bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The AMPK-PP2A axis in insect fat body is activated by 20-hydroxyecdysone to antagonize insulin/IGF signaling and restrict growth rate
Authors: Yuan Dongwei , Zhou Shun , Liu Suning , Li Kang , Zhao Haigang , Long Shihui , Liu Hanhan , Xie Yongfang , Su Yunlin , Yu Fengwei , Li Sheng
Published: April 2020

Significance

Final body size determination in animals remains a long-standing puzzle in the field of developmental biology. In insects, insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) and the steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) are mainly responsible for the growth rate and growth period, respectively, and consequently the final body size. Here, we report that 20E activates AMPK by up-regulating its gene expression and inducing sugar starvation. In turn, AMPK activates protein phosphatase 2A, which further dephosphorylates and inactivates key components in IIS in the fat body, and eventually suppresses the larval growth rate. These data answer the question of how 20E antagonizes IIS and modulates growth rate.
From philosophical logic to linguistics
Authors: Abraham Werner
Published: April 2020

How are the logical terms of thetic and categorical judgments to be distinguished linguistically?
The key questions are how judgments can be thought of in terms of linguistics and what the deeper lying reason is for
distinguishing the two notions. In our search for an answer, we can be guided by the distinction in Japanese, i.e.
through the use of the particle ga for thetics and wa for categoricals. In German,
the German equivalents are marked by accent mark and information structural word order. Syntactically, thetics are
represented by VP incorporation of all arguments including the subject. The arguments are not subject to syntactic
probing mechanisms but follow semantic preference principles. The following sectionss lead the reader through the
paper. (1) What is thetic, what is categorical? What is this difference for? (2) Main working hypothesis: From thetic
judgment to thetic sentence. (3) Hypothetic definition 1: the thetic sentence in German. (4) Hypothetic definition 2:
Thetic – Categorical. (5) Thetics are presentational, not locative and not existential. (6) Accent and information
structure. (7) Common ground contents (speech act felicity conditions). (8) Integrational focus: broad and narrow
focus (Jacobs 2001). (9) VP-integrated subject ≠ Unaccusative subject. (10)
Speaker deixis implied by subject inversion. (11) Special ga-subjects after Onoe 1973: The deeper key to thetics? (12) Linking thetic syntax with Onoe’s special
ga-verb class in Japanese? (13) The origo decision for episodicity and genericity. (14) Typological
commonalities. (15) Hypothesis: Passives are near-thetic. (16) Conclusion without a real end: the interface mix. (17)
Outgoing: leading ideas and main concepts.
Perception description, report and thetic statements
Authors: Okamoto Junji
Published: April 2020

This paper aims to explain the relationship between thetic statements and two groups of particles,
i.e. Japanese sentence-final particles (sfps) and German modal particles (mps). Thetic statements
are generally associated with predicates of temporary states, verbs of existence or verbs of appearance. By examining
the properties of predicates in thetic statements, I argue that perception description is a key characteristic for
theticity. I propose a common representational framework (Pragmatic Function Representation; PFR) and a distributional
map (Spectrum for Persons Involved and Reference Points; SfPI&RP) to capture commonalities and differences of
sfps and mps. What is common in the use of sfps and mps is that they both can
contribute to form a speech act directed to addressees (report), so that the sentences thus formed are non-thetic.
Most sfps contribute to convert private expressions into public ones, which is not the case in German
mps.
The sustainable intensification of farming systems. A review of cross-disciplinary research methods.
Authors: Grewer Uwe , Rodriguez D.
Published: April 2020

The sustainable intensification of agriculture is a widely utilized research and policy concept that has been subject to an extensive body of scientific literature. A key aspect of the concept is its multi-dimensional and cross-disciplinary nature, and the need for cross-disciplinary research methodologies that integrate biophysical and socio-economic approaches to inform the suitability of alternative technologies, across diverse agro-ecological, socio-economic and institutional conditions. The multi-dimensional and cross-disciplinary nature of sustainable intensification has been well accounted for by the available literature on conceptual definitions and frameworks of sustainable intensification. Less progress has been made on developing similar multidimensional and cross-disciplinary research methodologies that either causally explain determinants and impacts or simulate future developments of sustainable intensification processes. This review provides an overview of recent methodological developments and discusses future research directions in support of sustainable intensification. Emphasis is made on how to bridge the disciplinary gap between bio-physical and socio-economic research approaches, as well as how to utilize the growing availability of bio-physical and socio-economic data.
Crop-livestock integrated systems for more sustainable agricultural production: a review.
Authors: Hendrickson John R.
Published: April 2020

Integrated crop-livestock systems have been proposed as a method to sustainably intensify agricultural systems. However, it is important to understand what is known about these systems and where potential gaps are in our current knowledge. I reviewed over 116 different research and review articles focused on integrated crop-livestock systems and based on their focus, divided them into one of the three different aspects of sustainability: environmental, economic, or social. Most of the 116 articles focused on environmental (77) or economic (72) aspects of integrated crop-livestock systems, with 42 articles having both environmental and economic aspects. Of the 32 articles focused on social issues, there were 17 articles that included both environmental and social aspects and 13 articles that evaluated both economic and social aspects of integrated crop-livestock systems. Only nine articles evaluated all three aspects of sustainability in crop-livestock systems. Most social articles focused on potential adoption strategies, but there was little information about the impact that integrated crop-livestock systems have on the social fabric of communities. Other areas of limited research included how the spatial arrangement of different components of integrated crop-livestock systems may affect system synergies and the inclusion of multiple livestock species, including monogastrics, into these systems.
Dystocia: factors affecting parturition in domestic animals.
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Martínez-Burnes Julio , Napolitano Fabio , Domínguez-Muñoz Miguel , Guerrero-Legarreta Isabel , Mora-Medina Patricia , Ramírez-Necoechea Ramiro , Lezama-García Karina , González-Lozano Miguel
Published: April 2020

Dystocia frequently develops when some physical obstacle or functional defect impedes the birth process. Due to the complex nature of the factors involved in the process of parturition, it may be difficult to distinguish between eutocia (normal delivery) and dystocia (difficult birth). It is essential to do so because the physiopathological effects of problematic labour often deteriorate the dam's fertility and, in severe cases, may cause her death as a result of damage to the genital apparatus and the secondary development of systemic infections. Also, if parturition is not successful, neonates could suffer prolonged episodes of hypoxia, which represents a leading cause of foetal death in cases of dystocia and, even when not fatal, can be a determining factor in neonatal survival. Given this, a better knowledge of the aetiology and physiopathology of dystocia will be keys to understanding this condition and adequate decision making in obstetrical practice and veterinary perinatology. Moreover, such knowledge will permit the timely identification of cases that require special attention and establishing actions to protect animal welfare and assess risks that, on occasion, will entail pharmacological control of eutocia or dystocia. Hence, this paper aims to review some of the most critical aspects involved in the process of difficult deliveries and their consequences for the dam and the foetuses of domestic animals.
Mimosa diplotricha
: a review and synthesis of its problem and control options
Authors: Uyi Osariyekemwen
Published: April 2020

Mimosa diplotricha
C. Wright ex Sauvalle (
=Mimosa invisa
Mart.) (Mimosaceae) is a perennial weedy shrub of neotropical origin and a serious biotic threat in its invasive range. Despite its invasiveness and associated problems, there are surprisingly few reviews on this weed. This paper, therefore, reviews the existing but scattered literature on the invasion history and negative impacts of
M. diplotricha
in different ecological systems in its introduced ranges. Following the introduction of
M. diplotricha
into Indonesia and Australia in the early nineteenth century, the weed has since rapidly spread into many other countries in Asia, Africa and Oceania. It is known to be present and/or invasive in more than 14 Asian (e.g. India, Thailand, the Philippines) and 17 African countries (e.g. Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya) and more than 16 countries in Oceania including Australia and Papua New Guinea, with some serious negative effects on agriculture, biodiversity conservation and livelihoods. Landowners, locals and peasants in invaded areas employ physical/mechanical, cultural and chemical control methods to manage
M. diplotricha
, but these methods are unsustainable, costly and largely ineffective. The first biological control of
M. diplotricha
worldwide began in Australia in the 1980s with the release and establishment of
Heteropsylla spinulosa
, a sap-sucking bug that significantly reduced densities of the weed. This bug was subsequently introduced to many Islands in Oceania where it established and reduced the densities of the weed. This paper discusses the problems of
M. diplotricha
in different ecosystems in invaded areas, control options and gives recommendations for the sustainable management of the weed in Asia and Africa.
Radiation history of Asian Asarum (sect. Heterotropa, Aristolochiaceae) resolved using a phylogenomic approach based on double-digested RAD-seq data
Authors: Okuyama Yudai , Goto Nana , Nagano Atsushi J , Yasugi Masaki , Kokubugata Goro , Kudoh Hiroshi , Qi Zhechen , Ito Takuro , Kakishima Satoshi , Sugawara Takashi
Published: April 2020

Background and Aims

The genus Asarum sect. Heterotropa (Aristolochiaceae) probably experienced rapid diversification into 62 species centred on the Japanese Archipelago and Taiwan, providing an ideal model for studying island adaptive radiation. However, resolving the phylogeny of this plant group using Sanger sequencing-based approaches has been challenging. To uncover the radiation history of Heterotropa, we employed a phylogenomic approach using double-digested RAD-seq (ddRAD-seq) to yield a sufficient number of phylogenetic signals and compared its utility with that of the Sanger sequencing-based approach.

Methods

We first compared the performance of phylogenetic analysis based on the plastid matK and trnL–F regions and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS), and phylogenomic analysis based on ddRAD-seq using a reduced set of the plant materials (83 plant accessions consisting of 50 species, one subspecies and six varieties). We also conducted more thorough phylogenomic analyses including the reconstruction of biogeographic history using comprehensive samples of 135 plant accessions consisting of 54 species, one subspecies, nine varieties of Heterotropa and six outgroup species.

Key Results

Phylogenomic analyses of Heterotropa based on ddRAD-seq were superior to Sanger sequencing-based approaches and resulted in a fully resolved phylogenetic tree with strong support for 72.0–84.8 % (depending on the tree reconstruction methods) of the branches. We clarified the history of Heterotropa radiation and found that A. forbesii, the only deciduous Heterotropa species native to mainland China, is sister to the evergreen species (core Heterotropa) mostly distributed across the Japanese Archipelago and Taiwan.

Conclusions

The core Heterotropa group was divided into nine subclades, each of which had a narrow geographic distribution. Moreover, most estimated dispersal events (22 out of 24) were between adjacent areas, indicating that the range expansion has been geographically restricted throughout the radiation history. The findings enhance our understanding of the remarkable diversification of plant lineages in the Japanese Archipelago and Taiwan.
Gene Function Rather than Reproductive Mode Drives the Evolution of RNA Helicases in Sexual and Apomictic Boechera
Authors: Kiefer Markus , Nauerth Berit H , Volkert Christopher , Ibberson David , Loreth Anna , Schmidt Anja
Published: April 2020

In higher plants, sexual and asexual reproductions through seeds (apomixis) have evolved as alternative strategies. Evolutionary advantages leading to coexistence of both reproductive modes are currently not well understood. It is expected that accumulation of deleterious mutations leads to a rapid elimination of apomictic lineages from populations. In this line, apomixis originated repeatedly, likely from deregulation of the sexual pathway, leading to alterations in the development of reproductive lineages (germlines) in apomicts as compared with sexual plants. This potentially involves mutations in genes controlling reproduction.

Increasing evidence suggests that RNA helicases are crucial regulators of germline development. To gain insights into the evolution of 58 members of this diverse gene family in sexual and apomictic plants, we applied target enrichment combined with next-generation sequencing to identify allelic variants from 24 accessions of the genus Boechera, comprising sexual, facultative, and obligate apomicts. Interestingly, allelic variants from apomicts did not show consistently increased mutation frequency. Either sequences were highly conserved in any accession, or allelic variants preferentially harbored mutations in evolutionary less conserved C- and N-terminal domains, or presented high mutation load independent of the reproductive mode. Only for a few genes allelic variants harboring deleterious mutations were only identified in apomicts. To test if high sequence conservation correlates with roles in fundamental cellular or developmental processes, we analyzed Arabidopsis thaliana mutant lines in VASA-LIKE (VASL), and identified pleiotropic defects during ovule and reproductive development. This indicates that also in apomicts mechanisms of selection are in place based on gene function.
Effects of copper and zinc sources and inclusion levels of copper on weanling pig performance and intestinal microbiota
Authors: Villagómez-Estrada Sandra , Pérez José F , Darwich Laila , Vidal Anna , van Kuijk Sandra , Melo-Durán Diego , Solà-Oriol David
Published: April 2020

A 42-d experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Cu and Zn source and Cu level on pig performance, mineral status, bacterial modulation, and the presence of antimicrobial-resistant genes in isolates of Enterococcus spp. At weaning, 528 pigs (5.9 ± 0.50 kg) were allotted to 48 pens of a randomized complete block design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two Cu and Zn sources (SF: sulfate and HCl: hydroxychloride) and two Cu levels (15 and 160 mg/kg). As a challenge, the pigs were reared in dirty pens used by a previous commercial batch. Two-phase diets were offered: the pre-starter (PS) phase from day 1 to 14 and the starter phase (ST) from day 14 to 42. At days 14 and 42, pigs were individually weighed and blood samples from one pig per pen were taken. At the end of the experiment, one pig per pen was euthanized to collect the samples. Feeding high levels of Cu increased body weight (BW) from 16.6 to 17.7 kg (P < 0.001). Furthermore, average daily gain, gain to feed (G:F) ratio, average daily feed intake (ADFI), and mineral status were enhanced with Cu at 160 mg/kg (P < 0.05) compared with Cu at 15 mg/kg. There was no effect of the interaction between source × level on any of the growth performance responses except for ADFI (P = 0.004) and G:F (P = 0.029) at the end of the ST period and for G:F (P = 0.006) for entire nursery period (day 0 to 42). At the end of the ST period, pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg as HCl had not only higher ADFI but also lower G:F than those fed Cu as SF at 160 mg/kg. Meanwhile, for the entire nursery period, G:F did not differ between pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg as HCl or SF. In colonic digesta, the relative abundance of Streptococcus, Enterobacter, Escherichia, among others, decreased (P-adjust < 0.05), while Lachnospira and Roseburia tended (P-adjust < 0.10) to increase in pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg as HCl compared with those fed Cu SF at 160 mg/kg. An increase (P-adjust < 0.05) in Methanosphaera and Roseburia was observed in pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg. From colon digesta, Enterococcus spp. was isolated in 40 samples, being E. faecalis the most dominating (65%) regardless of the experimental diet. Genes of ermB (7.5%) and tetM (5%) were identified. No genes for Cu (tcrB) or vancomycin (vanA, vanB, vanC1, and vanC2) were detected. In conclusion, European Union permissible levels of Cu (160 mg/kg), of both sources, were able to increase performance, mineral status, and bacterial modulation compared with nutritional level. Different effects on growth performance, mineral tissue content, and microbial modulation were observed between Cu and Zn sources.
A new species and three subspecies of the desert shrew (Notiosorex) from the Baja California peninsula and California
Authors: Camargo Issac , Álvarez-Castañeda Sergio Ticul
Published: April 2020

Desert shrews of the genus Notiosorex comprise four species with morphological characteristics that are difficult to distinguish among the species. Indeed, N. cockrumi was described using only genetic markers. Based on molecular divergence documented in N. crawfordi, we hypothesize that a fifth species is present in the Baja California peninsula. Genetic variation at the species level was analyzed using individuals from locations west of the Colorado River in the Baja California peninsula, Mexico, and California, United States. Molecular markers of mitochondrial origin (cytochrome b, 1,140 bp; cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 542 bp; and cytochrome c oxidase subunit III, 672 bp), as well as the nuclear intron 7 of the beta fibrinogen gene (385 bp) were used to construct a phylogeny for species of the genus Notiosorex. Genetic distances of 12.46–15.58% between west and east of the Colorado River were obtained using p-distance models. Our phylogenetic analyses showed almost identical topologies, placing populations from west of the Colorado River in three monophyletic clades with high bootstrap support values. Results of molecular phylogenetic identity among shrews of the genus Notiosorex support the existence of an undescribed, polytypic species of Notiosorex west of the Colorado River.
SARS-CoV-2 and Legionella co-infection in a person returning from a Nile cruise
Authors: Arashiro Takeshi , Nakamura Satoshi , Asami Takahiro , Mikuni Hatsuko , Fujiwara Emiyu , Sakamoto So , Miura Ryotaro , Shionoya Yosuke , Honda Ryoichi , Furukawa Keiichi , Nakamura Akira , Saito Haruhisa
Published: April 2020

We report a case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and Legionella co-infection manifesting as pneumonia with gastrointestinal symptoms. The case highlights the importance of differential diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic, so we do not miss the opportunity to diagnose other treatable causes of disease with similar symptoms.
On the peculiar torque reversals and the X-ray luminosity history of the accretion-powered X-ray pulsar 4U 1626–67
Authors: Benli O
Published: April 2020

The X-ray luminosity (Lx) and the rotational properties of 4U 1626–67 have been measured at regular intervals during the last four decades. It has been recorded that the source underwent torque reversals twice. We have tried to understand whether these eccentrical sign-switches of the spin period derivative ($\dot{P}$) of 4U 1626–67 could be accounted for with the existing torque models. We have found that the observed source properties are better estimated with the distances close to the lower limit of the previously predicted distance range (5−13 kpc). Furthermore, assuming an inclined rotator, we have considered the partial accretion/ejection from the inner disc radius that leads to different Lx–$\dot{P}$ profiles than the aligned rotator cases. We have concluded that the oblique rotator assumption with the inclination angle χ ∼ (10°−30°) brings at least equally best fitting to the observed Lx and $\dot{P}$ of 4U 1626–67. More importantly, the estimated change of the mass accretion rate, which causes the change in observed Lx of 4U 1626–67 is much less than that is found in an aligned rotator case. In other words, without the need for a substantial modification of mass accretion rate from the companion star, the range of the observed Lx could be explained naturally with an inclined magnetic axis and rotation axis of the neutron star.
The HIV Outpatient Study—25 Years of HIV Patient Care and Epidemiologic Research
Authors: Buchacz Kate , Armon Carl , Palella Frank J , Novak Richard M , Fuhrer Jack , Tedaldi Ellen , Ward Douglas , Mayer Cynthia , Battalora Linda , Carlson Kimberly , Purinton Stacey , Durham Marcus , Li Jun ,   for the HIV Outpatient Study (HOPS) Investigators, Li Jun , Buchacz Kate , Durham Marcus D , Akridge Cheryl , Purinton Stacey , Rayeed Nabil , Agbobil-Nuwoaty Selom , Chagaris Kalliope , Carlson Kimberly , Armon Carl , Battalora Linda , Mahnken Jonathan , Corporation Cerner , City Kansas , Palella Frank J , Jahangir Saira , Flaherty Conor Daniel , Bustamante Patricia , Hammer John , Greenberg Kenneth S , Widick Barbara , Franklin Rosa , Ward Douglas J , Thomas Troy , Stewart Cheryl , Fuhrer Jack , Ording-Bauer Linda , Kelly Rita , Esteves Jane , Brook Stony , Tedaldi Ellen M , Christian Ramona A , Ruley Faye , Beadle Dania , Davenport Princess , Novak Richard M , Wendrow Andrea , Mayer Stockton , Scott Mia , Thomas Billie , VanSlyke Loraine , Mayer Cynthia , Beitler Terry , Maroney Karen , Franklin Denise
Published: April 2020

Background

The clinical epidemiology of treated HIV infection in the United States has dramatically changed in the past 25 years. Few sources of longitudinal data exist for people with HIV (PWH) spanning that period. Cohort data enable investigating new exposure and disease associations and monitoring progress along the HIV care continuum.

Methods

We synthesized key published findings and conducted primary data analyses in the HIV Outpatient Study (HOPS), an open cohort of PWH seen at public and private HIV clinics since 1993. We assessed temporal trends in health outcomes (1993–2017) and mortality (1994–2017) for 10 566 HOPS participants.

Results

The HOPS contributed to characterizing new conditions (eg, lipodystrophy), demonstrated reduced mortality with earlier HIV treatment, uncovered associations between select antiretroviral agents and cardiovascular disease, and documented remarkable shifts in morbidity from AIDS opportunistic infections to chronic noncommunicable diseases. The median CD4 cell count of participants increased from 244 cells/mm3 to 640 cells/mm3 from 1993 to 2017. Mortality fell from 121 to 16 per 1000 person-years from 1994 to 2017 (P < .001). In 2010, 83.7% of HOPS participants had a most recent HIV viral load <200 copies/mL, compared with 92.2% in 2017.

Conclusions

Since 1993, the HOPS has been detecting emerging issues and challenges in HIV disease management. HOPS data can also be used for monitoring trends in infectious and chronic diseases, immunologic and viral suppression status, retention in care, and survival, thereby informing progress toward the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative.
Investigation of Heartland Virus Disease Throughout the United States, 2013–2017
Authors: Staples J Erin , Pastula Daniel M , Panella Amanda J , Rabe Ingrid B , Kosoy Olga I , Walker William L , Velez Jason O , Lambert Amy J , Fischer Marc
Published: April 2020

Background

Heartland virus (HRTV) was first described as a human pathogen in 2012. From 2013 to 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implemented a national protocol to evaluate patients for HRTV disease, better define its geographic distribution, epidemiology, and clinical characteristics, and develop diagnostic assays for this novel virus.

Methods

Individuals aged ≥12 years whose clinicians contacted state health departments or the CDC about testing for HRTV infections were screened for recent onset of fever with leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on demographics, risk factors, and signs and symptoms; blood samples were tested for the presence of HRTV RNA and neutralizing antibodies.

Results

Of 85 individuals enrolled and tested, 16 (19%) had evidence of acute HRTV infection, 1 (1%) had past infection, and 68 (80%) had no infection. Patients with acute HRTV disease were residents of 7 states, 12 (75%) were male, and the median age (range) was 71 (43–80) years. Illness onset occurred from April to September. The majority reported fatigue, anorexia, nausea, headache, confusion, arthralgia, or myalgia. Fourteen (88%) cases were hospitalized; 2 (13%) died. Fourteen (88%) participants reported finding a tick on themselves in the 2 weeks before illness onset. HRTV-infected individuals were significantly older (P < .001) and more likely to report an attached tick (P = .03) than uninfected individuals.

Conclusions

Health care providers should consider HRTV disease testing in patients with an acute febrile illness with either leukopenia or thrombocytopenia not explained by another condition or who were suspected to have a tickborne disease but did not improve following appropriate treatment.
Rates and Predictors of Relapse in First-Episode Psychosis: An Australian Cohort Study
Authors: Brown Ellie , Bedi Gillinder , McGorry Pat , O’Donoghue Brian
Published: April 2020

Background

Clinical and functional recovery is usually achieved after treatment for a first episode of psychosis (FEP). Unfortunately, subsequent relapse remains common, occurring within a year for approximately 30% of individuals and up to 80% over 5 years. Factors that make relapse more likely in any given individual remain poorly understood.

Methods

This article presents a naturalistic cohort study of young people (15–24 years old) accessing an early intervention in psychosis service in Melbourne, Australia between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2016. Demographic and clinical predictors of relapse were collected and analyzed using Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 1220 young people presented with an FEP during the study period; 37.7% (N = 460) experienced at least 1 relapse during their episode of care. Over half of all relapses resulted in an admission to hospital. Non-adherence to medication, substance use, and psychosocial stressors were commonly noted as clinical precipitants of relapse. Significant predictors of relapse (vs no relapse) were a diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.62) or affective psychotic disorder (aHR = 1.37), lifetime amphetamine use (aHR = 1.48), and any substance use during treatment (aHR = 1.63).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that relapse occurs frequently for young people who have experienced FEP. This is one of the first studies to report that amphetamine use (predominantly illicit methamphetamine) increases the risk of relapse. Clinical services, especially in Australasia, need to consider how best to manage this comorbidity in young people with FEP.
Tradeoff between storage capacity and embolism resistance in the xylem of temperate broadleaf tree species
Authors: Chen Zhicheng , Zhu Shidan , Zhang Yongtao , Luan Junwei , Li Shan , Sun Pengsen , Wan Xianchong , Liu Shirong
Published: April 2020

Xylem traits are critical plant functional traits associated with water transport, mechanical support, and carbohydrate and water storage. Studies on the xylem hydraulic efficiency–safety tradeoff are numerous; however, the storage function of xylem parenchyma is rarely considered. The effects of a substantial number of xylem traits on water transport, embolism resistance, mechanical support, storage capacity and nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) content were investigated in 19 temperate broadleaf species planted in an arid limestone habitat in northern China. There was no xylem hydraulic efficiency–safety tradeoff in the 19 broadleaf species. The total parenchyma fraction was negatively correlated with the fiber fraction. Embolism resistance was positively correlated with indicators of xylem mechanical strength such as vessel wall reinforcement, vessel wall thickness and fiber wall thickness, and was negatively related to the axial parenchyma fraction, especially the paratracheal parenchyma fraction. The paratracheal parenchyma fraction was positively correlated with the ratio of the paratracheal parenchyma fraction to the vessel fraction. In addition, the xylem NSC concentration was positively related to the total parenchyma fraction and axial parenchyma fraction. There was a storage capacity–embolism resistance tradeoff in the xylem of 19 broadleaf species in arid limestone habitats. We speculate that the temperate broadleaf species may show a spectrum of xylem hydraulic strategies, from the embolism resistance strategy related to a more negative P50 (the water potential corresponding to 50% loss of xylem conductivity) to the embolization repair strategy based on more paratracheal parenchyma.
Patient Preferences for Prenatal and Postpartum Care Delivery
Authors: Peahl Alex Friedman , Novara Alli , Heisler Michele , Dalton Vanessa K. , Moniz Michelle H. , Smith Roger D.
Published: April 2020

OBJECTIVE:

To describe patients' preferences for prenatal and postpartum care delivery.

METHODS:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of postpartum patients admitted for childbirth and recovery at an academic institution. We assessed patient preferences for prenatal and postpartum care delivery, including visit number, between-visit contact (eg, phone and electronic medical record portal communication), acceptability of remote monitoring (eg, weight, blood pressure, fetal heart tones), and alternative care models (eg, telemedicine and home visits). We compared preferences for prenatal care visit number to current American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' recommendations (12–14 prenatal visits).

RESULTS:

Of the 332 women eligible for the study, 300 (90%) completed the survey. Women desired a median number of 10 prenatal visits (interquartile range 9–12), with most desiring fewer visits than currently recommended (fewer than 12: 63% [n=189]; 12–14: 22% [n=65]; more than 14: 15% [n=46]). Women who had private insurance or were white were more likely to prefer fewer prenatal visits. The majority of patients desired contact with their care team between visits (84%). Most patients reported comfort with home monitoring skills, including measuring weight (91%), blood pressure (82%), and fetal heart tones (68%). Patients reported that they would be most likely to use individual care models (94%), followed by pregnancy medical homes (72%) and home visits (69%). The majority of patients desired at least two postpartum visits (91%), with the first visit within 3 weeks after discharge (81%).

CONCLUSION:

Current prenatal and postpartum care delivery does not match patients' preferences for visit number or between-visit contact, and patients are open to alternative models of prenatal care, including remote monitoring. Future prenatal care redesign will need to consider diverse patients' preferences and flexible models of care that are tailored to work with patients in the context of their lives and communities.
Active maximum flexion after total knee arthroplasty is not related to posterior tibial slope, body mass index, or patient satisfaction: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sciberras Nadia C. , Deakin Angela H. , Picard Frederic
Published: April 2020

Background:

Postoperative active maximum flexion is a major contributor to effective knee function after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The lack of posterior tibial slope and a high body mass index (BMI) have been identified among the causative factors of reduced maximum flexion. This study investigated the correlation between these factors and maximum flexion achieved.

Methods:

All patients included in this retrospective study had a primary navigated TKA using Columbus® CR-knee implants (Aesculap, Tuttligen, Germany) and the Orthopilot® (Aesculap, Tuttligen, Germany) navigation system. At the 6-week review patients underwent a CT. At 1 yr, active flexion was measured by independent arthroplasty practitioners, and patient satisfaction was recorded. All CT measurements were taken by an independent radiologist. Posterior slope was indicated by a positive value.

Results:

One hundred and eighty-six knees were included. The mean patient age was 68 yr and mean BMI was 31.0. The mean maximum active flexion at 1 yr was 103 degrees (SD 9 degrees, range, 83 to 130 degrees). The mean posterior tibial slope (bony cut) was 2 degrees (SD 2 degrees, range −2 to 5 degrees). There was no correlation between posterior tibial slope and maximum flexion, r=0.086 (95% CI −0.058 to 0.227, P=0.245) between flexion and BMI, r=−0.112 (95% CI −0.251 to 0.032, P=0.129). There was a weak correlation between posterior slope and extension achieved, r=0.198 (95% CI 0.056 to 0.332, P=0.007), but this had little clinical predictive value. There was no link between either maximum flexion or patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

In this study, no relationship between posterior tibial slope or BMI and the degree of achieved active maximum flexion was found. Consequently, other factors should be considered when attempting to increase the maximum flexion achieved.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Corneal Haze After Transepithelial Collagen Cross-linking for Keratoconus: A Scheimpflug Densitometry Analysis
Authors: J.Lai Michael , Greenstein Steven A. , Gelles John D. , Hersh Peter S.
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

To quantitate corneal haze and analyze the postoperative time course of corneal haze after transepithelial corneal collagen cross-linking (TECXL) in patients with keratoconus.

Methods:

Patients underwent TECXL and were randomized into 2 groups. One group received intraoperative riboflavin 0.10% every minute, and the second group received riboflavin 0.10% every 2 minutes during ultraviolet exposure. Scheimpflug densitometry was measured preoperatively, and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to assess the postoperative time course. Densitometry measurements were also correlated with visual acuity, pachymetry, and topography outcomes.

Results:

Fifty-nine eyes of 43 patients with keratoconus were analyzed. Preoperative mean corneal densitometry was 20.45 ± 2.79. Mean densitometry increased at 1 month (22.58 ± 3.79; P < 0.001), did not significantly change between 1 and 3 months (22.64 ± 3.83; P = 0.8), and significantly improved between 3 and 12 months postoperatively (mean6 21.59 ± 3.39; P = 0.002, mean12 20.80 ± 3.27; P = 0.002). There was no difference between preoperative and 1-year densitometry measurements (P = 0.21). There was no significant difference between the 1-minute and 2-minute subgroups. In addition, corneal densitometry at either 3 months or 1 year did not correlate with uncorrected distance visual acuity (P = 0.4), corrected distance visual acuity (P = 0.1), or maximum keratometry (P = 0.5), 1 year after corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL).

Conclusions:

After TECXL, corneal haze increased slightly at 1 month, plateaued between 1 and 3 months, and returned to baseline between 3 and 12 months. In general, corneal haze in this study was substantially less than the haze previously reported for the standard cross-linking procedure. CXL-associated corneal haze did not correlate with the postoperative visual or topographic outcomes 1 year after CXL.
Comparative Effectiveness of Pylorus-Preserving Versus Standard Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Clinical Practice
Authors: Calderon Esteban , Day Ryan W. , Stucky Chee-Chee , Gray Richard J. , Pockaj Barbara A. , Chang Yu-Hui , Wasif Nabil
Published: April 2020

Objectives

We compared risk-adjusted short- and long-term outcomes between standard pancreaticoduodenectomy (SPD) and a pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD).

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for the years 2004 to 2014 to identify patients with adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head undergoing SPD and PPD. Margin status, lymph node yield, length of stay (LOS), 30- and 90-day mortality, and overall survival were compared.

Results

A total of 11,172 patients were identified, of whom 9332 (83.5%) underwent SPD and 1840 (16.5%) PPPD. There was no difference in patient age, sex, stage, tumor grade, radiation treatment, and chemotherapy treatment between the 2 groups. Total number of regional lymph nodes was examined, and surgical margin status and overall survival were also comparable. However, patients undergoing PPPD had a shorter LOS (11.3 vs 12.3 days, P < 0.001), lower 30-day mortality (2.5% vs 3.7%, P = 0.02), and 90-day mortality (5.5% vs 6.9%, P = 0.03). On multivariate analyses, patients undergoing SPD were at higher risk for 30-day mortality compared with PPPD (odds ratio, 1.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–2.13).

Conclusions

Standard pancreaticoduodenectomy and PPPD are oncologically equivalent, yet PPPD is associated with a reduction in postoperative mortality and shorter LOS.
Efficacy of Recombinant Human-Soluble Thrombomodulin for Severe Acute Pancreatitis in a Rat Experimental Model
Authors: Matsumoto Masataka , Kamei Keiko , Chikugo Takaaki , Matsumoto Ippei , Kawaguchi Kohei , Takeyama Yoshifumi
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Early death in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is caused by pancreatic necrosis and multiple-organ failure due to microcirculation disorder. The aim of this study was to prove that recombinant human-soluble thrombomodulin (rTM) has therapeutic effects on SAP by preventing pancreatic necrosis and organ failure.

Methods

Male Wister rats were used. Cerulein was administered intraperitoneally 4 times every 1 hour, and lipopolysaccharide was administered intraperitoneally 3 hours after. One hour after administration of lipopolysaccharide, rTM was injected intravenously. Rats were observed for 24 hours after starting the experiment, and the survival rate was evaluated. All surviving rats were killed, and the blood sample, liver, and pancreas were excised. Serum amylase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and high mobility group box 1 were measured, and the liver and pancreas were examined histologically. For the evaluation of microcirculation, von Willebrand factor staining was performed.

Results

Serum amylase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase were significantly decreased. The survival rate was significantly improved to 100%. Moreover, serum high mobility group box 1 was decreased. Liver injury and pancreatic necrosis became less severe, and microcirculation was preserved histologically.

Conclusions

Early administration of rTM prevents organ failure by maintenance of microcirculation and improves prognoses of SAP.
Augmenting an Inpatient Fall Program With Video Observation
Authors: Davis James E. , Carter-Templeton Heather
Published: April 2020

Background:

Keeping patients safe is a goal for all health care facilities. Facilities should look at technology as a way to help improve outcomes. Patient falls are a dangerous, costly, and preventable health care–associated event.

Local Problem:

The fall rate on the host facility's orthopedic unit was 2.6 per 1000 patient-days.

Methods:

Patients on an inpatient orthopedic unit who had a fall risk score greater than 13, based on the Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool, were provided with an added intervention, video observation.

Intervention:

Video observation units with 2-way communication were introduced to help prevent patient falls.

Results:

The fall rate per 1000 patient-days after implementing this intervention for 6 weeks was 0 falls per 1000 patient-days.

Conclusions:

There was a 100% decrease in patient falls on the inpatient unit where video observation was implemented.
Based on current trends, almost all African countries are likely to report over 1 000 COVID-19 cases by the end of April 2020, and over 10 000 a few weeks after that
Authors: Pearson Carl A. B. , Van Schalkwyk Cari , Foss Anna M. , O’Reilly Kathleen M. ,   SACEMA Modelling and Analysis Response Team,   CMMID COVID-19 working group, Pulliam Juliet R. C.
Published: April 2020

For African countries currently reporting COVID-19 cases, we estimate when they will report more than 1 000 and 10 000 cases. Assuming current trends, more than 80% are likely to exceed 1 000 cases by the end of April 2020, with most exceeding 10 000 a few weeks later.
Nitric oxide gas inhalation to prevent COVID-2019 in healthcare providers
Authors: Gianni Stefano , Fakhr Bijan Safaee , Araujo Morais Caio Cesar , Fenza Raffaele Di , Larson Grant , Pinciroli Riccardo , Houle Timothy , Mueller Ariel Louise , Bellavia Andrea , Kacmarek Robert , Carroll Ryan , Berra Lorenzo
Published: April 2020

Introduction

In human hosts, SARS-CoV-2 causes a respiratory syndrome (named COVID-19) which can range from a mild involvement of the upper airways to a severe pneumonia with acute respiratory syndrome that requires mechanical ventilation in an intensive care unit (ICU). Hospital-associated transmission is an important route of spreading for the SARS-CoV-2 virus and healthcare providers are at the highest risk. As of February 2020, 1716, Chinese healthcare workers had confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections and at least 6 died. Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine or pharmacological prophylaxis to decrease the risk of healthcare providers contracting the infection.

Methods and analysis

We will randomize 470 healthcare providers scheduled to work with COVID 19 patients to receive nitric oxide gas administration (NO group, n=235) or no gas administration (control group, n=235). The primary endpoint of this study is the incidence of subjects with COVID-19 disease at 14 days from enrollment. Secondary endpoints are the proportion of healthcare providers who present a positive real time RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV- 2 14 days after enrollment, the proportion of healthcare providers requiring quarantine, and the total number of quarantine days in the two groups.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial protocol is under the approval of The Partners Human Research Committee of Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, USA) and recruitment is expected to start in April 2020. The results of this study will be published in scientific journals and presented at scientific meetings.
Functional Immune Deficiency Syndrome via Intestinal Infection in COVID-19
Authors: Prates Erica T. , Garvin Michael R. , Pavicic Mirko , Jones Piet , Shah Manesh , Alvarez Christiane , Kainer David , Demerdash Omar , Amos B Kirtley , Geiger Armin , Pestian John , Jin Kang , Mitelpunkt Alexis , Bardes Eric , Aronow Bruce , Jacobson Daniel
Published: April 2020

Using a Systems Biology approach, we integrated genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and molecular structure information to provide a holistic understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic. The expression data analysis of the Renin Angiotensin System indicates mild nasal, oral or throat infections are likely and that the gastrointestinal tissues are a common primary target of SARS-CoV-2. Extreme symptoms in the lower respiratory system likely result from a secondary-infection possibly by a comorbidity-driven upregulation of ACE2 in the lung. The remarkable differences in expression of other RAS elements, the elimination of macrophages and the activation of cytokines in COVID-19 bronchoalveolar samples suggest that a functional immune deficiency is a critical outcome of COVID-19. We posit that using a non-respiratory system as a major pathway of infection is likely determining the unprecedented global spread of this coronavirus.

One Sentence Summary

A Systems Approach Indicates Non-respiratory Pathways of Infection as Key for the COVID-19 Pandemic
High-throughput PRPF31 variant characterisation pipeline consistent with ACMG/AMP clinical variant interpretation guidelines
Authors: Nazlamova Liliya , Cheung Man-Kim , Legebeke Jelmer , Lord Jenny , Pengelly Reuben J. , Tapper William , Wheway Gabrielle
Published: April 2020

Mutations in PRPF31 are the second most common cause of the degenerative retinal condition autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa. Difficulty in characterising missense variants in this gene presents a significant challenge in providing accurate diagnosis for patients to enable targeted testing of other family members, aid family planning, allow pre-implantation diagnosis and inform eligibility for gene therapy trials. With PRPF31 gene therapy in development, there is an urgent need for tools for accurate molecular diagnosis. Here we present a high-throughput high content imaging assay providing quantitative measure of effect of missense variants in PRPF31 which meets the recently published criteria for a baseline standard in vitro test for clinical variant interpretation. This assay utilizes a new and well-characterized PRPF31+/- human retinal cell line generated using CRISPR gene editing, which allows testing of PRPF31 variants which may be causing disease through either haploinsufficiency or dominant negative effects, or a combination of both. The mutant cells have significantly fewer cilia than wild-type cells, allowing rescue of ciliogenesis with benign or mild variants, but do not totally lack cilia, so dominant negative effects can be observed. The results of the assay provide BS3_supporting evidence to the benign classification of two novel uncharacterized PRPF31 variants and suggest that one novel uncharacterized PRPF31 variant may be pathogenic. We hope that this will be a useful tool for clinical characterisation of PRPF31 variants of unknown significance, and can be extended to variant classification in other ciliopathies.
Risk Factors Analysis of Acute Kidney Injury in Adult Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Mou Zhixiang
Published: April 2020

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been reported as one of the most common complication in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), the risk factors of AKI on ECMO is unknown. This meta-analysis aimed to find out the risk factors of AKI among adult patients receiving ECMO.

Methods

A literature search was performed using PubMed,Web of Science, and Embase fulfilled the pre-specified criteria until April 2020 to include studies reported the necessary clinic characteristics, then the gender, cancer, diffuse intravascular coagulation (DIC), massive/severe Bleeding, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), post-cardiotomy, diabetes mellitus, liver cirrhosis and ECMO support duration were pooled for further analysis by STATA to get conclusion.

Results

This research is first time to provide the evidence that patients developed AKI/severe AKI with a longer ECMO support duration (pooled WMD, 4.09 days; 95% CI: 2.45-5.73 days, Z= 4.89, P= 0.000, I2= 73.4%, χ2P= 0.023/pooled WMD, 1.52 days; 95% CI: 0.19-2.85 days, Z= 2.25, P= 0.025, I2= 77.4%, χ2P= 0.001) and the risk of severe AKI requiring RRT was higher (pooled OR, 2.22; 95% CI: 1.24-3.99, Z= 2.68, P= 0.007, I2= 0.0%, χ2P= 0.634) in liver cirrhosis patients by systemic analysis, indicated ECMO support duration and liver cirrhosis may act as risk factors of AKI in adult patients received ECMO.