bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes in unilateral primary aldosteronism after surgical or medical therapy
Authors: Puar Troy H. , Loh Lih M. , Loh Wann J. , Lim Dawn S. T. , Zhang Meifen , Tan Pei T. , Lee Lynette , Swee Du S. , Khoo Joan , Tay Donovan , Tan Sarah Y. , Zhu Ling , Gani Linsey , King Thomas F. , Kek Peng C. , Foo Roger S.
Published: October 2020

Context

Studies find surgery superior to medications in the treatment of primary aldosteronism (PA). It would be ideal to compare surgical and medical therapy in patients with unilateral PA only, who have the option between these treatment modalities. However, this is challenging as most patients with unilateral PA on adrenal vein sampling (AVS) undergo surgery.

Objective

To compare outcomes of surgery and medications in patients with confirmed or likely unilateral PA.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of 274 patients with PA managed at two referral centres from 2000 to 2019.

Patients

154 patients identified with unilateral PA using AVS and a validated clinical prediction model were treated with surgical (n = 86) or medical (n = 68) therapy.

Measurements

Primary outcome was a composite incident cardiovascular event comprising acute myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, stroke, atrial fibrillation or congestive cardiac failure. Secondary outcomes were clinical and biochemical control.

Results

Cardiovascular outcomes were comparable, with the surgery group having an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.32–2.67), p = .89. Both treatments improved clinical and biochemical control, but surgery resulted in better systolic blood pressure, 133.0 ± 11.7 mmHg versus 137.9 ± 14.6 mmHg, p = .02, and lower defined daily dosages of antihypertensive medications, 1.0 (IQR 0.0–2.0) versus 2.6 (IQR 0.8–4.3), p < .001. In addition, 12 of 86 patients in the surgery group failed medical therapy before opting for surgery.

Conclusion

In patients with unilateral PA who can tolerate medications, medical therapy improves clinical and biochemical control, and may offer similar cardiovascular protection. However, surgery reduces pill burden, may cure hypertension and is recommended for unilateral PA.
Effect of sibship asthma on newborns with transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN)
Authors: Gundogdu Zuhal
Published: October 2020

Background

A number of studies have demonstrated that transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a risk factor for later asthma. The present study attempts to determine whether older sibling asthma is a risk factor for TTN.

Methods

Medical records of 1318 newborns from neonatal intensive care and delivery units were studied. None of the subjects were first‐born, and thus, all had older siblings. Clinical data of mothers and their children were obtained from medical records. Data items included date of birth, gestational age (GA) at birth, birth weight, gender, mode of delivery including Normal Spontaneous Delivery or caesarean section (CS) and whether pre‐labour CS or not, reasons for CS, number of pregnancies, number of children, asthma of mothers and siblings, whether the newborn had TTN or not. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between siblings’ asthma and TTN.

Results

Pre‐labour CS, maternal asthma, GA, babies with large and small birth weight for GA, number of pregnancies and children (three and more) were found to be significantly associated with TTN. Siblings’ asthma was found to be independently associated with a diagnosis of TTN.

Conclusions

Both pre‐labour CS and mothers with asthma were common risk factors for the development of TTN. An association was present between TTN and siblings’ asthma even in infants whose mothers did not have asthma.
Progress or regression? Institutional evolutions of community‐based conservation in eastern and southern Africa
Authors: Nelson Fred , Muyamwa‐Mupeta Patricia , Muyengwa Shylock , Sulle Emmanuel , Kaelo Dickson
Published: October 2020

Eastern and southern Africa has been a key laboratory for community‐based approaches to conservation for over three decades. During the 1990s, field‐level initiatives and national policy reforms across the region put it at the forefront of global experiments with community‐based conservation. Community‐based conservation, in theory and practice, is closely tied to institutional reforms that devolve rights over wildlife and natural resources to local communities. As such, these efforts have frequently encountered political‐economic and institutional barriers that limited their impact. This contributed to a rising sense of rollback and recentralization of community conservation approaches during the 2000s. Since then, community‐based conservation has expanded its scope considerably in some countries, notably Kenya and Namibia, primarily as a result of relatively supportive legal and policy provisions coupled with sustained government, civil society, and private sector support. At a wider scale, sufficient devolution of rights over wildlife and natural resources has been a chronic constraint, but community‐based initiatives have still managed to persist, adapt, and deliver some evidence of positive ecological and social impacts in Zambia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Three key overarching trends across the region are (a) the significant growth and expansion of community‐based conservation where key institutional enabling conditions exist; (b) pervasive institutional limitations on community rights over wildlife and other valuable natural resources, which continue to constrain and undermine community‐based approaches; and (c) local entrepreneurship and resilience that continues to create new opportunities for community‐based approaches, even under adverse conditions.
Estimated HbA1c and glucose management indicator (GMI): are they the same?
Authors: Leelarathna L. , Thabit H. , Hovorka R. , Evans M.
Published: October 2020

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Network intervention analysis to assess the trajectory of change and treatment effects associated with the use of online guided self‐help for anorexia nervosa
Authors: Monteleone Alessio Maria , Cardi Valentina , Ambwani Suman , Cascino Giammarco , Albano Gaia , Pellegrino Francesca , Treasure Janet
Published: October 2020

Aim

The aim of this study was to use the innovative technique of Network Intervention Analysis (NIA) to examine the trajectory of symptom change associated with the use of a digital guided self‐help intervention (RecoveryMANTRA) to augment treatment as usual in adult anorexia nervosa.

Methods

Self‐reported eating disorder symptoms and mood (stress, anxiety and depression), work and social adjustment, motivation and treatment (Treatment as usual + RecoveryMANTRAand Treatment as usual) were included as nodes in the network and examined using NIA. Networks were computed at baseline (n = 88, 99), at end of treatment (6 weeks, n = 71, 75) and at 6‐ (n = 58, 63) and 12‐month (n = 52, 63) follow‐up.

Results

RecoveryMANTRA was associated with a direct effect on anxiety, shape concern and restraint at the end of the intervention. This effect was not maintained at follow‐up. There were no direct effects of RecoveryMANTRA on motivation, stress and depression.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that RecoveryMANTRA exerts a direct effect on eating disorder symptoms and anxiety. NIA is a promising method to evaluate trajectories of clinical change and direct and indirect effects of a therapeutic intervention compared to a control condition.
The dental healthcare professionals’ competence in mentoring students in the clinical practice
Authors: Keinänen Anna‐Leena , Mikkonen Kristina , Lähdesmäki Raija , Kääriäinen Maria
Published: October 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate dentists’, dental hygienists’ and dental assistants’ competence in mentoring students and to identify distinct mentor profiles.

Methods

The study employed a cross‐sectional design. Data were collected using the Mentors’ Competence Instrument (MCI), which includes 45 items structured under seven mentoring competence sub‐dimensions. The data were collected during autumn 2017 from dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants working in the Finnish primary healthcare (n = 1097) using a paper survey, whilst dentists (n = 26) who have completed mentoring education in one university completed an electronic questionnaire. Cases with more than 5% missing data (n = 164) were listwise deleted, whilst the remaining data (n = 933) underwent analysis. K‐mean clustering was used to identify significantly different mentor profiles, whilst comparisons of mentoring competence between the identified profiles were performed with Kruskal‐Wallis and Mann‐Whitney tests.

Results

Three distinct mentor profiles (A, B and C) that differed in the level of mentoring competence were identified. The participants in profile A encompassed mostly dental assistants, profile B included mostly dental assistants and dentists, and profile C mainly comprised dentists and dental assistants. Profiles A, B and C differed significantly in terms of education, job title, role of mentor and participation in mentoring education. The largest difference in competence was observed between participants of profiles A and C. Each profile differed significantly from the other two across all seven competence areas. Most of the participants had not previously received any mentoring education.

Conclusion

There is room for improvement in the competence of dentistry student mentors, especially regarding knowledge of effective mentoring practices, goal‐oriented mentoring, mentor characteristics and motivation for mentoring. Every mentor that works with oral healthcare students should receive mentoring training.
Inefficient resource allocation is associated with reduced alpha activity in parietal regions in individuals with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Weber Jan , Abeln Vera , Steichele Kathrin , Foitschik Tina , Stuckenschneider Tim
Published: October 2020

The brain's ability to act as an input filter and to suppress actions is crucial to navigate everyday life and impairments in these abilities affect quality of life substantially. Although Parkinson's disease (PD) is primarily known as a movement disorder, recent research has redefined it as a multisystem disorder affecting cognition, in particular inhibitory control and attentional resource allocation. Analysing the neural mechanisms underlying this cognitive deficit provides a better understanding of brain changes observed in patients affected by PD. Therefore, this study aimed to identify resource allocation to relevant and irrelevant stimuli in patients affected by PD. Besides neuropsychological tests, we employed electroencephalographic recordings during an auditory oddball paradigm in 13 patients suffering from idiopathic PD and 11 healthy controls (HC). Participants were instructed to ignore the standard stimulus and to respond as fast as possible to the rarely presented target tone. Event‐related potentials (ERP) and time‐frequency representations (TFR) were analyzed. Patients affected by PD showed faster response latencies to the task‐irrelevant standard tones, but slower response latencies to target tones compared to HC. This observation was prominent at frontal sites during later P3‐like processing stages. Reaction time, however, was prolonged in patients with PD, suggesting inefficient resource allocation. Additionally, TFR revealed reduced parietal alpha activity, which is associated with distractor suppression and functional inhibition in patients with PD compared to healthy controls. Thus, our results point towards inefficient resource allocation in patients with PD possibly driven by less functional inhibition through parietal alpha activity.
Selection against immigrants in wild seabird populations
Authors: Barbraud Christophe , Delord Karine
Published: October 2020

Immigration is a major demographic parameter shaping population dynamics and is an important driver of eco‐evolutionary patterns, but the fitness consequences for individuals following their settlement to a new population (immigrants) remain poorly tested in wild animal populations, particularly among long‐lived species. Here we show that immigrants have a lower fitness than residents in three wild seabird populations (wandering albatross Diomedea exulans, southern fulmar Fulmarus glacialoides, snow petrel Pagodroma nivea). Across all species and during a 32‐year period, immigrants made on average −9 to 29% fewer breeding attempts, had 5–31% fewer fledglings, had 2–16% lower breeding success and produced 6–46% fewer recruits. Female immigration and male residency were also favored through differences in breeding performance. We provide evidence for selection against immigrants in wild populations of long‐lived species and our results are consistent with female‐biased dispersal in birds being driven by asymmetric limiting resources and the competitive ability of dispersers vs. non‐dispersers.
The Swedish Brief Coparenting Relationship Scale: Psychometrics and Concurrent Validity Among Primiparous and Multiparous Fathers
Authors: Lee Jin‐kyung , Feinberg Mark E. , Wells Michael B.
Published: October 2020

Objective

This study aims to test the reliability and validity of the Swedish translation of the Brief Coparenting Relationship Scale (B‐CRS) among Swedish fathers.

Background

The transition to parenthood is a challenging period for many parents, but high‐quality coparenting can promote parental mental health, self‐efficacy, positive parenting skills, and children's healthy development. However, no study has validated a measure of coparenting for Swedish parents. In addition, it is unknown whether primiparous and multiparous fathers' coparenting differs.

Method

For this pilot study, 170 fathers of infants participated in an online survey and completed a follow‐up survey 6 months later.

Results

t‐Tests comparing primiparous and multiparous fathers showed no significant differences, and, therefore, these participants were grouped together for subsequent analyses. This reinforces that the coparenting relationship, is consistent and thus reflects its importance for couples to develop high‐quality coparenting with their first child. Consistent with previous research from other countries, this study demonstrates good internal consistency with the B‐CRS. Six subscales were highly correlated with the overall B‐CRS score: Coparenting Agreement, Endorsement of Partner's Parenting, Coparenting Closeness, Coparenting Support, Coparenting Undermining, and Exposure to Conflict. Better coparenting quality, as measured by the B‐CRS, was linked to lower levels of depressive symptoms and higher levels of father–infant bonding.

Conclusions

These results support the use of the B‐CRS in Sweden as a reliable and valid measure of coparenting.

Implications

Coparenting should be given greater consideration in future studies of new parent experiences and adjustment in Sweden.
Long‐term biochar application promotes rice productivity by regulating root dynamic development and reducing nitrogen leaching
Authors: Liu Bitao , Li Hongliang , Li Hongbo , Zhang Aiping , Rengel Zed
Published: October 2020

Biochar is beneficial for improving soil quality and crop productivity. However, the long‐term effects of biochar addition on temporal dynamics of plant shoot and root growth, and the changes in soil properties and nitrogen (N) leaching are still obscure. Here, based on a long‐term (7 years) biochar field experiment with rice in northwest China, we investigated the effects of two biochar rates (0 and 9 t ha−1 year−1) and two N fertilizer rates (0 and 300 kg N ha−1 year−1) on shoot and root growth, root morphology, N leaching, and soil physicochemical properties. The results showed that both biochar and N fertilizer significantly promoted rice growth, with their interaction significant only in some cases. Both fertilizers enhanced rice shoot biomass and N accumulation in various growth stages as well as increased grain yield. Nitrogen fertilizer significantly promoted root growth regardless of biochar application. However, biochar application without N fertilizer increased root biomass and length during the whole growth period, except in the booting stage; biochar with N application promoted root growth at tillering, reduced root biomass but maintained root length with low root diameter and high specific root length during the jointing and booting stages, and then delayed root senescence in the grain filling stage. Long‐term applications of biochar and N fertilizer reduced 10%–12% bulk density of topsoil compared to the control treatment with no N fertilizer and no biochar. Long‐term biochar application also improved soil total organic carbon and concentrations of available N, phosphorus, and potassium. In addition, biochar and N fertilizer applied together significantly reduced nitrate and ammonium concentration in leachate at different soil depths. In conclusion, biochar could regulate root growth, root morphology, soil properties, and N leaching to increase rice N fertilizer‐use efficiency.
Demographics, Headache Features, and Comorbidity Profiles in Relation to Headache Frequency in People With Migraine: Results of the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention (AMPP) Study
Authors: Buse Dawn C. , Reed Michael L. , Fanning Kristina M. , Bostic Ryan C. , Lipton Richard B.
Published: October 2020

Background

Migraine is typically divided into 2 headache frequency denominated categories, episodic migraine (EM) and chronic migraine (CM). Characterizing more narrow headache day frequency groups may be of value for better understanding the broad range of migraine experience and making treatment decisions.

Objective

To characterize the impact and burden of migraine in 4 monthly headache day (MHD) categories.

Methods

Respondents to the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study 2005 survey who met criteria for migraine were categorized into low frequency episodic migraine (LFEM) 0‐3, moderate frequency episodic migraine (MFEM) 4‐7, high frequency episodic migraine (HFEM) 8‐14, and CM with ≥15 headache days per month. Data including sociodemographics, headache features and symptomology, comorbidities, cutaneous allodynia, and severe migraine‐related disability were compared among groups. We combined the low‐ and medium‐frequency EM groups (L/MFEM) and compared them with the HFEM group in 1 set of models and compared the HFEM and CM groups in a second set of models. Binary logistic regression, linear regression, and ordered logistic regression were used depending upon the variable type and adjusted for sociodemographics.

Results

Among 11,603 eligible respondents with migraine, 67.7% (7860/11,603) were categorized with LFEM, 17.7% (2051/11,603) with MFEM, 7.8% (898/11,603) with HFEM, and 6.8% (794/11,603) with CM. The mean age was 46 (SD 13.7), 80.2% (9301/11,603) were female, and 90.0% (10,187/11,323) were White, 6.9% were Black (784/11,323), and 3.1% (352/11,323) were identified as Other race(s). Individuals with HFEM differed from L/MFEM on a wide range of sociodemographic variables in the categories of headache features, disability, and comorbidities while few differences were found when modeling HFEM vs CM. In comparison with L/MFEM and HFEM, the HFEM group was more likely to have severe disability (P < .001 OR = 1.74 [1.42, 2.15]), chronic pain (P ≤ .007 OR = 1.35 [1.09, 1.69]), arthritis (P = .001 OR = 1.44 [1.15, 1.80]), high cholesterol (P = .005, OR = 1.37 [1.10, 1.70]), ulcers (P = .016, OR = 1.44 [1.07, 1.93]), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ‐9]) (P < .001 OR = 1.50 [1.22, 1.84]).

Conclusion

While rates of migraine symptoms, headache impact and disability, and comorbidities generally increased with increases in MHD frequency, respondents with HFEM and CM were remarkably similar on a broad range of variables including sociodemographics, disability/impact, and comorbidities. There were many more significant differences between the HFEM and L/MFEM groups on the same variables. Future work should use empirical strategies to identify naturally occurring groups and possibly reconsider the boundary between CM and HFEM.
The development of higher education in Japan and the United Kingdom: The impact of neoliberalism
Authors: Brazzill Marc
Published: October 2020

There is a growing consensus in political science research that higher education systems are classifiable into stable distinct types that reflect dominant trends in government partisanship. There is also a large body of higher education research that argues that higher education systems are changing and converging upon a neoliberal type, which is not yet reflected in the political science literature. This paper seeks to reconcile these two positions by looking at both the development of higher education systems in the post‐war period and subsequent systemic reforms that have been identified as neoliberal. There have been two main targets of reform: (a) the role the state plays in funding and targeting research, and (b) student finance regimes consisting of tuition fees and the system of financial aid. This paper provides an in‐depth look at the cases of Japan and the United Kingdom, which developed into very different systems in the post‐war period but have since shown slight convergence on the back of neoliberal reforms.
Habitat selection of foraging male Great Snipes on floodplain meadows: importance of proximity to the lek, vegetation cover and bare ground
Authors: Korniluk Michał , Białomyzy Paweł , Grygoruk Grzegorz , Kozub Łukasz , Sielezniew Marcin , Świętochowski Piotr , Tumiel Tomasz , Wereszczuk Marcin , Chylarecki Przemysław
Published: October 2020

Drainage of wetlands and agricultural intensification has resulted in serious biodiversity loss in Europe, not least in grasslands. Consequently, many meadow birds have drastically declined, and the habitats they select for breeding currently rely on land management. However, the selection of habitats maintained by agriculture may contribute to reduced fitness and thus remain maladaptive for individuals, which makes conservation challenging. An understanding of the relationships between species’ habitat selection, food supply and land management in the context of species’ behaviour is therefore crucial for conservation. Lowland populations of Great SnipeGallinago mediaare currently declining at a moderate rate, causing a conservation concern. We examined the daytime site selection (assumed as foraging sites) and food supply of radiotracked Great Snipe males breeding on a floodplain in NE Poland. Foraging sites were classified at micro‐ and macro‐scale levels using the logistic regression in a use–availability design. On the micro‐scale level, males selected moderate sward height and density, and a large amount of bare ground patches, and the importance of these increased as the breeding season progressed. On the macro‐scale level, these conditions were associated with (1) meadows mown twice per season and grazed thereafter (associated with the most abundant food resources – earthworms) and (2) extensively managed pastures, suggesting the importance of grazing. Abandoned or late‐mown meadows under agri‐environmental schemes (AES) were avoided by foraging males. However, parcels with delayed mowing offer safe breeding sites for females nesting close to leks, unlike land‐use types preferred by foraging males, which may act as an ecological trap. Effective conservation of Great Snipes on floodplain meadows requires precisely targeted AES schemes that will provide a mosaic of intensive and extensive land‐use patches in the vicinity of identified leks.
Incorporating sugarcane bagasse ash into Al2O3 ceramic tapes
Authors: Silva Larissa B. , Alves Hugo P. A. , Freitas Anna K. C. , Marques Sheyla K. J. , Acchar Wilson
Published: October 2020

High‐temperature co‐fired ceramic (HTCC) technology aims to incorporate fluxing materials into ceramic tapes to decrease the sintering temperature. In this context, we incorporate waste from sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) into alumina (Al2O3) tapes. We report an experimental investigation of the structural, physical, mechanical, and dielectric properties of the Al2O3 tape with the addition of the SCBA waste. The tape casting technique prepared the ceramic tape. The materials under study were characterized by rheology, thermogravimetry, dilatometry, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, relative density, Vickers microhardness, mechanical resistance, and dielectric measurements. The dilatometry results confirm that the addition of the SCBA waste remarkably reduces the sintering temperature of the Al2O3 tape to 1200°C. The physical, mechanical, and dielectric properties are improved with the addition of the SCBA waste, which makes our discoveries attractive from an environmental and economic point of view. Besides, the stabilization and high dielectric constant of the Al2O3‐SCBA tape becomes a promising material for aircraft turbine applications.
Falsely decreased FVIII activity following pneumatic tube transport
Authors: Wang Hong , Wang Lin , Liang Hanyu , Wei Jia , Wu Yining , Wang Xueying , Xu Jian
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The pneumatic tube system (PTS) is widely used for sample delivery. We aimed to investigate the impacts of PTS on hemostasis assays.

Methods

Triplicate samples from 30 healthy volunteers were delivered to the core laboratory manually by human courier or via the 500 m long‐distance PTS or via the 1000 m long‐distance PTS. Comparisons of 19 hemostasis tests were conducted.

Results

Although PT, INR, APTT, FII, FV, FVII FIX, FX, FXII, DD, α2‐PI, and PC had statistical significance (all P < .05), all had low average bias remaining within clinical acceptable limits. PTS transportation only resulted in a statistically significant and clinically relevant decrease in FVIII activity. In the 500 m‐PTS group, 66.7% (20/30) of samples for FVIII testing had a bias greater than 8.3%. Moreover, in the 1000 m‐PTS group, 96.7% (29/30) of samples had a bias of over 8.3%, and the maximal bias achieved 42.1%.

Conclusions

Pneumatic tube system in our institution could be used to deliver blood samples for hemostasis tests evaluated in this study except FVIII activity assay.
Weight‐based teasing in youth: Associations with metabolic and inflammatory markers
Authors: Schvey Natasha A. , Shank Lisa M. , Tanofsky‐Kraff Marian , Ramirez Sophie , Altman Deborah R. , Swanson Taylor , Rubin Alex G. , Kelly Nichole R. , LeMay‐Russell Sarah , Byrne Meghan E. , Parker Megan N. , Broadney Miranda M. , Brady Sheila M. , Yanovski Susan Z. , Yanovski Jack A.
Published: October 2020

Background

Research among adults suggests that weight stigma is associated with worsened cardiometabolic health. However, these relationships have not been examined among youth.

Objective

Assess associations between weight‐based teasing (WBT) and metabolic and inflammatory markers among two samples of youth: (1) a non‐treatment‐seeking sample and (2) a weight loss treatment‐seeking sample with obesity.

Method

Weight, height, adiposity, waist circumference and blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood samples were collected for metabolic (triglycerides, glucose, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol) and inflammatory analytes (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein in Study 1 and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in both studies). Youths completed the Perception of Teasing Scale, a measure of WBT. Metabolic and inflammatory indices were compared between those with and without teasing, adjusting for demographics and body composition.

Results

Study 1 enrolled 201 non‐treatment‐seeking youth (Mage = 13.1y; 54.2% female; 44.8% non‐Hispanic White; 32.8% with overweight/obesity); 15.4% reported WBT. Study 2 enrolled 111 treatment‐seeking adolescents with obesity (Mage = 14.0y; 66.7% female; 37.8% non‐Hispanic White); 73.0% reported WBT. Adjusting for covariates, WBT was not associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in either study.

Conclusions

WBT was not associated with worsened cardiometabolic health. Longitudinal research is needed to elucidate associations between WBT and health in youth.
Psychotherapeutic approaches to the treatment of panic attacks, hypochondriasis and agoraphobia
Authors: Diamond David B.
Published: October 2020

Various theoretical orientations suggest different treatment approaches to the agoraphobic syndrome. In this paper a self‐psychology formulation is applied to the treatment of panic attacks, hypochondriasis and agoraphobia. When these symptoms are viewed as manifestations of self‐fragmentation, their treatment can be conceptualized as a process of improving self‐cohesiveness. The initial management of symptoms sets in motion a self‐object transference which is the foundation of treatment. As therapy proceeds, the defences against affect which are associated with a primary defect in anxiety regulation can be understood in the light of childhood reconstruction and worked through in the transference. The resultant restructuring of defences promotes an increased capacity to tolerate affects without the threat of self‐fragmentation. Through this path a more durable self‐cohesiveness is achieved.
Chemically driven synthesis of Ti3+ self‐doped Li4Ti5O12 spinel in molten salt
Authors: Xie Zhigang , Song Qiushi , Xie Hongwei , Yin Huayi , Ning Zhiqiang
Published: October 2020

Surface doping of Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) with Ti3+ ions is an effective way to enhance its electrochemical properties for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, a molten salt approach was reported to synthesize Ti3+ self‐doped LTO powder. The reaction mechanism and the role of molten salt for the synthesis have been systemically discussed. Finally, electrochemical performance of the LTO powder was preliminarily evaluated as anode material of LIBs. The molten salt accelerated the mass transportation for the formation of LTO by transferring a solid diffusion to the diffusion of ions in a liquid media. Self‐doping of Ti3+ ions on the surface of LTO particles was achieved by controlling equilibriums of chemical reactions in the reactor. Electrochemical performance of the LTO powders was effectively promoted by doping Ti3+ ions on the surface. The discharge capacity of the Ti3+ self‐doped LTO powder prepared at 850°C was 171 mAhg−1, and the capacity dacayed 9.9% after 200 cycles at a rate of 0.5 C.
High abundance of human herpesvirus 8 in wastewater from a large urban area
Authors: Miyani B. , McCall C. , Xagoraraki I.
Published: October 2020

Aims

This study assesses the diversity and abundance of Human Herpesviruses (HHVs) in the influent of an urban wastewater treatment plant using shotgun sequencing, metagenomic analysis and qPCR.

Methods and Results

Influent wastewater samples were collected from the three interceptors that serve the City of Detroit and Wayne, Macomb and Oakland counties between November 2017 to February 2018. The samples were subjected to a series of processes to concentrate viruses which were further sequenced and amplified using qPCR. All nine types of HHV were detected in wastewater. Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), known as Kaposi’s sarcoma herpesvirus, which is only prevalent in 5–10% of USA population, was found to be the most abundant followed by HHV-3 or Varicella-zoster virus.

Conclusions

The high abundance of HHV-8 in the Detroit metropolitan area may be attributed to the HIV-AIDS outbreak that was ongoing in Detroit during the sampling period.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The approach described in this paper can be used to establish a baseline of viruses secreted by the community as a whole. Sudden changes in the baseline would identify changes in community health and immunity.
Impact of the implementation of best practice guidelines on nurse’s evidence‐based practice and on nurses' work environment: Research protocol
Authors: Esteban‐Sepúlveda Silvia , Sesé‐Abad Albert , Lacueva‐Pérez Laia , Domingo‐Pozo Manuela , Alonso‐Fernandez Sergio , Aquilue‐Ballarin Marta , Barcelo‐Martinez Ana Isabel , Cristobal‐Dominguez Estíbaliz , Bujalance‐Hoyos Jesús , Dossantos‐Sanchez Consuelo , Pascual‐Pascual Manuel Angel , Garcia‐Arteaga Elisabeth , Galisteo‐Gimenez Maria , Mas‐Dalmau Gemma , Heredia‐Reina Maria Pilar , Roca‐Marti Silvia , Riart María Perez , Albornos‐Muñoz Laura , Gonzalez‐Maria Esther , Fernández‐Domínguez Juan Carlos
Published: October 2020

Aim

To determine the impact of the Best Practice Spotlight Organization® initiative on nurses’ perception of their work environment and their attitudes to evidence‐based practice.

Design

Quasi‐experimental, multicentre study. The intervention is the participation in Best Prectice Spotilight Organizations to implement Best Practice Guidelines.

Methods

The study will include seven centres in the interventional group and 10 in the non‐equivalent control group, all of them belonging to the Spanish national health system. The Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index, and the Health Sciences Evidence‐Based Practice Questionnaire will be administered to a sample of 1,572 nurses at the beginning of the programme and at 1 year. This 3‐year study started in April 2018 and will continue until December 2021. Statistical analyses will be carried out using the SPSS 25.0. This project was approved by the Drug Research Ethics Committee of the Parc de Salut Mar and registered in Clinical Trials.

Discussion

The study findings will show the current state of nurses’ perception of their work environment and attitudes to evidence‐based practice, and possible changes in these parameters due to the programme.

Impact

The findings could provide a strong argument for health policymakers to scale up the Best Practice Spotlight Organization® initiative in the Spanish national health system.
Implantation of leadless pacemakers via inferior vena cava filters is feasible and safe: Insights from a multicenter experience
Authors: Houmsse Mahmoud , Karki Roshan , Gabriels James , Reinig Michael , Patel Dilesh , Hussain Sarah K. , Gandhi Gaurang D. , Lloyd Michael S. , Makary Mina S. , Okabe Toshimasa , Tamirisa Kamala , Joza Jacqueline , Patel Apoor , Afzal Muhammad R. , Epstein Laurence M. , Cha Yong‐Mei
Published: October 2020

Background

The leadless Micra transcatheter‐pacing system (Micra‐TPS) is implanted via a femoral approach using a 27‐French introducer sheath. The Micra Transcutaneous Pacing Study excluded patients with inferior vena cava (IVC) filters.

Objective

To examine the feasibility and safety of Micra‐TPS implantation through an IVC filter.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective study included patients with an IVC filter who underwent a Micra‐TPS implantation. Data for clinical and IVC filter characteristics, preprocedure imaging, and procedural interventions were collected. The primary outcome was a successful leadless pacemaker (LP) implantation via a femoral approach in the presence of an IVC filter. Periprocedural and delayed clinical complications were also evaluated.

Results

Of the 1528 Micra‐TPS implants attempted, 23 patients (1.5%) had IVC filters. The majority (69.6%) of IVC filters were permanent. Six (26.1%) patients underwent preprocedural imaging to assess for filter patency. One patient's filter was retrieved before LP implantation. The primary outcome was achieved in 21 of 22 patients (95.5%) with an existing IVC filter. An occluded IVC precluded LP implantation in one patient. Difficulty advancing the stiff guidewire or the 27‐Fr sheath was encountered in five patients. These cases required repositioning of the wire (n = 2), gradual sheath upsizing (n = 2), or balloon dilation of the filter (n = 1). Postprocedure fluoroscopy revealed intact filters in all cases. During a median 6‐month follow‐up, there were no clinical complications related to the filter or the Micra‐TPS.

Conclusion

This multicenter experience demonstrates the feasibility and safety of Micra‐TPS implantation via an IVC filter without acute procedural or delayed clinical complications.
Vascular entrapment of a multipolar basket catheter (OrionTM) during catheter ablation
Authors: Ollitrault Pierre , Champ‐Rigot Laure , Ferchaud Virginie , Pellissier Arnaud , Coffin Olivier , Milliez Paul
Published: October 2020

The IntellaMap OrionTM (Boston Scientific) is a 64‐electrode basket catheter allowing for ultrahigh‐density mapping of complex cardiac arrhythmias. We report the case of a basket catheter vascular entrapment, requiring surgical removal.
Loss of TG‐Interacting Factor 1 decreases survival in mouse models of myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Yan Ling , Davé Utpal P. , Engel Michael , Brandt Stephen J. , Hamid Rizwan
Published: October 2020

TG‐Interacting Factor 1 (Tgif1) affects proliferation and differentiation of myeloid cells and regulates self‐renewal of haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). To determine its impact on leukaemic haematopoiesis, we induced acute or chronic myeloid leukaemias (AML or CML) in mice by enforced expression of MLL‐AF9 or BCR‐ABL, respectively, in Tgif1+/+ or Tgif1−/− haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and transplanted them into syngeneic recipients. We find that loss of Tgif1 accelerates leukaemic progression and shortens survival in mice with either AML or CML. Leukaemia‐initiating cells (LICs) occur with higher frequency in AML among mice transplanted with MLL‐AF9‐transduced Tgif1−/− HSPCs than with Tgif1+/+ BMCs. Moreover, AML in mice generated with Tgif1−/− HSPCs are chemotherapy resistant and relapse more rapidly than those whose AML arose in Tgif1+/+ HSPCs. Whole transcriptome analysis shows significant alterations in gene expression profiles associated with transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐beta) and retinoic acid (RA) signalling pathways because of Tgif1 loss. These findings indicate that Tgif1 has a protective role in myeloid leukaemia initiation and progression, and its anti‐leukaemic contributions are connected to TGF‐beta‐ and RA‐driven functions.
Distinct performance profiles on the Brixton test in frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Rao Sulakshana P. , Nandi Ranita , Dutt Aparna , Kapur Narinder , Harris Jennifer M. , Thompson Jennifer C. , Snowden Julie S.
Published: October 2020

The Brixton Spatial Anticipation Test is a well‐established test of executive function that evaluates the capacity to abstract, follow, and switch rules. There has been remarkably little systematic analysis of Brixton test performance in the prototypical neurodegenerative disorder of the frontal lobes: behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) or evaluation of the test’s ability to distinguish frontal from temporal lobe degenerative disease. We carried out a quantitative and qualitative analysis of Brixton performance in 76 patients with bvFTD and 34 with semantic dementia (SD) associated with temporal lobe degeneration. The groups were matched for demographic variables and illness duration. The bvFTD group performed significantly more poorly (U = 348, p < .0001, r = .58), 53% of patients scoring in the poor–impaired range compared with 6% of SD patients. Whereas bvFTD patients showed problems in rule acquisition and switching, SD patients did not, despite their impaired conceptual knowledge. Error analysis revealed more frequent perseverative errors in bvFTD, particularly responses unconnected to the stimulus, as well as random responses. Stimulus‐bound errors were rare. Within the bvFTD group, there was variation in performance profile, which could not be explained by demographic, neurological, or genetic factors. The findings demonstrate sensitivity and specificity of the Brixton test in identifying frontal lobe degenerative disease and highlight the clinical value of qualitative analysis of test performance. From a theoretical perspective, the findings provide evidence that semantic knowledge and the capacity to acquire rules are dissociable. Moreover, they exemplify the separable functional contributions to executive performance.
Phenotypic features and fertility outcomes of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: The effect of quality of life
Authors: Zhang Duojia , Gao Jingshu , Qin Huichao , Chang Hui , Wu Xiaoke
Published: October 2020

Aim

This work sought to evaluate the correlation between the five domains of the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Questionnaire (PCOSQ) and anxiety and depression scales and the clinical phenotype and fertility outcomes in infertile polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and to determine the effect of quality of life (QOL) on the clinical, biochemical and fertility disorders in these patients.

Methods

The data in this study came from a large‐scale hospital‐based cohort survey of infertile PCOS patients across mainland China. A total of 1000 infertile PCOS subjects diagnosed according to the modified Rotterdam criteria ranging in age from 20 to 40 years in 21 sub‐centers (27 hospitals) were enrolled. Baseline anthropometric parameters, endocrine indexes, metabolic panel, QOL questionnaires and the fertility outcomes of ovulation, conception, pregnancy, pregnancy loss and live birth were collected.

Results

PCOSQ scores were significantly correlated with most of the baseline parameters. PCOSQ‐weight domain scores of National Institute of Health‐PCOS group were significantly lower compared with non‐National Institute of Health‐PCOS group. The five domains scores of PCOSQ were significantly negatively correlated with the body mass index levels of PCOS patients. The serum testosterone levels (total testosterone, free testosterone and free androgen index) were significantly negatively correlated to the scores for the weight, body hair, infertility and emotion domains of PCOSQ. Scores on the anxiety and depression scales were significantly and positively correlated with luteinizing hormone, luteinizing hormone/follicle‐stimulating hormone levels. In the low‐score group of infertility domain, the rates of conception, pregnancy and live birth decreased significantly.

Conclusions

QOL appears to have an impact on the physical symptoms of PCOS, and the emotional stress of infertility affects fertility outcomes.
Oral health‐related quality of life in X‐linked hypophosphataemia and osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Gjørup Hans , Beck‐Nielsen Signe Sparre , Hald Jannie Dahl , Haubek Dorte
Published: October 2020

X‐linked hypophosphataemia (XLH) and osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) are rare congenital disorders characterised by skeletal dysplasia. The two disorders may include dental anomalies potentially affecting individual well‐being. The aims of study were (a) to assess the oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Danish adults with XLH or OI, and (b) to compare the results of the groups. A cross‐sectional study including 35 adults with XLH, 56 adults with OI type I and 17 adults with OI types III‐IV was conducted. The OHRQoL was assessed by the 49‐item version of the questionnaire Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP). Summed domain scores (seven) were compared between XLH and OI groups. Prevalence of severe impact on OHRQoL (scores 3‐4) was compared between groups. The median scores in XLH group exceeded the medians in OI (P < .05) in the domains functional limitation (XLH:6.5; OI:4.0), pain (XLH:9.5; OI:5.0), psychological discomfort (XLH:5.5; OI:2.0), psychological disability (XLH:2.0; OI:0.0), handicap (XLH:2.0; OI:0.0) and total OHIP (XLH:35.0; OI:14.0). Differences in domains physical disability (XLH: 4.0; OI: 1.0) and social disability (XLH: 0.0; OI: 0.0) were not significant. Prevalence of severe impact on OHRQoL in the XLH group significantly exceeded the level in OI group in the domains functional limitation (XLH: 59%; OI: 35%), psychological discomfort (XLH: 38%; OI: 20%) and physical disability (XLH: 32%; OI: 13%). In conclusion, adults with XLH experience a higher negative impact on their OHRQoL than adults with OI. Only to a minor degree, individuals with OI types III‐IV experience a higher impact on OHRQoL than individuals with OI type I.
Polyclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis in English bulldogs
Authors: Rout Emily D. , Moore A Russell , Burnett Robert C. , Labadie Julia D. , Hughes Kelly L. , Navin Paul A. , Yoshimoto Janna A. , Avery Paul R. , Avery Anne C.
Published: October 2020

Background

English bulldogs disproportionally develop an expansion of small B‐cells, which has been interpreted as B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (BCLL). However, clonality testing in these cases has often not been supportive of neoplasia.

Hypothesis

English bulldogs have a syndrome of nonneoplastic B‐cell expansion.

Animals

Eighty‐four English bulldogs with small‐sizedCD21+ B‐cell lymphocytosis in the blood as determined by flow cytometry.

Methods

This is a retrospective study. We characterized this syndrome by assessing B‐cell clonality, clinical presentation, flow cytometric features, and immunoglobulin gammopathy patterns. We identified 84 cases with CD21+ lymphocytosis among 195 English bulldogs with blood samples submitted to the Colorado State University‐Clinical Immunology laboratory for immunophenotyping between 2010 and 2019. Flow cytometry features were compared to normal B‐cells and BCLL cases. PCR for antigen receptor rearrangements (PARR) by multiple immunoglobulin primers was performed to assess B‐cell clonality. A subset of cases with gammopathy were examined by protein electrophoresis, immunofixation, and immunoglobulin subclass ELISA quantification.

Results

Seventy percent (58/83) of cases had polyclonal or restricted polyclonal immunoglobulin gene rearrangements, suggesting nonmalignant B‐cell expansion. The median age of all dogs in the study was 6.8 years and 74% were male. The median (range) lymphocyte count was 22 400/μL (2000‐384 400/μL) and B‐cells had low expression of class II MHC and CD25. Splenomegaly or splenic masses were detected in 57% (26/46) of cases and lymphadenopathy in 11% (7/61). Seventy‐one percent (52/73) of cases had hyperglobulinemia and 77% (23/30) with globulin characterization had IgA ± IgM polyclonal or restricted polyclonal gammopathy patterns.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Polyclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis in English bulldogs is characterized by low B‐cell class II MHC and CD25 expression, splenomegaly and hyperglobulinemia consisting of increased IgA ± IgM. We hypothesize that this syndrome has a genetic basis.
Effects of salinity on growth characteristics and osmoregulation of juvenile cobia, Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus 1766), reared in potassium‐amended inland saline groundwater
Authors: Antony Jose , Reddy Appidi Krishna , Sudhagar Arun , Vungurala Hari Krishna , Roy Luke A
Published: October 2020

The suitability of inland saline groundwater as a medium to culture juvenile cobia, Rachycentron canadum, was assessed. In the first experiment, juvenile cobia stocked in raw (unamended) saline groundwater at salinities of 5, 10, and 15 g/L exhibited complete mortality after 108, 176, and 195 hr, respectively. The second experiment evaluated the rearing of juvenile cobia (mean weight ~9.23 ± 0.12 g) in potassium (K+)‐amended saline groundwater (100% K+ fortified) and reconstituted seawater at salinities of 5, 10, and 15 g/L to assess growth and osmoregulation in distinct culture media. Following 60 days of culture, all fish survived the experimental period. Final mean bodyweight of cobia reared in K+‐amended saline groundwater (103.2–115.8 g) and seawater (111.2–113.8 g) of different salinities did not vary significantly (p > .05). No differences (p > .05) were observed in specific growth rate, weight gain (%), and feed conversion ratio between treatment groups. Serum osmolality increased with salinity and was significantly higher (p < .05) for fish in K+‐amended saline groundwater (353–361 mOsmol/Kg) than in reconstituted seawater (319–332 mOsmol/Kg), although differences were not observed between salinities by water type. Cobia stocked in saline groundwater of different salinities were osmoregulating normally, and the higher values observed may be because of variations in ionic composition and other interfering ions in saline groundwater. Trial results suggest that juvenile cobia can achieve optimal growth in K+‐amended saline groundwater of low and intermediate salinities.