bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunophenotypic profile and clinical outcome of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis in kidney transplantation
Authors: Alfano Gaetano , Fontana Francesco , Colaci Elisabetta , Franceschini Erica , Ligabue Giulia , Messerotti Andrea , Bettelli Francesca , Grottola Antonella , Gennari William , Potenza Leonardo , Guaraldi Giovanni , Mussini Cristina , Luppi Mario , Cappelli Gianni
Published: August 2018

Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL) is a lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by clonal expansion of a B‐cell population in peripheral blood of otherwise healthy subjects. MBL is divided into CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia)‐like, atypical CLL‐like and non‐CLL MBL. The aim of this study was to evaluate immunophenotypic characteristics and clinical outcomes of MBL in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. We retrospectively evaluated 593 kidney transplant (KT) recipients in follow‐up at our center. Among them, 157 patients underwent peripheral blood flow cytometry for different clinical indications. A 6‐color panel flow cytometry was used to diagnose MBL. This condition was detected in 5 of 157 KT recipients. Immunophenotypic characterization of MBL showed four cases of non‐CLL MBL and one case of CLL‐like MBL. At presentation, median age was 65 years (range 61‐73). After a median follow‐up of 3.1 years (95%CI; 1.1‐5) from diagnosis, patients did not progress either to CLL or to lymphoma. The disorder did not increase the risk of malignancy, severe infections, graft loss and mortality among our KT recipients. Surprisingly, all cases were also affected by concomitant monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, which did not progress to multiple myeloma during follow‐up. In conclusion, our data suggest that MBL is an age‐related disorder, with non‐CLL MBL being the most common subtype among KT recipients.
Intragraft vasculitis and gene expression analysis: Association with acute rejection and prediction of mortality in long‐term heart transplantation
Authors: Lin‐Wang Hui Tzu , Cipullo Reginaldo , Dias França João Italo , Finger Marco Aurelio , Rossi Neto Joao Manoel , Correia Edileide de Barros , Dinkhuysen Jarbas Jackson , Hirata Mário Hiroyuki
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Vasculitis entails heterogeneous origins; it starts with an inflammatory process that leads to small vessels’ necrosis, hemorrhage, and ischemic lesion, and may further result in occlusion of the vascular lumen. Vasculitis’ contribution to allograft rejection is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the incidence of vasculitis in the early stages of heart transplantation as well as to assess the intragraft genes’ expression associated with vascular function and subsequently to verify the way in which it affects the outcome of the allograft.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 300 archive paraffin‐embedded endomyocardial biopsies from 63 heart allograft recipients were assessed. Cellular rejection and vasculitis were diagnosed through histological analysis, and antibody‐mediated rejection was performed with immunohistochemical C4d staining. The transcripts of ICAM, VCAM, VEGF, CCL2, IFNG, TGFB, TNF, ADIPOR1, and ADIPOR2 genes were examined through quantitative polymerase chain reaction using B2M for normalization.

Results

We observed a higher prevalence of severe vasculitis in the early period of post‐transplant, and recovery was observed to take place around 1 year post‐transplant. Additionally, vasculitis was found to be directly associated with acute cellular rejection and antibody‐mediated rejection. The intense C4d capillary positivity predicts higher long‐term cardiovascular disease mortality. In comparison with the vasculitis‐free group, the group with severe vasculitis displayed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and an upregulation of VCAM and IFNG associated with the downregulation of VEGF, ADIPOR1, and ADIPOR2.

Conclusion

The vasculitis associated with the presence of C4d and the change in intragraft gene expression profile may contribute to poor allograft outcomes.
Clinical and histological spectrum of nail psoriasis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kaul Subuhi , Singal Archana , Grover Chander , Sharma Sonal
Published: August 2018

Background

Nail psoriasis can pose diagnostic difficulties as there are several close clinical mimickers, including onychomycosis, lichen planus, and even squamous cell carcinoma. In view of differing treatment and prognostic implications, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis, especially in cases with isolated nail involvement.

Methods

Sixty consecutive patients with nail changes suggestive of psoriasis were included. A nail punch biopsy was performed and histopathological features were recorded for each case and percentage positivity of each individual feature was calculated. Periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) stain was performed to detect any fungal colonization or invasion.

Results

The most common clinical nail change was distal onycholysis (93.3% patients), followed by subungual hyperkeratosis (80%). On histological examination, the feature found most frequently was hyperkeratosis with parakeratosis (78% of biopsies), followed by neutrophilic infiltration of nail bed epithelium (63%), and hypergranulosis (58%). Unlike psoriasis elsewhere, nail bed and matrix histopathology revealed hypergranulosis in more than half of the cases. PAS stain was positive for fungal elements in 16 of 60 (26%) cases.

Conclusion

This study provides a careful, detailed histopathological description of nail unit psoriasis in a large number of cases. The histopathologic features described, which are somewhat different from psoriasis elsewhere on the body, are of utility to pathologists who may receive nail biopsy specimens of hyperkeratotic lesions.
Percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy using SpyGlassDS for an anastomotic stenosis after choledochojejunostomy
Authors: Fujii Yuki , Koshita Shinsuke , Ito Kei
Published: August 2018

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Large biliary stone: Lessons from a difficult case
Authors: Franzini Tomazo Antônio Prince , Visconti Thiago Arantes de Carvalho , de Moura Eduardo Guimarães Hourneaux
Published: August 2018

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Bringing rights into resilience: revealing complexities of climate risks and social conflict
Authors: Ensor Jonathan , Forrester John , Matin Nilufar
Published: August 2018

Marginalisation and exclusion are expressed in social conflict and are determinative in distributing risk and resilience. This paper builds on recent literature that has adopted a human rights lens to explore how resilience practice can better account for issues of equity and power. Using the illustrative case of Timor‐Leste, it presents an analysis of how human rights principles play out in the settings in which rights are given meaning. The approach reveals the reproduction of patterns of conflict and risk, and suggests two key priorities for resilience practice: first, recognising and responding to the deep‐rooted narratives and procedures that normalise inequality and marginalisation at different scales; and second, allowing for transformation towards more equitable political and social arrangements as a part of resilience practice. Augmenting resilience with rights‐based thinking can situate resilience practice, such that it responds to the complexity of social arrangements, reducing risk and social conflict.
Predictors affecting outcome after single‐event multilevel surgery in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review
Authors: Edwards Tomos A , Theologis Tim , Wright James
Published: August 2018

Aim

To review the potential predictors of outcome after single‐event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

A literature search using the following criteria was performed in six electronic databases: (1) children with cerebral palsy; (2) analysed potential predictors of outcome after SEMLS; (3) minimum 12 months follow‐up. The potential predictors were predefined: sex; topographical distribution; socio‐economic status; Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level; preoperative kinematic summary statistic; age at surgery. Study quality was appraised with the methodological index for non‐randomized studies (MINORS) and the Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine scale.

Results

Of the seven studies identified, the MINORS scores ranged from 9 to 11 and all were graded 2b on the Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine scale. There was little or no evidence to support sex, topographical distribution, or socio‐economic status as predictive factors after SEMLS. Preoperative Gait Profile Score (GPS) was the best measure of expected improvement in gait kinematics. Parent‐reported satisfaction and GPS were best after SEMLS in children graded GMFCS II. The best long‐term results were seen in those aged between 10 years and 12 years of age.

Interpretation

The candidate who might expect to realize the most improvement from SEMLS is aged between 10 years and 12 years, is in GMFCS level II, and has a poor preoperative GPS.

What this paper adds

Children aged 10 to 12 years, in Gross Motor Function Classification System level II, with a poor preoperative Gait Profile Score might expect to realize the most improvement after single‐event multilevel surgery.
Recurrent pregnancy loss and neurological deficits in offspring: confirmation should precede modifications in patient counselling
Authors: Barkin Jennifer L
Published: August 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Paz Levy et al. on pages 91–97 of this issue
Increases in circulating levels of ketone bodies and cardiovascular protection with SGLT2 inhibitors: Is low‐grade inflammation the neglected component?
Authors: Prattichizzo Francesco , De Nigris Valeria , Micheloni Stefano , La Sala Lucia , Ceriello Antonio
Published: August 2018

Recent clinical trials have demonstrated a strong cardiovascular (CV) protective effect of sodium/glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitors, a recently introduced class of hypoglycaemic agents. The improvement in glycated haemoglobin and other conventional risk factors explains only a portion of the observed reduction in CV risk. A relevant feature of SGLT2‐inhibitor‐treated diabetic patients is the increase in circulating levels of ketone bodies, which has been proposed to mediate part of the beneficial effects of this class of drugs, mainly through their bioenergetic properties. However, ketone bodies are emerging as potent anti‐inflammatory molecules, and inflammation is a recognized risk factor for the development of CV events. In this framework, we hypothesize that, through their unique mechanism of action and by increasing circulating ketone bodies, SGLT2 inhibitors indirectly target the IL‐1β pathway and thus produce a consistent amelioration of low‐grade inflammation, a clinically relevant phenomenon in diabetic patients with high CV risk. This attenuation could slow the progression of CV disease and especially the atherosclerotic process, which is sensitive to environmental changes, even over a short time period. To test this conceptual structure, it would be necessary to measure circulating pro‐inflammatory molecules in patients treated with SGLT inhibitors. The addition of inflammatory markers to the list of clinical data measured in FDA‐requested, large CV outcome trials could provide supplementary information regarding potential secondary effects of new anti‐hyperglycaemic drugs, considering that the inflammatory process is an often neglected cornerstone of CV diseases.
Persistent elevations in circulating INS DNA among subjects with longstanding type 1 diabetes
Authors: Neyman Anna , Nelson Jennifer , Tersey Sarah A. , Mirmira Raghavendra G. , Evans‐Molina Carmella , Sims Emily K.
Published: August 2018

Aim

To evaluate whether β cells continue to undergo death in the later stages of type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Materials and Methods

Fasting banked sera from a cross‐section of 90 participants in the T1D Exchange Registry with longstanding T1D (median duration of 9 years) were analysed. Subjects were determined to be C‐peptide (−) or (+) based on mixed‐meal tolerance testing. Results were compared with 54 adult non‐diabetic controls. Stimulated samples were assayed in a subset of subjects. Levels of unmethylated and methylated preproinsulin (INS) DNA were analysed using digital droplet PCR.

Results

Fasting and stimulated circulating unmethylated INS DNA levels were increased among both C‐peptide (−) and C‐peptide (+) subjects with longstanding T1D compared with non‐diabetic controls (P < 0.01). Consistent with prior reports, unmethylated INS DNA values correlated with methylated INS DNA values, which were also elevated among T1D subjects (P < 0.001). There was wide variation in the effects of mixed‐meal stimulation on DNA levels, with fasting values in the highest quartiles decreasing with stimulation (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These results could reflect ongoing β cell death in individuals with longstanding T1D, even in the absence of detectable C‐peptide production, suggesting that therapies targeting β cell survival could be beneficial among individuals with longstanding T1D.
Predictors of myocardial functional recovery following successful reperfusion of acute ST elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Shehata Islam ElSayed , Cheng Cheng‐I , Sung Pei‐Hsun , Ammar Ahmed S. , El‐Sherbiny Islam Abd El‐Moneem , Ghanem Islam Ghanem Ahmed
Published: August 2018

Background

Following acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), restoration of large‐vessel patency does not mean complete perfusion recovery. Little is known regarding the predictors of successful myocardial reperfusion for the STEMI patients undergoing pharmacologic and mechanical reperfusion strategies.

Aim of the Work

The aim of this clinical study was to find out the predictors of myocardial functional recovery following reperfusion of acute STEMI, represented by 3‐month global longitudinal strain (GLS) value assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography.

Material/Methods

The study population included 400 patients presented with first acute STEMI with successful reperfusion by thrombolysis (group I) or primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) (group II). Electrocardiography (ECG) at baseline and 90 minutes after coronary reperfusion was performed with assessment of ST resolution. Basal and 3‐month follow‐up echocardiography was performed with assessment of ejection fraction (EF), myocardial performance index (MPI), systolic myocardial excursion (S′), and GLS.

Results

There was nonsignificant difference between patients of both groups regarding age (P = 0.422) and gender (P = 0.272). Also, there was a nonsignificant difference between both groups regarding the risk factors of coronary artery disease like hypertension (P = 0.511), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.332), and smoking (P = 0.381). But there was significant statistical difference between both groups regarding dyslipidemia (P = 0.012). Ninety‐minute ST resolution was significantly higher in PPCI group (P = 0.042). Moreover, PPCI group had significant improvement of EF (P = 0.013) during follow‐up, and highly significant improvement of MPI, S′ and GLS (P ˂ 0.001) compared to the basal echocardiographic study. The percentage of change (∆) of each of the echocardiographic parameter was compared between both groups and revealed statistically significant improvement regarding EF, highly significant improvement of MPI, S′ and GLS in favor of PPCI arm (group II). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that pain to reperfusion time, MI territory, ST resolution, and basal GLS value are the most important predictors for LV functional recovery.

Conclusion

The study found pain to reperfusion time, MI territory, ST resolution, basal GLS value are the most important predictors of myocardial functional recovery. Regular follow‐up with echocardiography for STEMI patients with different reperfusion strategies has informative impact on long‐term clinical outcome. Also the study confirmed that PPCI is better than thrombolysis not only in restoring epicardial coronary flow but also in restoring microvascular and tissue perfusion assuring better myocardial functional recovery and better long‐term clinical outcomes.
Effect of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on left atrial function
Authors: Truong Vien T. , Chung Eugene , Nagueh Sherif , Kereiakes Dean , Schaaf Jennifer , Volz Brian , Ngo Tam N. M. , Mazur Wojciech
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To investigate the effect of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on left atrial volumetric function and left atrial volume for the prediction of adverse outcomes.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of 121 patients in sinus rhythm who underwent TAVR for severe AS. Maximum LA volume index (LAVI max), minimum LA volume index (LAVI min), and “pre‐A” volume index (LAVIpre‐A, the volume before atrial contraction) were measured by biplane Simpson's method at baseline, 1 month, and 1 year. The reservoir function, conduit function, booster pump function were calculated. All patients were followed for new‐onset of atrial fibrillation, hospitalization and all‐cause mortality.

Results

The reservoir function, conduit function and booster function before TAVR were 46%, 21%, 32%, respectively. LA volumetric function assessment demonstrated that reservoir function, conduit function increased over the time (all P < 0.01). There was no difference in booster function after TAVR (P = 0.18). Baseline markedly enlarged LA was significantly increased for AF (HR: 4.72; 95% CI, 1.11‐20.13, P = 0.04). In addition, There was a progressive decrease in LAVI max (P = 0.02) and RVSP (P = 0.03) over the time in non‐AF group but not in AF group (P = 0.62 and P = 0.65, respectively). Although, the proportion of high left ventricular filling pressure decreased in both groups but a marked decrease was noted in non AF group in compared with AF group.

Conclusion

Reservoir function, conduit function increased over time. Lack of negative LA remodeling post TAVR was associated with higher incidence of AF.
Semi‐automated estimation of left ventricular ejection fraction by two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional echocardiography is feasible, time‐efficient, and reproducible
Authors: Myhr Katrine A. , Pedersen Frederik H. G. , Kristensen Charlotte B. , Visby Lasse , Hassager Christian , Mogelvang Rasmus
Published: August 2018

Purpose

To compare two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) methods to estimate left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) with respect to feasibility, time consumption, and retest reproducibility.

Methods

A total of 100 patients planned to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting and/or aortic valve replacement were included consecutively. 2D and 3D echocardiography was performed on all patients. Acquisition and analysis time as well as intra‐ and inter‐examiner variability were assessed in 50 consecutive patients with 3 repeated echocardiographic examinations and analyses. LVEF was estimated by five different methods: uniplane, biplane, and single‐beat triplane (SB3P), as well as semi‐automated biplane (AutoEF) and 3D volumetric tracings (4D Auto LVQ). All methods were compared to Simpson's biplane method and feasibility was determined.

Results

Feasibility of Simpson's uniplane method, Simpson's biplane method, AutoEF, SB3P, and 4D Auto LVQ was 97%, 92%, 86%, 70%, and 89%, respectively. All methods evaluated were 18%–33% faster (P < 0.001) than Simpson's biplane method (115 seconds, standard deviation 15 seconds). Compared to Simpson's biplane method mean LVEF was slightly underestimated by 4D Auto LVQ (−2 ± 8%, P = 0.02), but not significantly different when assessed by the other methods. AutoEF and 4D Auto LVQ showed the lowest test variability (intra‐examiner coefficient of variation (CV) 10%–11%; inter‐examiner CV 10%–12% vs intra‐examiner CV 12%–18%; inter‐examiner CV 12%–20%).

Conclusions

Estimation of LVEF by modern semi‐automated 2D and 3D echocardiographic modalities is feasible, time‐efficient, and reproducible.
Mitral valve navigator. A new diagnostic tool for effective regurgitant orifice quantification in mitral regurgitation
Authors: Gonzalez Navarrete Sandra L. , de Agustín Loeches José Alberto , Pozo Osinalde Eduardo , de Jesús Keyla , Madrigal Adahir , López Silvana L. , Ortiz Eduardo , Saltijeral Adriana , Enriquez‐Rodriguez Eduardo , Gómez de Diego José J. , Mahía Patricia , Marcos Alberca Pedro , García Fernández Miguel A. , Macaya Carlos , Pérez de Isla Leopoldo
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Mitral regurgitation severity assessment is usually carried out using qualitative, semiquantitative, and quantitative parameters. The mitral valve navigation (MVN) tool allows to measure the mitral effective regurgitant orifice (MERO) from 3D echo datasets. Our aim was to validate the MVN as a new tool to quantify MERO. A secondary aim was to assess the intra‐ and interobserver variability.

Methods

This is a retrospective study in which consecutive subjects undergoing a transoesophageal echocardiogram for more than mild mitral regurgitation evaluation were included. MERO measurement obtained by means of 3D color Doppler was used as the gold standard method for comparison. In every patient, MERO was also obtained using the MVN tool.

Results

Fifty‐nine consecutive patients were analyzed (47.5% female; mean age 50.8 years). Mitral regurgitation was moderate in 23 (39%) and severe in 36 (61%) patients. Forty patients (67.8%) had a primary and 19 (32.2%) a secondary mitral regurgitation. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between 3D color Doppler and MVN was excellent (ICC: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.82 to 0.98; P < 0.001) in the total group and for patients with primary and secondary mitral regurgitation. Intra‐ and interobserver agreements were also good.

Conclusions

Mitral valve navigator shows an excellent accuracy for measuring MERO when the transoesophageal 3D color Doppler is used as the reference method, either primary or secondary mitral regurgitation. Intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reproducibility are also excellent. These findings make this software a good alternative method to measure mitral regurgitation severity.
Pulmonary hypertension due to a stiff left atrium: Speckle tracking equivalents of large V‐waves
Authors: Caravita Sergio , Mariani Davide , Blengino Simonetta , Branzi Giovanna , Crotti Lia , Parati Gianfranco
Published: August 2018

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a widely heterogeneous clinical condition. Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is the leading etiology of HFpEF, but there might be patients presenting with a predominant disease of the left atrium (LA). We report a case of HFpEF secondary to a stiff LA, in which we corroborated invasive hemodynamic assessment with LA strain analysis. Pathognomonic, tall V‐waves were observed in the wedge position in the absence of mitral regurgitation and with a near‐normal QRS‐gated, pre‐V‐wave pressure, indicating that left ventricular diastolic dysfunction was not a major issue in this case. These hemodynamic findings were mirrored by very low LA strain values, compatible with a stiff and noncompliant chamber.
Financial Markets, Industry Dynamics and Growth
Authors: Iacopetta Maurizio , Minetti Raoul , Peretto Pietro F
Published: August 2018

This article introduces corporate governance frictions into a growth model with endogenous market structure. Managers engage in corporate resource diversion and empire building. Shareholders discipline managers with incentive compensation contracts. A reform that mitigates corporate governance frictions boosts firms’ entry and, for a given market structure, has an ambiguous impact on incumbents’ return to product improvement. However, as the market structure adjusts, becoming more diffuse, incumbents invest less in product improvement. Calibrating the model to U.S. data, we find that a reform of the kind recently enacted in several advanced economies can lead to a welfare loss.
Optimal panel unit root testing with covariates
Authors: Juodis Artūras , Westerlund Joakim
Published: August 2018

This paper provides asymptotic optimality results for panel unit root tests with covariates by deriving the Gaussian power envelope. The main conclusion is that the use of covariates holds considerable promise in the panel data context, much more so than in the time series context. In fact, the use of the covariates not only leads to increased power, but can actually have an order effect on the shrinking neighbourhoods around unity for which power is non-negligible.
Unions and the Great Compression of wage inequality in the US at mid‐century: evidence from local labour markets
Authors: Collins William J. , Niemesh Gregory T.
Published: August 2018

This article tests whether places with higher exposure to unionization during the 1940s, due to their pre‐existing industrial composition, tended to have larger declines in wage inequality, conditional on local economic and demographic observables and regional trends. We find a strong negative correlation between exposure to unionization and changes in local inequality from 1940–50 and 1940–60. This does not appear to be underpinned by skill‐specific sorting of workers or by firms leaving places with high exposure to unionization. We also find that the correlation between exposure to unionization in the 1940s and the change in inequality after 1940 persists in long‐difference regressions to the end of the twentieth century.
Randomized exploratory study to measure ion release from calcium sodium phosphosilicate‐containing dentifrice
Authors: Burnett Gary R. , Morrison Joanna , Whitworth Darren , Hughes Alison J. , Nehme Marc , Sanyal Susmita , Brotherhood Andrew J. , Hall Peter J.
Published: August 2018

This exploratory study investigated salivary concentrations of silicon, calcium, sodium, and phosphorous over a 60‐min time period following the use of a calcium sodium phosphosilicate (CSPS)‐containing dentifrice. Participants brushed with a dentifrice containing 5% (w/w) or 0% (w/w) CSPS or swilled with a slurry containing 5% (w/w) CSPS/glycerol. Saliva samples were collected before, and 2, 5, 15, and 60 min after, product use and were analysed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Intra‐oral pH measurements were also taken. Primary analysis was of centrifuged saliva supernatant containing only dissolved material. At most time points, the CSPS‐containing dentifrice and slurry generated significantly more salivary silicon than the dentifrice containing 0% CSPS. At 2–15 min after brushing there was significantly more salivary calcium after use of the CSPS‐containing dentifrice and slurry, compared with the 0% CSPS dentifrice; a significant reduction, from baseline, in salivary calcium after use of dentifrice containing 0% CSPS; and an increase in salivary sodium after use of dentifrices containing either 5% or 0% CSPS, but no differences between them. Salivary phosphorous concentration decreased significantly with all treatments 2–5 min after use. There were no significant between‐treatment differences in intra‐oral pH. Products were generally well tolerated. This study establishes that it is possible to measure changes in salivary ionic composition derived through oral retention of CSPS, delivered via a dentifrice.
Egg ejection cost can limit defence strategies against brood parasitism
Authors: Biagolini‐Jr Carlos , dos Santos Paulo Victor Resende
Published: August 2018

A cost associated with the evolution of antiparasite strategies is the failure to recognize parasitic eggs, leading the host to evict its own eggs. However, there is evidence that birds recognize their own eggs through imprinting. This leads to the question of why birds accept parasitic eggs if such eggs can be identified. Here, we tested whether egg ejection per se can be costly due to increased predation risk to the remaining clutch and whether olfactory or visual cues of egg ejection increase predation. We carried out three field experiments to answer the following questions: (a) Does ejecting an egg increase nest predation risk? (b) Does the presence of olfactory cues, such as the smell of a broken egg, increase nest predation risk? And (c) Does the presence of visual cues, such as an egg shell below the nest, increase nest predation risk? We found evidence that egg ejection increases nest predation and that olfactory cues alone also increase nest predation. The presence of visual cues did not change predation rates. These data indicate that egg ejection is costly for both host and parasitic eggs that may remain in the nest. Our results suggest why host and parasite eggs are commonly found within the same nests, despite the possibility that hosts recognize and could possibly eject the parasite’s egg.
The effect of a compression bandage on the distribution of radiodense contrast medium after palmar digital nerve blocks
Authors: Gylling S. M. K. , Frandsen S. S. , Østergaard S. , Thomsen M. H. , Christophersen M. T. , Krüger T. , Jacobsen S.
Published: August 2018

Background

Studies have shown proximal diffusion of injected drugs in perineural blocks; such diffusion may affect specificity of the nerve block.

Objectives

To investigate the effect of a compression bandage applied to the pastern region on proximal diffusion of contrast medium injected over the palmar digital nerves.

Study design

Experimental study, randomised cross‐over design.

Methods

Radiodense contrast medium was injected over the lateral and medial palmar digital nerves of the left front limb of nine mature horses. Each horse was injected on two separate occasions, once with a 5 cm wide compression bandage applied proximal to the injection site and once without. The order of the two treatments was randomised with a wash‐out period between treatments of at least 7 days. Radiographs were obtained at 5, 10, 20 and 30 min and distribution of the contrast column assessed.

Results

Proximal distribution of the contrast medium was significantly reduced (P<0.01) with compression bandage. Furthermore, the compression bandage inhibited lymphatic drainage of the injected contrast medium.

Main limitations

Clinical effect of the differences in diffusion length was not assessed.

Conclusions

The compression bandage reduced proximal diffusion and lymphatic drainage of contrast material causing it to stay localised around the injection site. Use of compression bandages could thus result in increased specificity of the nerve block and potentially prolong its effect.
Variability in plasma concentrations of methylprednisolone 6 days after intrasynovial injection of methylprednisolone acetate in racing horses: A field study
Authors: Machin J. , Duer W. , Maylin G. , Fenger C. , Wilson D. , Ivey M. , Berthold B. , Allison S. , Tobin T.
Published: August 2018

Background

Methylprednisolone (MP) acetate is a commonly used corticosteroid for suppression of inflammation in synovial structures in horses. Its use is often regulated in equine sports by plasma MP concentrations.

Objectives

To describe variability in MP plasma concentrations after MP acetate injection in different synovial structures and with co‐administration with hyaluronic acid (HA).

Study design

Field study in actively racing horses in three disciplines (Thoroughbred, Standardbred and Quarter Horse).

Methods

Seventy‐six horses (15 Thoroughbreds, 20 Standardbreds and 41 Quarter Horses) were included in the study. Injection of any synovial structure with a total body dose of 100 mg MP acetate was permitted, data were grouped according to the synovial structure injected and co‐administration with HA. Plasma was collected before injection and at 6 days post‐injection. Per cent censored data (below the limit of quantification) for each synovial structure were determined, and summary statistics generated by Robust Regression on Order. Differences between synovial structures and co‐administration with HA were identified by ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc testing.

Results

The MP plasma concentration at 6 days for injection for the entire group (mean ± standard deviation [s.d.], pg/mL) was 96 ± 104. Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) plasma concentrations contained 86% censored data and could not be included in the statistical analysis. The carpal joints (CJO) group had a lower plasma MP concentration (P<0.05) than the distal tarsal joints (DTJ) or medial femorotibial (MFT), the no HA (NHA) group had a lower plasma MP concentration (P<0.05) than HA.

Main limitations

The synovial structures injected varied by racing discipline, so this study was unable to identify any differences between disciplines.

Conclusions

Practitioners should be aware that injection of DTJ, CS and MFT joints, and combining MP acetate with HA may prolong its clearance, and withdrawal times for competition in regulated equine sports.
Limitations of a chromogenic agar plate for the identifying bacteria isolated from equine endometritis samples
Authors: Vera L. , Boyen F. , de Visscher A. , Vandenbroucke V. , Vanantwerpen G. , Govaere J.
Published: August 2018

Background

The use of commercial chromogenic agar plates for the rapid, easy and correct identification of equine endometritis‐causing bacteria has been proposed. Preliminary tests in our lab revealed undescribed limitations. Therefore, we tested the ability of the Brilliance UTI agar, a commercially available chromogenic agar, to accurately identify bacteria causing equine endometritis.

Objectives

To 1) investigate whether bacteria present in the equine uterus are able to grow on this chromogenic agar plate, 2) determine whether these bacteria belong to the genera for which these agar plates were originally designed and 3) consider whether these bacterial genera can be correctly identified, based only on the colour appearance.

Study design

In vitro experiments.

Methods

Macroscopic growth and colour appearance on the Brilliance UTI agar of 58 bacterial isolates, from previously collected equine uterine samples, were evaluated. Isolates were tentatively identified at the genus level using the manufacturer's guidelines and results were compared with MALDI‐TOF MS as a “gold standard”.

Results

The study revealed that 1) 77% (N = 45/58) of the bacterial isolates grew well on this chromogenic agar, 2) 83% of the investigated isolates (N = 48/58) belonged to one of the genera for which guidelines for identification were provided by the manufacturer and 3) only 50% of the isolates (N = 29/58) were correctly identified at the genus level, based only on colour appearance.

Main limitations

The current study uses purified bacterial isolates to inoculate the chromogenic agar plates, instead of fresh uterine samples. Bacteria were identified to the genus level using MALDI‐TOF MS.

Conclusion

This study shows that identification at the genus level based only on colour appearance, without additional tests or the simultaneous use of other media, is not reliable based on the existing identification guidelines.
Midtreatment Problems Implementing Evidence‐based Interventions in Community Settings
Authors: Cunningham Phillippe B. , Foster Sharon L. , Kawahara Debra M. , Robbins Michael S. , Bryan Sophie , Burleson Ginger , Day Caela , Yu Sisi , Smith Kaila
Published: August 2018

Multisystemic Therapy® (MST) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT) are two widely disseminated evidence‐based family‐based treatments for substance abusing and delinquent adolescents. This mixed‐method study examined common implementation problems in midtreatment in MST and FFT. A convenience sample of experienced therapists (20 MST, 20 FFT) and supervisors (10 MST, 10 FFT) from dissemination sites across the United States participated in semistructured telephone interviews. Participants identified retrospectively serious midtreatment process problems they perceived as threats to treatment success. Coders extracted descriptions of problems from interview transcripts and coded them into 12 categories that fell into five major themes: engaging families in treatment; difficulties implementing strategies; family relational and communication problems; complications external to therapy; and youth problem behavior. Analyses examined caregiver, therapist, and youth variables as predictors of these common midtreatment problems and whether treatment outcomes varied depending on the type of problem, therapy model, and race/ethnic match of therapist and family. MST and FFT therapists and supervisors identified many similar problems. There were, however, model‐specific differences consistent with differing features of the models (e.g., FFT participants identified more family relational problems and fewer follow‐through problems than their MST counterparts). Results underscore the need to consider both common and specific factors in treatment process.
Interfilament interaction between IMPDH and CTPS cytoophidia
Authors: Chang Chia‐Chun , Keppeke Gerson D. , Sung Li‐Ying , Liu Ji‐Long
Published: August 2018

Inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) and cytidine triphosphate synthase (CTPS) are two metabolic enzymes that perform rate‐limiting steps in the de novo synthesis of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides, respectively. It has been shown that IMPDH and CTPS can comprise a filamentous macrostructure termed the cytoophidium, which may play a role in regulation of their catalytic activity. Although these two proteins may colocalise in the same cytoophidium, how they associate with one another is still elusive. As reported herein, we established a model HeLa cell line coexpressing OFP‐tagged IMPDH2 and GFP‐tagged CTPS1 and recorded the assembly, disassembly and movement of the cytoophidium in live cells. Moreover, by using super‐resolution confocal imaging, we demonstrate how IMPDH‐ and CTPS‐based filaments are aligned or intertwined in the mixed cytoophidium. Collectively, our findings provide a panorama of cytoophidium dynamics and suggest that IMPDH and CTPS cytoophidia may coordinate by interfilament interaction.
Experimental and numerical analyses of mean stress relaxation in cold expanded plate of Al‐alloy 2024‐T3 in double shear lap joints
Authors: Abdollahi Elyas , Chakherlou Tajbakhsh Navid
Published: August 2018

In this paper, the mean stress relaxation behavior of simple Al‐alloy 2024‐T3 specimens and also the mean stress relaxation around the hole of cold expanded specimen are studied. The analyses are performed through the combination of the nonlinear isotropic hardening and Chaboche nonlinear kinematic hardening model accompanied by the results of experimental tests. The strain‐controlled axial tests are performed at two different strain amplitudes, while the stress‐controlled tests of cold expanded specimens are performed for three different imposed load amplitudes. The constitutive equations of the hardening model are coded as a UMAT subroutine in FORTRAN programming language and implemented in the commercial finite element code of ABAQUS. The accuracy of the hardening model has been proved in two steps: first by simulations of mean stress relaxation during the uniaxial strain‐controlled cyclic tests and second by simulation of strain ratcheting during the stress‐controlled cyclic loading. The stress and strain distributions after cold expansion process are examined as well as the mean stress relaxation due to cyclic loading. The results show the influences of imposed stress amplitude on increasing mean stress relaxation and also the effect of cold expansion level on reducing the mean stress relaxation.
Fatigue crack propagation characteristics of high‐tensile steel wires for bridge cables
Authors: Zheng X.L. , Xie X. , Li X.Z. , Tang Z.Z.
Published: August 2018

The viability of single edge cracked sheet test method for rapidly determining the crack propagation characteristics of steel wires was investigated. First, fatigue tests under 3 different stress ratios were conducted on the sheet specimens which were manufactured from a kind of widely used cable wires. The test data were analysed, and the crack growth rates of sheet specimens were constructed by Walker model. Then, a series of fatigue tests were performed on notched round‐bar specimens to verify the predictability of Walker model parameters. Moreover, the experimental results obtained in different studies on crack propagation characteristics of steel wires were discussed. The results show that the crack propagation characteristics of sheet specimens behave a certain dependence on depth. The sheet crack growth laws can be well used to predict the fatigue life of notched bar specimens when the mechanical heterogeneity is considered. For bridge cable steels, the rational values for the exponent parameter of Paris law, m, should be close to 3.
Closing the global ozone yield gap: Quantification and cobenefits for multistress tolerance
Authors: Mills Gina , Sharps Katrina , Simpson David , Pleijel Håkan , Frei Michael , Burkey Kent , Emberson Lisa , Uddling Johan , Broberg Malin , Feng Zhaozhong , Kobayashi Kazuhiko , Agrawal Madhoolika
Published: August 2018

Increasing both crop productivity and the tolerance of crops to abiotic and biotic stresses is a major challenge for global food security in our rapidly changing climate. For the first time, we show how the spatial variation and severity of tropospheric ozone effects on yield compare with effects of other stresses on a global scale, and discuss mitigating actions against the negative effects of ozone. We show that the sensitivity to ozone declines in the order soybean > wheat > maize > rice, with genotypic variation in response being most pronounced for soybean and rice. Based on stomatal uptake, we estimate that ozone (mean of 2010–2012) reduces global yield annually by 12.4%, 7.1%, 4.4% and 6.1% for soybean, wheat, rice and maize, respectively (the “ozone yield gaps”), adding up to 227 Tg of lost yield. Our modelling shows that the highest ozone‐induced production losses for soybean are in North and South America whilst for wheat they are in India and China, for rice in parts of India, Bangladesh, China and Indonesia, and for maize in China and the United States. Crucially, we also show that the same areas are often also at risk of high losses from pests and diseases, heat stress and to a lesser extent aridity and nutrient stress. In a solution‐focussed analysis of these results, we provide a crop ideotype with tolerance of multiple stresses (including ozone) and describe how ozone effects could be included in crop breeding programmes. We also discuss altered crop management approaches that could be applied to reduce ozone impacts in the shorter term. Given the severity of ozone effects on staple food crops in areas of the world that are also challenged by other stresses, we recommend increased attention to the benefits that could be gained from addressing the ozone yield gap.
Warming and land use change concurrently erode ecosystem services in Tibet
Authors: Hopping Kelly A. , Knapp Alan K. , Dorji Tsechoe , Klein Julia A.
Published: August 2018

Alpine meadows on the Tibetan Plateau comprise the largest alpine ecosystem in the world and provide critical ecosystem services, including forage production and carbon sequestration, on which people depend from local to global scales. However, the provision of these services may be threatened by climate warming combined with land use policies that are altering if and how pastoralists can continue to graze livestock, the dominant livelihood practice in this region for millennia. We synthesized findings from a climate warming and yak grazing experiment with landscape‐level observations in central Tibet to gain insight into the trajectories of change that Tibet's alpine meadows will undergo in response to expected changes in climate and land use. We show that within 5 years, experimental warming drove an alpine community with intact, sedge‐dominated turfs into a degraded state. With removal of livestock, consistent with policy intended to reverse degradation, a longer‐term shift to a more shrub‐dominated community will likely occur. Neither degraded nor shrub meadows produce forage or sequester carbon to the same degree as intact meadows, indicating that climate warming and drying will reduce the ability of Tibet’s alpine meadows to provide key ecosystem services, and that livestock reduction policies intended to counteract trajectories of land degradation instead endanger contemporary livelihoods on the Tibetan Plateau.
Combining choice modeling estimates and stochastic simulations to assess the potential of new crops—The case of lignocellulosic perennials in Southwestern Germany
Authors: Gillich Caroline , Narjes Manuel , Krimly Tatjana , Lippert Christian
Published: August 2018

In the future, the lignocellulosic perennial crops short rotation coppice (SRC) and miscanthus are supposed to provide renewable raw materials for a bio‐based economy. To assess the potential regional supply of these crops, which are not yet widespread in Baden–Wuerttemberg (Southwest Germany), we used a two‐step approach. In a first step, we conducted a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) in regions of Baden–Wuerttemberg that—given their site conditions—are suitable for SRC or miscanthus. The respondents were characterized by significant preference heterogeneity for both (negatively valued) perennial crops and for all presented choice attributes. Thus, it was appropriate to estimate a random parameter logit model (RPL). The attributes average yearly contribution margin, long‐term purchase guarantee and cultivation by colleagues in the neighborhood had a significantly positive effect on the likelihood of cultivation, whereas the attributes contribution margin variability and initial investment need showed a significantly negative effect. In a second step, assuming realistic values for the levels of the attributes considered in the DCE, in stochastic simulations, we randomly draw part‐worth utilities from the multivariate normal distribution of these parameters according to the RPL results. This way, for alternative biomass prices, we derived shares of farmers’ willing to engage in perennial crop production and produced related regional supply functions. Under moderate yield and realistic input and farmland opportunity cost assumptions, the full regional miscanthus potential can only be achieved when farmers are offered either subsidies or price‐risk‐reducing long‐term contracts. Based on empirically determined heterogeneous farmer preferences, our two‐step approach is suitable to yield realistic estimations of any not yet implemented farming practices. We finally note caveats related to our analysis and discuss some policy implications of the major findings.
Co‐producing research in the “Red Zone”: Adaptation to fieldwork constraints with a transdisciplinary approach
Authors: Laborde Sarah , Phang Sui Chian , Ahmadou Mouadjamou , Henry Nathaniel , Fernández Alfonso , Durand Michael , Hamilton Ian M. , Kari Saïdou , Mahamat Aboukar , Mark Bryan , Scholte Paul , Shastry Apoorva , Ziebe Roland , Moritz Mark
Published: August 2018

Fieldwork rarely goes to plan. In geography, anthropology, earth sciences and other research activities that rely on field data, trade‐offs are required between planning and execution. This article addresses the adaptation of research projects to changing fieldwork conditions. It is based on a case study of interdisciplinary and international “Coupled Human and Natural Systems” research situated in the Far North of Cameroon. The research project underwent drastic changes because of escalating insecurity in the field site, caused by Boko Haram, a terrorist group active in north‐east Nigeria and neighbouring regions. We use network analysis to show that our research team became larger, more connected and less clustered to accommodate for the changes in fieldwork accessibility. This process of adaptation led our research team towards tighter interdisciplinary collaboration, the co‐production of research between academic scientists with little or no local field experience and non‐academic practitioners with field knowledge, and a better dissemination of research outcomes through stronger partnerships with local organisations – overall, an increasingly transdisciplinary research pathway. Based on this case study, we discuss features of adaptive research projects facing high‐uncertainty field conditions, which is an increasingly relevant issue for many researchers, for example those working in parts of the Sahel or Middle East.