bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservation prioritization based on trait‐based metrics illustrated with global parrot distributions
Authors: Kosman Evsey , Burgio Kevin R. , Presley Steven J. , Willig Michael R. , Scheiner Samuel M.
Published: May 2019

Aim

Conservation planning and prioritization generally have focused on protecting taxa based on assessments of their long‐term persistence or on protecting habitats and sites with high species richness. An implicit assumption of these approaches is that species are equally different from each other. We propose metrics for conservation planning and prioritization that include consideration of differences among taxa in their functional characteristics to ensure long‐term maintenance of ecosystem functioning and services.

Innovation

We define metrics of functional distinctiveness, irregularity and singularity for a species. Functional distinctiveness is the mean distance in trait space of a species to all other species in a community. Functional irregularity is the variation in the proportional distances of a focal species to all other species based on a Hill function. Functional singularity is the product of those two metrics. These metrics can be weighted based on proportional abundance, biomass or frequency of occurrence. The metrics can be used to prioritize particular species for conservation based on their functional characteristics or to identify functionally distinct priority areas for conservation using the mean functional distinctiveness, irregularity and singularity of a set of species in an area. The metrics can be compared to the species richness of that area, thereby identifying areas that might have low species richness, but whose species are especially functionally distinct, providing important information of conservation relevance.

Main conclusions

Applying these metrics to data on the global distributions of parrots, we identified species that are not of current conservation concern because they are geographically widespread, but which might be prioritized due to their functional singularity (e.g., the scarlet macaw). We also identified areas that are species poor and not generally considered noteworthy for their parrot fauna, but that contain a fauna that is functionally singular (e.g., Chile). Together, these metrics broaden the criteria used for conservation prioritization.
The heterogeneous effect of oil discoveries on democracy
Authors: Masi Tania , Ricciuti Roberto
Published: May 2019

This paper evaluates the existence of a resource curse on political regimes using the Synthetic Control Method. Focusing on 12 countries, we compare their democracy level with the weighted democracy level of countries that have not experienced oil shocks and have similar pre‐event characteristics. We find that the exogenous variation in oil endowment does not have the same effect on all countries. In most cases, the event has a negative effect in the long run, but countries with a pre‐existing high level of democracy are not negatively affected.
Evolution and containment of transmissible recombinant vector vaccines
Authors: Nuismer Scott L. , Basinski Andrew , Bull James J.
Published: May 2019

Transmissible vaccines offer a revolutionary approach for controlling infectious disease and may provide one of the few feasible methods for eliminating pathogens from inaccessible wildlife populations. Current efforts to develop transmissible vaccines use recombinant vector technology whereby pathogen antigens are engineered to be expressed from innocuous infectious viral vectors. The resulting vaccines can transmit from host to host, amplifying the number of vaccine‐protected individuals beyond those initially vaccinated directly through parenteral inoculation. One main engineering challenge is the potential for natural selection to favor vaccine mutants that eliminate or reduce expression of antigenic inserts, resulting in immunogenic decay of the vaccine over time. Here, we study a mathematical model of vector mutation whereby continuous elimination of the antigenic insert results in reversion of the vaccine back into the insert‐free vector. We use this model to quantify the maximum allowable rate of reversion that can be tolerated for a transmissible vaccine to maintain a critical threshold level of immunogenicity against a target pathogen. Our results demonstrate that even for transmissible vaccines where reversion is frequent, performance will often substantially exceed that of conventional, directly administered vaccines. Further, our results demonstrate the feasibility of designing transmissible vaccines that yield desired levels of immunogenicity, yet degrade at a rate sufficient for persistence of the recombinant vaccine within the environment to be minimized.
Expression analysis of PD‐1 and Tim‐3 immune checkpoint receptors in patients with vitiligo; positive association with disease activity
Authors: Rahimi Ali , Hossein‐Nataj Hadi , Hajheydari Zohreh , Aryanian Zeinab , Shayannia Asghar , Ajami Abolghasem , Asgarian‐Omran Hossein
Published: May 2019

The contribution of immune checkpoint receptors in the immunopathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases has been addressed in previous reports. In this study,  the expression profile of T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin‐domain containing‐3 (Tim‐3) and programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) checkpoint molecules was investigated in CD8+ T cells of Vitiligo patients. The association of Tim‐3 and PD‐1 expression with disease activity was also explored. The frequency of Tim‐3+/PD‐1+/CD8+ T cells in 30 patients with vitiligo and 30 sex‐ and age‐matched controls was determined by flow cytometry. CD8+ T cells were then positively isolated by magnetic beads, and the mRNA expression of PD‐1 and Tim‐3 was determined by TaqMan‐based real‐time PCR. To measure the cytokines production, PBMCs were stimulated with PMA/ionomycin and concentrations of IL‐4, IFN‐γ and TNF‐α were measured in culture supernatants by ELISA. Disease activity of patients with vitiligo was determined using the Vitiligo Area Severity Index. Patients with vitiligo have significantly shown more expression of Tim‐3 and PD‐1 on their CD8+ T cells compared with controls. Expression analysis of Tim‐3 mRNA, but not PD‐1, confirmed the results obtained from flow cytometry. While the production levels of TNF‐α and IFN‐γ were found higher by patients with vitiligo, IL‐4 production was lower in patients compared with controls. A direct association was observed between the Tim‐3 and PD‐1 expression and also the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines with disease activity of patients with vitiligo. Our results indicate that Tim‐3 and PD‐1 are involved in immune dysregulation mechanisms of CD8+ T cells in vitiligo and may introduce as potential biomarkers for disease progression and targeted immunotherapy.
Novel lineage‐specific transmembrane β‐barrel proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum of Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Santos Herbert J. , Imai Kenichiro , Makiuchi Takashi , Tomii Kentaro , Horton Paul , Nozawa Akira , Okada Kenta , Tozawa Yuzuru , Nozaki Tomoyoshi
Published: May 2019

β‐barrel outer membrane proteins (BOMPs) are essential components of outer membranes of Gram‐negative bacteria and endosymbiotic organelles, usually involved in the transport of proteins and substrates across the membrane. Based on the analysis of our in silico BOMP predictor data for the Entamoeba histolytica genome, we detected a new transmembrane β‐barrel domain‐containing protein, EHI_192610. Sequence analysis revealed that this protein is unique to Entamoeba species, and it exclusively clusters with a homolog, EHI_099780, which is similarly lineage specific. Both proteins possess an N‐terminal signal peptide sequence as well as multiple repeats that contain dyad hydrophobic periodicities. Data from immunofluorescence assay of trophozoites expressing the respective candidates showed the absence of colocalization with mitosomal marker, and interestingly demonstrated partial colocalization with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteins instead. Integration to organellar membrane was supported by carbonate fractionation assay and immunoelectron microscopy. CD analysis of reconstituted proteoliposomes containing EHI_192610 showed a spectrum demonstrating a predominant β‐sheet structure, suggesting that this protein is β‐strand rich. Furthermore, the presence of repeat regions with predicted transmembrane β‐strand pairs in both EHI_192610 and EHI_099780, is consistent with the hypothesis that BOMPs originated from the amplification of ββ‐hairpin modules, suggesting that the two Entamoeba‐specific proteins are novel β‐barrels, intriguingly localized partially to the ER membrane.
Severity of obstructive sleep apnea is associated with the nocturnal fluctuation of pulse rate, but not with that of blood pressure, in older hypertensive patients receiving calcium channel blockers
Authors: Nozato Satoko , Yamamoto Koichi , Nozato Yoichi , Akasaka Hiroshi , Hongyo Kazuhiro , Takeda Masao , Takami Yoichi , Takeya Yasushi , Sugimoto Ken , Ito Norihisa , Rakugi Hiromi
Published: May 2019

Aim

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased variability in nocturnal blood pressure (BP). Calcium channel blockers (CCB) are superior to other classes of antihypertensives in decreasing BP variability. We investigated whether OSA severity is associated with nocturnal BP variability in older hypertensive patients treated with CCB.

Methods

We measured home systolic and diastolic BP and pulse rate (PR) automatically during sleep at an interval of an hour once a week using an electronic sphygmomanometer in 29 hypertensive patients (aged ≥65 years) receiving CCB. We calculated the coefficient of variation (CV) from four consecutive measurements. All patients underwent a home‐based portable sleep study.

Results

We found no difference in PR, BP or CV of BP between the patients with no‐to‐mild OSA and with moderate‐to‐severe OSA, categorized by the respiratory disturbance index (RDI) and 3% oxygen desaturation index (ODI). The CV of PR in patients with moderate‐to‐severe OSA was higher than the patients with no‐to‐mild OSA categorized by 3% ODI (P = 0.01). Body mass index was correlated with RDI and 3% ODI (r = 0.56 and 0.43, respectively). The CV of BP did not correlate to RDI or 3% ODI. The CV of PR was positively correlated both with RDI and with 3% ODI (r = 0.41 and 0.42, respectively).

Conclusions

The severity of OSA was associated with PR variability, but not with BP variability, in older patients receiving CCB. Our results suggest the need for future studies to determine whether CCB can suppress the influence of OSA on BP fluctuation during sleep. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 604–610.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of 12‐month low‐dose factor VIII tertiary prophylaxis vs on‐demand treatment in severe haemophilia A children
Authors: Chozie Novie A. , Primacakti Fitri , Gatot Djajadiman , Setiabudhy Rahajuningsih D. , Tulaar Angela B. M. , Prasetyo Marcel
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Prophylaxis has commonly become standard treatment for severe haemophilia patients. The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) recommends low‐dose prophylaxis in countries with resource constraints.

Objective

To determine efficacy and safety of low‐dose factor VIII (FVIII) tertiary prophylaxis compared to on‐demand treatment in severe haemophilia A children in Indonesia.

Methods

Eligible patients were randomly assigned to prophylaxis and on‐demand groups. Patients in the prophylaxis group received infusion of FVIII 10 IU/kg body weight, two times per week. Primary outcomes were the numbers of joint bleeding and total bleeding episodes; secondary outcomes were evidence of FVIII inhibitor, Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and Hemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection Ultrasound (HEAD‐US) score. Patients were monitored for 12 months.

Results

Fifty patients, all with tertiary prophylaxis, 4‐18 years of age, were randomized into prophylaxis (n = 25) and on‐demand (n = 25) groups. The mean follow‐up time was 12.8 ± 0.86 vs 12.3 ± 0.54 months, respectively. Numbers of total and joint bleeding episodes were significantly lower in the prophylaxis group (P < 0.001, 95% CI −24.6;−10.7 andP < 0.001, 95% CI −14;−3, respectively).The prophylaxis group showed improvement of joint function (P = 0.004; CI 95% −3;−0.5); on the contrary, we found deterioration in the on‐demand group (P = 0.001; CI 95% 1;3). HEAD‐US scores showed improvement at month 6 in the prophylaxis group, but there was no significant difference between groups at month 12.

Conclusion

Low‐dose FVIII tertiary prophylaxis was effective in reducing joint bleeding episodes and improvement of HJHS compared to on‐demand FVIII treatment in severe haemophilia A children.
Similarity Within (Ultimate) Dissimilarity: Burrell and Milbank on the Interplay of Positive and Negative Theology
Authors: Tromans Oliver
Published: May 2019

This article examines the influential analogical schemas of David Burrell and John Milbank. While Milbank emphasises that analogy must be understood as primarily an ontological doctrine, much of Burrell’s work focuses on semantic rather than ontological issues. Milbank has strongly criticised one of Burrell’s early books for construing Aquinas too much in terms of the agnosticism of Kant. It is demonstrated, however, that Burrell is increasingly led in his reading of Aquinas to acknowledge the necessity of a similitude of participation between creatures and God. Analysis of the disagreement between Burrell and Milbank shows one of the reasons why the via analogia matters. We need not privilege the apophatic over the cataphatic, nor the cataphatic over the apophatic. The way of analogy transcends this unpalatable either/or. As relying on the proper exercises, on practical know‐how, analogy allows theology a powerful pedagogical tool to govern God‐talk, while yet affirming the continual revelation and discovery of something ever‐greater.
Use of inline near‐infrared spectroscopy to predict the viscosity of shampoo using multivariate analysis
Authors: Haroon K. , Arafeh A. , Martin P. , Rodgers T. , Mendoza Ć. , Baker M.
Published: May 2019

Objective

In the personal care industry, viscosity is a critical quality attribute that influences product quality and process economics. Like many industrial liquids, personal care liquids are complex non‐Newtonian liquids made up of aqueous surfactant systems whose viscosity depends on the build‐up of micellar networks. Measuring the viscosity of complex liquids offline is easily done using benchtop rheometers and viscometers. The challenge lies in measuring the viscosity of personal care liquids online during manufacturing. Being able to track the viscosity of such products through their manufacturing cycle will not only allow for better process control but also more enhanced quality control. Therefore, the aim of this work was to investigate how proxy measurements using inline near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in transmission mode can be used to predict the viscosity of shampoo. NIR spectroscopy has not, to the best our knowledge, been used to predict the viscosity of complex surfactant systems like shampoo and could significantly affect the way quality is monitored in a manufacturing environment.

Method

This work focuses on viscosity changes because of differences in chloride content as salt is often used to adjust viscosity. The relationship between salt content and the viscosity of shampoo is well known following the salt curve. From an industrial perspective the region of interest for the formulation studied in this work only covers a small section of this curve. Therefore, two predictive models were developed: one covering the full range of the salt curve and another focusing on the industrially applicable region.

Result

Models were produced using partial least squares (PLS) where both datasets showed some predictive ability with the concentrated region of interest showing enhanced performance [root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) – 2.32 Pa s] compared with the larger range (RMSEP – 4.44 Pa s).

Conclusion

This work provides a good starting point for developing robust predictive models for in situ viscosity measurements for shampoo manufacturing, where further work into different sources of variation and the extent of the modelling capability with regards to different formulations should be studied.
Designing novel sodium bismuth titanate lead‐free incipient perovskite for piezoactuator applications
Authors: Liu Xing , Shen Bo , Zhai Jiwei
Published: May 2019

Bismuth‐based lead‐free incipient piezoceramics have potential in piezoactuators owing to their large strain response. However, a substantial strain hysteresis and poor temperature/frequency stability heavily restrict their practical applications. Herein, we designed a compositional inhomogeneity and constructed quenched random fields to enhance the relaxor dynamics by introducing a classical relaxor material, Ba(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3, into a nonergodic material, (Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3–0.15SrTiO3. Intriguingly, we obtained a large piezoelectric coefficient of 602 pm/V and a narrow hysteresis of 32% at the x = 0.04 (BZT4) composition. The strain properties present a robust frequency (~2%, 1‐20 Hz) and temperature stability (~13%, 25‐150°C). The excellent actuating properties of BZT4 were due to a field‐induced reversible ergodic relaxor‐ferroelectric transformation, and the narrow hysteresis can be attributed to quick switching of the dynamic relaxor phase to external stimuli. The origin of the structural transition and salient strain performance was systematically investigated. This study provides a novel route for designing lead‐free incipient perovskite with a large strain, narrow hysteresis and high stability for eco‐friendly actuators.
Gene flow and genetic structure in Acacia stenophylla (Fabaceae): Effects of hydrological connectivity
Authors: Murray Bruce F. , Reid Michael A. , Capon Samantha J. , Thoms Martin , Wu Shu‐Biao
Published: May 2019

Aim

Riparian ecosystems are regarded as vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Because of their reliance on passive dispersal to migrate from areas where conditions have become unfavourable, plants are particularly susceptible. On dryland river floodplains, the species diversity of herbaceous annuals is often high while that of structurally dominant woody perennials is low. We examined gene flow genetic structure and dispersal in Acacia stenophylla, a small perennial tree widely distributed throughout river systems of inland Australia. The role of the river corridor in shaping patterns of gene flow and genetic structure is also investigated.

Location

Murray‐Darling Basin, south eastern Australia

Methods

A total of 127 individuals, from 12 subpopulations located on seven rivers were genotyped at 13 microsatellite loci. Several population and landscape genetic tools were applied to the microsatellite data to evaluate spatial patterns of gene flow and genetic structure and make inferences regarding possible modes of dispersal.

Results

High gene flow and weak genetic structure was identified for the 12 subpopulations of A. stenophylla sampled, a surprising result given large distances between subpopulations. Pairwise genetic distance between subpopulations was low to moderate and could largely be explained (R2 = 0.68) by two variables: distance along the river and the proportion of no flow days. structure analysis revealed two genetic clusters. Subpopulations located on the Darling and Lower Balonne rivers were dominated by cluster one while subpopulations from the Warrego and Paroo rivers showed largely mixed ancestry with individuals descending from both clusters one and two.

Main Conclusions

These results indicate that the river corridor facilitates extensive gene flow between subpopulations of A. stenophylla in this system. Hydrochory appears to be the dominant process; however, upstream movements of propagules most probably via animal movement are sufficient to negate effects expected under unidirectional dispersal.
Permanent pacing and conduction recovery in patients undergoing cardiac surgery for active infective endocarditis in an Australian Tertiary Center
Authors: Al‐Kaisey Ahmed M. , Chandra Nikhil , Ha Francis J. , Al‐Kaisey Yasir M. , Vasanthakumar Sheran , Koshy Anoop N. , Anderson Robert D. , Ord Michelle , Srivastava Piyush M. , O'Donnell David , Lim Han S. , Matalanis George , Teh Andrew W.
Published: May 2019

Background

Postoperative heart block is common among patients undergoing surgery for infective endocarditis (IE). Limited data exists allowing cardiologists to predict who will require permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation postoperatively. We aimed to determine the rate of postoperative PPM insertion, predictors for postoperative PPM, and describe PPM utilization and rates of device‐related infection during follow‐up.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of 191 consecutive patients from a single institution who underwent cardiac surgery for IE between 2001 and 2017. Preoperative and operative predictors for postoperative PPM were evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The rate of postoperative PPM implantation was 11% (17/154). The PPM group had more preoperative prolonged PR interval alone (33% vs 12%; P = .03), coexistent prolonged PR and QRS durations (13% vs 2%; P = .01), infection beyond the valve leaflets (82% vs 41%; P = .001), aortic root debridement (65% vs 23%; P = <.001), patch repair (47% vs 20%; P = .01), postoperative prolonged PR interval (50% vs 24%; P = .01), and prolonged QRS duration (47% vs 15%; P = .001). On multivariate analysis, infection beyond the valve leaflets emerged as an independent predictor for postoperative PPM (odds ratio, 1.94, 95% confidence interval, 1.14‐3.28; P = .014). A reduction in PPM utilization was observed in five patients while eight patients continued to show significant ventricular pacing with no underlying rhythm at 12 months. There were no device‐related infections.

Conclusion

Postoperative PPM was required in 11% of patients undergoing surgery for IE over a 16‐year period. Infection beyond the valve leaflet was an independent predictor for postoperative PPM insertion.
Deletion of pancreatic β‐cell adenosine kinase improves glucose homeostasis in young mice and ameliorates streptozotocin‐induced hyperglycaemia
Authors: Ahmed Abdalhamid Osman Makawi , Sun Yu‐Jing , Li Rui‐Jia , Lin Hui , Zeng Dong‐Mei , Chen Xin‐Yu , He Dongfang , Feng Hui‐Wei , Yang Zhao , Wang Jin , Wu Chaodong , Cui Min , Sun Jin‐Peng , Huo Yuqing , Yu Xiao
Published: May 2019

Severe reduction in the β‐cell number (collectively known as the β‐cell mass) contributes to the development of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Recent pharmacological studies have suggested that increased pancreatic β‐cell proliferation could be due to specific inhibition of adenosine kinase (ADK). However, genetic evidence for the function of pancreatic β‐cell ADK under physiological conditions or in a pathological context is still lacking. In this study, we crossed mice carrying LoxP‐flanked Adk gene with Ins2‐Cre mice to acquire pancreatic β ‐cell ADK deficiency (Ins2‐Cre±Adkfl/fl) mice. Our results revealed that Ins2‐Cre+/‐Adkfl/fl mice showed improved glucose metabolism and β‐cell mass in younger mice, but showed normal activity in adult mice. Moreover, Ins2‐Cre±Adkfl/fl mice were more resistant to streptozotocin (STZ) induced hyperglycaemia and pancreatic β‐cell damage in adult mice. In conclusion, we found that ADK negatively regulates β‐cell replication in young mice as well as under pathological conditions, such as STZ induced pancreatic β‐cell damage. Our study provided genetic evidence that specific inhibition of pancreatic β‐cell ADK has potential for anti‐diabetic therapy.
LncRNA‐SULT1C2A regulates Foxo4 in congenital scoliosis by targeting rno‐miR‐466c‐5p through PI3K‐ATK signalling
Authors: Chen Chong , Tan Haining , Bi Jiaqi , Li Lin , Rong Tianhua , Lin Youxi , Sun Peiyu , Liang Jinqian , Jiao Yang , Li Zheng , Sun Liang , Shen Jianxiong
Published: May 2019

Congenital scoliosis (CS) is the result of anomalous vertebrae development, but the pathogenesis of CS remains unclear. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in embryo development, but their role in CS remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the role and mechanisms of a specific lncRNA, SULT1C2A, in somitogenesis in a rat model of vitamin A deficiency (VAD)‐induced CS. Bioinformatics analysis and quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) indicated that SULT1C2A expression was down‐regulated in VAD group, accompanied by increased expression of rno‐miR‐466c‐5p but decreased expression of Foxo4 and somitogenesis‐related genes such as Pax1, Nkx3‐2 and Sox9 on gestational day (GD) 9. Luciferase reporter and small interfering RNA (siRNA) assays showed that SULT1C2A functioned as a competing endogenous RNA to inhibit rno‐miR‐466c‐5p expression by direct binding, and rno‐miR‐466c‐5p inhibited Foxo4 expression by binding to its 3′ untranslated region (UTR). The spatiotemporal expression of SULT1C2A, rno‐miR‐466c‐5p and Foxo4 axis was dynamically altered on GDs 3, 8, 11, 15 and 21 as detected by qRT‐PCR and northern blot analyses, with parallel changes in Protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation and PI3K expression. Taken together, our findings indicate that SULT1C2A enhanced Foxo4 expression by negatively modulating rno‐miR‐466c‐5p expression via the PI3K‐ATK signalling pathway in the rat model of VAD‐CS. Thus, SULT1C2A may be a potential target for treating CS.
Long‐term effect of NUDT15 R139C on hematologic indices in inflammatory bowel disease patients treated with thiopurine
Authors: Akiyama Shintaro , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Fukuda Kyoko , Hamada Shunsuke , Shimizu Mikiko , Nanki Kosaku , Mizuno Shinta , Kiyohara Hiroki , Arai Mari , Sugimoto Shinya , Iwao Yasushi , Ogata Haruhiko , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Naganuma Makoto , Motobayashi Maiko , Suzuki Kohei , Takenaka Kento , Fujii Toshimitsu , Saito Eiko , Nagahori Masakazu , Ohtsuka Kazuo , Mochizuki Mayumi , Watanabe Mamoru , Hashiguchi Masayuki , Kanai Takanori
Published: May 2019

Background and Aim

A missense variant of the nucleoside diphosphate‐linked moiety X‐type motif 15 (NUDT15) gene (R139C) predisposes Asian patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to thiopurine‐induced leukopenia. This study evaluates the long‐term effect of NUDT15 R139C heterozygosity on hematological parameters during thiopurine administration.

Methods

We enrolled 83 Japanese IBD patients who were on anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐α agents and had used thiopurine. NUDT15 R139C was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction. We retrospectively reviewed patient clinical charts to collect data on white blood cell (WBC) count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hemoglobin, and platelet count during the 24 months following thiopurine initiation.

Results

The included patients had either Crohn's disease (54; 65.1%) or ulcerative colitis (29; 34.9%). Genotyping of NUDT15 R139C identified 62 patients (74.7%) of genotype C/C and 21 (25.3%) of genotype C/T. The median dose of thiopurine was lower in the C/T group than in the C/C group after starting thiopurine. At 6 months, the mean WBC count of the C/T group became significantly lower than that of the C/C group (P = 0.008) and remained lower through the 24 months. The C/T group developed grade 2–4 leukopenia by 6 months, which persisted through 12–24 months. The mean MCV in the C/T group became higher than that of the C/C group after 3 months.

Conclusions

NUDT15 R139C heterozygosity affected the WBC count and MCV for 24 months after thiopurine administration. Our results indicate that careful monitoring of leukopenia and dose adjustment are necessary throughout treatment in IBD patients heterozygous for the NUDT15 R139C.
Obstetrical prognosis of patients who underwent vaginal radical trachelectomy during pregnancy
Authors: Umemoto Mina , Ishioka Shinichi , Mizugaki Yuko , Fujibe Yuya , Mariya Tasuku , Kawamata Akari , Mizuuchi Masahito , Morishita Miyuki , Baba Tsuyoshi , Saito Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2019

Aim

Radical trachelectomy (RT) with pelvic lymphadenectomy has become an option for young patients with early invasive uterine cervical cancer who decide to maintain their fertility. However, this operative method entails a high risk for the following pregnancy due to its radicality. Therefore, RT for pregnant patients can be a challenge both for gynecologic oncologists and obstetricians.

Methods

We have performed vaginal RT for five pregnant patients with uterine cervical cancer stage 1B1 according to the method of Dargent et al. The operations were performed between 16 and 26 weeks of pregnancy, and the patients were followed up carefully according to the follow‐up methods we reported previously.

Results

Vaginal RT was performed for five patients without any troubles. Four of the patients continued their pregnancies until almost 34 weeks or longer under our previously published follow‐up schedule. The pregnancy of one patient was terminated at 26 weeks due to recurrence of the cancer.

Conclusion

Expansion of vaginal RT for pregnant patients with uterine cervical cancer could be a practical option for pregnant patients with early invasive uterine cervical cancer.
Mechanical fatigue behaviour of different lengths screw‐retained restorations connected to two designs prosthetic connection level
Authors: Pérez León Patricia , Bartolomé José F. , Lombardía Carlos , Pradíes Guillermo
Published: May 2019

The aim of this work is to compare the mechanical fatigue behaviour of different crown heights of single crown implant restorations made over two different internal hexagonal titanium dental implant connection levels. Two different groups of internal hexagonal connection were studied: (a) TL group (N = 26) included implants with a transmucosal connection (12.2 mm height and 4.8 mm width) and (b) BL group (N = 26) composed by implants at a bone level connection (10 mm height and 3.8 mm width). Two subgroups (N = 13) were established for each connection level according to crown heights (TL10 = 10 mm, TL15 = 15 mm, BL12 = 12 mm, BL17 = 17 mm). Dynamic load tests were carried out according to ISO Norm 14801. Failed samples and fracture surfaces were analysed with an optical and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The fatigue limit and the fatigue strength degradation (fatigue strength exponent) decreases with increasing crown height (5 mm) in both groups of internal hexagonal titanium dental implant connection levels. Consequently, the mechanical integrity of internal hexagonal dental implants varies with the height of the crown. An increase of 5 millimetres in the crown height appears to significantly decrease the fatigue life of both types of dental implants.
A novel internal abdominal oblique muscle flap to close a major abdominal wall defect
Authors: Cronin A. , Hall J. L.
Published: May 2019

This report describes a novel technique for abdominal wall reconstruction using an internal abdominal oblique muscle flap in an Australian kelpie. En bloc resection of a chondrosarcoma and biopsy scar centred on the 13th rib was performed to include full thickness thoracic wall (12th rib, extending caudally) and lateral abdominal wall (including the vascular pedicle of the external abdominal oblique muscle). The diaphragm was advanced to close the thorax. A flap using the caudal internal abdominal oblique muscle with the base dorsally was elevated and rotated 90° to fill the dorsal defect. The ventral defect was closed using the composite ventral abdominal muscles. The skin was closed primarily. The dog developed a self‐resolving seroma. Twelve months postoperatively, the dog was able to engage in agility competitions. A viable muscle flap using the internal abdominal oblique muscle provides a useful alternative to previously described techniques for autogenous closure of a large abdominal wall wound.
Geophysical characterization of the Daskop granophyre dyke and surrounding host rocks, Vredefort impact structure, South Africa
Authors: Fourie F. D. , Huber M. S. , Kovaleva E.
Published: May 2019

Granophyre dykes in the central part of the Vredefort impact structure are believed to be the remnants of the impact melt sheet, which intruded downwards along the fractures in the crater floor. Little is known about their original penetration depth, dip, structural relationships with the host rocks, and their general geophysical characteristics. This information is critical to understand the emplacement history of the granophyre dykes, as it relates to the formation and modification of large impact structures. We conducted magnetic and resistivity surveys across the Daskop granophyre dyke (DGD), one of the impact melt dykes in the structure's core. The magnetic survey revealed that the DGD gives a strong magnetic response at positions where the dyke outcrop exceeds the surface topography, but a very weak response where the outcrop is nearly at the same elevation as the surrounding topography. The magnetic anomaly is thus predominantly due to the outcrop protruding above ground level, suggesting a limited volume of dyke material in the subsurface and a small penetration depth. The resistivity survey performed on two profiles, set perpendicularly across the DGD, indicated a shallow penetration depth (<3 m), consistent with the magnetic interpretation. Thus, our geophysical study demonstrates that the DGD is currently at the very bottom of its original emplacement. This may either be an erosional coincidence, or it may be controlled by a fundamental process of impact cratering. Further studies are warranted to determine if other granophyre dykes at Vredefort are similarly at their lowermost terminations.
Psychometric properties of End‐of‐Life Caregiving Experience Appraisal Scale: Iranian critical care nurses
Authors: Nia Hamid S. , Goudarzian Amir H. , Shahrokhi Akram , Boyle Christopher , Wilson Michael S. J. , Hosseinigolafshani Seyedeh Z.
Published: May 2019

Background

Health care providers should be able to provide good quality end‐of‐life care. A tool to evaluate the positive and negative consequences of caring for dying patients is warranted.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the End‐of‐Life Caregiving Experience Appraisal Scale (EOLCAS).

Methods

This research was conducted in two phases. Phase I: The World Health Organization Protocol of forward‐backward translation and an expert panel in order to determine face and content validity. Phase II: Survey development with 310 nurses who worked in critical care units, construct validity (construct, convergent and divergent validity), internal consistency (average inter‐item correlation, Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega) and construct reliability were evaluated.

Results

The exploratory factor analysis showed that the present scale (Persian version) has four factors: Negative physical‐emotional and social consequences, transcendental communication, information deficits and future rumination, which explained 83.92% of the overall extracted variance. Convergent and divergent validity were confirmed for all factors. The internal consistency and construct reliability were acceptable.

Conclusion

The scale has a multidimensional concept that is sufficiently reliable and the use of the scale would be helpful in measuring consequences of caring for dying patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

This scale makes a significant contribution in that it helps in the recognition of positive and negative consequences of critical care nurses' caring for dying patients.
Aphyllon castilloi sp. nov. (Orobanchaceae) from Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Francisco‐Gutiérrez Antonio , Cházaro‐Basáñez Miguel , Espejo‐Serna Adolfo , García‐Franco José , Torres‐Cantú Gerardo
Published: May 2019

Aphyllon castilloi Franc.‐Gut., Cházaro & Espejo (Orobanchaceae), a new species discovered in central Veracruz, Mexico is herein described, illustrated and compared with other Aphyllon species recorded from Mexico. The new species inhabits tropical semideciduous forest, a novel ecosystem for Aphyllon species native to North America, in contrast to most collections from Mexico, which are from warm sandy deserts. In addition, it parasitizes Simsia foetida (Asteraceae: Heliantheae). As far as known, the distribution of the new species is very restricted.
Stratifying risk of recurrence of atrial fibrillation following balloon cryoablation using the CAAP‐AF risk scoring system
Authors: Hamilton Russell D. , Cooper Barry , Meyers Jason D.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To determine if the CAAP‐AF tool could be applied to a cohort of patients in the United States undergoing cryoablation or AF utilizing second‐generation cryoballoons.

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major source of morbidity and expense, with over 33 million individuals affected worldwide and over 450 000 hospitalizations annually in the United States. Catheter ablation for AF is a class I indication for patients with symptomatic AF. The ability to predict postablation recurrence would have an enormous impact on both patient outcomes and cost to the health care system.

Methods

Our study was an observational, single‐center retrospective study to evaluate the utility of the CAAP‐AF risk scoring system in predicting recurrence of AF following second‐generation balloon cryoablation for AF.

Results

There were a total of 235 patients. From the initial cohort, 30.2% (71) had a recurrence of AF within 1 year of the cryoablation procedure. There was a statistically significant increase in mean age, left atrial diameter, left atrial volume index, CHADS2, CHADS2‐VASc, and number of antiarrhythmics failed in the group that had recurrence of AF. There was also a statistically significant increase in the CAAP‐AF score in patients who had recurrence of AF.

Conclusions

The CAAP‐AF score predicted the freedom from AF 1 year following cryoablation for AF. The CAAP‐AF score can aid in selecting patients most likely to benefit from cryoablation, which includes patients with a low CAAP‐AF score, as they are most likely to remain AF free at 1 year.
Host suitability of Solanum torvum cultivars to Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica and population dynamics
Authors: García‐Mendívil H. A. , Escudero N. , Sorribas F. J.
Published: May 2019

Several experiments were carried out to assess the performance of commercial Solanum torvum cultivars against the root knot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica in Spain. The response of S. torvum rootstock cultivars Brutus, Espina, Salutamu and Torpedo against M. incognita and Mi‐1.2 (a)virulent M. javanica isolates was determined in pot experiments, and of ‘Brutus’ to an N‐virulent isolate of M. incognita, compared with that of the eggplant S. melongena ‘Cristal’. The relationship between the initial and final population densities of M. javanica on ungrafted and grafted ‘Cristal’ onto the S. torvum ‘Brutus’ was assessed, together with the effect on dry shoot biomass. Finally, the population growth rate and the resistance level of the four S. torvum cultivars against M. incognita was assessed under plastic greenhouse conditions in two cropping seasons. All S. torvum rootstocks responded as resistant to the M. incognita isolates and from highly resistant to susceptible against M. javanica isolates. The maximum multiplication rates of M. javanica on the ungrafted or grafted eggplant were 270 and 49, respectively, and the equilibrium densities were 1318 and 2056 eggs and J2 per 100 cm3 soil, respectively. The tolerance of the ungrafted eggplant was 10.9 J2 per 100 cm3 soil, and the minimum relative dry shoot biomass was 0.76. The population growth rate of M. incognita on eggplant cv. Cristal differed from that of the S. torvum cultivars in both cropping seasons. These results suggest that S. torvum is a valuable rootstock for managing the two Meloidogyne species irrespective of the (a)virulence status.
A Review of Recent Advances in Benchmark Dose Methodology
Authors: Jensen Signe M. , Kluxen Felix M. , Ritz Christian
Published: May 2019

In this review, recent methodological developments for the benchmark dose (BMD) methodology are summarized. Specifically, we introduce the advances for the main steps in BMD derivation: selecting the procedure for defining a BMD from a predefined benchmark response (BMR), setting a BMR, selecting a dose–response model, and estimating the corresponding BMD lower limit (BMDL). Although the last decade has shown major progress in the development of BMD methodology, there is still room for improvement. Remaining challenges are the implementation of new statistical methods in user‐friendly software and the lack of consensus about how to derive the BMDL.
Altered movement strategies during jump landing/cutting in patients with chronic ankle instability
Authors: Kim Hyunsoo , Son Seong Jun , Seeley Matthew Kirk , Hopkins Jon Ty
Published: May 2019

Centrally mediated changes in sensorimotor function have been reported in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). However, little is known regarding supraspinal/spinal adaptations during lower‐extremity dynamic movement during a multiplanar, single‐leg landing/cutting task. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of CAI on landing/cutting neuromechanics, including lower‐extremity kinematic, electromyography (EMG) activation, and ground reaction force (GRF) characteristics. One hundred CAI patients and 100 matched healthy controls performed five trials of a jump landing/cutting task. Sagittal‐ and frontal‐plane ankle, knee and hip kinematics, EMG activation in eight lower‐extremity muscles, and 3D GRF were collected during jump landing/cutting. Functional analyses of variance (FANOVA) were used to evaluate between‐group differences for dependent variables throughout the entire ground contact of the task. Relative to the control group, the CAI group revealed (a) reduced dorsiflexion, increased knee and hip flexion angles, (b) increased inversion and hip adduction angles, (c) increased EMG activation of medial gastrocnemius, peroneus longus, adductor longus, vastus lateralis, gluteus medius, and gluteus maximus, and (d) increased posterior and vertical GRF during initial landing, and reduced medial, posterior, and vertical GRF during mid‐landing and mid‐cutting. CAI patients demonstrated alterations in landing/cutting movement strategies as demonstrated by a higher susceptibility of foot placement for lateral ankle sprains, and more flexed positions of the knee and hip with higher EMG activation of knee and hip extensors to modulate GRF to compensate for the unstable ankle. This apparent compensation may be due to mechanical (limited dorsiflexion angle) and/or sensorimotor deficits in the ankle.
High volume injection with and without corticosteroid in chronic midportion achilles tendinopathy
Authors: Boesen Anders P. , Langberg Henning , Hansen Rudi , Malliaras Peter , Boesen Morten I.
Published: May 2019

Background

High volume injection (HVI) shows promising results in the treatment of chronic midportion Achilles tendinopathy (AT). HVI consists of a large volume of saline with a small amount of corticosteroid and local anesthetic.

Objective

To determine the effect of corticosteroid in HVI in AT.

Methods

A total of 28 men (18‐59 years) with chronic (>3 months) AT were included in a double‐blinded RCT and followed for 24 weeks. All performed eccentric training and randomized to either (a) HVI injection with corticosteroid or (b) HVI injection without corticosteroid. Outcomes included self‐reported function (VISA‐A score) and pain (VAS score) and ultrasound imaging (tendon thickness, Doppler flow).

Results

VISA‐A and VAS score improved in both groups at all time‐points (P < 0.05). VISA‐A improvement was significantly greater in HVI with corticosteroid (mean ± SEM; 6‐weeks = 31 ± 3 points; 12‐weeks = 32 ± 5 points) vs HVI without corticosteroid (6 weeks = 14 ± 3; 12‐weeks = 17 ± 3) at 6 and 12 weeks (P < 0.05), but not at 24 weeks. Decrease in VAS scores was significantly greater in HVI with corticosteroid (6 weeks = 55 ± 3 mm; 12 weeks = 53 ± 5 mm) vs HVI without corticosteroid (6 weeks = 16 ± 3 mm; 12 weeks = 25 ± 5 mm) at 6 and 12 weeks (P < 0.05) but not at 24 weeks. Tendon thickness decreased significantly in both groups at all time‐points (P < 0.05), but more in the HVI with corticosteroid vs HVI without corticosteroid at 6 and 12 weeks (P < 0.05) but not at 24 weeks.

Conclusion

High volume injection with or without corticosteroid in combination with eccentric training seems effective in AT. HVI with corticosteroid showed a better short‐term improvement than HVI without corticosteroid indicating a short‐term effect of corticosteroid in HVI treatment of AT.
Day clinic vs. hospital care of pneumonia and severe malnutrition in children under five: a randomised trial
Authors: Ashraf Hasan , Alam Nur H. , Sultana Marufa , Jahan Selina A. , Begum Nurshad , Farzana Sharmin , Chisti Mohammod J. , Kamal Mohiuddin , Shamsuzzaman Abu , Ahmed Tahmeed , Khan Jahangir A. M. , Fuchs George J. , Duke Trevor , Gyr Niklaus
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical outcomes and costs of managing pneumonia and severe malnutrition in a day clinic (DC) management model (outpatient) vs. hospital care (inpatient).

Methods

Randomised clinical trial where children aged 2 months to 5 years with pneumonia and severe malnutrition were randomly allocated to DC or inpatient hospital care. We used block randomisation of variable length from 8 to 20 and produced computer‐generated random numbers that were assigned to one of the two interventions. Successful management was defined as resolution of clinical signs of pneumonia and being discharged from the model of care (DC or hospital) without need for referral to a hospital (DC), or referral to another hospital. All the children in both DC and hospital received intramuscular ceftriaxone, daily nutrition support and micronutrients.

Results

Four hundred and seventy children were randomly assigned to either DC or hospital care. Successful management was achieved for 184 of 235 (78.3%) by DC alone, vs. 201 of 235 (85.5%) by hospital inpatient care [RR (95% CI) = 0.79 (0.65–0.97), P = 0.02]. During 6 months of follow‐up, 30/235 (12.8%) in the DC group and 36/235 (15.3%) required readmission to hospital in the hospital care group [RR (95% CI) = 0.89 (0.67–1.18), P = 0.21]. The average overall healthcare and societal cost was 34% lower in DC (US$ 188 ± 11.7) than in hospital (US$ 285 ± 13.6) (P < 0.001), and costs for households were 33% lower.

Conclusions

There was a 7% greater probability of successful management of pneumonia and severe malnutrition when inpatient hospital care rather than the outpatient day clinic care was the initial method of care. However, where timely referral mechanisms were in place, 94% of children with pneumonia and severe malnutrition were successfully managed initially in a day clinic, and costs were substantially lower than with hospital admission.