bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A first model-independent radial BAO constraint from the final BOSS sample
Authors: Marra Valerio , Chirinos Isidro Eddy G
Published: June 2019

Using almost one million galaxies from the final Data Release 12 of the SDSS’s Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS), we have obtained, albeit with low significance, a first model-independent determination of the radial baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) peak with 9 per cent error: ΔzBAO(zeff = 0.51) = 0.0456 ± 0.0042. In order to obtain this measurement, the radial correlation function was computed in 7700 angular pixels, from which the mean correlation function and covariance matrix were obtained, making the analysis completely model-independent. This novel method of obtaining the covariance matrix was validated via comparison with 500 BOSS mock catalogues. This ΔzBAO determination can be used to constrain the background expansion of exotic models for which the assumptions adopted in the standard analysis cannot be satisfied. Future galaxy catalogues from J-PAS, DESI, and Euclid are expected to significantly increase the quality and significance of model-independent determinations of the BAO peak, possibly determined at various redshift and angular positions. We stress that it is imperative to test the standard paradigm in a model-independent way in order to test its foundations, maximize the extraction of information from the data, and look for clues regarding the poorly understood dark energy and dark matter.
New mass bound on fermionic dark matter from a combined analysis of classical dSphs
Authors: Savchenko D , Rudakovskyi A
Published: June 2019

Dwarf spheroidal galaxies (dSphs) are the most compact dark-matter-dominated objects observed so far. The Pauli exclusion principle limits the number of fermionic dark matter particles that can compose a dSph halo. This results in a well-known lower bound on their particle mass. So far, such bounds were obtained from the analysis of individual dSphs. In this paper, we model dark matter halo density profiles via the semi-analytical approach and analyse the data from eight ‘classical’ dSphs assuming the same mass of dark matter fermion in each object. First, we find out that modelling of Carina dSph results in a much worse fitting quality compared to the other seven objects. From the combined analysis of the kinematic data of the remaining seven ‘classical’ dSphs, we obtain a new 2σ lower bound of m ≳ 190 eV on the dark matter fermion mass. In addition, by combining a sub-sample of four dSphs – Draco, Fornax, Leo I, and Sculptor – we conclude that 220 eV fermionic dark matter appears to be preferred over the standard cold dark matter at about the 2σ level. However, this result becomes insignificant if all seven objects are included in the analysis. Future improvement of the obtained bound requires more detailed data, both from ‘classical’ and ultra-faint dSphs.
Non-invasive mitochondrial DNA quantification on Day 3 predicts blastocyst development: a prospective, blinded, multi-centric study
Authors: Stigliani Sara , Orlando Giovanna , Massarotti Claudia , Casciano Ida , Bovis Francesca , Anserini Paola , Ubaldi Filippo M , Remorgida Valentino , Rienzi Laura , Scaruffi Paola
Published: June 2019

In ART, embryo quality evaluation is routinely based on morphological criteria. We previously demonstrated that the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)/genomic DNA (gDNA) ratio in culture medium was significantly associated with embryo quality and viability potential. The purpose of this prospective, blinded, multi-centric study was to validate the use of mtDNA/gDNA ratio in Day 3 spent medium as a predictor of human embryo developmental competence. The mtDNA/gDNA ratio was assessed in Day 3 culture media (n=484) of embryos from 143 patients by quantitative PCR. A mixed effect logistic regression model was applied. We found that mtDNA/gDNA ratio in Day 3 culture medium combined with embryo morphology improves the prediction upon blastulation compared to morphology alone (P < 0.0001), independent of patient and cycle characteristics. With regard to routine use in clinics, we evaluated the ability of the novel, combined grading score to improve selection of developmentally competent embryos of a single cohort. Including embryos from 44 patients, the sensibility and specificity of the scoring system based on Day 3 morphological stage were 92% and 13%, respectively. Integration with the culture medium mtDNA/gDNA ratio increased the performance of the method (sensibility: 95%; specificity: 65%). The results of this study suggest the possibility of carrying out a non-invasive evaluation of embryonic mtDNA content through the culture medium. When combined with embryo morphology, it has the potential to help embryologists rank embryos and choose which embryo(s) has the greater development potential, and thus should be transferred on Day 3, among sibling embryos with the same morphological grade.
Making Sense of Self: An Autoethnographic Study of Identity Formation for Adolescents in Music Therapy
Authors: Echard Allison
Published: June 2019

Told through my experiences of working with three teenagers who had mild and moderate developmental disabilities, this autoethnographic study considers identity formation as a core concept in music therapy clinical practice. In doing so, I explored theories of identity formation, including those described by Erikson (1950, Childhood and society, Norton), Marcia and colleagues (1993, Ego identity: A handbook for psychosocial research, Springer), and Crocetti, Rubini, and Meeus (2008, Journal of Adolescence, 31(2), 207–222), relating these concepts to each of the teenagers I worked with. This article, therefore, chronicles the ways in which my clinical thinking shifted from a skills-based approach to one that considers the client’s identity as a whole, leading to suggestions of ways to integrate identity formation theory into clinical practice.
Scalable fabrication of printed Zn//MnO2 planar micro-batteries with high volumetric energy density and exceptional safety
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zheng Shuanghao , Zhou Feng , Qin Jieqiong , Shi Xiaoyu , Wang Sen , Sun Chenglin , Bao Xinhe , Wu Zhong-Shuai
Published: June 2019

The rapid development of printed and microscale electronics imminently requires compatible micro-batteries (MBs) with high performance, applicable scalability, and exceptional safety, but faces great challenges from the ever-reported stacked geometry. Herein the first printed planar prototype of aqueous-based, high-safety Zn//MnO2 MBs, with outstanding performance, aesthetic diversity, flexibility and modularization, is demonstrated, based on interdigital patterns of Zn ink as anode and MnO2 ink as cathode, with high-conducting graphene ink as a metal-free current collector, fabricated by an industrially scalable screen-printing technique. The planar separator-free Zn//MnO2 MBs, tested in neutral aqueous electrolyte, deliver a high volumetric capacity of 19.3 mAh/cm3 (corresponding to 393 mAh/g) at 7.5 mA/cm3, and notable volumetric energy density of 17.3 mWh/cm3, outperforming lithium thin-film batteries (≤10 mWh/cm3). Furthermore, our Zn//MnO2 MBs present long-term cyclability having a high capacity retention of 83.9% after 1300 cycles at 5 C, which is superior to stacked Zn//MnO2 batteries previously reported. Also, Zn//MnO2 planar MBs exhibit exceptional flexibility without observable capacity decay under serious deformation, and remarkably serial and parallel integration of constructing bipolar cells with high voltage and capacity output. Therefore, low-cost, environmentally benign Zn//MnO2 MBs with in-plane geometry possess huge potential as high-energy, safe, scalable and flexible microscale power sources for direction integration with printed electronics.
Voicing Dissent: Heresy Trials in Later Medieval England*
Authors: Arnold John H
Published: June 2019

Recent work on medieval heresy has emphasized the ‘constructedness’ of heresy by orthodox power, thus undermining the coherence of heretical sects and tending to suggest that those tried as heretics were essentially unwitting victims. This article examines the evidence from the entire range of surviving Lollard trials, and argues that we can see consciously ‘dissenting’ speech alongside the standard theological positions associated with (and perhaps imposed upon) Lollardy. In each area of dissent anticlerical, sceptical, disputational and rebellious a wider cultural context is explored, demonstrating that the language of dissent is not limited to ‘Lollardy’; at the same time however it is argued that it is precisely through the voicing and reception of such wider referents that a heretical movement comes to exist. The article traces trends in medieval speech through which specific opinions and beliefs are voiced as a challenge, and the linguistic and social contexts within which they give rise to wider meanings—including collective identifications. Thus, whilst we may wish to foreground the impositions of power and orthodoxy that ‘made’ heresy, we should not make ‘heretics’ disappear completely. Through the records of prosecution, we can still hear something of the voices of those who chose to voice dissent; and we can give recognition to that choice as a form of dissenting agency—dependent also however on the reception and interpretation of those voices by neighbours, witnesses and inquisitors.
Implicate or Exonerate? The Impact of Police Body-Worn Cameras on the Adjudication of Drug and Alcohol Cases
Authors: White Michael D , Gaub Janne E , Malm Aili , Padilla Kathleen E
Published: June 2019

Drug and alcohol offences represent a significant portion of police work. Officers commonly rely on subjective indicators of intoxication, and prosecutors depend on officer evidence collection, written reports, and testimony at trial. Police body-worn cameras (BWCs) have diffused widely in policing partly due to their perceived evidentiary value, but the extent to which BWCs affect the adjudication of such offences remains unanswered. The current study explores this question with 7,000 misdemeanour cases from Tempe (Arizona), filed from 2014 to 2017. The Tempe Police Department deployed BWCs from November 2015 to May 2016. Results indicate that BWCs had no impact on guilty outcomes, but cameras were associated with significantly shorter time to adjudication. We discuss the important policy implications of these thought-provoking findings.
A negative D-dimer identifies patients at low risk of death within 30 days: a prospective observational emergency department cohort study
Authors: Lyngholm L E , Nickel C H , Kellett J , Chang S , Cooksley T , Brabrand M
Published: June 2019

Objective

To determine the ability of a normal D-dimer level (<0.5 mg/l) to identify emergency department (ED) patients at low risk of 30-day all-cause mortality.

Design

In this prospective observational study, D-dimer levels of adult medical patients were assessed at arrival to the ED. Data on 30-day survival status were extracted from the Danish Civil Registration System with complete follow-up.

Setting

The Hospital of South West Jutland.

Patients

All patients aged 18 years or older who required any blood sample on a clinical indication on arrival to the ED. Participants were required to give written informed consent before enrollment.

Main results

The study population of 1 518 patients with median age 66 years of which 49.4% were female. Of the 791 (52.1%) patients with normal D-dimer levels, 3 (0.4%) died within 30 days; one death resulted from an unrelated traumatic accident. Of the 727 (47.9%) patients with abnormal D-dimer levels (≥0.50 mg/l), 32 (4.4%) died within 30 days. Patients with normal D-dimer levels had a significantly lower 30-day mortality compared to patients with abnormal D-dimer levels (odds ratio 0.08, 95% CI 0.02–0.28): of the 35 patients who died within 30 days, 19 (54.3%) had normal or near normal vital signs when first assessed.

Conclusion

Normal D-dimer levels identified patients at low risk of 30-day mortality. Since most patients who died within 30 days presented with normal or near normal vital signs, D-dimer levels appear to provide additional prognostic information.
Symmetry in Pay for Luck
Authors: Daniel Naveen D , Li Yuanzhi , Naveen Lalitha
Published: June 2019

In this study, we take a comprehensive look at asymmetry in pay for luck, which is the finding that CEOs are rewarded for good luck, but are not penalized to the same extent for bad luck. Our main takeaway, which is based on over 200 different specifications, is that there is no asymmetry in pay for luck. Our finding is important given that the literature widely accepts the idea of asymmetry in pay for luck and typically points to this as evidence of rent extraction. (JEL G32, G34)

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
PartCrafter: find, generate and analyze BioParts
Authors: Scher Emily , Cohen Shay B , Sanguinetti Guido
Published: June 2019

The field of Synthetic Biology is both practically and philosophically reliant on the idea of BioParts—concrete DNA sequences meant to represent discrete functionalities. While there are a number of software tools which allow users to design complex DNA sequences by stitching together BioParts or genetic features into genetic devices, there is a lack of tools assisting Synthetic Biologists in finding BioParts and in generating new ones. In practice, researchers often find BioParts in an ad hoc way. We present PartCrafter, a tool which extracts and aggregates genomic feature data in order to facilitate the search for new BioParts with specific functionalities. PartCrafter can also turn a genomic feature into a BioPart by packaging it according to any manufacturing standard, codon optimizing it for a new host, and removing forbidden sites. PartCrafter is available at partcrafter.com.
The Multispecies Coalescent Over-Splits Species in the Case of Geographically Widespread Taxa
Authors: Chambers E Anne , Hillis David M
Published: June 2019

Many recent species delimitation studies rely exclusively on limited analyses of genetic data analyzed under the multispecies coalescent (MSC) model, and results from these studies often are regarded as conclusive support for taxonomic changes. However, most MSC-based species delimitation methods have well-known and often unmet assumptions. Uncritical application of these genetic-based approaches (without due consideration of sampling design, the effects of a priori group designations, isolation by distance, cytoplasmic–nuclear mismatch, and population structure) can lead to over-splitting of species. Here, we argue that in many common biological scenarios, researchers must be particularly cautious regarding these limitations, especially in cases of well-studied, geographically variable, and parapatrically distributed species complexes. We consider these points with respect to a historically controversial species group, the American milksnakes (Lampropeltis triangulum complex), using genetic data from a recent analysis (Ruane et al. 2014). We show that over-reliance on the program Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography, without adequate consideration of its assumptions and of sampling limitations, resulted in over-splitting of species in this study. Several of the hypothesized species of milksnakes instead appear to represent arbitrary slices of continuous geographic clines. We conclude that the best available evidence supports three, rather than seven, species within this complex. More generally, we recommend that coalescent-based species delimitation studies incorporate thorough analyses of geographic variation and carefully examine putative contact zones among delimited species before making taxonomic changes.
Sensor analysis and initial assessment of detectable first hoof contacts and last break-overs as unique signal fluctuations for equine gait analysis
Authors: Atkins Colton A , Pond Kevin R , Madsen Christi K , Moorman Valerie J , Roman-Muniz Ivette N , Archibeque Shawn L , Grandin Temple
Published: June 2019

The objective of the control study was to assess 2 prominent fluctuations in a single optical signal as being either a true first hoof contact or a last break-over based on descriptive measures. The study builds on initial findings from a preliminary investigation of the embedded-optical-base system’s (EOBS) capabilities in signal capturing and feasibility as potential alternative to existing gait technologies, such as piezoelectric (e.g., load cell) systems. Hoof contacts and break-overs were measured (0 to 1 au; arbitrary units) using a 2.4-m (length) × 0.9-m (width) platform containing 1 EOBS. Three mixed-breed horses (n = 3) were injected with saline or either 100 IU or 200 IU Botox (i.e., onabotulinumtoxinA) with a 2.5-mL final volume. Injections were made into the deep digital flexor muscle at the motor end plates, with electromyography and ultrasound guidance. Horses were observed for 3 time points (pre-, post-, and recovery test days) over the span of a 4-mo period. Signal fluctuations [i.e., amplitude of hoof impacts based on true first hoof contacts (ΔSTS) and true last break-overs (ΔSTL)] and kinematics [i.e., complete gait pass (CGP) time duration (T)] were recorded from each horse. Visual observations and video analysis were used for determining gait pattern categories. Individual horse measurements were analyzed for each trial, compared with video data and classified. Comparison of primary signal fluctuations (i.e., ΔSTS vs. ΔSTL; forelimb vs. hindlimb) exhibited significant differences between hoof contacts and break-overs (P < 0.05). Right and left forelimb hoof contacts and hindlimb break-overs were not significantly different (P = 0.966; 0.063 ± 0.135; Estimate ± SE; P = 0.606; 0.176 ± 0.142; Estimate ± SE, respectively). Additionally, treatment vs. saline forelimbs did not exhibit significant difference (P = 0.7407; −0.098 ± 0.279; Estimate ± SE). Overall, data showed that the EOBS can collect repeatable and unique primary signal fluctuations as prominent and different gait measurements providing evidence to further development and research of the sensing system.
Gauging genetic diversity of generalists: A test of genetic and ecological generalism with RNA virus experimental evolution
Authors: Zhao Lele , Duffy Siobain
Published: June 2019

Generalist viruses, those with a comparatively larger host range, are considered more likely to emerge on new hosts. The potential to emerge in new hosts has been linked to viral genetic diversity, a measure of evolvability. However, there is no consensus on whether infecting a larger number of hosts leads to higher genetic diversity, or whether diversity is better maintained in a homogeneous environment, similar to the lifestyle of a specialist virus. Using experimental evolution with the RNA bacteriophage phi6, we directly tested whether genetic generalism (carrying an expanded host range mutation) or environmental generalism (growing on heterogeneous hosts) leads to viral populations with more genetic variation. Sixteen evolved viral lineages were deep sequenced to provide genetic evidence for population diversity. When evolved on a single host, specialist and generalist genotypes both maintained the same level of diversity (measured by the number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) above 1%, P = 0.81). However, the generalist genotype evolved on a single host had higher SNP levels than generalist lineages under two heterogeneous host passaging schemes (P = 0.001, P < 0.001). RNA viruses’ response to selection in alternating hosts reduces standing genetic diversity compared to those evolving in a single host to which the virus is already well-adapted.
Trying to Do What Is Best
Authors: Rockefeller Katherin , Macken Lynda C. , Craig Alexa
Published: June 2019

Background:

The maternal experience of caring for and bonding with infants affected by neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) has not been adequately characterized.

Purpose:

This study was designed to describe mothers' experiences of, supports for, and barriers to bonding with infants with NAS.

Methods:

Semistructured interviews were coded using computer-assisted thematic content analysis. A code co-occurrence model was used to visualize the relationships between themes.

Results:

Thirteen mothers of infants with NAS participated. Trying to Do What Is Best emerged as the overarching theme with which several subthemes co-occurred. Subthemes that captured mothers loving their infants and bonding, feeling supported by the infants' fathers, feeling supported in the community, and receiving information from hospital staff were associated with mothers' trying to do what is best. Barriers to trying to do what is best included feeling unsupported in the community, guilt about taking medications or substances during pregnancy, feeling judged, and infant withdrawal.

Implications for Practice:

Specific implications for practice may be derived from the mothers' criticisms of NAS assessment tools. Mothers highlighted the value of reassurance and education from providers and the uniquely nonjudgmental support received from peers and male coparents.

Implications for Research:

There is a lack of information about maternal–infant bonding in dyads affected by NAS and factors that contribute to parental loss of custody. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies in diverse populations might help researchers better understand the long-term outcomes of NAS and develop interventions that decrease family separation.
Do Patient-specific or Fracture-specific Factors Predict the Development of Acute Compartment Syndrome After Pediatric Tibial Shaft Fractures?
Authors: Villarreal Eric D. , Wrenn Jesse O. , Sheffer Benjamin W. , Sawyer Jeffrey R. , Spence David D. , Kelly Derek M.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Tibial shaft fractures are the most common injuries preceding acute compartment syndrome (ACS), so it is important to understand the incidence of and risk factors for ACS after pediatric tibial shaft fractures. The purposes of this study were to determine the rate at which ACS occurs and if any patient or fracture characteristics are significantly associated with developing ACS.

Methods:

All patients aged 5 to 17 years treated for a tibial shaft fracture at a level 1 pediatric trauma center, a level 1 adult trauma center, and an outpatient orthopaedic practice between 2008 and 2016 were retrospectively identified. Demographics, mechanisms of injury, and fracture characteristics were collected from the medical records. Radiographs were reviewed by study authors. ACS was diagnosed clinically or by intracompartmental pressure measurement. Univariable analysis was performed using the Fisher exact test for nominal variables and simple logistic regression for continuous variables. Multivariable analysis was performed using stepwise logistic regression.

Results:

Among 515 patients with 517 tibial shaft fractures, 9 patients (1.7%) with 10 (1.9%) fractures developed ACS at a mean age of 15.2 years compared with a mean age of 11 years in patients without ACS (P=0.001). One patient with bilateral tibial fractures developed ACS bilaterally. Age greater than 14 years (P=0.006), higher body mass index (P<0.001), motorcycle or motor vehicle accidents (P=0.034), comminuted and segmental tibial shaft fractures (P<0.001), ipsilateral fibular fracture (P=0.002), and associated orthopaedic injuries (P=0.032) were all significantly more common in the ACS group.

Conclusions:

ACS developed in 1.7% of the patients with tibial shaft fractures in this retrospective study—a rate significantly lower than previously reported. Age greater than 14 years, higher body mass index, motor vehicle or motorcycle accidents, comminuted or segmental fracture pattern, ipsilateral fibular fracture, and associated orthopaedic injuries are all significantly associated with its development.

Levels of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Lymphovascular Invasion in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Boothe Dustin , Wolfson Aaron , Christensen Michael , Francis Samual , Werner Theresa L. , Gaffney David K.
Published: June 2019

Objectives:

Lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) is a known prognostic factor for endometrial carcinomas. However, LVSI as a determinant of treatment benefit has not been fully elucidated.

Methods and Materials:

Data from the National Cancer Database for endometrial cancer from 2004 to 2012 was obtained. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to assess the impact of LVSI on overall survival (OS). Survival analysis was performed utilizing log-rank and Kaplan-Meier analyses. The difference in OS between external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and vaginal brachytherapy (VBT) in LVSI-positive patients was analyzed with propensity score matching.

Results:

A total of 32,150 patients with surgical stage I to III endometrial carcinomas were available for analysis with a median follow-up of 30 months. Twenty-nine percent were LVSI positive and received adjuvant radiotherapy (aRT) more often than if LVSI negative (57% vs. 37%). On multivariate analysis, LVSI (hazard ratio, 1.94; P<0.01) was associated with an increased risk of death. aRT improved OS for LVSI-negative patients (87% without aRT, 90% with aRT; P=0.006). aRT was particularly effective in LVSI-positive patients: all stages of LVSI-positive patients were associated with an OS benefit (P<0.01), whereas among LVSI-negative patients, only stage III benefited from aRT (P<0.01). After propensity score match, there was no OS difference between EBRT and VBT among LVSI-positive patients (hazard ratio, 1.15; P=0.44).

Conclusions:

LVSI is an independent prognostic factor in locoregional endometrial carcinomas. aRT benefited all stages of LVSI-positive patients, but only stage III of LVSI-negative patients. Among LVSI-positive patients, we did not find an OS difference between adjuvant EBRT versus VBT.
The Relative Importance of Sleep Duration and Bedtime Routines for the Social-Emotional Functioning of Chinese Children
Authors: Ren Lixin , Hu Bi Ying
Published: June 2019

Objective:

Although the importance of sleep has been widely supported by empirical research, researchers have only recently linked sleep to children's social-emotional development. This study aimed to investigate 2 aspects of sleep—namely, sleep duration and bedtime routines—in relation to the social skills and problem behavior in a group of Chinese school-aged children.

Method:

This study involved 228 Chinese children (mean age = 8.32 years). Parents reported their child's sleep duration, the consistency of bedtime routines, and social-emotional functioning.

Results:

Both sleep duration and the consistency of bedtime routines had unique contributions to children's social-emotional functioning. Sex differences were found regarding the sleep-child adjustment link. Sleep duration was negatively associated with child problem behavior for both boys and girls. However, the relationship between bedtime routines and social skills was more pronounced for boys, while the relation between sleep duration and social skills was more evident for girls.

Conclusion:

Our findings highlight the importance of consistent bedtime routines and adequate sleep for the social-emotional development of Chinese school-aged children.
CHANGES IN TOTAL AND INNER RETINAL THICKNESSES IN TYPE 1 DIABETES WITH NO RETINOPATHY AFTER 8 YEARS OF FOLLOW-UP
Authors: Pinilla Isabel , Idoipe Miriam , Perdices Lorena , Sanchez-Cano Ana , Acha Javier , Lopez-Galvez Maria Isabel , Cuenca Nicolas , Abecia Emilio , Orduna-Hospital Elvira
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

To evaluate changes in retinal layer thickness in patients with Type 1 diabetes with no diabetic retinopathy after 8 years of follow-up.

Methods:

Ninety Type 1 diabetes and 60 control eyes were studied. Changes in the retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer, and inner nuclear layer thicknesses in all Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study areas were evaluated.

Results:

The mean ages were 42.93 ± 13.62 and 41.52 ± 13.05 years in the diabetic and control group, respectively. In 2009, total retinal thickness was higher in diabetic patients; differences were statistically significant in all except the nasal areas. In both groups, the mean foveal thickness remained the same during the 8 years. Among diabetic patients, there was a significant reduction in total retinal thickness in all areas excluding the outer temporal one; controls only in the inferior areas. The thickness loss was due to the thinning of the inner retinal layers (inner nuclear layer, ganglion cell layer, and retinal nerve fiber layer). The controls showed a significant diminution in the retinal nerve fiber layer and in the ganglion cell layer areas. The inner nuclear layer showed a diminution in the diabetes mellitus group.

Conclusion:

Before the onset of diabetic retinopathy, Type 1 diabetes patients experience a diminution of their inner retinal layer thicknesses over time, supporting the hypothesis of retinal neurodegeneration.
Adolescent obesity in the past decade: A systematic review of genetics and determinants of food choice
Authors: Campbell Eleanor T. , Franks Alexis T. , Joseph Paule V.
Published: June 2019

Background and purpose:

As the incidence of global obesity increases, concerns about adverse health outcomes in adolescents continues to rise. The complexity and expense of this problem require early recognition and specific preventive treatments. Knowledge of genetics and determinants of food choices contributing to adolescent obesity warrants further examination. The primary goal was to appraise the literature from the past decade (2007–2017) on the current state of food choice and genetic determinants of adolescent overweight/obesity in the United States. The secondary goal was to determine trends in the literature and areas for future research.

Methods:

A systematic review of research studies in the United States from 2007 to 2017 was completed. Database searches were conducted using CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, PubMed, Scopus, Academic Search Complete, Web of Science, BIOSIS, and the Cochrane Library. A total of 535 studies were selected. Of these, 283 studies focused on determinants of food choices and 165 studies focused on genetic factors.

Conclusions:

A total of 41 full-text articles included in this literature review contained studies limited exclusively to adolescents. Stress factors related to food choices demonstrated a new trend being explored. The need for precision health, the application of genetic information, could uncover ways food choices affect adolescent obesity.

Implications for practice:

The etiology of adolescent obesity requires that nurses gain knowledge of genetics and food choice determinants to inform personalized treatments for adolescents, which may establish effective interventions that promote healthy weight achievement.
Improving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning health: Using a standardized patient experience to educate advanced practice nursing students
Authors: Kuzma Elizabeth K. , Graziano Christie , Shea Elizabeth , Schaller Franklin V. , Pardee Michelle , Darling-Fisher Cynthia S.
Published: June 2019

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) persons account for 3.5% of the population. Nursing programs in the United States provide a median of 2.13 hours of formal content regarding LGBTQ health, which contributes to iatrogenic barriers to care. Patient experiences related to inadequate provider preparation include misguided treatment strategies, impedance of communication, and abuse. A pilot educational project was developed to provide advanced practice nursing (APRN) students meaningful clinical interactions with LGBTQ-identifying standardized patients (SPs) to better prepare them to care for LGBTQ patients with cultural humility. This project was determined to be Exempt by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Michigan. Implemented in an advanced health assessment course with 99 APRN students, components of the project included course readings, lecture content, laboratory activities, an SP experience, and both large and small debriefing sessions. The SP experience itself was a 15-minute clinical encounter with a patient presenting with “abdominal pain,” with an emphasis on history-taking, communication, and cultural humility. Qualitative data analysis was performed using the constant comparison method to interpret the results from student evaluations and other written feedback. This pilot project has promise to inform future educational offerings and set the standard for LGBTQ health content and application for APRN students. Further research is needed to evaluate the quality of LGBTQ content in APRN curricula to improve the ability of APRN students to provide care to LGBTQ patients.
Understanding the mental health impact of human trafficking
Authors: Stevens Susan , Acker Shekitta , Green Kristina , Swales Sheila , Fulmer Holly M. , Fortinsky Rachel , Nicholas Patrice K.
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this report was to review the mental health consequences related to human trafficking and the important role of health care providers, particularly advanced practice nurses, nurse practitioners (NPs), and psychiatric mental health NPs in identifying and responding to trafficking victims. The framework was based on a biopsychosocial model for assessment and a trauma-informed approach to care. An integrative review of the literature was conducted to offer a comprehensive overview of the mental health consequences. Deleterious mental health consequences are common in individuals who have experienced trafficking, and symptoms suffered by individuals were assessed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder, as well as additional guidelines specific to a trauma-informed approach. Mental health sequelae experienced by trafficking survivors must be understood using a comprehensive trauma-informed framework for assessment and treatment.
Inotropes and vasopressors use in cardiogenic shock: when, which and how much?
Authors: Levy Bruno , Buzon Julie , Kimmoun Antoine
Published: June 2019

Purpose of review

Data and interventional trials regarding vasopressor and inotrope use during cardiogenic shock are scarce. Their use is limited by their side-effects and the lack of solid evidence regarding their effectiveness in improving outcomes. In this article, we review the current use of vasopressor and inotrope agents during cardiogenic shock.

Recent findings

Two recent Cochrane analyses concluded that there was not sufficient evidence to prove that any one vasopressor or inotrope was superior to another in terms of mortality. A recent RCT and a meta-analysis on individual data suggested that norepinephrine may be preferred over epinephrine in patients with cardiogenic shock . For inotrope agents, when norepinephrine fails to restore perfusion, dobutamine represents the first-line agent. Levosimendan is a calcium sensitizer agent, which improves acute hemodynamics, albeit with uncertain effects on mortality.

When blood pressure needs to be restored, norepinephrine is a reasonable first-line agent. Dobutamine is the first-line inotrope agent wheraes levosimendan can be used as a second-line agent or preferentially in patients previously treated with beta-blockers. Current information regarding comparative effective outcomes is nonetheless sparse and their use should be limited as a temporary bridge to recovery, mechanical circulatory support or heart transplantation.
Neutrophils and type 1 diabetes: current knowledge and suggested future directions
Authors: Battaglia Manuela , Petrelli Alessandra , Vecchio Federica
Published: June 2019

Purpose of review

Purpose of this review is to describe the most recent human studies on neutrophils in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and to focus on the key questions that still need to be addressed.

Recent findings

Recent evidences demonstrate that neutrophils have marked abnormalities in phenotype and function and play a central role in initiation and perpetuation of aberrant immune responses and organ damage in various systemic autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. In T1D, we have recently demonstrated that reduced circulating neutrophil numbers precede and accompany the disease and that neutrophils infiltrate the pancreas and extrude neutrophil extracellular traps already before the onset of clinical symptoms. However, few other evidences of alterations in neutrophil phenotype and function have been reported in humans, especially in the T1D presymptomatic phases.

Dissecting the pathogenic role of these cells in human T1D is crucial for a better understanding of the disease and to open new therapeutic opportunities.
Evaluation of a Novel Medicolegal Death Investigator–Based Suicide Surveillance System to the National Violent Death Reporting System
Authors: Repp Kimberly K. , Hawes Eva , Rees Kathleen J. , Lovato Charles , Knapp Adam , Stauffenberg Michele
Published: June 2019

The abundance of actionable information available in a medicolegal suicide investigation is often inaccessible and underutilized in public health to the detriment of prevention efforts. Epidemiologists obtained the Washington County subset of the Oregon Violent Death Reporting System (OR-VDRS). To determine if additional information beyond the OR-VDRS was available through a standard death investigation, an epidemiologist shadowed medicolegal death investigators (MDIs) for nearly 2 years. The MDIs and epidemiologist developed a novel, real-time, MDI-entered surveillance system, the Suicide Risk Factor Surveillance System (SRFSS), to capture suicide risk factor data with greater timeliness and accuracy than available through the OR-VDRS. To evaluate the performance of each surveillance system, differences in the prevalence of suicide risk factor data from SRFSS were compared with the county OR-VDRS subset for the same 133 suicides occurring in 2014–2015. Across 27 suicide risk factors and circumstances, the median difference in prevalence was 10.5 percentage points between the OR-VDRS and the SRFSS, with the higher prevalence in SRFSS. The prevalence was significantly different between the 2 surveillance systems for 21 (78%) of 27 variables. This study demonstrates the truly exceptional data quality and timeliness of MDI information over traditional sources.
Current Approach to the Evaluation and Management of Acute Compartment Syndrome in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Gottlieb Michael , Adams Shayna , Landas Trevor
Published: June 2019

Acute compartment syndrome is an emergent condition caused by increased pressure within a closed compartment. The most common etiology is fractures, but there a number of atraumatic causes cited in the literature. Acute compartment syndrome occurs most frequently in the anterior compartment of the lower leg, followed by the volar forearm. Patients may present with severe pain, pain with passive stretch, swelling, paresthesias, numbness, weakness, decreased pulses, and delayed capillary refill. No finding in isolation can exclude the diagnosis. Direct measurement of the intracompartmental pressure is the most important diagnostic test. Treatment involves removal of compressive dressings and surgical consultation for emergent fasciotomy.
The Complementary Role of Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Endometriosis: A Review
Authors: Craig Elizabeth V. , Shannon LeAnn M. , Andreotti Rochelle F.
Published: June 2019

Endometriosis is a common problem affecting millions of reproductive age women worldwide. It is frequently associated with pain, and it is the number one cause of infertility in women over the age of 25. As a radiologist, one must be familiar with the various presentations of endometriosis to accurately diagnose and help triage patients. Although ultrasound remains the mainstay of diagnosis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently used in a complementary fashion as a problem-solving tool. This article will expand upon the complementary role of MRI and highlight clinical scenarios where MRI can provide additional information that could not be obtained in the patient's initial ultrasound.
Microbiome acquisition during larval settlement of the barnacle
Semibalanus balanoides
Authors: Aldred Nick , Nelson Andrew
Published: June 2019

Barnacles are conspicuous members of rocky intertidal communities and settlement of the final larval stage, the cyprid, is influenced by the presence of biofilms. While modulation of cyprid settlement by biofilms has been studied extensively, the acquisition of a specific microbiome by the settling larva has not. This study investigated settlement in the field of
Semibalanus balanoides
in two consecutive years when the composition of the benthic bacterial community differed. In both years, settling cyprids adopted a specific sub-set of benthic bacteria that was distinct from the planktonic cyprid and the benthos. This microbiome was consistent, regardless of annual variability in the benthic community structure, and established within hours of settlement. The results imply that a natural process of selection occurs during the critical final transition of
S. balanoides
to the sessile form. The apparent consistency of this process between years suggests that optimal growth and survival of barnacles could depend upon a complex inter-kingdom relationship, as has been demonstrated in other animal systems.
An electro-osmotic microfluidic system to characterize cancer cell migration under confinement
Authors: Hui T. H. , Cho W. C. , Fong H. W. , Yu M. , Kwan K. W. , Ngan K. C. , Wong K. H. , Tan Y. , Yao S. , Jiang H. , Gu Z. , Lin Y.
Published: June 2019

We have developed a novel electro-osmotic microfluidic system to apply precisely controlled osmolarity gradients to cancer cells in micro-channels. We observed that albeit adhesion is not required for cells to migrate in such a confined microenvironment, the migrating velocity of cells is strongly influenced by the interactions between the cells and the channel wall, with a stronger adhesion leading to diminished cell motility. Furthermore, through examining more than 20 different types of cancer cells, we found a linear positive correlation between the protein concentration of the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) and the cell migrating speed. Knockdown of AQP4 in invasive re-populated cancer stem cells reduced their migration capability down to the level that is comparable to their parental cancer cells. Interestingly, these observations can all be quantitatively explained by the osmotic engine model where the cell movement is assumed to be driven by cross-membrane ion/water transport, while adhesion acts as a frictional resistance against the cell motility. By providing versatile and controllable features in regulating and characterizing the migration capability of cells, our system may serve as a useful tool in quantifying how cell motility is influenced by different physical and biochemical factors, as well as elucidating the mechanisms behind, in the future.
Fin whale singing decreases with increased swimming speed
Authors: Clark Christopher W. , Gagnon George J. , Frankel Adam S.
Published: June 2019

The attributes of male acoustic advertisement displays are often related to a performer's age, breeding condition and motivation, but these relationships are particularly difficult to study in free-ranging marine mammals. For fin whale singers, we examined the relationships between a singer's swimming speed, song duration and amount of singing. We used a unique set of fin whale singing and swimming data collected in support of the US Navy's marine mammal monitoring programme associated with the Navy's Integrated Undersea Surveillance System. A goal of the programme is to improve understanding of the potential effects of anthropogenic sound sources on baleen whale behaviours and populations. We found that as whales swam faster, some continued to sing, while others did not. If swimming speed is an indication of male stamina, then singing while swimming faster could be a display by which females and/or other males assess a singer's physical fitness and potential reproductive quality. Results have implications for interpreting fin whale singing behaviour and the possible influences of anthropogenic sounds on fin whale mating strategies and breeding success.
Are Bitcoin bubbles predictable? Combining a generalized Metcalfe’s Law and the Log-Periodic Power Law Singularity model
Authors: Wheatley Spencer , Sornette Didier , Huber Tobias , Reppen Max , Gantner Robert N.
Published: June 2019

We develop a strong diagnostic for bubbles and crashes in Bitcoin, by analysing the coincidence (and its absence) of fundamental and technical indicators. Using a generalized Metcalfe’s Law based on network properties, a fundamental value is quantified and shown to be heavily exceeded, on at least four occasions, by bubbles that grow and burst. In these bubbles, we detect a universal super-exponential unsustainable growth. We model this universal pattern with the Log-Periodic Power Law Singularity (LPPLS) model, which parsimoniously captures diverse positive feedback phenomena, such as herding and imitation. The LPPLS model is shown to provide an ex ante warning of market instabilities, quantifying a high crash hazard and probabilistic bracket of the crash time consistent with the actual corrections; although, as always, the precise time and trigger (which straw breaks the camel’s back) is exogenous and unpredictable. Looking forward, our analysis identifies a substantial but not unprecedented overvaluation in the price of Bitcoin, suggesting many months of volatile sideways Bitcoin prices ahead (from the time of writing, March 2018).
Smoking does not accelerate leucocyte telomere attrition: a meta-analysis of 18 longitudinal cohorts
Authors: Bateson Melissa , Aviv Abraham , Bendix Laila , Benetos Athanase , Ben-Shlomo Yoav , Bojesen Stig E. , Cooper Cyrus , Cooper Rachel , Deary Ian J. , Hägg Sara , Harris Sarah E. , Kark Jeremy D. , Kronenberg Florian , Kuh Diana , Labat Carlos , Martin-Ruiz Carmen M. , Meyer Craig , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Pepper Gillian V. , Révész Dóra , Said M. Abdullah , Starr John M. , Syddall Holly , Thomson William Murray , van der Harst Pim , Whooley Mary , von Zglinicki Thomas , Willeit Peter , Zhan Yiqiang , Nettle Daniel
Published: June 2019

Smoking is associated with shorter leucocyte telomere length (LTL), a biomarker of increased morbidity and reduced longevity. This association is widely interpreted as evidence that smoking causes accelerated LTL attrition in adulthood, but the evidence for this is inconsistent. We analysed the association between smoking and LTL dynamics in 18 longitudinal cohorts. The dataset included data from 12 579 adults (4678 current smokers and 7901 non-smokers) over a mean follow-up interval of 8.6 years. Meta-analysis confirmed a cross-sectional difference in LTL between smokers and non-smokers, with mean LTL 84.61 bp shorter in smokers (95% CI: 22.62 to 146.61). However, LTL attrition was only 0.51 bp yr
−1
faster in smokers than in non-smokers (95% CI: −2.09 to 1.08), a difference that equates to only 1.32% of the estimated age-related loss of 38.33 bp yr
−1
. Assuming a linear effect of smoking, 167 years of smoking would be required to generate the observed cross-sectional difference in LTL. Therefore, the difference in LTL between smokers and non-smokers is extremely unlikely to be explained by a linear, causal effect of smoking. Selective adoption, whereby individuals with short telomeres are more likely to start smoking, needs to be considered as a more plausible explanation for the observed pattern of telomere dynamics.