bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomics analysis of growth inhibition of Lactobacillus plantarum under ethanol stress
Authors: Chen Xiaoqian , Wang Tingting , Jin Man , Tan Ying , Liu Libo , Liu Lihua , Li Chun , Yang Yuzhuo , Du Peng
Published: June 2020

This experiment investigated the changes in morphology, cell membrane permeability and intracellular metabolites of Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) under different concentrations of ethanol stress. It was found that when treated with ethanol at the concentration of 8% (v/v), L. plantarum mortality was close to 60%, and the surface of cell was rough and collapsed, and the cell debris is obvious. The extracellular β‐galactosidase activity increased to 1.24 and 1.73 times higher as compared to the control group after 6% (v/v) and 8% (v/v) ethanol stress, respectively. The inhibition of bacterial growth was positively correlated with its concentration. Ethanol stress can cause changes in cell morphology and membrane permeability of L. plantarum, causing physiological damage to cells. Metabolomics analysis revealed that the ethanol stress led to the inhibition of primary metabolic pathways through the suppression of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and glycolysis. It is therefore proposed that the inhibition effect of ethanol on L. plantarum is achieved by inducing intracellular metabolic imbalance via disruption of cell membrane functions.

Importance

Lactobacillus plantarum is often subjected to ethanol stress during food processing, production and storage, thus inhibiting the growth of bacteria. However, the detailed inhibition mechanism of ethanol on L. plantarum has not been deeply studied on metabolomics analysis. By measuring the changes of intracellular metabolites under ethanol stress, we found that ethanol destroyed the function of the membrane by changing the membrane structure, which hindered the carbon metabolism in the cell centre and reduced the vitality of bacteria. The results made a contribution for improvement of the target strain physiological and the strain industrial utility under ethanol stress.
Flow cytometry in the diagnosis of mature B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Debord Camille , Wuillème Soraya , Eveillard Marion , Theisen Olivier , Godon Catherine , Le Bris Yanick , Béné Marie C.
Published: June 2020

B‐lineage lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) are rather frequent diseases, associated with specific clinical or biological features but also sometimes of fortuitous discovery. Multiparameter flow cytometry plays a major role for a rapid diagnostic indication, on peripheral blood or bone marrow samples in most instances, guiding complementary analyses and allowing for the proper therapeutic management of patients. After describing the important pre‐analytical precautions required for an adequate assessment, the immunophenotypic features of small‐cell and large‐cell lymphomas are described in this review. The ubiquitous expression of CD19 is a first mandatory gating step. A possible clonal proliferation is then suspected by the demonstration of surface immunoglobulin light chain restriction. The aberrant presence of CD5 allows to segregate chronic lymphocytic leukemia and mantle cell lymphoma in most cases. Other LPD exhibit specific immunophenotypic features. A table of useful markers and a decision tree are provided. Of note, immunophenotypic data should as much as possible be interpreted in an integrated manner, involving the patient's clinical and other biological features, and be completed by further chromosomal and/or molecular investigations.
Testing for antiphospholipid antibodies: Advances and best practices
Authors: Devreese Katrien M. J.
Published: June 2020

The diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) relies on the detection of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Currently, lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin (aCL), and antibeta2‐glycoprotein I antibodies (aβ2GPI) IgG or IgM are included as laboratory criteria if persistently present. Progress has been made on the standardization of tests as guidelines on LAC testing and immunological assays for aCL and aβ2GPI are published. However, LAC measurement remains a complicated procedure with many pitfalls and interfered by anticoagulant therapy. Solid‐phase assays for aCL and aβ2GPI still show interassay differences. These methodological issues make the laboratory diagnosis of APS challenging. In the interpretation of aPL results, antibody profiles help in identifying patients at risk. Noncriteria aPL, such as antibodies against the domain I of beta2‐glycoprotein (aDI) and antiphosphatidylserine‐prothrombin (aPS/PT) antibodies have been studied in the last years and may be useful in risk stratification of APS patients. But, aDI and aPS/PT are not included in the current diagnostic criteria and testing in daily practice is not recommended as these antibodies have no added value in the diagnosis of APS. This review will focus on the technical aspects of the laboratory methods, the clinical relevance of assays and interpretation of aPL results in the diagnosis of APS.
Hot topics in coagulation testing: Important considerations for testing children for bleeding/thrombotic disorders
Authors: Rahman Marzia , George Carly , Monagle Paul
Published: June 2020

The accurate use and interpretation of diagnostic investigations are essential for safe and effective patient care. Appropriate application and interpretation of coagulation testing can be challenging, and many controversies exist relating to the standardization of testing procedures, the application of relevant tests to different patient populations and the interpretation of test results. We present a list of the most prominent controversies in coagulation testing and have selected three specific examples (age‐appropriate reference ranges, therapeutic anticoagulation monitoring and tests of thrombin generation) for closer discussion, highlighting examples with a paediatric framework. We discuss the limitations of discrete age‐partitioned reference intervals, given the established principle of developmental haemostasis; the difficulties in establishing normative data across different laboratories; important pre‐analytical variables affecting coagulation testing; the challenges in interpreting APTT and anti‐Xa assays for monitoring unfractionated heparin therapy in different clinical situations; and the limitations in interpreting tests of thrombin generation due to current available thrombin‐specific substrates and the complicating factor of variable alpha2‐macroglobulin levels. These controversies are demonstrated using paediatric examples, but raise important implications for coagulation testing in patients of all ages and highlight the pressing need for further research in these areas.
Legal Perspectives on Solidarity Crime in Italy
Authors: Pusterla Francesca
Published: June 2020

This article investigates the political and legal dimension of Italian policy management of migratory crises affecting the European Union and member states. It pays particular attention to the tightening of migrant reception measures from 2016 until 2019. In this dynamic, it argues that the 132/18 governmental legislation “Decree‐Law on Immigration and Security” of 2018 (and the Decree‐Law bis of 2019) represents a breakthrough. The article reveals the shift of solidarity crime from a political to a legal dimension. The unprecedented movement of migrants and refugees into the EU has led to widespread claims for a EU common migratory policy based on international cooperation and equitable sharing of responsibilities. As a frontline member state, Dublin III prescribes to Italy responsibilities in rescue, first safe of migrants, and refugee status determination. Italy’s migration policy thus conflicts with its prior international legal commitments, and, for this reason, its concrete applicability is highly debated.
Research advances on neurite outgrowth inhibitor B receptor
Authors: Zhang Rui , Tang Bei‐sha , Guo Ji‐feng
Published: June 2020

Neurite outgrowth inhibitor‐B (Nogo‐B) is a membrane protein which is extensively expressed in multiple organs, especially in endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and belongs to the reticulon protein family. Notably, its specific receptor, Nogo‐B receptor (NgBR), encoded by NUS1, has been implicated in many crucial cellular processes, such as cholesterol trafficking, lipid metabolism, dolichol synthesis, protein N‐glycosylation, vascular remodelling, angiogenesis, tumorigenesis and neurodevelopment. In recent years, accumulating studies have demonstrated the statistically significant changes of NgBR expression levels in human diseases, including Niemann‐Pick type C disease, fatty liver, congenital disorders of glycosylation, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, invasive ductal breast carcinoma, malignant melanoma, non‐small cell lung carcinoma, paediatric epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. Besides, both the in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that NgBR overexpression or knockdown contribute to the alteration of various pathophysiological processes. Thus, there is a broad development potential in therapeutic strategies by modifying the expression levels of NgBR.
Use and abuse of regulated prices in electricity markets: “How to regulate regulated prices?”
Authors: Martimort David , Pouyet Jérôme , Staropoli Carine
Published: June 2020

We consider the regulation of the tariffs charged by a public utility in the electricity sector. Consumers differ in terms of their privately known demands. When regulating a firm's tariffs, the government is concerned by the redistribution across consumer classes. A conflict between redistribution and screening induces pricing distortions when the firm is a monopoly. Introducing competition with an unregulated fringe improves efficiency but jeopardizes redistribution. In response to this problem, the government may now want to manipulate information about the incumbent's cost to restrict entry and better promote its own redistributive objective. To prevent such obstacle to entry, the government's discretion in fixing the incumbent's regulated tariffs should be restricted by imposing floors or caps on those tariffs and/or by controlling the market share left to the competitive fringe. We highlight the determinants of such limits on discretion and unveil to what extent they depend on the government's redistributive concerns.
Sustainability assessment of a novel micro solar thermal: Biomass heat and power plant in Morocco
Authors: Herrera Israel , Rodríguez‐Serrano Irene , Garrain Daniel , Lechón Yolanda , Oliveira Armando
Published: June 2020

Novel renewable energy technologies in the Middle East and North Africa region can be developed through microgeneration systems aiming to supply local energy demands in a sustainable way. In this study, we carried out a sustainability assessment combining two reputable methodologies which have been applied to a facility comprising a hybrid solar/biomass micro‐cogeneration organic ranking cycle system located in Morocco. We first applied a multiregional input–output analysis where economic issues such as the production of goods and services generated in all project's phases, as well as the added value and employment created, are estimated. Then, environmental impacts were assessed through a life cycle assessment (LCA). In terms of socioeconomic analysis, the total production of goods and services shows a value of 1.18 €2015/kWh. The added value and employment creation were 0.56 €2015/kWh and 0.05 full‐time employees/MWh, respectively. The levelized cost of electricity results in 0.218 €2015/kWh and the multiplier effect amounts to 2.26. The largest increase in sectorial output is produced in the Moroccan electricity sector and the largest job creation takes place in the agriculture sector from the biomass supply. Regarding environmental results, LCA shows a climate change potential of 11.8 g CO2eq/kWhel, of which more than 70% comes from the boiler operation and specifically from the emissions due to biomass transportation. These results can help in promoting micro solar‐biomass systems in Morocco as they identify the socioeconomic and environmental benefits that can counterbalance the higher costs of such systems compared to fossil technologies.
Community Susceptibility and Resiliency to COVID‐19 Across the Rural‐Urban Continuum in the United States
Authors: Peters David J.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study creates a COVID‐19 susceptibility scale at the county level, describes its components, and then assesses the health and socioeconomic resiliency of susceptible places across the rural‐urban continuum.

Methods

Factor analysis grouped 11 indicators into 7 distinct susceptibility factors for 3,079 counties in the conterminous United States. Unconditional mean differences are assessed using a multivariate general linear model. Data from 2018 are primarily taken from the US Census Bureau and CDC.

Results

About 33% of rural counties are highly susceptible to COVID‐19, driven by older and health‐compromised populations, and care facilities for the elderly. Major vulnerabilities in rural counties include fewer physicians, lack of mental health services, higher disability, and more uninsured. Poor Internet access limits telemedicine. Lack of social capital and social services may hinder local pandemic recovery. Meat processing facilities drive risk in micropolitan counties. Although metropolitan counties are less susceptible due to healthier and younger populations, about 6% are at risk due to community spread from dense populations. Metropolitan vulnerabilities include minorities at higher health and diabetes risk, language barriers, being a transportation hub that helps spread infection, and acute housing distress.

Conclusions

There is an immediate need to know specific types of susceptibilities and vulnerabilities ahead of time to allow local and state health officials to plan and allocate resources accordingly. In rural areas it is essential to shelter‐in‐place vulnerable populations, whereas in large metropolitan areas general closure orders are needed to stop community spread. Pandemic response plans should address vulnerabilities.
Decline in prevalence of congenital sensorineural deafness in Dalmatian dogs in the United Kingdom
Authors: Lewis Tom , Freeman Julia , De Risio Luisa
Published: June 2020

Background

Congenital sensorineural deafness (CSD) is the most common type of deafness in Dalmatian dogs.

Objectives

To use results of CSD screening in Dalmatian dogs in the United Kingdom in genetic analysis and to determine any changes in the prevalence of CSD in this breed over time.

Animals

A total of 8955 Dalmatian puppies undergoing hearing function screening using brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) between July 1992 and February 2019.

Methods

Results of BAER testing and pigmentation phenotypic data were linked to the UK Kennel Club Dalmatian pedigree database. Mixed model analysis was used to estimate variance parameters.

Results

The overall prevalence of CSD was 17.8% (13.4%, unilateral; 4.4%, bilateral). Heritability of CSD was approximately 0.3 (across models) and significantly >0. Genetic correlations between CSD and blue irises (+0.6) and pigmented head patch (−0.86) were large in magnitude and significantly different form 0. Significant improving phenotypic and genetic trends were identified, likely as the result of selection against deafness, equivalent to avoiding breeding with the 4% to 5% of animals with the highest genetic risk of CSD.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A decrease in the prevalence and genetic risk of CSD implies breeders have been selecting for hearing dogs. Selective breeding based on estimated breeding values (EBVs) can help further decrease the prevalence of CSD in Dalmatians in the future.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of tildipirosin in rabbits following single‐dose intravenous and intramuscular administration
Authors: Xiong Jincheng , Xu Yuliang , He Shuang , Zhang Yanfang , Wang Zile , Wang Sihan , Jiang Haiyang
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of tildipirosin in rabbits after a single intravenous (i.v.) and intramuscular (i.m.) injection at a dose of 4 mg/kg. Twelve white New Zealand rabbits were assigned to a randomized, parallel trial design. Blood samples were collected prior to administration and up to 14 days postadministration. Plasma concentrations of tildipirosin were quantified using a validated ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method. The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a noncompartmental model in WinNonlin 5.2 software. Following i.v. and i.m. administration, the elimination half‐life (T1/2λ) was 81.17 ± 9.28 and 96.68 ± 15.37 hr, respectively, and the mean residence time (MRTlast) was 65.44 ± 10.89 and 67.06 ± 10.49 hr, respectively. After i.v. injection, the plasma clearance rate (Cl) and volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss) were 0.28 ± 0.10 L kg‐1 h−1 and 17.78 ± 5.15 L/kg, respectively. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and time to reach maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) after i.m. administration were 836.2 ± 117.9 ng/ml and 0.33 ± 0.17 hr, respectively. The absolute bioavailability of i.m. administration was 105.4%. Tildipirosin shows favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics in rabbits, with fast absorption, extensive distribution, and high bioavailability. These findings suggest that tildipirosin might be a potential drug for the prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases in rabbits.
Help‐seekers, Callers and Clients: Embodied History in China's psy‐boom
Authors: Bram Barclay
Published: June 2020

Ms. Zhou, Ms. Liu, and Ms. Wen represent three generations of psychological counselors in China. They all work in Chengdu, the provincial capital of Sichuan province. China is in the midst of what scholars call the “psy‐boom.” This is generally defined as the rapid rise in psychological services in the country. Rather than understanding this rise as a linear phenomenon or one in which the understanding of psychology and its uses are universally shared by all practitioners, these three therapists show how haphazard and staggered the uptake in psychological services has been. They also show how the different historical contexts and shifting qualification standards that defined their generation of the psy‐boom in turn shaped their therapeutic practice. The study uses Bourdieu's concept of the habitus to show how the embodied history of China's psy‐boom impacts the practice of counselling and understanding of psychology.
Beyond DNA barcoding: The unrealized potential of genome skim data in sample identification
Authors: Bohmann Kristine , Mirarab Siavash , Bafna Vineet , Gilbert M. Thomas P.
Published: June 2020

Genetic tools are increasingly used to identify and discriminate between species. One key transition in this process was the recognition of the potential of the ca 658bp fragment of the organelle cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) as a barcode region, which revolutionized animal bioidentification and lead, among others, to the instigation of the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD), containing currently barcodes from >7.9 million specimens. Following this discovery, suggestions for other organellar regions and markers, and the primers with which to amplify them, have been continuously proposed. Most recently, the field has taken the leap from PCR‐based generation of DNA references into shotgun sequencing‐based “genome skimming” alternatives, with the ultimate goal of assembling organellar reference genomes. Unfortunately, in genome skimming approaches, much of the nuclear genome (as much as 99% of the sequence data) is discarded, which is not only wasteful, but can also limit the power of discrimination at, or below, the species level. Here, we advocate that the full shotgun sequence data can be used to assign an identity (that we term for convenience its “DNA‐mark”) for both voucher and query samples, without requiring any computationally intensive pretreatment (e.g. assembly) of reads. We argue that if reference databases are populated with such “DNA‐marks,” it will enable future DNA‐based taxonomic identification to complement, or even replace PCR of barcodes with genome skimming, and we discuss how such methodology ultimately could enable identification to population, or even individual, level.
Clinical and laboratory features of female Gitelman syndrome and the pregnancy outcomes in a Chinese cohort
Authors: Zhang Lei , Peng Xiaoyan , Zhao Bingbin , Zhu Zhifeng , Wang Ying , Tian Dongli , Yan Zhaoli , Yao Li , Liu Juntao , Qiu Ling , Xing Xiaoping , Chen Limeng
Published: June 2020

Aim

Gitelman syndrome (GS) is a rare inherited salt‐losing renal tubulopathy. Data on clinical features and the pregnancy outcome for female GS patients in a large cohort are lacking. The study was aimed to explore the phenotype and pregnant issue for female GS patients.

Methods

GS cases from the National Rare Diseases Registry System of China (NRSC) were collected, and detailed clinical, laboratory and genetic data were analysed. Articles on pregnancy in GS were also systemically reviewed.

Results

A total of 101 GS patients were included; among them, 42.6% were female and 79.2% showed hypomagnesaemia. A lower proportion of female patients presented before 18 years of age, with less frequently reported polyuria, higher serum potassium and less urine sodium and chloride excretions. There was no gender difference in the sodium‐chloride cotransporter (NCC) dysfunction evaluated by hydrochlorothiazide test. Twelve of the 43 female GS patients delivered after disease symptom onset, and their pregnancies were generally uneventful. As a group, pregnant GS patients had lower potassium levels in the first‐trimester (P = .002) requiring higher potassium supplementation. After delivery, serum potassium (P = .02) and magnesium (P = .03) increased significantly. Both caesarean section and vaginal delivery were safe.

Conclusion

Female GS patients may have a less severe phenotype with generally favourable outcomes of pregnancy. Intensive monitoring and increased potassium supplementation are necessary during pregnancy, especially in the first‐trimester.
Nasolabial fold dynamics: Implications for facial paralysis and facial reanimation surgery
Authors: Dusseldorp Joseph R. , Faraway Julian , Razavi Lily , Hadlock Tessa A. , Trotman Carroll Ann
Published: June 2020

Objectives

In patients with facial paralysis, facial reanimation surgery may be needed to normalize facial soft tissue function/movements. Critical for this normalization is the dynamics of the nasolabial folds (NLFs). The objective of this prospective, observational study was to determine the 3D morphologic dynamics of the NLFs in patients with unilateral facial palsy and normal subjects.

Settings and Sample Population

3D facial soft tissue movement data collected from adults with unilateral, facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy, n = 36); and (2) an age‐ and sex‐frequency matched control group (n = 68).

Materials and methods

Movement data were collected during repeated animations from participants using a video‐based motion capture system. Movement in terms of displacement and asymmetry of the NLFs, nasal and circumoral regions were analyzed in the lateral, vertical and depth planes; as well as movement of the commissure and NLFs relative to the lower lip midline. Two‐sample t tests were used to test for significant group differences.

Results

Patients NLFs had less mean displacement, greater mean asymmetry and uncoordinated movements compared with the controls. For both groups during smiling, the NLF and commissure landmarks had approximately similar magnitudes of displacement (control range = 11‐14mm; patient range = 7‐10mm).

Conclusion

NLF dynamics during smiling were as significant as oral commissure excursion. Thus, an immobile NLF is an unnatural feature of facial animations. Surgical treatments that address impaired NFL movements must be considered to create a more natural surgical outcome especially during smiling.
Low prevalence of arrhythmias in clinically stable COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Sala Simone , Peretto Giovanni , De Luca Giacomo , Farina Nicola , Campochiaro Corrado , Tresoldi Moreno , Dagna Lorenzo , Zangrillo Alberto , Gulletta Simone , Della Bella Paolo
Published: June 2020

Background

No studies investigated the prevalence of arrhythmias among clinically‐stable patients affected by COVID‐19 infection.

Methods

We assessed prevalence, type, and burden of arrhythmias, by a single‐day snapshot in seven non‐intensive COVID Units at a third‐level center.

Results

We enrolled 132 inhospital patients (mean age 65±14y; 66% males) newly diagnosed with COVID‐19 infection. Arrhythmic episodes were detected in 12 patients (9%). In detail, 8 had atrial fibrillation, and 4 self‐limiting supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. There were no cases of ventricular arrhythmias or new‐onset atrioventricular blocks. In addition, we report no patients with QTc interval >450 ms.

Conclusions

Our single‐day snapshot survey suggests that the prevalence of arrhythmias among clinically stable COVID‐19 patients is low. In particular, no life‐threatening arrhythmic events occurred.
Surgical and endoscopic management of a pericardioesophageal fistula after radiofrequency pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Siroky Gregory P. , Niazi Kareem , Ghaly Aziz , Kahaleh Michel , Tyberg Amy , Langenfeld John , Kostis William J. , Kassotis John , Coromilas James , Saluja Deepak
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The most feared complication of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an atrioesophageal fistula (AEF). While rare (0.1‐0.25%), primary surgical closure (as opposed to esophageal stenting) is associated with lower mortality. Pericardioesophageal fistula (PEF) may present prior to fistulization into the atrium. Unfortunately, data on the optimal management of PEFs are lacking.

Case report

Seventy‐one‐year‐old male with AF presented with chest pain 3 weeks after radiofrequency PVI. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) chest and echocardiogram showed pneumopericardium. Barium esophagram showed extravasation from esophagus into the pericardium without connection to the left atrium. Sternotomy with mediastinal exploration exposed the pericardial defect, over which a CorMatrix patch was placed. The fistula was then stented endoscopically with endosuture fixation. Poststent esophagram did not show barium leak, and the patient was discharged home. One week later, the patient returned with enterococcal and candida bacteremia and an acute right parietal/occipital lobe infarct. Barium esophagram showed contrast extravasation into the pericardium. The patient rapidly succumbed to his illness and died. Autopsy revealed pericardial abscess posterior to the LA in communication with the esophagus. Extension to the LA was not seen.

Conclusion

While the surgical treatment of AEF is relatively well established, there is no consensus in the management of PEF. While prior small series have suggested PEF may be managed with esophageal stenting, our case illustrates the limitations of this approach.
Longevity and Utilization Cost of Rechargeable and Non‐Rechargeable Spinal Cord Stimulation Implants: A Comparative Study
Authors: Costandi Shrif , Mekhail Nagy , Azer Gerges , Mehanny Diana Sue , Hanna Demiana , Salma Yustina , Bolash Robert , Saweris Youssef
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Despite major advancements in features and capabilities of the implantable pulse generator (IPG), real‐life longevity and cost‐effectiveness studies to guide pain specialists to make the appropriate choice between rechargeable and non‐rechargeable IPG are limited. Our study aimed to compare the longevity and cost effectiveness of rechargeable vs. non‐rechargeable IPG and SCS systems.

Methods

Data were collected for all SCS implantations performed between 1994 and 2018. The primary goal was to determine IPG longevity, defined as the time interval between IPG implantation and elective replacement due to IPG end of life (EOL). On the other hand, SCS system longevity was defined as the time between SCS implantation and its removal or revision for any reason other than IPG EOL. Kaplan‐Meier and log‐rank tests were used to assess IPG and SCS system longevities. Cost analysis was performed for cost effectiveness.

Results

The median IPG longevity was significantly higher for rechargeable SCS devices than for non‐rechargeable SCS devices (7.20 years and 3.68 years, respectively). The median cost per day was similar for both IPGs, $13.90 and $13.81 for non‐rechargeable and rechargeable, respectively. The median cost for SCS systems was higher for the rechargeable group ($60.70) compared with the non‐rechargeable group ($31.38).

Conclusions

Rechargeable IPG had increased longevity compared to their non‐rechargeable counterparts, yet there was no significant difference in the actual longevity due to premature revisions or explantations between both SCS systems. Furthermore, non‐rechargeable SCS systems were found to be the more cost‐effective option when compared with rechargeable SCS systems.
The acceptability, effectiveness, and durability of cognitive analytic therapy: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hallam Craig , Simmonds‐Buckley Melanie , Kellett Stephen , Greenhill Beth , Jones Andrew
Published: June 2020

Objectives

This paper sought to conduct a meta‐analysis of the effectiveness and durability of cognitive analytic therapy (CAT) and assess the acceptability of CAT in terms of dropout rates.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

PROSPERO registration: CRD42018086009. Searches identified CAT treatment outcome studies eligible to be narratively synthesized. Pre–post/post‐follow‐up effect sizes (ESs) were extracted and synthesized in a random‐effects meta‐analysis. Variations in effect sizes were explored using moderator analyses. Dropout rates were extracted. Secondary analyses synthesized between‐group ES from trials of CAT.

Results

Twenty‐five studies providing pre–post CAT treatment outcomes were aggregated across three outcome comparisons of functioning, depression, and interpersonal problems. CAT produced large pre–post improvements in global functioning (ES = 0.86; 95% CI 0.71–1.01, N = 628), moderate‐to‐large improvements in interpersonal problems (ES = 0.74, 95% CI 0.51–0.97, N = 460), and large reductions in depression symptoms (ES = 1.05, 95% CI 0.80–1.29, N = 586). All these effects were maintained or improved upon at follow‐up. Limited moderators of CAT treatment effect were identified. CAT demonstrated small–moderate, significant post‐treatment benefits compared to comparators in nine clinical trials (ES = 0.36–0.53; N = 352). The average dropout rate for CAT was 16% (range 0–33%).

Conclusions

Patients with a range of presenting problems appear to experience durable improvements in their difficulties after undergoing CAT. Recommendations are provided to guide the further progression of the CAT outcome evidence base.

Practitioner points

Large pre–post reductions in global functioning and depression outcomes and moderate–large reductions in interpersonal problems are evident after CAT.

The effects of CAT appear durable, and interpersonal functioning significantly improves over follow‐up time.

CAT produces small–moderate benefits compared to trial comparators.

CAT appears to be an engaging psychotherapy that maintains patients in treatment.
Pediatric dermatology eConsults: Reduced wait times and dermatology office visits
Authors: Seiger Kira , Hawryluk Elena B. , Kroshinsky Daniela , Kvedar Joseph C. , Das Shinjita
Published: June 2020

Background/Objectives

Store‐and‐forward teledermatology provides pediatricians with specialist guidance in managing skin disease. This study evaluates wait times and face‐to‐face (FTF) dermatology visit avoidance associated with a pediatric dermatology eConsult program at an urban academic medical center.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, electronic medical records were reviewed for patients under age 18 for whom a dermatology eConsult was completed between November 1, 2014, and December 31, 2017. Wait times for eConsult completion and initial FTF dermatology appointments were calculated and compared to average wait times for new patient dermatology office appointments from 2016 to 2017. Recommendations for FTF dermatology visits were assessed, along with FTF visit attendance and potential cost savings.

Results

One hundred eighty pediatric patients with 188 unrelated skin conditions (“cases”) were referred to the program. Of 188 cases, FTF dermatology visits were recommended for 60 (31.9%). Actual FTF dermatology visit avoidance was 53.7% of total cases (n = 101 for whom FTF visit was not recommended and no dermatology visit occurred within 90 days after eConsult submission). The program generated potential savings of $24 059 ($9840 out‐of‐pocket) in 2016 dollars. Average turnaround for eConsult completion was 1.8 calendar days (median: 1 calendar day, target: 2 business days). Average wait time to initial FTF dermatology evaluation was 37.3 calendar days (versus 54.1 days for pediatric patients referred directly to dermatology clinic between 2016 and 2017).

Conclusion

Pediatric dermatology eConsults reduce wait times for specialist care, triage cases for in‐office evaluation, reduce need for FTF dermatology visits, and offer potential cost savings for payers and patients.
Stress tolerance in flax plants inoculated with Bacillus and Azotobacter species under deficit irrigation
Authors: Rajabi‐Khamseh Sanaz , Danesh‐Shahraki Abdolrazagh , Rafieiolhossaini Mohammad
Published: June 2020

Drought stress affects not only crop growth but also its morpho‐physiological and biochemical traits to reduce crop productivity. The study reported in this article was designed and implemented to determine the effects of deficit irrigation and bacterial inoculation on flax plants. For this purpose, seeds were inoculated with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (B1), Bacillus sp. Strain1 (B2), and Azotobacter chroococcum (A) as plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). The individual inoculated plants were then grown under field conditions in 2015, while individually and in combination in pots in 2016. The irrigation regimes in either experiments included 50, 75 and 100% crop water requirement. Bacterial cultures were observed to produce ammonia (except B2), indole acetic acid and siderophores. Results showed that the PGPRs significantly mitigated the effects of water deficit. Compared with the control plants, the bacterially‐inoculated plants had an enhanced relative water content, plant height, water‐soluble carbohydrate and proline contents and antioxidant enzyme activities, but a decreased malondialdehyde content. B1 exhibited greater effects on most of the traits investigated under the field conditions rather than those with moderate and severe drought stress, while application of the triple bacteria in pots had greater effects on relative water content, carbohydrate and proline contents as well as malondialdehyde. The significant differences in abiotic stress indicators in PGPR‐treated plants suggest that these bacteria could be used as biofertilizers to assist plant growth and to reduce the adverse effects of deficit irrigation.
Three challenges of partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage associated with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: MacKenzie Ross Robert V.
Published: June 2020

See related article
Pulmonary hypertension in Saudi Arabia: First data from the SAUDIPH registry with a focus on pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Aldalaan Abdullah M. , Saleemi Sarfraz A. , Weheba Ihab , Abdelsayed Abeer , Aleid Maha M. , Alzubi Fatima , Zaytoun Hamdeia , Alharbi Nadeen
Published: June 2020

Background and objective

This study presents the first results of ‘SAUDIPH’ registry, aiming to assess patient characteristics, treatment approach and clinical and survival outcomes in patients with PAH.

Methods

The registry enrolled patients with Group 1 and Group 4 PH under clinical management in a specialized tertiary care centre from 2004 to 2018. Changes from baseline to last follow‐up visit were assessed.

Results

A total of 222 patients were enrolled, and Group 1 PH was the most frequent aetiology (57.7%). Mean age at diagnosis was 32 years. mPAP was 55.0 mm Hg and was higher for Group 1 PH (59.0 mm Hg, P < 0.001). At the last visit, most patients were on specific therapy (83.7%) and 30% shifted from FC III/IV to FC I/II. NT‐proBNP improved by 29.2% in the overall population. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year cumulative probabilities of survival were 95.6% (95% CI: 91.5–99.9%), 89.2% (95% CI: 82.1–96.9%) and 74.6% (95% CI: 59.4–93.7%), respectively. CHD‐PAH demonstrated the best survival among Group 1 PAH with 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year cumulative probability of 100%, 100%, and 75.0% (95% CI: 42.6–100), respectively.

Conclusion

PAH was the most frequent aetiology and patients were younger at diagnosis compared to other cohorts. Most patients showed improvement in FC and NT‐proBNP. The estimated 1‐year survival was better than previous studies, possibly reflecting wider use of combination therapy and the high prevalence of CHD‐PAH.
Structural change and global trade flows: Does an emerging giant matter?
Authors: Dennis Benjamin N. , İşcan Talan B.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we develop a novel trade‐accounting framework that is based on a multi‐country, multi‐industry model of trade. The framework links observed changes in wages, sectoral employment shares, total labor force, and bilateral trade costs to changes in bilateral trade values at the sector level. In our application, we quantify the changes in trade patterns from 1995 to 2010 among 15 advanced and emerging market economies attributable to structural change in China, focusing on three manifestations of trade creation and destruction: China’s replacement of manufactured final goods exports to advanced economies at the expense of other economies; an expansion of China’s imports of manufactured final goods and commodities; and an expansion of China’s imports of parts and components that are then processed and exported as manufactured final goods to the advanced economies. Our main findings are: (a) scale effects have more than compensated for the loss of competitiveness due to higher wages in China; (b) China’s wage growth has been an economically more significant determinant of trade creation and destruction than its reallocation of labor across sectors, and (c) structural change in China has shifted other countries toward more commodity‐intensive production.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DQB1*03:01:46 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Elsermans Vincent , Visentin Jonathan , Top Isabelle , Varlet Pauline , Labalette Myriam
Published: June 2020

HLA‐DQB1*03:01:46 differs from HLA‐DQB1*03:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 142 in exon 3.
Andean style 1.50–1.35 Ga arc dynamics in the Southeastern Laurentian margin: The rifting and reassembly of Quebecia
Authors: Groulier Pierre‐Arthur , Indares Aphrodite , Dunning Gregory , Moukhsil Abdelali
Published: June 2020

Quebecia is a unique Geon 15 to 13 composite arc belt in the central Grenville Province that preserves record of rifting and subsequent re‐amalgamation of part of the Laurentian margin. Key lithological components include: (a) c. 1.5 Ga metasedimentary sequences indicative of earlier rifting of the Laurentian margin; (b) remnants of 1.50–1.45 Ga peri‐Laurentian island arcs to the south built on rifted crustal slivers; (c) 1.45–1.42 Ga mafic dyke swarms to the northwest, linked to an asthenospheric window or back‐arc opening; (d) a major 1.43–1.37 Ga felsic plutonic belt marking the time of accretion to Laurentia; and (e) 1.38–1.35 Ga AMCG complexes suggesting slab‐breakoff and mafic underplating of the lower crust during arc accretion. Differences between Quebecia and continental arcs of the same age on both sides attest to lateral variations in subduction dynamics under Laurentia comparable to the modern‐day Andean system.
Articulating artfulness: Exploring the ecological potential of creative conversation
Authors: Pigott Anna
Published: June 2020

Notions of “artfulness” are increasingly being used in the humanities and social sciences to nod towards ephemeral linkages between creativity and ecological sensitivity, but there has so far been little work to flesh out in detail what this term entails, both conceptually and in practice. This paper contributes to current understandings of “artfulness” through an in‐depth case study of conversations facilitated by an arts‐sustainability project in Wales known as Emergence. Through the author's experiences of conversations at Emergence gatherings, the paper develops a theory of artfulness as a manner of being that is attuned to a dispersed, emergent version of creativity. The radical ecological potential of the conversations is explored through three themes: vulnerability and receptivity; reconfiguring self–other subjectivities; and posthuman sensibilities. In doing so, the paper contends that artfulness further expands ideas about where and how creativity arises, presenting possibilities for non‐artists to creatively compose‐with the world in transformative ways. This is essential because the imaginative and creative leap required in response to ongoing ecological loss is so great that it should not be left to professional artists alone.
Evaluation of hematologic, biochemical, and blood gas variables in stored canine packed red blood cells, and the impact of storage time on blood recipients
Authors: Rodrigues Renata R. , Kayano Caroline Y. , dos Santos Vinícius P. , Moroz Ludmila R. , Fantoni Denise T. , Ambrósio Aline M.
Published: June 2020

Background

Canine packed red blood cells (pRBCs) can be stored under refrigeration for several days; however, cellular metabolism remains active inside the units, thus producing substances that affect their quality.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate hematologic, biochemical, and blood gas variable alterations that occur in canine pRBCs during storage, and their effects on recipient clinicopathologic parameters.

Methods

The study was conducted in two phases. In phase I, 15 pRBC units containing CPDA‐1 were stored for 28 days; samples were collected weekly from the units of days 0 to 28 to measure the packed cell volume (PCV), pH, partial pressure carbon dioxide (PCO2), partial pressure oxygen (PO2), concentrations of lactate and potassium, and the percent hemolysis. In phase II, another 22 canine pRBC units stored for different time periods (maximum of 21 days) were transfused, and the recipients were evaluated before and after transfusion for changes in clinical parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, systolic arterial pressure, and rectal temperature) and hematologic variables (PCV, lactate and potassium concentrations, pH, PCO2, the ratio of arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen [PO2/FiO2] ratio, oxygen saturation [SaO2], base excess, and bicarbonate [HCO3]).

Results

In the pRBC units, the PCV increased from 70% to 78.33%, the lactate concentration increased 627%, the potassium concentration increased 183%, the percent hemolysis reached 0.69%, and the pH decreased 9% after 28 days. However, the dogs who received transfusions were not negatively affected. There was a significant increase in PCVs, and a significant decrease in heart rates.

Conclusion

Canine pRBCs undergo hematologic, blood gas, and biochemical alterations during storage; however, the transfusion of pRBCs stored for up to 21 days increased PCVs without causing harm to the dogs.
Influence of Pump Rotation Speed on Hydrodynamic Performance and Stator Blade Surface Pressure Pulsation in Torque Converter
Authors: Liu Boshen , Tan Lu , Li Jin
Published: June 2020

An experimental investigation was performed to characterize the influence of pump rotation speed on the hydrodynamic performance and the associated unsteady pressure on the stator blade pressure-surface in a torque converter. High-resolution miniature transducers were used to obtain the signature of the pressure pulsation at specific surface locations. Results show that the increase of the pump rotation speed can enhance the torque capacity of the stator, leading to a higher torque ratio in the low speed ratio range and an improvement of the highest transmission efficiency. The efficiency increase rate starts to reduce at approximately SR = 0.4, corresponding to where the stator capacity reaches the maximum and exhibits a uniform distribution of the pressure pulsation intensity. The spectral decomposition of the pulsating pressure reveals the existence of two dominating frequencies, which corresponds to the upstream pump turbine interaction and the downstream pump blade passing. Higher pump speeds enhance the pump turbine interaction and results in a more regular pressure pulsation, improving the hydrodynamic performance of the torque converter.
Mechanobiology of Cartilage Impact Via Real-Time Metabolic Imaging
Authors: Walsh Shannon K. , Shelley Joshua C. , Henak Corinne R.
Published: June 2020

Cartilage loading is important in both structural and biological contexts, with overloading known to cause osteoarthritis (OA). Cellular metabolism, which can be evaluated through the relative measures of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, is important in disease processes across tissues. Details of structural damage coupled with cellular metabolism in cartilage have not been evaluated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the time- and location-dependent metabolic response to traumatic impact loading in articular cartilage. Cartilage samples from porcine femoral condyles underwent a single traumatic injury that created cracks in most samples. Before and up to 30 min after loading, samples underwent optical metabolic imaging. Optical metabolic imaging measures the fluorescent intensity of byproducts of the two metabolic pathways, flavin adenine dinucleotide for oxidative phosphorylation and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide ± phosphate for glycolysis, as well as the redox ratio between them. Images were taken at varied distances from the center of the impact. Shortly after impact, fluorescence intensity in both channels decreased, while redox ratio was unchanged. The most dramatic metabolic response was measured closest to the impact center, with suppressed fluorescence in both channels relative to baseline. Redox ratio varied nonlinearly as a function of distance from the impact. Finally, both lower and higher magnitude loading reduced flavin adenine dinucleotide fluorescence, whereas reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide ± phosphate fluorescence was associated only with low strain loads and high contact pressure loads, respectively. In conclusion, this study performed novel analysis of metabolic activity following induction of cartilage damage and demonstrated time-, distance-, and load-dependent response to traumatic impact loading.