bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biochemical follow‐up of nonfunctioning benign thyroid nodules
Authors: Memon Raafia , Salgado Nunez del Prado Silvia R. , Lamos Elizabeth M. , Mohtasebi Yasaman , Yip Terry Cheuk‐Fung , Magder Laurence , Munir Kashif M. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractObjectiveFor the biochemical follow‐up of benign thyroid nodules, some authors recommend periodic lifelong measurement of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) to assess for the development of toxic nodules over time. The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the incidence of thyroid dysfunction over time in patients with benign thyroid nodule(s), with a normal TSH at diagnosis and to identify any factors that may predict biochemical dysfunction over time.MethodsMedical records of patients with the diagnosis of thyroid nodule(s) between January 2011 and August 2014 were reviewed. Patients who had TSH measurement within 1 year of initial diagnostic ultrasound (US) were included.ResultsOne‐hundred fifty‐seven patients identified with thyroid nodule(s) satisfied inclusion criteria. At a median follow‐up of 45 (34‐63) months, 13 (8.3%) patients developed thyroid dysfunction. The mean initial TSH in the group which developed subclinical hyperthyroidism (0.65 mIU/mL) was statistically different from the group that did not develop thyroid dysfunction (1.37 mIU/mL, P: 0.007). More patients with TSH <1 mIU/L developed thyroid dysfunction as compared to subjects with TSH ≥1 mIU/L (P: .022). There was no significant difference in the incidence of thyroid dysfunction on the basis of gender, race, smoking status, TPO Ab positivity and number of nodules at diagnosis.ConclusionsWe recommend re‐examining the current practice and clinical utility of frequent TSH monitoring in all patients with thyroid nodules, particularly if initial TSH level is ≥1 mIU/L.
Voltage‐gated potassium channel complex (VGKC) antibody encephalitis in a Filipino adult: A reversible cause of early‐onset neurocognitive disorder
Authors: Ocampo Ferron F. , Saniel Edmundo G. , Martinez Ma. Socorro C. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundVoltage‐gated potassium channels (VGKCs) are cell‐surface proteins with several functions in the central nervous system. VGKC antibody encephalitis is caused by antibodies against the cell‐surface antigens that are part of the VGKC complex, which are highly concentrated in the limbic lobes and the hippocampus.Case PresentationWe report a case of a 46‐year‐old Filipino female who presented with subacute onset of memory loss, behavioral changes, and focal motor seizures. On cranial magnetic resonance imaging, there were increased signal intensities on both medial temporal lobes but no intracranial tumor, restricted diffusion, or meningeal enhancement. Electroencephalography showed focal slowing on bilateral frontotemporal regions and blood test revealed hyponatremia. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed high titers for antibodies against VGKC complex. Pulse intravenous steroid therapy was administered and oral steroids and azathioprine were continued as outpatient. The patient showed significant response with marked improvement of memory without any recurrence of seizure episodes.ConclusionThis case highlights VGKC antibody encephalitis as an important diagnostic consideration in patients presenting with subacute onset of memory loss, behavioral changes, and seizures. With prompt initiation of immunosuppressive therapy, neurocognitive changes can be potentially reversed.
Chornobyl radiation—congenital anomalies: A persisting dilemma
Authors: Wertelecki Wladimir 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe report population prevalence rates of neural tube defects (NDT) and microcephaly (MIC) as well as levels of incorporated Cs137 by pregnant women in two areas of the Rivne Province of Ukraine, a northern half (Polissia) polluted by Chornobyl radiation and not‐Polissia areas. Monitoring of congenital malformations was conducted with adherence to methods adopted by a European surveillance network (EUROCAT). Incorporated Cs137 (Bq/kg) by pregnant women residing in the Polissia and not‐Polissia areas were obtained concurrently with prenatal ultrasound examinations. In Polissia, the incorporated Cs137 levels by pregnant women as well as the prevalence rates of NDTs and MIC are significantly higher than in not‐Polissia. In Polissia, the prevalence rates of NDTs and MIC are among the highest in Europe. The debate concerning the teratogenic impact of chronic exposures to low levels of ionizing radiation was re‐ignited by our 2010 report. Health agencies uphold the notion that exposure to Chornobyl radiation levels are too low to be teratogenic, which is inconsistent with our observations. Further investigations in Rivne by international teams can, we believe, contribute facts to the ongoing debate. Our monitoring system, experience and data can facilitate concurrent investigations of teratogenic risks from exposures to other sources of ionizing radiation, alcohol, folate, and zinc deficiencies, among other risk factors. Study of genomic impacts can likewise be undertaken.
Elevated prevalence of nodal positivity in carcinoid tumours of the appendix smaller than 2 cm has a negative impact on overall survival
Authors: Skancke M. , Sharp S. P. , Maron D. J. , Wexner S. D. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractAimThe current standard of care for clinically node‐negative carcinoid tumours of the appendix < 2.0 cm in size is appendectomy alone. The aim of this analysis was to evaluate the prevalence of pathological nodal positivity in clinically node‐negative appendiceal tumour specimens < 2.0 cm and quantify the impact of occult pathological nodal positivity on overall survival following resection.MethodA retrospective database review of the 2019 US National Cancer Database for appendiceal cancer identified 2007 cases of clinically node‐negative appendiceal carcinoid tumours based on SEER histology codes 8240, 8241, 8242, 8243, 8243, 8244, 8245, 8246 and 8249. Kaplan–Meier with log‐rank testing and multivariate Cox regression analysis evaluated the impact of occult nodal positivity on overall survival following resection for clinically node‐negative appendiceal carcinoma.ResultsThe prevalence of occult nodal positivity increased from 1.9% for sub‐centimetre tumours to 7% for tumours between 1.0 and 1.5 cm, 16.5% for tumours between 1.5 and 2.0 cm and to >29.5% for tumours > 2.0 cm. Rates of metastatic spread were similar for tumours < 2.0 cm but increased for larger tumours. Over two‐thirds of patients received a segmental colectomy as definitive surgical therapy. After controlling for differences in cohorts, multivariate analysis showed an increased hazard ratio for mortality of 162% (HR 2.62, CI 1.884–3.541) for patients with pathological node‐positive disease.ConclusionClinically node‐negative carcinoid tumours of the appendix bigger than 1.5 cm have an increased rate of occult nodal spread which has a negative impact on overall survival.
Genetic variation in lean body mass, changes of appetite and weight loss in response to diet interventions: The POUNDS Lost trial
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhou Tao , Ma Hao , Heianza Yoriko , Champagne Catherine M. , Williamson Donald A. , Bray George A. , Sacks Frank M. , Qi Lu 
Published: July 2020

AbstractAimTo investigate whether the genetic risk score (GRS) for lean body mass (LBM) modified the effects of weight‐loss diets on changes in appetite and adiposity among overweight and obese individuals.Participants and MethodsIn the 2‐year Preventing Overweight Using Novel Dietary Strategies (POUNDS Lost) trial, we included 692 adults who were randomly assigned to one of four diets varying in macronutrient intake. A GRS was calculated using five single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with LBM.ResultsThe LBM‐GRS was not associated with the baseline LBM measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry in a subgroup (50%) of the study population. We found that the LBM‐GRS had significantly different associations with changes in appetite from baseline to 6 months according to low‐ or high‐fat diet group (P‐interaction < 0.001, 0.021, 0.005 and 0.024 for total appetite score, hunger, fullness and prospective consumption, respectively). Lower LBM‐GRS (indicating a greater genetic predisposition to LBM) was associated with greater decreases in the total appetite score (P < 0.001), hunger (P = 0.01), fullness (P = 0.001) and prospective consumption (P = 0.019) in participants in the low‐fat diet group, whereas no significant associations with these appetite measures were observed in the high‐fat diet group. In addition, lower LBM‐GRS was associated with greater reduction in body weight (P = 0.003) and waist circumference (P = 0.011) among participants in the low‐fat diet group, while no associations were observed in the high‐fat diet group. The interactions attenuated, along with weight regain, from 6 months to 2 years.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that genetic variation in LBM may be differentially associated with appetite changes, and may subsequently be related to changes in body weight and waist circumference, according to dietary fat intake.
When LIBOR becomes LIEBOR: Reputational penalties and bank contagion
Authors: Fabrizi Michele , Huan Xing , Parbonetti Antonio 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe study whether commonality of incentives and opportunity to commit fraud trigger reputational contagion from culpable firms to nonculpable firms. Relying on a sample of 30 banks involved in fixing the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and a control sample of 30 banks, we find that banks' reputations suffered substantial damage upon the announcement of their involvement in the scandal. We also document reputational contagion spread from banks that manipulated LIBOR to banks that shared the same incentives and opportunity to commit the fraud. The reputational contagion is more pronounced for large derivatives dealers who have had the strongest incentive to commit the fraud.
The Postnatal Development of the Temporomandibular Joint of the Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Wilson N.H.F. , Gardner D.L. 
Published: July 2020

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ)of 55 male and 50 female common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) with an age range of 1 day‐ to < 12‐yr‐old have been studied to extend the knowledge on the craniomandibular articulation of this primate. Details of changes in the bone structure, gross and functional anatomy, and histologic appearance of the marmoset TMJ during the neonatal period, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood are compared with those which occur in the TMJ of man. It is concluded that further investigations on the structure and function of the marmoset TMJ and jaws may establish this nonhuman primate as a valuable analog for TMJ research in man.
Standard Nomenclature for Primate Breeding and Husbandry
Authors: Hall Arthur S. 
Published: July 2020

Managers of primate colonies seek to record colony data in a systematic way which will be helpful in daily management. Each colony develops individual record systems, tailored to its specific operations and budget. These diversified systems provide the base for a set of uniform record items, which enables information to be shared among institutions, and used for the overall management of a self‐sustaining captive primate population, as well as for national planning of primate resources.The present report identifies basic information needed for local colony management and data items that require standard nomenclature. Such data will provide the basic demographic profiles unavailable at most primate colonics today.
Blood Pressure Values in Macaca fascicularis
Authors: Hartley L. Howard , Rodger Richard , Nicolosi Robert J. , Hartley Thomas 
Published: July 2020

Normal data are presented for blood pressure values of adult Macaca fascicularis. The mean arterial pressure (direct) was 99 ± 9.8 mmHg (mean ± standard deviation) and was not correlated with sex. age. or weight. Normative data are presented that suggest that this species has a range of values similar to that observed in other primate species including man.
In Vitro Incorporation of (U‐C14)‐Glucose and (1‐C14)‐Sodium Acetate in Peripheral Nerves of Malnourished Young Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Rana S.V. , Mehta S. , Chopra J.S. , Nain C.K. , Mehta J. , Dhand U.K. 
Published: July 2020

The effect of protein calorie malnutrition (PCM) on synthesis of lipids in peripheral nerves was studied by in vitro incorporation of (U‐C14)‐glucose and (1‐C14)‐sodium acetate. Ulnar and tibial nerves obtained from five young rhesus monkeys with PCM, five rehabilitated monkeys, and five control monkeys were incubated for 2 h with the radioactive precursors. Uptake of both radioactive precursors in whole peripheral nerves as well as myelin marker lipids was significantly decreased in animals with PCM. However, uptake returned to normal in rehabilitated monkeys.
Characterization of Various Molecular Species of Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone in Baboon Pituitary Preparations
Authors: Khan S.A. , Katzija G. , Fröysa B. , Diczfalusy E. 
Published: July 2020

The properties of baboon (Papio hamadryas) follicle‐stimulating hormone (bFSH) have been studied after isoelectrofocusing (IEF) of individual pituitary extracts from five female and three male baboons and of a partially purified bFSH preparation (CM‐1). The in vitro bioactivities of the female and male pituitary extracts and of CM‐1 were 6.0 (range 4.1–9.6), 10.8 (6.9–18.2), and 34.1 (30.3–38.3) mg equivalent of LER 1909‐2 reference standard per mg protein, respectively. The corresponding ratios of bioactivity to immunoreactivity (B/I) were 1.72 (range 1.31–2.06), 1.82 (1.53–2.25), and 1.54 (1.51–1.58), respectively. There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in all B/I ratios after IEF, due to a diminished immunoreactivity without any loss in bioactivity. Several molecular forms of bFSH were observed with pI values ranging from 4.5 to 7.5, with maximum activity between pH 4.5 to 6.0. The IEF profiles of female and male pituitaries and of the purified bFSH preparation were similar. However, the B/I ratios of the different molecular species of bFSH increased with increasing pI values in every case.It is concluded that there is a significant heterogeneity of bFSH in crude as well as in purified pituitary extracts, but neither the sex of the animals nor the process of purification influenced the quantity and distribution of various molecular species.
The Influence of Physical and Chemical Restraint on the Physiology of the Chacma Baboon (Papio ursinus)
Authors: Goosen D.J. , Davies J.H. , Maree Marianne , Dormehl Irene C. 
Published: July 2020

The chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) is extensively used in South Africa for biomedical research. Being a large primate, it is always necessary to apply some measure of chemical or physical restraint. The physiological effects of placing an animal in a restraint chair are compared with the effects of various chemical agents, such as ketamine, halothane, and ketamine/xylazine combination over 90 min. It was found that ketamine and thiopentone infusion were a satisfactory chemical restraint agent that gave a stable physiological state over 90 min.
Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Axis, Including Aldosterone Binding Globulin and Blood Pressure in Three Species of Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Mavoungou D. , Nowaczynski W. , Cooper R.W. , Collet J‐Y , Fung K. 
Published: July 2020

Variables of renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone axis with inclusion of protein binding to specific plasma globulin (ABG), plasma cortisol, and the blood pressure (BP) were measured in 24 chimpanzees, 4 gorillas, and 16 cynomolgus monkeys. ABG activity was readily detected in plasma from the primates. In chimpanzees and gorillas, all the variables under baseline conditions were similar to those in humans. In cynomolgus (Macaca fascicularis), both the ABG binding capacity for aldosterone and the diastolic or systolic BP were significantly higher (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01 respectively) than in chimpanzees and gorillas.
Correlative Clinical Biochemistry and Hematological Profiles of Laboratory‐Bred Bolivian Squirrel Monkeys (Saimiri sciureus)
Authors: Kakoma I. , James M.A. , Jackson W. , Montealegre F. , Bennett G. , Carpunky P. , Ristic M. 
Published: July 2020

Twenty‐five clinical and biochemical parameters were determined on 17 normal, male, laboratory‐bred Bolivian squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus). Parallel hematologic parameters were conducted. The correlation of biochemical and hematological observations and the distribution characteristics, range, and standard error of the mean were determined.The purpose of the present communication is to establish baseline biochemical values for laboratory‐bred squirrel monkeys and to present a correlative comparison between selected cellular elements and major blood electrolytes.
“Normal” Blood Pressure in Chimpanzees
Authors: Eichberg Jorg W. , Shade Robert E. 
Published: July 2020

During routine physical examination under ketamine sedation, 140 blood pressure measurements from male and 170 from female chimpanzees were derived over a period of 3 yr. Statistical analysis revealed generally no differences between the sexes but significant increases of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with increasing age. The data obtained may constitute a useful management tool with which to identify hypertensive chimpanzees and suggests that this animal species could be a model for hypertension research.
A comparison of the prevalence of health problems among adults with and without intellectual disability: A total administrative population study
Authors: McMahon Martin , Hatton Chris 
Published: July 2020

AbstractIntroductionThere is considerable international research indicating health disparities between people with and without intellectual disabilities. It is important that comparative studies use representative population samples. This study compares a total administrative population of adults with intellectual disability to a random stratified general population sample.MethodsAn administrative population of 217 adults with intellectual disability and a random stratified sample of 2,350 adults without intellectual disability participated. A questionnaire using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐10) Chapter Headings was administered to all participants to enable a like‐for‐like comparison.FindingsUnadjusted comparisons identified that adults with intellectual disability have a greater prevalence of health problems. These problems start early in adulthood and continue throughout life. However, they were less likely to experience cancers and musculoskeletal diseases.ConclusionsThese findings are consistent with the hypothesis that adults with intellectual disabilities have greater prevalence rates of health problems than the general population.
Nutrition, growth, and other factors associated with early cognitive and motor development in Sub‐Saharan Africa: a scoping review
Authors: French B. , Outhwaite L.A. , Langley‐Evans S. C. , Pitchford N. J. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundFood insecurity, poverty and exposure to infectious disease are well‐established drivers of malnutrition in children in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Early development of cognitive and motor skills – the foundations for learning – may also be compromised by the same or additional factors that restrict physical growth. However, little is known about factors associated with early child development in this region, which limits the scope to intervene effectively. To address this knowledge gap, we compared studies that have examined factors associated with early cognitive and/or motor development within this population.MethodsPredetermined criteria were used to examine four publication databases (PsycInfo, Embase, Web of Science and Medline) and identify studies considering the determinants of cognitive and motor development in children aged 0–8 years in Sub‐Saharan Africa.ResultsIn total, 51 quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting on 30% of countries across the region. Within these papers, factors associated with early child development were grouped into five themes: Nutrition, Growth and Anthropometry, Maternal Health, Malaria and HIV, and Household. Food security and dietary diversity were associated with positive developmental outcomes, whereas exposure to HIV, malaria, poor maternal mental health, poor sanitation, maternal alcohol abuse and stunting were indicators of poor cognitive and motor development.DiscussionIn this synthesis of research findings obtained across Sub‐Saharan Africa, factors that restrict physical growth are also shown to hinder the development of early cognitive and motor skills, although additional factors also influence early developmental outcomes. The study also reviews the methodological limitations of conducting research using Western methods in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Florigen trafficking integrates photoperiod and temperature signals in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Lu , Zhang Yu , Yu Hao 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThe transition to flowering is the most dramatic phase change in flowering plants and is crucial for reproductive success. A complex regulatory network in plants has evolved to perceive and integrate the endogenous and environmental signals. These signals perceived, including day length and temperature, converge to regulate FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), which encodes a mobile stimulus required for floral induction in Arabidopsis. Despite the discovery of modulation of FT messenger RNA (mRNA) expression by ambient temperature, whether the trafficking of FT protein is controlled in response to changes in growth temperature is so far unknown. Here, we show that FT transport from companion cells to sieve elements is controlled in a temperature‐dependent manner. This process is mediated by multiple C2 domain and transmembrane region proteins (MCTPs) and a soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor protein attachment protein receptor (SNARE). Our findings suggest that ambient temperatures regulate both FT mRNA expression and FT protein trafficking to prevent precocious flowering at low temperatures and ensure plant reproductive success under favorable environmental conditions.
Military Families' Stressful Reintegration, Family Climate, and Their Adolescents' Psychosocial Health
Authors: O'Neal Catherine Walker , Mancini Jay A. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractObjectiveGrounded in the Contextual Model of Family Stress, this study sought to identify (a) how military families' postdeployment reintegration experiences relate to the psychosocial health of adolescents and (b) indicators of family climate as a linking mechanism.BackgroundReintegration requires individuals, families, and systems to readjust after a period of family disruption. Assessing reintegration is pivotal for understanding how military families are faring and what leverage points exist for enhancing their well‐being.MethodThe sample included 238 Active Duty (AD) military families with one service member and one civilian parent. Most parents were married and between the ages of 31–40 years. Adolescents (51.3% boys) ranged from 11 to 18 years (M = 14.13). A path analysis model with data from multiple family members examined the associations between (a) AD and civilian parents' perceptions of their family reintegration and military context, (b) their adolescents' perceptions of family climate, and (3) adolescents' psychosocial health (i.e., anxiety, depression, self‐efficacy, and personal well‐being).ResultsBoth parents' experiences with family reintegration were indirectly related to adolescents' psychosocial health through indicators of family climate, particularly interparental conflict. The magnitude of significant effects ranged from small to medium, and time since deployment and gender were found to modify select findings.ConclusionThese findings suggest clear leverage points for interventions with military families as they adjust to deployment reintegration, including a focus on parenting, parents' interactions with one another as a family reorients after deployment, and how adolescents perceive their own adjustment and that of their parents.