bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Footpad peripheral ganglioneuroblastoma in a dog
Authors: Salvadori Claudia , Cantile Carlo , Massari Federico , Chiti Lavinia , Colombo Silvia , Abramo Francesca
Published: April 2019

Background

Peripheral neuroblastic tumours arising from primitive cells of the cranial and spinal ganglia and from sympathetic ganglion cells of the autonomic nervous system include, from most to least differentiated, ganglioneuroma, ganglioneuroblastoma and neuroblastoma. Canine ganglioneuroblastoma has been described in the mediastinum, nasal and oral cavities, as well as in the brain.

Objective

To describe the clinical and histopathological findings, treatment and follow‐up of a primary cutaneous ganglioneuroblastoma affecting the footpad of a dog.

Animal

An 8‐year‐old male German shepherd dog, referred for left forelimb lameness and licking of the footpad, showed thickening of the footpad of digit V with a central nodular lesion.

Methods and results

Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination on a surgical skin biopsy specimen showed an infiltrative and highly cellular neoplasm in the deep dermis. The neoplasm was composed of large polyhedral cells with abundant cytoplasm containing Nissl substance that reacted strongly with neuron‐specific enolase and neuronal nuclei antigen, spindle cells with indistinct cell borders suggestive of Schwann cells, with a mild S‐100 and GFAP immunoreactivity, and rare nests of neuroblasts. The owner agreed to digit amputation. Histologically, a neoplastic multinodular proliferation with morphological findings like those detected in the biopsy was observed, not extended to the surgical margins and without involvement of skeletal bone. No recurrence or metastasis was observed over a period of one year.

Conclusions and clinical importance

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of a primary cutaneous ganglioneuroblastoma in a dog. Ganglioneuroblastoma should be included in the differential diagnoses of canine footpad neoplastic diseases.
Influence of plate type and placement on the immobilization of bilateral equine mandibular osteotomies: Ex vivo study
Authors: Durket Elyse , Kersh Kevin , Dembek Katarzyna , Riedesel Elizabeth , Silverstone Auri , Kraus Karl H.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To determine the influence of plate fixation (locking or dynamic compression) and the site of application (ventral [V] or ventrolateral [VL]) on the resistance to bending of transverse mandibular fractures.

Study design

Ex vivo, simple randomized study.

Sample population

Mandibles harvested from adult equine cadavers (n = 18).

Methods

Bilateral osteotomies were created 1 cm caudal to the mental foramen and perpendicular to the long axis of each mandible. Mandibles were fixed with 1 of 3 methods: (1) VL dynamic compression plate (DCP), (2) V‐DCP, or (3) VL locking compression plating (LCP). Constructs were mounted on a custom testing jig and tested for resistance in bending by applying force to the rostral aspect of the mandible. Stiffness and change of distance of the dorsal osteotomy at 200 N were compared among constructs.

Results

VL‐LCP constructs were 5.25 and 2.42 times stiffer than V and VL constructs, respectively (P<.001). Change in the width of the osteotomy gap at 200 N of load was reduced 6.04 times when osteotomies were stabilized with VL compared to V (P<.001); no difference was detected between the VL and VL‐LCP constructs (P=.836).

Conclusion

Ventrolateral LCP fixation of equine transverse mandibular osteotomies provided greater resistance to bending compared with V and VL constructs.

Clinical significance

These results provide evidence to recommend fixation of transverse interdental mandibular fractures with VL‐LCP rather than with DCP in horses.
Molecular basis of allosteric Orai1 channel activation by STIM1
Authors: Yeung Priscilla See‐Wai , Yamashita Megumi , Prakriya Murali
Published: April 2019

Store‐operated Ca2+ entry through Orai1 channels is a primary mechanism for Ca2+ entry in many cells and mediates numerous cellular effector functions ranging from gene transcription to exocytosis. Orai1 channels are amongst the most Ca2+‐selective channels known and are activated by direct physical interactions with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ sensor stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) in response to store depletion triggered by stimulation of a variety of cell surface G‐protein coupled and tyrosine kinase receptors. Work in the last decade has revealed that the Orai1 gating process is highly cooperative and strongly allosteric, likely driven by a wave of interdependent conformational changes throughout the protein originating in the peripheral C‐terminal ligand binding site and culminating in pore opening. In this review, we survey the structural and molecular features in Orai1 that contribute to channel gating and consider how they give rise to the unique biophysical fingerprint of Orai1 currents.

image
Fructose and metabolic health: governed by hepatic glycogen status?
Authors: Hengist Aaron , Koumanov Francoise , Gonzalez Javier T.
Published: April 2019

Fructose is a commonly ingested dietary sugar which has been implicated in playing a particularly harmful role in the development of metabolic disease. Fructose is primarily metabolised by the liver in humans, and increases rates of hepatic de novo lipogenesis. Fructose increases hepatic de novo lipogenesis via numerous mechanisms: by altering transcriptional and allosteric regulation, interfering with cellular energy sensing, and disrupting the balance between lipid synthesis and lipid oxidation. Hepatic de novo lipogenesis is also upregulated by the inability to synthesise glycogen, either when storage is inhibited in knock‐down animal models or storage is saturated in glycogen storage disease. Considering that fructose has the capacity to upregulate hepatic glycogen storage, and replenish these stores more readily following glycogen depleting exercise, the idea that hepatic glycogen storage and hepatic de novo lipogenesis are linked is an attractive prospect. We propose that hepatic glycogen stores may be a key factor in determining the metabolic responses to fructose ingestion, and saturation of hepatic glycogen stores could exacerbate the negative metabolic effects of excessive fructose intake. Since physical activity potently modulates glycogen metabolism, this provides a rationale for considering nutrient–physical activity interactions in metabolic health.

image
A new species of Tenuipalpus Donnadieu (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) from Cedrela odorata L. (Meliaceae), from Bahia, Brazil, with ontogeny of chaetotaxy
Authors: Souza Kaelem , Castro Elizeu , Tassi Aline D. , Navia Denise , Oliveira Anibal Ramadan
Published: April 2019

A new species of Tenuipalpus Donnadieu (Acari: Tenuipalpidae), Tenuipalpus odoratus Souza, Castro & Oliveira sp. nov., is described from females, males, deutonymphs, protonymphs and larvae collected on Cedrela odorata L. (Meliaceae) from Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil. A proposed ontogeny of leg chaetotaxy is also included.
The Interplay between
Salmonella enterica
Serovar Typhimurium and the Intestinal Mucosa during Oral Infection
Authors: Hausmann Annika , Hardt Wolf-Dietrich
Published: April 2019

Bacterial infection results in a dynamic interplay between the pathogen and its host. The underlying interactions are multilayered, and the cellular responses are modulated by the local environment. The intestine is a particularly interesting tissue regarding host-pathogen interaction. It is densely colonized by commensal microbes and a portal of entry for ingested pathogens. This necessitates constant monitoring of microbial stimuli in order to maintain homeostasis during encounters with benign microbiota and to trigger immune defenses in response to bacterial pathogens. Homeostasis is maintained by physical barriers (the mucus layer and epithelium), chemical defenses (antimicrobial peptides), and innate immune responses (NLRC4 inflammasome), which keep the bacteria from reaching the sterile lamina propria. Intestinal pathogens represent potent experimental tools to probe these barriers and decipher how pathogens can circumvent them. The streptomycin mouse model of oral
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium infection provides a well-characterized, robust experimental system for such studies. Strikingly, each stage of the gut tissue infection poses a different set of challenges to the pathogen and requires tight control of virulence factor expression, host response modulation, and cooperation between phenotypic subpopulations. Therefore, successful infection of the intestinal tissue relies on a delicate and dynamic balance between responses of the pathogen and its host. These mechanisms can be deciphered to their full extent only in realistic
in vivo
infection models.
Salmonella
Single-Cell Metabolism and Stress Responses in Complex Host Tissues
Authors: Bumann Dirk
Published: April 2019

Systemic
Salmonella enterica
infections are a major cause of mortality worldwide and are becoming increasingly untreatable. Recent single-cell data from a mouse model of typhoid fever show that the host immune system actually eradicates many
Salmonella
cells, while other
Salmonella
organisms thrive at the same time in the same tissue, causing lethal disease progression. The surviving
Salmonella
cells have highly heterogeneous metabolism, growth rates, and exposure to various stresses. Emerging evidence suggests that similarly heterogeneous host-pathogen encounters might be a key feature of many infectious diseases. This heterogeneity offers fascinating opportunities for research and application. If we understand the mechanisms that determine the disparate local outcomes, we might be able to develop entirely novel strategies for infection control by broadening successful host antimicrobial attacks and closing permissive niches in which pathogens can thrive. This review describes suitable technologies, a current working model of heterogeneous host-
Salmonella
interactions, the impact of diverse
Salmonella
subsets on antimicrobial chemotherapy, and major open questions and challenges.
Customizing Host Chromatin: a Bacterial Tale
Authors: Connor Michael , Arbibe Laurence , Hamon Mélanie
Published: April 2019

Successful bacterial colonizers and pathogens have evolved with their hosts and have acquired mechanisms to customize essential processes that benefit their lifestyle. In large part, bacterial survival hinges on shaping the transcriptional signature of the host, a process regulated at the chromatin level. Modifications of chromatin, either on histone proteins or on DNA itself, are common targets during bacterium-host cross talk and are the focus of this article.
Cellular Imaging of Intracellular Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Stévenin Virginie , Enninga Jost
Published: April 2019

The spatial dimensions of host cells and bacterial microbes are perfectly suited to being studied by microscopy techniques. Therefore, cellular imaging has been instrumental in uncovering many paradigms of the intracellular lifestyle of microbes. Initially, microscopy was used as a qualitative, descriptive tool. However, with the onset of specific markers and the power of computer-assisted image analysis, imaging can now be used to gather quantitative data on biological processes. This makes imaging a driving force for the study of cellular phenomena. One particular imaging modality stands out, which is based on the physical principles of fluorescence. Fluorescence is highly specific and therefore can be exploited to label biomolecules of choice. It is also very sensitive, making it possible to follow individual molecules with this approach. Also, microscopy hardware has played an important role in putting microscopy in the spotlight for host-pathogen investigations. For example, microscopes have been automated for microscopy-based screenings. A new generation of microscopes and molecular probes are being used to image events below the resolution limit of light. Finally, workflows are being developed to link light microscopy with electron microscopy methods via correlative light electron microscopy. We are witnessing a golden age of cellular imaging in cellular microbiology.
The
Wolbachia
Endosymbionts
Authors: Landmann Frédéric
Published: April 2019

The
Wolbachia
endosymbionts encompass a large group of intracellular bacteria of biomedical and veterinary relevance, closely related to
Anaplasma
,
Ehrlichia
, and
Rickettsia
. This genus of Gram-negative members of the
Alphaproteobacteria
does not infect vertebrates but is instead restricted to ecdysozoan species, including terrestrial arthropods and a family of parasitic filarial nematodes, the Onchocercidae. The
Wolbachia
profoundly impact not only the ecology and evolution but also the reproductive biology of their hosts, through a wide range of symbiotic interactions. Because they are essential to the survival and reproduction of their filarial nematode hosts, they represent an attractive target to fight filariasis. Their abilities to spread through insect populations and to affect vector competence through pathogen protection have made
Wolbachia
a staple for controlling vector-borne diseases. Estimated to be present in up to 66% of insect species, the
Wolbachia
are probably the most abundant endosymbionts on earth. Their success resides in their unique capacity to infect and manipulate the host germ line to favor their vertical transmission through the maternal lineage. Because the
Wolbachia
resist genetic manipulation and growth in axenic culture, our understanding of their biology is still in its infancy. Despite these limitations, the “-omics” revolution combined with the use of well-established and emerging experimental host models is accelerating our comprehension of the host phenotypes caused by
Wolbachia
, and the identification of
Wolbachia
effectors is ongoing.
Using a Systems Biology Approach To Study Host-Pathogen Interactions
Authors: Yeung Amy , Hale Christine , Clare Simon , Palmer Sophie , Bartholdson Scott Josefin , Baker Stephen , Dougan Gordon
Published: April 2019

The rapid development of genomics and other “-omics” approaches has significantly impacted how we have investigated host-pathogen interactions since the turn of the millennium. Technologies such as next-generation sequencing, stem cell biology, and high-throughput proteomics have transformed the scale and sensitivity with which we interrogate biological samples. These approaches are impacting experimental design in the laboratory and transforming clinical management in health care systems. Here, we review this area from the perspective of research on bacterial pathogens.
Shigella
Pathogenesis: New Insights through Advanced Methodologies
Authors: Schnupf Pamela , Sansonetti Philippe J.
Published: April 2019

Shigella
is a genus of Gram-negative enteropathogens that have long been, and continue to be, an important public health concern worldwide. Over the past several decades,
Shigella
spp. have also served as model pathogens in the study of bacterial pathogenesis, and
Shigella flexneri
has become one of the best-studied pathogens on a molecular, cellular, and tissue level. In the arms race between
Shigella
and the host immune system,
Shigella
has developed highly sophisticated mechanisms to subvert host cell processes in order to promote infection, escape immune detection, and prevent bacterial clearance. Here, we give an overview of
Shigella
pathogenesis while highlighting innovative techniques and methods whose application has significantly advanced our understanding of
Shigella
pathogenesis in recent years.
Electron Cryotomography of Bacterial Secretion Systems
Authors: Oikonomou Catherine M. , Jensen Grant J.
Published: April 2019

In biology, function arises from form. For bacterial secretion systems, which often span two membranes, avidly bind to the cell wall, and contain hundreds of individual proteins, studying form is a daunting task, made possible by electron cryotomography (ECT). ECT is the highest-resolution imaging technique currently available to visualize unique objects inside cells, providing a three-dimensional view of the shapes and locations of large macromolecular complexes in their native environment. Over the past 15 years, ECT has contributed to the study of bacterial secretion systems in two main ways: by revealing intact forms for the first time and by mapping components into these forms. Here we highlight some of these contributions, revealing structural convergence in type II secretion systems, structural divergence in type III secretion systems, unexpected structures in type IV secretion systems, and unexpected mechanisms in types V and VI secretion systems. Together, they offer a glimpse into a world of fantastic forms—nanoscale rotors, needles, pumps, and dart guns—much of which remains to be explored.
Localised bullous pemphigoid overlying knee arthroplasty: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Truss Adam , Papalexandris Stylianos , Gardner Susan , Harvey Robert
Published: April 2019

An elderly Caucasian woman developed bullous pemphigoid (BP) overlying the site of total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis 2 days after surgery. The clinical findings were consistent with blistering due to soft tissue swelling, bullous impetigo or allergic contact dermatitis. The blistering spread over weeks to months down the ipsilateral leg and then to the other leg and hips. A biopsy for H&E and direct immunofluorescence established the diagnosis of BP. A concomitantly occurring wound infection was identified and treated. The blistering responded well to superpotent topical steroids and local care.
Hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism: an immunological pendulum swing from two extreme poles – a case series
Authors: Kafrouni Gerges Antoni R , Clark Sara N , Shawa Hassan
Published: April 2019

We report two women who were diagnosed with hypothyroidism due to what was thought to be Hashimoto’s thyroiditis 18 and 16 years ago, respectively. They had been euthyroid on stable doses of levothyroxine for many years, and they presented to our clinic with clinically and biochemically overt hyperthyroidism that persisted even after stopping levothyroxine. Immunological and imaging workups were consistent with Graves’ disease. Both patients were treated medically and then received definitive treatment. To our knowledge, the intervals for these two conversions are among the longest conversion intervals reported in the medical literature.
A gay Nigerian man’s journey to asylum in the USA
Authors: Nguyen Mytien , Handoko Ryan , Asabor Emmanuella , McKenzie Katherine C
Published: April 2019

We report the case of an individual from Nigeria seeking asylum in the USA on the basis of persecution for being gay, who was physically and sexually assaulted in Nigeria and detained upon arrival to the USA. We present physical examination findings and the results of a brief mental health evaluation performed at Elizabeth Detention Center in New Jersey for his asylum evaluation. Individuals are able to seek asylum as members of a “particular social group”, in this case, being gay. They seek asylum in the USA as they will continue to be at risk for harm if they stay in their home countries. However, the detention of asylum seekers often violates US human rights obligations and can occur without formal oversight. We explore the unique complications and experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer asylum seekers throughout the asylum process, from Nigeria to a detention centre in the USA.
Should the laparoscopic approach be the norm for appendicectomy in the third trimester of pregnancy?
Authors: Sekar Hashviniya , Rajesh Thamaran Nisha , Stoker David , Das Sayantana , Yoong Wai
Published: April 2019

Our case describes a pregnant woman with acute appendicitis who presented in the third trimester and underwent a laparoscopic appendicectomy. She made a rapid postoperative recovery and the pregnancy was otherwise uncomplicated, ending with a spontaneous vaginal birth at 41 weeks. The diagnosis of acute appendicitis can be unclear in pregnancy. Difficulty in establishing diagnosis due to atypical presentation often leads to delay in surgery, resulting in significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Surgical intervention should be prompt in cases of suspected appendicitis and the laparoscopic approach is advocated in the first two trimesters. In the third trimester (after 28 weeks), laparotomy is often performed due to the size of the uterus and the theoretical risk of inadvertent perforation with trocar placement. More recently, several authors have described successful outcomes following laparoscopic appendicectomy after 28 weeks and with increasing reassuring data, we suggest that this minimally invasive approach should be considered in managing appendicitis in the third trimester.
Post-traumatic bronchobiliary fistula
Authors: Banerjee Niladri , Rattan Amulya , Priyadarshini Pratyusha , Kumar Subodh
Published: April 2019

Post-traumatic bronchobiliary fistula (BBF) is a rare entity, with only a few cases reported worldwide. Bilioptysis is pathognomonic of the condition, however, bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage along with CT are used for confirmation. We describe this condition in a young woman who presented to us with bilioptysis following a laparotomy for blunt torso trauma. Diagnosis was made of BBF, followed by surgical management and complete recovery. We emphasise the signs of early diagnosis, confirmatory tests, individualised treatment and advocate surgical management as the gold standard of treatment.
Prostatic cyst in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: unusual association
Authors: Sood Vivek , Pattanashetti Navin , Bilal Azam Mohamed , Ramachandran Raja
Published: April 2019

Prostate cyst, as an extrarenal manifestation in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, although infrequent, nevertheless goes beyond tenuous concomitance and may rarely contribute to recurrent urinary tract infection or outflow obstruction and mostly remains asymptomatic. In this context, we report a case of incidentally detected, an asymptomatic prostatic cyst in a patient of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.
Post-total knee arthroplasty herpes zoster activation
Authors: Jain Mantu , Tripathy Prabhas Ranjan , Mohanty Chitta Ranjan
Published: April 2019

Herpes zoster is a clinical manifestation of reactivation of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) that lies dormant in the dorsal root ganglia after a past primary infection. It can be associated with severe pain, a crop of vesicles in typical dermatomal distribution but the neuralgic pain persists long, making the patient uncomfortable and often disturbing patient’s sleep. There are cases reported after trauma or post surgeries that are mainly related to organ transplant or malignancy. In the literature, there is a solitary report of VZV infection along the sciatic nerve post ipsilateral hip and contralateral knee joint replacement. Here, we report a VZV infection in post knee replacement setting along the L2-3 dermatomal distribution.
Haemodiafiltration as an effective treatment option for massive paracetamol overdose
Authors: Ali Muzzammil , Misurati Mohammad , Rodgers Rebekah , Pooni Jagtar
Published: April 2019

An 84-year-old woman presented to hospital with severe clinical and metabolic sequelaesequelae of a massive paracetamol overdose (concentration=822 mg/L). In spite of N-acetylcysteine therapy, she deteriorated with evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction. Although the EXtracorporeal TReatments In Poisoning group recommend adjunct haemodialysis (HD) in such a context, this was difficult to start due to haemodynamic instability. Instead, a trial of continuous venovenous haemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) was initiated in an attempt to restore normal mitochondrial function, normal pH and to actively remove the offending drug. Fortunately, plasma paracetamol levels fell exponentially over the subsequent 24–48 hours without the need to commence HD. The patient made a full recovery and was later discharged from the hospital. This case highlights that CVVHDF can be a reasonable alternative to HD for managing massive paracetamol overdoses in the context of mitochondrial dysfunction.
International consensus definitions of video signs of concussion in professional sports
Authors: Davis Gavin A , Makdissi Michael , Bloomfield Paul , Clifton Patrick , Echemendia Ruben J , Falvey Éanna Cian , Fuller Gordon Ward , Green Gary , Harcourt Peter , Hill Thomas , McGuirk Nathan , Meeuwisse Willem , Orchard John , Raftery Martin , Sills Allen K , Solomon Gary S , Valadka Alex , McCrory Paul
Published: April 2019

Background

The use of video to assist professional sporting bodies with the diagnosis of sport-related concussion (SRC) has been well established; however, there has been little consistency across sporting codes with regards to which video signs should be used, and the definitions of each of these signs.

Aim

The aims of this study were to develop a consensus for the video signs considered to be most useful in the identification of a possible SRC and to develop a consensus definition for each of these video signs across the sporting codes.

Methods

A brief questionnaire was used to assess which video signs were considered to be most useful in the identification of a possible concussion. Consensus was defined as >90% agreement by respondents. Existing definitions of these video signs from individual sports were collated, and individual components of the definitions were assessed and ranked. A modified Delphi approach was then used to create a consensus definition for each of the video signs.

Results

Respondents representing seven sporting bodies (Australian Football League, Cricket Australia, Major League Baseball, NFL, NHL, National Rugby League, World Rugby) reached consensus on eight video signs of concussion. Thirteen representatives from the seven professional sports ranked the definition components. Consolidation and refinement of the video signs and their definitions resulted in consensus definitions for six video signs of possible concussion:
lying motionless, motor incoordination, impact seizure, tonic posturing, no protective action—floppy
and
blank/vacant look
.

Conclusions

These video signs and definitions have reached international consensus, are indicated for use by professional sporting bodies and will form the basis for further collaborative research.
Neurological disorders, affective bioethics, and the nervous system: reconsidering the Schiavo case from a materialist perspective
Authors: Wolf-Meyer Matthew
Published: April 2019

This article proposes a novel approach to bioethics, referred to as “affective bioethics”, which draws on traditions in anthropology, science and technology studies, disability studies, and Spinozist materialism. By focusing on the case of Michael and Terri Schiavo, in which Terri’s personhood and subjectivity are challenged by dominant forms of neurological reductivism in the USA, this article suggests that approaching her condition as a set of relations with the people in her life and her socio-technical environment may have helped to develop new ways to conceptualise personhood and subjectivity moving beyond the view of her as a non-person. Drawing on Michael Schiavo’s memoir of his legal battles, and Terri’s diagnosis and care, this article shows how Terri’s connections to the world disrupt American ideas about the isolatable individual as the basis for personhood and subjectivity. Attending to these interpersonal and socio-technical connections focuses bioethical attention on the worlds that individuals inhabit, and how those worlds might be designed to make more kinds of life livable and new forms of personhood and subjectivity possible.
Root canal treatments and crown lengthening in an adult jaguar (Panthera onca)
Authors: O’Sullivan Sean , Almansa Ruiz José Carlos , Toosy Arshad , Steenkamp Gerhard
Published: April 2019

Pathological dental conditions in zoo animals are frequently encountered, although under‐reported in the veterinary literature. Teeth fractures are commonly encountered in carnivores and often require specialised endodontic intervention. This paper describes gingivectomy of a peripheral odontogenic fibroma of the left maxillary gingivae; crown lengthening of the left mandibular canine; and pulpectomies of complicated crown fractures of the left maxillary canine tooth (204), left mandibular canine tooth (304) and left third maxillary incisor (203) in an adult jaguar (Panthera onca). Follow‐on dental examination at 18 months and postoperative radiographs at 24 months found no evidence of further dental pathology. Dental examination and prophylaxis are essential components of the examination procedure. There are limited opportunities to make routine clinical assessments in zoo animals. The availability of specialised materials, equipment and specialised veterinary assistance are limitations as relevant to zoological dentistry today as when described by Fowler in 1986.
Extracapsular articulating implant to treat cranial cruciate ligament disease in a dog with multiple myeloma
Authors: Lhuillery Eloise Elisabeth , Witte Philip Georg
Published: April 2019

An 11‐year‐old Border collie was presented for left hindlimb lameness associated with cranial cruciate ligament disease. The history included right tibial plateau levelling osteotomy performed approximately two years previously, with a subjectively good outcome. Multiple myeloma had been diagnosed approximately two months before presentation of the left hindlimb lameness. Medical treatment of multiple myeloma included glucocorticoids (prednisolone) and melphalan. Stabilisation of the left stifle was performed with the Simitri Stable in Stride extracapsular articulating implant. The dog demonstrated weightbearing on the operated limb within 24 hours following surgery. Re‐examination six weeks following surgery revealed mild left hindlimb lameness, no resentment to manipulation of the left stifle, no cranial tibial thrust and a mild reduction in the range of motion. Hindlimb function was affected by various neurological events considered secondary to the malignant neoplasia; however, left stifle function was good until euthanasia 11 months following surgery.
Lag screw fixation of an ulnar carpal bone fracture in a dog
Authors: Witte Philip Georg
Published: April 2019

A two‐year‐old, entire male saluki presented with right forelimb lameness of acute onset six weeks previously, associated with a transverse minimally displaced ulnar carpal bone fracture. A palmarolateral approach was made to access the ulnar carpal bone. A 2.0‐mm cortical bone screw was placed in lag fashion from the palmar process into the ulnar carpal bone, reducing and compressing the fracture. Re‐examinations at seven and 12 weeks following surgery revealed incomplete resolution of right forelimb lameness, a mildly reduced carpal joint range of motion and radiographic maintenance of reduction. Client follow‐up by telephone after 18 months revealed the dog to be exercising as normal, including performing agility exercises. The owners were aware of no stiffness following rest or following exercise.
Spontaneous regression of a cervical intervertebral disc extrusion in French bulldogs documented on MRI after medical management
Authors: Argent Victoria , Fraser Anne , Alves Lisa , Freeman Paul
Published: April 2019

Spontaneous regression of cervical intervertebral disc extrusion (cIVDE) has been reported in people. It has also been reported in a dog after four months of medical management. Two French bulldogs were presented to two different referral centres for signs of neck pain or myoclonic twitching. Both were diagnosed with cIVDE on MRI and were managed medically. One dog re‐presented after six weeks with recurrent signs while it was still being strictly rested. Repeat MRI showed a new disc extrusion with apparent spontaneous regression of the initial cIVDE. The same re‐presentation occurred in the second dog with a year intermission. These two cases demonstrate that spontaneous regression of intervertebral disc extrusion is a phenomenon occurring in the cervical spine of dogs. Notably one dog had a new disc extrusion during a period of rest, thus illustrating that further work is needed to understand how best to utilise medical management and crate rest.
Effect of Text Messaging on Risk Factor Management in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Zheng Xin , Spatz Erica S. , Bai Xueke , Huo Xiqian , Ding Qinglan , Horak Paul , Wu Xuekun , Guan Wenchi , Chow Clara K. , Yan Xiaofang , Sun Ying , Wang Xiuling , Zhang Haibo , Liu Jiamin , Li Jing , Li Xi , Spertus John A. , Masoudi Frederick A. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Mobile health technologies are low cost, scalable interventions with the potential to promote patient engagement and behavior change. We aimed to test whether a culturally sensitive text messaging intervention supporting secondary prevention improves the control of risk factors in patients with coronary heart disease in China.

Methods and Results:

In this multicenter, single-blinded randomized controlled trial, 822 patients (mean age, 56.4 [SD, 9.5] years; 14.1% women) with coronary heart disease and without diabetes mellitus from 37 hospitals in China were enrolled between August 2016 and March 2017. In addition to usual care, the control group (n=411) received 2 thank you messages/month; the intervention group (n=411) received 6 text messages/week for 6 months delivered by an automated computerized system. The messages provided educational and motivational information related to disease-specific knowledge, risk factor control, physical activity, and medication adherence. The primary end point was change in systolic blood pressure from baseline to 6 months. Secondary end points included the proportion with systolic blood pressure <140 mm Hg, smoking status, and change in body mass index, LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and physical activity (assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire). The end points were assessed using analyses of covariance. Follow-up was 99.6%. At 6 months, systolic blood pressure was not significantly lower in the intervention group compared with the control group, with a mean change (SD) of 3.2 (14.3) mm Hg and 2.0 (15.0) mm Hg (
P
>0.05) from baseline, respectively (mean net change, −1.3 mm Hg [95% CI, −3.3 to 0.8];
P
=0.221). There were no significant differences in the change in LDL-C level, physical activity, body mass index, or smoking status between the 2 groups. Nearly all patients in the intervention group reported the text messages to be useful (96.1%), easy to understand (98.8%), appropriate in frequency (93.8%), and reported being willing to receive future text messages (94.8%).

Conclusions:

Text messages supporting secondary prevention among patients with coronary heart disease did not lead to a greater reduction in blood pressure at 6 months. Mobile phone text messaging for secondary prevention was feasible and highly acceptable to patients.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02888769.
Dynamic Volumetric Computed Tomography Angiography Is a Preferred Method for Unclassified Endoleaks by Conventional Computed Tomography Angiography After Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Hou Kai , Zhu Ting , Zhang Wei , Zeng Mengsu , Guo Daqiao , Fu Weiguo , Si Yi
Published: April 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of dynamic volumetric computed tomography angiography (
DV
‐
CTA
) for endoleaks detected but not classified by conventional
CTA
in patients after endovascular aortic repair.

Methods and Results

From January 2016 to October 2017, 24 patients with endoleaks with aneurysm sac enlargement detected but not classified by conventional
CTA
were randomly assigned to the conventional
CTA
group and the
DV
‐
CTA
group for further evaluation. The amount of contrast agent, radiation dosage, and changes in creatinine during the operation were compared between the 2 groups. Reintervention was performed according to the endoleak classification followed by the 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up. The accuracy of classifying endoleaks by
DV
‐
CTA
was comparable to that by digital subtraction angiography. Additionally, the total amount of contrast agent and the radiation dosage in the
DV
‐
CTA
group during the operation were diminished by 14.0% (
P
=0.007) and 12.1% (
P
=0.004), respectively, compared with those in the conventional
CTA
group. No contrast‐induced nephropathy was observed. All endoleaks were treated instantly after identification. No endoleaks were found in any of the patients during follow‐up.

Conclusions

DV
‐
CTA
could replace digital subtraction angiography as an alternative method for the classification of endoleaks that cannot be differentiated by conventional
CTA
. Additionally, the amount of contrast agent and the total radiation dosage were substantially reduced, which improved safety among operators and patients.
Role of Thioredoxin 1 in Impaired Renal Sodium Excretion of
hD

5

R

F173L

Transgenic Mice
Authors: Wang Shaoxiong , Tan Xiaorong , Chen Peng , Zheng Shuo , Ren Hongmei , Cai Jin , Zhou Lin , Jose Pedro A. , Yang Jian , Zeng Chunyu
Published: April 2019

Background

Dopamine D
5
receptor (D
5
R) plays an important role in the maintenance of blood pressure by regulating renal sodium transport. Our previous study found that human D
5
R mutant F173L transgenic (
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG) mice are hypertensive. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms causing this renal D
5
R dysfunction in
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG mice.

Methods and Results

Compared with wild‐type D
5
R‐TG (
hD

5

R

WT

‐TG) mice,
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG mice have higher blood pressure, lower basal urine flow and sodium excretion, and impaired agonist‐mediated natriuresis and diuresis. Enhanced reactive oxygen species production in
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG mice is caused, in part, by decreased expression of antioxidant enzymes, including thioredoxin 1 (Trx1). Na
+
‐K
+
‐ATPase activity is increased in mouse renal proximal tubule cells transfected with
hD

5

R

F173L

, but is normalized by treatment with exogenous recombinant human Trx1 protein. Regulation of Trx1 by D
5
R occurs by the phospholipase C/ protein kinase C (PKC) pathway because upregulation of Trx1 expression by D
5
R does not occur in renal proximal tubule cells from D
1
R knockout mice in the presence of a phospholipase C or PKC inhibitor. Fenoldopam, a D
1
R and D
5
R agonist, stimulates PKC activity in primary renal proximal tubule cells of
hD5R

WT

‐
TG mice, but not in those of
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG mice. Hyperphosphorylation of hD
5
R
F173L
and its dissociation from Gαs and Gαq are associated with impairment of D
5
R‐mediated inhibition of Na
+
‐K
+
‐ATPase activity in
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG mice.

Conclusions

These suggest that
hD

5

R

F173L

increases blood pressure, in part, by decreasing renal Trx1 expression and increasing reactive oxygen species production. Hyperphosphorylation of hD
5
R
F173L
, with its dissociation from Gαs and Gαq, is the key factor in impaired D
5
R function of
hD

5

R

F173L

‐TG mice.
Rivaroxaban, a Direct Factor Xa Inhibitor, Ameliorates Hypertensive Renal Damage Through Inhibition of the Inflammatory Response Mediated by Protease‐Activated Receptor Pathway
Authors: Ichikawa Hiroaki , Shimada Michiko , Narita Masato , Narita Ikuyo , Kimura Yoshihiro , Tanaka Makoto , Osanai Tomohiro , Okumura Ken , Tomita Hirofumi
Published: April 2019

Background

An enhanced renin‐angiotensin system causes hypertensive renal damage. Factor Xa not only functions in the coagulation cascade but also activates intracellular signaling through protease‐activated receptors (
PAR
). We investigated the effects of rivaroxaban, a factor Xa inhibitor, on hypertensive renal damage in hypertensive mice overexpressing renin (Ren‐TG).

Methods and Results

The 12‐ to 16‐week‐old Ren‐TG and wild‐type mice were orally administered with or without 6 or 12 mg/kg of rivaroxaban for 1 or 4 months. Plasma factor Xa was significantly increased in the Ren‐TG compared with the wild‐type mice and was reduced by 12 mg/kg of rivaroxaban (
P
<0.05). Urinary albumin excretion (UAE) was higher in the nontreated 8‐month‐old Ren‐TG than in the wild‐type mice (69.6±29 versus 20.1±8.2 μg/day;
P
<0.01). Treatment with 12 mg/kg of rivaroxaban for 4 months decreased the
UAE
to 38.1±13.2 μg/day (
P
<0.01). Moreover, rivaroxaban treatment attenuated histologic changes of glomerular hypertrophy, mesangial matrix expansion, effacement of the podocyte foot process, and thickened glomerular basement membrane in the Ren‐TG. The renal expression of
PAR
‐2 was increased in the Ren‐TG, but was inhibited with rivaroxaban treatment. In vitro study using the human podocytes showed that the expressions of
PAR
‐2 and inflammatory genes and nuclear factor–‐κB activation were induced by angiotensin
II
stimulation, but were inhibited by rivaroxaban.
PAR
‐2 knockdown by small interfering
RNA
also attenuated the
PAR
‐2‐related inflammatory gene expressions.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that rivaroxaban exerts protective effects against angiotensin II–induced renal damage, partly through inhibition of the
PAR
‐2 signaling‐mediated inflammatory response.
Marital Matching, Economies of Scale, and Intrahousehold Allocations
Authors: Cherchye Laurens , De Rock Bram , Surana Khushboo , Vermeulen Frederic
Published: April 2019

We propose a novel nonparametric method to empirically identify economies of scale in multiperson household consumption. We assume consumption technologies that define the public and private nature of expenditures through Barten scales. Our method (solely) exploits preference information revealed by a cross-section of household observations while accounting for fully unobserved preference heterogeneity. An application to data drawn from the US Panel Study of Income Dynamics shows that the method yields informative results on scale economies and intrahousehold allocation patterns. In addition, it allows us to define individual compensation schemes required to preserve the same consumption level in case of marriage dissolution or spousal death.
Creativity Under Fire: The Effects of Competition on Creative Production
Authors: Gross Daniel P.
Published: April 2019

Though fundamental to innovation and essential to many industries and occupations, individual creativity has received limited attention as an economic behavior and has historically proven difficult to study. This paper studies the incentive effects of competition on individuals' creative production. Using a sample of commercial logo design competitions and a novel, content-based measure of originality, I find that intensifying competition induces agents to produce original, untested ideas over tweaking their earlier work, but heavy competition drives them to stop investing altogether. The results yield lessons for the management of creative workers and the implementation of competitive procurement mechanisms for innovation.
Does Cutting the Tax Rate to Zero Induce Behavior Different from Other Tax Cuts? Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Waseem Mazhar
Published: April 2019

Using a series of Pakistani tax reforms and administrative records, I document that taxable income responses induced by to-zero tax cuts are orders of magnitude larger than ones induced by similar-sized other cuts. This finding is remarkably robust to alternative specifications and holds for both the self-employed and wage earners. I explore salience, selective enforcement, and discontinuous evasion costs as explanations of the observed behavior. I find that the data favor the last explanation. The difference between the two sets of responses is primarily driven by a large, discrete tax evasion response, which is included in the former but not in the latter behavior. I estimate the difference as a lower bound on tax evasion, showing that at least 70% of the income of low- and middle-income self-employed and 1% of low-income wage earners goes unreported.
The Benefits of Commitment to a Currency Peg: Aggregate Lessons from the Regional Effects of the 1896 U.S. Presidential Election
Authors: Fulford Scott L. , Schwartzman Felipe
Published: April 2019

We develop a method to use the one-time cross-sectional impact of a cleanly identified shock to identify its aggregate impact through the use of a factor model. We apply this methodology to evaluate the importance of fluctuations to the commitment to a currency peg for macroeconomic outcomes during the gold standard period in the United States. The presidential election in 1896 provides a cleanly identified positive shock to commitment to the gold standard. After the election, bank leverage increased substantially, particularly in states where gold was in greater use. Using the latent factor identified by the election, we find that full commitment to gold had the potential to reduce the volatility of real activity overall by a significant amount in the last two decades of the nineteenth century, as well as substantially mitigate the economic depression starting in 1893.
Universal Cash and Crime
Authors: Watson Brett , Guettabi Mouhcine , Reimer Matthew
Published: April 2019

We estimate the effects of universal cash transfers on crime from Alaska's Permanent Fund Dividend, an annual lump-sum payment to all Alaska residents. We find a 14% increase in substance-abuse incidents the day after the payment and a 10% increase over the following four weeks. This is partially offset by an 8% decrease in property crime, with no changes in violent crimes. On an annual basis, however, changes in criminal activity from the payment are small. Estimated costs comprise a very small portion of the total payment, suggesting that crime-related concerns of a universal cash transfer program may be unwarranted.
Thermo-electrical behaviour of cyclic olefin copolymer/exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets nanocomposites foamed through supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Dorigato A , Biani A , Bonani W , Pegoretti A
Published: April 2019

In this work, novel electrically conductive cyclic olefin copolymer/exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets foams were prepared through a supercritical carbon dioxide treatment starting from the corresponding unfoamed materials prepared by melt compounding, in order to investigate their thermo-electrical properties. For both unfoamed and foamed samples, the exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets introduction led to a systematic enhancement of the thermal degradation temperature. Dynamic-mechanical thermal analysis revealed that the nanofiller addition promoted an enhancement of the storage modulus and of the glass transition temperature over the whole range of the applied foaming pressures. While for unfoamed materials exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets introduction determined an important decrease of the electrical resistivity, the foaming process induced the breakage of the conductive path, with a consequent increase of electrical resistivity. Evaluation of the surface heating upon voltage application showed that the surface temperature of unfoamed materials could be noticeably increased at relatively low voltage levels, while a less pronounced surface heating could be obtained with the corresponding nanocomposite foams.