bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and survey in cattle of a rumen Pyrimadobacter sp. which degrades the plant toxin fluoroacetate
Authors: Kang Seungha , Khan Shahjalal , Webb Rick , Denman Stuart , McSweeney Chris
Published: April 2020

Among the natural halogenic compounds, the plant toxin fluoroacetate (FA) causes livestock fatalities in southern hemisphere countries. Here, we report on the isolation of a rumen bacterium, strain C12–8 that degrades FA under anaerobic conditions. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed this bacterium belonged to the Pyramidobacter genus within the Synergistetes phylum and was 98% similar to Pyramidobacter piscolens W5455 isolated from the human oral cavity. Transmission electron microscopy showed the cell envelope to be unusual, with only one membrane and no obvious external wall. Growth and FA degradation were enhanced by peptide-rich protein hydrolysates but not carbohydrates. End products of metabolism were mainly acetate, propionate/isovalerate and isobutyrate. Strain C12-8 preferentially used peptide-bound amino acids rather than free amino acids. Glycine, serine, threonine, leucine, histidine and isoleucine were utilized as free and peptide-bound amino acids, but there was minimal utilization of alanine, proline, methionine, aspartic acid, lysine and arginine in either form. A survey of several cattle properties in northern Australia showed that strain C12-8 and other FA degrading bacteria affiliated with Cloacibacillus porcorum strain MFA1 were endemic to cattle in the northern beef herd and may help to reduce toxicity.
The marine intertidal zone shapes oyster and clam digestive bacterial microbiota
Authors: Offret Clément , Paulino Sauvann , Gauthier Olivier , Château Kevin , Bidault Adeline , Corporeau Charlotte , Miner Philippe , Petton Bruno , Pernet Fabrice , Fabioux Caroline , Paillard Christine , Blay Gwenaelle Le
Published: April 2020

Digestive microbiota provide a wide range of beneficial effects on host physiology and are therefore likely to play a key role in marine intertidal bivalve ability to acclimatize to the intertidal zone. This study investigated the effect of intertidal levels on the digestive bacterial microbiota of oysters (Crassostrea gigas) and clams (Ruditapes philippinarum), two bivalves with different ecological niches. Based on 16S rRNA region sequencing, digestive glands, seawater and sediments harbored specific bacterial communities, dominated by operational taxonomic units assigned to the Mycoplasmatales,Desulfobacterales and Rhodobacterales orders, respectively. Field implantation modified digestive bacterial microbiota of both bivalve species according to their intertidal position. Rhodospirillales and Legionellales abundances increased in oysters and clams from the low intertidal level, respectively. After a 14-day depuration process, these effects were still observed, especially for clams, while digestive bacterial microbiota of oysters were subjected to more short-term environmental changes. Nevertheless, 3.5 months stay on an intertidal zone was enough to leave an environmental footprint on the digestive bacterial microbiota, suggesting the existence of autochthonous bivalve bacteria. When comparing clams from the three intertidal levels, 20% of the bacterial assemblage was shared among the levels and it was dominated by an operational taxonomic unit affiliated to the Mycoplasmataceae and Spirochaetaceae families.
Effect of stevia on the gut microbiota and glucose tolerance in a murine model of diet-induced obesity
Authors: Becker Sarah L , Chiang Edna , Plantinga Anna , Carey Hannah V , Suen Garret , Swoap Steven J
Published: April 2020

Artificial sweeteners have been shown to induce glucose intolerance by altering the gut microbiota; however, little is known about the effect of stevia. Here, we investigate whether stevia supplementation induces glucose intolerance by altering the gut microbiota in mice, hypothesizing that stevia would correct high fat diet-induced glucose intolerance and alter the gut microbiota. Mice were split into four treatment groups: low fat, high fat, high fat + saccharin and high fat + stevia. After 10 weeks of treatment, mice consuming a high fat diet (60% kcal from fat) developed glucose intolerance and gained more weight than mice consuming a low fat diet. Stevia supplementation did not impact body weight or glucose intolerance. Differences in species richness and relative abundances of several phyla were observed in low fat groups compared to high fat, stevia and saccharin. We identified two operational taxonomic groups that contributed to differences in beta-diversity between the stevia and saccharin groups: Lactococcus and Akkermansia in females and Lactococcus in males. Our results demonstrate that stevia does not rescue high fat diet-induced changes in glucose tolerance or the microbiota, and that stevia results in similar alterations to the gut microbiota as saccharin when administered in concordance with a high fat diet.
Limitations of right ventricular annular parameters in the early postoperative period following pulmonary endarterectomy: an observational study
Authors: Rézaiguia-Delclaux Saida , Haddad François , Pilorge Catherine , Amsallem Myriam , Fadel Elie , Stéphan François
Published: April 2020

OBJECTIVES

Echocardiographic right ventricular (RV) annular parameters are probably not as reliable to evaluate the surgical success in the postoperative period after pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA), whereas RV end-diastolic/left ventricular end-diastolic area ratio (RVEDA/LVEDA ratio) could be more useful. This study examined the relationship between RV annular parameters or RVEDA/LVEDA ratio and ideal cardiac index (ICI), before and after PEA.

METHODS

Among 80 patients who underwent PEA, the relationships between RVEDA/LVEDA ratio (21 patients), or tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (32 patients), or systolic tricuspid annular velocity (55 patients) and ICI were modelled.

RESULTS

Forty-eight hours following PEA, mean pulmonary artery pressure decreased (26 ± 6 vs 46 ± 12 mmHg, P < 0.0001) and ICI improved (2.8 ± 0.8 vs 3.0 ± 0.9 l/min/m2, P = 0.02). In contrast to the moderate association between RV annular indices and ICI in the preoperative period, no significant relationship was found in the postoperative period (r = 0.54 and 0.17 for tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and r = 0.46 and 0.16 for systolic tricuspid annular velocity, respectively). The RVEDA/LVEDA ratio significantly decreased postoperatively (0.97 ± 0.21 vs 1.19 ± 0.43, P = 0.002) and was correlated with ICI both in preoperative and postoperative periods (r = 0.57 and 0.57, respectively). There was a significant correlation between changes in RVEDA/LVEDA ratio and changes in total pulmonary resistance

CONCLUSIONS

Improved ICI and RVEDA/LVEDA ratio reflected the surgical success of PEA and lowering of total pulmonary resistances. In contrast to the RV/left ventricular area ratio, annular RV indices associated poorly with postoperative ICI. Recognizing this limitation is important in minimizing the overdiagnosis of RV dysfunction after PEA.
Complex Microbiota in Laboratory Rodents: Management Considerations
Authors: Franklin Craig L , Ericsson Aaron C
Published: April 2020

Our bodies and those of our animal research subjects are colonized by bacterial communities that occupy virtually every organ system, including many previously considered sterile. These bacteria reside as complex communities that are collectively referred to as microbiota. Prior to the turn of the century, characterization of these communities was limited by a reliance on culture of organisms on a battery of selective media. It was recognized that the vast majority of microbes, especially those occupying unique niches of the body such as the anaerobic environment of the intestinal tract, were uncultivatable. However, with the onset and advancement of next-generation sequencing technology, we are now capable of characterizing these complex communities without the need to cultivate, and this has resulted in an explosion of information and new challenges in interpreting data generated about, and in the context of, these complex communities. We have long known that these microbial communities often exist in an intricate balance that, if disrupted (ie, dysbiosis), can lead to disease or increased susceptibility to disease. Because of many functional redundancies, the makeup of these colonies can vary dramatically within healthy individuals [1]. However, there is growing evidence that subtle differences can alter the phenotype of various animal models, which may translate to the varying susceptibility to disease seen in the human population. In this manuscript, we discuss how to include complex microbiota as a consideration in experimental design and model reproducibility and how to exploit the extensive variation that exists in contemporary rodent research colonies. Our focus will be the intestinal or gut microbiota (GM), but it should be recognized that microbial communities exist in many other body compartments and these too likely influence health and disease [2, 3]. Much like host genetics, can we one day harness the vast genetic capacity of the microbes we live with in ways that will benefit human and animal health?
Initial evaluation of nivolumab in patients with post-operative recurrence of malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Nakamura Akifumi , Kondo Nobuyuki , Nakamichi Toru , Kuroda Ayumi , Hashimoto Masaki , Matsumoto Seiji , Yokoi Takashi , Kuribayashi Kozo , Kijima Takashi , Hasegawa Seiki
Published: April 2020

Background

Limited options exist for treating post-recurrence patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of nivolumab in patients with post-operative recurrence of MPM in a real-world setting.

Methods

This study included 35 patients with post-operative recurrence of MPM. Treatment consisted of 240-mg intravenous nivolumab administration every 2 weeks until progressive disease (PD) or serious adverse events (AEs). Additional post-treatment data were evaluated, including objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), post-treatment survival and AEs. Tumor response was assessed using the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method. The feasibility analysis including AEs was performed with the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0.

Results

Of the 35 patients who received nivolumab, median follow-up was 6 months. The median treatment duration was 3 months (range: 1–14 months), and median of 8 cycles (range: 2–32 cycles) was administered. Best overall responses were follows: 1 patient had complete response, 6 had partial response, 18 had stable disease and 8 had PD. The ORR was 20.0%, and the DCR was 77.1%. The median overall survival and PFS were 13.1 and 4.4 months, respectively. There were grade-3 AEs in four patients (11.4%). No grade-4 or -5 AEs were observed.

Conclusion

Nivolumab treatment in patients with post-operative recurrence of MPM seems safe and clinical efficacy.
A unique case report of a high-pressure paint injection injury of the hand with associated carbapenemase resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection
Authors: Barger Kurt , Jenkins Ryne , Weng Bruce , Fan Juston , Tholcke Loren , French Michael
Published: April 2020

High pressure injection injuries to the hand should not be taken lightly as urgent surgical debridement is required to ensure favorable outcomes. Empiric antibiotic administration is recommended; however, few studies focus on the secondary infection risk associated with these high pressure injection injuries. We present a rare case of a patient presenting with carbapenem resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa following a high pressure paint gun injury of the thumb. Urgent surgical debridement with administration of broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage for both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria is recommended. The injection of foreign materials can cause extensive tissue damage and immunosuppression facilitating growth of opportunistic bacteria that are often rare in healthy adults. We advocate for obtaining cultures at initial debridement to optimize treatment in these unique and rare injection injuries. Concerns should be raised as carbapenem resistant bacteria become more prevalent in the community.
A syntactic dependency network approach to the study of translational language
Authors: Fan Lu , Jiang Yue
Published: April 2020

Complex network approach provides language research with quantitative measures that can capture global features of language. Although translational language has been recognized as a ‘third code’ by some researchers, its independence still calls for further and quantitative validation in an overall manner. In this study, we intend to examine this independence and explore comprehensively its features. We investigated macroscopically translational language from English into Chinese and from Chinese into English by comparing with its source language and native language through syntactic dependency networks. The results show that: (1) translational language presents small-world and scale-free properties like most languages do; (2) however, it is independent of and different from both source language and native language in terms of its network parameters; (3) its network parameters show values eclectic between source language and native language, and this eclectic tendency may be regarded as a new candidate for universal features of translational language, which certainly needs further validation in other genres and language pairs. This study also corroborates that quantitative linguistic method of complex network approach can be well utilized in the study of translational language.
Pegaptanib for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Penman Alan D. , Crowder Kimberly W. , Watkins William M.
Published: April 2020

The VEGF Inhibition Study in Ocular Neovascularization (V.I.S.I.O.N.) study comprised two concurrent randomized, double-masked, sham-controlled clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a second year of treatment with pegaptanib sodium (an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] agent) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In combined analyses, 88% of patients were re-randomized at week 54, and 89% were assessed at week 102. At week 54, those initially assigned to pegaptanib were re-randomized to continue or discontinue therapy for 48 more weeks (8 injections). Those initially assigned to sham were re-randomized to continue sham, discontinue sham, or receive 1 of 3 pegaptanib doses. The study showed that in patients with a diverse mix of neovascular AMD presentations, treatment with pegaptanib every 6 weeks for 2 years reduced the risk of vision loss regardless of lesion composition or size; this benefit was maintained during year 2.
My Journey with Calvin
Authors: Shake Christy
Published: April 2020

In this section, advocates use their skills in art, writing, and musical composition to positively impact the lives of many people with epilepsy.
Development of the ventricles and valves
Authors: Pérez-Pomares José M. , de la Pompa José L.
Published: April 2020

The heart is the first functional organ of the vertebrate embryo, beginning to beat at around 4 weeks of gestation in humans. Tissue interactions orchestrate the complex patterning, proliferation, and differentiation processes that transform the embryonic cardiac primordium into the adult heart. During heart embryogenesis, cardiac mesoderm progenitor cells originate bilaterally during gastrulation and move rostrally to form the primitive heart tube, which will then loop towards the right and initiate septation to give rise to the mature four-chambered heart. Experimental studies in animal models have revealed the crucial role that a number of highly conserved signalling pathways, involving active molecular cross-talk between adjacent tissues, play in cardiac development, and how the alterations in these signalling mechanisms may cause congenital heart disease affecting the neonate or adult. Here, we describe briefly the knowledge gained on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cardiac chamber and valve development and its implication in disease. This knowledge will ultimately facilitate the design of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to treat congenital heart disease.
Transposable elements employ distinct integration strategies with respect to transcriptional landscapes in eukaryotic genomes
Authors: Zhang Xinyan , Zhao Meixia , McCarty Donald R , Lisch Damon
Published: April 2020

Transposable elements (TEs) are ubiquitous DNA segments capable of moving from one site to another within host genomes. The extant distributions of TEs in eukaryotic genomes have been shaped by both bona fide TE integration preferences in eukaryotic genomes and by selection following integration. Here, we compare TE target site distribution in host genomes using multiple de novo transposon insertion datasets in both plants and animals and compare them in the context of genome-wide transcriptional landscapes. We showcase two distinct types of transcription-associated TE targeting strategies that suggest a process of convergent evolution among eukaryotic TE families. The integration of two precision-targeting elements are specifically associated with initiation of RNA Polymerase II transcription of highly expressed genes, suggesting the existence of novel mechanisms of precision TE targeting in addition to passive targeting of open chromatin. We also highlight two features that can facilitate TE survival and rapid proliferation: tissue-specific transposition and minimization of negative impacts on nearby gene function due to precision targeting.
ARTS 2.0: feature updates and expansion of the Antibiotic Resistant Target Seeker for comparative genome mining
Authors: Mungan Mehmet Direnç , Alanjary Mohammad , Blin Kai , Weber Tilmann , Medema Marnix H , Ziemert Nadine
Published: April 2020

Multi-drug resistant pathogens have become a major threat to human health and new antibiotics are urgently needed. Most antibiotics are derived from secondary metabolites produced by bacteria. In order to avoid suicide, these bacteria usually encode resistance genes, in some cases within the biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) of the respective antibiotic compound. Modern genome mining tools enable researchers to computationally detect and predict BGCs that encode the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. The major challenge now is the prioritization of the most promising BGCs encoding antibiotics with novel modes of action. A recently developed target-directed genome mining approach allows researchers to predict the mode of action of the encoded compound of an uncharacterized BGC based on the presence of resistant target genes. In 2017, we introduced the ‘Antibiotic Resistant Target Seeker’ (ARTS). ARTS allows for specific and efficient genome mining for antibiotics with interesting and novel targets by rapidly linking housekeeping and known resistance genes to BGC proximity, duplication and horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events. Here, we present ARTS 2.0 available at http://arts.ziemertlab.com. ARTS 2.0 now includes options for automated target directed genome mining in all bacterial taxa as well as metagenomic data. Furthermore, it enables comparison of similar BGCs from different genomes and their putative resistance genes.
Zinc supplementation combined with antidepressant drugs for treatment of patients with depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: da Silva Laís Eloy Machado , de Santana Mônica Leila Portela , Costa Priscila Ribas de Farias , Pereira Emile Miranda , Nepomuceno Carina Márcia Magalhães , Queiroz Valterlinda Alves de Oliveira , de Oliveira Lucivalda Pereira Magalhães , Machado Maria Ester Pereira da Conceição- , de Sena Eduardo Pondé
Published: April 2020

Context

Zinc is an essential trace mineral required for the function of brain and neural structures. The role of zinc supplementation in the prevention and treatment of depression has been suggested in clinical studies that reported a reduction in depressive symptoms.

Objective

The aim of this review was to determine whether zinc supplementation vs placebo can prevent or improve depressive symptoms in children, adolescents, or adults.

Data Sources

Five electronic databases were searched, and studies published until September 2019 were included without language restriction.

Study Selection

Randomized, controlled, crossover trials that evaluated the effect of zinc supplementation vs a comparator for prevention or improvement of depressive symptoms in children, adolescents, or adults were eligible for inclusion.

Data Extraction

Two authors independently performed data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment.

Results

The initial search identified 12 322 studies, 5 of which were eligible for meta-analysis. The standardized mean difference (SMD) showed an average reduction of 0.36 point (95%CI, −0.67 to −0.04) in the intervention group compared with the placebo group. Forstudies in which the mean age of participants was ≥ 40 years, the SMD was reduced by 0.61 point (95%CI, −1.12 to −0.09) in the intervention group vs the placebo group. The meta-analysis by sample size (< 60 individuals and  ≥ 60 individuals) did not show an effect of zinc supplementation in reducing depressive symptoms (SMD −0.28; 95%CI, −0.67 to −0.10; and SMD −0.52; 95%CI, −1.10 to 0.06).

Conclusion

Zinc supplementation may reduce depressive symptoms in individuals treated with antidepressant drugs for clinical depression.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42018081691.
Analysis of Mortality in Patients With COVID-19: Clinical and Laboratory Parameters
Authors: Tian Sufang , Liu Huan , Liao Meiyan , Wu Yingjie , Yang Chunxiu , Cai Yuxiang , Peng Zhiyong , Xiao Shu-Yuan
Published: April 2020

Background

Several reports on epidemiological and clinical features of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have been published. However, mortality and morbidity analyses, important for better understanding the pathogenesis of this disease, are scarce. We examine the clinical and laboratory features of 14 patients who died of COVID-19.

Methods

The cohort consisted of 11 male and 3 female patients, with 9 patients aged 70 years or above, and nearly all had underlying diseases.

Results

Fever with bilateral pneumonia was the main manifestation. Most patients had consolidations combined with ground glass opacity (GGO) on chest computed tomography scan. Laboratory tests showed lymphocytopenia in 10 patients, high blood glucose in 11, GGT in 5 of the 14 patients, and high LDH in 5 of 6 patients tested. In addition, this cohort had high level of cytokines such as interleukin-6 in all 8 patients tested.

Conclusions

The clinical and laboratory parameters in the cohort of fatal cases may be incorporated into future clinical prognosis models and will be of help in understanding the pathogenesis of this disease.
Top of the Class: The Importance of Ordinal Rank
Authors: Murphy Richard , Weinhardt Felix
Published: April 2020

This article establishes a new fact about educational production: ordinal academic rank during primary school has lasting impacts on secondary school achievement that are independent of underlying ability. Using data on the universe of English school students, we exploit naturally occurring differences in achievement distributions across primary school classes to estimate the impact of class rank. We find large effects on test scores, confidence, and subject choice during secondary school, even though these students have a new set of peers and teachers who are unaware of the students’ prior ranking in primary school. The effects are especially pronounced for boys, contributing to an observed gender gap in the number of Maths courses chosen at the end of secondary school. Using a basic model of student effort allocation across subjects, we distinguish between learning and non-cognitive skills mechanisms, finding support for the latter.
EVALUATION OF RADIATION PROTECTION PRINCIPLES OBSERVANCE IN DENTAL RADIOGRAPHY CENTERS (WEST OF IRAN): CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Rasoul Tohidnia Mohammad , Rasool Azmoonfar , Fatemeh Amiri , Rahimi Seyed Ali , Neda Amiri , Hosna Sharafi
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study is to assess the evaluation of radiation protection principles observance in dental radiography centers and hazards. This cross-sectional study was designed to assess level of radiation protection principles in dentistry centers. The present cross-sectional study was conducted by enrolling 103 dentistry centers in Kermanshah province (west of Iran). Our finding illustrates 75.7% of the centers were equipped with an intraoral radiography. Although observance principles of radiation protection for patient at dentistry center were at appropriate level (97.3%), the observance of the protective principles was not adequate for the skilled workers in any center. The most commonly used protective measure was the observance of a distance from patient (97.3%) and the minimum protective measures such as the use of high-speed film (1.4%). According to results in this study, the knowledge and practice of radiation protection are not satisfactory.
Do we understand yet the nature of a partnership interest? The High Court of Australia weighs in on the debate
Authors: Nitikman Joel
Published: April 2020

Since before the first Partnership Act in 1865, there has been a debate as to the nature of a partner's share in a partnership. Is it a proprietary interest in the partnership property, a chose in action representing the money to be received on a dissolution of the partnership, or both at the same time? There has also been a debate as to whether one partner holds title to partnership property in trust for the other partners and, if so, the nature of that trust. Joel Nitikman explores this topics in a comment on the decision of the High Court of Australia in Commissioner of Taxation v. Rojoda.
Genome Sequence Resource of Coniella vitis, a Fungal Pathogen Causing Grape White Rot Disease
Authors: Zhou Shanyue , Li Baohua
Published: April 2020

Several fungal pathogens cause grape white rot disease and Coniella vitis is a predominant pathogen in Chinese vineyards. The disease occurs on leaves, vines, and fruit berries, leading to considerable yield losses and even to total destruction of vineyards. Here, we present the first Pacbio and Illumina-sequenced draft genome assembly of C. vitis QNYT13637 and its annotation. This genome sequence provides a unique resource that will be a powerful foundation for future research on exploring virulence-related genes, investigating the pathogenicity mechanism of the pathogen, and, finally, improvement of white rot disease management strategies.
Electroencephalogram Burst-suppression during Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Elderly Patients Mediates Postoperative Delirium
Authors: Pedemonte Juan C. , Plummer George S. , Chamadia Shubham , Locascio Joseph J. , Hahm Eunice , Ethridge Breanna , Gitlin Jacob , Ibala Reine , Mekonnen Jennifer , Colon Katia M. , Westover M. Brandon , D’Alessandro David A. , Tolis George , Houle Timothy , Shelton Kenneth T. , Qu Jason , Akeju Oluwaseun
Published: April 2020

Background

Intraoperative burst-suppression is associated with postoperative delirium. Whether this association is causal remains unclear. Therefore, the authors investigated whether burst-suppression during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) mediates the effects of known delirium risk factors on postoperative delirium.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort observational substudy of the Minimizing ICU [intensive care unit] Neurological Dysfunction with Dexmedetomidine-induced Sleep (MINDDS) trial. The authors analyzed data from patients more than 60 yr old undergoing cardiac surgery (n = 159). Univariate and multivariable regression analyses were performed to assess for associations and enable causal inference. Delirium risk factors were evaluated using the abbreviated Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System questionnaires for applied cognition, physical function, global health, sleep, and pain. The authors also analyzed electroencephalogram data (n = 141).

Results

The incidence of delirium in patients with CPB burst-suppression was 25% (15 of 60) compared with 6% (5 of 81) in patients without CPB burst-suppression. In univariate analyses, age (odds ratio, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.03 to 1.14]; P = 0.002), lowest CPB temperature (odds ratio, 0.79 [0.66 to 0.94]; P = 0.010), alpha power (odds ratio, 0.65 [0.54 to 0.80]; P < 0.001), and physical function (odds ratio, 0.95 [0.91 to 0.98]; P = 0.007) were associated with CPB burst-suppression. In separate univariate analyses, age (odds ratio, 1.09 [1.02 to 1.16]; P = 0.009), abbreviated Montreal Cognitive Assessment (odds ratio, 0.80 [0.66 to 0.97]; P = 0.024), alpha power (odds ratio, 0.75 [0.59 to 0.96]; P = 0.025), and CPB burst-suppression (odds ratio, 3.79 [1.5 to 9.6]; P = 0.005) were associated with delirium. However, only physical function (odds ratio, 0.96 [0.91 to 0.99]; P = 0.044), lowest CPB temperature (odds ratio, 0.73 [0.58 to 0.88]; P = 0.003), and electroencephalogram alpha power (odds ratio, 0.61 [0.47 to 0.76]; P < 0.001) were retained as predictors in the burst-suppression multivariable model. Burst-suppression (odds ratio, 4.1 [1.5 to 13.7]; P = 0.012) and age (odds ratio, 1.07 [0.99 to 1.15]; P = 0.090) were retained as predictors in the delirium multivariable model. Delirium was associated with decreased electroencephalogram power from 6.8 to 24.4 Hertz.

Conclusions

The inference from the present study is that CPB burst-suppression mediates the effects of physical function, lowest CPB temperature, and electroencephalogram alpha power on delirium.

Editor’s Perspective

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New
The Population-based Impact of Adjuvant Chemotherapy on Outcomes in T2N0M0 Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Arora Rahul K. , Gibson Amanda W. , Bebb D. Gwyn , Cheung Winson Y.
Published: April 2020

Objectives:

The value of adjuvant chemotherapy in T2N0M0 non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unclear. Some current guidelines suggest adjuvant chemotherapy be considered for patients with tumors ≥4 cm. Prior population-based evaluations lacked lung cancer-specific survival (LCSS) and health insurance status. The authors aimed to identify predictors of adjuvant chemotherapy use and assess its real-world benefit in T2N0M0 NSCLC.

Materials and Methods:

The authors included patients who underwent surgery for T2N0M0 NSCLC in a large Canadian province with universal health care between 2004 and 2015, grouping cases by adjuvant chemotherapy receipt. They identified predictors of chemotherapy use with logistic regression and correlates of overall survival (OS) and LCSS using Cox regression.

Results:

The authors analyzed 967 patients. The median age was 68 years (interquartile range, 61 to 74), 455 (47%) were men, and 164 (17%) received adjuvant chemotherapy. Sex, tumor location, and laterality were similar between groups. Younger age, lower Charlson comorbidity score, large cell histology, and tumor size ≥4 cm were associated with a higher likelihood of chemotherapy receipt (all P<0.05). In the entire cohort and in the ≥4 and ≥5 cm subgroups, chemotherapy improved OS but not LCSS on univariate analysis. Chemotherapy was not associated with OS or LCSS in multivariate analysis (OS hazard ratio [HR], 0.925; 95% confidence interval [0.693-1.236], P=0.598, 0.725 [0.454-1.157], P=0.177 in the ≥4 cm group; LCSS HR, 1.196 [0.843-1.695], P=0.316, 0.917 [0.533-1.577], P=0.754 in the ≥4 cm group).

Conclusion:

Adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with improved survival in this population-based T2N0M0 NSCLC cohort, even for ≥4 or ≥5 cm tumors, suggesting that it has a limited role in real-world practice.
Three-dimensional Coordinate System for Hemifacial Microsomia
Authors: Ariizumi Dai , Sakamoto Teruo , Ishii Takenobu , Sueishi Kenji , Nishii Yasushi , Sakamoto Yoshiaki , Ogata Hisao
Published: April 2020

Background:

Hemifacial microsomia (HFM) is a congenital disorder characterized by facial asymmetry, but no midline reference has been established for evaluating facial morphology in patients with HFM. The purpose of this study was to develop a 3-dimensional coordinate system unaffected by the deformity of the external acoustic aperture or orbital circumference and to quantitatively evaluate craniofacial morphology in such patients.

Methods:

We quantitatively evaluated craniofacial morphology using 3-dimensional measurements with the skull base as a reference. Using computed tomography data from 15 patients with HFM and 15 controls, a coordinate system was created for each patient, and left–right differences between measurement points were compared.

Results:

When mandibular deformity was severe, the deformity of the posterior part of the palatine bone and lateral part of the orbit increased, but this trend was not evident for other measurement points. Thus, craniofacial deformity in HFM was not always related to mandibular deformity. Moreover, no difference was evident in the position of the hypoglossal canal between controls and patients with HFM.

Conclusions:

Quantitative assessments are possible using the coordinate system devised in this study, irrespective of the severity of HFM. The degree of mandibular deformity detailed in the Pruzansky classification was associated with the superoinferior deformity of the posterior part of the palatine bone and anteroposterior deformity of the lateral part of the orbit.
Use of Probiotics for the Management of Acute Gastroenteritis in Children
Authors: Szajewska Hania , Guarino Alfredo , Hojsak Iva , Indrio Flavia , Kolacek Sanja , Orel Rok , Salvatore Silvia , Shamir Raanan , van Goudoever Johannes B. , Vandenplas Yvan , Weizman Zvi , Zalewski Bartłomiej M. ,   Working Group on Probiotics and Prebiotics of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Published: April 2020

Since the publication of the 2014 European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Working Group (WG) on Probiotics and Prebiotics guidelines for the management of acute gastroenteritis (AGE), new evidence concerning the efficacy of probiotics has become available. This document provides updated recommendations on the use of probiotics for the treatment of AGE in previously presumed healthy infants and children. A systematic literature search was performed. All pooled analyses were explicitly performed for the current report. The WG graded the recommendations and assessed the certainty of the supporting evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment Development, and Evaluations tool. The recommendations were formulated if at least 2 randomized controlled trials that used a given probiotic were available. Despite the large number of identified trials, the WG could not identify 2 randomized controlled trial of high quality for any strain that provided benefit when used for treating AGE. The WG made weak recommendations for (in descending order in terms of the number of trials evaluating any given strain): Saccharomyces boulardii (low to very low certainty of evidence); Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (very low certainty of evidence); L reuteri DSM 17938 (low to very low certainty of evidence); and L rhamnosus 19070‐2 and L reuteri DSM 12246 (very low certainty of evidence). The WG made a strong recommendation against L helveticus R0052 and L rhamnosus R0011 (moderate certainty of evidence) and a weak recommendation against Bacillus clausii strains O/C, SIN, N/R, and T (very low certainty of evidence).
Are We Missing the Opportunity to Measure Muscle Mass on Computed Tomography Thorax?
Authors: Bryl Benjamin , Merrix Stephan , Proud David , Marin Aleksander , Byrne Anthony , Duckers Jamie
Published: April 2020

Hand grip strength (HGS) and fat free mass index (FFMI) are important indicators of skeletal muscle mass and correlate with prognosis in patients with respiratory diseases. It is also possible to estimate muscle mass by measuring muscle density and volume on cross sectional imaging. We reviewed all patients of the All Wales Cystic Fibrosis Centre who had a computed tomography thorax as part of routine clinical care between 2013 and 2017. By multiplying the volume and average Hounsfield units of the paraspinal muscles at T4 and T12 levels we were able to estimate the patients skeletal muscle mass. This was compared with their FFMI, HGS and forced expiratory volume in 1 second. Measurements of muscle mass at T4 and T12 showed significant correlation with HGS and FFMI, and T12 also showed significant correlation with forced expiratory volume in 1 second. This method may provide further prognostic information for patient with cystic fibrosis, particularly where equipment for HGS and FFMI assessments are lacking.
Fully Automated Segmentation and Shape Analysis of the Thoracic Aorta in Non–contrast-enhanced Magnetic Resonance Images of the German National Cohort Study
Authors: Hepp Tobias , Fischer Marc , Winkelmann Moritz T. , Baldenhofer Sonja , Kuestner Thomas , Nikolaou Konstantin , Yang Bin , Gatidis Sergios
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a deep learning-based framework for automated segmentation and vessel shape analysis on non–contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) data of the thoracic aorta within the German National Cohort (GNC) MR study.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred data sets acquired in the GNC MR study were included (56 men, average age 53 y [22 to 72 y]). All participants had undergone non–contrast-enhanced MR imaging of the thoracic vessels. Automated vessel segmentation of the thoracic aorta was performed using a Convolutional Neural Network in a supervised setting with manually annotated data sets as the ground truth. Seventy data sets were used for training; 30 data sets were used for quantitative and qualitative evaluation. Automated shape analysis based on centerline extraction from segmentation masks was performed to derive a diameter profile of the vessel. For comparison, 2 radiologists measured vessel diameters manually.

Results:

Overall, automated aortic segmentation was successful, providing good qualitative analyses with only minor irregularities in 29 of 30 data sets. One data set with severe MR artifacts led to inadequate automated segmentation results. The mean Dice score of automated vessel segmentation was 0.85. Automated aortic diameter measurements were similar to manual measurements (average difference −0.9 mm, limits of agreement: −5.4 to 3.9 mm), with minor deviations in the order of the interreader agreement between the 2 radiologists (average difference −0.5 mm, limits of agreement: −5.8 to 4.8 mm).

Conclusion:

Automated segmentation and shape analysis of the thoracic aorta is feasible with high accuracy on non–contrast-enhanced MR imaging using the proposed deep learning approach.
Advanced neuroimaging in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mackay Meggan , Tang Chris C. , Vo An
Published: April 2020

Purpose of review

Neuropsychiatric lupus (NPSLE) comprises a disparate collection of syndromes affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems. Progress in the attribution of neuropsychiatric syndromes to SLE-related mechanisms and development of targeted treatment strategies has been impeded by a lack of objective imaging biomarkers that reflect specific neuropsychiatric syndromes and/or pathologic mechanisms. The present review addresses recent publications of neuroimaging techniques in NPSLE.

Recent findings

Imaging studies grouping all NPSLE syndromes together are unable to differentiate between NPSLE and non-NPSLE. In contrast, diffusion tensor imaging, FDG-PET, resting, and functional MRI techniques in patients with stable non-NPSLE demonstrate abnormal network structural and functional connectivity and regional brain activity in multiple cortical areas involving the limbic system, hippocampus, frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes. Some of these changes associate with impaired cognitive performance or mood disturbance, autoantibodies or inflammatory proteins. Longitudinal data suggest progression over time. DCE-MRI demonstrates increased Blood–brain barrier permeability.

Study design issues related to patient selection (non-NPSLE vs. NPSLE syndromes, SLE disease activity, medications) are critical for biomarker development. Regional and network structural and functional changes identified with advanced brain imaging techniques in patients with non-NPSLE may be further developed as biomarkers for cognitive and mood disorders attributable to SLE-related mechanisms.
Developmental programming of mitochondrial biology: a conceptual framework and review
Authors: Gyllenhammer Lauren E. , Entringer Sonja , Buss Claudia , Wadhwa Pathik D.
Published: April 2020

Research on mechanisms underlying the phenomenon of developmental programming of health and disease has focused primarily on processes that are specific to cell types, organs and phenotypes of interest. However, the observation that exposure to suboptimal or adverse developmental conditions
concomitantly
influences a broad range of phenotypes suggests that these exposures may additionally exert effects through cellular mechanisms that are common, or shared, across these different cell and tissue types. It is in this context that we focus on cellular bioenergetics and propose that mitochondria, bioenergetic and signalling organelles, may represent a key cellular target underlying developmental programming. In this review, we discuss empirical findings in animals and humans that suggest that key structural and functional features of mitochondrial biology exhibit developmental plasticity, and are influenced by the same physiological pathways that are implicated in susceptibility for complex, common age-related disorders, and that these targets of mitochondrial developmental programming exhibit long-term temporal stability. We conclude by articulating current knowledge gaps and propose future research directions to bridge these gaps.
Personality traits change after an opportunity to mate
Authors: Monestier Chloé , Bell Alison M.
Published: April 2020

There is growing evidence that personality traits can change throughout the life course in humans and nonhuman animals. However, the proximate and ultimate causes of personality trait change are largely unknown, especially in adults. In a controlled, longitudinal experiment, we tested whether a key life event for adults––mating––can cause personality traits to change in female threespine sticklebacks. We confirmed that there are consistent individual differences in activity, sociability and risk-taking, and then compared these personality traits among three groups of females: (i) control females; (ii) females that had physically mated, and (iii) females that had socially experienced courtship but did not mate. Both the physical experience of mating and the social experience of courtship caused females to become less willing to take risks and less social. To understand the proximate mechanisms underlying these changes, we measured levels of excreted steroids. Both the physical experience of mating and the social experience of courtship caused levels of dihydroxyprogesterone (17α,20β-P) to increase, and females with higher 17α,20β-P were less willing to take risks and less social. These results provide experimental evidence that personality traits and their underlying neuroendocrine correlates are influenced by formative social and life-history experiences well into adulthood.
Hippopotamus are distinct from domestic livestock in their resource subsidies to and effects on aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Masese Frank O. , Kiplagat Mary J. , González-Quijano Clara Romero , Subalusky Amanda L. , Dutton Christopher L. , Post David M. , Singer Gabriel A.
Published: April 2020

In many regions of the world, populations of large wildlife have been displaced by livestock, and this may change the functioning of aquatic ecosystems owing to significant differences in the quantity and quality of their dung. We developed a model for estimating loading rates of organic matter (dung) by cattle for comparison with estimated rates for hippopotamus in the Mara River, Kenya. We then conducted a replicated mesocosm experiment to measure ecosystem effects of nutrient and carbon inputs associated with dung from livestock (cattle) versus large wildlife (hippopotamus). Our loading model shows that per capita dung input by cattle is lower than for hippos, but total dung inputs by cattle constitute a significant portion of loading from large herbivores owing to the large numbers of cattle on the landscape. Cattle dung transfers higher amounts of limiting nutrients, major ions and dissolved organic carbon to aquatic ecosystems relative to hippo dung, and gross primary production and microbial biomass were higher in cattle dung treatments than in hippo dung treatments. Our results demonstrate that different forms of animal dung may influence aquatic ecosystems in fundamentally different ways when introduced into aquatic ecosystems as a terrestrially derived resource subsidy.
Analysis of national and international guidelines on respiratory protection equipment for COVID-19 in healthcare settings
Authors: Birgand Gabriel , Mutters Nico T. , Otter Jonathan , Eichel Vanessa M. , Lepelletier Didier , Morgan Daniel J. , Lucet Jean-Christophe
Published: April 2020

Background

Consistent guidelines on respiratory protection for healthcare professionals combined with improved global supply chains are critical to prevent COVID-19. We analysed the guidelines published by national and international societies/organizations on facemasks and respirators to prevent COVID-19 in healthcare settings.

Methods

From the 1st January to the 2nd April 2020, guidelines published in four countries (France, Germany, United States, United Kingdom), and two international organizations (US and European Centre for Diseases Control, and World Health Organization) were reviewed to analyse the mask and respirators recommended for healthcare settings during the COVID-19 outbreak. The aerosol generating procedures (AGP) definitions and the strategy recommended for optimizing supplies and overcoming shortages were collected.

Findings

The recommendation of respirator was universally recommended for AGP across countries, although the type of respirators and what constituted an AGP was variable. Some guidance maintained the use of N95/99 for all contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases (i.e. Germany) whereas others, recommended a surgical mask (i.e. WHO, UK, France). Most guidelines were published in March with either downgraded (US and European CDC), relatively stable (WHO, Germany, and UK), or a mixing of high and low level equipment (France). The strategies to overcome shortage of respiratory protection equipment were based on minimizing the need and rationalizing the use, but also prolonging their use, reusing them after cleaning/sterilization, or using cloth masks.

Interpretations

In a crisis context, stable and consistent guidelines clearly detailing the respiratory protection type, and their indications, may prevent the confusion and anxiety among frontline staff, and avoid shortage.