bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy at HIV diagnosis: definition, process, knowledge gaps
Authors: Boyd MA , Boffito M , Castagna A , Estrada V
Published: February 2019

Initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) as early as the day of HIV diagnosis is a strategy of increasing global interest to control the HIV epidemic and optimize the health of people living with HIV (PLWH). No detrimental effects of rapid‐start ART have been identified in randomized controlled trials undertaken in low‐ or middle‐income countries, or in cohort studies performed in high‐income countries. Rapid‐start ART may be a key approach in reaching the 2020 Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS goal of 90% of all PLWH knowing their status, 90% of those diagnosed receiving sustained ART, and 90% of those receiving ART achieving viral suppression; it may also be important for achieving the suggested fourth “90%” goal: improving health‐related quality‐of‐life in PLWH. Presently there is insufficient broad evidence for guidelines to recommend universal test‐and‐treat strategies for all people, in all settings, at HIV diagnosis; consequently, there is a pressing need to conduct high‐quality studies that investigate immediate ART initiation. This article evaluates global evidence regarding rapid‐start ART, including same‐day start, with particular focus on the implementation of this strategy in high‐income countries.
Understanding the role of cutaneous allergy testing in anogenital dermatoses: a retrospective evaluation of contact sensitization in anogenital dermatoses
Authors: Foley Catherine C. , White Siobhan , Merry Subha , Nolan Una , Moriarty Blaithin , Kirby Brian , Collins Paul , Lally Aoife
Published: February 2019

Background

Patients with anogenital symptoms may delay before seeking medical attention. Attempted self‐treatment with multiple topical preparations and excessive hygiene measures offer ideal conditions for sensitization. The aim of this study was to identify the common allergens detected on cutaneous allergy testing in patients presenting with anogenital symptoms.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent cutaneous allergy testing for perianal and/or genital symptoms over a 3‐year period, January 2013 to December 2015, n = 99. Information was gathered from medical records, pretesting questionnaires, and cutaneous allergy testing records.

Results

At least one relevant allergen(s) was identified in 44/99 (45%) in our cohort, with allergic reactions to fragrances, Myroxylon pereirae, caine mix, sodium metabisulfite, and methylisothiazolinone most frequently observed.

Conclusions

Cutaneous allergy testing is a useful investigation in patients presenting with anogenital symptoms, but advice regarding general skin care measures should not be omitted. The most commonly identified relevant allergens in our study were those present in over‐the‐counter cleansing and hemorrhoid preparations.
Ba4R2Sn4Nb6O30 (R = La, Nd, Sm) lead‐free relaxors with filled tungsten bronze structure
Authors: Yang Zi Jin , Feng Wen Bin , Liu Xiao Qiang , Zhu Xiao Li , Chen Xiang Ming
Published: February 2019

Ba4R2Sn4Nb6O30 (R = La, Nd, Sm) lead‐free relaxor ceramics were prepared by a standard solid‐state reaction process. The B‐site substitution effects of Sn4+ on crystal chemistry, dielectric, and ferroelectric nature were systematically discussed. Tetragonal tungsten bronze compound in space group P4/mbm was confirmed as the major phase for each composition. With decreasing temperature, a broad peak with strong frequency dispersion was observed for both the dielectric constant (ε′) and dielectric loss (tan δ), which could be well described by the Vogel‐Fulcher relation. Raman analysis revealed the transformation of the internal vibration modes, demonstrating the modification effects of Sn4+ on the crystal chemical environment owing to its d10 electron configuration. The ferroelectrically inert Sn4+ in B sites acted as disturbing centers which weakened the dipole coupling and the long‐range ferroelectric order, and subsequently led to the suppression of ferroelectric transition and the enhancement of relaxor behavior.
Enabling the low‐cost preparation of core‐shell WC–Ni powder by developing a non‐noble metal‐based catalytic
Authors: Zhang Lei , Xin Fengxia , Li Shaofu , Yang Yafeng , Zhu Qingshan , Wang Gang
Published: February 2019

A novel method of incorporating fluidized bed chemical vapor deposition (FBCVD) with electroless plating was developed to effectively prepare the core‐shell structured high‐Ni‐content WC–Ni composite powders. FBCVD offered a unique approach to decorating Ni particles on WC particles. The small Ni particle acted as an active catalyst to effectively produce high‐Ni‐content composite powders in the subsequent electroless plating process. The particle size and quantity of decorated Ni particle determined the electroless plating rate. FBCVD pretreatment temperature and time had a conflicting influence on obtaining both the fine size and large quantity of deposited Ni particles. For the conditions tested, the maximum electroless plating rate of 2.93 mg/g/min was obtained using an optimal FBCVD pretreatment at 750°C for 5 minutes, corresponding to a 0.11 wt. % Ni deposition and 50 nm particle size.
Intrinsic origin of enhanced piezoelectricity in alkali niobate‐based lead‐free ceramics
Authors: Tan Zhi , Peng Yuting , An Jiao , Zhang Qiming , Zhu Jianguo
Published: February 2019

An orientational average method is used to calculate the piezoelectric coefficients of KNbO3 and K0.5Na0.5NbO3 (KN and KNN) piezoceramics, which is the first time that an ab initio method has been used to directly compare the piezoelectric coefficients with the experimental results of the orthorhombic alkali niobate‐based lead‐free piezoceramics. It is found that the longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient of orthorhombic KN and KNN piezoceramics is mainly contributed by d33 and d15 of their single crystal. The approximately 70% increase in the calculated is confirmed in pure orthorhombic KNN over KN piezoceramics. The increased response of the internal coordinates of Na and O atoms to macroscopic strain is considered the main origin of the enhanced piezoelectricity. The underlying mechanism is that the smaller atomic size of Na provides more room for itself and the adjacent O atoms in the perovskite structure, which leads to the increased local structural instability. In this case, the Na and its nearby O atoms are easier to move when an external stress is applied on the KNN and then induce the substantial change in polarization. This work provides a microscopic insight to understand the enhanced piezoelectricity in KNN piezoceramics.
Stable structure and electronic properties of Ru1−xTixO2 rutile type solid solutions from DFT calculations
Authors: Yang Chen , Zhao Zong‐Yan
Published: February 2019

To design solid solution is an effective strategy for functional materials. The complex electron correlation and non‐equilibrium atomic interaction are the primary factors to impact the macro‐/micro‐structure and application performances of solid solution. Hence, this article concentrates on the stable crystal structure and the corresponding electronic structure of Ru1−xTixO2 solid solution by using density functional theory calculations. Based on analyzing the atomic interaction between solute and solvent atoms, the most stable supercell models for the specific solid solubility were obtained. In Ru1−xTixO2 solid solution, solute (and solvent) atoms preferentially arrange along the [110] direction, and tend to occupy the nearest sites of identical atoms, to arrange the symmetric ordered substitution configurations. Using the subregular solution model, the mixing enthalpy can be represented by the following expression: . The calculated phase diagram is consistent with the experimental results. Thus, the calculated results in this article are reliable and can provide more meaningful information. In the cases of Ru‐rich solid solutions, the metastable phase exists in the range of x < 0.27; while in the cases of Ti‐rich solid solutions, the metastable phase exists in the range of x > 0.81. Interestingly, the electron density of Ru1−xTixO2 solid solutions at Fermi level has a stronger dependence on the Ru composition, which intrinsically influences its electronic structure and optical properties. According to the basic application principle, Ru1−xTixO2 solid solutions with lower (x < 0.27) and higher (x > 0.81) solid solubility could act as suitable candidate for the applications in field electrochemistry and photocatalysis.
A confirmatory study of the relations between workplace sexism, sense of belonging, mental health, and job satisfaction among women in male‐dominated industries
Authors: Rubin Mark , Paolini Stefania , Subašić Emina , Giacomini Anna
Published: February 2019

The present study investigated the mediating role of sense of belonging in the relations between workplace sexism and (a) mental health and (b) job satisfaction. Participants were 190 women from a large Australian trade union that represented mainly male‐dominated jobs. They completed an online survey that contained measures of sexism, sense of belonging in the industry, mental health, and job satisfaction. As predicted, sense of belonging mediated the associations between organizational sexism and both mental health and job satisfaction. In addition, sense of belonging mediated the association between interpersonal sexism and mental health. These results are discussed in relation to strategies for supporting women and mitigating the effects of sexism in male‐dominated workplaces. The Open Science Framework webpage for this project is at: https://osf.io/a3yqc/.
Renal sympathetic denervation improves clinical outcomes in patients undergoing catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation and history of hypertension: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Atti Varunsiri , Turagam Mohit K. , Garg Jalaj , Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya
Published: February 2019

Background

Currently, there is limited data regarding the impact of adjunctive renal sympathetic denervation (RSDN) with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in hypertensive patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

A comprehensive literature search for studies comparing RSDN + PVI vs PVI alone for AF and history of hypertension until 1 January 2019 was performed. The results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) for the categorical variables and mean difference (MD) for the continuous variables with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of six eligible (four randomized and two prospective nonrandomized) studies consisting of 432 patients (306 paroxysmal AF and 126 persistent AF) were included (RSDN + PVI group: 186 patients and PVI group: 246 patients). Follow‐up is more than or equal to 1 year. Compared with PVI, RSDN + PVI significantly decreased the risk of AF recurrence (RR = 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.47‐0.72, P < 0.00001) on follow‐up. Fluoroscopy (MD = +5.53 minutes, 95% CI = 0.76‐10.31, P = 0.02) and procedure time (MD = +34.85 minutes, 95% CI = 23.55‐46.16, P < 0.00001) was significantly longer with the PVI + RSDN group compared with PVI alone. There were no significant differences in complications between both groups. Test of heterogeneity was low for all clinical outcomes (I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis demonstrates that RSDN as an adjunct to PVI appears to be safe and improves clinical outcomes in both paroxysmal and persistent AF and history of hypertension
Iterative navigation of multipole diagnostic catheters to locate repeating‐pattern atrial fibrillation drivers
Authors: Ganesan Prasanth , Salmin Anthony , Cherry Elizabeth M. , Huang David T. , Pertsov Arkady M. , Ghoraani Behnaz
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Targeting repeating‐pattern atrial fibrillation (AF) sources (reentry or focal drivers) can help in patient‐specific ablation therapy for AF; however, the development of reliable and accurate tools for locating such sources remains a major challenge. We describe iterative catheter navigation (ICAN) algorithm to locate AF drivers using a conventional circular Lasso catheter.

Methods and Results

At each step, the algorithm analyzes 10 bipolar electrograms recoded at a given catheter location and the history of previous catheter movements to determine if the source is inside the catheter loop. If not, it calculates new coordinates and selects a new position for the catheter. The process continues until a source is located. The algorithm was evaluated in a computer model of atrial tissue with various degrees of fibrosis under a broad range of arrhythmia scenarios. The latter included slow and fast reentry, macroreentry, figure‐of‐eight reentry, and fibrillatory conduction. Depending on the initial distance of the catheter from the source and scenario, it took about 3 to 16 steps to localize an AF source. In 94% of cases, the identified location was within 4 mm from the source, independently of the initial position of the catheter. The algorithm worked equally well in the presence of patchy fibrosis, low‐voltage areas, fragmented electrograms, and dominant‐frequency gradients.

Conclusions

AF repeating‐pattern sources can be localized using circular catheters without the need to map the entire tissue. The proposed algorithm has the potential to become a useful tool for patient‐specific ablation of AF sources located outside the pulmonary veins.
Understanding policing as a mechanism of cheater control in cooperating bacteria
Authors: Wechsler Tobias , Kümmerli Rolf , Dobay Akos
Published: February 2019

Policing occurs in insect, animal and human societies, where it evolved as a mechanism maintaining cooperation. Recently, it has been suggested that policing might even be relevant in enforcing cooperation in much simpler organisms such as bacteria. Here, we used individual‐based modelling to develop an evolutionary concept for policing in bacteria and identify the conditions under which it can be adaptive. We modelled interactions between cooperators, producing a beneficial public good, cheaters, exploiting the public good without contributing to it, and public good‐producing policers that secrete a toxin to selectively target cheaters. We found that toxin‐mediated policing is favoured when (a) toxins are potent and durable, (b) toxins are cheap to produce, (c) cell and public good diffusion is intermediate, and (d) toxins diffuse farther than the public good. Although our simulations identify the parameter space where toxin‐mediated policing can evolve, we further found that policing decays when the genetic linkage between public good and toxin production breaks. This is because policing is itself a public good, offering protection to toxin‐resistant mutants that still produce public goods, yet no longer invest in toxins. Our work thus highlights that not only specific environmental conditions are required for toxin‐mediated policing to evolve, but also strong genetic linkage between the expression of public goods, toxins and toxin resistance is essential for this mechanism to remain evolutionarily stable in the long run.
Effect of microwave power on drying kinetics, structure, color, and antioxidant activities of corncob
Authors: Saha Suman Kumar , Dey Suhrita , Chakraborty Runu
Published: February 2019

In this study, the effect of microwave drying (MWD) at four power levels (180, 300, 600, and 900 W) on kinetics, structure, color parameters, and antioxidant activity of corncob (CCB) was evaluated. Hot air‐dried (HAD) and freeze‐dried (FD) CCBs were used as controls. Drying conditions significantly affected the physicochemical characteristics as well as bioactivities of CCB. For MWD products, direct absorption of electromagnetic energy by water molecules greatly accelerated the evaporation process, leading to a faster dehydration with a very high moisture diffusivity value. Additionally, the application of microwave markedly enhanced disintegration of cellular components manifested in lowered values of structural and color attributes for MWD CCBs, which facilitated the liberation of bound polyphenols into fractions of free phenolic compounds and intensified the ultrasound‐assisted extraction of antioxidants. The presence of rutin, protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin was responsible for high bioactivity of MWD CCB. However, thermal‐ and oxidation‐induced degradation of thermolabile polyphenols was responsible for the loss of antioxidant activity at higher (600 and 900 W) and lower (180 W) microwave powers. CCB dried using 300 W microwave power was the best drying process with the highest content of bioavailable antioxidants and antioxidant activity.

Practical applications

Using lignocellulosic plant part as a source of functional food or nutritional compounds requires intensive studies on the nutritional quality of products as well as bioavailabilities of such compounds. As most of the antioxidant compounds remain bound to cellulose and hemicellulose in seed, cob, and peel, techniques that promote the disintegration of bound polymeric complexes improve the bioactivity of these products. The present research highlights the potential benefits of microwave drying for the improvement in the bioactivity of corncob (CCB). The presence of several key phenolic compounds suggests a potential application of CCB in medicinal, cosmetic, and food industries.
Nonketotic hyperglycinemia in captive‐bred Vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops) with cataracts
Authors: Khoza Sanele , Ngqaneka Thobile , Magwebu Zandisiwe Emilia , Chauke Chesa Gift
Published: February 2019

Background

Nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) is a rare metabolic disorder that is characterized by high levels of glycine in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid in humans. In this study, total congenital cataract captive‐bred Vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops) that are hyperglycinemic were screened to identify mutations in Bola type 3 (BOLA3), glutaredoxin 5 (GLRX5), and lipoate synthase (LIAS) genes.

Methods

Twenty‐four Vervet monkeys (12 hyperglycinemic and 12 healthy controls) were selected for mutation analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Sanger sequencing, and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

Novel sequence variants were identified in BOLA3 (R23H and Q38R) and LIAS (R369I and A371A), and gene expression in the control group was significantly lower compared to the hyperglycinemic group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The data obtained from this study will contribute to generation of new knowledge regarding the involvement of these genes in NKH development.
A new method for tongue rehabilitation with computer games: Pilot study
Authors: Furlan Renata Maria Moreira Moraes , Santana Guilherme André , Bischof Walter F. , Motta Andréa Rodrigues , de Las Casas Estevam Barbosa
Published: February 2019

Background

Lingual exercises are commonly used in clinical practice for swallowing rehabilitation. Associating lingual exercises with computer games increases motivation, which influences tongue motor performance.

Objective

To investigate the effects of tongue movement direction; resistance force level; repetition number; sustained tongue contraction duration; age and gender on tongue motor performance in healthy adults using computer games.

Methods

An observational pilot study was carried out at a university laboratory. Nine healthy adults, aged 22 to 38 years, used an intra‐oral joystick controlled by the tongue to play four computer games. The participants had to reach 12 targets that appeared on the computer screen using the intra‐oral joystick. Motor performance was measured by the number of attempts to score and the time during which the target force was maintained. Tongue motor performance was compared among tongue movement direction, resistance force level, game round number, and continuous force application time on the target, age and gender.

Results

The number of attempts depended significantly on the direction, continuous force application time on the target and age. The time during which the target force was maintained depended significantly on the direction, continuous force application time on the target and game round number. There were no significant differences in the comparisons by gender or by resistance force level.

Conclusions

It was seen that young adults had their best performance in the downward direction, on the third round, holding the force for a shorter time. The performance deteriorated as age increased.
Association of nitric oxide with oral lichen planus
Authors: Alamir Abdul Wahab H. , Arakeri Gururaj , Patil Shankargouda , Awan Kamran Habib , Kujan Omar , Aljabab Abdulsalam , Fonseca Felipe , Brennan Peter A.
Published: February 2019

Background

The small signalling molecule nitric oxide (NO) has been postulated to have a mediator role in the pathogenesis of several diseases including oral lichen planus (OLP). This systematic review aimed to quantify the existing literature and assess the association of NO and OLP.

Methods

The focused question being addressed was “Is there an association between nitric oxide and OLP?” PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science, and grey literature from January 1990 to August 2018 were searched. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection using specified eligibility criteria.

Results

Seven studies that met the eligibility criteria were included. All of these were case‐control studies and 151 patients with OLP were evaluated (mostly females), with an age ranged from 20 to 75 years. The included studies showed a significant higher NO levels in OLP patients compared to the healthy controls, with two studies demonstrated a higher NO levels in erosive OLP compared to non‐erosive OLP.

Conclusion

These findings support that an association exists between higher NO concentration and OLP. However, larger high‐quality studies with refined methodological design are needed to confirm the role of NO in the aetiology and pathogenesis of OLP.
The Multidimensional Illness Severity Questionnaire: Preliminary evaluation of a brief parent‐reported measure of illness severity
Authors: Paquette Erin T , Joffe Steven
Published: February 2019

Aim

This study describes the reliability and concurrent validity of the Multidimensional Illness Severity Questionnaire (MISQ), a five‐item measure for capturing parents' reports of their child's illness severity.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional survey of parents of children participating in a paediatric research study (n = 20). We assessed parents' perceptions of illness severity using five measures: (i) the MISQ, (ii) the Lansky Play Performance scale, (iii) the Severity of Illness Scale, (iv) subscales of the Parent Experience of Child Illness and (v) general health. We calculated the internal reliability of the MISQ using Cronbach's alpha and assessed concurrent validity through correlations between scores on the MISQ and other measures.

Results

MISQ scores ranged from 6/21 to 17/21 (mean = 11.5). The MISQ had adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.76) and correlated strongly with other measures.

Conclusion

Preliminary evaluation suggests that the MISQ is an easy‐to‐administer and internally consistent multidimensional assessment of parent‐reported illness severity.
Quantitative in situ XRD measurement of shock metamorphism in Martian meteorites using lattice strain and strain‐related mosaicity in olivine
Authors: Jenkins Laura E. , Flemming Roberta L. , McCausland Phil J. A.
Published: February 2019

All Martian meteorites have experienced shock metamorphism to some degree. We quantitatively determined shock‐related strain in olivine crystals to measure shock level and peak shock pressure experienced by five Martian meteorites. Two independent methods employing nondestructive in situ micro X‐ray diffraction (μXRD) are applied, i.e., (1) the lattice strain method, in which the lattice strain value (ε) for each olivine grain is derived from a Williamson–Hall plot using its diffraction pattern (peak width variation with diffraction angle) with reference to a best fit calibration curve of ε values obtained from experimentally shocked olivine grains; (2) the strain‐related mosaicity method, allowing shock stage to be estimated by measuring the streaking along the Debye rings of olivine grain diffraction spots to define their strain‐related mosaic spread, which can then be compared with olivine mosaicity in ordinary chondrites of known shock stage. In this study, both the calculated peak shock pressures and the estimated shock stages for Dar al Gani 476 (45.6 ± 0.6 GPa), Sayh al Uhaymir 005/8 (46.1 ± 2.2 GPa), and Nakhla (18.0 ± 0.6 GPa) compare well with literature values. Formal shock assessments for North West Africa 1068/1110 (53.9 ± 2.1 GPa) and North West Africa 6234 (44.6 ± 3.1 GPa) have not been reported within the literature; however, their calculated peak shock pressures fall within the range of peak shock pressures defining their estimated shock stages. The availability of nondestructive and quantitative μXRD methods to determine shock stage and peak shock pressure from olivine crystals provides a key tool for shock metamorphism analysis.
Theorizing Qualitative Interviews: Two Autoethnographic Reconstructions
Authors: MCGREGOR JANICE , FERNÁNDEZ JULIETA
Published: February 2019

The present study takes a reflexive approach to the analysis of coordinated identity work in qualitative interviews in 2 study abroad (SA) contexts, Argentina and Germany. To do this, the authors bring together 2 autoethnographic projects and take a collaborative approach (Chang, Ngunjiri, & Hernandez, 2013; Lapadat, 2017) to the analysis of semi‐structured interviews and identity memos (Maxwell, 2013) collected in their respective SA contexts. The results of an interactionally grounded analysis show that cross‐sectionally, in qualitative interviews with SA students, different facets of one researcher's national identity became relevant and were contested, affecting how she approached this topic and her participants across multiple interviews. The results also show that longitudinally, in qualitative interviews with 1 SA student over time, different facets of the other researcher's professional identity became relevant and affected how she approached particular topics with her participant over time. The findings reveal that researcher identity work and the co‐constructed nature of interviews result in qualitatively different interview data (e.g., in terms of elaboration, openness, and language use) made available for analysis.
Atypical globular glial tauopathy with a combination of types I and II pathology
Authors: Kon Tomoya , Mori Fumiaki , Arai Akira , Miki Yasuo , Tanji Kunikazu , Kurotaki Hidekachi , Tomiyama Masahiko , Wakabayashi Koichi
Published: February 2019

Globular glial tauopathy (GGT) is a group of 4‐repeat tauopathies characterized by widespread globular glial inclusions (GGIs). GGT is now classified into three subtypes based on the distribution and morphology of the GGIs. We report an autopsy case of GGT in an 85‐year‐old woman who presented with semantic dementia, a rare phenotype in GGT. Postmortem examination revealed marked atrophy of the frontotemporal and motor cortices and corticospinal tract degeneration with widespread occurrence of globular neurofibrillary tangles and GGIs. The distribution of the pathology was similar to that seen in GGT type III. However, the morphology of astrocytic inclusions in the present case differed from that in type III. Moreover, the tau burden in the primary motor area was more severe in the gray than in the white matter, and globular oligodendroglial inclusions were more numerous than astrocytic inclusions, corresponding to GGT type II. By contrast, the tau pathology in the temporal lobe was chiefly globular oligodendroglial inclusions in the white matter, corresponding to GGT type I. Thus, the present case exhibited a combination of GGT types I and II pathology. Our findings appear to extend the pathological heterogeneity of GGT.
Optimal harvest strategy for even‐aged stands with price uncertainty and risk of natural disturbances
Authors: Susaeta Andres , Gong Peichen
Published: February 2019

We present a reservation price model to examine the joint impacts of natural disturbances and stumpage price uncertainty on the optimal harvesting decision for even‐aged forest stands. We consider a landowner who manages a loblolly pine stand to produce timber and amenities, under age‐dependent risk of wildfires and uncertainty in future timber prices. We show that the incorporation of risk of wildfires decreases the optimal reservation prices. The inclusion of risk of wildfires leads to lower land values and reduces the mean harvest age compared with the case of no‐risk of wildfires. Higher economic gains are obtained with the reservation price strategy compared with the deterministic rotation age model—a difference in the land value of $2,326 ha−1(21%) between the two approaches.

Recommendations for Resource Managers

Our adaptive harvest strategy shows that the incorporation of risk of wildfires decreases the optimal reservation prices compared with the case of no‐risk of wildfires.

Low reservation prices—a price that makes the landowner indifferent between harvesting or waiting longer—result in lower economic benefits for landowners and potential conversions of lands to nonforest use.

Forest management practices oriented to reduce the effects of catastrophic disturbances, for example, creating a more complex forest structure with different stand densities, become imperative to ensure the sustainability of forestlands in the US South.

Our analysis also suggests that the valuation of forestry investments should consider not only the risk of catastrophic events but also uncertainty in future timber prices. Higher appraisals of land value are obtained when timber price uncertainty is explicitly recognized, providing financial incentives for landowners to invest in forestry.
Oral health and associated factors among preschool children with special healthcare needs
Authors: Zhou Ni , Wong Hai Ming , McGrath Colman
Published: February 2019

Objective

To investigate the oral health status and associated factors among preschool children with special healthcare needs.

Subjects and methods

This was designed as a cross‐sectional study. Dental examination was provided to 383 children at Special Child Care Centres. Covariates of interest included children's age, developmental profile, oral health‐related behaviours and family social‐economic status. The association between children's dental caries experiences, dental plaque deposition and gingival health status were analysed by negative binomial regression, multiple factorANOVAand binary logistic regression when appropriate.

Results

The proportion of children with caries, gingival inflammation and plaque were 30.3%, 89.6% and 95.0%, respectively. Final regression models indicated that (a) tooth decay was associated with dental visit experiences, night bottle‐feeding habit, fluoridated toothpaste and monthly income; (b) plaque deposition was associated with intellectual functioning, practical skills, night bottle‐feeding habit, use of toothpaste, initiation of toothbrushing habit, toothbrushing duration and additional cleaning habit; (c) gingival status was associated with children's intellectual functioning and toothbrushing frequency.

Conclusions

Poor oral hygiene status existed among preschool children with special healthcare needs. Children's oral health status was associated with their developmental profile, oral health‐related behaviours and social‐economic status.
Development of a multinational registry of pediatric deceased organ donation activity
Authors: Weiss Matthew J. , Domínguez‐Gil Beatriz , Lahaie Nick , Nakagawa Thomas A. , Scales Angie , Hornby Laura , Green Meagan , Gelbart Ben , Hawkins Kay , Dhanani Sonny , Dipchand Anne I. , Shemie Sam D. ,   the Canadian Critical Care Trials Group
Published: February 2019

Background

There are no currently agreed upon international standards for reporting of pediatric deceased organ donation activity. This leads to difficulty in comparisons between jurisdictions for both researchers and policy stakeholders. The goal of this project was to develop and test a standardized registry for pediatric deceased donation activity.

Methods

Four countries (Canada, Spain, USA, and the UK) with geographical and practice diversity were approached to participate. Iterative exchanges were used to create data fields and definitions that were acceptable to all participants. Data from 2011 to 2015 (inclusive) were requested from national health databases and analyzed on a secure, web‐based survey platform.

Results

Data were obtained from three of the four countries (Canada unable to provide). Total pediatric donation rates were stable over the 5‐year period, but with variation between countries. pDCD rates were the most variable, representing 32.2% of total pediatric donation in the UK, 14.4% in the United States, and 2.6% in Spain during the studied period. Most organs from pediatric donors were allocated to adult recipients, though the rates of allocation of pediatric kidneys to pediatric recipients ranged from 7% in the United States to 40% in Spain.

Discussion

In this limited cohort of three countries, we demonstrated substantial variation in pediatric donation rates and practice. These data highlight opportunities for practice improvement such as the development of rigorous clinical practice guidelines. Future development of this registry will seek to engage more countries, and address barriers that prevented full participation of approached jurisdictions.
The Historical Presidency Unilateral Politics in the Traditional Era: Significant Executive Orders and Proclamations, 1861–1944
Authors: Williams Raymond T.
Published: February 2019

There are two significant omissions in the literature on presidential unilateralism. First, few scholars have examined whether their theories apply to directives other than executive orders. Second, scholars have primarily focused on unilateral usage in the modern era at the expense of the traditional era. This article addresses these omissions by testing one theory, Howell’s Unilateral Politics Model, on the usage of more than 1,300 significant executive orders and proclamations from 1861 to 1944. The results show that presidents in the traditional era issued more executive orders during a partisan administration change and that this effect continued into the modern era. Traditional presidents also issued more proclamations when Congress was stronger, which is counter to what Howell expected in his theory. Ultimately, these results show that the traditional–modern presidency dichotomy applies for proclamations but not for executive orders. The modern patterns of executive order usage are a continuation of the patterns that began in the traditional era. However, a noticeable shift in behavior occurred between eras with respect to presidential proclamations, probably as a result of this type of directive evolving from an administrative tool to a more unilateral order.
Idiopathic chronic productive cough and response to open‐label macrolide therapy: An observational study
Authors: Martin Matthew J. , Lee Helen , Clayton Carly , Pointon Kate , Soomro Irshad , Shaw Dominick E. , Harrison Tim W.
Published: February 2019

Background and objective

Adult patients with chronic productive cough of unknown cause are commonly seen in respiratory clinics. We have previously described a subgroup of these patients who have a short‐lived response to standard antibiotic treatment but a prolonged response to 3 months of low‐dose azithromycin therapy.

Methods

This observational study describes the physiological, radiological and pathological features of this patient cohort along with their response to a 12‐week open‐label trial of 250 mg azithromycin thrice weekly.

Results

A total of 30 subjects with a mean age of 57 were recruited. The majority demonstrated airway dilatation on high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan without evidence of established bronchiectasis (n = 21) and non‐specific chronic inflammatory changes on bronchial biopsy (n = 15/17). Twenty‐nine subjects completed 3 months of azithromycin with a significant improvement in median Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) score (−6.3 points, P < 0.00001), reduction in median 24‐h sputum volume (−5.8 mL, P = 0.0003) and improvement in sputum colour (P = 0.003). Patients responsive to azithromycin (n = 22) demonstrated neutrophilic or paucigranulocytic airway inflammation, whereas five subjects with eosinophilic airways inflammation did not respond symptomatically to azithromycin.

Conclusion

We describe a cohort of patients with chronic productive cough not adequately described by existing disease labels whose symptoms responded well to low‐dose azithromycin. Many of the features are similar to the paediatric condition protracted bacterial bronchitis.
Building an Interdisciplinary Team for Disaster Response Research: A Data‐Driven Approach
Authors: Ge Yue “Gurt” , Zobel Christopher W. , Murray‐Tuite Pamela , Nateghi Roshanak , Wang Haizhong
Published: February 2019

Building an interdisciplinary team is critical to disaster response research as it often deals with acute onset events, short decision horizons, constrained resources, and uncertainties related to rapidly unfolding response environments.  This article examines three teaming mechanisms for interdisciplinary disaster response research, including ad hoc and/or grant proposal driven teams, research center or institute based teams, and teams oriented by matching expertise toward long‐term collaborations. Using hurricanes as the response context, it further examines several types of critical data that require interdisciplinary collaboration on collection, integration, and analysis. Last, suggesting a data‐driven approach to engaging multiple disciplines, the article advocates building interdisciplinary teams for disaster response research with a long‐term goal and an integrated research protocol.
Whose Risk? Why Did the U.S. Public Ignore Information About the Ebola Outbreak?
Authors: Yang Janet Z.
Published: February 2019

To test a possible boundary condition for the risk information seeking and processing (RISP) model, this study experimentally manipulates risk perception related to the 2014 Ebola outbreak in a nationally representative sample. Multiple‐group structural equation modeling results indicate that psychological distance was negatively related to systematic processing in the high‐risk condition. In the low‐risk condition, psychological distance was positively related to heuristic processing; negative attitude toward media coverage dampened people's need for information, which subsequently influenced information processing. Risk perception elicited more fear, which led to greater information insufficiency and more heuristic processing in the low‐risk condition. In contrast, sadness was consistently related to information processing in both conditions. Model fit statistics also show that the RISP model provides a better fit to data when risk perception is elevated. Further, this study contributes to our understanding of the role of discrete emotions in motivating information processing.
Subsidizing wages or supplementing transfers? The politics and ambiguity of in‐work benefits
Authors: Clasen Jochen
Published: February 2019

In‐work benefits (IWB) have become mainstream social policy programmes in modern welfare states. Aimed at employment promotion as well as poverty reduction, their introduction and expansion have been supported by both centre‐right and centre‐left governments. However, the article argues that policy positions towards IWB are essentially unstable. Political preferences can alter fast, with the same actors advocating IWB growth at one time and containment at another. In part, this is influenced not only by prevailing socio‐economic conditions but also by the institutional shape of IWBs, their interaction with complementary policies, and their inherently ambiguous nature. Characterized by multiple aims, IWBs occasionally offer political opportunities but often create challenges and even confound policymaking. Thus, the understanding of the politics of IWB requires a careful consideration of the particular properties of concrete IWBs and the ways in which they relate to other policy arenas. The article discusses this with reference to relevant debates and reforms in Germany.
Bilateral enucleation in dogs: A review of owner perceptions and satisfaction
Authors: Hamzianpour Negar , Smith Kinley , Dawson Charlotte , Rhodes Michael
Published: February 2019

Purpose

To evaluate owner perceptions of the quality of life of their dogs before and after bilateral enucleation and to assess owner satisfaction with the procedure.

Methods

Medical records of 72 dogs from the Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service (49 dogs) and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC, 23 dogs) that had undergone bilateral enucleation, either in one procedure or at different times, between April 2008 (Willows) or 2012 (RVC) and April 2017, were reviewed. Owners were initially telephoned to determine owner satisfaction, followed by a postal visual analogue scale (VAS) questionnaire evaluating perceptions of their dog's quality of life before and after the bilateral enucleation. Statistical evaluation included Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests and Chi‐squared analysis.

Results

Of the 72 cases identified, 63 owners (88%) were contacted by telephone and 60 owners (83%) also completed theVASquestionnaire. The mean age at the time of the second or bilateral enucleation was 8.47 years (range 7.1 months‐14.5 years). Cross‐breeds (n = 12, 17%) and Jack Russell Terriers (n = 7, 10%) were the two most represented breeds. Glaucoma was the most common reason for enucleation (139/144 eyes, 97%). Most owners (57/63, 90%) were satisfied with the surgery and would consent to the procedure again. Statistically significant improvements in owner perceptions of their dog's pain level, reaction to facial/ocular palpation, activity levels, and quality of life were identified post‐enucleation.

Conclusions

Following bilateral enucleation, owners were satisfied with the procedure and perceived their dogs to have a good quality of life.
Comparative efficacy of topical oclacitinib 0.1% and tacrolimus 0.01% in canine keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Authors: de Oliveira Juliana Kravetz , Williams David L. , Bollmann Camila , de Seabra Nathália Mendonça , Bortolini Mariza , Montiani‐Ferreira Fabiano
Published: February 2019

Objective

To assess the efficacy of 0.1% oclacitinib as a single agent, and in combination with tacrolimus 0.01%, for the control of ophthalmic signs of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs.

Animals studied

Thirty‐two dogs (57 eyes) diagnosed with idiopathic KCS were included. Inclusion criteria were Schirmer Tear Test 1 (STT‐1) values <15 mm/min and concurrent clinical signs such as ocular hyperemia and discharge.

Procedures

The animals were submitted to a randomized, open‐label, 5‐week study and divided into 3 treatment groups treated with the following ophthalmic solutions: (a) 0.1% oclacitinib, (b) 0.1% oclacitinib +0.01% tacrolimus, and (c) 0.01% tacrolimus. Eye drops were instilled twice daily (12‐hour intervals). At each follow‐up examination, STT‐1, clinical signs, and potential drug side effects were assessed.

Results

Oclacitinib did not significantly improve STT‐1 values or clinical scores. Tacrolimus alone and in combination with oclacitinib increased mean STT‐1 values by 11.84 ± 5.2 and 12.46 ± 5.3 mm/min, respectively (P = 0.0001). Clinical scores of ocular discharge and hyperemia also improved significantly in both groups receiving treatment with tacrolimus (P < 0.05). However, addition of oclacitinib to tacrolimus provided no additional improvement over tacrolimus alone.

Conclusions

Topical 0.1% oclacitinib twice daily is not effective in controlling the ocular signs of KCS in dogs. 0.01% tacrolimus increased STT‐1 values significantly and could potentially be used as a treatment for mild‐to‐moderate cases of KCS. Synergism between drugs did not occur, and therefore the use of oclacitinib is not justified in cases of canine KCS.
High flux nanofibrous membranes for colored effluent treatment
Authors: Khan Mohammadi Sedigheh , Gharehaghaji Ali Akbar , Hosseini Abdolkarim , Banitaba Seyedeh Nooshin
Published: February 2019

In this study, polyamide 66 (PA) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were electrospun with various arrangements on substrate surface. Spunbond–Meltblown–Spunbond polypropylene nonwoven (SMS) and carbon foam were applied as substrate to evaluate how filtration efficiency and flux is affected. In addition to substrate, the influence of polymer concentration and layer arrangement were studied. Taghuchi design was utilized for optimum structure recognition. A vat dye was used to study the filtration efficiency. The results have revealed that substrate type plays as the most effective factor among all parameters. SMS substrate was led to finer fibers fabrication, smaller pores, and therefore, superior filtration efficiency and higher flux. Although layer arrangement showed less impression than substrate, it was more effective than polymer concentration. Furthermore study on the base of Taghuchi design showed that by applying PAN/PA/PAN composite nanofibrous membrane on SMS substrate, a high filtration efficiency can be achieved by reduction of 99.58 and 86.13% turbidity and chemical oxygen demand, respectively.
Emergence and viability of teosinte seeds (Zea mays ssp. mexicana ad int.) subjected to sheep digestion
Authors: Cirujeda A , Pardo G , Marí A I , Joy M , Casasús I
Published: February 2019

A few years ago, a new invasive weed was found in Spanish maize fields grazed by sheep after harvest and identified as a subform of teosinte (Zea mays ssp. mexicana ad int). If teosinte seeds survive digestion, then the weed could spread via sheep manure. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of this process on the emergence and viability of teosinte seeds. In an in sacco study, seeds were introduced into the rumen of fistulised wethers and extracted after 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. Then, seed emergence was recorded and the viability of non‐germinated seeds was analysed. In an ‘intake and in vivo’ study, lambs were kept in metabolic cages and fed for 6 days with 200 g teosinte seeds and ears. The daily faecal production was individually collected, seeds were recovered and viability was tested (15 days). In the in sacco trials, a decrease in teosinte viability was observed after remaining for 48 h or more in the rumen. In the ‘intake and in vivo’ trial, between 0.1% and 3% of the ingested seeds that were excreted were viable. Uncoated seeds that lost their exocarp during the mastication and digestion processes were less viable (18%) than intact excreted seeds (74%). The last viable and intact seeds appeared 4 and 6 days after intake respectively. In areas with teosinte infestation, sheep grazing on maize stubble should be avoided and, in case of ingestion, sheep should be kept isolated for 4–6 days to avoid the spread of this invasive weed.
A Transformation Method to Generate the Workspace of an n(3RRS) Serial–Parallel Manipulator
Authors: Guo Hongwei , Zhao Chong , Li Bing , Liu Rongqiang , Deng Zongquan , Tian Jin
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a transformation method to generate the workspace of an n(3RRS) serial–parallel manipulator (S–PM). Firstly, the boundary of the workspace of the 3RRS parallel manipulator (PM) is obtained using the boundary search method and verified by MATLAB/SimMechanics simulation. Secondly, the workspace of the 2(3RRS) S–PM is obtained using the proposed method and verified by MATLAB/SimMechanics simulation. Finally, the workspace of the 3(3RRS) S–PM is obtained using the proposed method. The results indicate that the n(3RRS) S–PM can significantly expand its workspace with the increase in the number of PMs connected in series, and the proposed method can generate the workspaces of n(3RRS) S–PMs efficiently with the advantages of simple operation, high efficiency, and high accuracy. The proposed method is applicable to all S–PMs that are composed of PMs, and it provides a reference for solving the workspaces of other types of redundantly hybrid manipulators.