bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lessons Learned in Creating Interoperable Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources Profiles for Large-Scale Public Health Programs
Authors: Matney Susan , Heale Bret , Hasley Steve , Decker Emily , Frederiksen Brittni , Davis Nathan , Langford Patrick , Ramey Nadia , Huff Stanley
Published: February 2019

Objective This article describes lessons learned from the collaborative creation of logical models and standard Health Level Seven (HL7) Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) profiles for family planning and reproductive health. The National Health Service delivery program will use the FHIR profiles to improve federal reporting, program monitoring, and quality improvement efforts.

Materials and Methods Organizational frameworks, work processes, and artifact testing to create FHIR profiles are described.

Results Logical models and FHIR profiles for the Family Planning Annual Report 2.0 dataset have been created and validated.

Discussion Using clinical element models and FHIR to meet the needs of a real-world use case has been accomplished but has also demonstrated the need for additional tooling, terminology services, and application sandbox development.

Conclusion FHIR profiles may reduce the administrative burden for the reporting of federally mandated program data.
Bone Conduction Implants for Hearing Rehabilitation in Skull Base Tumor Patients
Authors: Placke Lauren , Appelbaum Eric , Patel Akash , Sweeney Alex
Published: February 2019

Bone conduction implants transfer sound to the inner ear through direct vibration of the skull. In patients with skull base tumors and infections, these devices can bypass a dysfunctional ear canal and/or middle ear. Though not all skull base surgery patients opt for bone conduction hearing rehabilitation, a variety of these devices have been developed and marketed over time. This article reviews the evolution and existing state of bone conduction technology.
The Impact of Gender on Postoperative Complications after Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Gu Alex , Wei Chapman , Bernstein Simone A. , Nguyen Nam Tran T. , Sobrio Shane A. , Liu Jiabin , Sculco Peter K.
Published: February 2019

Knee osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis, often treated by total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Complications can arise after TKAs, which may necessitate revision TKAs and further treatments. However, there remains a paucity of literature regarding influence of gender on postoperative complication rates after revision TKA. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients who received revision TKAs between 2007 and 2014 were identified and recorded as male or female. Univariate and multivariate analysis was used to evaluate the incidence of multiple adverse events within 30 days of revision TKA. This study included 9,914 patients who underwent revision TKA (females = 5,728 [57.8%]; males = 4 186 [42.2%]). Male patients were shown to be at greater risk for developing 7 of 17 complications compared with female patients, and female patients were shown to be at greater risk for urinary tract infection (UTI) development. Multivariate analysis showed males as an independent risk factor for four complications and females as an independent risk factor for UTI development. Male patients were more likely to develop more complications postoperatively than female patients. Although the possibility of developing complications is relatively low, orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of increased postoperative complication rates when counseling patients who undergo revision TKA.
Total Knee Arthroplasty for Fixed Valgus Deformity Correction Using a Modified Lateral Parapatellar Approach
Authors: Li Hu , Ponzio Danielle Y. , Ong Alvin , Wei Wei , Wang Baicheng , Li Zhichang , Zhou Diange
Published: February 2019

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for patients with valgus deformity (> 10 degrees) is technically challenging and has produced variable clinical results in terms of deformity correction, instability, and overall outcomes. The lateral parapatellar approach (LPA) is an alternative to the traditional medial parapatellar approach with potential advantages of direct access for release of tight lateral ligamentous structures with preservation of the medial structures, optimized patellar tracking, preserved medial blood supply to the patella, and less use of constrained implants. We present a case series of a single institution's experience with use of a modified LPA using a Z-capsuloplasty for 35 primary TKA cases in 30 patients with osteoarthritis and Ranawat's type-II fixed valgus deformity with attenuation of medial soft tissues. The mean age of patients was 64.8 years (range: 42–78 years). Follow-up duration was a mean of 47.3 months (range: 3–130 months). The patients were assessed pre- and postoperatively using radiographic measurement of the anatomic femorotibial angle (FTA) and clinical measurement of range of motion (ROM) and the Chinese knee society score (KSS). Complications and reoperations were recorded. The mean coronal alignment was corrected from 20.4 degrees of valgus (range: 11.3–42 degrees) preoperatively to 7.0 degrees of valgus (range: 3.6–15.1 degrees) postoperatively. One case required use of a constrained condylar design implant. At a mean of 47.3 months, the mean Knee Society objective and functional scores improved to 91.8 ± 6.6 and 84.3 ± 18.2 points, respectively. Mean ROM was 94.9 degrees preoperatively and 105.7 degrees postoperatively. Three cases (8.6%) had postoperative complications, including transient common peroneal nerve palsy, hematoma, and deep infection. One patient underwent two-stage revision for infection. There were no cases of late instability. The modified LPA using a Z-capsuloplasty is a reproducible and effective surgical technique for performing TKA in the setting of osteoarthritis and severe valgus deformity.
Pericardial fluids or Cardiopulmonary Bypass—Is There a Major Culprit for Changes in Coagulation and Inflammation?
Authors: Gorki Hagen , Nakamura Julia , Kunert Andreas , Hoenicka Markus , Liebold Andreas
Published: February 2019

Background From the results of a previous study, it remained to be investigated if a perioperative rise of few tested coagulation and inflammation markers is caused by conventional cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) itself or rather by direct recirculation of pericardial fluids.

Methods Forty-eight patients operated on with conventional CPB for myocardial revascularization were randomized either for direct recirculation of pericardial suction fluids or for cell saving (CS).

Results Thrombin–antithrombin complexes showed lower values intraoperatively in the CS group (p < 0.0001), and D-dimers tended to remain lower at intensive care unit arrival (p = 0.095). Tests of inflammation markers were less meaningful.

Conclusion Direct recirculation of pericardial fluids rather than conventional CPB itself causes major intraoperative changes of some coagulation markers. Pericardial blood loss with direct recirculation should be kept to a minimum to avoid unnecessary activation of coagulation. Inflammation markers need further investigations.
Radiation Exposure during Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy: Interlaminar versus Transforaminal
Authors: Amato Marcelo , Aprile Bruno , de Oliveira Cezar
Published: February 2019

Objective Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) relies heavily on fluoroscopy guidance; therefore, medical staff exposure to radiation has become an important issue. The purpose of this study was to determine the radiation dose and the amount of time to which the surgeons are exposed during PELD and to compare both parameters in the transforaminal (TF) and interlaminar (IL) approaches. Although they are considerably different, they may be wrongly considered together.

Methods A retrospective evaluation of the last 20 PELD performed by the authors is presented. Patients were distributed in 2 groups. Six (1F, 5M) patients were submitted to IL-PELD and 14 (6F, 8M) to TF-PELD. Fluoroscopy reports were obtained from patients' records, all performed with the same C-Arm device and software mode. Groups were compared using unpaired t-test.

Results The IL group showed an average radiation exposure of 8.37 ± 4.21 mGy and duration of 11.1 ± 5.45 seconds, while the TF group showed an average radiation exposure of 28.92 ± 7.56 mGy and duration of 42 ± 16.64 seconds. The p-value for radiation was 0.0000036, and for time it was 0.00027.

Conclusions Interlaminar PELD requires a lower radiation dose and a shorter amount of exposure than TF-PELD. Studies that concern radiation required for minimally-invasive spine surgeries should consider the PELD approaches separately.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Enhance Staphylococcus Aureus Vegetation Formation through Interaction with Platelets in Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Hsu Chih-Chieh , Hsu Ron-Bin , Ohniwa Ryosuke , Chen Jeng-Wei , Yuan Chang-Tsu , Chia Jean-San , Jung Chiau-Jing
Published: February 2019

The mechanisms or host factors involved in septic thrombus or vegetation formation in Staphylococcus aureus-induced infective endocarditis (IE) are unclear. Using an experimental endocarditis rat model, here we demonstrated that S. aureus HG001-induced vegetation was composed of bacterial floes encased in aggregated platelets and surrounded by neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). In vitro data demonstrated that platelets contribute to both biofilm and NET formation. Prophylactic administration of DNase I significantly reduced the size of vegetation induced by methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) strains, even though MRSA and MSSA isolates express different biofilm phenotypes and NET-induction abilities in the presence of platelets. Moreover, delivery of both DNase I and daptomycin prophylactically and therapeutically produced synergistic effects by reducing vegetation size and bacterial numbers on damaged valve tissues in MRSA-induced IE. Together, these data suggest that NETs contribute to vegetation formation in S. aureus endocarditis and DNase I has the potential to control S. aureus-induced IE in the clinic.
12 Acridinium Dyes and Quinones in Photocatalysis
Authors: Brasholz M.
Published: February 2019

Acridinium dyes and quinones are two classes of powerful organic photooxidants. This chapter reviews the most important types of photocatalytic transformations mediated by these dyes, including photooxygenations, radical conjugate additions and cyclizations, radical cation cycloadditions, and oxidative C–H functionalizations.
16 Photocatalytic Cycloadditions
Authors: Amador A. G. , Scholz S. O. , Skubi K. L. , Yoon T. P.
Published: February 2019

Photochemical cycloadditions are powerful tools for the rapid construction of molecular and stereochemical complexity. Recent advances in visible-light photocatalysis have provided novel methods involving the generation of radical ion, neutral radical, and triplet excited-state intermediates that can participate in a variety of cycloaddition processes. This chapter highlights recent methods in this area for the synthesis of three-, four-, five-, and six-membered-ring systems.
19 Heterogeneous Photocatalysis in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Albero J. , García H.
Published: February 2019

In recent years, heterogeneous photocatalysis has emerged as a very appealing approach, not only for the degradation of pollutants, but also for the synthesis of chemicals. Although the main use of heterogeneous photocatalysis so far has been the mineralization and complete degradation of organic compounds, interest in the application of heterogeneous (photo)catalysts in organic synthesis is growing due to their potential application in the fabrication of renewable fuels as well as in the preparation of compounds and intermediates especially valuable to the chemical industry, such as pharmaceuticals or polymers. The synthesis of organic molecules assisted by heterogeneous photocatalysts has been dominated by the use of inorganic metal oxide semiconductors, especially titanium(IV) oxide; the use of other semiconductor materials, such as inorganic chalcogenides, carbon-based semiconductors, or metal–organic frameworks has been less explored. In this chapter we show that, in spite of the potential and the large number of heterogeneous photocatalysts already studied, the state of the art of heterogeneous photocatalysis in organic synthesis is still unsatisfactory and much below expectation, particularly in reactions other than oxidation and reduction, such as cross couplings, oxidative decarboxylations, and cycloadditions.
Transition of predominant mechanism for the deviation of micro-gap dc gas breakdown character with electrode gap changing
Authors: Zhang Tongkai , He Feng , Li Ben , Zhang Yu , Wang Ronggang , Ouyang Jiting
Published: February 2019

This paper explores the predominant mechanisms for the deviation of micro-gap dc gas breakdown and the transition between different mechanisms as the electrode separation d changing under a pin-to-plate electrode configuration using 2d3v particle-in-cell simulation with Monte Carlo collisions. The deviated breakdown characteristic curves as a function of d or gas pressure p are investigated and both present a plateau region. Through researching the position of discharge path, it is found that a self-modulation effect manages to maintain the breakdown voltage at the minimum value defined by Paschen’s curve in a certain d or p range and forms the plateau. The ranges of d and p for the plateau are also established. Theoretical calculation on the secondary electron emission coefficient induced by ion-enhanced field and determined by a surface roughness factor confirms that the ion-enhanced field emission effect affects the breakdown voltage significantly when d is below a critical value. The smaller the surface roughness factor is, the smaller the critical d will be. Under this effect, the breakdown voltage is decreased with d decreasing (also referred to as an increasing left branch with d increasing). Conclusively, the deviation characters of micro-gap gas breakdown are controlled by different mechanisms at different d ranges. The predominant mechanism for the deviation is the self-modulation effect, serving as the main reason for the plateau region, at moderate d of several micrometers and will transit to the ion-enhanced field emission effect, which is responsible for the increasing left branch at smaller d.
What can we deduce about the reproductive condition of spinifex hopping mice (Notomys alexis) from external examination?
Authors: Berris Karleah K. , Breed William G. , Carthew Susan M.
Published: February 2019

Field studies often use external examination of the vagina or the swelling of the scrotum to make deductions about the reproductive condition of rodents. In this study we sought to determine what information on reproductive condition could be gained from external examination of the reproductive anatomy of spinifex hopping mice (Notomys alexis) using individuals from a captive colony. Female N. alexis with perforate vaginae had a significantly larger mean uterine mass and larger mean maximum ovarian follicle diameter than non-perforate females. Corpora lutea were recorded in two perforate animals but were not present in females with a ‘pinhole’-size perforate or non-perforate vagina. In male hopping mice scrotal bulge size was unrelated to testes mass, ventral prostate mass or presence/absence of sperm in the cauda epididymides. Males with dark scrotal pigmentation had a significantly smaller mean testes mass than males with light or no pigmentation. However, there was no relationship between scrotal pigmentation and ventral prostate mass or sperm presence in the cauda epididymides. Our study suggests that vaginal perforation is an acceptable indicator of sexual maturity in female hopping mice, but scrotal bulge size and scrotal pigmentation should not be used to predict reproductive condition of males.
Uncovering the mechanism whereby dietary nicotinic acid increases the intramuscular fat content in finishing steers by RNA sequencing analysis
Authors: Yang Zhuqing , Zhao Xianghui , Xiong Xinwei , Bao Linbin , Pan Ke , Zhou Shan , Wen Luhua , Xu Lanjiao , Qu Mingren
Published: February 2019

In our previous study, we found that a higher dosage of nicotinic acid (NA) in the diet dramatically increases intramuscular fat (IMF) content and improves meat quality in finishing steers. We hypothesised that increased IMF results from the regulation of genes associated with adipogenesis. To address this hypothesis, RNA-seq was used to investigate gene-expression profiles of longissimus muscles from the same 16 cattle that were also used in our previous study and treated with or without dietary NA. Four cDNA libraries were constructed and sequenced. The repeatability and reproducibility of RNA-seq data were confirmed by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase-chain reaction. In total, 123 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between longissimus muscles treated and those not treated with dietary NA. Of the 123 DEGs, 117 genes were upregulated by the NA treatment. These DEGs were enriched in 21 pathways, including the extracellular matrix (ECM) –receptor interaction, PPAR signalling pathway, adipocytokine signalling pathway and transforming growth factor-β signalling pathway, all of which are associated with lipid metabolism. Furthermore, candidate genes related to adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis (PLIN1, PLIN2, ADPN, LEP, LCN2 and SOCS3), lipid metabolism (FABP4, RBP4, GAL, ANXA1, ANXA2 and PTX3) and fatty acid synthesis and esterification (ELOVL6, ACSM1, SOT1 and PTGIS) were upregulated in the NA group. Three genes involved in glucose metabolism (PGAM1, UGDH and GLUT3) were also transcriptionally upregulated. However, MYH4 that encodes glycolytic Type IIb muscle fibres was downregulated by dietary NA. These gene expression results indicated a confirmation of our hypothesis that dietary NA increases the IMF content of longissimus muscle through upregulating the expression of the genes related to adipocyte differentiation, adipogenesis and lipid and glucose metabolism.
Experimental evolutionary studies on the genetic autonomy of the cytoplasmic genome “plasmon” in the
Triticum
(wheat)–
Aegilops
complex
Authors: Tsunewaki Koichiro , Mori Naoki , Takumi Shigeo
Published: February 2019

Significance

In angiosperms, nuclear genes are inherited from both parents, following Mendelian laws, whereas genes in the two cytoplasmic organelles, the chloroplast and mitochondrion, are usually transmitted only through the female parent. In this study, we show experimentally that the cytoplasmic organellar genes of
Aegilops
remained autonomous from coexisting nuclear genes of wheat, in their replication and transmission, for more than half a century. We also infer that the cytoplasmic genome “plasmon” has retained genetic autonomy during 0.5 My of evolution of the
Triticum
–
Aegilops
complex, indicating its usefulness in tracing the maternal lineage of a species.
Physicochemical measurements of Japonica rice cultivars in Heilongjiang Province
Authors: Nakamura Sumiko , Li Hui , Dai Chang-Jun , Zhang Rui-Ying , Kawano Motonobu , Ohtsubo Ken’Ichi
Published: February 2019

We here characterized 27 japonica rice cultivars grown in Heilongjiang province and evaluated the relationship among their iodine absorption curve, physical properties, and ratio of 13 kDa prolamin. We developed the novel estimation formulae for ratio of 13 kDa prolamin and overall hardness (H2) with the use of Aλmax and λmax.
Atypical variants of posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo after canalith repositioning
Authors: Wagner Andrew R.
Published: February 2019

Background and purpose:

Unsuccessful repositioning of posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (PC-BPPV) can result in inadvertent aggregation of otoconia in atypical areas of the PC. A collection of otoconia within the non-ampullary segment of the PC can provoke a downbeating and torsional positional nystagmus creating diagnostic uncertainty. Further complicating the clinical picture, otoconia may concurrently become displaced in areas adjacent to the utricle, such as the utricular side of the PC ampulla. Current evidence regarding the treatment of atypical PC-BPPV is limited, and the ideal treatment method remains in question.

Case description:

This case report describes the management of an individual presenting with atypical downbeating and torsional positional nystagmus of PC origin. The simultaneous presence of reversed nystagmus when positioned in supine with the head flexed 30 degrees, further complicated the differential diagnosis.

Intervention:

This individual was treated with the demi-semont (DS) maneuver to treat suspected right-sided apogeotropic posterior canal BPPV (APC-BPPV) with concurrent utricular side cupulolithiasis of the posterior canal (UCPC-BPPV).

Outcome and discussion:

When reassessed the day after treatment the patient’s positional nystagmus and vertigo were resolved, indicating successful treatment of suspected APC-BPPV with concurrent UCPC-BPPV. The patient, in this case, responded to the DS maneuver, however, the current evidence regarding of semicircular canal fluid mechanics supports minimizing the inertial elements of canalith repositioning maneuvers, while extending the duration of the rest intervals during the repositioning maneuver. In patients that present with positional downbeating nystagmus, without signs of central pathology, we suggest considering APC-BPPV as a potential diagnosis. In addition, we suggest that excitation of the PC in the supine head flexed (SHF) position without similar findings in the DH position may represent aggregation of otoconia on the posterior side the cupula within the PC ampulla.
Stokes flow with kinematic and dynamic boundary conditions
Authors: Fabricius John
Published: February 2019

We review the first and second boundary value problems for the Stokes system posed in a bounded Lipschitz domain in

R

n

\mathbb {R}^n

. Particular attention is given to the mixed boundary condition: a Dirichlet condition is imposed for the velocity on one part of the boundary while a Neumann condition for the stress tensor is imposed on the remaining part. Some minor modifications to the standard theory are therefore required. The most noteworthy result is that both pressure and velocity are unique.
Wasserstein barycenters in the manifold of all positive definite matrices
Authors: Nobari Elham , Ahmadi Kakavandi Bijan
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we study the Wasserstein barycenter of finitely many Borel probability measures on

P

n

\mathbb {P}_{n}

, the Riemannian manifold of all

n
×
n

n\times n

real positive definite matrices as well as its associated dual problem, namely the optimal transport problem. Our results generalize some results of Agueh and Carlier on

R

n

\mathbb {R}^{n}

to

P

n

\mathbb {P}_{n}

. We show the existence of the optimal solutions and the Wasserstein barycenter measure. Furthermore, via a discretization approach and using the BFGS (Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno) method for nonsmooth convex optimization, we propose a numerical method for computing the potential functions of the optimal transport problem. Also, thanks to the so-called optimal transport Jacobian on Riemannian manifolds of Cordero-Erausquin, McCann, and Schmuckenschläger, we show that the density of the Wasserstein barycenter measure can be approximated numerically. The paper concludes with some numerical experiments.
Cancer-related proteins in serum are altered in workers occupationally exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alhamdow Ayman , Tinnerberg Håkan , Lindh Christian , Albin Maria , Broberg Karin
Published: February 2019

Exposure to some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) increases the risk of cancer and is common particularly for workers in occupations such as chimney sweeping. In exposed workers, screening of early cancer-related markers provides important information to identify individuals at risk. Here, we aimed to elucidate the associations between PAH exposure and serum levels of cancer-related proteins in 118 chimney sweeps and 126 occupationally unexposed controls, all non-smoking males from Sweden. Monoydroxylated metabolites of pyrene, phenanthrene, benzo[a]pyrene and benzo[a]anthracene were measured in urine using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry and 90 cancer-related proteins were measured in serum using a proximity extension assay. Linear regression analysis adjusted for age and body mass index, and false discovery rate (FDR) identified 17 serum proteins that were differentially expressed (16 upregulated and 1 downregulated) in chimney sweeps compared with controls (FDR < 0.05). Concentrations of the peptidase kallikrein 13 (KLK13) showed significant positive associations with urinary concentrations of the PAH metabolites 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (3-OH-BaP) [B, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.042, 0.008–0.076] and 3-hydroxybenzo[a]anthracene (3-OH-BaA) (B, 95% CI: 0.068, 0.002–0.134). Moreover, dose–response relationships were observed between KLK13 and 3-OH-BaP (trend test P = 0.027) and 3-OH-BaA (P = 0.035). Pathway and gene ontology analyses showed that cell movement, cell adhesion and cell migration were the predominant molecular functions associated with the top differentially expressed proteins. In conclusion, we found a number of putative cancer-related proteins differentially expressed in workers exposed to PAH. This warrants effective measure to reduce PAH exposure among workers as well as further investigation to confirm these findings.
A Neonicotinoid Affects the Mating Behavior of Spalangia endius (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a Biological Control Agent of Filth Flies
Authors: Kremer Aspen N , King Bethia H
Published: February 2019

Spalangia endius Walker is a parasitoid wasp that is commercially available as a biological control agent for filth fly pests in livestock-rearing operations. Imidacloprid is often used to control these flies. The present study examined the sublethal effect of field-realistic concentrations of imidacloprid on mating behavior, offspring sex ratios, and male preference for virgin females. After exposure to imidacloprid, S. endius females that survived were less likely to mate than control females, which will result in male-biased sex ratios because only mated females can produce daughters. Males did not avoid exposed females, but exposed females were almost always unreceptive. Males that survived exposure to imidacloprid exhibited reduced mating competitiveness against unexposed males. However, if an exposed male mated, his mate’s sex ratio and ability to control flies was unaffected. Exposed males were also still able to discriminate against mated, and thus usually unreceptive, females. Together with previous studies, these results suggest that not only does imidacloprid reduce the ability of S. endius females to survive and parasitize hosts, but when an exposed female does survive and parasitize hosts, she is likely to produce just sons, because of her lack of receptivity. More-male-biased populations of S. endius will decrease their efficacy for fly control. Thus, the use of imidacloprid along with this parasitoid may be financially inefficient for pest management.
Using graphic text-messaging to promote smoking cessation among first-generation Chinese and Korean male immigrants
Authors: Zhao Xiaoquan , Peterson Emily B , Oh Kyeung Mi , Cai Xiaomei
Published: February 2019

First-generation Chinese and Korean male immigrants in the United States are at high risk for tobacco use. This study pilot-tested a graphic, native-language text-messaging intervention to promote smoking cessation among these groups. First-generation Chinese and Korean male immigrant smokers (N = 71) were recruited from the Washington DC area. Participants were randomly assigned to one of four conditions based on a between-subjects 2 (graphic plus text or text-only messages) ï¿½ 2 (quitline information or quitting tips) design. The text-messaging intervention included 30 text messages in total and lasted one month. Participants completed an expired air carbon monoxide (CO) assessment and self-reported measures at both baseline and follow-up. Results show that, from baseline to follow-up, participants’ expired air CO levels decreased significantly (P = 0.001). Attitude toward quitting also became more positive (P = 0.028). Compared with text-only messages, graphic text messages produced greater positive changes in quitting attitudes (P = 0.039) and elicited greater fear response (P = 0.005). Compared with quitting tip messages, quitline information resulted in greater regret (P = 0.016) and fear (P = 0.051). These findings suggest that graphic text-messaging can be an effective method to promote smoking cessation among first-generation Chinese and Korean male immigrants.
A Comparison of sun, ovate, fs8.1 and Auxin Application on Tomato Fruit Shape and Gene Expression
Authors: Wang Yanping , Clevenger Josh P , Illa-Berenguer Eudald , Meulia Tea , van der Knaap Esther , Sun Liang
Published: February 2019

Elongated tomato fruit shape is the result of the action of the fruit shape genes possibly in coordination with the phytohormone auxin. To investigate the possible link between auxin and the fruit shape genes, a series of auxin (2,4-D) treatments were performed on the wild-type and the fruit shape near-isogenic lines (NILs) in Solanum pimpinellifolium accession LA1589 background. Morphological and histological analyses indicated that auxin application approximately 3 weeks before anthesis led to elongated pear-shaped ovaries and fruits, which was mainly attributed to the increase of ovary/fruit proximal end caused by the increase of both cell number and cell size. Fruit shape changes caused by SUN, OVATE and fs8.1 were primarily due to the alterations of cell number along different growth axes. Particularly, SUN caused elongation by extending cell number along the entire proximal-distal axis, whereas OVATE caused fruit elongation in the proximal area, which was most similar to the effect of auxin on ovary shape. Expression analysis of flower buds at different stages in fruit shape NILs indicated that SUN had a stronger impact on the transcriptome than OVATE and fs8.1. The sun NIL differentially expressed genes were enriched in several biological processes, such as lipid metabolism, ion transmembrane and actin cytoskeleton organization. Additionally, SUN also shifted the expression of the auxin-related genes, including those involved in auxin biosynthesis, homeostasis, signal transduction and polar transport, indicating that SUN may regulate ovary/fruit shape through modifying the expression of auxin-related genes very early during the formation of the ovary in the developing flower.
Widespread Pressure Pain Hypersensitivity, Health History, and Trigger Points in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Castaldo Matteo , Catena Antonella , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Arendt-Nielsen Lars
Published: February 2019

Background

Pain sensitivity in chronic neck pain patients may be influenced by health conditions related to higher levels of widespread pressure pain hypersensitivity (sensitization). Trigger points have also been reported to play a role in the sensitization process.

Objectives

To investigate the association between pressure pain thresholds, trigger points, and health conditions in patients with chronic neck pain.

Design

Original research, preliminary study.

Setting

A private clinic.

Subjects

Thirty-four chronic mechanical neck pain patients and 34 chronic whiplash-associated neck pain patients, giving a final sample of 68 chronic neck pain patients.

Methods

Patients underwent an assessment of pressure pain thresholds over the upper trapezius, extensor carpi radialis longus, and tibialis anterior muscles and were screened for the presence of trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. Further, information about health history conditions was obtained and collected in a form.

Results

Significantly negative correlations between all pressure pain thresholds and duration of health history conditions were found (all P < 0.02). Significantly lower pressure pain thresholds (all P < 0.01) were found in patients with active trigger points as compared with those with latent trigger points.

Conclusion

Widespread pressure pain hypersensitivity was associated with duration of health history conditions, suggesting that long-lasting health complaints may act as a triggering/perpetuating factor, driving sensitization in individuals with chronic neck pain. Active trigger points may be associated with higher widespread pressure hypersensitivity.
Effects of maternal dietary nitrate supplementation during the perinatal period on piglet survival, body weight, and litter uniformity
Authors: van den Bosch Moniek , Wijnen Jan , van de Linde Irene B , van Wesel Ad A M , Melchior Delphine , Kemp Bas , Clouard Caroline , van den Brand Henry
Published: February 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of different dosages of dietary nitrate supplementation to sows from d 108 of gestation until d 5 of lactation on reproductive performance of sows and piglet performance from birth until weaning. Dietary nitrate supplementation leads to nitric oxide (NO) formation that can potentially increase blood flow to the fetuses (by the vasodilative effect of NO), leading to a decrease in the loss of potential viable piglets in the form of stillbirth and preweaning mortality. Three hundred and five gilts and sows were allocated to one of six diets from d 108 of gestation until d 5 of lactation, containing 0.00% (Control), 0.03%, 0.06%, 0.09%, 0.12%, or 0.15% of dietary nitrate. The source of nitrate used was calcium nitrate double salt. Calcium levels were kept the same among diets by using limestone. Gilts and sows were weighed and backfat was measured at arrival to the farrowing room (d 108 of gestation) and at weaning (d 27 of age). Data included number of piglets born alive, born dead, and weaned, as well as individual piglet weights at d 0, 72 h of age and weaning. Preweaning mortality was determined throughout lactation. Body weight d 0 (P = 0.04) as well as BW at 72 h of age (P < 0.01) increased linearly with increasing dosages of nitrate in the maternal diet. Litter uniformity (SD) at birth was not affected by maternal nitrate supplementation level (P > 0.10), but tended to be higher at 72 h of age in the control treatment than in all nitrate-supplemented treatments (P = 0.07), and SD decreased linearly (increased uniformity) at weaning with increasing dosages of nitrate (P = 0.05). BW at weaning (P > 0.05) and average daily gain of piglets during lactation (P > 0.05) were not affected by maternal nitrate supplementation. A tendency for a quadratic effect (P = 0.10) of the dosage of maternal dietary nitrate was found on preweaning mortality of piglets with the lowest level of mortality found at 0.09% to 0.12% of maternal nitrate supplementation. We conclude that the use of nitrate in the maternal diet of sows during the perinatal period might stimulate preweaning piglet vitality. Exact mode of action and optimal dose of nitrate still need to be elucidated.
Integration of Contraceptive Services Into Anticoagulation Management Services Improves Access to Long-acting Reversible Contraception
Authors: Bernard Caitlin , Pekny Chelsea , Omukagah Christabell O. , Bernard Christian O. , Manji Imran , Pastakia Sonak D. , Christoffersen-Deb Astrid
Published: February 2019

(Abstracted from Contraception 2018;98(6):486–491)

Increasing access to contraception in women of reproductive age is a cost-effective strategy to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality, especially in women with chronic diseases. Approximately 28% of global maternal mortality is nonobstetric in nature, and 70% of these cases are due to preexisting medical conditions exacerbated by pregnancy.
Neonatal Outcomes of Elective Early-term Births After Demonstrated Fetal Lung Maturity
Authors: Tita Alan T. N. , Jablonski Kathleen A. , Bailit Jennifer L. , Grobman William A. , Wapner Ronald J. , Reddy Uma M. , Varner Michael W. , Thorp John M. , Leveno Kenneth J. , Caritis Steve N. , Iams Jay D. , Saade George , Sorokin Yoram , Rouse Dwight J. , Blackwell Sean C. , Tolosa Jorge E.
Published: February 2019

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018;219(3):296.e1–296.e8)

Studies of early-term birth after demonstrated fetal lung maturity show that respiratory and other outcomes are worse with early-term birth (37 0/7–38 6/7 weeks) even after demonstrated fetal lung maturity when compared with full-term birth (39 0/7–40 6/7 weeks). However, these studies included medically indicated births and are therefore potentially limited by confounding by the indication for delivery.
Pain Catastrophizing and Function In Individuals With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Authors: Martinez-Calderon Javier , Jensen Mark P. , Morales-Asencio Jose M. , Luque-Suarez Alejandro
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

Pain catastrophizing (PC) is the most consistent psychosocial factor predicting of adjustment to chronic pain and may contribute to the development and long-term maintenance of chronic pain. The aim of this review was systematically review and critically appraise the concurrent and longitudinal associations between PC and both pain intensity and disability in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP).

Materials and Methods:

An electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, AMED, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PubPsych databases, as well as gray literature, was undertaken from inception until September 2018. Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies reporting on the associations between measures of PC, pain intensity, and disability were selected for review.

Results:

A total of 85 observational studies (92% cross-sectional) were included, with a total sample of 13,628 participants with CMP. Very low-quality evidence (based on the GRADE criteria) indicated that higher levels of PC were often, but not always, significantly associated with and prospectively predicted both chronic pain intensity and disability. Heterogeneity was large after conducting multiple meta-analyses.

Discussion:

Despite the very low quality of the available evidence, the general consistency of the findings highlights the potential role that PC may play in delaying recovery from CMP. Research that uses higher quality study designs and procedures would allow for more definitive conclusions regarding the impact of PC on pain and function.
Patient Perceptions of Iliac Crest Bone Grafting in Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Haws Brittany E. , Khechen Benjamin , Patel Dil V. , Cardinal Kaitlyn L. , Guntin Jordan A. , Singh Kern
Published: February 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine patients’ perception of iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) harvesting and donor site pain following minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF).

Summary of Background Data:

The incidence of donor site pain has been debated in the literature because of the varying techniques associated with its harvest.

Methods:

Patients undergoing primary, single-level MIS TLIF with ICBG were retrospectively identified. ICBG harvesting was performed using a percutaneous technique with a tubular retractor. A survey was administered to assess if patients could accurately describe which side of their iliac crest they believed was harvested, and if they were experiencing any pain perceived to be originating from the donor site. Patient characteristics were compared using χ2 analysis and independent t test.

Results:

In total, 82 patients were included. The majority of patients had the ICBG harvested from the left iliac crest (97.5%). Approximately half of the patients correctly identified the side of harvest (50.6%). 48.1% of patients reported they were not confident or had guessed on their response. Patients that reported pain from the ICBG were more likely to feel confident or somewhat confident in their harvest site identification (57.9% vs. 46.3%) but less likely to be correct (36.8% vs. 63.4%) than patients without pain. 22 patients (27.8%) correctly identified the side of harvest without guessing. Of these, 11 (13.9%) reported pain.

Conclusions:

Approximately half of patients undergoing MIS TLIF with ICBG are able to correctly identify which side of their iliac crest was harvested. However, the majority of patients reporting pain were unable to correctly identify the side of harvest. This suggests that most patients are likely attributing other sources of pain to their ICBG. Therefore, rates of donor site pain may be over-reported in the current literature with contemporary harvesting techniques.
Correlation of Lower Instrumented Vertebra With Spinal Mobility and Health-related Quality of Life After Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Uehara Masashi , Takahashi Jun , Ikegami Shota , Kuraishi Shugo , Futatsugi Toshimasa , Oba Hiroki , Takizawa Takashi , Munakata Ryo , Koseki Michihiko , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: February 2019

Study Design:

This is a retrospective single-center and single-surgeon study.

Objective:

We investigated the correlation between lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) and spinal mobility 2 years after posterior spinal fusion with pedicle screws for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) for optimal LIV selection.

Summary of Background:

Spinal motion can become limited in scoliosis patients who undergo posterior spinal fusion. However, few reports exist on spinal mobility after posterior spinal fusion for AIS and the relationship between the LIV and mobility is unknown. We hypothesize that mobility limitation increases as the LIV is moved inferiorly.

Data:

Of 72 consecutive patients who received posterior spinal fusion using pedicle screws for AIS between October 2009 and August 2015, 66 patients (5 male and 61 female, mean age: 14.9 y) were enrolled.

Materials and Methods:

In total, 66 patients were retrospectively reviewed after stratification according to LIV level. Follow-up rate was 91.7%. Patients were examined for the fingertip-to-floor distance (FFD) before and 2 years after surgery. FFD was measured from the tips of the middle fingers to the floor with the barefoot subject bent maximally forward and the feet together and knees straight. Clinical outcome was assessed using Scoliosis Research Society-22 patient questionnaire (SRS-22r) scores and a visual analog scale for low back pain before and at 2 years postoperatively.

Results:

The median number of fused vertebrae was 9 (range: 4–15). The LIV was T11–12 in 15 patients, L1 in 11 patients, L2 in 10 patients, and L3 in 30 patients. The median decrease in FFD according to LIV at 2 years after surgery was T11–12: 0 cm, L1: 0 cm, L2: 5.5 cm, and L3: 10 cm. Thus, limited FFD became significantly more severe as the LIV was moved downwards (P<0.01). There were no significant correlations between limited FFD and SRS-22r or pain visual analog scale scores at 2 years postoperatively.

Conclusions:

FFD became significantly more restricted as the LIV was moved inferiorly but clinical results appeared unaffected by limited FFD.
Replacement or repair of terrible triad of the elbow
Authors: Chen Hongwei , Shao Yinchu , Li Shaobo
Published: February 2019

Background:

Surgical treatment for terrible triad injuries remains a challenging clinical problem, and controversy exists of whether it is better to repair or replace the radial head. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of repair and arthroplasty replacement of the radial head in patients with terrible triad injury.

Methods:

Medline, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Google Scholar were searched up to July 30, 2018 to identify the relevant studies, which included patients who had received treatments of the terrible triad of the elbow and also had reported with the quantitative outcomes. Outcomes of interest were functional outcomes.

Results:

Four studies with a total of 115 patients were included in the systematic review. Most patients were type II or III radial head fractures based on the Mason classification systems. Fifty-one patients received radial head repair surgery and 64 underwent replacement. Two studies had indicated that patients in the replacement group were significantly associated with better treatment outcome assessed by DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) and MEPS (Mayo Elbow Performance Score) scores. The meta-analysis indicated that patients with the arthroplasty replacement were associated with significantly better ROM outcomes in flexion, extension, pronation than those with radial head repaired. In addition, patients in the replacement group showed fewer post-surgery complications than those in the repair group.

Conclusions:

Our review had indicated that patients with terrible triad injuries undergo arthroplasty replacement have better clinical outcomes and fewer post-surgery complications than those received the repair surgery. Radial head replacement might be a more effective treatment approach with good clinical outcomes for patients with a terrible triad of the elbow.
Correlation between high-frequency ultrasonography of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis and anti-CCP antibody
Authors: Yang Jie , Shao Qinghe , Wu Jieyan
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

To study the correlation between high-frequency ultrasonography of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody.

Methods:

Two wrists, 1st to 5th metacarpal phalangeal (MCP) and 1st to 5th proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints of 53 early RA patients treated from October 2015 to October 2017 and 30 healthy subjects were examined by high-frequency ultrasonography. The thicknesses of synovial membrane, sheaths of 1st to 5th extensor tendons, flexor tendons and ulnar wrist extensor tendons were measured. Related pathological changes were observed.

Results:

RA and control groups had significantly different thicknesses of synovium, extensor and flexor tendon sheaths (P <.001). In RA group, 14.15% of joints had cavity fluid, 5.23% had cartilage destruction, and 2.32% of bone cortices had tendon sheath effusion. The detection rates of tendon sheath effusion and tendon adhesion were 19.81% and 16.30% respectively. Anti-CCP antibody positive group had significantly different DAS28, Health Assessment Questionnaire score and rheumatoid factor positive rate from those of negative group (P <.05). Synovitis, cartilage destruction, bone erosion, tendon sheath effusion, and joint effusion were significantly positively correlated with these values (P <.05). Besides, 8.92% of joints had blood flow signals of thickening synovium, of which joints with signals in the active phase accounted for 4.37%. The resistance index (RI) of synovial artery was (0.58 ± 0.07). However, 0.94% of joints had synovial blood flow signals in the inactive phase, and RI of synovial artery was (0.67 ± 0.03). Anti-CCP antibody positive group was significantly more prone to bone erosion than negative group (P <.05).

Conclusions:

For patients with early RA, high-frequency ultrasonography was more likely to detect articular cartilage destruction and bone erosion changes when anti-CCP antibody was positive. Combining anti-CCP antibody with ultrasonography can provide valuable evidence for the development of clinical treatment regimens.