bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re‐exploring Fair Value Accounting and Value Relevance: An Examination of Underlying Securities
Authors: Fortin Steve , Hammami Ahmad , Magnan Michel
Published: April 2020

Focusing on closed‐end investment funds, this paper examines whether the value relevance attached to fair value estimates is influenced by the type of investment being held. Our premise is that the fair values of different investment types rely on different valuation models and imply different underlying risks. Using hand‐collected US closed‐end funds data from 2009 to 2011, our results show that the value relevance attached to fair value hierarchy levels’ assets (i.e., Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3) reflects both the source of market information for fair value estimates (i.e., market prices, market inputs, and model‐based) and also the underlying type of investment being valued (e.g., government bonds, equities, corporate bonds, etc.). Within the same fair value category, we show that different types of investments have their own distinct value relevance that is significantly different from that of other types of investments within the same category. Moreover, within the same type of investment, we also show that the value relevance varies across the three fair value category levels. Our results further show that auditing in general only significantly impacts the value relevance of equities in Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3, and corporate bonds in Level 3.
The influence of left ventricular assist device inflow cannula position on thrombosis risk
Authors: Ghodrati Mojgan , Maurer Alexander , Schlöglhofer Thomas , Khienwad Thananya , Zimpfer Daniel , Beitzke Dietrich , Zonta Francesco , Moscato Francesco , Schima Heinrich , Aigner Philipp
Published: April 2020

The use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) as a treatment method for heart failure patients has been steadily increasing; however, pathological studies showed presence of thrombi around the HeartWare ventricular assist device inflow cannula (IC) in more than 95% of patients after device explantation. Flow fields around the IC might trigger thrombus formation and require further investigation. In this study flow dynamics parameters were evaluated for different patient geometries using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Left ventricular (LV) models of two LVAD patients were obtained from CT scans. The LV volumes of Patient 1 (P1) and Patient 2 (P2) were 264 and 114 cm3 with an IC angle of 20° and 9° from the mitral‐IC tip axis at the coronal plane. The IC insertion site at the apex was central for P1, whereas it was lateral for P2. Transient CFD simulations were performed over 9 cardiac cycles. The wedge area was defined from the cannula tip to the wall of the LV apex. Mean velocity magnitude and blood stagnation region (volume with mean velocity <5 mm/s) as well as the wall shear stress (WSS) at the IC surface were calculated. Cardiac support resulted in a flow mainly crossing the ventricle from the mitral valve to the LVAD cannula for P2, while the main inflow jet deviated toward the septal wall in P1. Lower WSS at the IC surface and consequently larger stagnation volumes were observed for P2 (P1: 0.17, P2: 0.77 cm3). Flow fields around an LVAD cannula can be influenced by many parameters such as LV size, IC angle, and implantation site. Careful consideration of influencing parameters is essential to get reliable evaluations of the apical flow field and its connection to apical thrombus formation. Higher blood washout and lower stagnation were observed for a central implantation of the IC at the apex.
Coronary artery bypass surgery independently associates with retinal vascular oxygen saturation
Authors: Dinesen Sebastian , Jensen Pia S. , Bloksgaard Maria , Mey Jo De , S.Lindholt Jes , Rasmusssen Lars M. , Grauslund Jakob
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The retinal vasculature is the only part of the microcirculation that can be directly studied by non‐invasive imaging. Based on the hypothesis that the systemic circulation is reflected in retinal vessels, we investigated if coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is related to changes in retinal vascular oxygen saturation (rSatO2).

Methods

Retinal metabolism was evaluated by Oxymap T1, which simultaneously captures two retinal images at different wavelengths measuring the retinal arteriolar (raSatO2) and venular (rvSatO2) oxygen saturation. Three to 4 days after surgery, we measured the median rSatO2 after CABG in 38 patients and in 39 healthy controls (operated for cataract).

Results

Coronary artery bypass grafting patients had higher raSatO2 (median ± standard deviation 93.1 ± 6.7% versus 90.5 ± 11.2%, p = 0.001) and rvSatO2 (57.4 ± 8.3% versus 53.5 ± 15.4%, p = 0.048) compared to healthy controls. In multivariable linear regression models, raSatO2 independently associated with CABG (coefficient + 3.6% in CABG patients, p = 0.007), and rvSatO2 correlated with gender (coefficient + 9.4% for females, p = 0.001) and CABG (coefficient + 8.2% in patients with CABG, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Comparing patients with and without cardiovascular disease, raSatO2 and rvSatO2 positively and independently associated with CABG, suggesting their potential as non‐invasive markers for coronary large artery disease.
The occurrence of reflexes and reactions in cattle following stunning with a captive bolt at the slaughterhouse
Authors: Vecerek Vladimir , Kamenik Josef , Voslarova Eva , Vecerkova Lenka , Machovcova Zuzana , Volfova Martina , Konvalinova Jarmila
Published: April 2020

The difference in the frequency of the occurrence of reflexes/reactions in 355 cows (average weight 505.5 ± 7.9 kg) and 262 bulls (average weight 735.6 ± 8.4 kg) following stunning with a Matador SS 3,000 B trigger‐activated captive bolt gun (Termet) was determined. The stun shot more than 2 cm from the ideal position was found in 79.6% of animals. Vocalization, corneal reflex, rhythmic breathing, blinking, eyeball rotation and the absence of tongue protrusion occurred more frequently in bulls (p < .05). Spontaneous limb movements and nystagmus occurred more frequently in cows (p < .05). No difference between bulls and cows was determined in the occurrence of a response to painful stimuli or attempts to regain normal posture. No dependency was determined between the frequency of the occurrence of a reflex/reaction and the distance of the stun shot from the ideal point on the skull for any of the monitored signs. This study shows that the occurrence of reflexes/reactions following the stunning of cattle with a captive bolt is not only dependent on the position of the shot if placed within a 9 cm radius from the ideal point on the cattle skull.
Randomized study of the effect of gadopiclenol, a new gadolinium‐based contrast agent, on the QTc interval in healthy subjects
Authors: Funck‐Brentano Christian , Felices Mathieu , Le Fur Nathalie , Dubourdieu Corinne , Desché Pierre , Vanhoutte Frédéric , Voiriot Pascal
Published: April 2020

Aims

We investigated the effect of gadopiclenol, a new gadolinium‐based contrast agent, on the QTc interval at clinical and supraclinical dose, considering the relative hyperosmolarity of this product.

Methods

This was a single centre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐ and positive‐controlled, 4‐way crossover study. Forty‐eight healthy male and female subjects were included to receive single intravenous (i.v.) administrations of gadopiclenol at the clinical dose of 0.1 mmol kg−1, standard for current gadolinium‐based contrast agents, the supraclinical dose of 0.3 mmol kg−1, placebo and a single oral dose of 400 mg moxifloxacin.

Results

The largest time‐matched placebo‐corrected, mean change from‐baseline in QTcF (ΔΔQTcF) was observed 3 hours after administration of 0.1 mmol kg−1 gadopiclenol (2.39 ms, 90% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35, 4.43 ms) and 5 minutes after administration of 0.3 mmol kg−1 (4.81 ms, 90%CI: 2.84, 6.78 ms). The upper limit of the 90% CI was under the threshold of 10 ms, demonstrating no significant effect of gadopiclenol on QTc interval. From 1.5 to 4 hours postdose moxifloxacin, the lower limit of the 90% CI of ΔΔQTcF exceeded 5 ms demonstrating assay sensitivity. Although there was a positive slope, the concentration–response analysis estimated that the values of ΔΔQTcF at the maximal concentration of gadopiclenol at 0.1 and 0.3 mmol kg−1 were 0.41 and 2.23 ms, respectively, with the upper limit of the 90% CI not exceeding 10 ms. No serious or severe adverse events or treatment discontinuations due to adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

This thorough QT/QTc study demonstrated that gadopiclenol did not prolong the QT interval at clinical and supraclinical doses and was well tolerated in healthy volunteers. The positive slope of the QTc prolongation vs concentration relationship suggests that hyperosmolarity could be associated with QTc prolongation. However, the amplitude of this effects is unlikely to be associated with proarrhythmia.
Minimizing animal welfare harms associated with predation management in agro‐ecosystems
Authors: Allen Benjamin L. , Hampton Jordan O.
Published: April 2020

The impacts of wild predators on livestock are a common source of human–wildlife conflict globally, and predators are subject to population control for this reason in many situations. Animal welfare is one of many important considerations affecting decisions about predation management. Recent studies discussing animal welfare in this context have presented arguments emphasizing the importance of avoiding intentional harm to predators, but they have not usually considered harms imposed by predators on livestock and other animals. Efforts to mitigate predation impacts (including ‘no control’ approaches) cause a variety of harms to predators, livestock and other wildlife. Successfully minimizing the overall frequency and magnitude of harms requires consideration of the direct, indirect, intentional and unintentional harms imposed on all animals inhabiting agricultural landscapes. We review the harms resulting from the management of dingoes and other wild dogs in the extensive beef cattle grazing systems of Australia to illustrate how these negative impacts can be minimized across both wild and domestic species present on a farm or in a free‐ranging livestock grazing context. Similar to many other predator–livestock conflicts, wild dogs impose intermittent harms on beef cattle (especially calves) including fatal predation, non‐fatal attack (mauling and biting), pathogen transmission, and fear‐ or stress‐related effects. Wild dog control tools and strategies impose harms on dingoes and other wildlife including stress, pain and death as a consequence of both lethal and non‐lethal control approaches. To balance these various sources of harm, we argue that the tactical use of lethal predator control approaches can result in harming the least number of individual animals, given certain conditions. This conclusion conflicts with both traditional (e.g. continuous or ongoing lethal control) and contemporary (e.g. predator‐friendly or no‐control) predation management approaches. The general and transferable issues, approaches and principles we describe have broad applicability to many other human–wildlife conflicts around the world.
The effect of patient‐managed stress dosing on electrolytes and blood pressure in acute illness in children with adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Chrisp Georgina L , Torpy David J , Maguire Ann M , Quartararo Maria , Falhammar Henrik , King Bruce R , Munns Craig F , Hameed Shihab , Rushworth R Louise
Published: April 2020

Background

Adrenal crises (AC) are acute episodes of adrenal insufficiency (AI). Manifestations include hypotension and electrolyte disturbances. Glucocorticoid stress dosing (SD) can prevent AC progression, but its effect on physiological parameters has not been assessed in a ‘real world setting’.

Aims

To assess the effect of prior self‐managed glucocorticoid dose escalation on physiological markers in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) presenting to hospital for an acute illness.

Methods

An audit of records of all children with CAH presenting to paediatric referral hospital between 2000 and 2015. Potassium, sodium and glucose levels, and hypotension were compared between children who had and had not used SD.

Results

There were 321 attendances by patients with CAH and an acute illness during the study period. Any form of SD was used by 64.2% (n = 206); intramuscular (IM) hydrocortisone was used by 22.1% (n = 71) and oral only by 41.7% (n = 134). Use of SD (oral and/or IM) was associated with a significantly lower mean potassium level (4.02 ± 0.71 vs. 4.27 ± 0.79 mmol/l, P < .05). Linear regression analysis showed that age (beta: −0.04 years (95% CI −0.06, −0.02)), diarrhoea (beta: −0.41 (95% CI −0.06, −0.02)) and any form of stress dosing (oral, IM or both) (beta: −0.29 (95% CI −0.55, −0.04)) were each independently and significantly associated with potassium levels. SD was not significantly associated with sodium or glucose concentrations or with estimates of hypotension.

Conclusion

Patient‐initiated SD resulted in a significant reduction in hyperkalaemia and lowered mean potassium levels in paediatric patients with CAH but did not alter significantly sodium and glucose concentrations or incidences of hypotension.
Sulphur‐doped carbon dots as a highly efficient nano‐photodynamic agent against oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Qirong , Zhou Ronghui , Xie Yu , Li Yanjing , Chen Yu , Cai Xiaoxiao
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a novel non‐invasive therapeutic method, which has been widely applied for the treatment of human oral cancers. However, the problems of undesirable singlet oxygen (1O2) quantum yields and long‐term phototoxicity were inevitable during the application of traditional photosensitizers. Therefore, it is necessary to explore novel photosensitizers for the improvement of therapeutic effects. In our study, the sulphur‐doped carbon dots (S‐CDs) of high yield of singlet oxygen (1O2) were synthesized as a nano‐photosensitizer for OSCC to improve the PDT efficacy in clinical practice.

Materials and methods

After synthesis of the novel S‐CDs, the size, morphologic characteristics, surface potential and yield of singlet oxygen (1O2) were determined. In vitro study was performed to compare the therapeutic effect as well as the biocompatibility of the novel S‐CDs to those of 5‐ALA. Besides, possible mechanism of action was illustrated.

Results

After synthesis of the novel S‐CDs, the size, morphologic characteristics, surface potential and yield of singlet oxygen (1O2) were determined. In vitro study was performed to compare the therapeutic effect as well as the biocompatibility of the novel S‐CDs to those of 5‐ALA. Besides, possible mechanism of action was illustrated.

Conclusions

These data from the in vitro study demonstrated the promising safety profile of the low dose (nmol/L) S‐CDs, which indicated the novel S‐CDs could be used as a promising photodynamic agent for oral cancer therapy.
Bowen disease with matrical differentiation: Report of an exceptional histopathologic presentation
Authors: Saggini Andrea , Bang Nicole , Hantschke Markus , Held Laura , Kempter Wolfgang , Schärer Leo
Published: April 2020

Matrical differentiation is the distinctive feature of pilomatricoma and other purely matrical adnexal neoplasms; additionally, foci of matrical differentiation have been also described in hybrid cysts of Gardner syndrome, as well as in a wide variety of benign and malignant cutaneous tumors, including basal cell carcinoma. We report an exceptional case of Bowen disease exhibiting multiple foci of matrical differentiation, as confirmed by means of immunohistochemical studies. Several types of divergent, non‐squamous differentiation have been exceptionally reported in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ (cSCCIS), including sebaceous, mucinous/glandular, poroid, tricholemmal, and neuroendocrine differentiation; matrical differentiation may be added to this list. Our findings further emphasize the undifferentiated nature of neoplastic cells in cSCCIS.
The use of volatile cues in recognition of kin eggs by predatory mites
Authors: Saitoh Fumiaki , Janssen Arne , Choh Yasuyuki
Published: April 2020

Several animal species are known to distinguish between their own eggs and eggs of unrelated conspecifics. However, the cues involved in this discrimination are often unknown. These cues were studied using the predatory mite Gynaeseius liturivorus Ehara.

Adult females of these predatory mites oviposit in clusters and avoid oviposition close to eggs laid by other females, resulting in reduced cannibalism between offspring. Because predatory mites are blind, it was tested whether volatiles of eggs were used as a cue for egg recognition.

Adult female predatory mites were offered volatile cues of their own eggs and of unrelated conspecific eggs, and females were prevented from contacting the eggs. Predatory mites oviposited closer to their own eggs than to unrelated eggs. This preference was observed even when one own and one unrelated egg were offered as a volatile source.

These results suggest that adult female predatory mites can determine kinship using volatiles released from the eggs.
First report of Calonectria montana causing damping‐off disease on pine and spruce seedlings in Europe
Authors: Stępniewska Hanna , Jankowiak Robert , Boroń Piotr , Woźniak Kamil
Published: April 2020

In 2015–2016, damping‐off symptoms were observed on Pinus sylvestris and Picea abies seedlings in four forest nurseries in Poland. Some Calonectria isolates were obtained from symptomatic seedlings by culturing pieces of necrotic tissue on malt extract agar.Morphological and molecular analyses revealed that isolates represent Calonectria montana, a recently described species from natural forests in China. The isolates represent the first detection of this species outside of Asia. Pathogenicity tests demonstrated that C. montana is a severe pathogen of P. sylvestris seedlings.
The credit assignment problem in cortico‐basal ganglia‐thalamic networks: A review, a problem and a possible solution
Authors: Rubin Jonathan E. , Vich Catalina , Clapp Matthew , Noneman Kendra , Verstynen Timothy
Published: April 2020

The question of how cortico‐basal ganglia‐thalamic (CBGT) pathways use dopaminergic feedback signals to modify future decisions has challenged computational neuroscientists for decades. Reviewing the literature on computational representations of dopaminergic corticostriatal plasticity, we show how the field is converging on a normative, synaptic‐level learning algorithm that elegantly captures both neurophysiological properties of CBGT circuits and behavioral dynamics during reinforcement learning. Unfortunately, the computational studies that have led to this normative algorithmic model have all relied on simplified circuits that use abstracted action‐selection rules. As a result, the application of this corticostriatal plasticity algorithm to a full model of the CBGT pathways immediately fails because the spatiotemporal distance between integration (corticostriatal circuits), action selection (thalamocortical loops) and learning (nigrostriatal circuits) means that the network does not know which synapses should be reinforced to favor previously rewarding actions. We show how observations from neurophysiology, in particular the sustained activation of selected action representations, can provide a simple means of resolving this credit assignment problem in models of CBGT learning. Using a biologically realistic spiking model of the full CBGT circuit, we demonstrate how this solution can allow a network to learn to select optimal targets and to relearn action‐outcome contingencies when the environment changes. This simple illustration highlights how the normative framework for corticostriatal plasticity can be expanded to capture macroscopic network dynamics during learning and decision‐making.
Degradation of Al2O3f/SiO2 composites exposed to Na2SO4 environment and MMH/N2O4 bipropellants test
Authors: Yang Xiang , Jin Wen , Yi Wang , Cheng‐xin Zhu , Yu‐lin Zhu , Rong‐jun Liu , Feng Cao
Published: April 2020

Al2O3f/SiO2 composites were fabricated efficiently using sol‐gel process. The degradation behavior exposed to Na2SO4 environment at 1100℃ and MMH/N2O4 bipropellants test were investigated and compared. The results showed that the strength of Al2O3f/SiO2 composites gradually decreased as the ratio of Na2SO4:water increased; the strength of the composites was only 23.56 MPa at 20% (Na2SO4:water), which suggested that the composites maintained lower strength. Cracks began to appear in SiO2 matrix, and the structure of Al2O3f/SiO2 composites could be corroded which would corrode the SiO2 matrix, leaving naked fibers. Developing a protective layer with higher stability for Al2O3f/SiO2 composites would be considered for long time use. The composites showed higher ablation resistance to MMH/N2O4 bipropellant test; the flexural strength was (77.15 ± 4.56) MPa and the retention ratio was 98.7%. The degradation of Al2O3f/SiO2 composites was promoted owing to the thermal‐mechanical and chemical factors. SiO2 matrix became weak and fragile at elevated temperature; some SiO2 matrix became loosened and porous after being washed away through the shearing of MMH/N2O4 bipropellants, which prevented cracks from penetrating Al2O3 fibers. With ongoing test, the fibers were worsened by thermal‐mechanical corrosion.
Rhetorical structure, sequence, and variation: A step‐driven move analysis of applied linguistics conference abstracts
Authors: Yoon Jungwan , Casal J. Elliott
Published: April 2020

English for Academic Purposes (EAP) practitioners have widely adopted Swales' (1990) move analysis to investigate the rhetorical construction of various academic genres, particularly research article part‐genres. While this research has deepened our understanding of academic genre practices, advances in move analysis methods have uncovered important research considerations. Following Moreno and Swales' (2018) advocacy for step‐level analysis, the current study presents a move‐step framework and systematic rhetorical move‐step analysis of 625 conference abstracts accepted to the 2017 American Association of Applied Linguistics Conference. Findings reveal that five of the seven moves in the resulting framework were highly frequent, and two dominant move‐sequence patterns emerged. The findings can provide EAP instructors and students with useful insights into discursive and rhetorical practices associated with the genre.
Nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and preparedness to manage women with intimate partner violence
Authors: Alhalal E.
Published: April 2020

Aim

To investigate nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and practices related to intimate partner violence among women in Saudi Arabian healthcare settings.

Background

There is a global focus on abuse experiences in clinical settings. However, nurses’ practice in managing intimate partner violence patients in Saudi healthcare settings has not yet been examined.

Introduction

Intimate partner violence is a health issue that can lead to mortality and morbidity. It has recently received attention in an Arabian context. Thus, scrutinizing nurses’ role in responding to intimate partner violence patients is needed to fill a current gap.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 114 nurses from two hospitals in Saudi Arabia using a questionnaire.

Results

Minimal previous intimate partner violence training was reported, as 63% of nurses had not received training related to intimate partner violence, and 52% believed that they did not receive adequate training to respond to intimate partner violence survivors. The results show that nurses had both low perceived knowledge and low preparedness in managing intimate partner violence, and only had basic intimate partner violence knowledge. Results indicated that nurses did not have appropriate attitudes towards intimate partner violence. The majority were not aware about intimate partner violence protocols or policies in their institutions. Only 2.6% had diagnosed intimate partner violence in the last six months.

Conclusion

There were gaps in nurses’ perceived preparedness, knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. There was also limited training and preparation for nurses to assess and address intimate partner violence.

Implications for nursing and health policy

The study suggests the need for clear institutional health policies related to detecting, responding to, and preventing intimate partner violence. Guidelines about integrating intimate partner violence in nursing curricula and implementing in‐service training should be developed and implemented. A multi‐level intervention that enables nurses to respond to intimate partner violence is also needed.
Multinational corporations as institutional entrepreneurs: the dynamic interplay between automobile firms and the Turkish vocational education and training system
Authors: Tasli‐Karabulut Vildan , Keizer Arjan
Published: April 2020

This article analyses the two‐way relationship between multinational companies (MNCs) and Turkey's vocational education and training system through case studies of Japanese and German MNCs in the automotive industry. Drawing on semistructured interviews, it addresses the initiatives the MNCs have taken to guarantee skilled employees and their interaction with the Turkish vocational education and training system. The analysis shows how the MNCs have been ‘institutional entrepreneurs’ by introducing new practices. This was possible as the host environment has been open to change but also a requirement where strong industrial relations systems constituted an essential but missing home country institution.
Information systems in research and development: the technological gatekeeper reconsidered
Authors: Myers Lewis A.
Published: April 2020

This paper reports on a field study designed to examine the relationship of personal, professional, organizational, and sociometric factors with the selection potential of a research professional as a source of information by his laboratory colleagues. The selection potential of individual research professionals was measured on three categories of scientific and technological information (the criterion variables). These categories are: project‐task information, state‐of‐the‐art information, and research‐laboratory‐technique information. Concurrent measurements were obtained for thirty predictor variables that include: demographic descriptors, interpersonal communication descriptors, organizational factors, sociometric preference factors, and architectural factors. Models for each of the criterion variables were developed in an attempt to identify and analyze characteristics of the technological gatekeeper and his environment. The results of this study support the premise that there are specialist gatekeepers for each different category of scientific and technological information communicated in the R&D laboratory as contrasted with earlier studies that defined technological gatekeepers as global information gatekeepers for all categories of information. The paper concludes with some general comments on the implications for management.
Predictors of resilience among adolescent disaster survivors: A path analysis
Authors: Laksmita Okki D. , Chung Min‐Huey , Liao Yuan‐Mei , Haase Joan E. , Chang Pi‐Chen
Published: April 2020

Aims

To investigate a theoretical model of risk and protective factors to predict resilience among adolescent disaster survivors.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Parent's consent and student's informed consent forms were distributed at seven schools in a postdisaster setting (Yogyakarta, Indonesia) between July–October 2017; those who agreed to participate had to complete the self‐reported questionnaires. Demographic data were evaluated using descriptive statistical analyses and relationships among study variables were determined using a path analysis.

Results

Results of the model test analysis indicated that six of the seven the hypothesized paths were supported by data from our samples and demonstrated significance on the path coefficients (p < .01). One path coefficient on the association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and resilience was found to be insignificant (β = −0.002, p > .05). However, overall, our hypothesized model was retained, indicating empirical support and adequate model's fit indices for the theoretical model.

Conclusions

Overall, the findings demonstrated the predictive roles of risk and protective factors in adolescent disaster survivors’ resilience.

Impact

Resilience is known to be an important concept in recovering from long‐term impacts following a disaster in adolescent populations, but its risk and protective factors have not been adequately explored. We found that PTSD symptoms influenced how adolescent disaster survivors developed defensive coping, social support had an indirect effect on resilience through courageous coping and defensive coping acted as a mediator between PTSD symptoms and courageous coping. These findings can help mental health professionals (i.e., community mental health nurses) promote intervention strategies to enhance resilience through improving coping skills in adolescent populations exposed to a disaster.
Epidermal growth factor regulation by autophagy‐mediated lncRNA H19 in murine intestinal tract after severe burn
Authors: Li Cuijie , Zhuang Mengmeng , Zhu Bo , Li Ye , Zhang Wenwen , Yan Hao , Zhang Pan , Li Dan , Yang Juan , Sun Yuan , Chen Haijun , Cui Qingwei , Jin Peisheng , Sun Yong
Published: April 2020

To investigate the regulation of epidermal growth factor (EGF) by autophagy‐mediated long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 in the intestinal tracts of severely burned mice. C57BL/6J mice received third‐degree burns to 30% of the total body surface area. Rapamycin and 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) were used to activate and inhibit autophagy, and the changes in LC3 and Beclin1 levels were assessed by Western blotting. The effect of autophagy on lncRNA H19 was detected by qRT‐PCR. Adenovirus‐mediated overexpression of lncRNA H19 in IEC‐6 cells was used to assess the effects of lncRNA H19 on EGF and let‐7g via bioinformatics analysis, Western blotting and qRT‐PCR. let‐7g mimic/inhibitor was used to overexpress/inhibit let‐7g, and qRT‐PCR and Western blotting were used to detect the effects of let‐7g on EGF. The expression levels of LC3‐II, Beclin1 and lncRNA H19 were increased in intestinal tissues and IEC‐6 cells after rapamycin treatment but were reversed after 3‐MA treatment. LC3‐II, Beclin1 and lncRNA H19 levels increased in intestinal tissues after the burn, and these increases were more significant after rapamycin treatment but decreased after 3‐MA treatment. The lncRNA H19 overexpression in IEC‐6 cells resulted in increased and decreased expression levels of EGF and let‐7g, respectively. Furthermore, overexpression and inhibition of let‐7g resulted in decreased and increased expression of EGF, respectively. Taken together, intestinal autophagy is activated after a serious burn, which can increase the transcription level of lncRNA H19. lncRNA H19 may regulate the repair of EGF via let‐7g following intestinal mucosa injury after a burn.
Chronic pain, cardiovascular health and related medication use in ageing African Americans with osteoarthritis
Authors: Booker Staja Q. , Content Virginia G.
Published: April 2020

Aim and objectives

To describe the (a) prevalence and perceptions of cardiovascular disease and related health conditions in African Americans with osteoarthritis pain, (b) their knowledge of cardiovascular safety of commonly prescribed analgesics for osteoarthritis and (c) frequency of high‐risk analgesic use.

Background

African Americans have more disabling osteoarthritis pain and an excessive burden of cardiovascular disease than any other US racial group. However, minimal research has investigated the relationship between chronic pain and cardiovascular disease and subsequent medication knowledge and use in African Americans. Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative and Srengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology checklists were followed.

Design

A descriptive, secondary mixed‐methods analysis.

Methods

A convenience sample of 110 African American adults (50–94 years and older) completed surveys and individual qualitative interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi‐square or Fisher's exact test, t test, Mann–Whitney U and a qualitative content analysis.

Results

Hypertension was the most common cardiovascular condition reported, and African Americans with hypertension reported greater pain than those without. The survey questions revealed that most participants did not possess accurate knowledge about the appropriateness of analgesics in heart failure and other cardiovascular‐related diseases; however, during the interviews, some did acknowledge a general understanding of the negative effects of some medications. Still, many older adults were taking nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs despite having hypertension.

Conclusions

There was evidence of multimorbidity in our sample; based on our data, chronic osteoarthritis pain and hypertension are two highly comorbid conditions, suggesting a possible syndemic. More disparate is the lack of knowledge that African Americans possess as it relates to safe use of analgesic medications when cardiovascular disease is present.

Relevance to clinical practice

Chronic pain and cardiovascular‐related diseases are common and often co‐occur and should be evaluated in all older adults, particularly African Americans. Both issues are important to manage, including the safe and appropriate use of medications, to prevent adverse effects.
Drug repositioning: a brief overview
Authors: Jourdan Jean-Pierre , Bureau Ronan , Rochais Christophe , Dallemagne Patrick
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Drug repositioning, that is, the use of a drug in an indication other than the one for which it was initially marketed, is a growing trend. Its origins lie mainly in the attrition experienced in recent years in the field of new drug discovery.

Key findings

Despite some regulatory and economic challenges, drug repositioning offers many advantages, and a number of recent successes have confirmed both its public health benefits and its commercial value. The first examples of successful drug repositioning mainly came about through serendipity like acetylsalicylic acid, thalidomide, sildenafil or dimethylfumarate.

Conclusion

The history of great-repositioned drugs has given some solutions to various pathologies. Serendipity is not yet useful to find repositioning drugs. Drug repositioning is of growing interest. Nowadays, a more rational approach to the identification of drug candidates for repositioning is possible, especially using data mining.
Renal safety of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and entecavir with hepatitis B immunoglobulin in liver transplant patients
Authors: Lee Juhan , Park Jun Yong , Yang Seok Jeong , Lee Jee Youn , Kim Deok Gie , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo , Kim Soon Il , Lee Jae Geun
Published: April 2020

Potent nucleos(t)ide analogues and hepatitis B immunoglobulin combinations are recommended after liver transplantation to prevent the recurrence of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Despite its proven efficacy, the renal safety of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) has not been well established in liver transplant recipients. We aimed to assess the impacts of TDF and entecavir (ETV) on tubular and glomerular functions. We analysed 206 liver transplant patients treated with TDF (n = 102) or ETV (n = 104) plus hepatitis B immunoglobulin. Serum creatinine, phosphate and uric acid levels were measured. Proximal tubular dysfunction was defined as the presence of hypophosphatemia (<2 mg/dL) and hypouricemia (<2 mg/dL). Glomerular dysfunction was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 accompanied by a ≥25% eGFR decline from baseline. During a median follow‐up of 42.5 months, 48 patients developed proximal tubular dysfunction (30.4% and 16.3% in the TDF and ETV groups; P = .017). Serum levels of phosphate and uric acid were significantly lower in the TDF group post‐LT. TDF (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.16‐4.69; P = .017) and low body mass index (OR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.06‐4.21; P = .034) were independent risk factors for proximal tubular dysfunction. The prevalence of glomerular dysfunction was not significantly different between the two groups (TDF 51.0% and ETV 54.8%; P = .582). TDF significantly increased the risk of proximal tubular dysfunction. Although the effect of TDF on glomerular function was comparable to that of ETV, glomerular dysfunction was common after liver transplant.
Alarming India‐wide phenomenon of antifungal resistance in dermatophytes: A multicentre study
Authors: Ebert Andreas , Monod Michel , Salamin Karine , Burmester Anke , Uhrlaß Silke , Wiegand Cornelia , Hipler Uta‐Christina , Krüger Constanze , Koch Daniela , Wittig Franziska , Verma Shyam B. , Singal Archana , Gupta Sanjeev , Vasani Resham , Saraswat Abir , Madhu Rengarajan , Panda Saumya , Das Anupam , Kura Mahendra M. , Kumar Akshy , Poojary Shital , Schirm Sibylle , Gräser Yvonne , Paasch Uwe , Nenoff Pietro
Published: April 2020

Background

An alarming increase in recalcitrant dermatophytosis has been witnessed in India over the past decade. Drug resistance may play a major role in this scenario.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of in vitro resistance to terbinafine, itraconazole and voriconazole in dermatophytes, and to identify underlying mutations in the fungal squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene.

Patients/Methods

We analysed skin samples from 402 patients originating from eight locations in India. Fungi were identified by microbiological and molecular methods, tested for antifungal susceptibility (terbinafine, itraconazole, voriconazole), and investigated for missense mutations inSQLE.

Results

Trichophyton (T.) mentagrophytesinternal transcribed spacer (ITS) Type VIII was found in 314 (78%) samples. Eighteen (5%) samples harboured species identified up to theT interdigitale/mentagrophytescomplex, andT rubrumwas detected in 19 (5%) samples. 71% of isolates were resistant to terbinafine. The amino acid substitution Phe397Leu in the squalene epoxidase of resistantT mentagrophyteswas highly prevalent (91%). Two novel substitutions in resistantTrichophytonstrains, Ser395Pro and Ser443Pro, were discovered. The substitution Ala448Thr was found in terbinafine‐sensitive and terbinafine‐resistant isolates but was associated with increased MICs of itraconazole and voriconazole.

Conclusions

The high frequencies of terbinafine resistance in dermatophytes are worrisome and demand monitoring and further research. Squalene epoxidase substitutions between Leu393 and Ser443 could serve as markers of resistance in the future.
Stratigraphic hierarchy and three‐dimensional evolution of an exhumed submarine slope channel system
Authors: Bell Daniel , Hodgson David M. , Pontén Anna S. M. , Hansen Larissa A. S. , Flint Stephen S. , Kane Ian A.
Published: April 2020

Submarine slope channel systems have complicated three‐dimensional geometries and facies distributions, which are challenging to resolve using subsurface data. Outcrop analogues can provide sub‐seismic‐scale detail, although most exhumed systems only afford two‐dimensional constraints on the depositional architecture. A rare example of an accessible fine‐grained slope channel complex set situated in a tectonically quiescent basin that offers seismic‐scale, down‐dip and across‐strike exposures is the Klein Hangklip area, Tanqua‐Karoo Basin, South Africa. This study investigates the three‐dimensional architecture of this channel complex set to characterise the stratigraphic evolution of a submarine channel‐fill and the implications this has for both sediment transport to the deep‐oceans and reservoir quality distribution. Correlated sedimentary logs and mapping of key surfaces across a 3 km2 area reveal that: (i) the oldest channel elements in channel complexes infill relatively deep channel cuts and have low aspect‐ratios. Later channel elements are bound by comparatively flat erosion surfaces and have high aspect‐ratios; (ii) facies changes across depositional strike are consistent and predictable; conversely, facies change in successive down depositional dip positions indicating longitudinal variability in depositional processes; (iii) stratigraphic architecture is consistent and predictable at seismic‐scale both down‐dip and across‐strike in three‐dimensions; (iv) channel‐base‐deposits exhibit spatial heterogeneity on one to hundreds of metres length‐scales, which can inhibit accurate recognition and interpretations drawn from one‐dimensional or limited two‐dimensional datasets; and (v) channel‐base‐deposit character is linked to sediment bypass magnitude and longevity, which suggests that time‐partitioning is biased towards conduit excavation and maintenance rather than the fill‐phase. The data provide insights into the stratigraphic evolution and architecture of slope channel‐fills on fine‐grained continental margins and can be utilised to improve predictions derived from lower resolution and one‐dimensional well data.
The upper Miocene diatomaceous sediments of the northernmost Mediterranean region: A lamina‐scale investigation of an overlooked palaeoceanographic archive
Authors: Pellegrino Luca , Dela Pierre Francesco , Jordan Richard W. , Abe Kenta , Mikami Yuta , Natalicchio Marcello , Gennari Rocco , Lozar Francesca , Carnevale Giorgio
Published: April 2020

During the late Miocene the Mediterranean experienced a dramatic intensification of opaline accumulation, recorded by the deposition of diatomaceous sediments. The fine lamination of these deposits potentially records annual to sub‐annual palaeoceanographic processes that occurred during a critical phase of the geodynamic evolution of the Mediterranean basin, which eventually led to the Messinian salinity crisis. The diatomaceous facies has been interpreted by previous researchers as the product of intensified upwelling currents and of bottom anoxia formation in the Mediterranean basin. However, until now, no efforts have been made to unravel the sedimentological and micropalaeontological content of these deposits at the lamina‐scale. This paper presents the first case study of a systematic scanning electron microscope‐based morphological investigation of the diatomaceous sediments deposited during the late Miocene at the northernmost offshoot of the Mediterranean basin (Piedmont Basin, north‐west Italy). Using a non‐invasive analytical approach, six faciological components (laminae, laminated packets, non‐laminated intervals, burrows, opal‐rich aggregates and mixed pelletal structures) and their relationships are described and interpreted herein. Following the lamina‐scale study of these sediments, an annual sedimentary cycle could be identified and an accumulation rate (ca 50 cm kyr−1) inferred that is atypical for a setting actively influenced by upwelling. The role played by the entanglement of diatom valves in creating a physical barrier to the bioturbation is here emphasized as the main process responsible for the preservation of the laminated fabric of diatomaceous sediments, challenging the supposed role of deep anoxia. These results suggest that the late Miocene diatomaceous deposition in the Piedmont Basin cannot be univocally considered as a by‐product of upwelling intensification and seafloor oxygen depletion.
The use of aluminium hydroxide as adjuvant modulates the specific antibody response—A Brown Norway rat study with native and denatured cow's milk allergens
Authors: Bøgh Katrine Lindholm , Andreasen Mie Scharff , Madsen Charlotte Bernhard
Published: April 2020

There is a need for efficient methods to treat food allergy; however, no immunotherapeutic method has yet been satisfactory due to the high rate of unpredictable severe reactions and the limited efficacy. Therefore, modified versions of food allergens have been suggested as alternatives to the parent proteins for immunotherapy. The aim of the study was to compare the inherent allergenicity of the native and denatured version of the cow's milk proteins β‐lactoglobulin and α‐lactalbumin, and to study the impact of the use of Al(OH)3 as an adjuvant. Brown Norway rats were immunized intraperitoneally with either native or denatured β‐lactoglobulin or α‐lactalbumin, with or without the use of Al(OH)3 as adjuvant. Antibody responses were analysed in various ways by means of different ELISAs. Both the immunogenicity and the sensitizing capacity of the cow's milk allergens were influenced by their globular folding, with the native version being more allergenic than the denatured counterpart. The native folded proteins mainly raised antibodies against conformational epitope, whereas the denatured versions predominantly raised antibodies against linear epitopes. Most interestingly, the study showed that the use of Al(OH)3, besides increasing immunogenicity and sensitizing capacity of the cow's milk allergens, caused a modification of the specificity of the antibodies raised against the native version of the proteins. Adsorption of the native forms of the allergens to Al(OH)3 caused a significant greater proportion of antibodies raised against linear epitopes, stressing that the adsorption induced a partly unfolding of the proteins. This may have implications for IT safety and efficacy.
Frequency and classification of errors in laboratory medicine at a veterinary teaching hospital in the United States
Authors: Whipple Kellie M. , Leissinger Mary K. , Beatty Sarah S.
Published: April 2020

Background

The accuracy of laboratory data is of utmost importance. Data regarding laboratory error in human laboratories are often extrapolated into veterinary settings. One study investigated the rate and type of errors in a European commercial veterinary laboratory, but that data might not directly apply to an educational setting.

Objectives

This study determined the frequency and type of errors in laboratory medicine at a veterinary teaching hospital.

Methods

Errors associated with clinical pathology samples were recorded over two 60‐day periods. The first period included a time when new students and house officers started at the veterinary school. The second time period was 6 months later. The errors were assigned to categories, and the frequency of each was calculated. Sample hemolysis, icterus, and lipemia were evaluated separately using an automated index, as these conditions could be pathologic or the result of error. Frequencies of error and hemolysis, icterus, and lipemia were assessed between the groups.

Results

Total error rates were 4.7% and 3.5% for the first and second periods, respectively. The frequency of each error subclassification was similar to those observed in the veterinary and human literature, with preanalytic error predominating. Statistically significant differences in the overall error rate and percentage of preanalytic errors that occurred outside of and within the laboratory were observed comparing differences between the two periods.

Conclusions

The overall error rate in this veterinary teaching hospital was slightly higher than that previously reported in other settings, although a proportion of errors was as expected. Areas needing improvement were identified, and strategies to reduce error could be developed.