bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report of ruptured amoebic liver abscess causing cardiac tamponade and requiring pericardial window
Authors: Francis Cliojis , Soni Swati , Gupta Anunay , Agstam Sourabh
Published: August 2020

Background

Amoebiasis is a prevalent infection in the tropics. Amoebic liver abscess is the most common extraintestinal manifestation. Cardiac tamponade is an uncommon complication of amoebic liver abscess that may need urgent pericardiocentesis.

Case summary

A 25-year-old man presented with abdominal pain and fever for 1 month. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a 4.7 × 4.7 cm abscess in the left lobe of the liver. Percutaneous pigtail drainage was performed to evacuate the abscess. After 2 days, the patient developed signs of cardiac tamponade and bilateral pleural effusion, requiring urgent pericardiocentesis and chest drain insertion. Persistent posterior collection of thick abscess in pericardium needed pericardial window for complete drainage. The patient recovered completely after pericardial window. There was no evidence of chronic constrictive pericarditis after 1 year of follow-up.

Discussion

A rare complication of the amoebic liver abscess was observed in this young adult who developed cardiac tamponade, requiring an urgent pericardiocentesis, and later requiring pericardial window. Management includes amoebicidal and luminicidal drugs for complete eradication of Entamoeba histolytica.
A Characterisation of ‘Phelpsian’ Statistical Discrimination
Authors: Chambers Christopher P , Echenique Federico
Published: August 2020

We establish that a type of statistical discrimination—that based on informativeness of signals about workers’ skills and the ability appropriately to match workers to tasks—is possible if and only if it is impossible uniquely to identify the signal structure observed by an employer from a realised empirical distribution of skills. The impossibility of statistical discrimination is shown to be equivalent to the existence of a fair, skill-dependent, remuneration for workers. Finally, we connect the statistical discrimination literature to Bayesian persuasion, establishing that if discrimination is absent, then the optimal signalling problem results in a linear pay-off function (as well as a kind of converse).
May Measurement Month 2018: blood pressure screening results in Cameroon
Authors: Dzudie Anastase , Njume Epie , Boombhi Jerome , Awungia Alexis , Ndom Marie S , Ebasone Peter Vanes , Djomou A Armel , Ba Hamadou , Mfekeu Liliane K , Menanga Alain , Kamdem Felicite , Xia Xin , Ster Anca Chis , Beaney Thomas , Poulter Neil , Kingue Samuel
Published: August 2020

Hypertension is a global public health challenge, but awareness, treatment, and control rates remain low. May Measurement Month (MMM) creates a platform for awareness creation and opportunistic screening which can identify significant numbers with raised blood pressure (BP). We present results of the 2018 edition of MMM in Cameroon. A cross-sectional survey of self-selected volunteers aged ≥18 years was conducted in May 2018. The definition of hypertension and statistical analyses followed the standard protocol. Data were collected from 28 public (indoors and outdoors) and private locations which were assigned unique site identification numbers, over a 30-day period. Of the 8883 participants screened, 53.8% were male and the median age was 35 (interquartile range 21) years, and 30.0% reported not having a previous BP measurement. After imputation, 1867 (21.0%) were hypertensive, 645 (34.5%) were aware of their diagnosis, and 507 (27.2%) were on antihypertensive medication, among whom 242 (47.8%) had controlled BP. In linear regression models adjusting for age, sex, and the use of antihypertensive medication, systolic and diastolic BP were significantly higher in participants aware of their diagnosis, those on antihypertensive medication, and who reported alcohol intake of 1–3 times per month and, one or more times per week. Hypertension prevalence is the lowest, and awareness, treatments, and control rates the highest reported in epidemiological studies in Cameroon in the last two decades. Further surveys will be useful in evaluating the impact, if any, of the MMM campaign on the burden of hypertension in the Cameroon.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analyses of blood pressure screening results from Cabo Verde
Authors: Azevedo Vanda , Dias Luís , Soares Irenita , Garcia Glenda , Xia Xin , Ster Anca Chis , Beaney Thomas , Poulter Neil R
Published: August 2020

Raised blood pressure (BP) is the biggest contributor to mortality and disease burden in Cabo Verde. May Measurement Month (MMM) is a global campaign set up in 2017 to raise awareness of high BP. In 2018, we aimed to expand the campaign by including a greater number of centres to increase awareness. Nine islands participated in MMM 2018. Volunteers (≥18 years) were recruited through opportunistic sampling at a variety of screening sites. Each participant had three BP measurements and completed a questionnaire on demographic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg, or taking antihypertensive medication. In total, 98.0% of screenees provided three BP readings and multiple imputation using chained equations was used to impute missing readings. A total of 8008 individuals (mean age 40.4 years; 68.5% female) were screened. After multiple imputation, 2666 (33.3%) individuals had hypertension, of whom 74.8% were aware of their previous diagnosis and 55.8% were taking antihypertensive medication. Of those on medication, 39.1% were controlled and of all hypertensives, 21.8% were controlled. We detected 44.2% of individuals with untreated hypertension and 60.9% of treated individuals were inadequately treated. The Cape Verdean population is ageing and consequently cardiovascular disease is increasing, with hypertension being an important risk factor. Corrective actions need to be taken by the government. MMM is an ideal initiative to reach the public by raising awareness of this major cardiovascular risk factor.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results in Georgia
Authors: Tsinamdzgvrishvili Bezhan , Gamkrelidze Amiran , Trapaidze Dali , Sturua Lela , Grdzelidze Nino , Abesadze Tamar , Mebonia Nana , Shengelia Lela , Kereselidze Maia , Tkeshelashvili Lika , Vakhtangadze Tamar , Asatiani Nino , Beaney Thomas , Ster Anca Chis , Poulter Neil R
Published: August 2020

May Measurement Month (MMM) is aimed at raising public awareness about arterial hypertension—the main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases in the population. Screening was carried out at 200 sites on a national scale. More than 500 volunteers, including doctors (80%) and medical students (20%) participated in the screening. To familiarize them with the research tools and standard blood pressure (BP) measurement method, their training was conducted by the Georgian Society of Hypertension in Tbilisi and other large cities. Social and mass media, medical societies, and other stakeholders were actively involved in the recruitment process. A total of 10 756 people were screened. The mean age of participants was 53.1 years (SD 16.1). Males—67.9%, females—32.1%. One hundred percent were White. After multiple imputation, the number of hypertensive patients was 6.037 (56.1%) and out of them 4950 were aware and 4701 (77.9%) were on medication, 1336 (22.1%) were not taking a medication. Of those taking antihypertensive medication, 38.2% had controlled BP. In spite of non-randomized selection and certain restrictions with respect to extrapolation of the results, MMM comprehensively reflects an urgent problem and major gaps in the health system. Based on the above, its importance is extremely valuable for identifying public health policy priorities.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Ghana
Authors: Twumasi-Ankrah Betty , Myers-Hansen Gustavus A , Adu-Boakye Yaw , Tannor Elliot K , Nyarko Obed O , Boakye Edwin , Lincoln Mary D , Quarshie Gloria A , Deku Enoch M , Galley Matilda E , Beaney Thomas , Ster Anca Chis , Xia Xin , Poulter Neil
Published: August 2020

Elevated blood pressure (BP) is one of the leading risk factors for death and disability globally. It is also an important global health challenge because of its high prevalence and resulting morbidities. Albeit, a substantial number of people who have hypertension are either oblivious of it, not treated, or being managed but remain uncontrolled. May Measurement Month (MMM) is a global initiative led by the International Society of Hypertension (ISH) with the goal of increasing awareness of high BP and serving as a spur to establish screening programmes worldwide. An opportunistic cross-sectional survey of volunteers aged ≥18 years was carried out in May 2018. Measurement of BP and collection of relevant health information were performed according to a standardized protocol for MMM. Screening sites were set up in churches, mosques, health facilities, pharmacies, recreational parks, sports facilities, shopping centres, marketplaces, universities, workplaces, and community centres across four regions of Ghana. A total of 6907 participants were screened during MMM 2018. After multiple imputation, 2354 (34.1%) had hypertension. Of individuals not taking antihypertensive medications 1526 (25.1%) were hypertensive of whom 48.4% were aware of having it. Also, of individuals taking antihypertensive medications 432 (52.2%) had uncontrolled BP. Data obtained from this project demonstrates that a significant number of people with hypertension are unaware of having it, are untreated, or are on treatment but remain uncontrolled. It also highlights the effectiveness of BP screening campaigns as a tool to identify persons with elevated BP.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Italy
Authors: Torlasco Camilla , Faini Andrea , Ferri Claudio , Grassi Guido , Salvetti Massimo , Destro Maurizio , Cicero Arrigo F G , Galletti Ferruccio , Ghiadoni Lorenzo , Carugo Stefano , Sarzani Riccardo , Minuz Pietro , Morganti Alberto , Mulatero Paolo , Mulè Giuseppe , Savoia Carmine , Volpe Massimo , Borghi Claudio , Beaney Thomas , Ster Anca Chis , Poulter Neil R , Xia Xin , Parati Gianfranco
Published: August 2020

Cardiovascular (CV) diseases are burdened by high mortality and morbidity, being responsible for half of the deaths in Europe. Although hypertension is recognized as the most important CV risk factor, hypertension awareness and blood pressure (BP) control are still unsatisfactory. In 2017, 30.6% of a >10 000 individual sample who took part in the May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign in Italy was found to have high BP. To raise awareness on the hypertension issue and to report BP data on a nation-wide scale in Italy. In the frame of the MMM campaign, an opportunistic cross-sectional survey of volunteers aged ≥18 was carried out in May 2018. Blood pressure measurement, the definition of hypertension and statistical analysis followed the standard MMM protocol. Screenings were conducted in multiple sites by health care personnel. Among the 5554 people screened (females: 48.3%, mean age 58 ± 17 years) mean BP was 127/77 mmHg, and after imputations, 1462 (26.3%) participants were found to have high BP levels. Body mass index >25 was associated with higher systolic BP and diastolic BP (DBP), while diabetes was associated with high DBP only. Our data provide a nation-wide snapshot of BP control in a sample of individuals participating in a national health care campaign, and confirm the power of this kind of healthcare-related activities in reaching a significant number of people to raise awareness on health topics. The apparent positive trend in BP control compared to available data from other similar campaigns carried out during the past years needs to be confirmed with more methodologically robust studies.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Nigeria
Authors: Wahab Kolawole W , Kolo Philip M , Sani Mahmoud U , Okubadejo Njide U , Peter Johnson O , Aigbe Fred , Makusidi Muhammad A , Aje Akinyemi , Adewale Arimiyau , Adebola Phillip , Beaney Thomas , Ster Anca Chis , Poulter Neil R , Xia Xin , Omotoso Ayodele B
Published: August 2020

Hypertension remains the dominant cardiovascular risk factor worldwide. May Measurement Month (MMM) is an annual global programme of the International Society of Hypertension aimed at screening for undetected hypertension in the general population. We report the outcome of MMM 2018 in Nigeria. An opportunistic screening of adults aged at least 18 years was conducted in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria in the month of May, 2018. Screening for hypertension was done by trained volunteers with the use of validated digital and mercury sphygmomanometers following the MMM protocol. Hypertension was defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥140/90 mmHg or the use of BP-lowering medication. There were 6398 participants (53.0% female) with a mean (SD) age of 41.7 (15.0) years. Hypertension was present in 36.4% of the participants with 51.1% of the hypertensives aware of their status, 41.8% on medication, of whom 43.1% were controlled. Overall, only 18.0% of all hypertensive participants had their BP under control. The proportion with hypertension is high, and awareness, treatment, and control rates are low. Concerted efforts are needed to improve awareness and treatment of hypertension in Nigeria in order to reduce the high rate of complications associated with uncontrolled BP.
Maladaptive Changes Associated With Cardiac Aging Are Sex-Specific and Graded by Frailty and Inflammation in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Kane Alice E , Bisset Elise S , Heinze-Milne Stefan , Keller Kaitlyn M , Grandy Scott A , Howlett Susan E
Published: August 2020

We investigated whether late-life changes in cardiac structure and function were related to high levels of frailty and inflammation in male and female mice. Frailty (frailty index), ventricular structure/function (echocardiography), and serum cytokines (multiplex immunoassay) were measured in 16- and 23-month-old mice. Left ventricular (LV) mass and septal wall thickness increased with age in both sexes. Ejection fraction increased with age in males (60.4 ± 1.4 vs 68.9 ± 1.8%; p < .05) but not females (58.8 ± 2.5 vs 62.6 ± 2.4%). E/A ratios declined with age in males (1.6 ± 0.1 vs 1.3 ± 0.1; p < .05) but not females (1.4 ± 0.1 vs 1.3 ± 0.1) and this was accompanied by increased ventricular collagen levels in males. These changes in ejection fraction (r = 0.52; p = .01), septal wall thickness (r = 0.59; p = .002), E/A ratios (r = −0.49; p = .04), and fibrosis (r = 0.82; p = .002) were closely graded by frailty scores in males. Only septal wall thickness and LV mass increased with frailty in females. Serum cytokines changed modestly with age in both sexes. Nonetheless, in males, E/A ratios, LV mass, LV posterior wall thickness, and septal wall thickness increased as serum cytokines increased (eg, IL-6, IL-3, IL-1α, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, eotaxin, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α), while ejection fraction declined with increasing IL-3 and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor. Cardiac outcomes were not correlated with inflammatory cytokines in females. Thus, changes in cardiac structure and function in late life are closely graded by both frailty and markers of inflammation, but this occurs primarily in males. This suggests poor overall health and inflammation drive maladaptive changes in older male hearts, while older females may be resistant to these adverse effects of frailty.
17α-Estradiol Modulates IGF1 and Hepatic Gene Expression in a Sex-Specific Manner
Authors: Sidhom Silvana , Schneider Augusto , Fang Yimin , McFadden Samuel , Darcy Justin , Sathiaseelan Roshini , Palmer Allyson K , Steyn Frederik J , Grillari Johannes , Kopchick John J , Bartke Andrzej , Siddiqi Shadab , Masternak Michal M , Stout Michael B
Published: August 2020

Aging is the greatest risk factor for most chronic diseases. The somatotropic axis is one of the most conserved biological pathways that regulates aging across species. 17α-Estradiol (17α-E2), a diastereomer of 17β-estradiol (17β-E2), was recently found to elicit health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity and extend longevity exclusively in male mice. Given that 17β-E2 is known to modulate somatotropic signaling in females through actions in the pituitary and liver, we hypothesized that 17α-E2 may be modulating the somatotropic axis in males, thereby contributing to health benefits. Herein, we demonstrate that 17α-E2 increases hepatic insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) production in male mice without inducing any changes in pulsatile growth hormone (GH) secretion. Using growth hormone receptor knockout (GHRKO) mice, we subsequently determined that the induction of hepatic IGF1 by 17α-E2 is dependent upon GH signaling in male mice, and that 17α-E2 elicits no effects on IGF1 production in female mice. We also determined that 17α-E2 failed to feminize the hepatic transcriptional profile in normal (N) male mice, as evidenced by a clear divergence between the sexes, regardless of treatment. Conversely, significant overlap in transcriptional profiles was observed between sexes in GHRKO mice, and this was unaffected by 17α-E2 treatment. Based on these findings, we propose that 17α-E2 acts as a pleiotropic pathway modulator in male mice by uncoupling IGF1 production from insulin sensitivity. In summary, 17α-E2 treatment upregulates IGF1 production in wild-type (and N) male mice in what appears to be a GH-dependent fashion, while no effects in female IGF1 production are observed following 17α-E2 treatment.
Developing the Canadian Indigenous Cognitive Assessment for Use With Indigenous Older Anishinaabe Adults in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Jacklin Kristen , Pitawanakwat Karen , Blind Melissa , O’Connell Megan E , Walker Jennifer , Lemieux Andrine M , Warry Wayne
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

Dementia is a growing public health issue for aging Indigenous populations. Current cognitive assessments present varying degrees of cultural, educational, and language bias, impairing their application in Indigenous communities. Our goal is to provide Anishinaabe communities in Canada with a brief cognitive test that can be administered within the community setting by community health workers or professionals. The purpose of this study was to adapt the Kimberly Indigenous Cognitive Assessment (KICA) for use as a brief cognitive test with Anishinaabe populations in Canada.

Research Design and Methods

We used a community-based participatory research approach coupled with two-eyed seeing to provide an equitable space for Indigenous knowledge. Adaptation of the KICA was accomplished over 22 months using an iterative cycle of monthly consultations between an 11-member expert Anishinaabe language group (EALG) and the investigators, with ad hoc consultations with an Indigenous Elder, a community advisory council, and the KICA authors. Face validity was established with two pilot studies using cognitive interviewing with Indigenous older adults (n = 15) and a focus group consultation with local health professionals (n = 7).

Results

Each question of the KICA was scrutinized by the EALG for cultural appropriateness, language and translation, and cultural safety. Every domain required adaptation to reflect cultural values, specificity of language, tone, and a culturally safe approach. Orientation, verbal comprehension and fluency, praxis, and naming domains required the most adaptations. The first pilot for face validity resulted in additional changes; the second confirmed satisfactory adaptation of all changes.

Discussion and Implications

The research resulted in the new Canadian Indigenous Cognitive Assessment. The findings reveal important cultural and linguistic considerations for cross-cultural cognitive assessment in Indigenous contexts. This new culturally appropriate and safe brief cognitive test may improve case finding accuracy and lead to earlier diagnosis and improved dementia care for Indigenous peoples.
Terminal Ileum Thickness During Maintenance Therapy Is a Predictive Marker of the Outcome of Infliximab Therapy in Crohn Disease
Authors: Albshesh Ahmad , Ungar Bella , Ben-Horin Shomron , Eliakim Rami , Kopylov Uri , Carter Dan
Published: August 2020

Background

Mucosal healing has been associated with long-term response to therapy for Crohn disease (CD). However, little is known about the significance of terminal ileum (TI) transmural thickness in predicting clinical outcomes.

Methods

In this retrospective observational cohort study, we examined the association of an index ultrasonographic assessment of TI thickness during the maintenance phase and the subsequent clinical outcome of CD in a cohort of patients treated with infliximab (IFX). Treatment failure was defined as treatment discontinuation because of lack of efficacy, a need for dose escalation, or surgery. Clinical response was defined as treatment continuation in the absence of any of the aforementioned failure criteria.

Results

Sixty patients with CD receiving IFX therapy were included in the study. The patients were followed for a median of 16 months (5-24 months) after an index intestinal ultrasound. Thirty-eight patients (63.3%) maintained response to the therapy and 22 patients (36.6%) failed the treatment, with a mean follow up of 10.5 months (6.5-17 months) vs 9.25 months (1-10.25 months), respectively. On univariate analysis, the only variables differing between treatment response and failure were a TI thickness of 2.8 vs 5 mm (P < 0.0001) and an IFX trough level of 6.6 vs 3.9 µg/mL (P = 0.008).

On multivariable analysis, only a small bowel thickness of ≥4 mm was associated with the risk of treatment failure (odds ratio, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.49-5.55; P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that transmural thickness of ≥4 mm can predict subsequent treatment failure in patients with CD treated using IFX, indicating transmural thickness <4 mm as a potential novel valuable therapeutic target.
Clinical Variables Associated With Statural Growth in Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Differ by Sex (The Growth Study)
Authors: Gupta Neera , Lustig Robert H , Andrews Howard , Gokhale Ranjana , Goyal Alka , Patel Ashish S , Guthery Stephen , Sylvester Francisco , Siebold Leah , Leu Cheng-Shiun
Published: August 2020

Background

Statural growth impairment is more common in male patients with Crohn’s disease (CD). We identified clinical variables associated with height z score differences by sex in children participating in the Growth Study, a prospective multicenter longitudinal study examining sex differences in growth impairment in pediatric CD.

Methods

Patients with CD (female patients with bone age [BA] ≥4 years 2 months and ≤12 years; male patients with BA ≥5 years and ≤14 years at screening) who had completed study visit 1 qualified. The height z score difference was computed as height z score based on chronological age minus height z score based on BA.

Results

One hundred thirteen patients with CD (36% female) qualified. The mean chronological age was 12.0 ± 1.8 (SD) years. The magnitude of the mean height z score difference was significantly greater in female patients (–0.9 ± 0.8) than in male patients (–0.5 ± 0.9; P = 0.021). An initial classification of inflammatory bowel disease as CD (P = 0.038) and perianal disease behavior at diagnosis (P = 0.009) were associated with higher standardized height gain with BA progression, and arthralgia at symptom onset (P = 0.016), azathioprine/6-merpcaptopurine (P = 0.041), and probiotics (P ≤ 0.021) were associated with lower standardized height gain with BA progression in female patients. Patient-reported poor growth at symptom onset (P = 0.001), infliximab (P ≤ 0.025), biologics (P ≤ 0.015), methotrexate (P = 0.042), and vitamin D (P ≤ 0.010) were associated with higher standardized height gain with BA progression, and initial classification as CD (P = 0.025) and anorexia (P = 0.005) or mouth sores (P = 0.004) at symptom onset were associated with lower standardized height gain with BA progression in male patients.

Conclusions

Different clinical variables were associated with statural growth in male patients vs female patients, suggesting that sex-specific molecular pathways lead to statural growth impairment in CD.
The Diverse Roles of the IL-36 Family in Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Resolution
Authors: Leon Gemma , Hussey Seamus , Walsh Patrick T
Published: August 2020

The interleukin (IL)-36 family is a member of the IL-1 superfamily of cytokines and, in common with other IL-1 family members, has been shown to exhibit pleiotropic effects in homeostasis and inflammation. Although the important role these cytokines play in the skin has been widely reported, recent evidence suggests that IL-36 family members are expressed and can also exert significant influence at the intestinal mucosa. In this review, we summarize current knowledge surrounding the role of the IL-36 in the intestines. In particular, we examine its likely dichotomous role as a mediator of both inflammation and resolution, highlighting its overlapping roles in innate and adaptive inflammation at the mucosa and its contribution to pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease. We also summarize the complexities of targeting this cytokine family in a clinical setting.
Genetic and nongenetic factors influencing ewe prolificacy and lamb body weight in a closed Romanov flock
Authors: Murphy Thomas W , Keele John W , Freking Brad A
Published: August 2020

The U.S. Meat Animal Research Center was the first entity in the United States to import the Romanov breed and it has been maintained as a closed flock for over 30 yr. Incorporating this super-prolific breed into crossbred and composite populations has resulted in large improvements in ewe productivity. However, few have quantified factors contributing to genetic and nongenetic variation in ewe reproduction and lamb growth within purebred Romanov populations, which were the objectives of this study. The pedigree contained a total of 8,683 lambs born to 218 and 1,600 unique sires and dams, respectively. Number of lambs born on a per ewe exposed (NLBE) and lambing (NLBL) basis were analyzed in univariate repeatability animal models. As expected, the proportion of phenotypic variance (σP2) in litter size attributable to additive genetic (0.06 to 0.08) and permanent environmental (0.05 to 0.07) effects of the ewe was low. The service sire permanent environmental effect contributed to a small but significant amount of σP2 in NLBE (0.03) but not NLBL. However, the service sire additive genetic effect did not influence σP2 in NLBE or NLBL. Lamb body weight was recorded at birth (BWB) and upon weaning from either milk replacer (~30 d; BWW-N) or their dam (~60 d; BWW-D) and were analyzed in a three-trait model with random additive direct and maternal effects. Estimated direct heritabilities were low for all body weight (BW) traits (0.07 to 0.10). Maternal heritability was moderate for BWB (0.34) but low for weaning BW (0.11 to 0.18). This was the first to report direct and maternal genetic correlations between BW of nursery- and dam-reared lambs, and both were estimated to be moderate (0.43 to 0.47). Additionally, the direct and maternal effects of BWB were more strongly correlated with BWW-N (0.74 to 0.82) than BWW-D (0.17 to 0.33). Despite inbreeding coefficients having increased at a rate of 0.33% per birth year (1986 to 2019) in this flock, they were not consistently associated with reductions in ewe or lamb performance. Parameter estimates generally agreed with those from less-prolific breeds, and results indicate that selection can be an effective means of improving subcomponents of ewe productivity.
Effect of supplementation of unprotected or protected arginine to prolific ewes on maternal amino acids profile, lamb survival at birth, and pre- and post-weaning lamb growth
Authors: Gootwine Elisha , Rosov Alexander , Alon Tamir , Stenhouse Claire , Halloran Katherine M , Wu Guoyao , Bazer Fuller W
Published: August 2020

This research determined the effects of dietary supplementation with rumen-protected arginine (Pro-Arg) on metabolites and amino acids in maternal plasma and lamb survival rate at birth (LSRAB) in prolific Afec–Assaf ewes. The hypothesis was that Pro-Arg, the precursor for nitric oxide and polyamines, would increase placental development and vascularity, uteroplacental blood flow, and nutrient transport and reduce oxidative stress to increase LSRAB. Ewes were fed either their basal diet, basal diet with Pro-Arg, or basal diet with unprotected arginine (Unp-Arg; 18 g/head/d). The supplemental arginine was about 1% of the dry matter intake from day 40 or 60 of gestation until parturition. Ninety-two of 98 ewes produced live lambs. Ewes fed Pro-Arg had greater (P = 0.002) concentrations of arginine and other amino acids in plasma, whereas Unp-Arg did not affect concentrations of arginine, but decreased (P < 0.05) concentrations of some amino acids. There was no effect of treatments on gestation length (144 ± 2 d), prolificacy (2.65 lambs born per ewe), LSRAB (0.80), body weight (88.8 ± 10.8 kg), and body condition score (2.8 ± 0.6) of ewes, or birth weight and crown-rump length of lambs. The GI (BW/CRL1.5) was affected by sex of lamb (P = 0.008), parity of ewe (P = 0.002), litter size (P = 0.0001), and lamb status (P = 0.003). Of 229 lambs born, 32 were dead and 16 died before 5 mo of age, leaving 181 lambs with records on weights at birth and 5 mo of age. Interestingly, lambs born to ewes fed the Unp-Arg and Pro-Arg weighed 3.6 kg less at postnatal day 150 than lambs from control ewes.
Media Freedom in the Shadow of a Coup
Authors: Boleslavsky Raphael , Shadmehr Mehdi , Sonin Konstantin
Published: August 2020

Popular protests and palace coups are the two domestic threats to dictators. We show that free media, which informs citizens about their rulers, is a double-edged sword that alleviates one threat, but exacerbates the other. Informed citizens may protest against a ruler, but they may also protest to restore her after a palace coup. We develop a model in which citizens engage in a regime-change global game, and media freedom is a ruler’s instrument for Bayesian persuasion, used to manage the competing risks of coups and protests. A coup switches the status quo from being in the ruler’s favor to being against her. This introduces convexities in the ruler’s Bayesian persuasion problem, causing her to benefit from an informed citizenry. Rulers tolerate freer press when citizens are pessimistic about them, or coups signal information about them to citizens.
Dietary Supplementation With Vitamins and Minerals Improves Larvae and Adult Rearing Conditions of Anopheles darlingi (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Nascimento Débora Aline Souza , Trindade Frances Tatiane Tavares , Silva Alexandre de Almeida e
Published: August 2020

Several experiments with Anopheles darlingi Root, an important malaria vector in the Amazon region, were carried out in the laboratory, depending on the large-scale production of viable larvae and adults. Certainly, improvements in rearing conditions, including dietary requirements, can strongly affect mosquito production. In order to increase the production of this species in the laboratory, we first supplemented the regular larval diet (TetraMin Tropical Flakes) with different concentrations of vitamins and minerals and recorded several biological variables: survival and larval development time, emergence ratio, and adult longevity under a small-scale rearing condition. Second, we established an experimental design under regular lab-rearing conditions based on the concentration of vitamins and minerals that best contributed to the development of these anophelines, and evaluated the biological parameters already mentioned. Moreover, under regular rearing conditions, we recorded sex ratio, adult size, and longevity of adults fed with supplemented sucrose. The lowest concentration of vitamins (V5) and the average concentration of minerals (M3) increased larval survival and decreased larval development time compared with the control. Under regular rearing conditions, minerals provided higher larval survival and increased the longevity of adults fed with supplemented sucrose. Supplementing the regular larval diet and sucrose solutions with vitamins and minerals increased the production of immatures and the longevity of An. darlingi adults.
Population Growth Rates of Aedes atropalpus (Diptera: Culicidae) Are Depressed at Lower Temperatures Where Aedes japonicus japonicus (Diptera: Culicidae) Are Naturally Abundant in Rock Pools
Authors: Day Corey A , Armstrong Eleanor G , Byrd Brian D
Published: August 2020

Recent studies report extensive reductions in the abundance of the North American rock pool mosquito, Aedes atropalpus (Diptera: Culicidae), following the invasion of Ae. japonicus japonicus in the United States. Although developmental temperature is recognized as an important component of the invasion biology of Ae. j. japonicus, its impacts on the population growth and fitness of Ae. atropalpus remain largely undefined. In this study we reared Ae. atropalpus larvae at three temperature ranges reflecting ecologically important temperatures in natural rock pools: a low temperature range (mean: 19°C) where Ae. j. japonicus is common and Ae. atropalpus is often rare, a middle temperature range (mean: 25°C) where both species are naturally found in similar relative abundances, and a higher temperature range (mean: 31°C) where Ae. atropalpus is the dominant species. We measured survival, development time, wing length, and fecundity to calculate a finite population growth rate at each temperature. Our results indicate that Ae. atropalpus population growth suffers in colder rock pools, which informs the perceived displacement of the species in temperate habitats. The population growth rate was highest in the middle temperature range, but not significantly higher than in the highest temperature range used in this study. The developmental success of Ae. atropalpus at the intermediate temperature range suggests that competition with Ae. j. japonicus in rock pools within that range may significantly impact natural Ae. atropalpus populations.
Dimensionality reduction for single cell RNA sequencing data using constrained robust non-negative matrix factorization
Authors: Zhang Shuqin , Yang Liu , Yang Jinwen , Lin Zhixiang , Ng Michael K
Published: August 2020

Single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology, a powerful tool for analyzing the entire transcriptome at single cell level, is receiving increasing research attention. The presence of dropouts is an important characteristic of scRNA-seq data that may affect the performance of downstream analyses, such as dimensionality reduction and clustering. Cells sequenced to lower depths tend to have more dropouts than those sequenced to greater depths. In this study, we aimed to develop a dimensionality reduction method to address both dropouts and the non-negativity constraints in scRNA-seq data. The developed method simultaneously performs dimensionality reduction and dropout imputation under the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) framework. The dropouts were modeled as a non-negative sparse matrix. Summation of the observed data matrix and dropout matrix was approximated by NMF. To ensure the sparsity pattern was maintained, a weighted ℓ1 penalty that took into account the dependency of dropouts on the sequencing depth in each cell was imposed. An efficient algorithm was developed to solve the proposed optimization problem. Experiments using both synthetic data and real data showed that dimensionality reduction via the proposed method afforded more robust clustering results compared with those obtained from the existing methods, and that dropout imputation improved the differential expression analysis.
The cIMPACT-NOW updates and their significance to current neuro-oncology practice
Authors: Gonzalez Castro L Nicolas , Wesseling Pieter
Published: August 2020

Over the past 4 years, advances in molecular pathology have enhanced our understanding of CNS tumors, providing new elements to refine their classification and improve the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of CNS tumors. The Consortium to Inform Molecular and Practical Approaches to CNS Tumor Taxonomy—Not Official WHO (cIMPACT-NOW) was formed in late 2016 by a group of neuropathology and neuro-oncology experts to provide practical recommendations (published as cIMPACT-NOW updates) to improve the diagnosis and classification of CNS tumors, in advance of the publication of a new WHO Classification of CNS tumors. Here we review the content of all the available cIMPACT-NOW updates and discuss the implications of each update for the diagnosis and management of patients with CNS tumors.
Income Inequality Is Associated With Low Cumulative Antiretroviral Adherence in Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Vernon Frances , Morrow Mary , MaWhinney Samantha , Coyle Ryan , Coleman Stacey , Ellison Lucas , Zheng Jia-Hua , Bushman Lane , Kiser Jennifer J , Galárraga Omar , Anderson Peter L , Castillo-Mancilla Jose
Published: August 2020

Background

The adherence biomarker tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) in dried blood spots (DBS) is associated with viral suppression and predicts future viremia. However, its association with social determinants of health (SDoH) in people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) remains unknown.

Methods

Dried blood spots for TFV-DP were longitudinally collected from a clinical cohort of PWH receiving tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based therapy (up to 3 visits over 48 weeks) residing in 5 Colorado counties. To assign SDoH, zip codes at enrollment were matched with SDoH data from AIDSVu (https://aidsvu.org/). The SDoH included household income, percentage living in poverty, education level, and income inequality (quantified using Gini coefficient, where 0 and 1 represent perfect income equality and inequality, respectively). Log-transformed TFV-DP concentrations were analyzed using a mixed-effects model to estimate percentage change (95% confidence interval) in TFV-DP for every significant change in the SDoH and adjusted for relevant covariates including age, gender, race, estimated glomerular filtration rate, body mass index, hematocrit, CD4+ T-cell count, antiretroviral drug class, and 3-month self-reported adherence.

Results

Data from 430 PWH totaling 950 person-visits were analyzed. In an adjusted analysis, income inequality was inversely associated with TFV-DP in DBS. For every 0.1 increase in the Gini coefficient, TFV-DP concentrations decreased by 9.2% (−0.5 to −17.1; P = .039). This remained significant after adjusting for human immunodeficiency virus viral suppression, where a 0.1 increase in Gini was associated with a decrease of 8.7% (−0.3 to −17.9; P = .042) in TFV-DP.

Conclusions

Higher income inequality was associated with lower cumulative antiretroviral adherence. These findings support the need for further research on how SDoH impact adherence and clinical care.
Powassan Virus Neuropathology and Genomic Diversity in Patients With Fatal Encephalitis
Authors: Normandin Erica , Solomon Isaac H , Zamirpour Siavash , Lemieux Jacob , Freije Catherine A , Mukerji Shibani S , Tomkins-Tinch Christopher , Park Daniel , Sabeti Pardis C , Piantadosi Anne
Published: August 2020

Background

Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging cause of severe encephalitis; very little is known about human pathogenicity due to challenges in diagnosis and viral RNA recovery. We present 3 patients with fatal encephalitis due to POWV lineage II (deer tick virus).

Methods

We obtained 27 unique samples, including from brain biopsy and autopsy, and used metagenomic sequencing, quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and a newly developed CRISPR-based diagnostic assay to perform the first detailed characterization of POWV compartmentalization and genomics between and within human subjects.

Results

In all 3 patients, imaging and histopathology findings were notable for profound cerebellar involvement. All patients were initially diagnosed with POWV by metagenomic sequencing, and 2 of the 3 had negative clinical testing by serology. We detected POWV RNA in 13 clinical samples; levels were highest in the cerebellum, and there was very little involvement of peripheral tissue. We assembled complete POWV genomes from 8 samples, providing unique information about the strains of POWV lineage II (deer tick virus) that infect humans.

Conclusions

We demonstrate the utility of molecular assays for detecting POWV infection, including in seronegative patients, and nominate viral genomic features that may relate to human infection and neuropathogenicity. The cerebellum was identified as a key target POWV in fatal infection, by radiological and histopathological findings as well as molecular testing.
Successful Antiviral Therapy Reduces Risk of Schizophrenia Among Chronic Hepatitis C Patients: A Nationwide Real-World Taiwanese Cohort (T-COACH)
Authors: Tsai Pei-Chien , Chen Chi-Yi , Kuo Hsing-Tao , Hung Chao-Hung , Tseng Kuo-Chih , Lai Hsueh-Chou , Peng Cheng-Yuan , Wang Jing-Houng , Chen Jyh-Jou , Lee Pei-Lun , Chien Rong-Nan , Yang Chi-Chieh , Lo Gin-Ho , Kao Jia-Horng , Liu Chun-Jen , Liu Chen-Hua , Yan Sheng-Lei , Bair Ming-Jong , Lin Chun-Yen , Su Wei-Wen , Chu Cheng-Hsin , Chen Chih-Jen , Tung Shui-Yi , Tai Chi-Ming , Lin Chih-Wen , Lo Ching-Chu , Cheng Pin-Nan , Chiu Yen-Cheng , Wang Chia-Chi , Cheng Jin-Shiung , Tsai Wei-Lun , Lin Han-Chieh , Huang Yi-Hsiang , Yeh Ming-Lun , Huang Chung-Feng , Hsieh Meng-Hsuan , Huang Jee-Fu , Dai Chia-Yen , Chung Wan-Long , Ke Chiao-Li Khale , Yu Ming-Lung
Published: August 2020

Background

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) has been associated with major psychoses, and interferon (IFN)-based therapy may cause psychiatric sequelae. We aimed to evaluate the effects of sustained virological response (SVR) on the incidence of major psychoses in a nationwide Taiwanese CHC cohort.

Methods

Fifteen thousand eight hundred thirty-six CHC Taiwanese who received IFN-based therapy were enrolled between 2003 and 2015. Of those, 12 723 patients were linked to the National Health Insurance Research Databases for the incidence of major psychoses. Death before major psychoses was considered a competing risk.

Results

Twenty-four patients developed new-onset major psychoses during 67 554 person-years (3.6 per 10 000 person-years), including 16 affective psychoses, 7 schizophrenia, and 1 organic psychotic condition. The incidence of major psychoses and affective psychoses did not differ between the SVR and non-SVR groups. The 10-year cumulative incidence of schizophrenia were significantly higher in the non-SVR than in SVR patients (0.14% vs 0.04%, P = .036). Cox subdistribution hazards showed that SVR and older age were associated with a significantly lower risk of schizophrenia (hazard ratio = 0.18 and 0.17). Sustained virological response was associated with decreased incidence of schizophrenia and majorly observed among patients with age <45 (P = .02).

Conclusions

Successful IFN-based therapy might reduce the incidence of schizophrenia among CHC patients, especially among younger patients.
Social Media Survey and Web Posting Assessment of the COVID-19 Response in China: Health Worker Attitudes Toward Preparedness and Personal Protective Equipment Shortages
Authors: Huang Dayong , Shu Wen , Li Menglong , Ma Juntao , Li Ziang , Gong JiaJian , Khattab Nourhan M , Vermund Sten H , Hu Yifei
Published: August 2020

Background

Understanding health worker awareness, attitudes, and self-confidence in the workplace can inform local and global responses toward emerging infectious threats, like the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Availability of accessible personal protective equipment (PPE) is vital to effective care and prevention.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey from February 24 to 28, 2020, to assess COVID-19 preparedness among health workers. In addition, we assessed trends from search engine web crawling and text-mining data trending over the Sina Weibo platform from January 1 to March 3, 2020. Data were abstracted on Chinese outbreak preparedness.

Results

In the survey, we engaged 6350 persons, of whom 1065 agreed to participate, and after an eligibility logic check, 1052 participated (16.6%). We accessed 412 internet posts as to PPE availability. Health workers who were satisfied with current preparedness to address COVID-19 were more likely to be female, to obtain knowledge about the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak from government organizations, and to consider their hospital prepared for outbreak management. Health workers with more confidence in their abilities to respond were those with more faith in their institution’s response capacities. Elements of readiness included having airborne infection isolation rooms, visitor control procedures, and training in precautions and PPE use. Both survey and web post assessments suggested that health workers in need were unable to reliably obtain PPE.

Conclusions

Health workers’ self-confidence depends on perceived institutional readiness. Failure to maintain available PPE inventory for emerging infectious diseases preparedness suggests a failure to learn key lessons from the 2003–2004 SARS outbreak in China.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Latinx Patients With COVID-19 in Comparison With Other Ethnic and Racial Groups
Authors: Izzy Saef , Tahir Zabreen , Cote David J , Al Jarrah Ali , Roberts Matthew Blake , Turbett Sarah , Kadar Aran , Smirnakis Stelios M , Feske Steven K , Zafonte Ross , Fishman Jay A , El Khoury Joseph
Published: August 2020

Background

There is a limited understanding of the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the Latinx population. We hypothesized that Latinx patients would be more likely to be hospitalized and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) than White patients.

Methods

We analyzed all patients with COVID-19 in 12 Massachusetts hospitals between February 1 and April 14, 2020. We examined the association between race, ethnicity, age, reported comorbidities, and hospitalization and ICU admission using multivariable regression.

Results

Of 5190 COVID-19 patients, 29% were hospitalized; 33% required the ICU, and 4.3% died. Forty-six percent of patients were White, 25% Latinx, 14% African American, and 3% Asian American. Ethnicity and race were significantly associated with hospitalization. More Latinx and African American patients in the younger age groups were hospitalized than whites. Latinxs and African Americans disproportionally required the ICU, with 39% of hospitalized Latinx patients requiring the ICU compared with 33% of African Americans, 24% of Asian Americans, and 30% of Whites (P < .007). Within each ethnic and racial group, age and male gender were independently predictive of hospitalization. Previously reported preexisting comorbidities contributed to the need for hospitalization in all racial and ethnic groups (P < .05). However, the observed disparities were less likely related to reported comorbidities, with Latinx and African American patients being admitted at twice the rate of Whites, regardless of such comorbidities.

Conclusions

Latinx and African American patients with COVID-19 have higher rates of hospitalization and ICU admission than White patients. The etiologies of such disparities are likely multifactorial and cannot be explained only by reported comorbidities.