bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into the processes that drive the evolution of drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Nguyen Quang Huy , Contamin Lucie , Nguyen Thi Van Anh , Bañuls Anne‐Laure
Published: June 2018

At present, the successful transmission of drug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis, including multidrug‐resistant (MDR) and extensively drug‐resistant (XDR) strains, in human populations, threatens tuberculosis control worldwide. Differently from many other bacteria, M. tuberculosis drug resistance is acquired mainly through mutations in specific drug resistance‐associated genes. The panel of mutations is highly diverse, but depends on the affected gene and M. tuberculosis genetic background. The variety of genetic profiles observed in drug‐resistant clinical isolates underlines different evolutionary trajectories towards multiple drug resistance, although some mutation patterns are prominent. This review discusses the intrinsic processes that may influence drug resistance evolution in M. tuberculosis, such as mutation rate, drug resistance‐associated mutations, fitness cost, compensatory mutations and epistasis. This knowledge should help to better predict the risk of emergence of highly resistant M. tuberculosis strains and to develop new tools and strategies to limit the development and spread of MDR and XDR strains.
Tips from the Experts on Conducting and Reviewing Qualitative Research
Authors: DeVaney Sharon A. , Spangler Alice , Lee Young‐A , Delgadillo Lucy
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this article was to describe the characteristics of qualitative studies, explain the various types of qualitative studies, and indicate which data collection method fits which type of qualitative study. Also, the authors who are all Associate Editors of the Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal have provided their ideas on conducting reviews of qualitative studies. This article is an extension of the panel that was presented at the Annual Conference of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences in June 2018.
Pathological risk factors for higher clinical stage in testicular seminomas
Authors: Trevino Karen E , Esmaeili‐Shandiz Alaleh , Saeed Omer , Xu Huiping , Ulbright Thomas M , Idrees Muhammad T
Published: June 2018

Aims

Testicular seminomas require accurate staging for effective management. Twenty per cent are metastatic at presentation, while 80% are clinical stage I, requiring only orchiectomy and surveillance. Tumour size, rete testis invasion, hilar soft tissue invasion and lymphovascular invasion have been shown to incur a higher risk of metastasis and recurrence in clinical stage I seminomas, with little congruence between studies.

Methods and results

We reviewed 211 cases of testicular seminomas and recorded patient age, tumour size, lymphovascular invasion and rete testis, hilar soft tissue, epididymis, spermatic cord, tunica albuginea and tunica vaginalis involvement. A univariate and multivariate analysis was performed comparing clinical stage I to advanced clinical stage patients (stages II and III) in reference to these factors. We found that tumour size (P = 0.02), vascular invasion (P = 0.02) and invasion of rete testis stroma (P = 0.01), epididymis (P = 0.02), spermatic cord (P = 0.047) and hilar soft tissue (P = 0.04) were predictors of higher clinical stage at the univariate level. However, multivariate analysis showed that only tumour size and vascular invasion remained significant (P = 0.008 and 0.032, respectively). A tumour size of 4 cm was the cut‐off size found to be significant.

Conclusions

Tumour size and vascular invasion are the strongest predictors of higher clinical stage in testicular seminomas. Our univariate data suggest that rete testis and hilar soft tissue invasion relate to higher clinical stage. However, neither of these factors were found to be independent risk factors at multivariate analysis. Therefore, this study supports tumour upstaging based only upon size and vascular invasion.
PHILOSOPHICAL REFLECTIONS ON THE WAYS OF MEMORY AND HISTORY
Authors: Hutton Patrick H.
Published: June 2018

Philosopher Jeffrey Barash seeks to clarify the concept of collective memory, which has taken on wide‐ranging meanings in contemporary scholarship. Returning to the original insight of sociologist Maurice Halbwachs during the 1920s, he grounds the concept in the living social memory of the present, whose sphere is widened by its capacity to draw upon a past beyond its ken through the symbolization of its remembrance. He offers two preliminary propositions: first, there is a history to the way philosophers have contextualized collective memory through the ages; second, there is a politics in the transmission of collective memory, highly visible in the uses of memory by mass media in the contemporary age. He builds his argument around four interrelated interpretations concerning: the ever more circumscribed role attributed to collective memory in the passage from antiquity into modernity; the dependence of collective memory upon living memory; the rising power of media to mold collective memory to present purposes; and historical understanding vis‐à‐vis evocation of collective memory as oppositional ways of accessing the past. I close with commentary that places Barash's philosophical interpretation within the context of contemporary historiographical practice, with particular attention to the scholarship of French historian Pierre Nora on the French national memory, and that of German scholars Jan and Aleida Assmann on the preservation and transmission of memorable cultural legacies.
HISTORY TO THE MAX
Authors: Carr David
Published: June 2018

Steven G. Smith advocates a maximal approach to history by both historians and theorists of history, maintaining that a commitment to fullness or totality should always serve as an ideal. In my review, I try to explain what the author means by this ideal, and consider how practical such an ideal can be. He further maintains that history is mostly about shared action, and is itself an instance of shared action. I have certain reservations about this notion, though I think Smith's book deserves credit for calling attention to it.
Cinnamic acid derivatives in cosmetics: current use and future prospects
Authors: Gunia‐Krzyżak A. , Słoczyńska K. , Popiół J. , Koczurkiewicz P. , Marona H. , Pękala E.
Published: June 2018

Cinnamic acid derivatives are widely used in cosmetics and possess various functions. This group of compounds includes both naturally occurring and synthetic substances. On the basis of the Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng) and available literature, this review summarizes their functions in cosmetics, including their physicochemical and biological properties as well as reported adverse effects. A perfuming function is typical of many derivatives of cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl alcohol, dihydrocinnamyl alcohol and cinnamic acid itself; these substances are commonly used in cosmetics all over the world. Some of them show allergic and photoallergic potential, resulting in restrictions in maximum concentrations and/or a requirement to indicate the presence of some substances in the list of ingredients when their concentrations exceed certain fixed values in a cosmetic product. Another important function of cinnamic acid derivatives in cosmetics is UV protection. Ester derivatives such as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (octinoxate), isoamyl p‐methoxycinnamte (amiloxiate), octocrylene and cinoxate are used in cosmetics all over the world as UV filters. However, their maximum concentrations in cosmetic products are restricted due to their adverse effects, which include contact and a photocontact allergies, phototoxic contact dermatitis, contact dermatitis, estrogenic modulation and generation of reactive oxygen species. Other rarely utilized functions of cinnamic acid derivatives are as an antioxidant, in skin conditioning, hair conditioning, as a tonic and in antimicrobial activities. Moreover, some currently investigated natural and synthetic derivatives of cinnamic acid have shown skin lightening and anti‐ageing properties. Some of them may become new cosmetic ingredients in the future. In particular, 4‐hydroxycinnamic acid, which is currently indexed as a skin‐conditioning cosmetics ingredient, has been widely tested in vitro and in vivo as a new drug candidate for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.
Shaping ability of BioRace, ProTaper NEXT and Genius nickel‐titanium instruments in curved canals of mandibular molars: a MicroCT study
Authors: Drukteinis S. , Peciuliene V. , Dummer P. M. H. , Hupp J.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To evaluate and compare the canal shaping ability of BioRace, ProTaper NEXT and Genius engine‐driven nickel‐titanium (NiTi) file systems in extracted mandibular first molars using micro‐computed tomography (MCT).

Methodology

Sixty mesial root canals of mandibular first molars were randomly divided into three equal groups, according to the instrument system used for root canal preparation (n = 20): BioRace (BR), ProTaper NEXT (PTN) or Genius (GN). Root canals were prepared to the full WL using a crown‐down technique up to size 35, .04 taper instruments for BR and GN groups and size 30, .07 taper instruments for the PTN group. MCT was used to scan the specimens before and after canal instrumentation. Changes in dentine volume, the percentage of uninstrumented canal surface and degree of canal transportation were evaluated in the coronal, middle and apical thirds of canals. Data were analysed statistically using one‐way analysis of variance and Tuckey's post hoc tests with the significance level set at 5%.

Results

There were no significant differences between the three groups in the terms of dentine removed after preparation and determination of the root canal volume, or percentage of uninstrumented canal surface (P > 0.05). No significant differences were found between the systems for canal transportation in any canal third (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The shaping ability of the BR, PTN and GN NiTi file systems was equally effective. All instrumentation systems prepared curved root canal systems with no evidence of undesirable changes in 3D parameters or significant shaping errors.
THE DYNAMICS OF BERTRAND PRICE COMPETITION WITH COST‐REDUCING INVESTMENTS
Authors: Iskhakov Fedor , Rust John , Schjerning Bertel
Published: June 2018

We extend the classic Bertrand duopoly model of price competition to a dynamic setting where competing duopolists invest in a stochastically improving production technology to “leapfrog” their rival and attain temporary low‐cost leadership. We find a huge multiplicity of Markov‐perfect equilibria (MPE) and show that when firms move simultaneously the set of all MPE payoffs is a triangle that includes monopoly payoffs and a symmetric zero mixed strategy payoff. When firms move asynchronously, the set of MPE payoffs is strictly within this triangle, but there still is a vast multiplicity of MPE, most of which involve leapfrogging.
MULTILATERAL TRADE BARGAINING AND DOMINANT STRATEGIES
Authors: Bagwell Kyle , Staiger Robert W.
Published: June 2018

Motivated by General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade bargaining behavior and renegotiation rules, we construct a three‐country, two‐good general‐equilibrium model of trade and examine multilateral tariff bargaining under the constraints of nondiscrimination and multilateral reciprocity. For a general representation of government preferences, we identify the bargaining outcomes that can be achieved using dominant strategy proposals for all countries. In our analysis, dominant strategy outcomes emerge when tariff proposals are followed by multilateral rebalancing. The resulting bargaining outcome is efficient relative to government preferences if and only if the initial tariff vector positions the initial world price at its “politically optimal” level.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL SECURITY SURVIVORS INSURANCE
Authors: Li Yue
Published: June 2018

This article develops a heterogeneous agents model to analyze the effects of Social Security survivors insurance. The model features a negative mortality–income gradient, asymmetric information of individual mortality rates, and a warm‐glow bequest motive that varies by age and family structure. The model matches life‐cycle changes in life insurance coverage and generates advantageous selection in the insurance market. For male agents, reducing survivors benefits for dependent children generates welfare losses, whereas reducing survivors benefits for aged spouses produces welfare gains. The opposing welfare results are explained by differences in the timing of benefits and in the funding cost.
Effect of nonstoichiometry on mechanical properties of reactive hot‐pressed monolithic ZrCxCeramic
Authors: Kannan Rajaguru , Venkateswarlu Karodi , Rangaraj Lingappa
Published: June 2018

The reactive hot pressing (RHP) of Zr:C powder mixture at various molar ratios (1:0.5, 1:0.6, and 1:0.67) at applied pressures of 4‐7 MPa and 1200°C resulted in dense ZrCxceramics. Nano‐hardness values of ZrCxare reported to be 21‐31 GPa as “x” was varied from 0.5 to 1.0. However, indentation modulus for all ZrCxcompositions remained at ~350 GPa. Microhardness of the ZrCxincreased from 13 to 15 GPa as the stoichiometry was increased from 0.5 to 1.0. The indentation fracture toughness for ZrC0.5was 4 MPa m1/2, and for ZrC0.67it was reduced to 3.6 MPa m1/2. The 3‐point flexural strength for ZrC0.5was determined to be 386 ± 26 MPa, which decreased to 316 ± 20 MPa as the carbon content (ZrC0.67) was increased. The dry sliding wear of ZrC0.5to ZrC0.6indicated that the coefficient of friction was increased from 0.73 to 0.86 at 5 N load and 500 m sliding distance. Further, ZrC0.67showed a reduction in friction coefficient of 0.81, and this was due to the increase of strong Zr–C covalent bond and unreacted graphite.
Age‐adjusted cut‐off using the IL D‐dimer HS assay to exclude pulmonary embolism in patients presenting to emergency
Authors: Lim Ming S. , Bennett Ashwini , Chunilal Sanjeev
Published: June 2018

Background/Aim

The ADJUST‐PE study showed that an age‐adjusted D‐dimer (AADD) (age years × 10 ng/mL if >50 years) combined with an unlikely pre‐test probability (PTP) can increase the proportion of older patients in whom pulmonary embolism (PE) can be safely excluded, but the IL D‐dimer HS assay was not assessed. To assess the ability of the IL D‐dimer HS assay to exclude PE using the AADD.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients presenting with symptoms of acute PE to one of three Monash Health Emergency Departments (January 2013–January 2014) who had computed tomography pulmonary angiography. In the group with D‐dimer, efficiency (proportion of PE excluded based on a combination of unlikely PTP and negative D‐dimer) was determined using (i) current laboratory (200 ng/mL), (ii) conventional (230 ng/mL) and (iii) modified (375 ng/mL if age ≥60 years) AADD cut‐offs.

Results

A total of 176 patients with D‐dimers was included (mean age = 58.5 years; 54.0% males; 71.0% age >50 years). Prevalence of PE in the overall, unlikely and likely PTP groups, was 17.0, 13.0 and 24.6% respectively. In the unlikely PTP group (115 patients), efficiency for the current, conventional, modified and AADD cut‐offs was 9.6, 24.3, 30.4 and 37.4% respectively.

Conclusion

The absolute increase in efficiency of an AADD compared to conventional cut‐off using the IL D‐dimer HS assay is modest (~10%) and requires prospective validation. Modifying our cut‐off to 230 ng/mL and systematic implementation of a clinical algorithm, including D‐dimer testing and PTP, is likely a more important first step.
Mode of action of poloxamer‐based surfactants in wound care and efficacy on biofilms
Authors: Percival Steven L , Chen Rui , Mayer Dieter , Salisbury Anne‐Marie
Published: June 2018

Surfactants are widely used as detergents, emulsifiers, wetting agents, foaming agents, and dispersants in both the food and oil industry. Their use in a clinical setting is also common, particularly in wound care. Complicated or chronic wounds show clinical signs of delayed healing, persistent inflammation, and the production of non‐viable tissue. These types of wounds also present challenges such as infection and potentially house antimicrobial‐tolerant biofilms. The use of wound cleansers to aid cleaning and debridement of the wound is essential. A large proportion of skin and wound cleansers contain surfactants but there is only a small amount of data that shows the effectiveness of them in the enhancement of wound closure. This review paper aims to explore the available literature surrounding the use and mode of action of surfactants in wound healing, in particular Poloxamer 188 (Pluronic F‐68) and Poloxamer 407 (Pluronic F‐127), and also uncover the potential mechanisms behind the enhancement of wound healing and comparison to other surfactants used in wound care. Furthermore, the presence of a microbial biofilm in the wound is a significant factor in delayed wound healing. Therefore, the effect of clinically used surfactants on biofilms will be discussed, with emphasis on poloxamer‐based surfactants.
Preparation and characterization of Pb(Lu1/2Nb1/2)O3–Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–PbTiO3 ternary ferroelectric ceramics with high phase transition temperatures
Authors: Hu Duan , Wang Ke , Wang Linghang , Zhang Mao‐Hua , Thong HaoCheng , Liu YangBin , Xu Zhuo , Li Fei
Published: June 2018

To explore new relaxor‐PbTiO3 systems for high‐power and high‐temperature electromechanical applications, a ternary ferroelectric ceramic system of Pb(Lu1/2Nb1/2)O3–Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–PbTiO3 (PLN–PIN–PT) have been investigated. The phase structure, dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties of the as‐prepared PLN–PIN–PT ceramics near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) were characterized. A high rhombohedral‐tetragonal phase transition temperature TR‐T of 165°C and a high Curie temperature TC of 345°C, together with a good piezoelectric coefficient d33 of 420 pC/N, were obtained in 0.38PLN–0.20PIN–0.42PT ceramics. Furthermore, for (0.8−x)PLN–0.2PIN–xPT ceramics, the temperature‐dependent piezoelectric coefficients, coercive fields and electric‐field‐induced strains were further studied. At 175°C, their coercive fields were found to be above 9.5 kV/cm, which is higher than that of PMN–PT and soft P5H ceramics at room temperature, indicating PLN–PIN–PT ceramics to be one of the promising candidates in piezoelectric applications under high‐driven fields. The results presented here could benefit the development of relaxor‐PbTiO3 with enhanced phase transition temperatures and coercive fields.
Long‐term ceramic reliability analysis including the crack‐velocity threshold and the “bathtub” curve
Authors: Cook Robert F.
Published: June 2018

A thermally activated crack‐velocity formulation that includes a threshold at thermodynamic equilibrium is used in the prediction of long‐term time‐to‐failure for brittle materials. A new closed‐form time‐to‐failure solution is derived for straight cracks propagating under the influence of constant stress. Explicit connections are made between the macroscopic crack‐velocity parameters and the underlying bond‐rupture parameters. A feature of the solution is the divergence of time‐to‐failure for applied loading approaching the thermodynamic threshold. A new reliability framework is developed and long‐term reliability and hazard predictions made using the time‐to‐failure solution. A bathtub hazard curve is shown to be generated by a single crack‐velocity failure mechanism.
Fabrication of β‐tricalcium phosphate composite ceramic scaffolds based on spheres prepared by extrusion‐spheronization
Authors: He Fupo , Tian Ye , Fang Xibo , Lu Teliang , Li Jiyan , Shi Xuetao , Wu Shanghua , Zuo Fei , Ye Jiandong
Published: June 2018

In this study, β‐tricalcium phosphate/phosphate‐based glass (β‐TCP/PG) composite spheres were prepared by an extrusion‐spheronization method featuring high production and fine control of sphere size. Subsequently, fully interconnected β‐TCP composite ceramic sphere‐based (TCCS) scaffolds were fabricated by sintering the randomly packed β‐TCP/PG composite spheres. The results manifested that at least 20% microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was required to obtain β‐TCP/PG composite spheres in good spherical shape. The prepared TCCS scaffolds showed hierarchical pore architecture, which consisted of interconnected macropores among the spheres, a hollow core in the sphere, plentiful medium‐sized pores in the sphere shell and micropores among the grains. The pore architecture and mechanical strength of the TCCS scaffolds could be tailored by adjusting the sintering temperature, sphere size, and amounts of PG and MCC in the β‐TCP/PG composite spheres. This work is believed to open up new paths for the design and fabrication of interconnected bioceramic scaffolds for application in bone regeneration.
Mindfulness‐based stress reduction training yields improvements in well‐being and rates of perceived nursing errors among hospital nurses
Authors: Daigle Stephanie , Talbot France , French Douglas J.
Published: June 2018

Introduction

This pilot study aims to further document mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR)'s effect on well‐being while exploring its impact on errors among hospital nurses.

Background

The concept of mindfulness has been found to be highly relevant to holistic nursing practices but remains understudied and underused. Preliminary evidence suggests that MBSR can reduce stress among nurses. As stress and mental processes such as inattention are potential sources of error, MBSR may also help to improve patient safety. Reducing errors is of significant relevance in healthcare settings.

Design

A randomized controlled trial with a matched pair design was conducted.

Methods

Seventy Registered Nurses and licensed practical nurses were randomized to MBSR (N = 37) or a waitlist control condition (N = 33).

Results

Intention‐to‐treat ANCOVAs revealed that MBSR produced significant improvements in distress. High levels of treatment satisfaction were reported by a majority of participants. Of the nurses who reported that errors had been a problem for them (28.6%), a perceived improvement was noticed by over a third (37.5%) at 3 months post‐treatment.

Conclusion

These initial findings suggest that the benefits of MBSR may extend to nursing errors.
Development of an Australian nursing critical thinking tool using a Delphi process
Authors: Jacob Elisabeth , Duffield Christine , Jacob Darren
Published: June 2018

Aim

To develop a critical thinking assessment tool for Australian undergraduate nurses.

Background

Critical thinking is an important skill but difficult to assess in nursing practice. There are often many responses a nurse can make to a clinical problem or situation. Some responses are more correct than others and these decisions have an impact on a patient's care and safety. Differences in a response can relate to the depth of knowledge, experience and critical thinking ability of the individual nurse.

Design

This study used a Delphi process to develop five clinical case studies together with the most appropriate clinical responses to 25 clinical questions.

Method

The Delphi technique was undertaken using the Qualtrics survey tool between October 2016–January 2017. A panel of 13 nursing experts from various geographical locations in Australia participated in the study to review the case scenarios and answers to questions posed. Four rounds of participation were required to achieve a minimum of 80% agreement between participants. Participants were asked to rank answers for 25 multi‐choice questions based on the correct nursing management of case scenarios provided and provide feedback as to the accuracy and relevance of the scenarios and answers.

Results

Four rounds of Delphi questions were required to reach consensus on the correct wording and answers for the scenarios. Five case studies have been developed with nursing responses to patient management in rank order from most correct to least correct.

Conclusion

Use of the tool should provide confidence that a nurse has met a certain level of critical thinking ability.
Accurate genomic predictions for BCWD resistance in rainbow trout are achieved using low‐density SNP panels: Evidence that long‐range LD is a major contributing factor
Authors: Vallejo Roger L. , Silva Rafael M. O. , Evenhuis Jason P. , Gao Guangtu , Liu Sixin , Parsons James E. , Martin Kyle E. , Wiens Gregory D. , Lourenco Daniela  A. L. , Leeds Timothy D. , Palti Yniv
Published: June 2018

Previously accurate genomic predictions for Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) resistance in rainbow trout were obtained using a medium‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. Here, the impact of lower‐density SNP panels on the accuracy of genomic predictions was investigated in a commercial rainbow trout breeding population. Using progeny performance data, the accuracy of genomic breeding values (GEBV) using 35K, 10K, 3K, 1K, 500, 300 and 200 SNP panels as well as a panel with 70 quantitative trait loci (QTL)‐flanking SNP was compared. The GEBVs were estimated using the Bayesian method BayesB, single‐step GBLUP (ssGBLUP) and weighted ssGBLUP (wssGBLUP). The accuracy of GEBVs remained high despite the sharp reductions in SNP density, and even with 500 SNP accuracy was higher than the pedigree‐based prediction (0.50–0.56 versus 0.36). Furthermore, the prediction accuracy with the 70 QTL‐flanking SNP (0.65–0.72) was similar to the panel with 35K SNP (0.65–0.71). Genomewide linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis revealed strong LD (r2 ≥ 0.25) spanning on average over 1 Mb across the rainbow trout genome. This long‐range LD likely contributed to the accurate genomic predictions with the low‐density SNP panels. Population structure analysis supported the hypothesis that long‐range LD in this population may be caused by admixture. Results suggest that lower‐cost, low‐density SNP panels can be used for implementing genomic selection for BCWD resistance in rainbow trout breeding programs.
The Messinian imprint on the evolution of freshwater fishes of the genus Luciobarbus Heckel, 1843 (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) in the western Mediterranean
Authors: Casal‐López Miriam , Doadrio Ignacio
Published: June 2018

Aim

The current configuration of the Mediterranean Basin is the result of a complex geological history that promoted a drastic change of biological diversity, richness and distribution of freshwater organisms. Currently cyprinids of the genus Luciobarbus are the only representative of primary freshwater fishes widely distributed in the Mediterranean Basin, showing its highest diversity in the Western Mediterranean. Within this context, our objective was to explore the biogeographical patterns of the genus Luciobarbus in the context of the drastic geological changes during the Messinian.

Location

Western Mediterranean, including southern Iberia and North Africa.

Methods

Sampling covered the range of all known populations of Luciobarbus present in North Africa and southern Iberian Peninsula. Molecular data included mitochondrial and nuclear markers (mt‐cyb and actinII). Time‐calibrated phylogenies were inferred and a dispersal–extinction–cladogenesis model was used to reconstruct the biogeographical history.

Results

Our results suggest that the two western lineages of Luciobarbus originated during the Messinian, one including most of the North African species from Morocco and western Algeria and another composed of Iberian, one Moroccan and one Algerian species.

Main conclusion

During the Messinian, we found that two main events shaped the distribution of the western lineages of Luciobarbus. The first is associated with the end of the Messinian, which has previously been claimed to explain the difference between sister groups of freshwater fish fauna from both sides of the Gibraltar Strait. The second older and previously undetected event is associated with the existence of the last gateways connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
Outcomes of video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery for transvenous lead extraction
Authors: Dai Mingyan , Joyce David L. , Blackmon Shanda , Friedman M.P.H. Paul A. , Espinosa Raul , Osborn Michael J. , Huang Congxin , Cha Yong‐Mei
Published: June 2018

Introduction

To evaluate the outcomes of video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) during transvenous lead extractions (TLEs).

Methods and results

Ninety‐one high‐risk patients who underwent TLE in the operating room from January 1, 2015, to March 31, 2017, were included in the study. Of these, 9 patients underwent VATS during TLE. Their clinical characteristics, indications for lead extraction, and complications associated with TLE in the 9 patients who had VATS were compared with those for the 82 patients who did not have VATS. The mean (SD) age of the study patients was 61 (17) years (64.8% were male). The lead dwell time, number of leads extracted, and clinical comorbidities were similar between the 2 groups. Superior vena cava (SVC) tear occurred in 2 of the 9 patients in VATS group and in 1 of the 82 in the non‐VATS group (22.2% vs. 1.2%, P = 0.03). Of the 2 patients in the VATS group who had SVC tears, in 1 the tear was visualized immediately and there was no hemodynamic compromise. In the other patient, the SVC tear was within the pericardium; the blood pressure recovered quickly after sternotomy and repair. Both patients had complete lead extraction and survived hospitalization. The patient in the non‐VATS group who had an SVC tear had a successful repair but died of postoperative complications.

Conclusions

Utilization of VATS to facilitate TLE is beneficial for early recognition of SVC tear and timely surgical repair in select high‐risk patients.
Predictors of hemoptysis in the setting of pulmonary vein isolation using the second‐generation cryoballoon
Authors: Wei Hui‐Qiang , Guo Xiao‐Gang , Zhou Gong‐Bu , Sun Qi , Yang Jian‐Du , Luo Bin , Ma Jian
Published: June 2018

Introduction

To assess the predictors of hemoptysis using second‐generation cryoballoon (CB).

Methods

Thirty patients with hemoptysis after second‐generation CB ablation and 60 age‐, gender‐, and body mass index‐matched controls were recruited. Anatomic parameters were obtained from preprocedural cardiac computed tomography (CT). Pulmonary vein isolation was performed with 28‐mm balloon using single 3‐minute freeze technique.

Results

Clinical and procedural characteristics were similar between the groups. A shorter distance between left superior PV (LSPV) and left main bronchus (LMB) was associated with hemoptysis (7.8 ± 4.3 mm vs. 12.5 ± 3.5 mm, P < 0.001), whereas no significant difference in the distance between right superior PV (RSPV) and right main bronchus (RMB) was found between groups (11.9 ± 3.5 mm vs. 12.9 ± 4.6 mm, P = 0.089). Additionally, the mean thickness of the connective tissue interposed between RSPV and RMB was significantly thicker than that between LSPV and LMB in both groups (both P < 0.001). A stepwise logistic multivariate analysis identified only the LMB‐LSPV distance as an independent predictor of hemoptysis (odd ratio [OR] 2.676; 95% CI 1.121–4.843, P < 0.001). A cutoff value ≤ 9.5 mm predicted hemoptysis after CB ablation with 93.8% sensitivity and 75.0% specificity.

Conclusion

Hemoptysis is a relatively rare event following second‐generation CB ablation. The bronchi location obtained from CT aids in identifying high‐risk population for the complication.
Towards eradication of inappropriate therapies for ICD lead failure by combining comprehensive remote monitoring and lead noise alerts
Authors: Ploux Sylvain , Swerdlow Charles D. , Strik Marc , Welte Nicolas , Klotz Nicolas , Ritter Philippe , Haïssaguerre Michel , Bordachar Pierre
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Recognition of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) lead malfunction before occurrence of life threatening complications is crucial. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of remote monitoring associated or not with a lead noise alert for early detection of ICD lead failure.

Methods

From October 2013 to April 2017, a median of 1,224 (578–1,958) ICD patients were remotely monitored with comprehensive analysis of all transmitted materials. ICD lead failure and subsequent device interventions were prospectively collected in patients with (RMLN) and without (RM) a lead noise alert (Abbott Secure Sense™ or Medtronic Lead Integrity Alert™) in their remote monitoring system.

Results

During a follow‐up of 4,457 patient years, 64 lead failures were diagnosed. Sixty‐one (95%) of the diagnoses were made before any clinical complication occurred. Inappropriate shocks were delivered in only one patient of each group (3%), with an annual rate of 0.04%. All high voltage conductor failures were identified remotely by a dedicated impedance alert in 10 patients. Pace‐sense component failures were correctly identified by a dedicated alert in 77% (17 of 22) of the RMLN group versus 25% (8 of 32) of the RM group (P = 0.002). The absence of a lead noise alert was associated with a 16‐fold increase in the likelihood of initiating either a shock or ATP (OR: 16.0, 95% CI 1.8–143.3; P = 0.01).

Conclusion

ICD remote monitoring with systematic review of all transmitted data is associated with a very low rate of inappropriate shocks related to lead failure. Dedicated noise alerts further reduce inappropriate detection of ventricular arrhythmias.
Imaging technique for the diagnosis of onychomatricoma
Authors: Cinotti E. , Veronesi G. , Labeille B. , Cambazard F. , Piraccini B.M. , Dika E. , Perrot J.L. , Rubegni P.
Published: June 2018

Onychomatricoma is a rare tumour that derives from the nail matrix and grows within the nail plate. The clinical presentation can mimic many other tumours and conditions, and surgical biopsy and histopathological examination are necessary to confirm the diagnosis. As nail surgery is a painful experience for the patient and sometimes can leave permanent onychodistrophy, more precise preoperative diagnosis is needed to distinguish onychomatricoma from other nail diseases more accurately and to limit surgical interventions. The objective of this study was to evaluate current literature on imaging techniques for the diagnosis of onychomatricoma in order to understand how this technology can help the presurgical diagnosis of this tumour. We searched in the Cochrane Skin Group Specialised library, Medline, Embase and LILACS databases all studies evaluating imaging technique for the diagnosis of onychomatricoma up to February 2018. We found that not only nail dermoscopy, but also reflectance confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance can be useful in this field.
Hippocampal nuclear factor kappa B accounts for stress‐induced anxiety behaviors via enhancing neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)‐carboxy‐terminal PDZ ligand of nNOS‐Dexras1 coupling
Authors: Zhu Li‐Juan , Ni Huan‐Yu , Chen Rong , Chang Lei , Shi Hu‐Jiang , Qiu Dan , Zhang Zhan , Wu Dan‐Lian , Jiang Zhao‐Chun , Xin Hong‐Liang , Zhou Qi‐Gang , Zhu Dong‐Ya
Published: June 2018

Anxiety disorders are associated with a high social burden worldwide. Recently, increasing evidence suggests that nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) has significant implications for psychiatric diseases, including anxiety and depressive disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of NF‐κB in stress‐induced anxiety behaviors are poorly understood. In this study, we show that chronic mild stress (CMS) and glucocorticoids dramatically increased the expression of NF‐κB subunits p50 and p65, phosphorylation and acetylation of p65, and the level of nuclear p65 in vivo and in vitro, implicating activation of NF‐κB signaling in chronic stress‐induced pathological processes. Using the novelty‐suppressed feeding (NSF) and elevated‐plus maze (EPM) tests, we found that treatment with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC; intra‐hippocampal infusion), an inhibitor of NF‐κB, rescued the CMS‐ or glucocorticoid‐induced anxiogenic behaviors in mice. Microinjection of PDTC into the hippocampus reversed CMS‐induced up‐regulation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), carboxy‐terminal PDZ ligand of nNOS (CAPON), and dexamethasone‐induced ras protein 1 (Dexras1) and dendritic spine loss of dentate gyrus (DG) granule cells. Moreover, over‐expression of CAPON by infusing LV‐CAPON‐L‐GFP into the hippocampus induced nNOS‐Dexras1 interaction and anxiety‐like behaviors, and inhibition of NF‐κB by PDTC reduced the LV‐CAPON‐L‐GFP‐induced increases in nNOS‐Dexras1 complex and anxiogenic‐like effects in mice. These findings indicate that hippocampal NF‐κB mediates anxiogenic behaviors, probably via regulating the association of nNOS‐CAPON‐Dexras1, and uncover a novel approach to the treatment of anxiety disorders.

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Thrombus aspiration in late presenters with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction: A single‐center randomized trial
Authors: Rezq Ahmed , Saad Marwan
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To examine whether routine thrombus aspiration (TA) is associated with improved myocardial salvage in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) presenting ≥12 h after onset of symptoms.

Background

TA is a recognized treatment option in patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) especially in the setting of heavy thrombus burden. However, data on the role of TA in STEMI patients presenting late after onset of symptoms are limited.

Methods

In this single‐center prospective randomized study, patients with subacute STEMI presenting ≥12 and ≤48 h after symptom onset were randomized to primary PCI with or without manual TA in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint was the myocardial salvage index assessed with Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) on admission and 4 days later.

Results

A total of 60 patients underwent randomization. Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. TA was associated with improved myocardial salvage index compared with control group (60.1 ± 11.1% vs 28.1 ± 21.3%; P = <0.001). Furthermore, TA was associated with improved post‐procedural TIMI flow (2.9 ± 0.3 vs 2.5 ± 0.6; P = 0.003), myocardial blush grade (2.9 ± 0.3 vs 2.2 ± 0.8, P = <0.001), and reduction in left ventricular end‐diastolic dimensions (50.4 ± 4.3 mm vs 54.4 ± 5.8 mm, P = 0.004) compared with the control group. Clinical outcomes at 30 days and 6 months were similar between both groups.

Conclusions

TA might be associated with improved reperfusion and myocardial salvage especially in STEMI patients presenting after 12 h from symptom onset who are likely to have a heavy thrombus burden.
Unicystic ameloblastoma: Analysis of 370 cases in a single center in Sri Lanka
Authors: Siriwardena Bogahawatte Samarakoon Mudiyanselage Samadarani , Tennakoon Tennakoon Mudiyanselage Priyanka Bandara , Hunter Keith D. , Tilakaratne Wanninayake Mudiyanselage
Published: June 2018

Background

Unicystic ameloblastoma (UA) is a variant of ameloblastoma that has a relatively benign biologic behavior and mostly occurs in a younger age group. The entire cystic lining of unicystic ameloblastoma may not always be uniformly characteristic and may partly consist of non‐specific epithelium or dentigerous cyst‐like lining. The variability seen reinforces the advice that multiple biopsies should be taken from large cystic lesions to represent the entire lesion.

Methods

All cases were retrieved from the archives of our unit from 1986 to 2016. Demographic data such as age, gender, and primary site were recorded. Histologically, all the cases were subcategorized according to the WHO 2017 classification.

Results

UA accounts for 31.1% out of all different subtypes of ameloblastoma, and male‐to‐female ratio is 1.08:1. Age ranged from 4 to 88 years with the mean age of 30.25 years. Peak incidence of UA was found in the range of 11‐20 years, and 89% of them occurred in the mandible and 55.3% in the canine‐to‐first molar region. The right side was frequent in both upper and lower jaws. Of the total sample, 233 (63%) cases were luminal and 137 (37%) cases were mural, and 13 cases recurred (3.5%).

Conclusion

The present report analyzes the largest UA sample in a single center. There is a clear need for further large case‐controlled retrospective or prospective studies of the management of UA with careful and follow‐up studies to draw conclusions on the correct method of treatment of these lesions.
Another papulovesicular rash in an infant
Authors: Cascais Dr Mafalda , Januário Dr Gustavo , Mação Dr Patrícia
Published: June 2018

See Answer
Serum vitamin D levels and chronic periodontitis in adult, Caucasian population—a systematic review
Authors: Perić M. , Cavalier E. , Toma S. , Lasserre J. F.
Published: June 2018

The aim of this systematic review was to explore the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and periodontal disease. The review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The focusedPICOquestion was: Are serum vitamin D levels (I) associated with gingivitis or periodontitis (C) in healthy humans (P)? PubMed (Medline), Embase, Science Direct, the Cochrane library, and grey literature were searched up to 31 July 2017. Two reviewers independently selected studies and extracted data. Quality, risk of bias, and heterogeneity of the studies were assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. In total, 365 studies were identified and 24 were analyzed. Seven studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Four case‐control studies showed an influence of vitamin D and its metabolites on periodontal health status/disease. One interventional study suggested the proposed anti‐inflammatory role of vitamin D. Two cross‐sectional studies failed to show a relationship between vitamin D and periodontal condition. The literature on the effect of serum vitamin D levels on periodontal status remains scarce and controversial. Some data, however, support a “perio‐protective” role for vitamin D. There is a need for well‐designed randomized clinical trials to explore the possible anti‐inflammatory effect of vitamin D on periodontal health.
Congruent species delimitation of two controversial gold‐thread nanmu tree species based on morphological and restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing data
Authors: Ding Xin , Xiao Jian Hua , Li Lang , Conran John G. , Li Jie
Published: June 2018

Species delimitation is fundamental to conservation and sustainable use of economically important forest tree species. However, the delimitation of two highly valued gold‐thread nanmu species (Phoebe bournei (Hemsl.) Yang and P. zhennan S. K. Lee & F. N. Wei) has been confusing and debated. To address this problem, we integrated morphology and restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (RAD‐seq) to define their species boundaries. We obtained consistent results from the two datasets, supporting two distinct lineages corresponding to P. bournei and P. zhennan. In P. bournei, higher order leaf venation is more prominent, petioles are thicker, and leaf apex angle is narrower, compared to P. zhennan. Both datasets also revealed that the former putative P. bournei populations from northeastern Guizhou belong to P. zhennan. The two species are now distinct in distributions except in the Wuling Mountains, where they overlap. Phoebe bournei occurs mainly in central Fujian, southern Jiangxi, the Nanling Mountains, and the Wuling Mountains, whereas P. zhennan is found in the adjoining eastern regions of the Qionglai Mountains, the southern Sichuan hills, and the Wuling Mountains. The re‐delimitation of P. bournei and P. zhennan and clarification of their ranges provide a better scientific basis guiding the conservation and sustainable utilization of these tree species.
The Holocene history of low altitude Mediterranean Fagus sylvatica forests in southern France
Authors: Azuara Julien , Lebreton Vincent , Peyron Odile , Mazier Florence , Combourieu‐Nebout Nathalie
Published: June 2018

Questions

As the dominant tree in many European forests, Fagus sylvatica functions as an ecosystem engineer, yet its istory remains little understood. Here we ask: (a) are there indications for its presence in southeast France during the last Glacial period; (b) what was the timing of the expansion and decline of F. sylvatica dominated forests; (c) which factors influenced their dynamics and in particular to what extent did past precipitation changes impact upon them; and (d) at which altitudes did these beech forests occur within the region?

Location

Languedoc, the French Mediterranean area.

Method

This article presents a well dated and high‐resolution pollen sequence covering the last 7,800 years from the Palavas Lagoon in the Languedoc together with a review of Fagus charcoal occurrences in the Languedoc and the lower Rhône Valley, and a review of pollen data from a compilation of 69 sites in southeast France.

Results

The Palavas pollen sequence provides a regional summary of F. sylvatica abundance changes near the Mediterranean coast. Around 6,000 years cal BP, an abrupt transition from small beech populations to well‐developed forests is recorded. The maximum development of beech forests occurred between 4,000 and 3,000 years cal BP, while F. sylvatica started to regress after 3,000 years cal BP.

Conclusion

Scattered F. sylvatica populations probably survived throughout southern France during the last Glacial period. F. sylvatica started to spread around 8,000 years cal BP while beech forests never expanded before 6,000 years cal BP. The complex patterns of F. sylvatica expansion in southern France after 6,000 years cal BP suggests that a combination of global (climate change) and local (human impact) factors were responsible for this major change. Recurrent abrupt climate changes, the aridity trend and human deforestation caused beech forests to decline after 3,000 years cal BP.
Counting with DNA in metabarcoding studies: How should we convert sequence reads to dietary data?
Authors: Deagle Bruce E. , Thomas Austen C. , McInnes Julie C. , Clarke Laurence J. , Vesterinen Eero J. , Clare Elizabeth L. , Kartzinel Tyler R. , Eveson J. Paige
Published: June 2018

Advances in DNA sequencing technology have revolutionized the field of molecular analysis of trophic interactions, and it is now possible to recover counts of food DNA sequences from a wide range of dietary samples. But what do these counts mean? To obtain an accurate estimate of a consumer's diet should we work strictly with data sets summarizing frequency of occurrence of different food taxa, or is it possible to use relative number of sequences? Both approaches are applied to obtain semi‐quantitative diet summaries, but occurrence data are often promoted as a more conservative and reliable option due to taxa‐specific biases in recovery of sequences. We explore representative dietary metabarcoding data sets and point out that diet summaries based on occurrence data often overestimate the importance of food consumed in small quantities (potentially including low‐level contaminants) and are sensitive to the count threshold used to define an occurrence. Our simulations indicate that using relative read abundance (RRA) information often provides a more accurate view of population‐level diet even with moderate recovery biases incorporated; however, RRA summaries are sensitive to recovery biases impacting common diet taxa. Both approaches are more accurate when the mean number of food taxa in samples is small. The ideas presented here highlight the need to consider all sources of bias and to justify the methods used to interpret count data in dietary metabarcoding studies. We encourage researchers to continue addressing methodological challenges and acknowledge unanswered questions to help spur future investigations in this rapidly developing area of research.