of Place Fields: Mathematical Analysis
Authors: Shouval Harel Z. , Cone Ian
Published: September 2020

Traditional synaptic plasticity experiments and models depend on tight temporal correlations between pre- and postsynaptic activity. These tight temporal correlations, on the order of tens of milliseconds, are incompatible with significantly longer behavioral time scales, and as such might not be able to account for plasticity induced by behavior. Indeed, recent findings in hippocampus suggest that rapid, bidirectional synaptic plasticity which modifies place fields in CA1 operates at behavioral time scales. These experimental results suggest that presynaptic activity generates synaptic eligibility traces both for potentiation and depression, which last on the order of seconds. These traces can be converted to changes in synaptic efficacies by the activation of an instructive signal that depends on naturally occurring or experimentally induced plateau potentials. We have developed a simple mathematical model that is consistent with these observations. This model can be fully analyzed to find the fixed points of induced place fields, the convergence to these fixed points, and how these fixed points depend on system parameters such as the size and shape of presynaptic place fields, the animal’s velocity, and the parameters of the plasticity rule.
Selection of AVP-shortage patients as candidates for low-dose oral desmopressin administration
Authors: Takeuchi Takumi , Maki Kazuki , Okuno Yumiko , Hattori-Kato Mami , Mikami Koji
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is characterized by the excretion of large volumes of hypotonic urine and thirst due to an impaired ability to concentrate urine, leading to uncontrolled diuresis, which may cause life-threatening dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Central DI is caused by the deficient secretion of the posterior pituitary antidiuretic hormone arginine vasopressin (AVP). Desmopressin (Deamino-8-D-AVP, the synthetic analogue of AVP, Minirinmelt®) is generally used to treat central DI. Desmopressin orally disintegrating tablets are recently administered to male patients with nocturia. We herein attempted to select male patients with an elevated nocturnal urinary frequency possibly due to a shortage of AVP. These patients may be good candidates for low-dose oral desmopressin administration.

Patients and methods

Serum and spot urine osmolality, electrolytes, serum creatinine, casual blood glucose, plasma brain natriuretic polypeptide (BNP), and plasma AVP were measured at the same time in 97 elderly male patients with urinary symptoms under free water drinking. The International Prostate Symptom Score, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score, and frequency-volume charts at least twice were also evaluated.

Results

A binary plot of plasma AVP and serum osmolality indicated a region at which patients had relatively lower AVP considering higher serum osmolality. It was tentatively named the Desmopressin region. Twenty out of 97 (20.6 %) patients were in the Desmopressin region.

No significant differences were observed in the frequency of administered urinary drugs or existing co-morbidities between patients in the Desmopressin and non-Desmopressin regions. Daily urine output did not exceed 3 L in any patient. Plasma AVP was lower, while serum osmolality and serum sodium were higher in patients in the Desmopressin region than in those in non-Desmopressin region. Furthermore, urine osmolality was slightly lower in patients in the Desmopressin region. No significant differences were observed in urine volume, urinary frequency, or urination questionnaire scores between both groups.

Conclusion

AVP-shortage patients may be selected for treatment with oral desmopressin based on measurements of serum osmolality and plasma AVP. After the exclusion of patients with marked hyperglycemia, decreased cardiac, or renal function, low-dose oral desmopressin may be administered to patients with an increased urine output, nocturia, elevated plasma osmolality, and relatively low plasma AVP.
Tonsillectomy Outcomes for Coblation versus Bipolar Diathermy Techniques in Adult Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alsaif Abdulmalik , Alazemi Mohammad , Kahlar Narvair , Karam Mohammad , Abul Ahmad , AlNaseem Abdulrahman , Almuhanna Abdulredha , Aldrees Turki
Published: September 2020

Introduction

There is no consensus on the most superior tonsillectomy technique in adult patients. Recent trials involving coblation technique have shown promising results.

Aim

The study aims to compare the outcomes of coblation versus bipolar diathermy in adult patients undergoing tonsillectomy.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and a search of electronic information was conducted to identify all Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) as well as non-randomised studies comparing the outcomes of coblation versus bipolar diathermy in adult patients undergoing tonsillectomy. Reactionary haemorrhage, delayed haemorrhage and postoperative pain were primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included a return to theatre, administration of analgesia, intraoperative bleeding, diet, the effect on tonsils (degree of healing of tonsillar fossae) and operation time. Fixed effects modelling was used for the analysis.

Results

Four RCTs and two non-randomised studies were identified enrolling a total of 1824 patients. There were no significant differences between the coblation and bipolar groups in terms of reactionary haemorrhage (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.81, P = 0.51), delayed haemorrhage (OR = 0.72, P = 0.20) or postoperative pain by day 7 (standardised Mean Difference [MD] = -0.15, P = 0.45). For secondary outcomes, there were no differences noted in terms of intraoperative blood loss, diet and the number of cases returned to theatre. Administration of analgesia was reported to be either insignificant between the two groups or higher in the coblation group Also, the coblation group had longer operation time and greater healing effect on tonsillar tissue.

Conclusions

Coblation is neither a superior or inferior option when compared to bipolar diathermy used in the current clinical practice for adult patients undergoing tonsillectomy as both techniques have similar haemorrhage rates and post-operative pain whilst also lengthening the operative time in coblation.

Highlights

-

Coblation is neither inferior or superior compared to bipolar diathermy in adult tonsillectomy

-

Administration of analgesia either has insignificant difference or higher in the coblation group.

-

Coblation has a longer operative time than bipolar diathermy.
ATPase SRCAP is a new player in cell division, uncovering molecular aspects of Floating-Harbor syndrome
Authors: Messina Giovanni , Prozzillo Yuri , Delle Monache Francesca , Santopietro Maria Virginia , Atterrato Maria Teresa , Dimitri Patrizio
Published: September 2020

Floating-Harbor syndrome (FHS) is a rare genetic disease affecting human development caused by heterozygous truncating mutations in theSrcapgene, which encodes the ATPase SRCAP, the core catalytic subunit of the homonymous chromatin-remodeling complex. Using a combined approach, we studied the involvement of SRCAP protein in cell cycle progression in HeLa cells. In addition to the canonical localization in interphase nuclei, both SRCAP and itsDrosophilaorthologue DOMINO-A localized to the mitotic apparatus after nuclear envelope breakdown. Moreover, SRCAP and DOMINO-A depletion impaired mitosis and cytokinesis in human and Drosophila cells, respectively. Importantly, SRCAP interacted with several cytokinesis regulators at telophase, strongly supporting a direct role in cytokinesis, independent of its chromatin remodeling functions. Our results provide clues about previously undetected, evolutionarily conserved roles of SRCAP in ensuring proper mitosis and cytokinesis. We propose that perturbations in cell division contribute to the onset of developmental defects characteristic of FHS.

Significance statement

Srcapis the causative gene of the rare Floating Harbor syndrome (FHS). It encodes the ATPase SRCAP, the core catalytic subunit of the homonymous multiprotein chromatin-remodeling complex in humans, which promotes the exchange of canonical histone H2A with the H2A.Z variant. According to the current view on SRCAP protein functions, FHS is caused by chromatin remodeling defects. Our findings suggest that, in addition to the established function as epigenetic regulator, SRCAP plays previously undetected and evolutionarily conserved roles in cell division. Hence, we propose that perturbations in cell division produced by SRCAP mutations are important causative factors co-occurring at the onset of FHS.
GR chaperone cycle mechanism revealed by cryo-EM: reactivation of GR by the GR:Hsp90:p23 client-maturation complex
Authors: Noddings Chari M. , Wang Ray Yu-Ruei , Agard David A.
Published: September 2020

Hsp90 is a conserved and essential molecular chaperone responsible for the folding and activation of hundreds of ‘client’ proteins1,2. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a model client that constantly depends on Hsp90 for activity3. Previously, we revealed GR ligand binding is inhibited by Hsp70 and restored by Hsp90, aided by the cochaperone p234. However, a molecular understanding of the chaperone-induced transformations that occur between the inactive Hsp70:Hsp90 ‘client-loading complex’ and an activated Hsp90:p23 ‘client-maturation complex’ is lacking for GR, or for any client. Here, we present a 2.56Å cryo-EM structure of the GR-maturation complex (GR:Hsp90:p23), revealing that the GR ligand binding domain is, surprisingly, restored to a folded, ligand-bound conformation, while simultaneously threaded through the Hsp90 lumen. Also, unexpectedly, p23 directly stabilizes native GR using a previously uncharacterized C-terminal helix, resulting in enhanced ligand-binding. This is the highest resolution Hsp90 structure to date and the first atomic resolution structure of a client bound to Hsp90 in a native conformation, sharply contrasting with the unfolded kinase:Hsp90 structure5. Thus, aided by direct cochaperone:client interactions, Hsp90 dictates client-specific folding outcomes. Together with the GR-loading complex structure (Wang et al. 2020), we present the molecular mechanism of chaperone-mediated GR remodeling, establishing the first complete chaperone cycle for any client.
Self-collected Saline Gargle Samples as an Alternative to Healthcare Worker Collected Nasopharyngeal Swabs for COVID-19 Diagnosis in Outpatients
Authors: Goldfarb David M. , Tilley Peter , Al-Rawahi Ghada N. , Srigley Jocelyn A. , Ford Geoffrey , Pedersen Heather , Pabbi Abhilasha , Hannam-Clark Stephanie , Charles Marthe , Dittrick Michelle , Gadkar Vijay J. , Pernica Jeffrey M. , Hoang Linda M. N.
Published: September 2020

Background

We assessed the performance, stability, and user acceptability of swab-independent self-collected saliva and saline mouth rinse/gargle sample types for the molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in adults and school-aged children.

Methods

Outpatients who had recently been diagnosed with COVID-19 or were presenting with suspected COVID-19 were asked to have a nasopharyngeal swab collected and provide at least one self-collected sample type. A portion of participants were also asked about sample acceptability. Samples underwent molecular testing using multiple assays. Saline mouth rinse/gargle and saliva samples were tested daily at time zero, day one, and day 2 to assess nucleic acid stability at room temperature.

Results

50 participants (aged 4 to 71 years) were included; of these, 40 had at least one positive sample and were included in the primary sample yield analysis. Saline mouth rinse/gargle samples had a sensitivity of 98% (39/40) while saliva samples had a sensitivity of 79% (26/33). Both saline mouth rinse/gargle and saliva samples showed stable viral RNA detection after 2 days of room temperature storage. Mouth rinse/gargle samples had the highest (mean 4.9) and HCW-collected NP swabs had the lowest acceptability scores (mean 3.1).

Conclusion

Saline mouth rinse/gargle samples demonstrated the highest combined user acceptability ratings and analytical performance when compared with saliva and HCW collected NP swabs. This sample type is a promising swab-independent option, particularly for outpatient self-collection in adults and school aged children.
Coblation versus Bipolar Diathermy Hemostasis in Pediatric Tonsillectomy Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Karam Mohammad , Abul Ahmad , Althuwaini Abdulwahab , Alenezi Talal , Aljadi Ali , Almuhanna Abdulredha , AlNaseem Abdulrahman , Alsaif Abdulmalik , Alwael Athari
Published: September 2020

Objective

To compare the outcomes of coblation versus bipolar in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) Guidelines and an electronic search of information was conducted to identify all Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) comparing the outcomes of coblation versus bipolar in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy. Intraoperative bleeding, reactionary hemorrhage, delayed hemorrhage and post-operative pain were primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included return to normal diet, effects on tonsillar bed, operation time and administration of analgesia. Fixed and random effects models were used for the analysis.

Results

Seven studies enrolling 1328 patients were identified. There was a significant difference between coblation and bipolar groups in terms of delayed hemorrhage (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.25, P = 0.0007) and post-operative pain (standardized mean difference [MD] = -2.13, P = 0.0007). Intraoperative bleeding (MD = -43.26, P = 0.11) and reactionary hemorrhage did not show any significant difference. For secondary outcomes, coblation group had improved outcomes in terms of administration of analgesia, diet and tonsillar tissue recovery and thermal damage. No significant difference was reported in terms of operation time.

Conclusions

Coblation is a superior option when compared to bipolar technique for pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy as it improves post-operative pain and delayed hemorrhage and does not worsen intraoperative bleeding and reactionary hemorrhage.

Highlights

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Coblation tonsillectomy was less painful than bipolar diathermy.

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Coblation tonsillectomy was associated with less delayed hemorrhage than bipolar diathermy.

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Tonsillar tissue recovery, thermal damage and return to normal diet were better in the coblation group.
Association of thyroid autoimmunity and the response to recombinant human growth hormone in Turner syndrome
Authors: Song Yuyao , Yang Hongbo , Wang Linjie , Gong Fengying , Pan Hui , Zhu Huijuan
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Short stature and thyroid autoimmunity are among the most common traits in Turner syndrome (TS). Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) treatment benefits height growth in Turner syndrome individuals when applicable. This study aims to investigate the association of thyroid autoimmunity and the response to rhGH treatment in Turner Syndrome patients.

Methods

Medical records of 494 patients with TS were reviewed. Among 126 patients who regularly tested for thyroid autoantibodies, 108 patients had received rhGH treatment. Clinical characteristics, including karyotype and the presence of autoimmune thyroid diseases, as well as rhGH treatment records were analyzed. Height velocity (HV) of patients with or without thyroid autoimmunity was compared to assess the response to rhGH treatment. For patients who received rhGH treatment and positive for thyroid autoantibodies, height velocity before and after antibody presence was compared.

Results

45XO monosomy presented in 36% (176/496) of patients. 42.1% of patients (53/126) had elevated circulating anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and anti-thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb). In 108 patients who received rhGH treatment, a negative correlation was found between circulating TPOAb concentration and HV (n=53, r = -0.276, P<0.05). For patients who developed thyroid autoantibodies during rhGH treatment, HVs after thyroid autoantibody presence significantly decreased compared with HVs before thyroid autoantibody detection (n=44, p=0.0017).

Conclusions

Our data suggested that in preadult TS patients who developed thyroid autoantibodies during rhGH treatment, the response to rhGH is negatively associated with the development of thyroid autoimmunity.
A Full-Scale Agent-Based Model of Lombardy COVID-19 Dynamics to Explore Social Networks Connectivity and Vaccine Impact on Epidemic
Authors: Giacopelli Giuseppe
Published: September 2020

September 13, 2020

COVID-19 outbreak is an awful event. However it gives to the scientists the possibility to test theories about epidemic. The aim of this contribution is to propose a individual-based model of Lombardy COVID-19 outbreak at full-scale, where full-scale means that will be simulated all the 10 millions inhabitant population of Lombardy person by person, in a commercial computer. All this to test the impact of our daily actions in epidemic, investigate social networks connectivity and in the end have an insight on the impact of an hypothetical vaccine.
Screening electrocardiogram in young athletes and military members: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lear Aaron , Patel Niraj , Mullen Chanda , Simonson Marian , Leone Vince , Koshiaris Constantinos , Nunan David
Published: September 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of electrocardiogram (ECG) screening on prevention of sudden cardiac arrest and death (SCA/D) in young athletes and military members.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Data Sources

MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, BIOSIS, Scopus, SPORT discus, PEDro, were searched from inception to date searched between 2/21/19 and 3/1/19, and Clinicaltrials.gov on 7/29/19. All databases were searched without limits on language.

Eligibility criteria for selected studies

Randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, where pre-participation examination including ECG was the primary intervention used to screen athletes or military 40 years of age or younger. Accepted controls were no screening, usual care, or pre-participation examination without ECG

Results

4 studies (11,689,172 participants) were included, all at high risk of bias. Pooled data from two studies (n= 3,869,274; very low quality) showed a 42% relative decrease in sudden cardiac death, equating to an absolute risk reduction of.0016%. Uncertainty was high, with a potential 67% relative decrease to a 45% relative increase in those screened with ECG based on 95% confidence intervals (RR 0.58; 95%CI 0.23, 1.45). Heterogeneity was found to be high as measured with I2statistic (71%).

Conclusion

There is very low quality evidence ECG screening decreases risk of sudden cardiac death in young athletes and military members. Decisions need to consider evidence that ECG screening could also increase risk of sudden cardiac death based on the findings of meta-analysis.

PROSPERO Registration:CRD42019125560
Q-STARZ: Quantitative Spatial and Temporal Assessment of Regulatory element activity in Zebrafish
Authors: Bhatia Shipra , Kleinjan Dirk Jan , Uttley Kirsty , Mann Anita , Dellepiane Nefeli , Bickmore Wendy A.
Published: September 2020

Noncoding regions of the genome harbouring cis-regulatory elements (CREs) or enhancers drive spatial and temporal gene expression. Mutations or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in enhancers have been widely implicated in human diseases and disease-predispositions. However, our ability to assay the regulatory potential of genetic variants in enhancers is currently very limited, in part because of the need to assay these elements in an appropriate biological context. Here, we describe a method for simultaneous quantitative assessment of the spatial and temporal activity of wild-type (Wt) and disease-associated, mutant (Mut) human CRE alleles using live imaging in zebrafish embryonic development. We generated transgenic lines harbouring a dual-CRE dual-reporter cassette in a pre-defined neutral docking site in the zebrafish genome. Using this single transgenic cassette, the functional activity of each CRE allele is reported via expression of a specific fluorescent reporter, allowing the simultaneous visualisation of the activity of both alleles. This can reveal where and when in embryonic development the wild-type allele is active and how this activity is altered by the disease-associated mutation.
A spatial model of the plant circadian clock reveals design principles for coordinated timing under noisy environments
Authors: Greenwood Mark , Tokuda Isao T. , Locke James C.W.
Published: September 2020

Individual plant cells possess a genetic network, the circadian clock, that times internal processes to the day-night cycle. Mathematical models of the clock network have driven a mechanistic understanding of the clock in plants. However, these models are typically either ‘whole plant’ models that ignore tissue or cell type specific clock behavior, or ‘phase only’ models that do not include clock network components explicitly. It is increasingly clear that in order to reveal the design principles of the plant circadian clock, clock network models must address spatial differences. This is because complex spatial behaviours have been observed in tissues and cells in plants, including period and phase differences between cells and spatial waves of gene expression between organs. Here, we implement an up to date clock network model on a spatial template of the plant. In our model, the sensitivity to light inputs varies across the plant, and cells communicate their clock timing locally via the levels of core clock mRNA levels by cell-to-cell coupling. We found that differences in sensitivities to environmental input in the model can explain the experimentally observed differences in clock periods in different organs, and we show using the model that a plausible coupling mechanism can generate the experimentally observed waves in clock gene expression across the plant. We then examined what features of the plant circadian system allow it to keep time under noisy light-dark (LD) cycles. We found that differences in sensitivity to light can allow regional flexibility in phase even under LD cycles, whilst local cell-to-cell coupling minimized variability in clock rhythms in neighboring cells. Thus, local sensitivity to environmental inputs combined with cell-to-cell coupling allows for flexible yet robust circadian timing under noisy environments.