bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological response, function of sweat glands, and hair follicle cycling in cattle in response to fescue toxicosis and hair genotype
Authors: Eisemann Joan H , Ashwell Melissa S , Devine Thomas L , Poole Daniel H , Poore Matt H , Linder Keith E
Published: January 2020

Fescue toxicosis is a syndrome that results when cattle consume toxic endophyte-infected tall fescue. The objective of this study was to compare the response in physiological variables, sweat gland function, hair follicle cycling, and gene expression to feeding a total mixed ration that included tall fescue haylage and tall fescue seed containing a toxic endophyte (EI) or tall fescue haylage containing a nontoxic novel endophyte (EN) in beef heifers (Angus × Senepol heifers, n = 31) with 2 different hair genotypes. Numbers in each subgroup were as follows: novel endophyte, heterozygous slick (EN-S; n = 8), novel endophyte, homozygous hairy (wild type, EN-W; n = 7), endophyte-infected, heterozygous slick (EI-S; n = 10), and endophyte-infected, homozygous hairy (wild type, EI-W; n = 6). Physiological measurements were taken weekly for 7 wk. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS including dietary fescue treatment (EN vs. EI) and hair genotype (S vs. W) as main effects, day as a repeated measure, and temperature–humidity index (THI) as a covariate. Skin biopsies were taken before treatment initiation and on day 37 of treatment. Average surface temperature (ST) increased as the THI increased (P < 0.0001). Average ST was greater (P < 0.01) for animals fed EI than for animals fed the EN fescue diet, and greater (P < 0.01) for animals with the W genotype compared with animals with the S genotype. The difference between heifers with the S and W genotype was greater at greater THI (genotype × day interaction, P < 0.01). Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was greater (P < 0.05) for animals with the S genotype compared with the W genotype and greater (P < 0.05) for heifers with the S genotype than for heifers with the W genotype when fed EI (36.7, 38.5, 30.0, and 38.7 g/m2 per hour for EN-W, EN-S, EI-W, and EI-S, respectively). The fraction of follicles in telogen in plucked hair samples for heifers fed EI was greater for animals with the S genotype than the W genotype (fraction in telogen: 0.456, 0.565, 0.297, 0.702 for EN-W, EN-S, EI-W, and EI-S, respectively; diet × genotype interaction, P < 0.05). Fraction of follicles in anagen was the opposite. EI fescue resulted in increased ST, changes in hair follicle cycling that support greater hair growth, and decreased TEWL for heifers with the W genotype compared with S genotype, suggesting greater heat stress in response to EI.
At least 3 days of adaptation are required before indigestible markers (chromium, titanium, and acid insoluble ash) are stabilized in the ileal digesta of 60-kg pigs, but values for amino acid digestibility are affected by the marker
Authors: Kim Beob G , Lee Su A , Park Kyu R , Stein Hans H
Published: January 2020

An experiment was conducted to 1) test the hypothesis that a minimum adaptation period to diets used in ileal amino acid (AA) digestibility experiments with pigs is needed and 2) to test the null-hypothesis that ileal digestibility and basal endogenous losses of AA are not affected by the indigestible marker used. Eight ileal-cannulated barrows with an initial BW of 58.1 ± 4.3 kg were randomly allotted to a 2-period crossover design with 2 diets and 4 pigs per diet in each period. A soybean meal-based diet and an N-free diet were prepared. Both diets contained 0.4% chromium oxide, 0.4% titanium dioxide, and 0.4% Celite (a source of acid insoluble ash; AIA). Pigs were provided feed in a daily amount of 3 times the maintenance requirement for metabolizable energy, and 2 equal meals were provided each day. Ileal digesta samples were collected from 0800 to 2000 h on each day during the two 9-d collection periods. There was no period by diet interactions observed. Marker concentrations in ileal digesta were analyzed separately for each day, and the point where the concentration of each marker was stabilized in the digesta was determined using a linear broken-line analysis. For pigs fed the soybean meal diet, the breakpoints for Cr, Ti, and AIA in ileal digesta were 2.70, 2.45, and 3.77 d, respectively. In pigs fed the N-free diet, the breakpoints for Cr, Ti, and AIA in ileal digesta were 2.52, 2.39, and 2.29 d, respectively. Based on the pooled data, the basal endogenous losses of most AA calculated using Cr as an indigestible marker were less (P < 0.05) than the values calculated using Ti, but greater (P < 0.05) compared with values calculated based on AIA. The standardized ileal digestibility of most AA in soybean meal calculated using Cr or Ti as a digestibility marker were greater (P < 0.05) than the digestibility values calculated using AIA. In conclusion, 3 d of adaptation is required before markers are stabilized in the ileal outflow if Cr or Ti is used as an indigestible marker and 4 d of adaptation is required if AIA is the marker. Values for AA digestibility calculated using Cr or Ti as the marker are not different, but greater compared with values calculated using AIA as the marker.
Overexpressing microRNA-34a overcomes ABCG2-mediated drug resistance to 5-FU in side population cells from colon cancer via suppressing DLL1
Authors: Xie Zheng-Yuan , Wang Fen-Fen , Xiao Zhi-Hua , Liu Si-Fu , Tang Sheng-Lan , Lai Yue-Liang
Published: January 2020

Colon cancer side population (SP) cells are a small subset of cancer cells that have cancer stemness capacity and enhanced drug resistance. ABCG2 is a multidrug resistance-related protein in SP cells and has been demonstrated to be regulated by Notch signalling pathway. Recently, microRNAs are reported to play a critical role in SP cell fate. However, their role in ABCG2-mediated drug resistance in colon cancer SP cells remains unclear. In the current study, the different expressions of miR-552, miR-611, miR-34a and miR-5000-3p were compared within SP and non-SP cells, which were separated from human colon cancer cell lines (SW480 and LoVo). We found that miR-34a was significantly down-regulated in SP cells and that overexpressing miR-34a overcame drug resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). The luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR-34a negatively regulated DLL1, a ligand of Notch signalling pathway, via binding with 3′-untranslated region of its messenger RNA. In addition, overexpressing miR-34a overcame ABCG2-mediated resistance to 5-FU via DLL1/Notch pathway in vitro, and suppressed tumour growth under 5-FU treatment in vivo. In conclusion, our findings suggest that miR-34a acts as a tumour suppressor via enhancing chemosensitivity to 5-FU in SP cells, which provides a novel therapeutic target in chemotherapy-resistant colon cancer.
A new erymoid lobster (Decapoda: Glypheidea: Erymidae) from the Upper Cretaceous of British Columbia, Canada, and a summary of Erymoidea from North America
Authors: Feldmann Rodney M , Schweitzer Carrie E , Haggart James W
Published: January 2020

The description of a new species of an erymid lobster, Stenodactylina beardi, from the Upper Cretaceous Haslam Formation of the Nanaimo Group on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, brings to fifteen the number of Erymidae in North America. The species are arrayed within five genera based upon configuration of carapace groove morphology, resulting in two new combinations, Stenodactylina bordenensis (Copeland, 1960) and S. foersteri (Feldmann, 1979). The new species exhibits for the first time a male pleopod and accessory structures within Erymoidea. We also provide a list of the North American species of Erymoidea.
τ-curve: introduction of cusps to aesthetic curves☆
Authors: Miura Kenjiro T , Suzuki Sho , Usuki Shin , Gobithaasan R U
Published: January 2020

Yan, Schiller, Wilensky, Carr, and Schaefer pointed out that one of the demerits of clothoid interpolation is a jumping behavior during the deformation of the curve. This phenomenon occurs because the clothoid curve cannot have a cusp, where the curve is kinked or the direction of the curve is abruptly changed. We discuss how to introduce cusps for the log-aesthetic curve including the clothoid curve and propose to use for the representation of a curve the direction angle instead of curvature and define a new curve named τ-curve, which is defined by the direction angle of the curve.
Durability of Cross-Protection by Different Schedules of the Bivalent HPV Vaccine: The CVT Trial
Authors: Tsang Sabrina H , Sampson Joshua N , Schussler John , Porras Carolina , Wagner Sarah , Boland Joseph , Cortes Bernal , Lowy Douglas R , Schiller John T , Schiffman Mark , Kemp Troy J , Rodriguez Ana Cecilia , Quint Wim , Gail Mitchell H , Pinto Ligia A , Gonzalez Paula , Hildesheim Allan , Kreimer Aimée R , Herrero Rolando ,   for the Costa Rica HPV Vaccine Trial (CVT) Group
Published: January 2020

Background

The Costa Rica HPV Vaccine Trial has documented cross-protection of the bivalent HPV vaccine against HPV31/33/45 up to 7 years after vaccination, even with one dose of the vaccine. However, the durability of such protection remains unknown. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of different schedules of the vaccine against HPV31/33/45 out to 11 years postvaccination, expanding to other nontargeted HPV types.

Methods

We compared the rates of HPV infection in vaccinated women with the rates in a comparable cohort of unvaccinated women. We estimated the average vaccine efficacy (VEavg) against incident infections and tested for a change in VE over time.

Results

Among 3-dose women, we observed statistically significant cross-protection against HPV31/33/45 (VEavg = 64.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 57.7% to 70.0%). Additionally, we observed borderline, statistically significant cross-protection against HPV35 (VEavg = 23.2%, 95% CI = 0.3% to 40.8%) and HPV58 (VEavg = 21.2%, 95% CI = 4.2% to 35.3%). There was no decrease in VE over time (two-sided Ptrend > .05 for HPV31, -33, -35, -45, and -58). As a benchmark, VEavg against HPV16/18 was 82.0% (95% CI = 77.3% to 85.7%). Among 1-dose women, we observed comparable efficacy against HPV31/33/45 (VEavg = 54.4%, 95% CI = 21.0% to 73.7%). Acquisition of nonprotected HPV types was similar between vaccinated and unvaccinated women, indicating that the difference in HPV infection rates was not attributable to differential genital HPV exposure.

Conclusions

Substantial cross-protection afforded by the bivalent vaccine against HPV31/33/45, and to a lesser extent, HPV35 and HPV58, was sustained and remained stable after 11 years postvaccination, reinforcing the notion that the bivalent vaccine is an effective option for protection against HPV-associated cancers.
Evaluation of Durability of a Single Dose of the Bivalent HPV Vaccine: The CVT Trial
Authors: Kreimer Aimée R , Sampson Joshua N , Porras Carolina , Schiller John T , Kemp Troy , Herrero Rolando , Wagner Sarah , Boland Joseph , Schussler John , Lowy Douglas R , Chanock Stephen , Roberson David , Sierra Mónica S , Tsang Sabrina H , Schiffman Mark , Rodriguez Ana Cecilia , Cortes Bernal , Gail Mitchell H , Hildesheim Allan , Gonzalez Paula , Pinto Ligia A ,   for the Costa Rica HPV Vaccine Trial (CVT) Group
Published: January 2020

Background

The authors investigated the durability of vaccine efficacy (VE) against human papillomavirus (HPV)16 or 18 infections and antibody response among nonrandomly assigned women who received a single dose of the bivalent HPV vaccine compared with women who received multiple doses and unvaccinated women.

Methods

HPV infections were compared between HPV16 or 18-vaccinated women aged 18 to 25 years who received one (N = 112), two (N = 62), or three (N = 1365) doses, and age- and geography-matched unvaccinated women (N = 1783) in the long-term follow-up of the Costa Rica HPV Vaccine Trial. Cervical HPV infections were measured at two study visits, approximately 9 and 11 years after initial HPV vaccination, using National Cancer Institute next-generation sequencing TypeSeq1 assay. VE and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. HPV16 or 18 antibody levels were measured in all one- and two-dose women, and a subset of three-dose women, using a virus-like particle-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (n = 448).

Results

Median follow-up for the HPV-vaccinated group was 11.3 years (interquartile range = 10.9–11.7 years) and did not vary by dose group. VE against prevalent HPV16 or 18 infection was 80.2% (95% CI = 70.7% to 87.0%) among three-dose, 83.8% (95% CI = 19.5% to 99.2%) among two-dose, and 82.1% (95% CI = 40.2% to 97.0%) among single-dose women. HPV16 or 18 antibody levels did not qualitatively decline between years four and 11 regardless of the number of doses given, although one-dose titers continue to be statistically significantly lower compared with two- and three-dose titers.

Conclusion

More than a decade after HPV vaccination, single-dose VE against HPV16 or 18 infection remained high and HPV16 or 18 antibodies remained stable. A single dose of bivalent HPV vaccine may induce sufficiently durable protection that obviates the need for more doses.
Primary Tau Pathology, Not Copathology, Correlates With Clinical Symptoms in PSP and CBD
Authors: Robinson John L , Yan Ning , Caswell Carrie , Xie Sharon X , Suh EunRan , Van Deerlin Vivianna M , Gibbons Garrett , Irwin David J , Grossman Murray , Lee Edward B , Lee Virginia M -Y , Miller Bruce , Trojanowski John Q
Published: January 2020

Distinct neuronal and glial tau pathologies define corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Additional Alzheimer disease, TDP-43, and Lewy body copathologies are also common. The interplay of these pathologies with clinical symptoms remains unclear as individuals can present with corticobasal syndrome, frontotemporal dementia, PSP, or atypical Parkinsonism and may have additional secondary impairments. We report clinical, pathological, and genetic interactions in a cohort of CBD and PSP cases. Neurofibrillary tangles and plaques were common. Apolipoprotein E (APOE)ε4 carriers had more plaques while PSP APOEε2 carriers had fewer plaques. TDP-43 copathology was present and age-associated in 14% of PSP, and age-independent in 33% of CBD. Lewy body copathology varied from 9% to 15% and was not age-associated. The primary FTD-Tau burden—a sum of the neuronal, astrocytic and oligodendrocytic tau—was not age-, APOE-, or MAPT-related. In PSP, FTD-Tau, independent of copathology, associated with executive, language, motor, and visuospatial impairments, while PSP with Parkinsonism had a lower FTD-Tau burden, but this was not the case in CBD. Taken together, our results indicate that the primary tauopathy burden is the strongest correlate of clinical PSP, while copathologies are principally determined by age and genetic risk factors.
A repressor complex silencing ABA signaling in seeds?
Authors: Nonogaki Hiroyuki
Published: January 2020

Seed dormancy is induced primarily by abscisic acid (ABA) and maintained through elevated levels of ABA sensitivity in seeds. The core mechanisms of ABA-imposed seed dormancy are emerging, but it is still unclear how these blockages in seeds are eliminated during after-ripening, or what molecular events in imbibed seeds are responsible for the initial stages of germination induction. Some pieces of evidence suggest that a repressor complex, which potentially triggers seed germination through the suppression of ABA signaling components, might be present in seeds. The usual suspect, protein phosphatase 2C, which inactivates kinases and shuts down ABA signaling in the major dormancy pathway, is possibly associated with this complex. Other members, such as WD40 proteins and histone deacetylase subunits, homologs of which are found in the flowering repressor complex, perhaps constitute this complex in seeds. The repressor activity could counteract the dormancy mechanisms in an overwhelming manner, through well-coordinated inactivation and turnover of germination-suppressing transcription factors, which is probably accompanied by chromatin silencing and transcriptional repression of the transcription factor target genes. This review provides a perspective on a putative seed germination-inducing repressor complex, including its possible modes of action and upstream regulators.
UDAT: Compound quantitative analysis of text using machine learning
Authors: Shamir Lior
Published: January 2020

Computing machines allow quantitative analysis of large databases of text, providing knowledge that is difficult to obtain without using automation. This article describes Universal Data Analysis of Text (UDAT) —a text analysis method that extracts a large set of numerical text content descriptors from text files and performs various pattern recognition tasks such as classification, similarity between classes, correlation between text and numerical values, and query by example. Unlike several previously proposed methods, UDAT is not based on frequency of words and links between certain key words and topics. The method is implemented as an open-source software tool that can provide detailed reports about the quantitative analysis of sets of text files, as well as exporting the numerical text content descriptors in the form of comma-separated values files to allow statistical or pattern recognition analysis with external tools. It also allows the identification of specific text descriptors that differentiate between classes or correlate with numerical values and can be applied to problems related to knowledge discovery in domains such as literature and social media. UDAT is implemented as a command-line tool that runs in Windows, and the open source is available and can be compiled in Linux systems. UDAT can be downloaded from http://people.cs.ksu.edu/∼lshamir/downloads/udat.
Candidate LBV stars in galaxy NGC 7793 found via HST photometry + MUSE spectroscopy
Authors: Wofford Aida , Ramírez Vanesa , Lee Janice C , Thilker David A , Della Bruna Lorenza , Adamo Angela , Van Dyk Schuyler D , Herrero Artemio , Kim Hwihyun , Aloisi Alessandra , Calzetti Daniela , Chandar Rupali , Dale Daniel A , de Mink Selma E , Gallagher John S , Gouliermis Dimitrios A , Grasha Kathryn , Grebel Eva K , Sacchi E , Smith Linda J , Úbeda Leonardo , Walterbos Rene A M , Hannon Stephen , Messa Matteo
Published: January 2020

Only about 19 Galactic and 25 extragalactic bonafide luminous blue variables (LBVs) are known to date. This incomplete census prevents our understanding of this crucial phase of massive star evolution which leads to the formation of heavy binary black holes via the classical channel. With large samples of LBVs one could better determine the duration and maximum stellar luminosity which characterize this phase. We search for candidate LBVs (cLBVs) in a new galaxy, NGC 7793. For this purpose, we combine high spatial resolution images from two Hubble Space Telescope (HST) programs with optical spectroscopy from the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE). By combining PSF-fitting photometry measured on F547M, F657N, and F814W images, with restrictions on point-like appearance (at HST resolution) and H α luminosity, we find 100 potential cLBVs, 36 of which fall in the MUSE fields. Five of the latter 36 sources are promising cLBVs which have MV ≤ −7 and a combination of: H α with a P-Cygni profile; no [O i]$\, \lambda 6300$ emission; weak or no [O iii]$\, \lambda 5007$ emission; large [N ii]/H α relative to H ii regions; and [S ii]$\, \lambda 6716$/[S ii]$\, \lambda 6731\sim 1$. It is not clear if these five cLBVs are isolated from O-type stars, which would favour the binary formation scenario of LBVs. Our study, which approximately covers one fourth of the optical disc of NGC 7793, demonstrates how by combining the above HST surveys with multi-object spectroscopy from 8-m class telescopes, one can efficiently find large samples of cLBVs in nearby galaxies.
A cosmic UV/X-ray background model update
Authors: Faucher-Giguère Claude-André
Published: January 2020

We present an updated model of the cosmic ionizing background from the UV to the X-rays. Relative to our previous model, the new model provides a better match to a large number of up-to-date empirical constraints, including: (1) new galaxy and AGN luminosity functions; (2) stellar spectra including binary stars; (3) obscured and unobscured AGN; (4) a measurement of the non-ionizing UV background; (5) measurements of the intergalactic H i and He ii photoionization rates at z ∼ 0−6; (6) the local X-ray background; and (7) improved measurements of the intergalactic opacity. In this model, AGN dominate the H i ionizing background at z ≲ 3 and star-forming galaxies dominate it at higher redshifts. Combined with the steeply declining AGN luminosity function beyond z ∼ 2, the slow evolution of the H i ionization rate inferred from the high-redshift H i Ly α forest requires an escape fraction from star-forming galaxies that increases with redshift (a population-averaged escape fraction of $\approx 1{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ suffices to ionize the intergalactic medium at z = 3 when including the contribution from AGN). We provide effective photoionization and photoheating rates calibrated to match the Planck 2018 reionization optical depth and recent constraints from the He ii Ly α forest in hydrodynamic simulations.
The faint radio source population at 15.7 GHz – IV. The dominance of core emission in faint radio galaxies
Authors: Whittam I H , Green D A , Jarvis M J , Riley J M
Published: January 2020

We present 15-GHz Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array observations of a complete sample of radio galaxies selected at 15.7 GHz from the Tenth Cambridge (10C) survey. 67 out of the 95 sources (71 per cent) are unresolved in the new observations and lower frequency radio observations, placing an upper limit on their angular size of ∼2 arcsec. Thus, compact radio galaxies, or radio galaxies with very faint jets, are the dominant population in the 10C survey. This provides support for the suggestion in our previous work that low-luminosity ($L\lt 10^{25} \, \textrm{W~Hz}^{-1}$) radio galaxies are core dominated, although higher resolution observations are required to confirm this directly. The 10C sample of compact, high-frequency selected radio galaxies is a mixture of high-excitation and low-excitation radio galaxies and displays a range of radio spectral shapes, demonstrating that they are a mixed population of objects.
Global and local mechanical properties control endonuclease reactivity of a DNA origami nanostructure
Authors: Suma Antonio , Stopar Alex , Nicholson Allen W , Castronovo Matteo , Carnevale Vincenzo
Published: January 2020

We used coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to characterize the global and local mechanical properties of a DNA origami triangle nanostructure. The structure presents two metastable conformations separated by a free energy barrier that is lowered upon omission of four specific DNA staples (defect). In contrast, only one stable conformation is present upon removing eight staples. The metastability is explained in terms of the intrinsic conformations of the three trapezoidal substructures. We computationally modeled the local accessibility to endonucleases, to predict the reactivity of twenty sites, and found good agreement with the experimental data. We showed that global fluctuations affect local reactivity: the removal of the DNA staples increased the computed accessibility to a restriction enzyme, at sites as distant as 40 nm, due to an increase in global fluctuation. These results raise the intriguing possibility of the rational engineering of allosterically modulated DNA origami.
Peripartum Cardiomyopathy Incidence, Risk Factors, Diagnostic Criteria, Pathophysiology, and Treatment Options
Authors: Zagelbaum Nicole K. , Bhinder Jasjit , Gupta Chhaya Aggarwal , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: January 2020

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare and a severe form of heart failure that affects women during pregnancy or shortly after delivery. Risk factors include advanced age, race, multiparity, multifetal pregnancy, socioeconomic disparity, and medical comorbidities including systemic hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and anemia. Peripartum cardiomyopathy is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, as well as a detrimental long-term impact on quality of life. Its etiology is not clear, although it is thought to be a combined effect of a hyperdynamic fluid state associated with pregnancy, hormonal changes unique to gestation, and a genetic predisposition. There is no current expert consensus on an optimal treatment regimen. This article will provide a comprehensive review and update on this important disease state.
Cluster of Vacuolated Spinous Keratinocytes: A Clue to Cornoid Lamellation and a Case of Porokeratosis Disseminata
Authors: Keller Lauren P. , Halim Kareem , Abedi Syed M. , Liu Wentao , Gottesman Silvija P.
Published: January 2020

Cornoid lamella is a definitive diagnostic feature of porokeratosis, a disorder of keratinization that has various different clinical presentations. A tiered column of parakeratosis and a diminished granular layer with dyskeratotic keratinocytes at the column base are all useful and known features of cornoid lamellation. We have found a cluster of vacuolated spinous cells to be a reliable fourth feature of cornoid lamellation and a feature when present alone to be a reliable sign of impending cornoid lamellation on deeper sections. Furthermore, we present a novel clinical phenotype of disseminated papular porokeratosis with effective clinical response to combination of phototherapy, oral and topical retinoids, and topical vitamin D derivative, which too contained all 4 features of cornoid lamellation.
Incidence of New Neuropsychiatric Disorder Diagnoses Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Albrecht Jennifer S. , Abariga Samuel A. , Rao Vani , Wickwire Emerson M.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Neuropsychiatric disturbances (NPDs) are common following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and associated with poor recovery. Prior estimates of NPD following TBI failed to account for preexisting NPDs or potential confounding.

Methods:

We estimated the risk of anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and alcohol and substance dependence disorder diagnoses associated with TBI using administrative claims data from a large insurer in the United States, 2008-2014. We calculated rates of new NPD diagnoses during the 12 months before and 24 months after TBI and estimated the risk of NPD following TBI using a difference-in-difference approach and adjusting for confounders.

Results:

Before the TBI occurred, rates of NPD diagnoses were more than double in the TBI cohort (n = 207 354) relative to the no-TBI cohort (n = 414 708). TBI was associated with an increased risk of anxiety (rate ratio [RtR] = 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.12) and PTSD (RtR = 1.41; 95% CI, 1.24-1.60) diagnoses. Rates of alcohol (RtR = 0.32; 95% CI, 0.30-0.34) and substance use disorder (RtR = 0.57; 95% CI, 0.55-0.59) diagnoses decreased following TBI.

Conclusions:

In this large national study, rates of NPD were much higher among individuals with TBI than those in a non-TBI cohort, even before the TBI took place. TBI was associated with an increased risk of anxiety and PTSD diagnoses. Results from this study also suggest that individuals who sustain TBI have increased contact with the healthcare system during the months prior to injury, providing a window for intervention, especially for individuals diagnosed with alcohol dependence disorder.
A Clinical Trial Investigating Telehealth and In-Person Social Communication Skills Training for People With Traumatic Brain Injury: Participant-Reported Communication Outcomes
Authors: Rietdijk Rachael , Power Emma , Attard Michelle , Heard Robert , Togher Leanne
Published: January 2020

Objective:

To investigate the efficacy of telehealth-based and in-person social communication skills training (TBIconneCT) for people with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) based on outcomes reported by the survivor and a close communication partner.

Setting:

Australia. Two telehealth dyads were located outside Australia.

Participants:

Adults (n = 51) at least 6 months after moderate-severe TBI with social communication skills deficits, and their usual communication partners (family members, friends, or paid carers).

Design:

Partially randomized controlled trial, with a telehealth intervention group, in-person intervention group, and a historical control group.

Main Measures:

La Trobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ) (total score, and number of items with perceived positive change). Both self- and other-reports.

Results:

Trained participants had significantly more items with perceived positive change than did historical controls. A medium effect size in the sample was observed for improvements in total score reported by trained communication partners after treatment. Comparisons between telehealth and in-person groups found medium to large effect sizes in the sample, favoring the telehealth group on some LCQ variables.

Conclusions:

Whether delivered via telehealth or in-person, social communication skills training led to perceived positive change in communication skills. It was unexpected that outcomes for the telehealth group were better than for the in-person group on some variables.
Influence of Prior and Intercurrent Brain Injury on 5-Year Outcome Trajectories After Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Rabinowitz Amanda R. , Chervoneva Inna , Hart Tessa , O'Neil-Pirozzi Therese M. , Bogner Jennifer , Dams-O'Connor Kristen , Brown Allen W. , Johnson-Greene Doug
Published: January 2020

Objective:

To characterize the influence of additional (both prior and subsequent) traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) on recovery after a moderate to severe index TBI.

Setting:

Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems centers.

Participants:

Persons with moderate to severe TBI (N = 5054) enrolled in the TBI Model Systems National Database with complete outcome data for the outcomes of interest at 1-, 2-, and 5-year follow-up.

Design:

Secondary analysis of a prospective longitudinal data set.

Main Measures:

Prior and intercurrent TBI from the Ohio State University TBI Identification Method (OSU TBI-ID), Disability Rating Scale (DRS), and Functional Independence Measure (FIM).

Results:

Prior moderate-severe TBIs significantly predicted overall level of functioning on the DRS, FIM Cognitive, and FIM Motor for participants with less severe index injuries. Moderate-severe intercurrent TBIs (TBIs subsequent to the index injury) were predictive of poorer functioning for both Index Severity groups, reflected in higher mean scores on the DRS in participants with less severe index injuries and lower mean Cognitive FIM in participants with more severe index injuries.

Conclusion:

Multiple brain injuries, particularly those of moderate or greater severity, have a significantly greater impact on patients' level of functioning compared with a single injury, but not the rate or shape of recovery.
Comparative Effectiveness of Microprocessor-Controlled and Carbon-Fiber Energy-Storing-and-Returning Prosthetic Feet in Persons with Unilateral Transtibial Amputation: Patient-Reported Outcome Measures
Authors: Kaluf Brian , Duncan Ashley , Bridges William
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Microprocessor ankles (MPAs) have recently been developed for persons with lower-limb amputation to overcome known limitations of fixed-ankle energy-storing-and-returning (ESAR) feet. This study aimed to examine differences in patient-reported balance, mobility, socket comfort, and preference between an ESAR foot and an MPA in persons with unilateral transtibial amputation (UTA).

Materials and Methods

Twenty-three participants with UTA enrolled in an institutional review board–approved, randomized crossover protocol with ESAR (Pacifica LP) and microprocessor-ankle configurations (Kinnex, Freedom Innovations) and a 4-week accommodation period. The outcome measures collected included Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC), Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire–Mobility Subscale (PEQ-MS), and Prosthetic Limb User Survey of Mobility (PLUS-M). Participants were asked to rate Socket Comfort Score (SCS) while ascending and descending a 15° sloped ramp. Finally, ankle-foot preference and aspects liked and disliked about each configuration were recorded.

Results

Significant improvements were seen with the MPA in patient-reported mobility in the community (PEQ-MS, ρ = 0.0465) and socket comfort walking and standing on slopes (SCS, ρ < 0.001). Differences in balance confidence (ABC) did not reach a level of significance, whereas improvement in perceived mobility with a prosthesis approached a level of significance (PLUS-M, ρ = 0.102). When asked, 81% of participants preferred the MPA over the ESAR foot. Participants reported positively about the reduced weight of the ESAR foot, whereas they frequently reported that the MPA was better on slopes and uneven terrain.

Conclusions

The 30° range of motion in the MPA can allow greater mobility when ambulating on typical environmental barriers (e.g., uneven terrain, ramps, and stairs) and allow patients to stand and walk on slopes with less socket discomfort. Most participants preferred the MPA. Frequently reported positive and negative aspects of both systems may be useful for patient consultation regarding ankle-foot technology. This study represents the largest known investigation of MPAs, and the results provide evidence of benefits from MPAs over ESAR feet in persons with UTA.
Assessment of media reportage of monkeypox in southern Nigeria
Authors: Wogu Joseph Oluchukwu , Chukwu Christiana Ogeri , Orekyeh Emeka S.S. , Nwankiti Chukwuemeka Ononuju , Okoye-Ugwu Stella
Published: January 2020

Monkeypox is a zoonotic viral disease. Media campaigns are planned to create awareness about the disease. This is because mass media is often the leading source of information and mobilization during important health issues or crisis. The main objective of this study was to assess the media coverage of monkeypox outbreak in Nigeria.

The study adopted a cross-sectional survey of residents in Southern Nigeria. A total of 600 respondents were sampled for this study through a multi-stage cluster random sampling technique. Research assistants helped in collecting data from respondents through structured questionnaire. The data collected was analyzed using percentages, mean score, and univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Respondents had little or no knowledge of monkeypox virus, its nature, mode of transmission, and prevention mechanism (2.30 ± .918, P 
= .000). Respondents stated that they learnt about the virus through friends and social institutions instead of media (4.44 ± .945, P 
= .006). Media failed to create effective and comprehensive awareness campaigns to mobilize the public (1.86 ± 1.196, P 
= .001), while inappropriate and insufficient media programs and lack of funds were blamed for media ineffectiveness (4.18 ± 1.352, P 
= .004).

The outbreak of monkeypox virus is a public health concern in Nigeria. Media campaigns are planned to raise awareness about the disease; however, these campaigns have not demonstrated effectiveness in changing people's health behavior toward monkeypox. Media, health professionals, and government should synergize to promote a consistent health policy for the control and prevention of monkeypox virus.
A long-term retrospective study on sporadic Burkitt lymphoma in chinese population
Authors: Yang Xiaoyun , Huang Qianru , Li An , Chen Yuan , Xu Wei , Li Jianyong , Wang Yaping , Fang Yongjun
Published: January 2020

Burkitt lymphoma (BL), an aggressive malignancy, brings a prognosis varying among children, adolescents, and adults. Most of previous retrospective studies of BL focused on a part of population. This study aimed to find the leading prognostic factors in BL among patients of different age groups. World Health Organization classification of lymphoid neoplasms in 2008 and revision in 2016 were used as diagnostic criteria for BL. We compared the laboratory results and clinical manifestations in 2 age groups by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Our study strongly indicated that age >14 years and lactate dehydrogenase >570 U/L were 2 powerful prognostic factors for BL. The results indicated that poor prognosis may be for the poor tolerance and low dose of drugs in adolescents and adults.
Epidemiology of low-energy wrist, hip, and spine fractures in Chinese populations 50 years or older
Authors: Zhu Yanbin , Xing Xin , Liu Song , Chen Wei , Zhang Xiaolin , Zhang Yingze
Published: January 2020

The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence of low-energy fracture of wrist, hip, and spine and the related risk factors in Chinese populations 50 years or older.

This study was a part of the Chinese National Fracture Survey (CNFS) carried out in 8 Chinese provinces in 2015. Data on 154,099 Chinese men and women 50 years or older were extracted from the CNFS database for calculations and analyses. Low-energy fracture was defined as fracture caused by slip, trip, or falls from standing height.

A total of 247 patients sustained low-energy fractures in 2014, indicating the incidence rate was 160.3/100,000 person-years, with 120.0 [95% confidence interval (CI), 95.5–144.5] and 213.1(95% CI, 180.7–245.6)/100,000 person-years in men and women, respectively. In men, advanced age, alcohol consumption, residence at second floor or above without elevator, sleep duration <7 h/day, and history of past fracture were identified to be significant risk factors for low-energy fractures. In women, advanced age, living in east region, higher latitude zone (40°N –49.9°N), alcohol consumption, more births, sleep duration <7 h/day, and history of past fracture were identified as significant risk factors. Supplementation of calcium or vitamin D or both was identified to be associated with reduced risk of fracture in women (odds ratio, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.20–0.75), but not in men.

These epidemiologic data on low-energy fractures provided updated clinical evidence base for national healthcare planning and preventive efforts in China. Corresponding interventions such as decreasing alcohol consumption and sleep improvement should clearly be implemented. For women, especially those with more births and past history of fracture, routine screening of osteoporosis, and intensive nourishment since menopause should be advocated.
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous injection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa-mannose sensitive hemagglutinin for treatment of chyle fistula following neck dissection
Authors: Chen Qiang , Chen Yanling , Su Anping , Ma Yu , Yu Boyang , Zou Xiuhe , Peng Dongmei , Zhu Jingqiang
Published: January 2020

Rationale:

Chyle fistula is a rare but troublesome complication of neck dissection. Topical application of Pseudomonas aeruginosa-mannose sensitive hemagglutinin (PA-MSHA) injection has been reported as a novel, viable, and effective approach in the treatment of chyle fistula following neck dissection. However, there have been no reports regarding the treatment of chyle fistula using ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous injection of PA-MSHA.

Patient concerns:

We describe 2 patients with thyroid cancer who developed chyle fistula following neck dissection, which remained unresolved despite the use of conservative treatment.

Diagnoses:

Both the patients were diagnosed with chyle fistula by laboratory testing, which showed that drainage fluid triglyceride concentration was >100 mg/dL.

Interventions:

When conservative treatment failed, a 2 mL undiluted PA-MSHA preparation was percutaneously injected at the effusion site of the left supraclavicular area under US guidance with aseptic technique. Concomitantly, the drainage tube was clamped for at least 30 minutes.

Outcomes:

Chyle fistula in both patients were successfully resolved with this technique within 2 or 4 days, without notable side effects.

Lessons:

US-guided percutaneous injection of PA-MSHA is a simple and effective method to treat chyle fistula following neck dissection, which may serve as a useful addition to the medical treatment for cervical chyle fistula.
Association between interleukin-10 -1082A/G polymorphism and risk of ischemic stroke
Authors: Zuo Shuang , Zheng Tingting , Li Haishan
Published: January 2020

The Interleukin-10 -1082A/G polymorphism has been indicated to be correlated with ischemic stroke susceptibility, but the results of studies are still debatable. Thus, a meta-analysis was carried out.

Databases including PubMed, Embase, and CNKI were searched. Data were extracted and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

12 case-control studies with 2722 cases and 2405 controls were included in this meta-analysis. IL-10 -1082A/G polymorphism may decrease the risk of ischemic stroke (G vs A: OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.59–0.87; GG vs AA: OR = 0.59, 95% CI:0.48–0.74; AG vs AA: OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51–0.93; GG+AG vs AA: OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.50–0.84; GG vs AG+AA: OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.55–0.93). Meanwhile, similar results were also observed in matched studies, hospital-based subgroup, Asians, and large sample-size studies.

In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggested that the IL-10 -1082A/G polymorphism contributes to decreased ischemic stroke risk. Further large-scale and well-designed studies are still needed to confirm the results of our meta-analysis.
Busting the myth of extended blastocyst culture until Day 7
Authors: Alteri Alessandra , Corti Laura , Cermisoni Greta Chiara , Papaleo Enrico , Viganò Paola , Noventa Marco
Published: January 2020

Background:

The prolonged culture of embryos to the blastocyst stage represents an increasing procedure in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laboratories. Generally, only blastocysts developing on Day 5 and Day 6 are considered suitable embryos for transfer, cryopreservation or biopsy while embryos developed at a slower rate after Day 6 are routinely discarded. However, also blastocysts developing on Day 7 can be viable and result in a healthy live birth. Unfortunately, data regarding the clinical outcomes of Day 7 blastocysts compared to blastocysts developing on Day 5 or Day 6 are controversial. In this systematic review and aggregate data meta-analysis, we aim to evaluate the real reproductive potential of delayed blastocysts on Day 7 in frozen cycles.

Methods:

We will include all studies, with no restriction regarding the study design (randomized and observational trials, including cohort and case-control), investigating the clinical success of blastocysts developed on Day 7 compared to Day 5 and Day 6 blastocysts. The primary outcomes are the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) following frozen-thawed embryo transfer (Day 7 vs Day 6, and Day 5); secondary outcomes are: live birth rate (LBR) following frozen-thawed embryo transfer, euploid rate and survival rate of thawed blastocyst. Two reviewers independently will judge the methodological quality of studies included in the meta-analysis using the criteria reported in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions or the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale according to the design of the trials. The meta-analysis will be performed using random effects models and heterogeneity will be assessed using Higgins I2 value. Summary estimate of the proportion of each outcome will be expressed as pooled proportion with 95% confidence interval (CI). The effect of the day on each outcome will be evaluated using a multilevel mixed-effects model with a moderator (the day). The effect will be expressed as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). A P value less than .05 will be considered statistically significant.

Ethics and dissemination:

This is a systematic review not requiring an ethical approval. Findings derived from this systematic review and meta-analysis will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
A randomized controlled trial study protocol for Xiao-Qing-Long decoction in the treatment of refractory asthma
Authors: Yang Hongjing , Zhang Chuantao , Gan Wenfan , Chen Jun , Wu Jianying , Xiao Wei , Yang Yang , Zhao Keni , Sun Zengtao , Xie Xiaohong , Huang Qingsong
Published: January 2020

Introduction:

People with refractory asthma (RA) often seek help from Chinese medicine due to dissatisfaction with conventional treatments. External cold and internal fluid syndrome is the most common type of asthma and the Chinese herbal medicine formula Xiao-Qing-Long (XQL) decoction is commonly prescribed for patients with asthma with this syndrome. However, there is no direct evidence to support the efficacy and safety of XQL decoction for RA treatment and its potential mechanism is still unclear.

Methods:

We propose a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized superiority trial. After a 2-week run-in period, 112 eligible participants will be recruited and randomly allocated to an experimental group or control group in a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the experimental group will take XQL decoction, while patients in the control group will receive a matched placebo. Symbicort Turbuhaler and Montelukast sodium tablets will be provided as the basic treatment for the 2 groups. All participants will receive 4 weeks of treatment and 12 weeks of follow-up. The primary outcome is the mean change in the asthma control test score from the baseline to 4 weeks posttreatment. The secondary outcomes include quality of life, lung function, curative effect of traditional Chinese medicine, and rescue medication used. This trial will also include analyses of the associations between intestinal microbiota and RA treatment. Any side effects of the treatment will be recorded.

Discussion:

The results of this trial will provide consolidated evidence of the effect of XQL decoction for RA and the potential mechanism by which XQL decoction acts, which will inform treatment options for patients with RA.