bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absence of Naturally Acquired Tetanus Antitoxin in the Free‐Ranging Cayo Santiago Rhesus Monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Kessler Matt J. , Rawlins Richard G.
Published: July 2020

Tetanus is enzootic in the free‐ranging rhesus monkey colony on Cayo Santiago. The disease accounts for 25% of all mortalities in the population. The high prevalence of tetanus provided a unique opportunity to study the potential roles of geophagia, wounding, and clinical tetanus infections on the development of naturally acquired tetanus antitoxin in rhesus macaques. Eighty‐six unvaccinated monkeys, including six that recovered from tetanus, were serosurveyed using a mouse toxin neutralization test. None of the animals had detectable antitoxin titers (<0.001 AU/ml), suggesting that natural immunity to tetanus is either rare or nonexistent in the Cayo Santiago colony.
The Effects of Ketamine Anesthesia on Glucose Clearance in African Green Monkeys
Authors: Brady Alan G. , Koritnik Donald R.
Published: July 2020

Ketamine hydrochloride's effect on glucose clearance‐insulin secretion during intravenous glucose tolerance testing was studied in five African green monkeys. Animals were tested with ketamine anesthesia and then had indwelling cannulas implanted and were retested both in the presence and absence of ketamine anesthesia. Serum glucose and insulin concentrations were determined. There were no significant differences in the glucose clearance rate (K value), basal glucose and insulin concentrations, maximum insulin concentration, and area under the insulin response curve, among the three different conditions.
Evaluation of the Subhuman Primate Pregnancy Test Kit for the Detection of Early Pregnancy in the Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Naqvi Rehan H. , Lindberg Marjorie C.
Published: July 2020

The performance of The Subhuman Primate Pregnancy Test Kit was evaluated for routine detection of early (days 19–21) pregnancy in the rhesus monkey. Out of 123 confirmed matings, 19 resulted in pregnancy. In the pregnant animals the kit had an accuracy of 73.7%. In the nonpregnant females the accuracy was higher, 88.5%. False positives were encountered in ovariectomized females as well as adult intact males.
Sperm Parameters and Testicular Volumes in Saguinus mystax
Authors: Harrison Richard M. , Wolf Robert H.
Published: July 2020

Adult male Saguinus mystax tamarins were evaluated for sperm parameters and testicular volumes. Sperm concentrations average 195.5 × 106/cc with 41.7% motile sperm. Semen specimens were classified as normal, relative to sperm morphology, when 95% or more of the sperm in the specimen had normal morphology; 76% of the animals evaluated had normal semen specimens using this criterion. Testicular volumes averaged 726.9 mm3. A total of 50 infants were sired by 16 of these males during the period covered by this report.
Hormonal Responses to Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone During Testicular Development in Male African Green Monkeys
Authors: Brady Alan G. , Koritnik Donald R. , Stevens Susan W.
Published: July 2020

Reproductive development in male African green monkeys was characterized by evaluating both luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) before and after gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation in relation to the physical maturation of the testis. There were LH responses to GnRH at all ages studied, but the failure of some animals to respond at earlier ages suggested developmental changes in the responsiveness of the pituitary. The T secretion developed progressively but did not reach adultlike characteristics until approximately 44 months of age, at which time sperm could be demonstrated in ejaculated semen.
Epitope Expression on Primate Lymphocyte Surface Antigens
Authors: Murayama Yuichi , Fukao Katashi , Noguchi Atsuo , Takenaka Osamu
Published: July 2020

The cross‐reactivity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 28 nonhuman primates was investigated with ten kinds of Leu series of monoclonal antibodies specific to human T‐, natural killer/killer‐, and B‐cells. The chimpanzees possessed all ten epitopes examined but the orangutan lacked Leu4 and Leu7 epitopes and the gibbons lacked Leu4, Leu7, and Leu 12 epitopes. In addition to the above epitopes, the Old World monkeys lacked Leul and LeulO epitopes. The Leu3a/Leu2a cell ratios varied from 0 to 1.56 among the 12 macaque species and this enabled classification of these species into three groups. In the New World monkeys, Leu2a epitope was absent, whereas Leul la epitope was detected in several species and Leu3a epitope was found only in the owl monkeys. The prosimians expressed only HLA‐DR epitope.
Body Measurements, Hematology, and Serum Chemistry Values of the Adult Cebus apella Monkey
Authors: Rosner Jorge M. , Schinini Alicia , Rovira Teresa , Merlo Rosa , Bestard Renate , Maldonado Marisel
Published: July 2020

Body measurements, hematology, and serum chemistry values were studied in 40 captured male and female Cebus apella monkeys. Some significant dimorphism with male predominance was found. Significant differences were also found for hemoglobin and red cell volume between males and females. Differential white blood cell counts indicated a marked predominance of lymphocytes and high values of gamma globulin in both sexes.
Morphometric Studies of the Heart in Normal Rhesus Monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Swindle M.M. , Blum J.R. , Weiss J.L.
Published: July 2020

The hearts of 47 rhesus monkeys were examined at necropsy. Normal morphometric parameters of the heart were established. Included in the values are measurements of weight of the heart as a percentage of body weight, overall dimensions of the heart, and measurements of ventricular morphology.
Bovine Tuberculosis in a Wild Baboon Population: Epidemiological Aspects
Authors: Sapolsky Robert M. , Else James G.
Published: July 2020

A follow‐up of an outbreak of Mycobacterium bovis in a population of feral baboons in Kenya was undertaken after one year by necropsy of euthanized, clinically ill animals, and tuberculin testing of others. It was concluded that the source of the infection was animals feeding on village slaughterhouse offal of M. bovis infected cows. Secondary (direct) baboon‐baboon transfer of the disease appeared to be minimal or nonexistent.
Reference Values for Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes From Aotus lemurinus ssp. griseimembra (Owl Monkey)
Authors: Caldwell Charles W. , Mrema J.E.K. , Taylor H.M. , Green T.J.
Published: July 2020

The reactivities of several monoclonal antibodies that define human lymphocyte cell‐surface antigens have been tested with peripheral blood lymphocytes of Aotus lemurinus ssp. griseimembra. Based on reactivity patterns in humans, reactive MoAb were identified that mark pan‐T, helper/inducer, suppressor/cytotoxic, pan‐B, and natural killer cells. Reference values of these subsets in Aotus are presented. These MoAb should provide a useful tool for further phenotypic and functional dissection of the immune system in this simian model of human disease.
Identification of the Main Gestagen Metabolite in Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) Urine by NMR and MS Spectroscopy
Authors: Heger W. , Hoyer G.‐A. , Neubert D.
Published: July 2020

Hydroxypregnanolone is the most abundant progesterone metabolite in the urine of marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus). The substance is excreted as conjugate. The concentration of this steroid may be monitored by high performance, thin layer chromatography and postchromatographic derivatization. Hydroxypregnanolone was purified and subsequently identified by NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy. The exact chemical structure is 5α‐pregnane‐3α,7α‐diol‐20‐one.
Age‐Related Changes of Immunoglobulin Levels in African Green Monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops)
Authors: Fujimoto Koji , Hiyaoka Akio , Cho Fumiaki , Honjo Shigeo
Published: July 2020

Serum IgG, IgA, and IgM levels were measured in domestically bred African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) ranging in age from 0 day to 49 months as well as in adult (5 years or older) animals of wild origin. Transplacental transfer of IgG was observed. IgG, IgA, and IgM levels increased with increasing age except for a temporal decrease of IgG level in the first month of life.
High‐pressure sintering of ultrafine‐grained high‐entropy diboride ceramics
Authors: Ma Mengdong , Ye Beilin , Han Yangjie , Sun Lei , He Julong , Chu Yanhui
Published: July 2020

Herein the ultrafine‐grained (Hf0.2Zr0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Ti0.2)B2 high‐entropy diboride ceramics were successfully fabricated by high‐pressure sintering technology for the first time. The results showed that the grain size, relative density, and Vickers hardness of the as‐fabricated samples all increased gradually with increasing sintering temperatures from 1373 K to 1973 K. The relative density and mean grain size of the as‐sintered samples at 1973 K were 97.2% and 684 nm, respectively, and simultaneously they exhibited excellent comprehensive mechanical properties, combining a Vickers hardness of 26.2 GPa and a fracture toughness of 5.3 MPa·m1/2, which were primary attributed to the fine grain strengthening mechanism and microcrack deflection toughening mechanism.
The devil is in the detail? Investors’ mispricing of proxy voting outcomes on M&A deals
Authors: Li Lingwei , Zhang Huai
Published: July 2020

Shareholders’ approval rates on M&A deals are informative because they are predictive of the acquirer's post‐merger operating performance. Since the passing of the deal is salient information while the specific approval rate is not, investors may misprice the detailed voting outcome due to their limited attention. We find that post‐merger abnormal stock returns are significantly higher for acquirers receiving higher approval rates: a one percentage point increase in the approval rate is associated with a 48 basis point increase in the market‐adjusted stock return in the year after the merger is completed. Consistent with mispricing, the voting outcome reliably predicts post‐merger earnings announcement returns and analyst forecast errors. What's more, the association between the voting outcome and post‐merger stock returns is stronger when investors’ attention to the voting outcome is distracted by same‐day earnings announcements, when the marginal investor is less likely to be sophisticated, and when investors have greater pre‐merger disagreement. Short sale constraints do not seem to explain our findings. Overall, our results suggest that detailed proxy voting outcomes are neglected by investors.
Sepiapterin reductase: Characteristics and role in diseases
Authors: Wu Yao , Chen Peng , Sun Li , Yuan Shengtao , Cheng Zujue , Lu Ligong , Du Hongzhi , Zhan Meixiao
Published: July 2020

Sepiapterin reductase, a homodimer composed of two subunits, plays an important role in the biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin. Furthermore, sepiapterin reductase exhibits a wide distribution in different tissues and is associated with many diseases, including brain dysfunction, chronic pain, cardiovascular disease and cancer. With regard to drugs targeting sepiapterin reductase, many compounds have been identified and provide potential methods to treat various diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of sepiapterin reductase in many biological processes is unclear. Therefore, this article summarized the structure, distribution and function of sepiapterin reductase, as well as the relationship between sepiapterin reductase and different diseases, with the aim of finding evidence to guide further studies on the molecular mechanisms and the potential clinical value of sepiapterin reductase. In particular, the different effects induced by the depletion of sepiapterin reductase or the inhibition of the enzyme suggest that the non‐enzymatic activity of sepiapterin reductase could function in certain biological processes, which also provides a possible direction for sepiapterin reductase research.
PDX regulates inflammatory cell infiltration via resident macrophage in LPS‐induced lung injury
Authors: Ye Yang , Zhang Hua‐Wei , Mei Hong‐Xia , Xu Hao‐Ran , Xiang Shu‐Yang , Yang Qian , Zheng Sheng‐Xing , Gao Smith Fang , Jin Sheng‐Wei , Wang Qian
Published: July 2020

Inflammatory cell infiltration contributes to the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Protectin DX (PDX), an endogenous lipid mediator, shows anti‐inflammatory and proresolution bioactions. In vivo, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with PDX (0.1 µg/mouse) after intratracheal (1 mg/kg) or intraperitoneal (10 mg/kg) LPS administration. Flow cytometry was used to measure inflammatory cell numbers. Clodronate liposomes were used to deplete resident macrophages. RT‐PCR, and ELISA was used to measure MIP‐2, MCP‐1, TNF‐α and MMP9 levels. In vitro, sorted neutrophils, resident and recruited macrophages (1 × 106) were cultured with 1 μg/mL LPS and/or 100 nmol/L PDX to assess the chemokine receptor expression. PDX attenuated LPS‐induced lung injury via inhibiting recruited macrophage and neutrophil recruitment through repressing resident macrophage MCP‐1, MIP‐2 expression and release, respectively. Finally, PDX inhibition of neutrophil infiltration and transmembrane was associated with TNF‐α/MIP‐2/MMP9 signalling pathway. These data suggest that PDX attenuates LPS‐stimulated lung injury via reduction of the inflammatory cell recruitment mediated via resident macrophages.
2019 IUSTI‐Europe guideline for the management of anogenital warts
Authors: Gilson R. , Nugent D. , Werner R.N. , Ballesteros J. , Ross J.
Published: July 2020

This guideline is an update of the 2011 European Guideline for the Management of Anogenital Warts. It is intended to support best practice in the care of patients with anogenital warts by including evidence‐based recommendations on diagnosis, treatment, follow‐up and advice to patients. It is intended for use by healthcare professionals in sexual healthcare or dermato‐venereology clinics in Europe but may be adapted for use in other settings where the management of anogenital warts is undertaken. As a European guideline, recommendations should be adapted according to national circumstances and healthcare systems. Despite the availability of vaccine to prevent HPV types 6 and 11, the cause of >95% anogenital warts, they remain an important and frequent health problem. The previous systematic review of randomized controlled trials for anogenital warts was updated. The changes in the present guideline include the following: Updated background information on the prevalence, natural history and transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and anogenital warts. Key recommendations for diagnosis and treatment have been graded according to the strength of the recommendation and the quality of supporting evidence. 5‐fluorouracil, local interferon and photodynamic therapy have been evaluated and included as potential second‐line treatment options. Evidence of the impact of HPV vaccination on the incidence of anogenital warts has been updated.
The nodulation and nyctinastic leaf movement is orchestrated by clock gene LHY in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Kong Yiming , Han Lu , Liu Xiu , Wang Hongfeng , Wen Lizhu , Yu Xiaolin , Xu Xiaodong , Kong Fanjiang , Fu Chunxiang , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Wen Jiangqi , Zhou Chuanen
Published: July 2020

As sessile organisms, plants perceive, respond, and adapt to the environmental changes for optimal growth and survival. The plant growth and fitness are enhanced by circadian clocks through coordination of numerous biological events. In legume species, nitrogen‐fixing root nodules were developed as the plant organs specialized for symbiotic transfer of nitrogen between microsymbiont and host. Here, we report that the endogenous circadian rhythm in nodules is regulated by MtLHY in legume species Medicago truncatula. Loss of function of MtLHY leads to a reduction in the number of nodules formed, resulting in a diminished ability to assimilate nitrogen. The operation of the 24‐h rhythm in shoot is further influenced by the availability of nitrogen produced by the nodules, leading to the irregulated nyctinastic leaf movement and reduced biomass in mtlhy mutants. These data shed new light on the roles of MtLHY in the orchestration of circadian oscillator in nodules and shoots, which provides a mechanistic link between nodulation, nitrogen assimilation, and clock function.
Hypoglossal Nerve Lesions: The Role of a 3D IR‐Prepped Fast SPGR High‐Resolution 3T MRI Sequence
Authors: Geng Chengjun , Lu Zehua , Xuan Lulu , Yin Huikang , Yang Xiaoliang , Yang Liyue , Xia Xiaoliang , Chu Wei
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To assess a 3D high‐resolution IR‐prepped fast SPGR high‐resolution MRI sequence for evaluating hypoglossal nerve lesions.

METHODS

The clinical data of 8 patients with hypoglossal nerve lesions admitted from December 2011 to February 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. MRI included contrast‐enhanced conventional sequences and a 3D IR‐prepped fast SPGR high‐resolution T1‐weighted (BRAVO) MRI sequence at 3T.

RESULTS

Eight patients had hypoglossal lesions detected by MRI. Conventional enhanced scanning could not clearly display the hypoglossal nerve and canal, while the enhanced 3D high‐resolution sequence could. In addition, multiple planar reconstruction clearly displayed the hypoglossal nerve, hypoglossal canal, and lesions in multiple planes.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with conventional MRI, we show superior results from an advanced sequence to improve image quality in characterizing hypoglossal nerve lesions.
HWL-088, a new and highly effective FFA1/PPARδ dual agonist, attenuates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by regulating lipid metabolism, inflammation and fibrosis
Authors: Hu Lijun , Zhou Zongtao , Deng Liming , Ren Qiang , Cai Zongyu , Wang Bin , Li Zheng , Wang Guangji
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD), a chronic progressive liver disease, is highly correlated with pathoglycemia, dyslipidemia and oxidative stress. The free fatty acid receptor 1 (FFA1) agonists have been reported to improve liver steatosis and fibrosis, and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor δ (PPARδ) plays a synergistic role with FFA1 in energy metabolism and fibrosis. HWL-088, a PPARδ/FFA1 dual agonist, exerts better glucose-lowering effects than the representative FFA1 agonist TAK-875. However, the ability of HWL-088 to protect NAFLD was unknown. This study aimed to discover a new strategy for the treatment of NAFLD.

Methods

The methionine- and choline-deficient diet (MCD)-induced Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) model was constructed to evaluate the effects of HWL-088.

Key findings

Administration of HWL-088 exerted multiple benefits on glucose control, lipid metabolism and fatty liver. Further mechanism research indicated that HWL-088 promotes lipid metabolism by decreasing lipogenesis and increasing lipolysis. Moreover, HWL-088 attenuates NASH by regulating the expression levels of genes related to inflammation, fibrosis and oxidative stress.

Conclusions

These positive results indicated that PPARδ/FFA1 dual agonist HWL-088 might be a potential candidate to improve multiple pathogenesis of NASH.
Fiscal Rules Cause Lower Debt: Evidence from Switzerland’s Federal Debt Containment Rule
Authors: Salvi Michele , Schaltegger Christoph A. , Schmid Lukas
Published: July 2020

This paper studies the effect of the Swiss federal debt containment rule on public debt. Using the synthetic control method, we provide evidence that the introduction of the federal rule in 2003 has reduced public debt ratio in Switzerland by 2.5 percentage points on average until 2010. By exploiting possible mechanisms, we find no evidence that the reduction in debt ratio was driven by a debt relocation to sub‐government levels or cutbacks in investment expenditure. On one hand, we argue that the positive impact of the fiscal rule is based on its design features, namely its precise but cyclically adjusted target, the comprehensive scope to prevent budget loopholes, and the strict sanction mechanism. On the other hand, we also discuss the generalizability of our findings to other countries and contend that its direct democratic authorization has contributed to its political enforcement and viability.
Prognostic value of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging, transient elastography and blood‐based fibrosis markers in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Jayaswal Arjun N. A. , Levick Christina , Selvaraj Emmanuel A. , Dennis Andrea , Booth Jonathan C. , Collier Jane , Cobbold Jeremy , Tunnicliffe Elizabeth M. , Kelly Matthew , Barnes Eleanor , Neubauer Stefan , Banerjee Rajarshi , Pavlides Michael
Published: July 2020

Background & Aims

Liver cT1, liver T1, transient elastography (TE) and blood‐based biomarkers have independently been shown to predict clinical outcomes but have not been directly compared in a single cohort of patients. Our aim was to compare these tests’ prognostic value in a cohort of patients with compensated chronic liver disease.

Methods

Patients with unselected compensated liver disease aetiologies had baseline assessments and were followed up for development of clinical outcomes, blinded to the imaging results. The prognostic value of non‐invasive liver tests at prespecified thresholds was assessed for a combined clinical endpoint comprising ascites, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver transplantation and mortality.

Results

One hundred and ninety‐seven patients (61% male) with median age of 54 years were followed up for 693 patient‐years (median (IQR) 43 (26‐58) months). The main diagnoses were NAFLD (41%), viral hepatitis (VH, 25%) and alcohol‐related liver disease (ArLD; 14%). During follow‐up 14 new clinical events, and 11 deaths occurred. Clinical outcomes were predicted by liver cT1 > 825ms with HR 9.9 (95% CI: 1.29‐76.4, P = .007), TE > 8kPa with HR 7.8 (95% CI: 0.97‐62.3, P = .02) and FIB‐4 > 1.45 with HR 4.09 (95% CI: 0.90‐18.4, P = .05). In analysis taking into account technical failure and unreliability, liver cT1 > 825 ms could predict clinical outcomes (P = .03), but TE > 8kPa could not (P = .4).

Conclusions

We provide further evidence that liver cT1, TE and serum‐based biomarkers can predict clinical outcomes, but when taking into account technical failure/unreliability, TE cut‐offs perform worse than those of cT1 and blood biomarkers.
Adaptive and maladaptive genetic diversity in small populations: Insights from the Brook Charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) case study
Authors: Ferchaud Anne‐Laure , Leitwein Maeva , Laporte Martin , Boivin‐Delisle Damien , Bougas Bérénice , Hernandez Cécilia , Normandeau Éric , Thibault Isabel , Bernatchez Louis
Published: July 2020

Investigating the relative importance of neutral versus selective processes governing the accumulation of genetic variants is a key goal in both evolutionary and conservation biology. This is particularly true in the context of small populations, where genetic drift can counteract the effect of selection. Using Brook Charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) from Québec, Canada, as a case study, we investigated the importance of demographic versus selective processes governing the accumulation of both adaptive and maladaptive mutations in closed versus open and connected populations to assess gene flow effect. This was achieved by using 14,779 high‐quality filtered SNPs genotyped among 1,416 fish representing 50 populations from three life history types: lacustrine (closed populations), riverine and anadromous (connected populations). Using the PROVEAN algorithm, we observed a considerable accumulation of putative deleterious mutations across populations. The absence of correlation between the occurrence of putatively beneficial or deleterious mutations and local recombination rate supports the hypothesis that genetic drift might be the main driver of the accumulation of such variants. However, despite a lower genetic diversity observed in lacustrine than in riverine or anadromous populations, lacustrine populations do not exhibit more deleterious mutations than the two other history types, suggesting that the negative effect of genetic drift in lacustrine populations may be mitigated by that of relaxed purifying selection. Moreover, we also identified genomic regions associated with anadromy, as well as an overrepresentation of transposable elements associated with variation in environmental variables, thus supporting the importance of transposable elements in adaptation.
Regulatory network of fruit ripening: current understanding and future challenges
Authors: Chen Tong , Qin Guozheng , Tian Shiping
Published: July 2020

Fruit ripening is a developmental process that is spatio‐temporally tuned at multiple levels. Molecular dissections of the mechanisms underlying the ripening process have revealed a network encompassed by hormones, transcriptional regulators, epigenomic modifications and other regulatory elements that directly determine fruit quality and the postharvest commodity of fresh produce. Many studies have addressed the important roles of ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA) and other hormones in regulating fruit ripening. Recent studies have shown that some spontaneous mutants for tomato transcription factors (TFs) have resulted from loss‐of‐function or dominant‐negative mutations. Unlike in DNA methylation variation, the histone mark H3K27me3 may be conserved and prevents the transcriptional feedback circuit from generating autocatalytic ethylene. These observations of a network of partially redundant component indicate the need to improve our current understanding. Here, we focussed on the recent advances and future challenges in investigations of the molecular mechanisms of fruit ripening. We also identified several issues that still need to be addressed in future studies.
Gains from resistance: rejection of a new digital technology in a healthcare sector workplace
Authors: Shulzhenko Elena , Holmgren Jens
Published: July 2020

The issue of spaces for non‐organised employee resistance has attracted renewed attention due to the diffusion of new digital technologies in the workplace. The ability of new technologies to measure and restrict employee behaviour in new ways requires explanations of resistance that account for both technology’s material characteristics and employee agency, without descending into technological determinism. This article is based on a case of effective resistance to a new data reporting technology introduced in home nursing in Denmark and explores the causes, forms and outcomes of the resistance. In this study, labour process theory is complemented with Edwards and Ramirez’s classification of dimensions of technological change. The study argues that two dimensions are important for effective employee resistance to technology: contestation of the unintended rather than the intended effects of the technology and the non‐immanence of the effects in the technology, which allows the employees to reconstitute it in use.
Rapid‐rate nonsustained ventricular tachycardias in high‐risk dilated cardiomyopathy patients
Authors: Lee Wei‐Chieh , Watanabe Masaya , Yokoshiki Hisashi , Temma Taro , Kamada Rui , Takahashi Masayuki , Hagiwara Hikaru , Takahashi Yumi , Anzai Toshihisa
Published: July 2020

Aims

Nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) occurs frequently in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), especially in high‐risk patients. The role of rapid‐rate NSVT (RR‐NSVT) documented by an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) in DCM patients has not been fully explored. This study aimed to determine the relationship between RR‐NSVT and the occurrence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTAs) in DCM patients with ICD.

Methods

From December 2000 to December 2017, 136 DCM patients received ICD or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT‐D) implantation for primary or secondary prevention of VTAs. Based on the occurrence of documented RR‐NSVT, patients were classified into RR‐NSVT (−) or RR‐NSVT (+) groups.

Result

During the median follow‐up of 4.5 years, 50.0% (68/136) patients experienced ≥1 episode, and 25.0% (34/136) patients experienced ≥3 episodes of RR‐NSVT. Event‐free survival for VTAs was significantly higher in the RR‐NSVT (−) group, whereas those for heart failure admission and cardiovascular mortality were comparable between groups. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, any RR‐NSVT showed a positive association with the occurrence of VTAs (hazard ratio: 5.087; 95% confidence interval: 2.374‐10.900; P < .001). In RR‐NSVT (+) patients, a cluster (≥3 times/6 months) and frequent pattern (≥3 runs/day) of RR‐NSVT were observed in 42.6% (29/68) and 30.9% (21/68) patients, respectively, who showed further increased incidence of VTAs.

Conclusion

In DCM patients with ICD/CRT‐D, 50.0% patients experienced at least one episode of RR‐NSVT. RR‐NSVT documentation showed a positive association with subsequent occurrence of VTAs, suggesting the importance of constructive arrhythmia management for patients with RR‐NSVT.
Multibody dynamics analysis (MDA) as a numerical modelling tool to reconstruct the function and palaeobiology of extinct organisms
Authors: Lautenschlager Stephan
Published: July 2020

Recent advances in computer technology have substantially changed the field of palaeontology in the last two decades. Palaeontologists now have a whole new arsenal of powerful digital techniques available to study fossil organisms in unprecedented detail and to test hypotheses regarding function and behaviour. Multibody dynamics analysis (MDA) is one of these techniques and although it originated as a tool used in the engineering and automotive industry, it holds great potential to address palaeontological questions as well. MDA allows the simulation of dynamic movements in complex objects consisting of multiple linked components. As such, this technique is ideally suited to model biological structures and to obtain quantifiable results that can be used to test the function of musculoskeletal systems rigorously. However, despite these advantages, MDA has seen a slow uptake by the palaeontological community. The most likely reason for this lies in the steep learning curve and complexity of the method. This paper provides an overview of the underlying principles of MDA and outlines the main steps involved in conducting analyses. A number of recent studies using MDA to reconstruct the palaeobiology of fossil organisms are presented and the potential for future studies is discussed. Similar to other computational techniques, including finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics, the non‐invasive and exploratory power of MDA makes it ideally suited to study the form and function in vertebrates for which no modern analogues exist.
A systematic review of outcomes reported in pediatric perioperative research: A report from the Pediatric Perioperative Outcomes Group
Authors: Muhly Wallis T. , Taylor Elsa , Razavi Cyrus , Walker Suellen M. , Yang Lei , de Graaff Jurgen C. , Vutskits Laszlo , Davidson Andrew , Zuo Yunxia , Pérez‐Pradilla Carolina , Echeverry Piedad , Torborg Alexandra M. , Xu Ting , Rawlinson Ellen , Subramanyam Rajeev , Whyte Simon , Seal Robert , Meyer Heidi M. , Yaddanapudi Sandhya , Goobie Susan M. , Cravero Joseph P. , Keaney Aideen , Graham M. Ruth , Ramos Tania , Stricker Paul A. ,   The Pediatric Perioperative Outcomes Group
Published: July 2020

The Pediatric Perioperative Outcomes Group (PPOG) is an international collaborative of clinical investigators and clinicians within the subspecialty of pediatric anesthesiology and perioperative care which aims to use COMET (Core Outcomes Measures in Effectiveness Trials) methodology to develop core outcome sets for infants, children, and young people that are tailored to the priorities of the pediatric surgical population. Focusing on four age‐dependent patient subpopulations determined a priori for core outcome set development: (a) neonates and former preterm infants (up to 60 weeks postmenstrual age); (b) infants (>60 weeks postmenstrual age—<1 year); (c) toddlers and school age children (>1‐<13 years); and (d) adolescents (>13‐<18 years), we conducted a systematic review of outcomes reported in perioperative studies that include participants within age‐dependent pediatric subpopulations. Our review of pediatric perioperative controlled trials published from 2008 to 2018 identified 724 articles reporting 3192 outcome measures. The proportion of published trials and the most frequently reported outcomes varied across predetermined age‐groups. Outcomes related to patient comfort, particularly pain and analgesic requirement, were the most frequent domain for infants, children, and adolescents. Clinical indicators, particularly cardiorespiratory or medication‐related adverse events, were the most common outcomes for neonates and infants <60 weeks and were the second most frequent domain at all other ages. Neonates and infants <60 weeks of age were significantly under‐represented in perioperative trials. Patient‐centered outcomes, healthcare utilization, and bleeding/transfusion‐related outcomes were less often reported. In most studies, outcomes were measured in the immediate perioperative period, with the duration often restricted to the postanesthesia care unit or the first 24 postoperative hours. The outcomes identified with this systematic review will be combined with patient‐centered outcomes identified through a subsequent stakeholder engagement study to arrive at a core outcome set for each age‐specific group.
Femoral nerve catheters and limb strength asymmetry at 6 months after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in pediatric patients
Authors: Parikh Harin B. , Gagliardi Alexia G. , Howell David R. , Albright Jay C. , Mandler Tessa N.
Published: July 2020

Background

The postoperative implications of single‐injection femoral nerve blockade and femoral nerve catheter placement for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction are not well defined among pediatric patients. Femoral nerve blockade may be associated with deficits in quadriceps symmetry at 6 months postoperative.

Aims

We compared outcomes after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery in pediatric patients who received either a single‐injection femoral nerve block or femoral nerve catheter and a single‐injection popliteal nerve block.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients 10‐19 years of age who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with quadriceps tendon‐patellar bone autograft by a single orthopedic surgeon at two of our locations. Of 88 patients analyzed, 31 received single‐injection femoral nerve blockade (52% female, mean age = 15.6 ± 1.8 years) and 57 received femoral nerve catheter (53% female, mean age = 15.6 ± 1.7 years). Time from surgery to return‐to‐sport clearance and movement symmetry were compared between groups at approximately 6 months postoperatively.

Results

The single‐injection femoral nerve blockade group exhibited significantly greater single‐leg squat symmetry than did the femoral nerve catheter group (95.5 ± 6.7% vs 88.3 ± 9.3%; P = 0.02; mean difference = 7.2%, 95% CI = −1.1, 13.3) 6 months postoperatively. There was no difference in time from surgery to return‐to‐sport clearance between groups (median = 247 [interquartile range = 218‐295] days vs 268 [241‐331] days; P = 0.22; mean difference = 40 days; 95% CI = −23, 102).

Conclusion

Though time to return to sport did not differ, patients in the femoral nerve catheter group exhibited greater single‐leg squat asymmetry than did those in the femoral nerve blockade group approximately 6 months postoperatively. Persistent functional deficits may be important to consider when treating pediatric patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.
Resuscitation of a Phantom? On Robert Alexy’s Latest Attempt to Save His Concept of Principle
Authors: Poscher Ralf
Published: July 2020

This paper is my contribution to round three of a longstanding debate between Robert Alexy and me about the principles theory’s concept of principle. In the first round, Alexy—bucking tradition—proposed a nongradualist distinction between rules and principles that divided the ontology of norms into two categorically distinct norm‐types. He connected this norm‐theoretical analysis with a theory of fundamental rights according to which such rights had to be understood as principles and thus interpreted as optimization requirements. In the first round I objected to the norm‐theoretical assumptions and questioned the doctrinal merit of the principles theory approach. Unlike Alexy, I saw no merit in his notion of principle over and above optimization requirements, which by that time Alexy, too, regarded as rules. In round two, Alexy defended his concept of principle by taking refuge in the notion of an ideal ought, which he defined as a command to be optimized. In this second round, I criticized the new attempt to save his view of principles on the ground that the norms Alexy had in mind optimized not commands but states of affairs and thus were ordinary norms or rules according to the misguided taxonomy of the principles theory. Alexy opened round three of our exchange by admitting that my critique of round two was justified and that he had erred in identifying principles as ideal commands to be optimized. He now proposes an index theory of principles. In the paper, I recapitulate the motive and the main points of our debate and scrutinize Alexy’s latest innovation.
Immunoexpression of cytokine tumour necrosis factor‐α suggesting its role in formation and regression of corpus luteum in Indian buffalo
Authors: Kapoor Kritima , Singh Opinder , Pathak Devendra
Published: July 2020

Tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) is a cytokine that plays multiple important roles in corpus luteum (CL). Immunolocalization of expression of TNF‐α in CL of buffalo was studied in different stages of its development and regression. Corpus luteum of healthy buffaloes (24) was collected from local slaughterhouses and categorized into early (stage I, 1–5 days, n = 6), mid (stage II, 6–11 days, n = 6), late luteal (stage III, 12–16 days, n = 6) and regressing phase (stage IV, 17–20 days, n = 6). In earliest phase of cyclic CL, per cent immunoexpression of TNF‐α was significantly (p < .05) lower as compared to all phases with its expression being restricted to few developing luteal cells, usually in neutrophils. A significantly (p < .05) higher number of neutrophils with TNF‐α immunoexpression were observed as compared to mid‐luteal phase that indicated its role in initiation of angiogenesis at this stage. TNF‐α immunoexpression almost doubled in mid‐luteal phase, but the number of neutrophils exhibiting TNF‐α was significantly (p < .05) lower with respect to all phases of CL. Immunoexpression percentage in late luteal phase increased sharply being significantly (p < .05) higher than earlier two phases of CL. In regressing phase, per cent immunostaining was maximum with highly significant (p < .05) difference as compared to all other stages, observed in all degrading luteal cells, abundant immune cells, that is neutrophils and macrophages which finally led to apoptosis and phagocytosis. Immunoexpression of TNF‐α in early luteal phases served its role in initiation of angiogenesis, and its intense expression in regressing phase of CL suggested a shift in its role to apoptosis and structural luteal regression signifying both luteotropic and luteolytic roles in buffalo. This is probably the first study of its kind in buffaloes.
Public income transfers and wealth accumulation at the bottom: Within and between country differences in Canada and the United States
Authors: Rothwell David W. , Giordono Leanne S. , Robson Jennifer
Published: July 2020

Both Canada and the United States are considered liberal welfare states, yet exhibit notable differences in income poverty attributed to social policy. While a more generous welfare system lifts many above income poverty, models of household financial behaviour suggest that more income from the state should displace private savings via a substitution effect. Using nationally representative wealth surveys from Canada and the US from 1998/1999 to 2016 we extend knowledge on the relationship between the welfare state and private wealth accumulation. Specifically, we study household asset poverty defined as financial asset levels that fall below three‐month adjusted income poverty threshold. Asset poverty rates varied over time in the two countries and were higher in the less generous US welfare state. Further, income transfer share was positively related to asset poverty in Canada but not in the US. Counterfactual estimates offered evidence of the substitution effect in Canada, where higher levels of transfers may crowd out private asset accumulation. Results invite further consideration of the concept of asset poverty and its relationship to welfare state characteristics.
Comparison of the platelet activation status of single‐donor platelets obtained with two different cell separator technologies
Authors: Millar Daniel , Hayes Chelsea , Jones Jessica , Klapper Ellen , Kniep Joel N. , Luu Hung S. , Noland Daniel K. , Petitti Laura , Poisson Jessica L. , Spaepen Erik , Ye Zhan , Maurer‐Spurej Elisabeth
Published: July 2020

Background

The microparticle content (MP%) of apheresis platelets—a marker of platelet activation—is influenced by donor factors and by external stressors during collection and storage. This study assessed the impact of apheresis technology and other factors on the activation status (MP%) of single‐donor apheresis platelets.

Study Design and Methods

Data from six US hospitals that screened platelets by measuring MP% through dynamic light scattering (ThromboLUX) were retrospectively analyzed. Relative risks (RRs) were derived from univariate and multivariable regression models, with activation rate (MP% ≥15% for plasma‐stored platelets; ≥10% for platelet additive solution [PAS]‐stored platelets) and MP% as outcomes. Apheresis platform (Trima Accel vs Amicus), storage medium (plasma vs PAS), pathogen reduction, storage time, and testing location were used as predictors.

Results

Data were obtained from 7511 platelet units collected using Trima (from 16 suppliers, all stored in plasma, 20.0% were pathogen‐reduced) and 2456 collected using Amicus (from four different collection facilities of one supplier, 65.0% plasma‐stored, 35.0% PAS‐stored, none pathogen‐reduced). Overall, 30.0% of Trima platelets were activated compared to 45.6% of Amicus platelets (P < .0001). Multivariable analysis identified apheresis platform as significantly associated with platelet activation, with a lower activation rate for Trima than Amicus (RR: 0.641, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.578; 0.711, P < .0001) and a 6.901% (95% CI: 5.926; 7.876, P < .0001) absolute reduction in MP%, when adjusting for the other variables.

Conclusion

Trima‐collected platelets were significantly less likely to be activated than Amicus‐collected platelets, irrespective of the storage medium, the use of pathogen reduction, storage time, and testing site.
Phylogenomic analyses reveal a Palaeozoic radiation and support a freshwater origin for clitellate annelids
Authors: Erséus Christer , Williams Bronwyn W. , Horn Kevin M. , Halanych Kenneth M. , Santos Scott R. , James Samuel W. , Creuzé des Châtelliers Michel , Anderson Frank E.
Published: July 2020

Clitellata is a major clade of Annelida comprising nearly all freshwater and terrestrial annelids as well as several marine species. We investigated clitellate phylogenetic relationships using transcriptomes sampled from 74 taxa (64 clitellates and 10 polychaetes), including multiple representatives of nearly all major clitellate higher taxa (Branchiobdellida, Capilloventridae, Crassiclitellata, Enchytraeidae, Haplotaxidae, Hirudinida, Lumbriculida, Moniligastridae, Naididae, Parvidrilidae, Phreodrilidae, Propappidae and Randiellidae). We used a number of filtered data matrices and phylogenetic analyses to examine the effects of data partitioning, missing data and compositional and branch‐length heterogeneity and used the resulting phylogenies for divergence time estimation and ancestral habitat reconstructions. All analyses and filtering methods produced a consistent, strongly supported topology in which (a) Enchytraeidae, Hirudinida, Hirudinea (here, Branchiobdellida plus Hirudinida), Lumbriculida, Lumbriculata (Lumbriculida plus Hirudinea), Phreodrilidae and Naididae are monophyletic, (b) a Parvidrilidae + Randiellidae clade is sister to the rest of Clitellata, (c) Phreodrilidae is sister to Naididae, (d) Haplotaxidae is non‐monophyletic, with some haplotaxids grouping with Crassiclitellata + Moniligastridae, (e) the Phreodrilidae + Naididae clade is sister to all other clitellates except Parvidrilidae + Randiellidae and Capilloventridae, and (f) Lumbriculata is sister to the Crassiclitellata + Moniligastridae + Haplotaxidae (in part) clade. Ancestral habitat reconstructions and divergence time analysis suggested that the most recent common ancestor of Clitellata lived in freshwater during the Devonian (419–359 million years ago) and that all major extant clitellate lineages arose over the next ~150 million years, with multiple lineages subsequently returning to marine habitats or invading land. This study provides a phylogenetic framework for further investigation of the geological, environmental and biotic forces and genomic changes that may have impacted clitellate evolution and enabled several major habitat transitions within this group.
RISK AND SACRAMENT: BEING HUMAN IN A COVID‐19 WORLD
Authors: Norman Ziba , Reiss Michael J.
Published: July 2020

In this article we examine the changing relationship to risk as revealed by the covid‐19 pandemic and the ways this has, and may in future, alter sacramental practice, considering the radical effects this could have on traditional Christian practice. We consider the cultural trends that may lie behind this developing approach to risk, examining this in the context of an emergent transhuman identity that is technologically moderated and seeks to overcome risks of human mortality.
Transcriptome analysis of Tetranychus cinnabarinus responses to an insecticide exposure

Authors: Chen Jia , Ye Xianyan , Wang Jing , Xia Bin , Xin Tianrong
Published: July 2020

Diflubenzuron, a benzoylphenylurea insecticide that interferes with chitin biosynthesis, causes arthropods to moult abnormally and die. However, its mechanism of action in Tetranychus cinnabarinus is still unclear. In order to explore the effects of different sublethal concentrations of diflubenzuron on T. cinnabarinus, we conducted a high-throughput RNA-seq technology to identify the variations in transcriptomic profile of T. cinnabarinus larvae. The results revealed that 470 and 49 differentially expressed genes were identified in LC50-and LC70-treated groups, comparing with the control. We also identified and analyzed the detoxification enzymes involved in the transcritome of T. cinnabarinus, including 34 cytochrome P450 genes, 17 glutathione-s-transferase genes (GSTs), 12 acetylcholinesterase genes (AChEs) and 9 ABC transporter genes. In addition, differentially expressed genes analysis showed that the gene expression levels of detoxification enzymes were generally enhanced. At the same time, seven and eleven genes were involved in chitin synthesis and degradation ways, respectively. The expression level of most genes involved in chitin synthesis and degradation pathway were generally up-regulated after exposure to sublethal concentrations of diflubenzuron. Moreover, for transcriptome validation, the mRNA expression results of ten specially expressed genes by quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated that these gene expression trends were consistent with that of the transcriptome data. Together, all these results suggested that sublethal concentrations of diflubenzuron exposure affected gene expression of major detoxification enzymes and chitin metabolism genes in T. cinnabarinus larvae. These findings may be helpful to further understand the possible molecular mechanism of benzoylphenylurea insecticides in T. cinnabarinus, as well as in other spider mites.