bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contact and communication with patients experiencing suicidal ideation: A qualitative study of nurses’ perspectives
Authors: Vandewalle Joeri , Beeckman Dimitri , Van Hecke Ann , Debyser Bart , Deproost Eddy , Verhaeghe Sofie
Published: June 2019

Aim

To uncover and understand the core elements of how nurses in psychiatric hospitals make contact with patients experiencing suicidal ideation.

Design

A qualitative study based on the principles of grounded theory was performed.

Methods

Nineteen nurses on wards of four psychiatric hospitals were interviewed between May 2017 – February 2018. The Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven was used to facilitate the constant comparison of data.

Findings

Nurses make contact with patients experiencing suicidal ideation by “creating conditions for open and genuine communication” while maintaining a focus on “developing an accurate and meaningful picture of patients”. These interconnected core elements represent nurses’ attention to relational processes like building trust as well as their predominant focus on assessing suicide risk. Nurses put other emphases in their contacts with patients depending on whether their approach is guided more by checking and controlling suicide risk or by acknowledging and connecting (with) the person.

Conclusion

The study enhances the conceptual understanding of how nurses on psychiatric wards can involve in compassionate and considerate contact and communication with patients experiencing suicidal ideation. These findings can be used to underpin the nurses’ role in and contribution to suicide prevention.

Impact

The core elements “creating conditions for open and genuine communication” while maintaining a focus on “developing an accurate and meaningful picture of patients” can inform policies for nursing practice and education that aim to preserve and improve the capacity of nurses to involve in compassionate and considerate contact and communication with patients experiencing suicidal ideation.
Development of the 6S Dialogue Tool to facilitate person‐centred palliative care
Authors: Henoch Ingela , Österlind Jane
Published: June 2019

Aims

To develop and psychometrically test the 6S Dialogue Tool.

Background

The 6S Dialogue Tool was elaborated to provide knowledge to nurses about patients’ preferences in congruence with the 6S person‐centred palliative care model, which includes the S‐concepts of self‐image, symptom relief, self‐determination, social relationships, synthesis and strategies. The tool needs to be scrutinized for appropriateness.

Design

A qualitative study investigating construct validity of the 6S Dialogue Tool.

Methods

Forty‐six patients in palliative care services in Sweden responded to 15 questions from May 2015 ‐ August 2016. Responses were analysed with qualitative content analysis.

Results

Six categories, capturing the meaning of the 6S‐concepts, were formulated: Maintaining everyday life; Challenges in everyday life; Maintaining control; Maintaining selected relationships; Appraisal of life; and Appraisal of the future.

Conclusion

The responses to the 6S Dialogue Tool questions reflect the intent of the 6S‐concepts. Nurses should integrate the 6S‐concepts and the questions in their approach to facilitate to co‐create meaningful palliative care in dialogue with the patient.

Impact

Patients’ preferences must be explored to co‐create palliative care in accordance with their own needs and beliefs. The 6S Dialogue Tool questions are suitable for obtaining patients’ preferences and could be used as an approach in palliative care. Patients, families and nurses will have the potential to co‐create palliative care and to improve possibilities for patients to have an appropriate death.
Integrative review; identifying the evidence base for policymaking and analysis in health care
Authors: Kennedy Catriona , O’Reilly Pauline , O’Connell Rhona , O’Leary Denise , Fealy Gerard , Hegarty Josephine‐Mary , Brady Anne‐Marie , Nicholson Emma , McNamara Martin , Casey Mary
Published: June 2019

Aim

The aim of this was to identify and synthesize the evidence underpinning the health policymaking process to inform the development of a health‐related policy analysis framework.

Design

A mixed methods review using “Best Fit” Framework synthesis.

Data Sources

PUBMED and CINAHL+ databases for English language papers published between March 2013 – March 2017.

Review Methods

Titles were screened, data abstracted and analysed by two authors at each stage. Findings from included studies were coded against six a priori categories which had been constructed through a preliminary literature review, consultation and consensus.

Results

Sixty‐eight papers were included. There exists empirical support for six key domains which require to be addressed in the policymaking and analysis process: (1) Context; (2) Process; (3) Content; (4) Stakeholder Consultation; (5) Implementation; and (6) Evaluation. Failure to contextualize and integrate these six domains in problem identification, policy analysis, strategy and policy development, policy enactment and policy implementation is problematic.

Conclusion

There is a need to test and refine the constructs linked to the policymaking cycle taking cognizance of the context where these are developed, implemented and evaluated.

Impact

This review makes a novel contribution to the synthesis of evidence to inform the policymaking and analysis process. Findings illuminate the complexity of policymaking, the competing pressures involved and the importance of the local, national and international context. These findings have international relevance and provide empirical support for key criteria to guide those involved in context specific policymaking and/or the analysis of existing policy.
MAGE genes: Prognostic indicators in AL amyloidosis patients
Authors: Liu Yang , Wen Lei , Ma Ling , Kang Ying , Liu Kai‐Yan , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Ruan Guo‐Rui , Lu Jin
Published: June 2019

A high frequency of MAGE‐CT (cancer testis) antigens are expressed in Multiple Myeloma (MM) patients; however, in other plasma cell dyscrasias, their potential function remains unclear. We measured the expression of MAGE‐CT genes (MAGE‐C1/CT7, MAGE‐A3, MAGE‐C2/CT10) in 105 newly diagnosed amyloid light‐chain (AL) amyloidosis patients between June 2013 and January 2018 at Peking University People's Hospital using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In the newly diagnosed AL patients, the positive expression rates of patients with MAGE‐C1/CT7, MAGE‐C2/CT10 and MAGE‐A3 were 83.8% (88/105), 56.71% (38/67) and 22.0% (13/59) respectively. There was no significant correlation between organ propensity and MAGE‐CT gene expression. Changes in the MAGE‐C1/CT7 levels were consistent with a therapeutic effect. The expression levels of MAGE‐C1/CT7, MAGE‐C2/CT10 and MAGE‐A3 provide potentially effective clinical indicators for auxiliary diagnoses and monitoring treatment efficacy in AL amyloidosis patients.
Systematic profiling identifies PDLIM2 as a novel prognostic predictor for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC)
Authors: Song Guiqin , Xu Jun , He Lang , Sun Xiao , Xiong Rong , Luo Yuxi , Hu Xin , Zhang Ruolan , Yue Qiuju , Liu Kang , Feng Gang
Published: June 2019

Till now, no appropriate biomarkers for high‐risk population screening and prognosis prediction have been identified for patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In this study, by the combined use of data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)‐oesophageal carcinoma (ESCA), we aimed to screen dysregulated genes with prognostic value in ESCC and the genetic and epigenetic alterations underlying the dysregulation. About 222 genes that had at least fourfold change in ESCC compared with adjacent normal tissues were identified using the microarray data in GDS3838. Among these genes, only PDLIM2 was associated with nodal invasion and overall survival (OS) at the same time. The high PDLIM2 expression group had significantly longer OS and its expression was independently associated with better OS (HR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.43‐0.95, P = 0.03), after adjustment for gender and pathologic stages. The expression of its exon 7/8/9/10 had the highest AUC value (0.724) and better prognostic value (HR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.22‐0.83, P = 0.01) than total PDLIM2 expression. PDLIM2 DNA copy deletion was common in ESCC and was associated with decreased gene expression. The methylation status of two CpG sites (cg23696886 and cg20449614) in the proximal promoter region of PDLIM2 showed a moderate negative correlation with the gene expression in PDLIM2 copy neutral/amplification group. In conclusion, we infer that PDLIM2 expression might be a novel prognostic indicator for ESCC patients. Its exon 7/8/9/10 expression had the best prognostic value. Its down‐regulation might be associated with gene‐level copy deletion and promoter hypermethylation.
Proinsulin is sensitive to reflect glucose intolerance
Authors: Nakamura Akinobu , Miyoshi Hideaki , Ukawa Shigekazu , Nakamura Koshi , Nakagawa Takafumi , Terauchi Yasuo , Tamakoshi Akiko , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: June 2019

Aims/Introduction

We investigated associations between glucose tolerance and β‐cell function using a series of estimation methods in a population‐based study.

Materials and Methods

Data from the Dynamics of Lifestyle and Neighborhood Community on Health Study were analyzed. A total of 489 participants (263 women) were divided into three groups: normal glucose tolerance (NGT), prediabetes (PDM) and diabetes group. We estimated β‐cell function by the homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function, proinsulin level (PI), C‐peptide index, proinsulin‐to‐C‐peptide ratio (PI/CPR) and proinsulin‐to‐insulin ratio. Because data on all five parameters of β‐cell function showed skewed distributions, the values of these parameters were normalized by natural logarithmic (ln) transformation. Next, the association between glucose tolerance and β‐cell function among participants without diabetes was examined. In this analysis, glucose tolerance was assessed based on glycated hemoglobin levels.

Results

In the crude analysis, ln(PI) and ln(PI/CPR) were significantly higher in the diabetes group than those in the PDM and NGT groups, and these parameters were significantly higher in the PDM group than in the NGT group. Only ln(PI) in the PDM group was significantly higher compared with that in the NGT group after adjustment for age, sex and body mass index (ln[PI]: PDM group 2.38 pmol/L, 95% confidence interval 2.29–2.47 pmol/L; NGT group 2.17 pmol/L, 95% confidence interval 2.12–2.22 pmol/L; P < 0.05). In addition, ln(PI) levels were significantly and positively correlated with glycated hemoglobin quartile in participants without diabetes.

Conclusions

Our results showed that PI was the most sensitive to reflect glucose intolerance.
Miss Mexico's Dress: The Struggle over Reproductive Governance in Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Morgan Lynn M.
Published: June 2019

Cuando surgió una controversia sobre el diseño del vestido de Miss México en 2007, no quedó claro de inmediato cómo la disputa estaba relacionada con la política del aborto. Este artículo analiza el vestido ‐un himno a la rebelión Cristera que tuvo lugar en el centro‐occidente de México desde 1926‐29‐ como parte de un esfuerzo concertado de parte de activistas católicos en Jalisco para revivir los recuerdos de la rebelión Cristera y enmarcar la legalización del aborto en la Ciudad de México como otro capítulo de una larga historia de persecución religiosa. El aborto, argumento, es un vehículo a través del cual las distinciones entre el gobierno secular y el religioso se constituyen en el México postpriísta. La importancia del vestido de Miss México muestra cómo las tensiones clericales y anticlericales llegaron a centrarse en las disputas sobre los derechos sexuales y reproductivos, y cómo la gobernanza reproductiva en México se basa en tensiones entre tendencias secularistas y religiosas. [México, políticas de género, iglesia católica, derechos reproductivos, Cristiada]
Probing activation‐induced neurochemical changes using optogenetics combined with functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy: a feasibility study in the rat primary somatosensory cortex
Authors: Just Nathalie , Faber Cornelius
Published: June 2019

Knowledge about biochemical processes is a prerequisite for a better understanding of mechanisms underlying brain activity. 1H functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐fMRS) at high magnetic fields allows for the non‐invasive measurement of metabolic changes during brain activation. Optogenetics, on the other hand, has revolutionized the field of neuroscience. It was previously coupled with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) techniques in rodents enabling population‐specific targeting of cells, investigating brain networks with unprecedented in vivo precision. The coupling of optogenetics and 1H‐fMRS is expected to enhance the specificity of metabolic readouts to validate neuro‐energetic theories underlying brain activity. To date, the feasibility of combining optogenetic stimulation with fMRS has not been explored. We used green laser stimulation delivered through an optical fiber implanted superficially above the primary somatosensory forelimb cortex (S1FL) of rats expressing the C1V1 opsin in excitatory neurons. A protocol for the acquisition of functional 1H MR spectra upon optogenetic stimulation without craniotomy‐induced artefacts was established. Quantification of metabolite concentrations in S1FL upon optogenetic and electrical forepaw stimulation demonstrated significantly increased glutamate levels (+8.8% and +9.9%, p < 0.05 respectively), which were compensated by decreased glutamine levels (−17% and −18%, p < 0.05 respectively). Our results demonstrate for the first time the feasibility of combining optogenetic control and functional MR spectroscopy (o‐fMRS) in the rat somatosensory cortex, opening new possibilities for monitoring the energetic demands of specific cell populations and for exploring the underpinnings of energy metabolism during brain activity.

Open Science Badges

This article has received a badge for *Open Materials* because it provided all relevant information to reproduce the study in the manuscript. The complete Open Science Disclosure form for this article can be found at the end of the article. More information about the Open Practices badges can be found at https://cos.io/our-services/open-science-badges/.

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Astrocyte‐specific transcriptome analysis using the ALDH1L1 bacTRAP mouse reveals novel biomarkers of astrogliosis in response to neurotoxicity
Authors: Michalovicz Lindsay T. , Kelly Kimberly A. , Vashishtha Saurabh , Ben‐Hamo Rotem , Efroni Sol , Miller Julie V. , Locker Alicia R. , Sullivan Kimberly , Broderick Gordon , Miller Diane B. , O’Callaghan James P.
Published: June 2019

Neurotoxicology is hampered by the inability to predict regional and cellular targets of toxicant‐induced damage. Evaluating astrogliosis overcomes this problem because reactive astrocytes highlight the location of toxicant‐induced damage. While enhanced expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein is a hallmark of astrogliosis, few other biomarkers have been identified. However, bacterial artificial chromosome ‐ translating ribosome affinity purification (bacTRAP) technology allows for characterization of the actively translating transcriptome of a particular cell type; use of this technology in aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member L1 (ALDH1L1) bacTRAP mice can identify genes selectively expressed in astrocytes. The aim of this study was to characterize additional biomarkers of neurotoxicity‐induced astrogliosis using ALDH1L1 bacTRAP mice. The known dopaminergic neurotoxicant 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP; 12.5 mg/kg s.c.) was used to induce astrogliosis. Striatal tissue was obtained 12, 24, and 48 h following exposure for the isolation of actively translating RNA. Subsequently, MPTP‐induced changes in this RNA pool were analyzed by microarray and 184 statistically significant, differentially expressed genes were identified. The dataset was interrogated by gene ontology, pathway, and co‐expression network analyses, which identified novel genes, as well as those with known immune and inflammatory functions. Using these analyses, we were directed to several genes associated with reactive astrocytes. Of these, TIMP1 and miR‐147 were identified as candidate biomarkers because of their robust increased expression following both MPTP and trimethyl tin exposures. Thus, we have demonstrated that bacTRAP can be used to identify new biomarkers of astrogliosis and aid in the characterization of astrocyte phenotypes induced by toxicant exposures.

Open Science Badges

This article has received a badge for *Open Materials* because it provided all relevant information to reproduce the study in the manuscript. The complete Open Science Disclosure form for this article can be found at the end of the article. More information about the Open Practices badges can be found at https://cos.io/our-services/open-science-badges/.

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Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14518.
Sensory ataxia rating scale: Development and validation of a functional scale for patients with sensory neuronopathies
Authors: Martinez Alberto R. M. , Martins Melina P. , Martins Carlos R. , Faber Ingrid , de Rezende Thiago J. R. , Nucci Anamarli , França Marcondes C.
Published: June 2019

Sensory neuronopathies (SN) result from dorsal root ganglia damage and manifest with a combination of sensory deficits and proprioceptive ataxia. Characterization of the natural history and development of therapeutic trials are hampered by the lack of clinical scales that capture the whole spectrum of SN‐related manifestations. We propose and validate a rating instrument for SN. Three experienced neuromuscular specialists developed items to rate SN. The resultant instrument was later validated by the assessment of the intra‐class correlation coefficient, for inter‐rater validity in 48 SN patients, and later in a smaller subset of 16 patients to assess its intra‐rater validity. Standardized Crombach's alpha and Oblimin rotation analysis were performed to verify internal consistency and items' relationship, respectively. Evaluation of Sensory Ataxia Rating Scale (SEARS)'s external validity was performed by comparison to: scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA), Beck balance scale (BBS), and INCAT sensory sum score (ISS). A 10‐item scale with an intra‐class correlation coefficient >0.95 for intra‐ and inter‐rating measurements with a good internal consistency (standardized Cronbach's alpha of 0.83) were observed. There was a normal distribution of the scores without a floor or ceiling effect. A moderate to good correlation between SEARS and SARA, BBS, and ISS was observed. SEARS is a reliable, easy‐to‐perform and consistent instrument to rate SN. Larger cohorts and multicenter studies are needed to validate its usefulness towards possible treatment trials.
Regional maps of rib cortical bone thickness and cross‐sectional geometry
Authors: Holcombe Sven A. , Kang Yun‐Seok , Derstine Brian A. , Wang Stewart C. , Agnew Amanda M.
Published: June 2019

Here we present detailed regional bone thickness and cross‐sectional measurements from full adult ribs using high resolution CT scans processed with a cortical bone mapping technique. Sixth ribs from 33 subjects ranging from 24 to 99 years of age were used to produce average cortical bone thickness maps and to provide average ± 1SD corridors for expected cross‐section properties (cross‐sectional areas and inertial moments) as a function of rib length. Results obtained from CT data were validated at specific rib locations using direct measurements from cut sections. Individual thickness measurements from CT had an accuracy (mean error) and precision (SD error) of −0.013 ± 0.167 mm (R2 coefficient of determination of 0.84). CT‐based measurement errors for rib cross‐sectional geometry were −0.1 ± 13.1% (cortical bone cross‐sectional area) and 4.7 ± 1.8% (total cross‐sectional area). Rib cortical bone thickness maps show the expected regional variation across a typical rib's surface. The local mid‐rib maxima in cortical thickness along the pleural rib aspect ranged from range 0.9 to 2.6 mm across the study population with an average map maximum of 1.4 mm. Along the cutaneous aspect, rib cortical bone thickness ranged from 0.7 to 1.9 mm with an average map thickness of 0.9 mm. Average cross‐sectional properties show a steady reduction in total cortical bone area from 10% along the rib's length through to the sternal end, whereas overall cross‐sectional area remains relatively constant along the majority of the rib's length before rising steeply towards the sternal end. On average, male ribs contained more cortical bone within a given cross‐section than was seen for female ribs. Importantly, however, this difference was driven by male ribs having larger overall cross‐sectional areas, rather than by sex differences in the bone thickness observed at specific local cortex sites. The cortical bone thickness results here can be used directly to improve the accuracy of current human body and rib models. Furthermore, the measurement corridors obtained from adult subjects across a wide age range can be used to validate future measurements from more widely available image sources such as clinical CT where gold standard reference measures (e.g. such as direct measurements obtained from cut sections) are otherwise unobtainable.
Anatomical and ultrasound‐based injections for sunken upper eyelid correction
Authors: Tansatit Tanvaa , Phumyoo Thirawass , Jitaree Benrita , Sahraoui Yasmina M. E. , Lee Joo Heon
Published: June 2019

Background

A needle or a cannula can be safely used during filler injection procedures to correct a sunken upper eyelid. To date, there are no precise injection points recommended that are based on an anatomical study.

Objective

This study systematically investigated the vascular pattern and depth of forehead arteries at the periorbital area of upper eyelid.

Methods

Twenty cadavers were dissected in this study. Additional data were obtained from 30 healthy volunteers using Doppler ultrasound imaging with high‐frequency probe.

Results

The ophthalmic artery divided into two opposite primary branches: the superior and inferior orbitoglabellar arteries running along the orbital rim. After the supratrochlear artery arose from the superior orbitoglabellar artery at the medial eyebrow, the supraorbital artery either divided from this artery near the supraorbital foramen or emerged as an individual artery from the supraorbital notch. The inferior orbitoglabellar artery gave off the radix artery superior to the medial canthal tendon. The radix artery divided into two opposite branches: the dorsal nasal artery going to the nose and the paracentral artery going to the glabella. Ultrasound imaging revealed a subcorrugator space that a cannula can safely pass through. At the supraorbital foramen/notch, the supraorbital artery traveled very close to the bone. Based on the anatomical data collected, the following injection points for a needle and a cannula technique are recommended.

Conclusion

Correction of a sunken upper eyelid is a dangerous procedure which should be performed only by experienced physicians. However, with precise anatomical knowledge and correct techniques, optimal outcomes can be safely achieved.
A cosmetic treatment based on the secretion of Cryptomphalus aspersa 40% improves the clinical results after the use of nonablative fractional laser in skin aging
Authors: Truchuelo M. Teresa , Vitale Maria
Published: June 2019

Introduction

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the application of a cosmetic treatment based on the secretion of Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA) enhances the clinical results, tolerance, and skin regeneration after nonablative laser treatment in patients with moderate photoaging.

Methods

Randomized, double‐blind, split‐face trial in 20 patients with moderate aging. Two sessions with fractional nonablative laser were performed, and the cosmetic treatments (SCA 40% on one hemiface and vehicle on the other) were applied immediately after laser session and daily during the study (28 days). Tewameter, Cutometer, Visioscan, VisioFace, photography, dermoscopy, and clinical evaluation were assessed. Side effects were also evaluated.

Results

A significant decrease in the density of microcolumns (25%, 71%, 32%, and 61% less density, respectively, at T3 P = 0.008, T7 P = 0.002, T22 P < 0.001, and T24 P < 0.001) was observed on the side treated with SCA compared to the vehicle‐treated side. Cutaneous elasticity, area of wrinkles, and hydration on the SCA‐treated side also showed a significant improvement compared to the vehicle‐treated side. Both the researcher and patients observed a significant improvement on the side treated with SCA compared to the vehicle‐treated side. Significantly fewer side effects (erythema, burning, and dryness) were also detected.

Conclusion

A cosmetic product with SCA 40% applied immediately after laser and for a period thereafter enhances and accelerates repair of damage produced by the laser and significantly reduces related adverse effects. In addition, SCA treatment could improve clinical results. In conclusion, we suggest that SCA enhances the effectiveness of laser in the treatment of cutaneous aging.
Shear and extensional rheology of acid milk gel suspensions with varying ropiness
Authors: Surber Georg , Jaros Doris , Rohm Harald
Published: June 2019

Exopolysaccharides (EPS) synthesized by lactic acid bacteria during fermentation significantly affect the rheology of set‐style acid milk gels and that of acid gel suspensions, produced from the gels by stirring. In this study, shear and uniaxial extensional flow of acid gel suspensions made with seven single strains of Streptococcus thermophilus or Lactococcus lactis was investigated. Six strains produced ropy EPS, and maximum filament length determined by using a continuous stretching method was up to four times higher than filament length of an EPS‐negative control strain. The systems containing ropy EPS showed a different response to shear and extensional deformation. In shear rheology, higher apparent viscosities and an enhanced structural breakdown was observed for acid gel suspensions with more pronounced ropiness. Breakup time and extensional viscosity, determined by using a Capillary Breakup Extensional Rheometer (CaBER™), significantly increased with increasing ropiness. The increase of extensional viscosity with increasing ropiness was, however, much higher than the effects of ropiness on shear viscosity. As relaxation times also depended on ropiness, it is concluded that ropiness is caused by EPS‐EPS interactions that can be better discriminated in extensional rheology.

Practical applications

To improve the texture of fermented milk, lactic acid bacteria that are able to produce ropy exopolysaccharides (EPS) are increasingly used in the dairy industry. The EPS exhibit a significant influence on processing properties and sensory characteristics of the resulting products, which can be estimated by means of shear and extensional rheology. The current work provides information on these respective properties of acid gel suspensions, which facilitate product design by supporting the selection of appropriate starter cultures.
Plasma and synovial fluid pharmacokinetics of a single intravenous dose of meropenem in adult horses
Authors: Langston Vernon C. , Fontenot Robin L. , Byers Julie A. , Andrews Caroline M. , Mochal‐King Cathleen A.
Published: June 2019

The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of meropenem in horses after intravenous (IV) administration. A single IV dose of meropenem was administered to six adult horses at 10 mg/kg. Plasma and synovial fluid samples were collected for 6 hr following administration. Meropenem concentrations were determined by bioassay. Plasma and synovial fluid data were analyzed by compartmental and noncompartmental pharmacokinetic methods. Mean ± SD values for elimination half‐life, volume of distribution at steady‐state, and clearance after IV administration for plasma samples were 0.78 ± 0.176 hr, 136.1 ± 19.69 ml/kg, and 165.2 ± 29.72 ml hr‐1 kg−1, respectively. Meropenem in synovial fluid had a slower elimination than plasma with a terminal half‐life of 2.4 ± 1.16 hr. Plasma protein binding was estimated at 11%. Based on a 3‐compartment open pharmacokinetic model of simultaneously fit plasma and synovial fluid, dosage simulations were performed. An intermittent dosage of meropenem at 5 mg/kg IV every 8 hr or a constant rate IV infusion at 0.5 mg/kg per hour should maintain adequate time above the MIC target of 1 μg/ml. Carbapenems are antibiotics of last resort in humans and should only be used in horses when no other antimicrobial would likely be effective.
Snack food and beverage consumption and young child nutrition in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Pries Alissa M. , Filteau Suzanne , Ferguson Elaine L.
Published: June 2019

Although snacks can provide important nutrients for young children during the complementary feeding period, the increasing availability of snack foods and sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSB), often energy‐dense and nutrient‐poor, in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) is a concern. Such foods may displace consumption of nutritious foods in contexts where diets are often nutritionally inadequate and the burden of childhood malnutrition is high. This systematic review summarizes literature on the contribution of snack food/SSB consumption to total energy intakes (TEI) of children below 23 months of age in LMIC and associations between this consumption and nutritional outcomes. It also identifies areas where further research is needed. A systematic search of Embase, Global Health, and MEDLINE for literature published in January 1990–July 2018 was conducted. This search yielded 8,299 studies, 13 of which met inclusion criteria: Nine studies assessed % TEI from snack foods/SSB, and four studies assessed associations between snack food/SSB consumption and nutritional outcomes. Average % TEI from snack foods/SSB ranged from 13% to 38%. Findings regarding associations with growth were inconclusive, and no studies assessed associations with nutrient intakes. Variation in measurement of consumption and definitions of snack foods and SSB limited study comparisons. Further research is needed to understand how consumption of energy‐dense, nutrient‐poor snack foods and SSB influences undernutrition and overnutrition among young children during the complementary feeding period in settings that are experiencing dietary transitions and the double burden of malnutrition.
Effectiveness of modern leaf analysis tools for the morpho‐ecological study of plants: the case of Primula albenensis
Authors: Luca Giupponi , Annamaria Giorgi
Published: June 2019

Scientific and technological progress has led to the creation of analysis tools that have revolutionized traditional studies in morphology and plant ecology. Recently developed methods and tools which, on the basis of leaf samples, allow for geometric morphometric analyses and the evaluation of functional strategies are good examples. These methods, still little used, have never been applied on leaf samples to simultaneously obtain information on their morphometry and the ecology of the plants. This article discusses the effectiveness of modern leaf analysis tools for geometric morphometrics (outline analysis) and studies of functional strategies based on the competitor‐stress tolerator‐ruderal (CSR) scheme, using a study of a steno‐endemic plant of the Alps, Primula albenensis Banfi et Ferl. as an example. These aspects were analyzed using leaf samples collected in the only two areas where this species grows. CSR analyses revealed that P. albenensis is not a stress‐tolerant species (C:S:R = 37:1:62), as previously thought. Moreover, no significant intraspecific differences in functional strategy were revealed. Instead, outline analysis highlighted a significant difference (p < 0.001) between leaves collected from the two sampling areas. The results of this study and others reported in the literature therefore suggest that these modern methods of leaf analysis are cheap, effective and relatively simple to perform. Furthermore, researchers are able to carry out geometric morphometric and CSR analysis using the same samples of leaves in order to maximize the information content provided by the analysis of a plant material which may not be easily available.
Consequences of recombination for the evolution of the mating type locus in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Hasan Ahmed R. , Duggal Jaspreet K. , Ness Rob W.
Published: June 2019

Recombination suppression in sex chromosomes and mating type loci can lead to degeneration as a result of reduced selection efficacy and Muller's ratchet effects. However, genetic exchange in the form of noncrossover gene conversions may still take place within crossover‐suppressed regions. Recent work has found evidence that gene conversion may explain the low degrees of allelic differentiation in the dimorphic mating‐type locus (MT) of the isogamous alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. However, no one has tested whether gene conversion is sufficient to avoid the degeneration of functional sequence within MT.

Here, we calculate degree of linkage disequilibrium (LD) across MT as a proxy for recombination rate and investigate its relationship to patterns of population genetic variation and the efficacy of selection in the region.

We find that degree of LD predicts selection efficacy across MT, and that purifying selection is stronger in shared genes than in MT‐limited genes to the point of being equivalent to that of autosomal genes.

We argue that while crossover suppression is needed in the mating‐type loci of many isogamous systems, these loci are less likely to experience selection to differentiate further. Thus, recombination can act in these regions and prevent degeneration caused by Hill–Robertson effects.
Late fractionated potentials in catheter ablation for right ventricular outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Lee Wei‐Chieh , Wu Po‐Jui , Fang Hsiu‐Yu , Chen Huang‐Chung , Chen Yung‐Lung , Tsai Tzu‐Hsien , Pan Kuo‐Li , Lin Yu‐Sheng , Chen Mien‐Cheng
Published: June 2019

Background

Endocardial late fractionated potentials during sinus rhythm mapping may reflect abnormal “subendocardial” substrates associated with right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). The aim of this study was to explore the clinical outcomes of catheter ablation guided by these late fractionated potentials for RVOT VAs in patients without structural heart disease.

Methods

From January 2016 to March 2018, 28 patients underwent catheter ablation for RVOT premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), guided by the EnSite NavX or Velocity V5.0 three‐dimensional mapping system (Abbott, St. Paul, MN, USA). Among them, 10 patients (35.7%) were found to have endocardial late fractionated potentials during sinus rhythm mapping (Group 1). Group 2 was composed of 18 patients in whom no endocardial late fractionated potentials were seen. The burden of VAs, acute procedural success, and 3‐month clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Results

The average duration of late fractionated potentials after the end of QRS during sinus rhythm mapping in group 1 was 45.00 ± 17.15 ms. Baseline demographics and morphology and burden of PVCs were similarly distributed between both groups. Group 1 had higher acute procedural success compared to group 2 (100% vs 66.7%; P = .039). Moreover, at 3‐month follow‐up, group 1 had lower total PVCs (49 (1‐5986) versus 4316 (1‐23231); P = .048), PVC burden (0% (0‐5.9) vs 4.3% (0‐18.9); P = .055), and higher clinical success (100% vs 55.6%; P = .025) compared to group 2.

Conclusion

The identification and elimination of endocardial late fractionated potentials during sinus rhythm mapping could improve the acute success and short‐term outcomes of ablation for RVOT VAs.
First‐in‐man fully leadless transvenous CRT‐P with a transseptal implant of WISE‐CRT® system and Micra® PM
Authors: Montemerlo Elisabetta , Pozzi Mattia , De Ceglia Sergio , Santini Francesca , Piazzi Elena , Rovaris Giovanni
Published: June 2019

We describe the world's first fully leadless cardiac resynchronization therapy pacing implant with transseptal approach, in a patient with pacemaker dependency, atrial fibrillation, ischemic hypokinetic cardiomyopathy, and a history of pocket infections. After lead extraction, we implanted a MicraTranscathether Pacing System® (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) as the sole right ventricular pacemaker, and the WISECRT system (EBR Systems, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) to provide biventricular pacing. We performed the WISECRT implant procedure using the transseptal approach given the presence of a prosthetic aortic mechanical valve, achieving satisfactory periprocedural results.
CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated editing of 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate oxidase1 enhances Petunia flower longevity
Authors: Xu Junping , Kang Beum‐Chang , Naing Aung Htay , Bae Su‐Ji , Kim Jin‐Soo , Kim Hyeran , Kim Chang Kil
Published: June 2019

The genes that encode the ethylene biosynthesis enzyme 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate oxidase (ACO) are thought to be involved in flower senescence. Hence, we investigated whether the transcript levels of PhACO genes (PhACO1, PhACO3 and PhACO4) in Petunia cv. Mirage Rose are associated with ethylene production at different flowering stages. High transcript levels were detected in the late flowering stage and linked to high ethylene levels. PhACO1 was subsequently edited using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and its role in ethylene production was investigated. PhACO1‐edited T0 mutant lines, regardless of mutant type (homozygous or monoallelic), exhibited significantly reduced ethylene production and enhanced flower longevity compared with wild‐type. Flower longevity and the reduction in ethylene production were observed to be stronger in homozygous plants than in their monoallelic counterparts. Additionally, the transmission of the edited gene to the T1 (lines 6 and 36) generation was also confirmed, with the results for flower longevity and ethylene production proving to be identical to those of the T0 mutant lines. Overall, this study increases the understanding of the role of PhACO1 in petunia flower longevity and also points to the CRISPR/Cas9 system being a powerful tool in the improvement of floricultural quality.
Targeting endosomal NOX2 as a potential therapy to limit influenza A virus infection
Authors: Laghlali Gabriel , Tate Michelle D.
Published: June 2019

See related Article
Trade balance dynamics and exchange rates: In search of the J‐curve using a structural gravity approach
Authors: Badinger Harald , Fichet de Clairfontaine Aurélien
Published: June 2019

This paper uses a structural gravity approach, specifying currency movements as trade cost component to derive an empirical trade balance model, which incorporates multilateral resistance terms and accounts for the cross‐country variation in the exchange rate pass‐through into import and export prices. The model is estimated using quarterly bilateral trade flows between 47 countries over the period 2010Q1 to 2017Q2, disaggregated into 97 commodity groups. Our results support the existence of an “aggregate” J‐curve, pooled over commodity groups; at the same time they point to considerable heterogeneity in the trade balance dynamics across industries below the surface of aggregate data.
Sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics associated with blood donation in the United States: a population‐based study
Authors: Patel Eshan U. , Bloch Evan M. , Grabowski Mary K. , Goel Ruchika , Lokhandwala Parvez M. , Brunker Patricia A.R. , White Jodie L. , Shaz Beth , Ness Paul M. , Tobian Aaron A.R.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Contemporary population‐based data on characteristics associated with blood donation in the United States (U.S.) are limited.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A cross‐sectional analysis was performed among 28,739 persons aged 18 years and older who participated in the 2016 National Health Interview Survey, a household survey of the noninstitutionalized U.S. civilian population. Analyses were weighted and accounted for the complex survey design. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were estimated by multivariable log‐binomial regression.

RESULTS

The percentage of individuals reporting a past‐year history of blood donation was 5.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.3%‐6.1%) and was highest in the youngest age group (18‐24 years, 8.4%). A past‐year history of blood donation was more common in males compared to females (6.3% vs. 5.1%; aPR, 1.12 [95% CI, 0.99‐1.27]) and those born in the U.S. compared to individuals born outside the U.S. (6.4% vs. 2.4%; aPR, 1.92 [95% CI, 1.49‐2.47]). The percentage of individuals with a past‐year history of blood donation was significantly lower in blacks (3.9%; aPR, 0.60 [95% CI, 0.47‐0.75]) and Hispanics (3.0%; aPR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.48‐0.83]) in comparison to whites (6.9%). Being a college graduate, being employed, being physically active, and never being a cigarette smoker were factors positively associated with blood donation. The percentage of individuals with a past‐year history of blood donation varied by geographic census region, with prevalence being higher in the Midwest (7.3%) and South (6.0%) compared to the Northeast (4.7%) and West (4.4%).

CONCLUSION

Continued differences in the blood donor population with reference to the U.S. population underscore the need to understand barriers or deterrents to blood donation. Evidence‐based donor recruitment and related policies remain imperative to ensure that there is a sustainable blood supply.
Investigation of percentage changes in pulse wave transit time induced by mini‐fluid challenges to predict fluid responsiveness in ventilated dogs
Authors: Sano Hiroki , Fujiyama Masako , Wightman Paul , Cave Nick J. , Gieseg Mike A. , Johnson Craig B. , Chambers Paul
Published: June 2019

Objective

To investigate whether percentage changes in pulse wave transit time (PWTT%Δ) induced by mini‐fluid challenges predict fluid responsiveness in mechanically ventilated anesthetized dogs.

Design

Prospective experimental trial.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Twelve Harrier hounds.

Intervention

Each dog was anesthetized with propofol and isoflurane after premedication with acepromazine, mechanically ventilated, and had a fluid challenge. This was repeated 4 weeks later. The fluid challenge, 10 mL/kg of colloid administration over 13 minutes, consisted of 3 intermittent mini‐fluid challenges (1 mL/kg of each over a minute) with a minute interval, and the remaining colloid administration (7 mL/kg) over 7 minutes.

Measurements and Main Results

Percentage change in velocity time integral of pulmonary arterial flow by echocardiography was calculated as an indication of change in stroke volume. Fluid responsiveness was defined as percentage change in velocity time integral ≥ 15% after 10 mL/kg colloid. Dogs responded on 14 fluid challenges and did not on 10. After 1, 2, 3, and 10 mL/kg of fluid challenge, PWTT%Δ1, 2, 3, 10 were measured. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were generated and areas under ROC curve were calculated for PWTT%Δ1, 2, 3. A gray zone approach was used to identify the clinically inconclusive range. The area under the ROC curve for PWTT%Δ3 was 0.91 (P = 0.001). Cutoff value for PWTT%Δ3 was −2.5% (sensitivity: 86%, specificity: 90%). The gray zone for PWTT%Δ3 was identified as between −2.9% to −1.9% for which fluid responsiveness could not be predicted reliably in 6 out of 24 fluid challenges.

Conclusions

In mechanically ventilated anesthetized dogs given a mini‐fluid challenge of 3 mL/kg of colloid, PWTT%Δ could predict fluid responsiveness although the gray zone should be considered.
Biomechanical comparison of three epitendinous suture patterns as adjuncts to a core locking loop suture for repair of canine flexor tendon injuries
Authors: Cocca Christina J. , Duffy Daniel J. , Kersh Mariana E. , Kim Woojae , Groenewold Andrew , Moore George E.
Published: June 2019

Objective

To determine the effects of different epitendinous sutures (ES) in addition to core locking‐loop (LL) sutures on the mechanical properties and gap formation in a canine cadaveric tendon model.

Study design

Experimental, ex vivo, biomechanical study.

Sample population

Seventy‐two cadaveric superficial digital flexor tendon specimens.

Methods

Superficial digital flexor tendon specimens were divided into four groups (n = 18): sharply transected and repaired with LL, LL + simple continuous ES, LL + Silfverskiöld cross‐stitch ES, and LL + interlocking horizontal mattress ES. Constructs were loaded to monotonic failure. Failure modes, gapping, yield, peak, and failure forces were analyzed. Significance was set at P < .05.

Results

Yield, peak, and failure forces increased by 2.5‐fold, two‐fold, and twofold, respectively when ES groups were compared with core LL suture patterns alone (P < .0001). Resistance to 1‐ and 3‐mm gap formation was greater in ES groups compared with core LL constructs alone (P < .0001). No differences in yield, peak, failure force, or gapping were observed among ES patterns (P > .827).

Conclusion

Adding an ES reduced gap formation and increased yield, peak, and failure forces of tenorrhaphies. No difference was detected between the epitendinous patterns tested in this study.

Clinical significance

The addition of an ES seems more relevant than the specific type of pattern to improve the biomechanical properties of flexor tendon repairs. In vivo studies are warranted to determine the biological implications of the patterns tested here.
Mechanism of Fast Transition of Pressure Pulsations in the Vaneless Space of a Model Pump-Turbine During Runaway
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxi , Zeng Wei , Cheng Yongguang , Yang Zhiyan , Chen Qiuhua , Yang Jiandong
Published: June 2019

The pressure pulsations in the vaneless space of pump-turbines are extremely intense and always experience rapid time variations during transient scenarios, causing structural vibrations and even more serious accidents. In this study, the mechanism behind the rapid time variations of the vaneless space pressure pulsations in a model pump-turbine during runaway was analyzed through three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulations. These results show that the high-frequency pressure pulsation components originating from rotor–stator interactions (RSI) are dominant during the whole process. These components fluctuate significantly in frequency when the working point goes through the S-shaped region of the characteristic curve, with the amplitudes increasing. Meanwhile, some low-frequency pulsations are also enhanced and become obvious. These features can be attributed to the transitions of the inter blade vortex structures (IBVSs) to the forward flow vortex structures (FFVSs) and the back flow vortex structures (BFVSs) at the impeller entrance, when the pump-turbine operates in the region with S-shaped characteristics. The FFVSs mainly cause decreases in frequency and introduce low-frequency pulsations, while the BFVSs are responsible for the unstable fluctuations. These findings contribute to the understanding of how transient flow patterns evolve and may provide new ideas about avoiding severe pressure pulsations caused by rotating stalls in the pump-turbine during transient scenarios.