bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiodynamic state is associated with systemic inflammation and fatal acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Praktiknjo Michael , Monteiro Sofia , Grandt Josephine , Kimer Nina , Madsen Jan L. , Werge Mikkel P. , William Peter , Brol Maximilian J. , Turco Laura , Schierwagen Robert , Chang Johannes , Klein Sabine , Uschner Frank E. , Welsch Christoph , Moreau Richard , Schepis Filippo , Bendtsen Flemming , Gluud Lise L. , Møller Søren , Trebicka Jonel
Published: March 2020

Background & Aims

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by high short‐term mortality and systemic inflammation (SI). Recently, different cardiodynamic states were shown to independently predict outcomes in cirrhosis. The relationship between cardiodynamic states, SI, and portal hypertension and their impact on ACLF development remains unclear. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the interplay of cardiodynamic state and SI on fatal ACLF development in cirrhosis.

Results

At inclusion, hemodynamic measures including cardiac index (CI) and hepatic venous pressure gradient of 208 patients were measured. Patients were followed prospectively for fatal ACLF development (primary endpoint). SI was assessed by proinflammatory markers such as interleukins (ILs) 6 and 8 and soluble IL‐33 receptor (sIL‐33R). Patients were divided according to CI (<3.2; 3.2‐4.2; >4.2 L/min/m2) in hypo‐ (n = 84), normo‐ (n = 69) and hyperdynamic group (n = 55). After a median follow‐up of 3 years, the highest risk of fatal ACLF was seen in hyperdynamic (35%) and hypodynamic patients (25%) compared with normodynamic (14%) (P = .011). Hyperdynamic patients showed the highest rate of SI. The detectable level of IL‐6 was an independent predictor of fatal ACLF development.

Conclusions

Cirrhotic patients with hyperdynamic and hypodynamic circulation have a higher risk of fatal ACLF. Therefore, the cardiodynamic state is strongly associated with SI, which is an independent predictor of development of fatal ACLF.
Robust XVA
Authors: Bichuch Maxim , Capponi Agostino , Sturm Stephan
Published: March 2020

We introduce an arbitrage‐free framework for robust valuation adjustments. An investor trades a credit default swap portfolio with a risky counterparty, and hedges credit risk by taking a position in defaultable bonds. The investor does not know the exact return rate of her counterparty's bond, but she knows it lies within an uncertainty interval. We derive both upper and lower bounds for the XVA process of the portfolio, and show that these bounds may be recovered as solutions of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The presence of collateralization and closeout payoffs leads to important differences with respect to classical credit risk valuation. The value of the super‐replicating portfolio cannot be directly obtained by plugging one of the extremes of the uncertainty interval in the valuation equation, but rather depends on the relation between the XVA replicating portfolio and the closeout value throughout the life of the transaction. Our comparative statics analysis indicates that credit contagion has a nonlinear effect on the replication strategies and on the XVA.
Iodine status of breastfed infants and their mothers' breast milk iodine concentration
Authors: Petersen Erna , Thorisdottir Birna , Thorsdottir Inga , Gunnlaugsson Geir , Arohonka Petra , Erlund Iris , Gunnarsdottir Ingibjörg
Published: March 2020

Iodine is an essential nutrient for growth and development during infancy. Data on iodine status of exclusively (EBF) and partially breastfed (PBF) infants as well as breast milk iodine concentration (BMIC) are scarce. We aimed to assess (a) infant iodine nutrition at the age of 5.5 months by measuring urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in EBF (n = 32) and PBF (n = 28) infants and (b) mothers' breast milk iodine concentration (n = 57). Sixty mother–infant pairs from three primary health care centres in Reykjavik and vicinities provided urine and breast milk samples for iodine analysis and information on mothers' habitual diet. The mother–infant pairs were participants of the IceAge2 study, which focuses on factors contributing to infant growth and development, including body composition and breast‐milk energy content. The median (25th–75th percentiles) UIC was 152 (79–239) μg/L, with no significant difference between EBF and PBF infants. The estimated median iodine intake ranged from 52 to 86 μg/day, based on urinary data (assuming an average urine volume of 300–500 ml/day and UIC from the present study). The median (25th–75th percentiles) BMIC was 84 (48–114) μg/L. It is difficult to conclude whether iodine status is adequate in the present study, as no ranges for median UIC reflecting optimal iodine nutrition exist for infants. However, the results add important information to the relatively sparse literature on UIC, BMIC, and iodine intake of breastfed infants.
Combining genome‐wide association study and FST‐based approaches to identify targets of Borrelia‐mediated selection in natural rodent hosts
Authors: Cornetti Luca , Tschirren Barbara
Published: March 2020

Recent advances in high‐throughput sequencing technologies provide opportunities to gain novel insights into the genetic basis of phenotypic trait variation. Yet to date, progress in our understanding of genotype–phenotype associations in nonmodel organisms in general and natural vertebrate populations in particular has been hampered by small sample sizes typically available for wildlife populations and a resulting lack of statistical power, as well as a limited ability to control for false‐positive signals. Here we propose to combine a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) and FST‐based approach with population‐level replication to partly overcome these limitations. We present a case study in which we used this approach in combination with genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data to identify genomic regions associated with Borrelia afzelii resistance or susceptibility in the natural rodent host of this Lyme disease‐causing spirochete, the bank vole (Myodes glareolus). Using this combined approach we identified four consensus SNPs located in exonic regions of the genes Slc26a4, Tns3, Wscd1 and Espnl, which were significantly associated with the voles’ Borrelia infectious status within and across populations. Functional links between host responses to bacterial infections and most of these genes have previously been demonstrated in other rodent systems, making them promising new candidates for the study of evolutionary host responses to Borrelia emergence. Our approach is applicable to other systems and may facilitate the identification of genetic variants underlying disease resistance or susceptibility, as well as other ecologically relevant traits, in wildlife populations.
Regional assemblages shaped by historical and contemporary factors: Evidence from a species‐rich insect group
Authors: Hao Mengdi , Jin Qian , Meng Guanliang , Yang Caiqing , Yang Shenzhou , Shi Zhiyong , Tang Min , Liu Shanlin , Li Yinan , Zhang Dan , Su Xu , Shih Chungkun , Sun Yiran , Zhou Xin , Zhang Ai‐bing
Published: March 2020

Understanding diversity patterns requires accounting for the roles of both historical and contemporary factors in the assembly of communities. Here, we compared diversity patterns of two moth assemblages sampled from Taihang and Yanshan mountains in Northern China and performed ancestral range reconstructions using the Multi‐State Speciation and Extinction model, to track the origins of these patterns. Further, we estimated diversification rates of the two moth assemblages and explored the effects of contemporary ecological factors. From 7,788 specimens we identified 835 species belonging to 23 families, using both DNA barcode analysis and morphology. Moths in Yanshan mountains showed higher species diversity than in Taihang mountains. Ancestral range analysis indicated Yanshan as the origin, with significant historical dispersals from Yanshan to Taihang. Asymmetrical diversification, population expansion, along with frequent and considerable gene flow were detected between communities. Moreover, dispersal limitation or the joint effect of environment filtering and dispersal limitation were inferred as main driving forces shaping current diversity patterns. In summary, we demonstrate that a multiscale (community, population and species level) analysis incorporating both historical and contemporary factors can be useful in delineating factors contributing to community assembly and patterning in diversity.
Mindfulness for undergraduate health and social care professional students: Findings from a qualitative scoping review using the 3P model
Authors: Crowther Lara Louise , Robertson Noelle , Anderson Elizabeth Susan
Published: March 2020

Context

With many health and social care schools offering mindfulness training (MT) there is a need for deeper understanding about pedagogical issues. Despite encouraging findings showing relationships between MT and student stress reduction, there is little qualitative synthesis of the literature about best principles for teaching and learning.

Methods

We report on a qualitative scoping review using the stages of Arksey and O’Malley's framework. The search identified papers from MEDLINE, PsychINFO, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) and SCOPUS over 15 years. The included papers were synthesised using the 3P model of teaching and learning to explore current MT for presage (teaching set‐up), process (teaching delivery) and product (outcomes) factors.

Results

A total of 16 articles were included in the review. There was a lack of consensus on definition of MT, facilitator training and the intervention used. The majority of studies involved small self‐selected, mainly female cohorts. For the set‐up (presage factors), the majority of curricula included MT for stress management and well‐being, delivered in the early years. Providing appropriate facilitators was a concern, whereas process factors revealed enormous variability in delivery. Few studies had formal assessment, although many had outcome evaluation measures (product factors).

Conclusions

The qualitative review has highlighted additional benefits from MT aside from stress reduction; most noticeably, student self‐awareness, peer cohesion and group support, ability to attend to patients, and student insights into health and social education culture. Seeking presage, process and product factors has illuminated variability in how MT is being adapted within health and social care curricula. This review highlights the next steps and recommendations for the future.
Effective virtual patient simulators for medical communication training: A systematic review
Authors: Lee Jihyun , Kim Hyungsin , Kim Kwan Hoon , Jung Daeun , Jowsey Tanisha , Webster Craig S.
Published: March 2020

Context

Despite the growing use of virtual patients (VPs) in medical education, few studies have explored the features and effectiveness of VP‐based medical communication skills training. We undertook a systematic review to summarise the design and evaluation of VP‐based medical communication skills training systems in order to identify features of successful cases.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched four databases for studies published between 2006 and 2018. Using a refined classification scheme, we extracted data on instructional design (scenario and instructional intervention), technological design (modality and interaction), and evaluation (user experience, learning effectiveness and evaluator). We assessed the quality of studies using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI) and the QualSyst standard assessment criteria.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included for review. Of these, 85.7% (n = 12) were quantitative and 71.4% (n = 10) involved undergraduate students. The most common VP training scenario was history taking followed by the delivery of bad news. Diverse instructional interventions, including tutorials, learning activities, and feedback, were embedded in the VPs. The first‐person perspective animated within‐screen size VP was a popular technological feature. Most evaluations concerned the reality of simulation (for user experience) and skill in expressing empathy (as a learning outcome). Of the eight comparative studies, half reported significant attitude or skill improvements in the VP group. The distinct features of VPs shown to be effective were well‐designed instructional interventions (eg, a pre‐activity with a protocol‐informed tutorial), and post‐activity (eg, debrief or reflection), scaffolding and human feedback, but not system feedback.

Conclusions

Evidence‐based VP training can enable students to gain communication skills in a safe and affordable learning environment. Elaborate technology alone cannot guarantee effective learning, but evidence‐based instructional interventions can facilitate its optimal use and bring about better learning outcomes.
The nature of learning from simulation: Now I know it, now I'll do it, I'll work on that
Authors: Shariff Farhana , Hatala Rose , Regehr Glenn
Published: March 2020

Context

Ongoing learning in complex clinical environments requires health professionals to assess their own performance, manage their learning, and modify their practices based on self‐monitored progress. Self‐regulated learning (SRL) theory suggests that although learners may be capable of such learning, they often need guidance to enact it effectively. Debriefings following simulation may be an ideal time to support learners' use of SRL in targeted areas, but the extent to which they are optimally fostering these practices has not been examined.

Methods

A qualitative study informed by grounded theory methodology was conducted in the context of three interprofessional in situ trauma simulations at our level 1 trauma centre. A total of 18 participants were interviewed both immediately and 5‐6 weeks after the simulation experience. Transcripts were analysed using an iterative constant comparative approach to explore concepts and themes regarding the nature of learning from and after simulation.

Results

During initial interviews, there were many examples of acquired content knowledge and straightforward practice changes that might not require ongoing SRL to enact well in practice. However, even for skills identified as needing to be ‘worked on,’ SRL strategies were lacking. At follow‐up interviews, some participants had evolved more specific learning goals and rudimentary plans for implementation and improvement, but suggested this was prompted by the study interview questions rather than the simulation debriefing itself.

Conclusions

Overall, participants did not engage in fulsome development of SRL plans based on the simulation and debriefing; however, there were elements of SRL present, particularly after participants were given time to reflect on the interview questions and their own goals. This suggests that simulation training can support the use of SRL. However, debriefing approaches might be better optimised to take full advantage of the opportunity to encourage and foster SRL in practice after the simulation is over.
Gastrointestinal vascular permeability changes following spinal cord injury
Authors: Herrera Juan , Bockhorst Kurt , Bhattarai Deepa , Uray Karen
Published: March 2020

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction is observed clinically after spinal cord injury (SCI) and contributes to the diminished long‐term quality of life. Our study examined the acute and chronic GI vascular changes that occur following SCI. We demonstrated that the GI vascular tract in SCI mice becomes compromised during the acute phase of injury and persists into the chronic phase of injury.

Methods

Gastrointestinal vasculature permeability was measured using dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE MRI) at 48 hours, and 2 and 4 weeks following contusion spinal cord injury. Angiopoietin‐1, a vascular stabilizing protein, was administered intravenously following injury. Intestinal contractile activity assessments were performed following the last imaging session.

Key results

Our results indicated that a single administration of Ang‐1 reduced vascular permeability at 48 hours but the effect was only transient. However, when the treatment paradigm was changed from a single administration to multiple administrations of Ang‐1 following contusion injury, our DCE MRI data indicated a significant decrease in GI vascular permeability 4 weeks after injury compared with vehicle control treated animals. This improved GI vascular permeability was associated with improved sustained intestinal contractile activity. We also demonstrated that Ang‐1 reduced the expression of sICAM‐1 in the ileum compared with the saline‐treated group.

Conclusions and inferences

We show that the GI vasculature is compromised in the acute and chronic phase of injury following spinal contusion. Our results also indicate that multiple administrations of Ang‐1 can attenuate GI vascular permeability, possibly reduce inflammation, and improve sustained agonist‐induced contraction compared with saline treatment.
Comprehensive 3D phenotyping reveals continuous morphological variation across genetically diverse sorghum inflorescences
Authors: Li Mao , Shao Mon‐Ray , Zeng Dan , Ju Tao , Kellogg Elizabeth A. , Topp Christopher N.
Published: March 2020

Inflorescence architecture in plants is often complex and challenging to quantify, particularly for inflorescences of cereal grasses. Methods for capturing inflorescence architecture and for analyzing the resulting data are limited to a few easily captured parameters that may miss the rich underlying diversity.

Here, we apply X‐ray computed tomography combined with detailed morphometrics, offering new imaging and computational tools to analyze three‐dimensional inflorescence architecture. To show the power of this approach, we focus on the panicles of Sorghum bicolor, which vary extensively in numbers, lengths, and angles of primary branches, as well as the three‐dimensional shape, size, and distribution of the seed.

We imaged and comprehensively evaluated the panicle morphology of 55 sorghum accessions that represent the five botanical races in the most common classification system of the species, defined by genetic data. We used our data to determine the reliability of the morphological characters for assigning specimens to race and found that seed features were particularly informative.

However, the extensive overlap between botanical races in multivariate trait space indicates that the phenotypic range of each group extends well beyond its overall genetic background, indicating unexpectedly weak correlation between morphology, genetic identity, and domestication history.
Are primary/elementary school‐based interventions effective in preventing/ameliorating excess weight gain? A systematic review of systematic reviews
Authors: Goldthorpe Joanna , Epton Tracy , Keyworth Chris , Calam Rachel , Armitage Christopher J.
Published: March 2020

This systematic review of systematic reviews addresses a current gap in evidence by synthesizing findings relating to weight management interventions set entirely in primary/elementary schools targeting, diet, and/or physical activity as key strategies. Eight databases were searched for systematic reviews of trials of school‐based interventions targeting children aged 4 to 12 years that looked at biometric and behavioral outcomes. From the 10 selected systematic reviews, we found that interventions designed to promote physical activity or reduce sedentary behavior were most effective for weight loss. Interventions designed to improve diet and nutrition had a small effect on behavioral and cognitive outcomes, and these outcomes could be enhanced through the use of experiential learning. The most effective interventions involved a range of stakeholders in the development process and included parents and families in implementation. This systematic review of systematic reviews offers evidence‐based guidance for the development and implementation of multistrategy weight‐management interventions in primary/elementary schools.
Comparison of the effect of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy on remission of type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Borgeraas Heidi , Hofsø Dag , Hertel Jens Kristoffer , Hjelmesæth Jøran
Published: March 2020

Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. This study aims to compare the effects of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on remission of T2DM. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for studies published between database inception and 21 November 2019. A meta‐analysis, using a random effects model, was performed to calculate relative risk (RR) of T2DM remission between the groups in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Of 2650 records identified, 12 records from 10 different RCTs were finally included. The studies comprised 705 patients with follow‐up from 1 to 5 years. The remission rate of T2DM at 1 year was higher among those undergoing RYGB (156/276, 57%) compared with those undergoing SG (128/275, 47%), RR (95% CI) 1.20 (1.00‐1.45), P = .047, I2 = 24.9%, moderate‐quality evidence. Among studies with 2‐ to 5‐year follow‐up, there was no difference in remission rates between the RYGB (132/263, 50%) and SG (121/266, 46%) groups, RR 1.06 (0.94‐1.20), P = .34, I2 = 0.0%, low‐quality evidence. RYGB resulted in a higher rate of T2DM remission compared with SG after 1 year. The T2DM remission rates did not differ in studies with 2‐ to 5‐year follow‐up.
Single Ilioinguinal Approach to Treat Complex Acetabular Fractures with Quadrilateral Plate Involvement: Outcomes Using a Novel Dynamic Anterior Plate–Screw System
Authors: Wu Haiyang , Shang Ranran , Cai Xianhua , Liu Ximing , Song Chengjing , Chen Yanzhao
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel fixation technique referred to as the dynamic anterior plate–screw system for quadrilateral plate (DAPSQ) for complex acetabular fractures with quadrilateral plate involvement through the single ilioinguinal approach.

Methods

A total of 32 patients with acetabular fractures, selected between January 2009 and March 2016, were managed by DAPSQ with “quadrilateral screws” through single ilioinguinal approach. The primary outcomes measure was the reduction quality evaluated according to the Matta radiological criteria, and the functional outcomes were evaluated by the modified Merle d'Aubigné score at the last follow‐up. Secondary outcomes were postoperative complications and intraoperative conditions included, for instance, operation time and blood loss.

Results

Of these 32 consecutive patients, 19, 9, and 4 were classified as both columns, anterior column posterior hemi‐transverse, and T‐shaped fractures, respectively, and with an average of 47 months’ follow‐up. Anatomic reduction was obtained in 19 cases (59%), imperfect reduction in 9 cases (28%), and poor reduction in 4 cases (13%). The modified Merle d'Aubigné scores were excellent in 15 cases (47%), good in 13 cases (41%), fair in 2 cases (6%), and poor in 2 cases (6%). Three cases sustained temporary lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injuries. One patient had a superficial wound infection that resolved after debridement. Five patients had posttraumatic arthritis; one of them underwent total hip arthroplasty at 46 months. No cases had quadrilateral screws entering the hip joint.

Conclusion

The use of DAPSQ with quadrilateral screws is an effective and safe choice for complex acetabular fractures with quadrilateral plate involvement through the single ilioinguinal approach.
Talking the talk, but not walking the walk: A comparison of self‐reported and observed prosocial behaviour
Authors: Awan Sahar , Esteve Marc , van Witteloostuijn Arjen
Published: March 2020

The claim that Public Service Motivation (PSM) is an antecedent of prosocial behaviour has often been empirically tested and supported. However, closer inspection of this literature reveals large disparities in relating the two constructs. One reason that could explain such differences is that the relationship between PSM and prosocial behaviours has been primarily tested using self‐reported cross‐sectional, single‐rater and same‐survey data. While all of these are widely used methodological approaches in social sciences, they are also susceptible to potential biases. We conduct two comparative studies to re‐examine this relationship. Study 1 utilizes self‐reported cross‐sectional, single‐rater and same‐survey data linking PSM and prosocial behaviour, revealing a positive relationship with PSM's Compassion dimension. Study 2 involves observing actual prosocial behaviour in a real‐life setting. Then, the correlation between PSM and prosocial behaviour disappears. We conclude by discussing the possible reasons that could lead to the differences found across the two studies.
PANOMICS meets germplasm
Authors: Weckwerth Wolfram , Ghatak Arindam , Bellaire Anke , Chaturvedi Palak , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: March 2020

Genotyping‐by‐sequencing has enabled approaches for genomic selection to improve yield, stress resistance and nutritional value. More and more resource studies are emerging providing 1000 and more genotypes and millions of SNPs for one species covering a hitherto inaccessible intraspecific genetic variation. The larger the databases are growing, the better statistical approaches for genomic selection will be available. However, there are clear limitations on the statistical but also on the biological part. Intraspecific genetic variation is able to explain a high proportion of the phenotypes, but a large part of phenotypic plasticity also stems from environmentally driven transcriptional, post‐transcriptional, translational, post‐translational, epigenetic and metabolic regulation. Moreover, regulation of the same gene can have different phenotypic outputs in different environments. Consequently, to explain and understand environment‐dependent phenotypic plasticity based on the available genotype variation we have to integrate the analysis of further molecular levels reflecting the complete information flow from the gene to metabolism to phenotype. Interestingly, metabolomics platforms are already more cost‐effective than NGS platforms and are decisive for the prediction of nutritional value or stress resistance. Here, we propose three fundamental pillars for future breeding strategies in the framework of Green Systems Biology: (i) combining genome selection with environment‐dependent PANOMICS analysis and deep learning to improve prediction accuracy for marker‐dependent trait performance; (ii) PANOMICS resolution at subtissue, cellular and subcellular level provides information about fundamental functions of selected markers; (iii) combining PANOMICS with genome editing and speed breeding tools to accelerate and enhance large‐scale functional validation of trait‐specific precision breeding.
The Impact of Chain Organization Size on Efficiency and Quality of Affiliated Facilities—Implications for Multi‐Unit Organizational Forms
Authors: Dreyfus David , Nair Anand , Talluri Srinivas
Published: March 2020

This study investigates how the affiliation of dialysis facilities within chain organizations of varying sizes impacts efficiency and quality outcomes of these facilities. We develop our hypotheses by building on the literature base that relates to organizational learning. The paper uses a panel dataset spanning the years 2008–2013. The efficiency of the dialysis facilities is operationalized by means of a data envelopment analysis model. This model considers the number of treatments in the dialysis facility as the output variable. The model uses four inputs—number of dialysis stations, number of full‐time equivalents of physicians, number of full‐time equivalents of clinical staff, and the number of employee hours per week at a dialysis facility. Quality is operationalized by considering facilities’ performance scores on three measures developed by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services. The findings point to distinct effects of chain organization size on quality and efficiency performance of dialysis facilities. Specifically, the results obtained by analyzing a dynamic panel data model show that chain organization size has an inverse U‐shaped curvilinear effect on quality outcomes and a U‐shaped curvilinear effect on efficiency. The findings suggest that dialysis facilities affiliated with chain organizations of varying sizes experience learning effects and causal ambiguities depending on the specific performance measure under consideration. We discuss the implications of our findings for theory and practice and present directions for future research.
Automated ventilator technology: Some answers and more questions
Authors: Joosten Simon A. , Landry Shane A. , Hamilton Garun S.
Published: March 2020

See related article
Selecting a Scale for Spatial Confounding Adjustment
Authors: Keller Joshua P. , Szpiro Adam A.
Published: March 2020

Unmeasured, spatially structured factors can confound associations between spatial environmental exposures and health outcomes. Adding flexible splines to a regression model is a simple approach for spatial confounding adjustment, but the spline degrees of freedom do not provide an easily interpretable spatial scale. We describe a method for quantifying the extent of spatial confounding adjustment in terms of the Euclidean distance at which variation is removed. We develop this approach for confounding adjustment with splines and using Fourier and wavelet filtering. We demonstrate differences in the spatial scales that these bases can represent and provide a comparison of methods for selecting the amount of confounding adjustment. We find the best performance for selecting the amount of adjustment by using an information criterion evaluated on an outcome model without exposure. We apply this method to spatial adjustment in an analysis of fine particulate matter and blood pressure in a cohort of US women.
Radiographic analysis of dental maturation in children with amelogenesis imperfecta: A case‐control study
Authors: Gabardo Giovana , Maciel José Vinícius Bolognesi , Franco Ademir , de Lima Antonio Adilson Soares , da Costa Thays Regina Ferreira , Fernandes Ângela
Published: March 2020

Aims

To assess dental maturation in children with amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) and compare their estimated dental age with the age of non‐AI children.

Methods and results

Panoramic radiographs of children with (n = 27) and without (n = 54) AI were retrospectively collected in the ratio of 1:2. The former consisted of case group, while the latter figured as control group. Both groups were paired by sex and age (P > .05). Dental maturation was assessed in each radiograph using Demirjian's staging technique and Willems’ method. Intra‐ and interexaminer reproducibility reached >0.8. The mean estimated dental age in subjects with AI was 12.5 ± 2.69 years, while in subjects without AI it was 11.73 ± 2.48 years (P = .21). The comparison of mean chronological (12.26 ± 2.6 years) and estimated dental age (12.5 ± 2.69 years) in subjects with AI did not reveal statistically significant differences (P = .38).

Conclusion

This study highlights the similarity of dental maturation between subjects with and without AI from the radiographic perspective of crown‐root formation.
Black Women's experiences of sexual assault and disclosure: Insights from the margins
Authors: Slatton Brittany C. , Richard April L.
Published: March 2020

Black women experience higher rates of sexual assault or rape than their White counterparts and the U.S. Department of Justice finds only one Black woman out of 15 will report her rape. This article reviews the literature on the ways in which Black women's sexual assault disclosure experiences are framed by their unique social space at the margins of society due to systemic oppression based on race, gender, and class (Settles, Pratt‐Hyatt, and Buchanan). We situate this review around three major areas of marginalization: (a) the delegitimization of Black women as victims of rape, (b) the social construction of Black women as inordinately strong, and (c) the sanctioning of intraracial sexual assault disclosure. Despite a call for action by Angela Davis in 1985, Black women's unique and varied intersectional experiences around sexual assault and disclosure are understudied. We implore scholars to continue this important research and conclude this article with insights on future research and activism.
Evaluation of matrix effects and prolonged storage on Trypanosoma cruzi serology in blood donor specimens
Authors: Whitman Jeffrey D. , Townsend Rebecca L. , Bern Caryn , Stramer Susan L.
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Blood products appropriately stored for research protocols provide an invaluable resource for amassing large numbers of specimens for clinical research, especially for low‐prevalence diseases, such as Chagas disease.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We evaluated serologic results of 500 blood donation plasma component (PC) specimens confirmed as Trypanosoma cruzi seropositive by Food and Drug Administration–recommended algorithms. Subsets were retested using the T. cruzi enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; Ortho Clinical Diagnostics) and PRISM Chagas assay (Abbott Laboratories). Initial results for vacutainer‐derived venous serum (VS) and PC specimens with matching results were also compared.

RESULTS

On initial testing, matrix effects between VS and PC were observed with ELISA demonstrating a mean change in the PC of −0.39 signal/cutoff ratio (S/CO) (p < 0.0001) and PRISM of +0.35 S/CO (p = 0.008). In matched PC specimens between current (retest) versus initial test results, both ELISA and PRISM had a decrease in mean S/COs of −0.76 (p < 0.0001) and − 0.90 (p < 0.0001), respectively. When the change in S/CO for matched PC specimens was analyzed as a function of time, PRISM showed no significant S/CO decrease (Y = −0.002941*X − 0.6250; p = 0.20; R2 = 0.005), whereas the ELISA showed a significant S/CO decrease in more recently collected specimens (Y = 0.007183*X‐1.516; p < 0.0001; R2 = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

While T. cruzi serology results showed minor but significant differences in matrix effects between initial VS and PC testing values, and minor changes in PC test values over time, our data validate the use of PC specimens for head‐to‐head test performance comparison studies with the caveat that these limitations are assessed for appropriate study design.
Preliminary report of postoperative complications of phacoemulsification in Pugs: A multicenter retrospective study of 32 cases
Authors: Boss Christine , La Croix Noelle , Moore Phillip A. , Wilkie David A. , Maggio Federica , Wiggans Kenneth Tomo , Maggs David J. , Kaiser Kevin , Sapienza John S. , Kim Kay , Strauss Rachel , van der Woerdt Alexandra , Schmidt Gretchen
Published: March 2020

Objective

To compare complication rates and visual outcomes following phacoemulsification in Pugs versus dogs of other breeds.

Animals studied

Thirty‐two pure‐bred Pugs (55 eyes) and 32 dogs of other breeds (56 eyes) undergoing phacoemulsification.

Procedures

Multi‐institutional retrospective medical record review of perioperative factors, postoperative complications, and visual outcomes. The reference population of dogs of varying breeds included surgical cases following each Pug case at the same institutions. Perioperative risk factors and postoperative complication rates were compared between the two populations.

Results

Pigmentary keratitis and diabetes mellitus were the most common preoperative comorbidities, found in 75% (P < .001) and 72% (P = .12) of Pugs, respectively. No perioperative factors were significantly associated with postoperative complications in Pugs. Postoperative complication rates were similar between groups; however, the most common complication in Pugs was corneal ulceration (15% of operated eyes), whereas glaucoma was most common in the reference population (13% of operated eyes). Three months postoperatively, vision was preserved in 91% of eyes of Pugs (50/55) and 95% of the reference population (53/56). One year postoperatively, 80% (32/40) of Pug eyes and 82% (28/34) of eyes in the reference population remained sighted.

Conclusions

Comorbidities and complications of cataract surgery in Pugs of this study demonstrate a predisposition for corneal disease. This highlights the importance of preoperative evaluation of factors associated with PK and corneal clarity, and postoperative monitoring for corneal ulceration in this breed.
Assessment of tumor enhancement by contrast‐enhanced CT in solid tumor‐bearing dogs treated with toceranib phosphate
Authors: Takagi Satoshi , Yamazaki Hiroki , Izumi Yusuke , Hanazono Kiwamu , Hoshino Yuki , Hosoya Kenji
Published: March 2020

In humans, contrast‐enhanced CT (CECT) has been used to indirectly assess the antiangiogenic effects demonstrated by a number of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This retrospective, cross‐sectional study aimed to quantitatively evaluate changes in tumor contrast‐enhancement (CE) using CECT in solid tumor‐bearing dogs treated with toceranib phosphate (TOC). The changes in tumor size and CE were measured using the Hounsfield unit (HU) scale in CECT images before TOC treatment and between 30 and 90 days after initiating the treatment. Among the 36 dogs treated with TOC, eight (22.2%) showed a partial response, 22 (61.1%) showed stable disease, and six (16.7%) showed progressive disease. Thirty (83.3%) of 36 dogs showed a decrease in tumor CE (median: −20%, range: −1% to −48%) after initiating the treatment. The results indicated that tumor CE and size changes were observed in tumor‐bearing dogs that were treated with TOC; however, tumor CE was not significantly correlated with tumor regression. We suggest that these results could serve as pilot data to evaluate the antiangiogenic effects associated with TOC.
Human cerebrovascular responses to diving are not related to facial cooling
Authors: AlSalahi Sultan E. , Braz Igor D. , Ahmed Amar , Junejo Rehan T. , Fisher James P.
Published: March 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does facial cooling‐mediated stimulation of cutaneous trigeminal afferents associated with the diving response increase cerebral blood flow or are factors associated with breath‐holding (e.g. arterial carbon dioxide accumulation, pressor response) more important in humans?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Physiological factors associated with breath‐holding such as arterial carbon dioxide accumulation and the pressor response, but not facial cooling (trigeminal nerve stimulation), make the predominant contribution to diving response‐mediated increases in cerebral blood flow in humans.

Diving evokes a pattern of physiological responses purported to preserve oxygenated blood delivery to vital organs such as the brain. We sought to uncouple the effects of trigeminal nerve stimulation on cerebral blood flow (CBF) from other modifiers associated with the diving response, such as apnoea and changes in arterial carbon dioxide tension. Thirty‐seven young healthy individuals participated in separate trials of facial cooling (FC, 3 min) and cold pressor test (CPT, 3 min) under poikilocapnic (Protocol 1) and isocapnic conditions (Protocol 2), facial cooling while either performing a breath‐hold (FC +BH) or breathing spontaneously for a matched duration (FC −BH) (Protocol 3), and BH during facial cooling (BH +FC) or without facial cooling (BH −FC) (Protocol 4). Under poikilocapnic conditions neither facial cooling nor CPT evoked a change in middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (MCA vmean; transcranial Doppler) (P > 0.05 vs. baseline). Under isocapnic conditions, facial cooling did not change MCA vmean (P > 0.05), whereas CPT increased MCA vmean by 13% (P < 0.05). Facial cooling with a concurrent BH markedly increased MCA vmean (Δ23%) and internal carotid artery blood flow (ICAQ; duplex Doppler ultrasound) (Δ26%) (P < 0.001), but no change in MCA vmean and ICAQ was observed when facial cooling was accompanied by spontaneous breathing (P > 0.05). Finally, MCA vmean and ICAQ were similarly increased by BH either with or without facial cooling. These findings suggest that physiological factors associated with BH, and not facial cooling (i.e. trigeminal nerve stimulation) per se, make the predominant contribution to increases in CBF during diving in humans.
Classification of Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) vocalizations
Authors: Brady Beth , Hedwig Daniela , Trygonis Vasilis , Gerstein Edmund
Published: March 2020

The vocal repertoire for the Florida manatee is quantitatively categorized from a sample of 1114 calls recorded from 3 different manatee habitats in Florida. First, manatee vocalizations were categorized into five call categories based on visual inspection of spectrograms and following descriptions provided in previous studies. Second, based on measurements of 17 acoustic parameters, the subjective classification scheme was validated using classification and regression trees (CARTs) and model-based cluster analysis paired with silhouette coefficients. CART analysis revealed that these five broad call categories can be successfully distinguished based on correct classification scores of 41.6%–62.5%. Silhouette coefficients determined that the manatee vocal repertoire is highly intergraded. This study supports and expands upon existing subjective categorization schemes by providing a quantifiable methodology for describing the Florida manatees' vocal repertoire. These findings contribute to the increasing number of studies suggesting many animal species vocal repertoires contain graded call types.
Relationships Between External- and Internal-Workload Variables in an Elite Female Netball Team and Between Playing Positions
Authors: Simpson Marni J. , Jenkins David G. , Scanlan Aaron T. , Kelly Vincent G.
Published: March 2020

Purpose: To examine relationships between external- and internal-workload variables in an elite female netball team, with consideration of positional differences. Methods: Nine elite female netball athletes had their weekly workloads monitored across their preseason and competition phases of a season. Internal workload was determined using summated heart-rate (HR) zones and session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE), whereas external workload was determined using inertial movement units and included absolute PlayerLoad (PL), relative PL (PL per minute), accelerations (ACCEL), decelerations (DECEL), jumps, changes of direction (COD), high-intensity events, medium-intensity events, low-intensity events, PL in the forward direction, PL in the sideways direction, and PL in the vertical direction. Relationships between external- and internal-workload variables in the team and relative to playing position were examined. Results: Across the team, the strongest external workloads that correlated with summated HR zones were PL (r = .65), COD (r = .64), ACCEL (r = .61), and DECEL (r = .61). The strongest external workloads that correlated with sRPE were COD (r = .79), followed by jumps (r = .76), ACCEL (r = .75), and DECEL (r = .75). For all positions, except-goal shooter, the strongest correlation was between PL and sRPE (r = .88–.94). In the goal-shooter position, the strongest correlation was between summated HR zones and DECEL (r = .89). Conclusions: The inertial movement unit-derived external-workload variables are strongly related to common internal-workload variables. In particular, COD and sRPE appear to provide a good monitoring combination of external and internal training loads for elite netball players.
New electrolyzer splits water on the cheap
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: March 2020

Devices that forgo expensive metals could turn renewable electricity into hydrogen
Realization of the kagome spin ice state in a frustrated intermetallic compound
Authors: Zhao Kan , Deng Hao , Chen Hua , Ross Kate A. , Petříček Vaclav , Günther Gerrit , Russina Margarita , Hutanu Vladimir , Gegenwart Philipp
Published: March 2020

Looking for a crystalline 2D spin ice

Spin ices—materials in which local magnetic spins respect “ice rules” similar to those in water ice—are typically three-dimensional. Two-dimensional (2D) ice rules can also be formulated and have been found to be satisfied in engineered nanomagnetic systems, usually referred to as artificial spin ices. Zhao
et al.
used neutron scattering and thermodynamic measurements to study a crystalline candidate for a 2D spin ice, the intermetallic compound HoAgGe. They found that at low temperatures, the local spins on the distorted kagome planes of this quasi-2D material respect 2D ice rules. Increasing the temperature led to a series of transitions consistent with theoretical expectations.

Science
, this issue p.
1218
MK-571, a Cysteinyl Leukotriene Receptor 1 Antagonist, Inhibits Hepatitis C Virus Replication
Authors: Ruiz Isaac , Nevers Quentin , Hernández Eva , Ahnou Nazim , Brillet Rozenn , Softic Laurent , Donati Flora , Berry Francois , Hamadat Sabah , Fourati Slim , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Ahmed-Belkacem Abdelhakim
Published: March 2020

The quinoline MK-571 is the most commonly used inhibitor of multidrug resistance protein-1 (MRP-1) but was originally developed as a cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 (CysLTR1) antagonist. While studying the modulatory effect of MRP-1 on anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) direct-acting antiviral (DAA) efficiency, we observed an unexpected anti-HCV effect of compound MK-571 alone. This anti-HCV activity was characterized in Huh7.5 cells stably harboring a subgenomic genotype 1b replicon. A dose-dependent decrease of HCV RNA levels was observed upon MK-571 administration, with a 50% effective concentration (EC
50
 ± standard deviation) of 9 ± 0.
ZN148 Is a Modular Synthetic Metallo-β-Lactamase Inhibitor That Reverses Carbapenem Resistance in Gram-Negative Pathogens
In Vivo
Authors: Samuelsen Ørjan , Åstrand Ove Alexander Høgmoen , Fröhlich Christopher , Heikal Adam , Skagseth Susann , Carlsen Trine Josefine Olsen , Leiros Hanna-Kirsti S. , Bayer Annette , Schnaars Christian , Kildahl-Andersen Geir , Lauksund Silje , Finke Sarah , Huber Sandra , Gjøen Tor , Andresen Adriana Magalhaes Santos , Økstad Ole Andreas , Rongved Pål
Published: March 2020

Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative pathogens are a critical public health threat and there is an urgent need for new treatments. Carbapenemases (β-lactamases able to inactivate carbapenems) have been identified in both serine β-lactamase (SBL) and metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) families. The recent introduction of SBL carbapenemase inhibitors has provided alternative therapeutic options. Unfortunately, there are no approved inhibitors of MBL-mediated carbapenem-resistance and treatment options for infections caused by MBL-producing Gram-negatives are limited.
Combination Therapy with Ibrexafungerp (Formerly SCY-078), a First-in-Class Triterpenoid Inhibitor of (1→3)-β-
d
-Glucan Synthesis, and Isavuconazole for Treatment of Experimental Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Petraitis Vidmantas , Petraitiene Ruta , Katragkou Aspasia , Maung Bo Bo Win , Naing Ethan , Kavaliauskas Povilas , Barat Stephen , Borroto-Esoda Katyna , Azie Nkechi , Angulo David , Walsh Thomas J.
Published: March 2020

Ibrexafungerp (formerly SCY-078) is a semisynthetic triterpenoid and potent (1→3)-β-
d
-glucan synthase inhibitor. We investigated the
in vitro
activity, pharmacokinetics, and
in vivo
efficacy of ibrexafungerp (SCY) alone and in combination with antimold triazole isavuconazole (ISA) against invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). The combination of ibrexafungerp and isavuconazole in
in vitro
studies resulted in additive and synergistic interactions against
Aspergillus
spp.