bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE EMPIRE OF THE FUTURE
Authors: Bowker Geoffrey C.
Published: March 2019

This rich collection analyzes science in the archives over the past several thousand years. The chapters work together to tell stories of ambitious attempts to provide timeless data for science, which will be used for generations to come—ranging from ancient astronomy to geology to life‐logging and the development of web search. They also demonstrate convincingly that archives are powerful forces across the sciences—every science discussed has an archival base—which partly determine what kind of general knowledge claims can be made by future generations: it is hard to read an archive askance. The collection works best as a series of individual chapters, though some work is done to indicate where they speak to one another. It is a pity that there was not more input from archivists themselves in the project: their noninclusion means that some archival issues (especially what goes on with data after it gets into the archive—how it gets cleaned up, changed, reorganized) are treated somewhat lightly. The collection does provide a very useful set of tools for thinking about scientific archives. It is also an excellent introduction to the peculiarities of scientific archives—one that reflects back on the use of archives in history in general.
Assessing students’ confidence in interpreting dental radiographs following a blended learning module
Authors: Pacheco‐Pereira Camila , Senior Anthea , Green Jacqueline , Watson Ellen , Rasmussen Kari , Compton Sharon M.
Published: March 2019

Objective

This study assessed senior dental hygiene (DH) students’ self‐reported confidence in interpreting dental radiographs following the introduction of a blended learning (BL) module for radiology interpretation. The assessment of students was conducted five months prior to graduation.

Methods

A BL oral radiology module was designed. In order to capture the context, descriptions and differences of students’ experience and confidence, a qualitative research approach was selected. Data were captured using a semi‐structured interview process and analysed using phenomenographic methods.

Results

Sixteen students were interviewed. Blinded transcripts were analysed, and the main themes relating to confidence were extracted and arranged into categories. The categories were coded as to how confident (low, medium or high) each of the students felt specific to varying contexts and complexities of radiographic interpretation.

Conclusion

Predominately, the BL model had a positive impact on DH students’ confidence in the interpretation of radiographic findings. However, when asked about their level of overall confidence in interpreting dental radiographs, students still did not describe themselves as confident for all potential findings on radiographs at this point in their education. The students highlighted the importance of having patient history details and clinical assessment findings included in the interpretation exercises and expressed a desire to collaborate with other professionals when interpreting radiographs.
Interference in specialized coagulation assays affecting the protein C pathway: Effects of marked haemolysis, hyperbilirubinaemia and lipaemia on chromogenic and clotting tests on two coagulation platforms
Authors: Jilma‐Stohlawetz Petra , Lysy Katharina , Belik Sabine , Jilma Bernd , Quehenberger Peter
Published: March 2019

Background

Haemolysis, lipaemia and hyperbilirubinaemia represent important challenges in the coagulation laboratory. Test results are influenced not only by the degree of the interfering substance but also by the detection system.

Methods

We investigated the interference of free haemoglobin, triglycerides and bilirubin on a “modified activated protein C (APC) resistance test,” protein C activity and protein S (antigen and activity) with two coagulation analysers, the STA‐R Evolution and the ACL TOP.

Results

Haemolysis interfered with all assays on the STA‐R Evolution resulting in higher levels of protein C activity and lower levels of protein S and a decreased APC ratio compared with baseline levels. On the ACL TOP, haemolysis only diminished protein S antigen levels and the APC ratio. Lipaemia increased protein C activity and protein S activity levels on the STA‐R Evolution, whereas APC‐R decreased on the ACL TOP and protein S antigen could not be measured in any lipaemic samples. Hyperbilirubinaemia caused an increase in protein C activity and in protein S antigen and a decrease in APC‐R on the STA‐R Evolution, whereas a decline of protein C activity, of protein S antigen and of the APC‐R could be observed in icteric samples on the ACL TOP.

Conclusions

Our data show that the degree of interference associated with haemolysis, lipaemia and hyperbilirubinaemia is different in several assays. Some assay limitations were not reproduced, and limitations stated in kit inserts cannot be assumed to apply to all analysers.
Postoperative prognostic model for patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma in a Chinese population
Authors: Zhu Yan , Zhao Yao‐Rui , Yang Xian‐Fa , Wei Mao‐Ti , Niu Yuan‐Jie , Chang Ji‐Wu , Wang Ai‐Xiang , Liang Xuan
Published: March 2019

Objectives

To develop a predictive model for the oncological outcomes of clear cell renal cell carcinoma in a Chinese population.

Methods

A retrospective study of 1108 patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma who underwent nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy between January 2006 and December 2013 was carried out. Recurrence‐free survival was calculated using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Differences between the groups were compared using the log–rank test. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to test associations between features and outcomes. The discriminative ability of the models was validated using Harrell's concordance index and bootstrapping.

Results

Overall, 942 patients who met the inclusion criteria had been followed. The median follow‐up period was 72 months (range 1–143 months). Multivariate analysis showed that age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, preoperative platelet count, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, tumor size, 2010 tumor stage (pT3 and pT4) and Fuhrman nuclear grade were independent risk factors affecting recurrence‐free survival in clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients (P < 0.05). These factors were assigned to develop a new model. The patients were divided into three groups based on the risk of recurrence. The difference among the prognoses of patients in the three groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The concordance index for our new model and that for Leibovich's 2018 model were 0.791 and 0.750, respectively.

Conclusions

In the present study, the new model has a higher concordance index than does Leibovich's 2018 model of clear cell renal cell carcinoma in the Asian population, with no added pain for patients. This new model might be an appropriate risk stratification tool for clinical work.
Prevalence of defective restorations and factors associated with re‐intervention in primary teeth: A retrospective university‐based study
Authors: de Ávila Natália Marchioretto , Bottezini Paola Arosi , Nicoloso Gabriel Ferreira , de Araujo Fernando Borba , Ardenghi Thiago Machado , Lenzi Tathiane Larissa , Casagrande Luciano
Published: March 2019

Aim

This retrospective study investigated the prevalence of defective restorations in a public dental service and factors associated with re‐intervention in primary teeth.

Design

The sample consisted of all clinical records (census) of children presenting restorations in primary teeth, who had undergone dental treatment in a public set during 1‐year period. For analysis, only restorations presenting defects related to esthetic, functional, or biological reasons at first clinical examination were included. The outcome ‘Success’ was set when the restoration received no treatment (monitored), refurbishing, sealing of margins, or was repaired. Otherwise, ‘Failure’ was set whenever the restoration was either replaced or if another treatment affecting the restoration was necessary (endodontic treatment or tooth extraction). Poisson regression model was used to assess the prevalence of patient‐ and tooth‐related factors that may influence the re‐intervention decision (repair or replacement).

Results

From a total of 302 restorations placed in 114 children, 37.7% presented some type of defect. Restorations with recurrent caries were more frequently present in caries‐active patients (P = 0.03) and were frequently replaced (95% CI, 1.05‐3.22, RR = 1.84, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Presence of recurrent caries influences the re‐intervention decision, leading to restoration replacement in most cases.
Group‐based transmission of fatherhood among intergenerational African American fathers: A case study
Authors: Gamboa Charlene J. , Julion Wrenetha A.
Published: March 2019

Problem

Nonresidential fatherhood contributes to the fact that over 70% of African American (AA) children grow up in homes without their biological fathers. In the absence of gender‐specific parental guidance, AA young men who become fathers may lack paternal‐parenting preparation.

Methods

This secondary data analysis describes the verbal exchange of fatherhood perspectives among four experienced fathers and one adolescent father who participated in a pilot of group‐based fatherhood intervention. Qualitative descriptive case study methodology guided by Social Learning Theory was used to explore the transmission of fathering perspectives between fathers.

Findings

Qualitative thematic analysis affirmed that adverse emotional and psychological distress may be avoided with positive parenting preparedness. Culturally‐specific group‐based bidirectional learning can transmit fatherhood knowledge and skills to adolescent nonresidential fathers and this new perspective can contribute to adolescent wellbeing.

Conclusions

There is a need to investigate channels for AA adolescent boys, young men and fathers to engage in cultural‐congruent paternal modeling in the event that their biological father or other social father role models are absent from their lives.
Exploring racial/ethnic disparities in hypertension care among patients served by health centers in the United States
Authors: Sripipatana Alek , Pourat Nadereh , Chen Xiao , Zhou Weihao , Lu Connie
Published: March 2019

Some racial/ethnic minorities are more likely to have hypertension and experience increased hypertension‐related morbidity and mortality compared to whites. Health Resources and Services Administration‐funded health centers care for over 27 million patients, 62 percent of whom are racial/ethnic minorities. We assessed the presence of racial/ethnic disparities in (a) hypertension management and (b) hypertension outcomes among health center patients. We used data from the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey and performed multilevel logistic regression models to predict hypertension management counseling, patient adherence to counseling and medication regimen, management plan receipt, high blood pressure at last clinical visit, confidence in hypertension self‐management, and hypertension‐related emergency department (ED) episodes or hospitalizations in the past year. We controlled for patient characteristics including age, sex, education, nativity, health behaviors, health care access, and comorbidities. We found significantly higher odds of diet counseling (African Americans, OR: 1.87; Asian Americans, OR: 3.02, AIAN, OR: 2.01), reduced sodium intake (African American, OR: 2.42), and adherence to exercise counseling (African American, OR: 3.52; Asian Americans, OR: 2.93). We also found lower odds of taking hypertension control medication (AIAN, OR: 0.50) and higher odds of hypertension‐related ED visits (African Americans, OR: 3.61, AIAN, OR: 5.31). These results highlight the success of health centers in managing hypertension by race/ethnicity but found adverse hypertension outcomes for some groups. Racial/ethnically tailored efforts might be required to manage hypertension and improve outcomes.
Sex‐specific patterns in the association between salt intake and blood pressure: The ELSA‐Brasil study
Authors: Mill José Geraldo , Baldo Marcelo P. , Molina Maria del Carmen B. , Schmidt Maria Inês , Barreto Sandhi M. , Chor Dora , Griep Rosane H. , Matos Sheila M. , Ribeiro Antonio Luiz P. , Duncan Bruce B. , Aquino Estela M. , Lotufo Paulo A. , Bensenor Isabela
Published: March 2019

Blood pressure (BP) is a strong cardiovascular risk factor, predicting cardiovascular mortality in the general population. High salt consumption is a major contributor of increased BP and hypertension. However, there is a controversy on whether BP response to salt intake would be sex‐specific. Thus, we aimed to verify the changes in BP according to different salt intake in men and women in a large sample of adults. The present analysis refers to 12 813 participants (from 35 to 64 years) with a validated 12‐hour overnight urine collection in which salt intake was estimated. A set of questionnaires, clinical examination, and laboratory tests were carried out during a single visit to one of the six investigation centers involved. Salt intake was 12.9 ± 5.9 g/d in men and 9.3 ± 4.3 g/d in women. BP increases as salt intake increases, regardless of using BP‐lowering medication. The slope of increase in BP elicited by salt intake was significantly higher in women than in men. Thus, the increase in BP by salt intake was stepper in women even after controlling for confounders, regardless of using BP‐lowering medication or being hypertensive. In conclusion, salt intake is elevated in this large sample of Brazilian adults in which only a few participants are compliant with the recommendation. Also, women have a higher responsiveness of BP according to salt intake than men, and it is not associated with age, BP level, or the use of BP‐lowering medication.
Prevalence and risk factors for painful diabetic neuropathy in secondary healthcare in Qatar
Authors: Ponirakis Georgios , Elhadd Tarik , Chinnaiyan Subitha , Dabbous Zeinab , Siddiqui Mashhood , Al‐muhannadi Hamad , Petropoulos Ioannis , Khan Adnan , Ashawesh Khaled AE , Dukhan Khaled MO , Mahfoud Ziyad R , Murgatroyd Christopher , Slevin Mark , Malik Rayaz A
Published: March 2019

Aims/Introduction

Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN) has a significant impact on the patient's quality of life. The prevalence of PDPN in the Middle East and North Africa region has been reported to be almost double that of populations in the UK. We sought to determine the prevalence of PDPN and its associated factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending secondary care in Qatar.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 1,095 participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending Qatar's two national diabetes centers. PDPN and impaired vibration perception on the pulp of the large toes were assessed using the Douleur Neuropathique en 4 questionnaire with a cut‐off ≥4 and the neurothesiometer with a cut‐off ≥15 V, respectively.

Results

The prevalence of PDPN was 34.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 31.7–37.3), but 80% of these patients had not previously been diagnosed or treated for this condition. Arabs had a higher prevalence of PDPN compared with South Asians (P < 0.05). PDPN was associated with impaired vibration perception adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.42 (95% CI 2.92–6.70), smoking AOR 2.43 (95% CI 1.43–4.15), obesity AOR 1.74 (95% CI 1.13–2.66), being female AOR 1.65 (95% CI: 1.03–2.64) and duration of diabetes AOR 1.08 (95% CI 1.05–1.11). Age, poor glycemic control, hypertension, physical activity and proteinuria showed no association with PDPN.

Conclusions

PDPN occurs in one‐third of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending secondary care in Qatar, but the majority have not been diagnosed. Arabs are at higher risk for PDPN. Impaired vibration perception, obesity and smoking are associated with PDPN in Qatar.
Optimization of placebo use in clinical trials with systemic treatments for atopic dermatitis: an International Eczema Council survey‐based position statement
Authors: Leshem Y.A. , Bissonnette R. , Paul C. , Silverberg J.I. , Irvine A.D. , Paller A.S. , Cork M.J. , Guttman‐Yassky E.
Published: March 2019

Background

As novel systemic therapeutics for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) are developed, ethical and methodological concerns regarding placebo‐controlled‐trials (PCT) have surfaced.

Objective

To guide the design and implementation of PCT in AD, focusing on trials with systemic medications.

Methods

A subgroup of the International Eczema Council (IEC) developed a consensus e‐survey, which was disseminated to IEC members.

Results

The response rate was 43/82 (52%). Consensus was reached on 24/27 statements and on 3/11 options from multiple‐selection statements, including: performing monotherapy studies in proof‐of‐concept phases; avoiding concomitant topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors until a predefined timepoint as rescue (borderline consensus); selection of sites and assessors with recognized expertise in AD clinical trials; clear definition and identification of baseline disease severity; minimizing time and proportion of patients on placebo; using daily emollients with several options provided; instigating open‐label extension studies for enrolment after a predefined timepoint; and including outcomes which set a higher bar for disease clearance.

Conclusion

Conducting PCT in AD requires balancing several, sometimes opposing principles, including ethics, methodology, regulatory requirements and real‐world needs. This paper can provide a framework for conducting PCT with systemic medications for patients with AD.
Redescription of Antetintinnidium mucicola (Claparède and Lachmann, 1858) nov. gen., nov. comb. (Alveolata, Ciliophora, Tintinnina)
Authors: Ganser Maximilian H. , Agatha Sabine
Published: March 2019

Tintinnid ciliates have traditionally been described and classified exclusively based on their lorica features. Although information on the cell characters is urgently needed for a natural classification, more molecular than cytological data has been accumulated over recent years. Apparently, the tintinnids developed in the marine environment and entered freshwater several times independently. Typical freshwater tintinnids belong to the genera Tintinnidium and Membranicola. The species are comparatively well‐known regarding their morphology and characterised by two unusual de novo originating ciliary rows, the ventral organelles. In contrast, the cell features in the marine/brackish Tintinnidium species, specifically their somatic ciliary patterns, are insufficiently known or not known at all. Therefore, the morphology of a common marine/brackish representative, Tintinnidium mucicola, is redescribed based on live observation and protargol‐stained material. Furthermore, biogeographical and autecological data of the species are compiled from literature and own records. The phylogenetic relationships of T. mucicola are inferred and the diversity of the family Tintinnidiidae is assessed from 18S rDNA sequences. The study shows that T. mucicola is not only molecularly distinct, but also characterised by many plesiomorphic features, for instance, it does not possess a verifiable homologue to the ventral organelles. Hence, a new genus, Antetintinnidium nov. gen., is established for T. mucicola. The new insights into the diversity of Tintinnidiidae shed light on the early evolution of tintinnids and might provide clues on their adaptions to freshwater.
Relationship between swimming capacities and morphological traits of fish larvae at settlement stage: a study of several coastal Mediterranean species
Authors: Rossi Amélie , Levaray Marc , Paillon Christelle , Durieux Eric D.H. , Pasqualini Vanina , Agostini Sylvia
Published: March 2019

Experimental measurements were made in the laboratory to determine the swimming capacities of settlement‐stage fish larvae of several Mediterranean coastal species collected from the nearshore waters of Corsica, France. Critical swimming speed (Ucrit, cm s−1) was measured to provide a realistic laboratory estimate of in situ swimming speed. Morphometric traits were measured to assess potential predictors of a species’ swimming ability and, when possible, daily otolith increments were used to estimate age. Observed swimming speeds were consistent with other temperate species and demonstrated that the tested species are competent swimmers and not passive components of their environment. Morphological traits varied in their correlation with Ucrit across groups and species. Direct measurements of morphological traits were better predictors than calculated ratios. Pelagic larval duration had little relationship with swimming speed among species for which daily otolith increments were counted. In addition to expanding the database on swimming capacities of settlement‐stage fish larvae in the Mediterranean Sea, this study also developed methods that simplify the assessment of larval fish swimming ability. Swimming speed data are essential for improving larval dispersal models and for predicting recruitment rates in coastal fish populations.
Utility of the EncephalApp Stroop Test for covert hepatic encephalopathy screening in Chinese cirrhotic patients
Authors: Zeng Xin , Li Xiao‐Xue , Shi Pei‐Mei , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Song Yang , Liu Qing , Wei Lai , Bajaj Jasmohan S , Zhu Yan‐Hua , Li Yi , Gu Yan , Xie Wei‐Fen , Liu Yu‐Lan
Published: March 2019

Background and Aim

Considering the large size of the potential population and limitations of common detection methods, covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) is difficult to screen for routinely. The present study aims to explore EncephalApp Stroop Test as a smartphone‐based CHE screening tool in China.

Methods

A multicenter, single‐visit study was carried out. The cutoff of the Chinese EncephalApp translation was determined by using Chinese standardized psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) in cirrhotic patients as the gold standard. Indicators reflecting time required and number of tests on subtask on (naming the color of pound signs) and off (naming the color of the word in discordant coloring) were recorded, with the feedback from investigators and patients.

Results

One hundred forty‐four patients were included; 58 (40.28%) patients were diagnosed with CHE by PHES. The cutoff of > 97.34 s for off time and > 186.63 s for on time + off time had the maximum area under the curve values (0.77) in all patients. Furthermore, with the cutoff of 186.63 s, on time + off time has the highest sensitivity (0.86). However, the specificity was unsatisfactory (0.59). Age and alcoholic hepatitis (odds ratio = 1.05 and 3.12, both P < 0.05) were positively correlated with the risk of CHE. The experience with electronic devices and education duration were negatively correlated (odds ratio = 0.21 and 0.92, both P < 0.05). Compared with PHES, EncephalApp represented 38% time saving. Furthermore, it was superior to PHES regarding accessibility, convenience, and acceptability by administrators (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The EncephalApp Stroop Test is an efficient screening tool for CHE in Chinese cirrhotic patients.
A prospective study of focal brain atrophy, mobility and fitness
Authors: Tian Q. , Resnick S. M. , Davatzikos C. , Erus G. , Simonsick E. M. , Studenski S. A. , Ferrucci L.
Published: March 2019

Background

The parallel decline of mobility and cognition with ageing is explained in part by shared brain structural changes that are related to fitness. However, the temporal sequence between fitness, brain structural changes and mobility loss has not been fully evaluated.

Methods

Participants were from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, aged 60 or older, initially free of cognitive and mobility impairments, with repeated measures of fitness (400‐m time), mobility (6‐m gait speed) and neuroimaging markers over 4 years (n = 332). Neuroimaging markers included volumes of total brain, ventricles, frontal, parietal, temporal and subcortical motor areas, and corpus callosum. Autoregressive models were used to examine the temporal sequence of each brain volume with mobility and fitness, adjusted for age, sex, race, body mass index, height, education, intracranial volume and APOE ɛ4 status.

Results

After adjustment, greater volumes of total brain and selected frontal, parietal and temporal areas, and corpus callosum were unidirectionally associated with future faster gait speed over and beyond cross‐sectional and autoregressive associations. There were trends towards faster gait speed being associated with future greater hippocampus and precuneus. Higher fitness was unidirectionally associated with future greater parahippocampal gyrus and not with volumes in other areas. Smaller ventricle predicted future higher fitness.

Conclusion

Specific regional brain volumes predict future mobility impairment. Impaired mobility is a risk factor for future atrophy of hippocampus and precuneus. Maintaining fitness preserves parahippocampal gyrus volume. Findings provide new insight into the complex and bidirectional relationship between the parallel decline of mobility and cognition often observed in older persons.
Differentiation of lineages within “Colletotrichum gloeosporioides s.l.” associated with cassava anthracnose disease by BOX‐ and ERIC‐PCRs
Authors: Lopes da Silva Leandro , Dórea Bragança Carlos Augusto , Fortes Ferreira Cláudia , Alves Silva Diamantino Maria Selma , Alves Santos de Oliveira Saulo
Published: March 2019

Several molecular techniques have been used to differentiate species or genetic lineages of microorganisms prior to sequencing. Among them, BOX‐ and ERIC‐PCRs may provide specific banding patterns for different species, allowing its differentiation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate these techniques as a tool for differentiation of phylogenetic lineages belonging to the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex associated with cassava anthracnose disease. Sets of BOX‐ and ERIC‐PCR primers were used to assess the differentiation of lineages belonging to the complex with 81 C. gloeosporioides sensu lato (s.l.) isolates from different cassava producing regions. Some were identified by sequencing, such as Colletotrichum fructicola, Colletotrichum tropicale, C. gloeosporioides s.s, Colletotrichum theobromicola, Colletotrichum siamense, Colletotrichum brevisporum and Colletotrichum sichuanensis. The primers were able to amplify DNA fragments from all isolates. The ERIC‐PCR presented a wider range of banding patterns in comparison to BOX‐PCR, providing better differentiation of the individuals, as well as a higher correlation with the phylogenetic data was obtained by ERIC‐PCR and the combined data set for “BOX‐/ERIC‐PCRs,” inferred by Mantel test. However, the use of concatenated data (BOX‐/ERIC‐PCRs) reduced the discriminatory capacity presented by ERIC‐PCR alone, probably due to the lowest resolution of BOX‐PCR. Therefore, ERIC‐PCR technique enabled efficient differentiation of isolates belonging to the C. gloeosporioides complex and can be used to analyse multiple isolates in a collection and also being an important tool as a guide in the decision‐making process prior to sequencing. Based on this methodology, it was possible to identify two new species associated with cassava anthracnose disease, C. brevisporum and C. sichuanensis, being the first report of these two species associated with cassava anthracnose disease in Brazil.
Differential ammonia metabolism and toxicity between avian and mammalian species, and effect of ammonia on skeletal muscle: A comparative review
Authors: Stern Rachel A. , Mozdziak Paul E.
Published: March 2019

Comparative aspects of ammonia toxicity, specific to liver and skeletal muscle and skeletal muscle metabolism between avian and mammalian species are discussed in the context of models for liver disease and subsequent skeletal muscle wasting. The purpose of this review is to present species differences in ammonia metabolism and to specifically highlight observed differences in skeletal muscle response to excess ammonia in avian species. Ammonia, which is produced during protein catabolism and is an essential component of nucleic acid and protein biosynthesis, is detoxified mainly in the liver. While the liver is consistent as the main organ responsible for ammonia detoxification, there are evolutionary differences in ammonia metabolism and nitrogen excretory products between avian and mammalian species. In patients with liver disease and all mammalian models, inadequate ammonia detoxification and successive increased circulating ammonia concentration, termed hyperammonemia, leads to severe skeletal muscle atrophy, increased apoptosis and reduced protein synthesis, altogether having deleterious effects on muscle size and strength. Previously, an avian embryonic model, designed to determine the effects of increased circulating ammonia on muscle development, revealed that ammonia elicits a positive myogenic response. Specifically, induced hyperammonemia in avian embryos resulted in a reduction in myostatin, a well‐known inhibitor of muscle growth, expression, whereas myostatin expression is significantly increased in mammalian models of hyperammonemia. These interesting findings imply that species differences in ammonia metabolism allow avians to utilize ammonia for growth. Understanding the intrinsic physiological mechanisms that allow for ammonia to be utilized for growth has potential to reveal novel approaches to muscle growth in avian species and will provide new targets for preventing muscle degeneration in mammalian species.
The effects of dream rebound: evidence for emotion‐processing theories of dreaming
Authors: Malinowski Josie , Carr Michelle , Edwards Christopher , Ingarfill Anya , Pinto Alexandra
Published: March 2019

Suppressing thoughts often leads to a “rebound” effect, both in waking cognition (thoughts) and in sleep cognition (dreams). Rebound may be influenced by the valence of the suppressed thought, but there is currently no research on the effects of valence on dream rebound. Further, the effects of dream rebound on subsequent emotional response to a suppressed thought have not been studied before. The present experiment aimed to investigate whether emotional valence of a suppressed thought affects dream rebound, and whether dream rebound subsequently influences subjective emotional response to the suppressed thought. Participants (N = 77) were randomly assigned to a pleasant or unpleasant thought suppression condition, suppressed their target thought for 5 min pre‐sleep every evening, reported the extent to which they successfully suppressed the thought, and reported their dreams every morning for 7 days. It was found that unpleasant thoughts were more prone to dream rebound than pleasant thoughts. There was no effect of valence on the success or failure of suppression during wakefulness. Dream rebound and successful suppression were each found to have beneficial effects for subjective emotional response to both pleasant and unpleasant thoughts. The results may lend support for an emotion‐processing theory of dream function.
Optimal Production Tax in a Mixed Market with an Endogenous Market Structure
Authors: Cato Susumu , Matsumura Toshihiro
Published: March 2019

We investigate how the optimal production tax rate is affected by privatization policies in a mixed oligopoly in which a state‐owned public firm competes against private firms in a free‐entry market. First, we investigate the domestic private firm case. The optimal tax rate is strictly positive except for the full privatization and full nationalization cases, and the relationship between the optimal tax rate and degree of privatization is an inverted U‐shape. Next, we investigate the foreign private firm case and find that the non‐monotonic relationship disappears.
Molecular detection ofBartonellain fleas (Hexapoda, Siphonaptera) collected from wild rodents (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae) from Argentina
Authors: Cicuttin G. , De Salvo M. N. , Sanchez J. , Cañón C. , Lareschi M.
Published: March 2019

Bartonellaare facultative intracellular Gram‐negative bacteria, transmitted mainly by hematophagous arthropods, and the rodents act as a natural reservoir. Different species ofBartonellaassociated with rodents have been implicated as causing human disease. Studies from Argentina are scarce and noBartonellafrom fleas have been reported previously. The present study investigated the presence ofBartonellaspp. in fleas associated with sigmodontine rodents in four localities of the Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. In total, 51 fleas (four species) were analysed of which 41.2% were found to be positive for thegltAgene fragment via a nested polymerase chain reaction. All positive fleas were of the speciesNeotyphloceras crackensisfrom three different localities. Eight of the 21 amplified samples were sequenced, and the presence of three different genotypes was detected with an identity of 95.5–98.8% amongst themselves.Bartonellagenotypes from American rodents and rodent fleas were recovered in a monophyletic group. Similarly, most of the Peruvian and all Argentinean variants constitute a natural group sister of the American remainder. The importance of theBartonellaspp. with respect to public health is unknown, although future studies could provide evidence of the possible involvement ofN. crackensisin theBartonellatransmission cycles.
Regional anesthesia for sternotomy and bypass—Beyond the epidural
Authors: Raj Naveen
Published: March 2019

Systemic opioids have been the main stay for the management of perioperative pain in children undergoing cardiac surgery with sternotomy. The location, distribution, and duration of pain in these children have not been studied as extensively as in adults. Currently, there is no consensus to the dose of opioids required to provide optimum analgesia and attenuate the stress response while minimizing their unwanted side effects. At present there is a tendency to use lower dose aiming for early extubation and minimize opioid‐related side effects, but this may not obtund the stress response in all children. The development of chronic pain although rare when compared to adults is still a risk that needs further investigation. Regional anesthetic techniques, by blocking the afferent impulses, have been shown to be advantageous in reducing the stress response to surgery as well as pain and opioid requirements in children up to 24 hours after cardiac surgery. Central neuraxial blockades have not gained wide spread acceptance in these procedures due to the worry of hematoma, although rare, leading to catastrophic neurological outcomes. This review focuses on blocks outside the vertebral column, ie, peripheral nerve blocks, performed either in the front or the back of the chest wall to target the thoracic intercostal nerves. Techniques of ultrasound‐guided bilateral single shot paravertebral block and erector spinae block posteriorly and transversus thoracic plane block anteriorly are discussed. In addition, parasternal block and wound infiltration by surgeon as well as continuous local anesthetic infusion via catheters placed at end of procedures are summarized. Current evidence available for use of these techniques in children undergoing cardiac surgery are reviewed. These are based on small studies and case series and further studies are required to evaluate the risks and benefits of local anesthetic blocks in children undergoing cardiac surgery.
Registration‐directed phase 1/2 trial of irinotecan for pediatric solid tumors
Authors: Makimoto Atsushi , Mugishima Hideo , Taga Takashi , Ishida Yuji , Nagatoshi Yoshihisa , Ida Kohmei , Kumagai Masaaki , Kimura Toshimi , Ohashi Yasuo , Kaneko Michio
Published: March 2019

Background

Although irinotecan hydrochloride (IRI) is a promising chemotherapeutic agent for pediatric solid tumors, its indications had been off‐label in the USA, EU and Japan. Therefore, we conducted a phase 1/2 trial of IRI monotherapy in a registration‐directed setting.

Methods

Children aged 2–18 years with solid tumors who were either refractory to or relapsed after standard chemotherapy were enrolled. Phase 1 was a conventional dose escalation study to determine the dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) and the recommended dose. IRI was given i.v. on days 1, 2, 3 and 8, 9, 10 in up to eight, 21 day cycles.

Results

The starting dose (40 mg/m2/day) was determined to be the recommended dose because the next higher dose level (45 mg/m2/day) resulted in two cases of DLT. Seventeen children (11 in phase 1 and six in phase 2) with a refractory solid tumor received IRI. Of the 12 patients treated with 40 mg/m2/day, seven (58.3%) achieved a stable disease condition for >8 weeks.

Conclusions

The RD of IRI in this treatment schedule was 40 mg/m2/day. IRI did not cause tumor shrinkage but might help to stabilize refractory pediatric solid tumors. Based on the accumulating evidence from international studies of the efficacy of IRI against refractory pediatric solid tumors, the Japanese regulatory authority approved its use for this indication in 2011.
Trunk exercise training improves muscle size, strength, and function in older adults: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shahtahmassebi Behnaz , Hebert Jeffrey J. , Hecimovich Mark , Fairchild Timothy J.
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a multimodal exercise program to increase trunk muscle morphology and strength in older individuals, and their associated changes in functional ability. Using a single‐blinded parallel‐group randomized controlled trial design, 64 older adults (≥60 years) were randomly allocated to a 12‐week exercise program comprising walking and balance exercises with or without trunk strengthening/motor control exercises; followed by a 6‐week walking‐only program (detraining; 32 per group). Trunk muscle morphology (ultrasound imaging), strength (isokinetic dynamometer), and functional ability and balance (6‐Minute Walk Test; 30 second Chair Stand Test; Sitting and Rising Test; Berg Balance Scale, Multi‐Directional Reach Test; Timed Up and Go; Four Step Square Test) were the primary outcome measures. Sixty‐four older adults (mean [SD]; age: 69.8 [7.5] years; 59.4% female) were randomized into two exercise groups. Trunk training relative to walking‐balance training increased (mean difference [95% CI]) the size of the rectus abdominis (2.08 [1.29, 2.89] cm2), lumbar multifidus (L4/L5:0.39 [0.16, 0.61] cm; L5/S1:0.31 [0.07, 0.55] cm), and the lateral abdominal musculature (0.63 [0.40, 0.85] cm); and increased trunk flexion (29.8 [4.40, 55.31] N), extension (37.71 [15.17, 60.25] N), and lateral flexion (52.30 [36.57, 68.02] N) strength. Trunk training relative to walking‐balance training improved 30‐second Chair Stand Test (5.90 [3.39, 8.42] repetitions), Sitting and Rising Test (1.23 [0.24, 2.23] points), Forward Reach Test (4.20 [1.89, 6.51] cm), Backward Reach Test (2.42 [0.33, 4.52] cm), and Timed Up and Go Test (−0.76 [−1.40, −0.13] seconds). Detraining led to some declines but all outcomes remained significantly improved when compared to pre‐training. These findings support the inclusion of trunk strengthening/motor control exercises as part of a multimodal exercise program for older adults.
The Power of Place? Testing the Geographic Determinants of African‐American and White Voter Turnout*
Authors: Zingher Joshua N. , Moore Eric M.
Published: March 2019

Objective

This article evaluates the geographic determinants of both white and African‐American voter turnout in presidential elections. We argue that perceptions of threat posed by African Americans influence white turnout, although the possibility of interracial contact can ameliorate these attitudes. Conversely, we contend the size of the co‐racial population and segregation drives variations in African‐American turnout.

Method

We utilize geographic information systems (ArcGIS) mapping software in conjunction with Census and turnout data from the state of Louisiana. We test our hypotheses using a series of hierarchical linear regressions.

Results

We find that African‐American turnout is highest in parishes where African Americans represent a majority and segregation levels are low. White turnout is highest among whites in racially segregated, predominately white precincts.

Conclusion

We conclude that different demographic factors drive variations in white and African‐American turnout.
Platelet transfusion thresholds in premature neonates (PlaNeT‐2 trial)
Authors: Estcourt L. J.
Published: March 2019

Clinical question

Does transfusing platelets to preterm infants (< 34 weeks) at a higher platelet count threshold count (< 50 x 109/L) reduce the risk of major bleeding or death compared to only transfusing platelets when the platelet count drops below 25 x 109/L.

Evidence from trial

Preterm infants with a low platelet count who were transfused platelets at the higher platelet count threshold had a higher risk of dying or having a major bleed than those who were not. The reasons why this occurred are currently unclear.
Prevention of hemolytic transfusion reactions with intravenous immunoglobulin prophylaxis in U– patients with anti‐U
Authors: Win Nay , Almusawy Muhsin , Fitzgerald Loraine , Hannah Guy , Bullock Tom
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

The U– phenotype is extremely rare and is found predominantly in black African populations at a frequency of between 0.2 and 1.7%. In European populations, U– units are therefore rare, with limited availability in the United Kingdom. Anti‐U is clinically significant and is known to cause hemolytic transfusion reactions (HTRs) and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. It has been suggested that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) may be considered as an option among supportive therapy for urgent transfusion when clinically significant antigen‐matched units are not available. We report three cases with anti‐U transfused with least‐incompatible RBC units, their outcomes, and their clinical management.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Intravenous immunoglobulin was prescribed when least‐incompatible units must be issued in patients with anti‐U to ameliorate acute HTR and prevent the development of delayed HTR. We report the outcome of these cases.

RESULTS

Of the case reports described, one patient with weak anti‐U developed a delayed HTR after transfusion with incompatible units due to an anamnestic response. Two additional patients are described, with the use of IVIG as a precautionary measure to prevent the development of HTRs when transfused with antigen‐positive incompatible units. No acute HTRs or delayed HTRs were noted upon follow‐up.

CONCLUSION

U– units are not always readily available and transfusion support requires close collaborative working among a multidisciplinary team. Transfusion with antigen‐positive incompatible units with IVIG cover both ameliorates acute HTRs and prevents the development of delayed HTRs.
Risk factors, characteristics, and outcomes of acute respiratory distress syndrome in dogs and cats: 54 cases
Authors: Boiron Ludivine , Hopper Kate , Borchers Angela
Published: March 2019

Objective

To characterize the clinical features of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), risk factors, and outcome in dogs and cats. The study also aimed to evaluate the current veterinary criteria for the diagnosis of ARDS by comparison of clinical diagnostic criteria with necropsy findings.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Fifty‐four client‐owned animals, 46 dogs and 8 cats.

Interventions

Medical records were reviewed for patients with the diagnosis of ARDS based on previously published clinical criteria or necropsy diagnosis. Signalment, clinical findings, and outcome were recorded.

Measurements and Main Results

Animals were grouped according to a clinical or necropsy diagnosis: 43/54 (80%) were diagnosed with ARDS based on clinical criteria (group 1) and 11/54 (20%) were diagnosed with ARDS based on necropsy only (group 2). In group 1, 22/43 (51%) had a necropsy, which confirmed ARDS in 12/22 (54%). Direct (pulmonary) causes of ARDS were more common than indirect causes in dogs, while cats had a similar occurrence of direct and indirect causes. The most common risk factors identified in dogs were aspiration pneumonia (42%), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) (29%), and shock (29%). All cats diagnosed clinically with ARDS had SIRS with or without sepsis. Of the animals with a clinical diagnosis of ARDS, 49% received mechanical ventilation and 58% received treatment (with or without mechanical ventilation) for 24 hours or longer. The overall case fatality rate was 84% in dogs and 100% in cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

As described in human literature, pneumonia was the most common risk factor in dogs with ARDS, whereas it was SIRS for the cat population. The high mortality rate and discrepancy between the clinical diagnosis and necropsy findings may highlight limitations in the clinical criteria for the diagnosis of ARDS and treatment in dogs and cats.
Acute barium poisoning in a dog after ingestion of handheld fireworks (party sparklers)
Authors: Stanley Monique K. , Kelers Kylie , Boller Elise , Boller Manuel
Published: March 2019

Objective

To report a case of acute barium poisoning in a dog subsequent to ingestion of a common handheld pyrotechnic (sparkler).

Case summary

A 5‐year‐old female neutered German Shorthaired Pointer presented with acute onset of generalized flaccid muscle paralysis and fasciculations, ptyalism, and an irregular heart rhythm. Marked hypokalemia (1.9 mmol/L [mEq/L]; reference range [3.5–5.8 mmol/L [mEq/L]), acidemia (pH 7.20; reference range 7.38–7.44), and hypoventilation (PvCO2 55 mm Hg; reference range 40–50 mm Hg) were present on admission. Treatment consisted of fluid therapy, aggressive IV potassium chloride supplementation, gastric lavage, and oral magnesium sulfate administration. Based on history and clinical presentation, barium intoxication after ingestion of handheld firework (sparklers) was suspected and a serum sample was submitted for barium analysis. The serum barium concentration determined by inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry was 2,000 μg/L, a 3 orders of magnitude elevation above previously reported normal values in dogs. Within 18 hours of admission, the clinical signs resolved and the blood potassium concentration normalized. The animal was discharged home 36 hours after admission. On follow‐up performed after 1 and 5 years, no health issues were apparent.

New information provided

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of acute, life‐threatening barium toxicosis characterized by flaccid paralysis, acidemia, and severe hypokalemia occurring in a dog after ingestion of a popular pyrotechnic (sparkler) containing barium nitrate. Clinical signs may resolve within 24 hours with appropriate supportive care including aggressive potassium supplementation and chelation therapy.