bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular cloning and biochemical characterization of a NAD-dependent sorbitol dehydrogenase from cold-adaptedPseudomonas mandelii
Authors: DangThu Quynh , Nguyen Thu-Thuy , Jang Sei-Heon , Lee ChangWoo 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACTSugar alcohols (polyols) have important roles as nutrients, anti-freezing agents and scavengers of free radicals in cold-adapted bacteria, but the characteristics of polyol dehydrogenases in cold-adapted bacteria remain largely unknown. In this study, based on the observation that a cold-adapted bacterium Pseudomonas mandelii JR-1 predominantly utilized d-sorbitol as its carbon source, among the four polyols examined (d-galactitol, d-mannitol, d-sorbitol and d-xylitol), we cloned and characterized a sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH, EC 1.1.1.14) belonging to the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase family from this bacterium (the SDH hereafter referred to as PmSDH). PmSDH contained Asn111, Ser140, Tyr153 and Lys157 as catalytic active site residues and existed as an ∼67-kDa dimer in size-exclusion chromatography. PmSDH converted d-sorbitol to d-fructose using nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) as a cofactor and, vice versa, d-fructose to d-sorbitol using nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide reduced (NADH) as a cofactor. PmSDH maintained its conformational flexibility, secondary and tertiary structures, and thermal stability at 4–25°C. These results indicate that PmSDH, which has a flexible structure and a high catalytic activity at colder temperatures, is well suited to sorbitol utilization in the cold-adapted bacterium P. mandelii JR-1.
Modern contraceptive availability and stockouts: a multi-country analysis of trends in supply and consumption
Authors: Muhoza Pierre , Koffi Alain K , Anglewicz Philip , Gichangi Peter , Guiella Georges , OlaOlorun Funmilola , Omoluabi Elizabeth , Sodani P R , Thiongo Mary , Akilimali Pierre , Tsui Amy , Radloff Scott 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Approximately 214 million women of reproductive age lack adequate access to contraception for their family planning needs, yet patterns of contraceptive availability have seldom been examined. With growing demand for contraceptives in some areas, low contraceptive method availability and stockouts are thought to be major drivers of unmet need among women of reproductive age, though evidence for this is limited. In this research, we examined trends in stockouts, method availability and consumption of specific contraceptive methods in urban areas of four sub-Saharan African countries (Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and Nigeria) and India. We used representative survey data from the Performance Monitoring for Action Agile Project that were collected in quarterly intervals at service delivery points (SDP) stratified by sector (public vs private), with all countries having five to six quarters of surveys between 2017 and 2019. Among SDPs that offer family planning, we calculated the percentage offering at least one type of modern contraceptive method (MCM) for each country and quarter, and by sector. We examined trends in the percentage of SDPs with stockouts and which currently offer condoms, emergency contraception, oral pills, injectables, intrauterine devices and implants. We also examined trends of client visits for specific methods and the resulting estimated protection from pregnancy by quarter and country. Across all countries, the vast majority of SDPs had at least one type of MCM in-stock during the study period. We find that the frequency of stockouts varies by method and sector and is much more dynamic than previously thought. While the availability and distribution of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) were limited compared to other methods across countries, LARCs nonetheless consistently accounted for a larger portion of couple years of protection. We discuss findings that show the importance of engaging the private sector towards achieving global and national family planning goals.
Exclusion of bacterial co-infection in COVID-19 using baseline inflammatory markers and their response to antibiotics
Authors: Mason Claire Y , Kanitkar Tanmay , Richardson Charlotte J , Lanzman Marisa , Stone Zak , Mahungu Tabitha , Mack Damien , Wey Emmanuel Q , Lamb Lucy , Balakrishnan Indran , Pollara Gabriele 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 is infrequently complicated by bacterial co-infection, but antibiotic prescriptions are common. We used community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) as a benchmark to define the processes that occur in bacterial pulmonary infections, testing the hypothesis that baseline inflammatory markers and their response to antibiotic therapy could distinguish bacterial co-infection from COVID-19.

Methods
Retrospective cohort study of CAP (lobar consolidation on chest radiograph) and COVID-19 (PCR detection of SARS-CoV-2) patients admitted to Royal Free Hospital (RFH) and Barnet Hospital (BH), serving as independent discovery and validation cohorts. All CAP and &gt;90% COVID-19 patients received antibiotics on hospital admission.

Results
We identified 106 CAP and 619 COVID-19 patients at RFH. Compared with COVID-19, CAP was characterized by elevated baseline white cell count (WCC) [median 12.48 (IQR 8.2–15.3) versus 6.78 (IQR 5.2–9.5) ×106 cells/mL, P &lt; 0.0001], C-reactive protein (CRP) [median 133.5 (IQR 65–221) versus 86.0 (IQR 42–160) mg/L, P &lt; 0.0001], and greater reduction in CRP 48–72 h into admission [median ΔCRP −33 (IQR −112 to +3.5) versus +14 (IQR −15.5 to +70.5) mg/L, P &lt; 0.0001]. These observations were recapitulated in the independent validation cohort at BH (169 CAP and 181 COVID-19 patients). A multivariate logistic regression model incorporating WCC and ΔCRP discriminated CAP from COVID-19 with AUC 0.88 (95% CI 0.83–0.94). Baseline WCC &gt;8.2 × 106 cells/mL or falling CRP identified 94% of CAP cases, and excluded bacterial co-infection in 46% of COVID-19 patients.

Conclusions
We propose that in COVID-19, absence of both elevated baseline WCC and antibiotic-related decrease in CRP can exclude bacterial co-infection and facilitate antibiotic stewardship efforts.
On filament fragmentation and the impact of ambient environment on it
Authors: Anathpindika S V , Francesco J Di 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT
Filaments are crucial intermediaries in the star formation process. Recent observations of filaments show that (i) a number of them are non-singular entities, and rather a bundle of velocity coherent fibres, and (ii) while a majority of filaments spawn cores narrower than their natal filaments, some cores are broader. We explore these issues by developing hydrodynamic simulations of an initially sub-critical individual filament that is allowed to accrete gas from its neighbourhood and evolves under self-gravity. Results obtained here support the idea that fibres form naturally during the filament formation process. We further argue that the ambient environment, i.e. the magnitude of external pressure, and not the filament linemass alone, has bearing upon the morphology of its evolution. We observe that a filament is susceptible to the sausage-type instability irrespective of the external pressure. The fragments, however, are pinched in a filament experiencing pressure comparable to that in the Solar neighbourhood (∼104 K cm−3). By contrast, fragments are broad and spherical – having density profiles similar to that of a stable Bonnor–Ebert sphere – when the filament experiences a higher pressure, typically ≥105 K cm−3, but ≤106 K cm−3). The filament tends to rupture at even higher external pressure (≥107 K cm−3). These observations collectively mean that star formation is less efficient with increasing external pressure.
Ligand-dependent tRNA processing by a rationally designed RNase P riboswitch
Authors: Ender Anna , Etzel Maja , Hammer Stefan , Findeiß Sven , Stadler Peter , Mörl Mario 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
We describe a synthetic riboswitch element that implements a regulatory principle which directly addresses an essential tRNA maturation step. Constructed using a rational in silico design approach, this riboswitch regulates RNase P-catalyzed tRNA 5′-processing by either sequestering or exposing the single-stranded 5′-leader region of the tRNA precursor in response to a ligand. A single base pair in the 5′-leader defines the regulatory potential of the riboswitch both in vitro and in vivo. Our data provide proof for prior postulates on the importance of the structure of the leader region for tRNA maturation. We demonstrate that computational predictions of ligand-dependent structural rearrangements can address individual maturation steps of stable non-coding RNAs, thus making them amenable as promising target for regulatory devices that can be used as functional building blocks in synthetic biology.
Robust prediction of hourly PM2.5 from meteorological data using LightGBM
Authors: Zhong Junting , Zhang Xiaoye , Gui Ke , Wang Yaqiang , Che Huizheng , Shen Xiaojing , Zhang Lei , Zhang Yangmei , Sun Junying , Zhang Wenjie 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Retrieving historical fine particulate matter (PM2.5) data is key for evaluating the long-term impacts of PM2.5 on the environment, human health and climate change. Satellite-based aerosol optical depth has been used to estimate PM2.5, but estimations have largely been undermined by massive missing values, low sampling frequency and weak predictive capability. Here, using a novel feature engineering approach to incorporate spatial effects from meteorological data, we developed a robust LightGBM model that predicts PM2.5 at an unprecedented predictive capacity on hourly (R2 = 0.75), daily (R2 = 0.84), monthly (R2 = 0.88) and annual (R2 = 0.87) timescales. By taking advantage of spatial features, our model can also construct hourly gridded networks of PM2.5. This capability would be further enhanced if meteorological observations from regional stations were incorporated. Our results show that this model has great potential in reconstructing historical PM2.5 datasets and real-time gridded networks at high spatial-temporal resolutions. The resulting datasets can be assimilated into models to produce long-term re-analysis that incorporates interactions between aerosols and physical processes.
The Glossopharyngo-Cochlear Triangle—Part I: Quantitative Anatomic Analysis of High-Riding Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Aneurysms Exposed Through the Extended Retrosigmoid Approach
Authors: Zhao Xiaochun , Tayebi Meybodi Ali , Naeem Komal , Belykh Evgenii , Labib Mohamed A , Baranoski Jacob F , Catapano Joshua S , Mascitelli Justin R , Preul Mark C , Lawton Michael T 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
An extended retrosigmoid approach can offer sufficient space for clip reconstruction of some high-riding posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE
To quantitatively investigate the glossopharyngo-cochlear triangle (GCT) and anatomic structures within it.

METHODS
Extended retrosigmoid craniotomies were performed on 10 sides of cadaveric heads, and the GCT was identified in each specimen. The length of the base and the area of the GCT were measured. The depth of the vertebrobasilar system and the abducens nerve to the GCT were measured. The proximal and distal exposable and controllable points on the vertebrobasilar system were identified. Two imaging-based patient selection algorithms are provided using the lengths from those points to the vertebral artery dural entry point and the superoinferior distances from those points to the inferior edge of the foramen magnum. Other factors related to accessibility via the GCT were investigated.

RESULTS
The mean (standard deviation [SD]) area of the GCT was 45.7 (12.55) mm2. The mean (SD) depth of the abducens nerve was 14.3 (1.42) mm. The mean (SD) superoinferior distances from the foramen magnum to those points were 23.1 (7.39), 24.7 (8.25), 30.0 (9.56), and 32.6 (7.79) mm, respectively. The lower segment of the vertebrobasilar system was more superficial in the setting of a high-lying vertebrobasilar junction (VBJ) than a low-lying VBJ.

CONCLUSION
We describe the GCT in an extended retrosigmoid approach for high-riding PICA aneurysms and evaluate the spatial relationship of the neurovascular structures within it. Two potential algorithms are offered for preoperative patient selection.
Intraoperative Computed Tomography for Registration of Stereotactic Frame in Frame-Based Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Jones Michael R , Baskaran Archit B , Nolt Mark J , Rosenow Joshua M 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrode placement utilizing a frame-based technique requires registration of the stereotactic frame with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. This traditionally has been accomplished with a conventional CT scanner. In recent years, intraoperative CT has become more prevalent.

OBJECTIVE
To compare the coordinates obtained with intraoperative CT and conventional CT for registration of the stereotactic frame for DBS.

METHODS
Patients undergoing DBS electrode placement between 2015 and 2017, who underwent both conventional and intraoperative CT for registration of the stereotactic frame, were included for analysis. The coordinates for the stereotactic target, anterior commissure, and posterior commissure for each CT method were recorded. The mean, maximum, minimum, and standard deviation of the absolute difference for each of the paired coordinates was calculated. Paired t-tests were performed to test for statistical significance of the difference. The directional difference as well as the vector error between the paired coordinates was also calculated.

RESULTS
The mean absolute difference between conventional and intraoperative CT for the coordinate pairs was less than 0.279 mm or 0.211 degrees for all coordinate pairs analyzed. This was not statistically significant for any of the coordinate pairs. Moreover, the maximum absolute difference between all coordinate pairs was 1.04 mm.

CONCLUSION
Intraoperative CT imaging provides stereotactic frame registration coordinates that are similar to those obtained by a standard CT scanner. This may save time and hospital resources by obviating the need for the patient to go to the radiology department for a CT scan.
C1-2 Pedicle Screw Fixation for Ponticulus Posticus and Duplication of Vertebral Artery: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Jung Yoon Gyo , Lee Byung-Jou , Park Wonhyoung , Park Jin Hoon 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
We previously introduced C1 pedicle screw placement to treat C1-2 pathology in a patient with normal vertebral artery anatomy.
1
However, we should prepare to meet various anatomic variations. Ponticulus posticus is a bony prominence arising from the posterior arch or the superior articulating process of the atlas that completely or partially encircles the vertebral artery.
2
We herein report a 79-yr-old female who presented with myelopathy and was diagnosed with compressive myelopathy at the C1 level in magnetic resonance imaging. A computed tomography showed ponticulus posticus (complete type to the right side) with duplication of vertebral artery.
She underwent surgical treatment of C1-2 pedicle screw placement and reduction of C1 vertebra under a microscopic view. After C1 laminectomy, both-side vertebral arteries were dissected with a microscissor. The mobilization of upper divisions of vertebral artery was identified to secure the entry point and pedicle to insert a C1 pedicle screw. After complete protection of the upper and lower divisions of vertebral artery and identification of pedicle, a C1 pedicle screw was inserted by a freehand technique. We inserted autologous bone chips in the distracted C1-2 facet joint for facet joint fusion, and the C1 vertebra was pulled out by a rod reducer.
After surgery, the patient's symptoms disappeared, and no vertebral artery injury was identified in postoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography angiography.
Patient consent was obtained prior to performing the procedure.
Lateral Myelotomy for Resection of a Ruptured Intramedullary Cervico-Thoracic Cavernous Malformation
Authors: Ginalis Elizabeth E , Herschman Yehuda , Patel Nitesh V , Jumah Fareed , Xiong Zhenggang , Hanft Simon J 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE
Intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations represent 5% to 12% of spinal vascular disease. Most patients present with acute or progressive neurological symptoms, including motor weakness or sensory loss. Surgical resection is the only definitive management and is recommended for symptomatic lesions that are surgically accessible.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION
A 35-yr-old woman presented with a sudden onset of pain and temperature sensation loss in the left lower extremity. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine showed a hemorrhage located ventral and slightly lateral to the right of the midline of the spinal cord from C7 through T3. Ultimately, a right lateral myelotomy between the ventral and dorsal roots was performed, and the cavernous malformation was removed. Postoperative imaging confirmed gross total resection of the cavernous malformation.

CONCLUSION
In this article, we report a highly unusual case of a multisegment, ruptured intramedullary cavernous malformation that was ultimately resected through a lateral myelotomy approach. This case demonstrates that a lateral approach to the spinal cord substance can be utilized for ruptured cavernous malformation, especially if there is hemorrhage at the surface of the spinal cord. This can be used as an entry into the anterolateral compartment of the spinal cord, which would otherwise be regarded as a highly morbid approach due to the sensory deficits induced. We believe this entry point to the spinal cord is feasible in highly select cases such as this.
Sterile Gelatin Film Reduces Cortical Injury Associated With Brain Tumor Re-Resection
Authors: Przybylowski Colin J , So Veronica , DeTranaltes Kaylee , Walker Corey , Baranoski Jacob F , Chapple Kristina , Sanai Nader 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Recurrent intracranial tumors frequently require re-resection. Dural adhesions to the cortex increase the morbidity and duration of these revision craniotomies.

OBJECTIVE
To describe the use of commercially available sterile gelatin film to prevent meningocerebral adhesions and decrease the rate of surgically induced ischemia from revision craniotomy.

METHODS
This retrospective cohort study examined patients with recurrent glioma, meningioma, and metastasis who underwent re-resection at least 30 d following their initial tumor resection. Cortical surface tissue ischemia after re-resection on diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was compared for patients with (gelatin film group) and without (nongelatin film group) a history of gelatin film placement at the conclusion of their initial tumor resection.

RESULTS
A total of 84 patients in the gelatin film group were compared to 86 patients in the nongelatin film group. Patient age, sex, tumor pathology, tumor volume, tumor eloquence, laterality of surgical approach, history of radiotherapy, and time interval between resections did not differ between groups. Radiographic evidence of cortical ischemia following reoperation was less prevalent in the gelatin film group (13.1% vs 32.6%; P < .01). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, no gelatin film (P < .01) and larger tumor size (P = .02) predicted cortical surface ischemia following revision craniotomy. Postoperative complications in the gelatin film and nongelatin film group otherwise did not differ.

CONCLUSION
Routine placement of commercially available sterile gelatin film on the cortex prior to dural closure is associated with decreased surgically induced tissue ischemia at the time of revision tumor craniotomy.
Nipping Diseases in the Bud? Ethical and Social Considerations of the Concept of ‘Disease Interception’
Authors: Narchi Jonas , Winkler Eva C 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
‘Disease interception’ describes the treatment of a disease in its clinically inapparent phase and is increasingly used in medical literature. However, no precise definition, much less an ethical evaluation, has been developed yet. This article starts with a definition of ‘disease interception’ by distinguishing it from other preventions. It then analyses the ethical and social implications of the concept in light of the four principles of medical ethics by Beauchamp and Childress. The term ‘disease interception’ refers to a form of secondary prevention applied in a short interception window intended to prevent a preclinical disease from developing further. We propose the definition ‘early and targeted secondary prevention by treatment’. The ethical evaluation of the concept shows that while it promises to be beneficial, it raises a number of ethical and social challenges regarding patient autonomy and justice. In order to ensure decision-making that respects patient autonomy, commercially motivated metaphors such as ‘disease interception’ should make way for precise definitions. Future research should not only focus on how to detect clinically inapparent diseases but also on the ethical question, when this is justifiable and what consequences it has for the individual and society as a whole.
Evaluation of on-farm indicators of gilt reproductive performance potential at 21 days of age1
Authors: Mills Kayla M , Schinckel Allan P , Stevens Jebadiah G , Casey Theresa M , Stewart Kara R 
Published: December 2020

AbstractSelection of replacements for the sow herd is one of the most important facets in swine production. Although our current methods of selection are effective, there is still a large amount of variation in sow reproductive performance traits such as pigs per sow per year (PSY). Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if on-farm phenotypic traits at 21 d postnatal (PN) or perinatal environmental factors could predict sow reproductive performance. Data were prospectively collected from 2,146 gilts born on a commercial sow production facility and included birth and weaning weights, vulva length and width at 21 d PN, birth and nursing litter size, days nursed, average daily gain from birth to weaning, and age at first estrus. Of the initial animals, 400 (17%) were selected for the sow herd, 353 remained after removal of animals culled for non-reproductive reasons. Animals were assigned to 1 of 5 reproductive performance categories based on observation of estrus or pigs per sow per year (PSY) across two farrowings: High Fertility (HF; 23%; n = 82; ≥26 PSY), Middle Fertility (MF2; 12%; n = 43; 20–25 PSY), Low Fertility (MF3; 15%; n = 54; &lt;20 PSY), Infertile-Estrus (IFe; 10%; n = 36; estrus, no pregnancy), and Infertile-No Estrus (IFno; 39%; n = 138; no estrus, no pregnancy). Generalized linear model analysis indicated vulva width (P = 0.03) was related to PSY, however, it only explained 1.5% of the total variation in PSY. To determine if preweaning variables were predictive of gilt fertility outcome, animals were grouped as those that became pregnant (n = 179) or not (n = 174). Vulva width tended to be greater in fertile animals versus infertile (P = 0.07). Binomial regression analysis revealed a positive relationship between vulva width and gilt fertility, however, this relationship is not strong enough to make sow herd selection decisions.