bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forty Years of Assessing Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in Infants: What Have We Learned?
Authors: Garrison Laura , Morley Sarah , Chambers Christina D. , Bakhireva Ludmila N.
Published: June 2019

It has been known for over 4 decades that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can adversely affect neurodevelopment and behavior (NDB). Yet, early detection of altered NDB due to PAE continues to present a major clinical challenge. Identification of altered NDB in the first 2 years of life, before higher‐order cognitive processes develop, invites early interventions for affected children to improve long‐term outcomes. Studies published in English from January of 1980 to July of 2018 were identified in PubMed/MEDLINE. The review focused on prospective birth cohort studies which used standardized NDB assessments in children up to 2 years of age, wherein PAE was the main exposure and NDB was the main outcome. NDB was categorized into the domains of neurocognitive, adaptive, and self‐regulation based on the 2016 Updated Clinical Guidelines for Diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. An initial search resulted in 1,867 articles for which we reviewed abstracts; 114 were selected for full‐text review; and 3 additional abstracts were identified through review of references in eligible publications. Thirty‐one publications met criteria and were included: of these, 24 reported neurocognitive outcomes, 24 reported adaptive behavior outcomes, and 12 reported outcomes in the domain of self‐regulation. Although self‐regulation was assessed in the fewest number of studies, 8/12 (75%) reported PAE‐associated deficits. In contrast, results were mixed for the other 2 domains: 13/24 (54%) of the selected studies that included neurocognitive outcomes showed poorer performance following PAE, and 8/24 (33%) studies that assessed adaptive functioning found significant differences between PAE and comparison infants. There is considerable evidence to support the value of early‐life assessments of infant NDB when PAE is known or suspected. More studies focusing on infant self‐regulation, in particular, are needed to determine the utility of early evaluation of this critical developmental domain in infants with PAE.
Reduction in hospital admissions with an early computed tomography scan: results of an outpatient management protocol for uncomplicated acute diverticulitis
Authors: Juszczyk Karolina , Ireland Kelsey , Thomas Bev , Kroon Hidde M. , Hollington Paul
Published: June 2019

Background

There is increasing evidence that uncomplicated acute diverticulitis (UAD) can be safely and effectively managed as an outpatient. The aim of the current study was to evaluate if an early computed tomography (CT) scan in the emergency department (ED) can reduce the number of hospital admissions when UAD is diagnosed, without compromising patient safety.

Methods

A protocol was introduced in 2015, whereby patients with suspected diverticulitis receive a CT scan on presentation to the ED and be considered for discharge home on oral antibiotics if UAD is confirmed. A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database was conducted for all patients presenting to the ED with acute diverticulitis over a 4‐year period: 2 years prior (May 2013–April 2015; pre‐protocol) and 2 years after implementation of the protocol (May 2015–April 2017; post‐protocol).

Results

A total of 1147 patients presented to the ED, who were diagnosed with diverticulitis, and UAD was confirmed in 552 patients. There was a significant decrease in hospital admissions for UAD in the post‐protocol group from 93% to 39% (P < 0.0001) and in the total number of hospital admission days from 602 to 370 (P < 0.0001). There was no increase in representations between both periods (7% versus 6%; P = 0.49).

Conclusion

Definitive diagnosis by early CT scan in the ED decreased the admission rate for UAD by more than 50%, and significantly reduced the total number of hospital days without resulting in an increase in representations. UAD can safely and effectively be treated in an outpatient setting leading to a reduction in the burden on the health system.
The morphology, development, and evolution of the head of fishes: Foundational studies for a renaissance of comparative morphology
Authors: Hilton Eric J. , Warth Peter , Konstantinidis Peter
Published: June 2019

Acta Zoologica has played a key role as a publishing outlet for advancing zoological knowledge since its foundation in 1920 by Nils Holmgren. With the journal celebrating its centennial, we have assembled a virtual issue that celebrates some of the morphological highlights from the history of Acta Zoologica, which has been a venue for precise and detailed anatomical descriptions of the morphology and ontogeny of major vertebrate taxa. Because our own focus of research has been the evolution of the musculoskeletal system of fishes, a bias toward these topics in our selection is readily apparent. However, these papers also reflect the tradition established by Holmgren's “Studies on the Heads of Fishes,” published in Acta Zoologica. We hope that by bringing together Holmgren's “Studies,” along with a selection of other papers from across the history of the journal will inspire the continued growth of comparative vertebrate anatomy, especially in an era where advanced technologies are available. We discuss various author's approaches to morphology, including Holmgren (1877–1954), Torsten Pehrson (1887–1970), and Alexej Nikolajevich Sewertzoff (1866–1936). The foundation that was laid by these and other workers offers the basis for continued investigation and testing of hypotheses. We feel that the true testament to the power of comparative anatomy is that even after so much study and the volume of baseline data available, new and important findings continue to be made from the careful observation of anatomical form.
High and variable population prevalence of HLA‐B*56:02 in indigenous Australians and relation to phenytoin‐associated drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms
Authors: Somogyi Andrew A. , Barratt Daniel T. , Phillips Elizabeth J. , Moore Kylies , Ilyas Fahmida , Gabb Genevieve M.
Published: June 2019

Phenytoin drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) in 3 Aboriginal Australians positive for HLA‐B*56:02 has been previously reported. We report the allele frequency of HLA‐B*56:02 in 2 South Australian populations, 1 Aboriginal (4.8%, 95% confidence interval 2.4–7.8%) and the other European (0%). We compared the frequency with publicly available information on HLA‐B*56:02 status in other Indigenous Australian (n = 4) and European Australian cohorts (n = 1). In the Indigenous Australian cohorts, HLA‐B*56:02 allele frequency ranged from 1.3 to 19%. We also describe an additional case of phenytoin DRESS (RegiSCAR DRESS score 7) in an Aboriginal Australian that was associated with HLA‐B*56:02 and with CYP2C9*1/*3 genotype. In Aboriginal Australians, phenytoin DRESS appears distinctly linked to HLA‐B*56:02 with an allele carriage rate substantially higher than in Europeans, but also with considerable regional variation. Investigations of human leucocyte antigen and other contributing genes and severe adverse drug reactions in understudied non‐European populations are required to optimize safe medication use and inform risk mitigation strategies.
Perturbation of the immune cells and prenatal neurogenesis by the triplication of the Erg gene in mouse models of Down syndrome
Authors: Ishihara Keiichi , Shimizu Ryohei , Takata Kazuyuki , Kawashita Eri , Amano Kenji , Shimohata Atsushi , Low Donovan , Nabe Takeshi , Sago Haruhiko , Alexander Warren S. , Ginhoux Florent , Yamakawa Kazuhiro , Akiba Satoshi
Published: June 2019

Some mouse models of Down syndrome (DS), including Ts1Cje mice, exhibit impaired prenatal neurogenesis with yet unknown molecular mechanism. To gain insights into the impaired neurogenesis, a transcriptomic and flow cytometry analysis of E14.5 Ts1Cje embryo brain was performed. Our analysis revealed that the neutrophil and monocyte ratios in the CD45‐positive hematopoietic cells were relatively increased, in agreement with the altered expression of inflammation/immune‐related genes, in Ts1Cje embryonic brain, whereas the relative number of brain macrophages was decreased in comparison to wild‐type mice. Similar upregulation of inflammation‐associated mRNAs was observed in other DS mouse models, with variable trisomic region lengths. We used genetic manipulation to assess the contribution of Erg, a trisomic gene in these DS models, known to regulation hemato‐immune cells. The perturbed proportions of immune cells in Ts1Cje mouse brain were restored in Ts1Cje‐Erg+/+/Mld2 mice, which are disomic for functional Erg but otherwise trisomic on a Ts1Cje background. Moreover, the embryonic neurogenesis defects observed in Ts1Cje cortex were reduced in Ts1Cje‐Erg+/+/Mld2 embryos. Our findings suggest that Erg gene triplication contributes to the dysregulation of the homeostatic proportion of the populations of immune cells in the embryonic brain and decreased prenatal cortical neurogenesis in the prenatal brain with DS.
Neutrophil extracellular trap‐microparticle complexes trigger neutrophil recruitment via high‐mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1)‐toll‐like receptors(TLR2)/TLR4 signalling
Authors: Wang Yongzhi , Du Feifei , Hawez Avin , Mörgelin Matthias , Thorlacius Henrik
Published: June 2019

Background and Purpose

Recent data suggest that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) form aggregates with microparticles (MPs) upon activation of neutrophils although the functional role of NET‐MP complexes remain elusive. The objective of this study was to examine the role of NET‐MP aggregates in leukocyte recruitment in vivo.

Experimental Approach

PMA stimulation of murine bone marrow neutrophils generated NET‐MP complexes and pretreatment with caspase and calpain inhibitors resulted in the formation of NETs depleted of MPs. Leukocyte–endothelium interactions were studied by using intravital microscopy of the mouse cremaster microcirculation.

Key Results

Intrascrotal injection of NET‐MP aggregates dose‐dependently increased leukocyte recruitment. In contrast, leukocyte responses were markedly reduced after administration of NETs depleted of MPs. Neutrophil depletion abolished intravascular and extravascular leukocytes in response to challenge with NET‐MP complexes. Electron microscopy revealed that NET‐associated MPs express HMGB1. Notably, immunoneutralization of HMGB1 markedly decreased NET‐MP complex‐induced neutrophil accumulation. Moreover, inhibition of TLR2 and TLR4 significantly reduced neutrophil recruitment in response to NET‐MP aggregates.

Conclusions and Implications

These data show that NET‐MP complexes are potent inducers of neutrophil recruitment, which is dependent on HMGB1 expressed on MPs and mediated via TLR2 and TLR4. Blocking MP binding to NETs or downstream inhibition of the HMGB1‐TLR2/TLR4 axis might provide useful targets to attenuating NET‐dependent tissue damage in acute inflammation.
Prenatal Risk Predicts Preschooler Executive Function: A Cascade Model
Authors: Camerota Marie , Willoughby Michael T.
Published: June 2019

Little research has considered whether prenatal experience contributes to executive function (EF) development above and beyond postnatal experience. This study tests direct, mediated, and moderated associations between prenatal risk factors and preschool EF and IQ in a longitudinal sample of 1,292 children from the Family Life Project. A composite of prenatal risk factors (i.e., low birth weight, prematurity, maternal emotional problems, maternal prepregnancy obesity, and obstetric complications) significantly predicted EF and IQ at age 3, above quality of the postnatal environment. This relationship was indirect, mediated through infant general cognitive abilities. Quality of the postnatal home and child‐care environments did not moderate the cascade model. These findings highlight the role of prenatal experience as a contributor to individual differences in cognitive development.
Increased versus stable dose of inhaled corticosteroids for asthma exacerbations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Yu , He Jialing , Yuan Yulai , Faramand Andrew , Fang Fang , Ji Hongming
Published: June 2019

Background

Increasing the dose of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) is commonly used at early signs of loss of asthma control. However, the potential benefits and harms of this strategy remain unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare increased dose with stable dose of ICS among adults and children with asthma.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to August 02, 2018. Randomized clinical trials comparing increased doses vs stable doses of ICS for home management of asthma exacerbations in adults or children were included.

Results

The analyses included 8 trials totalling 3866 patients. Four trials were judged as low risk of bias, three were unclear risk, and one was ranked as high risk. Increased dose of ICS was associated with a significantly reduced risk of treatment failure compared with stable dose (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.70‐0.97, I2 = 6%; 314 (281 to 351) vs 358 events per 1000 patients; moderate‐quality evidence). There was no significant difference in unscheduled physician visits or hospital admission between increased or stable dose of ICS. However, increased dose of ICS increased the risk of non‐serious adverse events (OR 3.50, 95% CI 1.93‐6.35, I2 = 0%) but not serious adverse events.

Conclusions

Current evidence of moderate quality supports increasing the dose of ICS as part of a self‐initiated action plan to reduce risk of requiring a course of systemic corticosteroids in people with an asthma exacerbation. However, we did not find evidence for an impact on hospital admissions or unscheduled physician visits, and increased ICS dose increased risk of non‐serious adverse events.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by glucose sensors in type 1 diabetes patients
Authors: Hyry Heli S. I. , Liippo Jussi P. , Virtanen Hannele M.
Published: June 2019

Background

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by glucose sensors has become an increasing problem. Contact allergies to isobornyl acrylate, colophonium, ethyl cyanoacrylate and N,N‐dimethylacrylamide have been reported. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the prevalence of sensor‐related dermatitis and detailed patient histories.

Objectives

To evaluate diabetes patients who have developed allergic contact dermatitis caused by glucose sensors.

Patients and methods

Seventy patients with suspected contact allergy to glucose sensors referred to university hospital dermatology clinics in southern Finland were patch tested with the baseline series, an isobornyl acrylate dilution series, and a number of other acrylates. Atopic constitution, contact allergies, the severity of the dermatitis and the ability to continue with the same or another type of sensor were recorded.

Results

Positive patch test reactions to isobornyl acrylate were seen in 51 of 63 (81%) Freestyle Libre users. Colophonium or its derivatives gave positive reactions in five of seven Medtronic Enlite users. The median duration of sensor use before dermatitis was 6 months. The estimated prevalences of contact allergy to sensor adhesives were 0.7% for Freestyle Libre and 0.8% for Enlite.

Conclusions

We suggest that patients who have difficulties in finding a tolerable glucose sensor or an insulin pump should be patch tested.
Reduction in surgical stoma rates in Crohn's disease: a population‐based time trend analysis
Authors: Ma C. , Almutairdi A. , Tanyingoh D. , Seow C. H. , Novak K. L. , Lu C. , Panaccione R. , Kaplan G. G. , Kotze P. G.
Published: June 2019

Aim

Trends in surgical rates for Crohn's disease (CD) in the biological era are controversial. We aim to assess modern trends in the formation rates of surgical stomas.

Method

Population‐based surveillance in the Calgary Health Zone (CHZ), Canada, was conducted between 1 April 2002 and 31 March 2011, using the Discharge Abstract Database to identify adult patients with CD admitted to hospital and treated with surgical stoma formation (n = 545). Annual stoma incidence was calculated by dividing the number of incident stomas by the prevalence of CD in the CHZ. Time trend analysis of the stoma‐formation rate was performed, expressed as annual percentage change (APC) with 95% CI. Stoma‐formation rates were stratified according to procedure (emergency vs elective) and duration of stoma [temporary (reversed within 2 years of formation) vs permanent].

Results

The overall rate of stoma formation between 2002 and 2011 showed a downwards trend, of a mean of 5.2% (95% CI: −8.5 to −1.8) per year, from a rate of 2.30 stomas/100 person‐years (PY) in 2002 to 1.51 stomas/100 PY in 2011. The rate of emergency stoma formation decreased significantly from 2002 to 2011 (mean APC = −9.4%; 95% CI: −15.6 to −2.8), while the rate of elective ostomies essentially showed no change (mean APC = −0.9%; 95% CI: −5.3 to 3.8). The rate of temporary stoma formation decreased significantly, by 4.6% (95% CI: −7.3 to −1.8) per year, while permanent stoma formation was stable (APC = 1.0%; 95% CI: −4.0 to +6.3).

Conclusion

A reduction in the overall rate of stoma formation in CD has been driven by fewer emergency stomas, although rates of permanent stoma have remained stable.
Dynamic formation of cellular aggregates of chondrocytes and mesenchymal stem cells in spinner flask
Authors: He Huimin , He Qing , Xu Feiyue , Zhou Yan , Ye Zhaoyang , Tan Wen‐Song
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Cellular aggregates are readily applicable in cell‐based therapy. The effects of agitation and inoculation density on the aggregation of cells in spinner flask and the molecular mechanism of aggregation were investigated.

Materials and methods

The aggregation kinetics of cells in spinner flask was evaluated with bovine articular chondrocytes (bACs), rabbit bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs) and their mixture. The morphology of cellular aggregates was studied with scanning electron microscopy and gene expression of cell adhesion‐related molecules was analysed.

Results

It was shown that suspension culture in spinner flask induced the aggregation of bACs and rMSCs. Both cells exhibited increased aggregation rate and aggregate size with decreasing agitation rate and increasing cell inoculation density. Additionally, aggregate size increased with extended culture time. By analysing gene expression of integrin β1 and cadherin, it was indicated that these molecules were potentially involved in the aggregation process of bACs and rMSCs, respectively. Aggregates composed of both bACs and rMSCs were also prepared, showing rMSCs in the core and bACs in the periphery.

Conclusions

Cellular aggregates were prepared in dynamic suspension culture using spinner flask, the key parameters to the aggregation process were identified, and the molecular mechanism of aggregation was revealed. This would lay a solid foundation for the large‐scale production of cellular aggregates for cell‐based therapy, such as cartilage regeneration.
Does intra‐operative verapamil administration in kidney transplantation improve graft function
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Caldas Mauricio , Sharma Nitin , Bidnur Samir , Ghosh Sunita , Todd Gerald T. , Moore Ronald B.
Published: June 2019

The role of the calcium channel blocker (verapamil) in kidney transplant is controversial. Verapamil has been hypothesized to mitigate ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) to the allograft. Herein, we evaluated the effect of intra‐operative verapamil administration in a large cohort of kidney transplants. Total 684 transplants were performed during 2007‐2017. Of these, 348 (50.9%) transplants received verapamil (2.5 mg) Ver (+), and 336 (49.1%) did not, Ver (−). Based on the donor type, the study was divided into three groups; living donor (LD) (N = 270), neurological determination of death (NDD) (N = 394), and donation after cardiac death (DCD) (N = 20). Ver (−) subgroup had more diabetic recipients as compared to Ver (+) subgroup in LD and NDD groups (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found for delayed graft function in any of the group (P > 0.05). Cold ischemia time and dialysis requirement were significantly higher in Ver (+) LD and NDD groups, respectively. Except for DCD group, there was no significant difference in eGFR (mL/min) immediately and 6 months after kidney transplant in any of the groups. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to account for potential confounders, but verapamil administration did not improve graft function in any of the groups (P > 0.05) after transplant.
Mental health in South Sudan: a case for community‐based support
Authors: Goldsmith Aidan , Cockcroft‐McKay Caitlin
Published: June 2019

This paper2 provides a snapshot of the mental health situation in South Sudan between 2013 and 2016, taking account of the personal reflections of both authors who were engaged in mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS)3 programming in the country at this time.4 It begins by presenting an overview of MHPSS activities from this period, including governmental and non‐governmental organisation (NGO) services, and relevant research and coordination mechanisms. It goes on to illustrate the challenges to the provision of support, as well as the overarching structural, governance, and human resource constraints faced by the sector. Finally, recommendations are put forward for improving services and care for people suffering from psychosocial and mental health issues, as well as suggestions for areas of focus in the future. The importance of an integrated, community‐based model is emphasised, and opportunities for organisations engaged in reconciliation efforts and mental health service provision to collaborate are proposed.
Mental health and media links based on five essential elements to promote psychosocial support for victims: the case of the earthquake in Chile in 2010
Authors: Puente Soledad , Marín Humberto , Álvarez Pamela P. , Flores Pablo M. , Grassau Daniela
Published: June 2019

This paper reviews the role of news with respect to the mental health of a population exposed to a disaster. It is based on the five essential elements of psychosocial care presented by Stevan E. Hobfoll et al. (2007) that can be introduced after a potentially traumatic event: promoting a sense of safety, calming, self and collective efficacy, connectedness, and hope. This study developed a method to relate these elements to television coverage and applied it to the stories (n=1,169) aired by the main networks in Chile in the 72 hours after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck on 27 February 2010. Of the five elements, promoting a sense of safety occurred most often (82.72 per cent), whereas the others were barely present (less than 10 per cent). The study argues that these elements can increase the possibility of framing the news, given that the audience watching can also be affected by a disaster.
The political economy of ‘ordered competition’ in European telecoms
Authors: Trubnikov Dmitrii , Trubnikova Ekaterina
Published: June 2019

This article discusses the current efforts of policymakers to spur development of telecommunications infrastructure. It argues that the policy of ‘ordered competition’, widely implemented in this sector, has formed a highly beneficial environment for major players, who have the ability to influence the regulatory machine. The system protects the status quo, impedes the efficiency of the market process and allows unnecessary public subsidy of the industry's development. The main alternative to this regulatory regime is structural reform of the industry and the formation of a genuinely competitive marketplace which could function without ex ante regulation.
Analysis of the therapeutic effect of transesophageal echocardiography‐guided percutaneous device closure of atrial septal defects via the right internal jugular vein in children
Authors: Gao Minglei , Li Zipu , Zhao Ye , Wen Ping
Published: June 2019

Background

Traditional X‐ray‐guided transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs) via the right femoral vein carries a risk of radiation damage, which is greatly exacerbated by age and vascular conditions. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guidance for the closure procedure not only broadens the indications of interventional therapy for ASDs but also avoids radiation exposure.

Purpose

To assess the value of TEE‐guided ASD device closure via the right internal jugular vein (RIJV) in children.

Methods

Nineteen pediatric patients with secondary ASD underwent TEE‐guided ASD device closure via the RIJV from July 22, 2015 to July 19, 2017. After the RIJV was successfully accessed, one Fustar curve‐adjustable delivery sheath was inserted. The implant depth was adjusted, and the tip of the sheath was curved to facilitate passage through the ASD for the delivery and release of the occluder. TEE was used to guide the entire procedure.

Results

In all 19 patients, the ASDs were successfully closed and the occluder was confirmed to have a stable position and good shape, with no residual shunt. During the follow‐up period (2 months to 2 years), no pericardial effusion, thrombosis, tachyarrhythmia, atrioventricular block, or other complications were observed.

Conclusions

An adjustable delivery sheath can be used to treat ASD via the RIJV. This procedure has varied indications, and its advantages include a short operation path, procedural accuracy, minimal trauma, and quick recovery, especially for young patients with large ASDs and cases in which a femoral vein approach is difficult. The procedure has great clinical significance and merits attention.
Graduate mobility: Where do dentistry graduates choose to practise?
Authors: Veerasamy Arthi , Loch Carolina , Adam Lee , Brunton Paul Anthony
Published: June 2019

Background and objective

The international higher education market has grown and developed rapidly. International students generate attractive income for host universities, and gaining an international education benefits students in an increasingly globalised world. However, there is little research regarding where international students intend to work and settle beyond graduation. This study investigated where dentistry students intended to practise after graduation, and whether international students who graduated between 2001 and 2016 are currently practising in their host country (New Zealand) or have migrated overseas.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was used to investigate current students’ intended destination of practice after graduation. Additionally, names of international graduates since 2001 were matched against the 2017 register of practitioners to determine if they were currently registered to practise in their host country. A frequency and bivariate analysis was conducted.

Results

Almost 64% of current international students indicated their intention to stay in their host country after graduation. However, only 22% of graduates since 2001 were currently practising in New Zealand. The number of international graduates who registered to practise in New Zealand increased between 2001 and 2016.

Conclusion

Less than one‐quarter of international graduates were currently practising in their host country; however, longitudinal data showed that this is an increasing trend. These findings can be used to inform how we might prepare current and future graduates for both local and globalised labour markets.
Pathogenic heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HIT) antibodies determined by rapid functional flow cytometry
Authors: Cipok Michal , Tomer Aaron , Elalamy Ismail , Kirgner Ilya , Dror Naama , Kay Sigi , Deutsch Varda R.
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Reliable diagnosis of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HIT) is mandatory for patient management, yet prompt determination of pathogenic antibodies remains an unmet clinical challenge. Common immunoassays carry inherent limitations and functional assays which detect antibody‐mediated platelet activation are not usually readily available to routine laboratories, especially the serotonin release assay (SRA), being technically demanding, time consuming, and requires high level expertise. To overcome some of these limitations, we have developed a practical functional flow cytometric assay (FCA) for routine clinical use.

Methods

A simple FCA is described which avoids platelet manipulation, is highly specific and sensitive compared with SRA, and provides rapid results.

Results

Of the 650 consecutive samples, from HIT‐suspected patients, 99 (15.3%) were positive by the PaGIA Heparin/PF4 immunoassay and 31 (4.8%) by FCA. Average platelet activation was 11‐fold higher in PaGIA+/FCA+ vs PaGIA−/FCA− samples. Of 21 SRA‐positive samples, 19 were FCA‐positive (relative sensitivity 90.5%), and of 42 SRA‐negative samples, 40 were FCA‐negative (relative specificity 95.2%). The FCA showed significantly higher correlation with the clinical presentation of HIT (4Ts score) performed on 182 patients, compared with PaGIA Heparin/PF4 (ROC‐plot analysis, AUC 0.93 vs 0.63, P < 0.001). At a 92% sensitivity, the assay specificity was 96%.

Conclusions

The present FCA is practical for routine testing, providing prompt reliable results for initial diagnosis and confirmation, to effectively assist in HIT patient management.
Thermal property values of a central Iowa soil as functions of soil water content and bulk density or of soil air content
Authors: Tong Bing , Kool Dilia , Heitman Joshua L. , Sauer Thomas J. , Gao Zhiqiu , Horton Robert
Published: June 2019

Soil thermal properties play important roles in dynamic heat and mass transfer processes, and they vary with soil water content (θ) and bulk density (ρ
b). Both θ and ρ
b change with time, particularly in recently tilled soil. However, few studies have addressed the full extent of soil thermal property changes with θ and ρ
b. The objective of this study is to examine how changes in ρ
b with time after tillage impact soil thermal properties (volumetric heat capacity, C
v, thermal diffusivity, k, and thermal conductivity, λ). The study provides thermal property values as functions of θ and ρ
b and of air content (n
air) on undisturbed soil cores obtained at selected times following tillage. Heat pulse probe measurements of thermal properties were obtained on each soil core at saturated, partially saturated (θ at pressure head of −50 kPa) and oven‐dry conditions. Generally, k and λ increased with increasing ρ
b at the three water conditions. The C
v increased as ρ
b increased in the oven‐dry and unsaturated conditions and decreased as ρ
b increased in the saturated condition. For a given θ, a larger ρ
b was associated with larger thermal property values, especially for λ. The figures of C
v, k and λ versus θ and ρ
b, as well as C
v, k and λ versus n
air, represented the range of soil conditions following tillage. Trends in the relationships of thermal property values with θ and ρ
b were described by 3‐D surfaces, whereas each thermal property had a linear relationship with n
air. Clearly, recently tilled soil thermal property values were quite dynamic temporally due to varying θ and ρ
b. The dynamic soil thermal property values should be considered in soil heat and mass transfer models either as 3‐D functions of θ and ρ
b or as linear functions of n
air.

Highlights

Thermal property values for a range of θ and ρ
b were measured on undisturbed soil cores.

Freshly tilled soil thermal property values were quite dynamic temporally.

The thermal property values of a tilled soil were described as 3‐D surfaces with θ and ρ
b.

The thermal property values of a tilled soil varied linearly with n
air.
Fast attrition of springtail communities by experimental drought and richness–decomposition relationships across Europe
Authors: Peguero Guille , Sol Daniel , Arnedo Miquel , Petersen Henning , Salmon Sandrine , Ponge Jean‐François , Maspons Joan , Emmett Bridget , Beier Claus , Schmidt Inger K. , Tietema Albert , De Angelis Paolo , Kovács‐Láng Edit , Kröel‐Dulay György , Estiarte Marc , Bartrons Mireia , Holmstrup Martin , Janssens Ivan A. , Peñuelas Josep
Published: June 2019

Soil fauna play a fundamental role on key ecosystem functions like organic matter decomposition, although how local assemblages are responding to climate change and whether these changes may have consequences to ecosystem functioning is less clear. Previous studies have revealed that a continued environmental stress may result in poorer communities by filtering out the most sensitive species. However, these experiments have rarely been applied to climate change factors combining multiyear and multisite standardized field treatments across climatically contrasting regions, which has limited drawing general conclusions. Moreover, other facets of biodiversity, such as functional and phylogenetic diversity, potentially more closely linked to ecosystem functioning, have been largely neglected. Here, we report that the abundance, species richness, phylogenetic diversity, and functional richness of springtails (Subclass Collembola), a major group of fungivores and detritivores, decreased within 4 years of experimental drought across six European shrublands. The loss of phylogenetic and functional richness was higher than expected by the loss of species richness, leading to communities of phylogenetically similar species sharing evolutionary conserved traits. Additionally, despite the great climatic differences among study sites, we found that taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional richness of springtail communities alone were able to explain up to 30% of the variation in annual decomposition rates. Altogether, our results suggest that the forecasted reductions in precipitation associated with climate change may erode springtail communities and likely other drought‐sensitive soil invertebrates, thereby retarding litter decomposition and nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
Genetic analysis reveals strong phylogeographical divergences within the Scarlet Macaw Ara macao
Authors: Schmidt Kari L. , Aardema Matthew L. , Amato George
Published: June 2019

Scarlet Macaws Ara macao have the largest geographical distribution of any Neotropical psittacine, occupying a variety of lowland forest habitats from Mexico to Brazil. Two subspecies, Ara macao macao and Ara macao cyanoptera, are currently recognized based on wing chord length and plumage coloration, with formal descriptions suggesting genetic introgression in southern Nicaragua and northern Costa Rica. The present study aimed to investigate the extent of genetic diversification within A. macao by analysing mitochondrial sequence data from contemporary and historical samples. Phylogenetic reconstruction and population aggregation analysis confirmed two distinct phylogeographical groups, with a high degree of intraspecific genetic structure and no evidence of a putative hybrid zone. Whole mitochondrial genome sequencing further confirmed substantial divergence (~ 1.8%) between the cyanoptera and macao lineages. These results demonstrate a separation of A. macao into two distinct evolutionary entities and highlight a non‐uniform distribution of intraspecific diversity, suggesting current conservation designations may warrant re‐evaluation.
Evaluation of an alternative model for the management of clinical risk in an adult acute psychiatric inpatient unit
Authors: Harrington Allison , Darke Hayley , Ennis Gary , Sundram Suresh
Published: June 2019

Despite their widespread use, typical visual observation practices are not evidence‐based and adverse events – such as self‐harm and absconding – still occur even under the most intense forms of observation. This study aimed to (i) develop and implement an engagement‐focused systematized model of clinical risk management in an adult acute psychiatric inpatient unit; and (ii) prospectively evaluate its effect on rates of violence, self‐harm, absconding, sexually inappropriate behaviour, and seclusion. A new model of engagement‐focused clinical risk management was developed using a participatory action research framework and implemented in an adult acute psychiatric inpatient unit. Using a mirror‐image design, rates of violence/aggression, self‐harm, absconding, sexually inappropriate behaviour, and seclusion were compared before and after implementation, and staff satisfaction levels were measured. The clinical engagement‐based model was introduced, and 1087 admissions before implementation (24 months) were compared with 965 admissions post‐implementation (18 months). The new model was associated with significantly reduced rates of absconding (pre: 10.5/1000 occupied bed days, 95% CI [9.0, 12.1] compared with post: 6.5/1000 occupied bed days [5.2, 8.1], P < 0.001) and seclusion (pre: 43.7/1000 occupied bed days, 95% CI [40.6, 46.9] compared with post: 30.9/1000 occupied bed days [27.9, 34.1], P < 0.0001). Rates of aggression, deliberate self‐harm, and sexually inappropriate behaviour were non‐significantly decreased. Findings suggest that this engagement‐focused model of clinical risk management in an adult psychiatric inpatient unit significantly reduced adverse patient events and was preferred by staff over current practice. Other psychiatric inpatient facilities may see a reduction in adverse events following the introduction of this well‐tolerated risk management model.
Board‐Level Employee Representation (BLER) and Firms’ Responses to Crisis
Authors: Gregorič Aleksandra , Rapp Marc Steffen
Published: June 2019

Short: We hypothesize that companies with board‐level employee representation (BLER) experience a lower probability of crisis‐induced dismissals than other firms. Theoretically, we link this effect to the employee directors’ ability to reduce the information asymmetry and moral hazard in employee–employer contracting, thereby facilitating the implementation of labor‐cost adjustments that are an alternative to workforce dismissals. We confirm our hypotheses by analyzing the behavior of Scandinavian public corporations with/without employee directors during the Great Recession.
Punishment for Mob‐based Harms: Expressing and Denouncing Mob Mentality
Authors: Bowden Sean , Sorial Sarah , Bourne Kylie
Published: June 2019

Larry May's and Kenneth Shockley's discussions of punishment for mob‐based harms fall back on the idea of individual mens rea. They recognise that the mens rea element is complicated by the fact that an individual's intentional actions in the context of mob activity have a collective dimension to them, either because they are ‘group‐based’, or because they are enabled or constrained by the collective's ‘normative authority’. However, their accounts of punishment fail to adequately reflect this complication. We claim that this is because they primarily countenance ‘paradigmatic’ forms of punishment. Part 2 of the article argues that a non‐paradigmatic form of punishment – one that is ‘expressive’ insofar as it publicly communicates a denunciation – can better target the complex relations between the individual and collective dimensions of mob‐based harms. In order to better illuminate the target of such punishment, Part 1 of the article clarifies the relation between individual, shared and collective responsibility for mob‐based harms. Responding to several shortcomings in May's and Shockley's work, we examine the emergence of ‘mob mentality’ and argue that mob beliefs, intentions and norms are dynamically ‘expressed’ (i.e. publicly manifested, communicated and shaped) in and through the situated behaviour of individual mob members.
Taking AIM at Theoretical and Pragmatic Impact: A Call for Actionable, Insightful, and Measurable Research
Authors: Craighead Christopher W. , Ketchen David J. , Darby Jessica L.
Published: June 2019

Ongoing debate surrounds the relative importance of theory and practice within supply chain research. Some contend that strong theory is central to knowledge advancement and its application to practice should be a secondary concern. Others argue that emphasizing theory moves the field away from its applied roots and the concerns of managers. We transcend this debate by proposing that theory and practice are separate dimensions rather than opposing concerns. Research projects can thus be strong in terms of both theory and practice, weak on both, or strong on one and weak on the other. We propose that placement within the first category requires scholars to devise research that is AIM—actionable (i.e., it provides a basis for making changes), insightful (it provides new ideas on important issues), and measurable (its effects can be quantitatively assessed). The impact of such research is magnified or dampened by the degree to which scholars achieve theoretical contextualization (i.e., adjusting the theory to reflect the setting under investigation) and theoretical calibration (i.e., alignment between theory and methods). Because “AIMing high” can deliver strong value for both scholars and managers, we encourage scholars, editors, and reviewers to embrace it in the development and evaluation of research.
Long non‐coding RNA deleted in lymphocytic leukaemia 1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by sponging miR‐133a to regulate IGF‐1R expression
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Songyang , Liu Kai , Liu Yahui
Published: June 2019

Long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) deleted in lymphocytic leukaemia 1 (DLEU1) was reported to be involved in the occurrence and development of multiple cancers. However, the exact expression, biological function and underlying mechanism of DLEU1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. In this study, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) in HCC tissues and cell lines revealed that DLEU1 expression was up‐regulated, and the increased DLEU1 was closely associated with advanced tumour‐node‐metastasis stage, vascular metastasis and poor overall survival. Function experiments showed that knockdown of DLEU1 significantly inhibited HCC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion, and suppressed epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) process via increasing the expression of E‐cadherin and decreasing the expression of N‐cadherin and Vimentin. Luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay demonstrated that DLEU1 could sponge miR‐133a. Moreover, miR‐133a inhibition significantly reversed the suppression effects of DLEU1 knockdown on HCC cells. Besides, we found that silenced DLEU1 significantly decreased insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF‐1R) expression (a target of miR‐133a) and its downstream signal PI3K/AKT pathway in HCC cells, while miR‐133a inhibitor partially reversed this trend. Furthermore, DLEU1 knockdown impaired tumour growth in vivo by regulating miR‐133a/IGF‐1R axis. Collectively, these findings indicate that DLEU1 promoted HCC progression by sponging miR‐133a to regulate IGF‐1R expression. Deleted in lymphocytic leukaemia 1/miR‐133a/IGF‐1R axis may be a novel target for treatment of HCC.
Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with diabetes among Chinese adults
Authors: Wan Zhengce , Song Lulu , Hu Liu , Hu Mei , Lei Xiaomei , Huang Yuancheng , Lv Yongman
Published: June 2019

Aims/Introduction

Several epidemiological studies investigated the effect of Helicobacter pylori infection on diabetes, but the conclusions remained inconsistent. We aimed to explore the relationship between H. pylori infection and diabetes, as well as glycemic metabolism profiles.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study including 58,482 Chinese adults was carried out between January 2016 and December 2017. H. pylori infection was diagnosed by the 13C‐urea breath test. Multivariate regression analyses were carried out to evaluate the association of H. pylori infection with diabetes.

Results

Of the 58,482 participants, 3,449 (5.9%) had diabetes. The H. pylori‐positive participants had a higher rate of diabetes (7.3% vs 5.2%, P < 0.001), and higher levels of fasting plasma glucose (5.36 ± 1.12 mmol/L vs 5.28 ± 0.95 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and glycated hemoglobin A1c (5.63 ± 0.68% vs 5.57 ± 0.60%, P < 0.001) than the H. pylori negative group. Multivariate regression analyses showed that H. pylori infection was positively related to diabetes (odds ratio 1.25, 95% confidence interval 1.15–1.35). Among the H. pylori‐positive participants, the elevated levels of fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin A1c were 0.033 mmol/L (95% confidence interval 0.016–0.049 mmol/L) and 0.024% (95% confidence interval 0.008–0.041%), respectively. Additionally, H. pylori infection was significantly related to diabetes in participants aged ≥44 years, but not in participants aged <44 years.

Conclusions

The present study showed that H. pylori infection is associated with diabetes among Chinese adults. More attention should be paid to adults with H. pylori infection for effective prevention of diabetes.
Longevity of indirect restorations cemented with self‐adhesive resin luting with and without selective enamel etching. A Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Solon‐de‐Mello Monique , da Silva Fidalgo Tatiana Kelly , dos Santos Letieri Aline , Masterson Daniele , Granjeiro José Mauro , Monte Alto Rafael V. , Maia Lucianne Cople
Published: June 2019

Objective

To investigate the influence of the selective etching in the survival rates of indirect restorations cemented with self‐adhesive resin luting.

Materials and Methods

The eligibility criteria were formulated based on PICOS strategy. The search without restrictions was performed in PubMed/Medline, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, LILACS databases and gray literature until May 2018. Cochrane Collaboration's tool was performed for assessing the risk of bias. According to the bias risk analysis, the studies were classified as low risk of bias and high quality of evidence. The systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42018091202). The meta‐analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software (RevMan, Copenhagen, Denmark) and the risk ration and confidence interval was obtained (p < 0.05).

Results

After database screening, removal of duplicates and eligibility criteria application, two studies were selected for this systematic review, with 65 participants (34 in one and 31 in the other). The pooled meta‐analysis demonstrated no statistically significant difference in clinical longevity for selective etching in indirect restorations (P > .05; I2 = 0%) and risk ratio of 0.46 [0.19‐1.09].

Conclusions

Based on the findings, the results of this systematic review suggest that the selective enamel etching prior to application of self‐adhesive luting cements systems for indirect restoration do not influence the clinical longevity of indirect restorations.

Clinical significance: The knowledge of the clinical steps of adhesive procedures is fundamental to the success of adhesive restorations and their longevity. Self‐adhesive resin cements simplify the luting procedure of indirect restorations. However, adding a step that could significantly improve long‐term survival would be of great value. Thus, the results of this systematic review will provide data so that the decision making regarding materials used for adhesive cementation is conducted based on scientific evidence.