bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Among‐family variation in survival and gene expression uncovers adaptive genetic variation in a threatened fish
Authors: Harder Avril M. , Willoughby Janna R. , Ardren William R. , Christie Mark R.
Published: December 2019

Variation in among‐family transcriptional responses to different environmental conditions can help to identify adaptive genetic variation, even prior to a selective event. Coupling differential gene expression with formal survival analyses allows for the disentanglement of treatment effects, required for understanding how individuals plastically respond to environmental stressors, from the adaptive genetic variation responsible for differential survival. We combined these two approaches to investigate responses to an emerging conservation issue, thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, in a threatened population of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Thiamine is an essential vitamin that is increasingly limited in many ecosystems. In Lake Champlain, Atlantic salmon cannot acquire thiamine in sufficient quantities to support natural reproduction; fertilized eggs must be reared in hatcheries and treated with supplemental thiamine. We evaluated transcriptional responses (via RNA sequencing) to thiamine treatment across families and found 3,616 genes differentially expressed between control (no supplemental thiamine) and treatment individuals. Fewer genes changed expression equally across families (i.e., additively) than exhibited genotype × environment interactions in response to thiamine. Differentially expressed genes were related to known physiological effects of thiamine deficiency, including oxidative stress, cardiovascular irregularities and neurological abnormalities. We also identified 1,446 putatively adaptive genes that were strongly associated with among‐family survival in the absence of thiamine treatment, many of which related to neurogenesis and visual perception. Our results highlight the utility of coupling RNA sequencing with formal survival analyses to identify candidate genes that underlie the among‐family variation in survival required for an adaptive response to natural selection.
Research advances in the Pyrenophora teres–barley interaction
Authors: Clare Shaun J. , Wyatt Nathan A. , Brueggeman Robert S. , Friesen Timothy L.
Published: December 2019

Pyrenophora teres f. teres and P. teres f. maculata are significant pathogens that cause net blotch of barley. An increased number of loci involved in P. teres resistance or susceptibility responses of barley as well as interacting P. teres virulence effector loci have recently been identified through biparental and association mapping studies of both the pathogen and host. Characterization of the resistance/susceptibility loci in the host and the interacting effector loci in the pathogen will provide a path for targeted gene validation for better‐informed release of resistant barley cultivars. This review assembles concise consensus maps for all loci published for both the host and pathogen, providing a useful resource for the community to be used in pathogen characterization and barley breeding for resistance to both forms of P. teres.
Nurses' perspectives of self‐awareness in nursing practice: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Younas Ahtisham , Rasheed Subia P. , Sundus Amara , Inayat Shahzad
Published: December 2019

Self‐awareness is essential for nurses for improving nurse–patient relationship and patient care. There are many theories about self‐awareness, but scant research explores nurses' perspectives regarding self‐awareness and its significance for themselves and patient care. This study explores nurses' perspectives regarding self‐awareness in nursing, the importance of self‐awareness for nurses, and its influence on patient care. We used a descriptive qualitative design. Face‐to‐face semistructured interviews were conducted, from October to December 2018, with a purposive sample of 13 nurses at two hospitals in Pakistan. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Five themes and 13 subthemes were generated. The themes included the meaning of self‐awareness: a personal, professional, and conscientious attribute, significance of self‐awareness for nurses, self‐aware nurses and its impact on patient care, behaviors, and actions signifying self‐awareness, and what is needed to enhance self‐awareness. Self‐awareness can increase nurses' confidence in managing challenging situations and providing culturally competent care to patients from various cultural and religious orientations.
Effectiveness of a self‐management retraining program improving the quality of life of people receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Pungchompoo Wanicha , Parinyajittha Saowaros , Pungchompoo Sirirat , Kumtan Paweena
Published: December 2019

People receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) are often faced with technical difficulties while performing self‐dialysis, which can compromise outcomes and health‐related quality of life. This mixed‐methods exploratory sequential study aims to implement a repeated‐measures experimental design to assess the effectiveness of a self‐management retraining program. The sample consisted of 41 participants living with chronic kidney disease aged 20 to 80 years who were receiving CAPD. Participants were purposively selected and randomized into experimental and control groups. The experimental group received the self‐management retraining program. The control group received standard care. We compared health‐related quality of life, self‐management behavior, and perceived self‐management self‐efficacy levels at baseline and 3 and 6 months after enrollment. Participants demonstrated statistically significant increases in self‐management behavior (medical adherence) and mental health status. Perceived self‐efficacy in self‐management was improved; however, this change did not reach statistical significance. We conclude that an self‐management retraining program can improve self‐management, self‐efficacy behaviors, and health‐related quality of life in persons receiving CAPD.
RANK/RANKL/OPG gene polymorphisms and loss of orthodontic mini‐implants
Authors: Giacobbo Laís Cristina , Perin Maria Augusta Andrigo , Pereira Thaís Munhoz , Garmendia Mariana Oliveira , Reichow Alexandre , Melo Ana Cláudia , de Castilhos Bruno Borges , Trevilatto Paula Cristina
Published: December 2019

Objective

To investigate the association of genetic polymorphisms (tagSNPs type) of RANK/RANKL/OPG genes with the loss of orthodontic mini‐implants (MIs).

Setting and sample population

One hundred and thirty‐five patients of both sexes, with mean age of 48.7 ± 10 (20‐76 years), were studied. The control group was composed of 104 patients, with no MI lost and functioning for at least 6 months and the case group, of 31 patients with at least one MI lost.

Materials and methods

Cells were obtained by mouthwash with 3% glucose solution for 1 minute and scraping the buccal mucosa with sterilized spatula. DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells with 10 M ammonium acetate and 1 mM EDTA. Genotyping was performed by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed (P < .05).

Results

No markers were associated with MI loss after Benjamini and Hochberg false discovery rate correction of Univariate tests. In the multivariate analysis, the variables that associated with MI loss were the number of MIs installed (P < .000) and the polymorphism rs8086340 in the RANK gene (P = .018).

Conclusion

A higher number of MIs installed (P < .000) and polymorphism rs8086340 in the RANK gene (P = .018) were associated with loss of orthodontic MIs after multivariate analysis.
The design of the perfect pediatric supraglottic airway device
Authors: Huang Andrea S. , Sarver Ashley , Widing Amanda , Hajduk John , Jagannathan Narasimhan
Published: December 2019

The design evolution of the pediatric supraglottic airway device has experienced a long and productive journey. We have a wealth of clinical studies to support progress and advancements in pediatric clinical practice. While all of the  supraglottic airway devices have been used successfully in millions of children, it is important to be aware of design advantages and disadvantages of the different models of  supraglottic airway devices. Current pediatric supraglottic airway devices may be improved in design to be more ideal. Industry‐changing technological advancements are likely to occur in the near future, which may further improve clinical performance of these devices.
The effectiveness of epidural blood patch in patients with cerebral palsy treated with intrathecal baclofen implantation
Authors: Imerci Ahmet , Rogers Kenneth , Dixit Divya , McManus Maura , Miller Freeman , Sees Julieanne P.
Published: December 2019

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid leak and postdural puncture spinal headache following intrathecal baclofen therapy are known complications. Although primary treatments are conservative, epidural blood patch is an alternative in patients with persistent and severe symptoms.

Aim

The purpose of this article is to review the effectiveness of epidural blood patch for the treatment of spinal headache and cerebrospinal fluid leak associated with intrathecal baclofen treatment in children with cerebral palsy.

Methods

Our database was reviewed for epidural blood patch in 341 pediatric patients with cerebral palsy who underwent primary intrathecal baclofen treatment from 2004 to 2018 at one institution. The number of patches, time frame of treatment, and effectiveness of the epidural blood patch were collected. All patients treated with epidural blood patch were evaluated for primary and secondary intrathecal baclofen‐related procedures, and subsequent treatment of intrathecal baclofen associated with cerebrospinal fluid leak and spinal headache.

Results

Twenty‐nine epidural blood patch procedures were performed on 26 patients who had received intrathecal baclofen procedures. Of these 26 patients, four had a secondary epidural blood patch. The incidence of spinal headache/cerebrospinal fluid leak was 31% (107/341), and 81/107 (76%) patients with spinal headache/cerebrospinal fluid leak responded to conservative treatments. Success rate for initial epidural blood patch was 79.3% (23/29). The second epidural blood patch was performed in four patients after failure of initial epidural blood patch. Second epidural blood patch success rate was 75% (3/4).

Conclusion

Spinal headache and cerebrospinal fluid leak are known complications after intrathecal baclofen treatment in children with cerebral palsy. When conservative treatments are unsuccessful, epidural blood patch can be used with confidence for these patients. In patients with ongoing symptoms, it is possible to obtain success by repeating the epidural blood patch to continue intrathecal baclofen treatment and avoid aggressive surgery.
Clinical and Workplace Outcomes From a Virtually Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program for Pain
Authors: Mochari‐Greenberger Heidi , Andreopoulos Evie , Peters Aimee , Pande Reena L.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To evaluate clinical and workplace outcomes from an evidence‐based virtual behavioral therapy program for individuals with pain and behavioral health issues.

Methods

This was a retrospective de‐identified data analysis among a cohort of 1,086 participants enrolled in a standardized, evidence‐based telebehavioral therapy program between September 1, 2016, and August 31, 2017 (mean age 53 ± 11.5 years; 29% male). The program was delivered over approximately 8 weeks by licensed therapists and behavior coaches by telephone or video, and tailored to the pain management and behavioral health goals of each participant. Structured measurements were documented in the electronic clinical record, including demographics, comorbidities, pain severity (Pain Intensity, Enjoyment of Life, General Activity tool), behavioral health symptoms (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale short form), and productivity (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment survey).

Results

At baseline, participants had high average pain severity (5.8/10 points), high frequencies of behavioral health symptoms (68%), and activity impairment (90%); absenteeism (34%) and presenteeism (75%) were observed among employed individuals. Pain severity and pain interference improved by 17% and 27%, respectively, over 8 weeks (P < 0.0001). Reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were significant and associated with reductions in pain interference (P < 0.0001). Absenteeism, presenteeism, and activity impairment ratings each improved by more than 25% (P < 0.0001).

Discussion

Participants in a virtually delivered behavioral therapy program for pain experienced significant improvements in pain intensity, pain interference, behavioral health symptoms, and work productivity.
BGAL1 depletion boosts the level of β‐galactosylation of N‐ and O‐glycans in N. benthamiana
Authors: Kriechbaum Ricarda , Ziaee Esmaiel , Grünwald‐Gruber Clemens , Buscaill Pierre , van der Hoorn Renier A. L. , Castilho Alexandra
Published: December 2019

Glyco‐design of proteins is a powerful tool in fundamental studies of structure–function relationship and in obtaining profiles optimized for efficacy of therapeutic glycoproteins. Plants, particularly Nicotiana benthamiana, are attractive hosts to produce recombinant glycoproteins, and recent advances in glyco‐engineering facilitate customized N‐glycosylation of plant‐derived glycoproteins. However, with exception of monoclonal antibodies, homogenous human‐like β1,4‐galactosylation is very hard to achieve in recombinant glycoproteins. Despite significant efforts to optimize the expression of β1,4‐galactosyltransferase, many plant‐derived glycoproteins still exhibit incomplete processed N‐glycans with heterogeneous terminal galactosylation. The most obvious suspects to be involved in trimming terminal galactose residues are β‐galactosidases (BGALs) from the glycosyl hydrolase family GH35. To elucidate the so far uncharacterized mechanisms leading to the trimming of terminal galactose residues from glycans of secreted proteins, we studied a N. benthamiana BGAL known to be active in the apoplast (NbBGAL1). Here, we determined the NbBGAL1 subcellular localization, substrate specificity and in planta biological activity. We show that NbBGAL1 can remove β1,4‐ and β1,3‐galactose residues on both N‐ and O‐glycans. Transient BGAL1 down‐regulation by RNA interference (RNAi) and BGAL1 depletion by genome editing drastically reduce β‐galactosidase activity in N. benthamiana and increase the amounts of fully galactosylated complex N‐glycans on several plant‐produced glycoproteins. Altogether, our data demonstrate that NbBGAL1 acts on galactosylated complex N‐glycans of plant‐produced glycoproteins.
Bring the Sunshine Indoors: Easy Dosimetry for Indoor Daylight Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: O'Mahoney Paul , Eadie Ewan
Published: December 2019

Daylight photodynamic therapy (DPDT) is an effective and patient preferred treatment for the management of field change actinic keratosis. An important factor in DPDT is light dosimetry, to ensure that patients receive sufficient daylight for effective treatment, and this is the focus of the contribution to this issue by (La Rochelle et al. [2019] Photochem. Photobiol., https://doi.org/10.1111/php.13170). In this work, the authors present an easy‐to‐use method for obtaining real‐time information about patient received light dose during treatment and for determining indoor locations best suited to DPDT.
Effects of prenatal bacterial infection on cognitive performance in early childhood
Authors: Lee Younga H. , Papandonatos George D. , Savitz David A. , Heindel William C. , Buka Stephen L.
Published: December 2019

Background

Previous epidemiologic studies have reported adverse neurodevelopmental sequelae following prenatal infectious exposure, yet long‐term effects estimated from these observational studies are often subject to biases due to confounding and loss to follow‐up.

Objectives

We demonstrate the joint use of inverse probability (IP) treatment and censoring weights when evaluating neurotoxic effects of prenatal bacterial infection.

Methods

We applied IP weighting for both treatment and censoring to estimate the effects of maternal bacterial infection during pregnancy on mean intelligence quotient (IQ) scores measured at age 7 using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Participants were members of a population‐based pregnancy cohort recruited in the Boston and Providence sites of the Collaborative Perinatal Project between 1959 and 1966 (n = 11 984). We calculated average treatment effects (ATE) and average treatment effects on the treated (ATT) using IP weights estimated via generalized boosted models.

Results

ATE‐ and ATT‐weighted mean IQ scores were lowest among offspring exposed to multi‐systemic bacterial infection during pregnancy and highest for those unexposed. The effects of prenatal bacterial infection were greater among male offspring, particularly on performance IQ scores. Offspring who were exposed to multi‐systemic bacterial infection in the third trimester displayed the largest reduction in mean full‐scale, verbal, and performance IQ scores at age 7 compared to those unexposed or exposed in earlier trimesters.

Conclusions

We find that prenatal bacterial infection is associated with cognitive impairments at age 7. Associations are strongest for more severe infections, that occur in the third trimester, and among males. Public health intervention targeting bacterial infection in pregnant women may help enhance the cognitive development of offspring.
Vitamin C treatment of embryos, but not donor cells, improves the cloned embryonic development in sheep
Authors: Zhang Yumei , Gao Enen , Guan Hong , Wang Qianqian , Zhang Shuo , Liu Kexiong , Yan Fengxiang , Tian Hao , Shan Dehai , Xu Huijuan , Hou Jian
Published: December 2019

Vitamin C is not only an antioxidant but also a regulator of epigenetic modifications that can enhance the activity of the ten‐eleven translocation (TET) family dioxygenases and promote the oxidation of 5‐methylcytosine (5mC) to 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). Here, we investigated the effects of vitamin C in regulating DNA methylation in sheep somatic cells or embryos in an effort to improve the cloned embryo development. Vitamin C treatment of sheep foetal fibroblast cells significantly increased the 5hmC levels but did not affect the 5mC levels in cells. After nuclear transfer, vitamin C‐treated donor cells could not support a higher blastocyst development rate than non‐treated cells. Although combination of serum starvation and vitamin C treatment could induce significant 5mC decrease in donor cells, it failed to promote the development of resultant cloned embryos. When cloned embryos were directly treated with vitamin C, the pre‐implantation development of embryos and the 5hmC levels in blastocysts were significantly improved. This beneficial role of vitamin C on embryo development was also observed in fertilized embryos. Our results suggest that vitamin C treatment of the embryos, but not the donor cells, can improve the development of cloned sheep embryos.
Techniques for seedling production of two native grasses: new perspectives for Brazilian Cerrado restoration
Authors: de Oliveira Ana C. C. , Forti Victor A. , de Paula Loiola Priscilla , Viani Ricardo A. G.
Published: December 2019

There is a major need for restoration of nonforest ecosystems in the Brazilian Cerrado, and planting seedlings is promising. However, there is no currently available information on nontree species production in nurseries. Grasses are dominant in the Cerrado herbaceous layer; therefore, we tested whether tree seedling production techniques can be used for two native grasses widely spread across the Cerrado ecoregion (Schizachyrium sanguineum and Loudetiopsis chrysothrix). We performed a factorial experiment with three levels: (1) seedbed substrate, (2) container volume, and (3) final substrate. Seeds were germinated in seedbeds with native soil or sand and, after emergence, transferred to 30, 55, or 290 cm3 containers filled with native soil, commercial substrate, or a mixture thereof. We evaluated seedling survival, height relative growth rate (RGR), tillering, and dry biomass. Survival rates after transfer from seedbeds to containers were greater than 80% for both species. Generally, species had greater height RGR, tillering, and biomass in the 290 cm3 containers than in the other containers, and the presence of native soil in the seedbeds, as well as in the containers, fostered seedling growth. However, the use of native soil is not recommended for large‐scale production, because its acquisition could degrade Cerrado areas. The commercial substrate improvement could be an alternative to increase seedling growth, since grasses survived well and presented greater growth in the largest container. Our study demonstrated that the techniques currently used in commercial nurseries for growing trees are suitable for both grasses, and substrates and container size drive seedling growth.
The impact of a fox‐ and cat‐free safe haven on the bird fauna of remnant vegetation in southwestern Australia
Authors: Smith Michael J. , Ruykys Laura , Palmer Bryony , Palmer Nicola , Volck Georgia , Thomasz Adele , Riessen Noel
Published: December 2019

Introduced predators are a serious threat to Australian vertebrates. However, the consequences of predation for an area's avifauna have rarely been quantified. We took advantage of the establishment of a 7,832 ha fox‐ and cat‐free safe haven at Mt Gibson, in Western Australia, to assess the consequences of excluding introduced mammal predators on the bird fauna. Bird surveys were conducted over 6 years, before and after the establishment of the introduced predator‐free safe haven. After 3 years, half the sites were enclosed by the fence that excluded introduced predators, while the remainder of sites remained outside the fence and were exposed to fox and cat activity. The sites were stratified by four major vegetation types. A total of 91 bird species were variously detectable with the survey approach, but were typically more detectable during morning surveys. Site occupancy varied considerably among species, but overall, occupancy by all species was most likely to be either not impacted or positively impacted by the safe haven. The most notable change was that avifaunal richness appeared to increase in woodland and shrubland habitats within, as compared to outside, the safe haven. We conclude that: (1) the safe haven had an overall positive impact on bird occupancy; and (2) there were no consistent trends with respect to the kinds of species whose occupancy was positively impacted, beyond them all being small‐ to medium‐sized birds and mostly insectivorous. However, these conclusions must be tempered by the poor detection probability of many species.
International investment positions revisited: Investor heterogeneity and individual security characteristics
Authors: Boermans Martijn A. , Vermeulen Robert
Published: December 2019

This paper contributes to the literature by empirically documenting the importance of investor heterogeneity and security level characteristics for international investment positions. We estimate a standard gravity model to explain holdings in individual bonds and stocks for euro area investors covering 2013Q4–2018Q4. First, our results confirm the importance of market size and distance, but there are significant differences between banks, insurance companies and pension funds, investment funds, households and other investors. Second, we show the statistical significance and economic relevance of security characteristics such as currency, bond maturity and dividend yield. Third, the results are robust to including domestic holdings.
The representation of women and girls of color in United States crime news
Authors: Slakoff Danielle C.
Published: December 2019

There is a large body of literature examining the media portrayals of white females as both victims and offenders in crime news, but very little is known about how minority females—including Black, Latina, Middle Eastern, Native American, and Asian women and girls—are portrayed in these roles. In this literature review, I discuss general stereotypes surrounding women of color and their depictions within crime news stories as both victims and offenders. An examination of crime news media portrayals of minority females reveals that outdated and harmful stereotypes provide media personnel frames with which to write their stories. The negative portrayals of minority women and girls—as both victims and offenders—serve to reinforce racist beliefs and affect how consumers view political issues.
The Nordic Paradox and intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) in Sweden: A background overview
Authors: Wemrell Maria , Lila Marisol , Gracia Enrique , Ivert Anna‐Karin
Published: December 2019

The global public health problem of intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) is typically tied to gender inequality. Contrary to what would be expected, however, a 2012 survey conducted by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) showed lifetime prevalence rates of IPVAW in the Nordic countries which were among the highest of the 28 EU member states, despite these countries being rated as some of the most gender‐equal in the world. The aim of this article is to enable a furthered understanding of this Nordic Paradox through providing an overview of knowledge about IPVAW in Sweden in relation to the apparent paradox. It assembles information on IPVAW prevalence, on Sweden's legal and policy framework, on perceived remaining challenges and limitations in responses to IPVAW, and on potential explanations for the Nordic Paradox as expressed in previous research. We conclude that a clear resolution to the Nordic Paradox has not yet been established. Further research is therefore needed.
Characterization of two novel HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01 variants, identified in Brazilian individuals
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle , Santos Angela , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: December 2019

Characterization of two novel HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01 variants, HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01:06 and DQB1*05:01:01:07.
Noncompliance with blood donor selection criteria ‐ Complidon 2017, France
Authors: Sauvage Claire , Spinardi Roxane , Pelat Camille , Pouget Thomas , Danic Bruno , Woimant Geneviève , Lot Florence , Gross Sylvie , Laperche Syria , Pillonel Josiane ,   for the Steering Committee
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Blood donor selection, consisting of a pre‐donation questionnaire and interview, excludes potential donors who may be at risk of transfusion‐transmissible infections. Assessing the reasons for noncompliance with blood donor selection criteria is important to maintain a high level of viral safety of blood products.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

An anonymous French online survey of a sample of blood donors (Complidon) was conducted from September to December 2017. Data were poststratified to be representative of all donors who donated blood between July 2016 and December 2017.

RESULTS

Of 420,190 solicited donors, 108,386 completed the survey (26%). Overall, noncompliance was estimated at 5.6%. The least respected criteria regarded sex with more than one partner during the previous 4 months for donors (1.9%) and for donors' partners (1%), travel‐related criteria (1.2%) and sex between men during the previous 12 months (0.73% of men). Reasons for noncompliance differed according to criteria. Donors who were non‐compliant to sexuality‐based criteria mainly said they did not want to be excluded or that the questions were too personal. Conversely, donors who were exclusively non‐compliant to criteria other than sexuality‐based criteria more often mentioned their non‐compliance during the pre‐donation interview but were nevertheless authorized to donate blood.

CONCLUSION

Despite noncompliance to blood donor criteria being relatively low in France, it still represents a threat to blood safety. Accordingly, improved communication is important to ensure that donors fully understand each selection criterion and to emphasize to health professionals the importance of listening carefully without judging during pre‐donation interviews.
CT findings in five dogs with surgically confirmed colonic torsion
Authors: Barge Pablo , Fina Caroline J. , Mortier Jeremy R. , Jones Ian D.
Published: December 2019

Colonic torsion is a life‐threatening condition that results in colonic ischemia, necrosis, perforation, sepsis, and eventual death. The aim of this multicenter, retrospective case series study was to describe the CT findings in dogs with surgically confirmed colonic torsion. Medical records were searched for dogs with surgically confirmed colonic torsion following abdominal CT. Five dogs met the inclusion criteria. Three had a history of chronic intermittent diarrhea prior to presentation. Two dogs presented with acute vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain and one dog presented with acute vomiting and lethargy. Computed tomographic findings in all dogs with surgically confirmed colonic torsion include: “whirl sign,” displacement and distension of the cecum and colon, focal narrowing of the colon, and distension of the mesenteric vasculature in all dogs (5/5); streaky peritoneal fat and peritoneal effusion (4/5), pneumatosis coli (2/5), small intestinal distension (2/5), portal vein thrombosis (1/5), and reduced colonic wall contrast enhancement (1/5). In all dogs (5/5), the torsion site was the descending colon and demonstrated an anticlockwise rotation. At surgery, three of the five dogs had a partial colonic torsion with hyperemia at the site of obstruction and two of the five dogs had a complete torsion with marked necrosis of the colonic wall. Displacement of the colon and cecum, segmental distension and focal narrowing of the colon, the presence of a “whirl sign” and distension of the mesenteric vasculature are CT findings highly suggestive of colonic torsion.
Influence of use of a bipolar vessel sealing device on short‐term postoperative mortality after splenectomy: 203 dogs (2005‐2018)
Authors: Sirochman Anna L. , Milovancev Milan , Townsend Katy , Grimes Janet A.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To compare short‐term postoperative mortality in dogs after splenectomy performed with or without a bipolar vessel sealing device (BVSD) and to identify variables associated with mortality.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Sample population

Client‐owned dogs (n = 203).

Methods

Medical records of dogs that underwent splenectomy from 2005‐2018 were reviewed. Mortality rates were compared between dogs that underwent splenectomy with or without BVSD. Causes of death and variables associated with short‐term mortality were assessed.

Results

Fifteen of 203 (7.4%) dogs died prior to discharge, and seven (3.4%) dogs died prior to suture removal for a total short‐term mortality rate of 22 of 203 (10.8%). The estimated difference in proportion of deaths prior to discharge between the BVSD and non‐BVSD groups was −0.01 (95% confidence interval = −0.08 to 0.06). Duration of anesthesia was longer when splenectomy was performed without BVSD (median 168 vs 152 minutes; P = .03). Multivariate analysis identified intraoperative (odds ratio [OR] 5.7) or postoperative (OR 13.6) administration of blood products, increasing duration of anesthesia (OR 1.15 per additional 16 minutes), and intraoperative ventricular arrhythmias (OR 6.8) as significantly associated with death prior to discharge. Intraoperative (OR 3.2) or postoperative (OR 7.7) administration of blood products was associated with death prior to suture removal.

Conclusion

Use of a BVSD did not appear to increase short‐term mortality after splenectomy.

Clinical significance

Dogs undergoing splenectomy that require intraoperative or postoperative transfusions, experience intraoperative ventricular arrhythmias, or have prolonged anesthesia may be at risk for death in the short‐term postoperative period.
Oculomotor Control in Amputee Soccer Players
Authors: Jedziniak Wojciech , Lesiakowski Piotr , Zwierko Teresa
Published: December 2019

The authors investigated the dynamics of saccadic parameters during a stationary oculomotor target task in amputee soccer players (n = 16), able-bodied soccer players (n = 16), and nonathletic control subjects (n = 16). Eye movements during the visual-search tasks were recorded binocularly using a mobile eye-tracking system, and the gaze parameters were analyzed (fixation duration, saccade duration, saccade amplitude, saccade average acceleration, saccade peak deceleration, saccade average velocity, and ocular mobility index). The average saccade acceleration in the amputee soccer players was significantly lower than in the able-bodied players (p = .021). Other saccade characteristics in disabled athletes were comparable to those of the able-bodied groups. Moreover, the able-bodied soccer players presented faster saccadic parameters than nonathletes in terms of saccade acceleration (p = .002), deceleration (p = .015), and velocity (p = .009). The modification of oculomotor functions may result from extensive practice and participation in ball games. The authors’ hypothesis that oculomotor functions in amputee soccer players may be impaired was not fully confirmed.
Exploring the Influence of Wheelchair-User Interface and Personal Characteristics on Ischial Tuberosity Peak Pressure Index and Gradient in Elite Wheelchair Basketball Players
Authors: Peters Joseph , Rice Ian , Bull Tyson
Published: December 2019

This pilot study investigated the relationship between personal and wheelchair factors on skin pressures at the ischial tuberosity in wheelchair basketball players. Seventeen wheelchair basketball players (7 male and 10 female) were evaluated during static and dynamic propulsive conditions while peak pressure index and peak pressure gradient were recorded with an interface pressure mat. The results showed that greater seat dump angles and backrest heights were negatively associated with the peak pressure index. Therapeutic cushion use was moderately associated with a reduced peak pressure gradient. Higher-class players used chair configurations associated with augmented pressure; however, classification status alone was not associated with pressure magnitude. Body mass index was negatively correlated with the static peak pressure gradient at levels approaching significance (p < .10). In conclusion, greater seat dump angles and backrest heights may provide pressure relief, whereas greater body mass index and therapeutic cushion use may reduce pressure gradients.
Athletes as “Cultural Architects”: A Qualitative Analysis of Elite Coaches’ Perceptions of Highly Influential Soccer Players
Authors: Danielsen Line D. , Giske Rune , Peters Derek M. , Høigaard Rune
Published: December 2019

The main purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of highly influential players in elite soccer. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 elite coaches to determine their perceptions of the characteristics, emergence, and impact of highly influential players. The interview guide was anchored in coaching literature and leadership theory, and after the interview data in this frame were explored, these athletes were labeled cultural architects. The results of the analysis revealed 3 general dimensions of cultural architects in elite teams: (a) personal characteristics, which include elements related to their achievements on the soccer pitch, mind-set, and collective orientation; (b) relationship to the coach, which includes integrity and trust; and (c) intrateam facilitator, which includes their impact as a task-team and social-team influencer. The results represent original findings identifying the characteristics of cultural architects in soccer that are most likely transferable to many other team sports.
Growth kinetics of single-walled carbon nanotubes with a (2
n
,
n
) chirality selection
Authors: He Maoshuai , Wang Xiao , Zhang Shuchen , Jiang Hua , Cavalca Filippo , Cui Hongzhi , Wagner Jakob B. , Hansen Thomas W. , Kauppinen Esko , Zhang Jin , Ding Feng
Published: December 2019

A new understanding on the kinetics of carbon nanotube growth leads to a method for selective growth of carbon nanotubes.
Spin-charge conversion in NiMnSb Heusler alloy films
Authors: Wen Zhenchao , Qiu Zhiyong , Tölle Sebastian , Gorini Cosimo , Seki Takeshi , Hou Dazhi , Kubota Takahide , Eckern Ulrich , Saitoh Eiji , Takanashi Koki
Published: December 2019

Spin-charge conversion in NiMnSb films was clarified via the interplay between interface and bulk (magnon) contributions.
Direct imaging of short-range order and its impact on deformation in Ti-6Al
Authors: Zhang Ruopeng , Zhao Shiteng , Ophus Colin , Deng Yu , Vachhani Shraddha J. , Ozdol Burak , Traylor Rachel , Bustillo Karen C. , Morris J. W. , Chrzan Daryl C. , Asta Mark , Minor Andrew M.
Published: December 2019

The domain structure of short-range order is directly observed in an aged Ti-6Al alloy.
Ordered colloidal clusters constructed by nanocrystals with valence for efficient CO
2
photoreduction
Authors: Nai Jianwei , Wang Sibo , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: December 2019

Anisotropic nanocrystals express “valence” when assembling into functional colloidal clusters, which demonstrate high catalytic activity.
Ultrahigh sensitive Raman spectroscopy for subnanoscience: Direct observation of tin oxide clusters
Authors: Kuzume Akiyoshi , Ozawa Miyu , Tang Yuansen , Yamada Yuki , Haruta Naoki , Yamamoto Kimihisa
Published: December 2019

Subnanoclusters were characterized by elaborated spectroscopic methods revealing distinctive natures of subnanomaterials.
Miniaturized, light-adaptive, wireless dosimeters autonomously monitor exposure to electromagnetic radiation
Authors: Kwon Kyeongha , Heo Seung Yun , Yoo Injae , Banks Anthony , Chan Michelle , Lee Jong Yoon , Park Jun Bin , Kim Jeonghyun , Rogers John A.
Published: December 2019

Small, wireless dosimeters with light-adaptive, ultralow power consumption continuously monitor personalized light exposure.
Flexible submental sensor patch with remote monitoring controls for management of oropharyngeal swallowing disorders
Authors: Kim Min Ku , Kantarcigil Cagla , Kim Bongjoong , Baruah Ratul Kumar , Maity Shovan , Park Yeonsoo , Kim Kyunghun , Lee Seungjun , Malandraki Jaime Bauer , Avlani Shitij , Smith Anne , Sen Shreyas , Alam Muhammad A. , Malandraki Georgia , Lee Chi Hwan
Published: December 2019

Stretchable skin sensor patch tailored for submental areas is developed for remote management of swallowing disorders.
Full voltage manipulation of the resistance of a magnetic tunnel junction
Authors: Chen Aitian , Zhao Yuelei , Wen Yan , Pan Long , Li Peisen , Zhang Xi-Xiang
Published: December 2019

We report reversible and nonvolatile fully electrical control of magnetic tunnel junctions deposited on a ferroelectric substrate.
Topology-dependent anomalous dynamics of ring and linear DNA are sensitive to cytoskeleton crosslinking
Authors: Wulstein Devynn M. , Regan Kathryn E. , Garamella Jonathan , McGorty Ryan J. , Robertson-Anderson Rae M.
Published: December 2019

Crowded ring and linear DNA exhibit distinct transport properties that are influenced differently by cytoskeleton crosslinking.
Severe type I interferonopathy and unrestrained interferon signaling due to a homozygous germline mutation in
STAT2
Authors: Duncan Christopher J. A. , Thompson Benjamin J. , Chen Rui , Rice Gillian I. , Gothe Florian , Young Dan F. , Lovell Simon C. , Shuttleworth Victoria G. , Brocklebank Vicky , Corner Bronte , Skelton Andrew J. , Bondet Vincent , Coxhead Jonathan , Duffy Darragh , Fourrage Cecile , Livingston John H. , Pavaine Julija , Cheesman Edmund , Bitetti Stephania , Grainger Angela , Acres Meghan , Innes Barbara A. , Mikulasova Aneta , Sun Ruyue , Hussain Rafiqul , Wright Ronnie , Wynn Robert , Zarhrate Mohammed , Zeef Leo A. H. , Wood Katrina , Hughes Stephen M. , Harris Claire L. , Engelhardt Karin R. , Crow Yanick J. , Randall Richard E. , Kavanagh David , Hambleton Sophie , Briggs Tracy A.
Published: December 2019

STAT2
R148W
impairs an essential regulatory function of STAT2, revealing the damage wreaked by excessive IFNα/β activity.
GCN2 drives macrophage and MDSC function and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Halaby Marie Jo , Hezaveh Kebria , Lamorte Sara , Ciudad M. Teresa , Kloetgen Andreas , MacLeod Bethany L. , Guo Mengdi , Chakravarthy Ankur , Medina Tiago Da Silva , Ugel Stefano , Tsirigos Aristotelis , Bronte Vincenzo , Munn David H. , Pugh Trevor J. , De Carvalho Daniel D. , Butler Marcus O. , Ohashi Pamela S. , Brooks David G. , McGaha Tracy L.
Published: December 2019

GCN2 is a key driver of Mϕ and MDSC polarization in the tumor microenvironment causing T cell exhaustion.
Susceptibility to Urinary Tract Infection: Benefits and Hazards of the Antibacterial Host Response
Authors: Ambite Ines , Nagy Karoly , Godaly Gabriela , Puthia Manoj , Wullt Björn , Svanborg Catharina
Published: December 2019

A paradigm shift is needed to improve and personalize the diagnosis of infectious disease and to select appropriate therapies. For many years, only the most severe and complicated bacterial infections received more detailed diagnostic and therapeutic attention as the efficiency of antibiotic therapy has guaranteed efficient treatment of patients suffering from the most common infections. Indeed, treatability almost became a rationale not to analyze bacterial and host parameters in these larger patient groups. Due to the rapid spread of antibiotic resistance, common infections like respiratory tract- or urinary-tract infections (UTIs) now pose new and significant therapeutic challenges. It is fortunate and timely that infectious disease research can offer such a wealth of new molecular information that is ready to use for the identification of susceptible patients and design of new suitable therapies. Paradoxically, the threat of antibiotic resistance may become a window of opportunity, by encouraging the implementation of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The frequency of antibiotic resistance is rising rapidly in uropathogenic organisms and the molecular and genetic understanding of UTI susceptibility is quite advanced. More bold translation of the new molecular diagnostic and therapeutic tools would not just be possible but of great potential benefit in this patient group. This chapter reviews the molecular basis for susceptibility to UTI, including recent advances in genetics, and discusses the consequences for diagnosis and therapy. By dissecting the increasingly well-defined molecular interactions between bacteria and host and the molecular features of excessive bacterial virulence or host-response malfunction, it is becoming possible to isolate the defensive from the damaging aspects of the host response. Distinguishing “good” from “bad” inflammation has been a long-term quest of biomedical science and in UTI, patients need the “good” aspects of the inflammatory response to resist infection while avoiding the “bad” aspects, causing chronicity and tissue damage.
Fourteen years of quality improvement education in healthcare: a utilisation-focused evaluation using concept mapping
Authors: Smith Frida , Alexandersson Patrik , Bergman Bo , Vaughn Lisa , Hellström Andreas
Published: December 2019

Background

The need for training in quality improvement for healthcare staff is well acknowledged, but long-term outcomes of such training are hard to evaluate. Behaviour change, improved organisational performance and results are sought for, but these variables are complex, multifactorial and difficult to assess.

Aim

The purpose of this article is to explore the personal and organisational outcomes identified by participants over 14 years of university-led QI courses for healthcare professionals.

Method

Inspired by the Kirkpatrick model for evaluation, we used concept mapping, a structured mixed method that allows for richness of data to be captured and visualised by inviting stakeholders throughout the process. In total, 331 previous course participants were included in the study by responding to two prompts, and 19 stakeholders taking part in the analysis process by doing the sorting.

Result

Two maps, one for personal outcomes and one for organisational outcomes, show clusters of the responses from previous course participants and how the outcomes relate to each other in meta-clusters. Both maps show possible long-term outcomes described by the previous course participants.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that it is possible that training in quality improvement with a strong experiential pedagogical approach fosters a long-term improvement capability for the course participants and, even more important, a long-term improvement capability (and increased improvement skill) in their respective organisations.
Centrifuge modelling of uplift response of suction caisson groups in soft clay
Authors: Zhu Bin , Dai Jia-lin , Kong De-qiong , Feng Ling-yun , Chen Yun-min
Published: December 2019

This paper describes a program of centrifuge model tests on the uplift behaviour of suction caisson foundations. The parameters considered were the loading rate, caisson diameter (D), soil strength profile, and type of footing (i.e., mono-caisson and tetra-caissons group). The loading responses were examined in terms of total uplift resistance, suction beneath the caisson lid, and the vertical displacements of the caisson and at the soil surface. There exists a critical uplift displacement, approximately 0.02D and 0.01D for the mono-caisson and the tetra-caissons groups, respectively, at which a turning point can be identified in the load–displacement curve. This was found to be attributed to the adhesion on the caisson–soil interface reaching a peak response and then dropping. Of interest is that the tetra-caissons group exhibits much greater normalized uplift resistance than the mono-caisson group before reaching an uplift displacement of about 0.02D, suggesting superiority of the former in term of serviceability. However, a reversed trend was observed at greater displacement, and accordingly an empirical model was derived to quantify the shadowing effect of caisson groups. Regarding the cyclic response, several cycles of large-amplitude loading are sufficient to reduce the ultimate bearing capacity of caisson(s) to below the self-weight of the inner soil plug(s), indicating a transition of failure mechanism.
Reconstruction of the cosmic equation of state for high redshift
Authors: Velasquez-Toribio A. M. , Machado M. M. , Fabris Julio C.
Published: December 2019

We investigate the possibilities of reconstructing the cosmic equation of state (EoS) for high redshift. In order to obtain general results, we use two model-independent approaches. The first reconstructs the EoS using comoving distance and the second makes use of the Hubble parameter data. To implement the first method, we use a recent set of Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs) measures. To implement the second method, we generate simulated data using the Sandage–Loeb (SL) effect; for the fiducial model, we use the $$\Lambda CDM$$ΛCDM model. In both cases, the statistical analysis is conducted through the Gaussian processes (non-parametric). In general, we demonstrate that this methodology for reconstructing the EoS using a non-parametric method plus a model-independent approach works appropriately due to the feasibility of calculation and the ease of introducing a priori information ($$H_ {0}$$H0 and $$\Omega _{m0}$$Ωm0). In the near future, following this methodology with a higher number of high quality data will help obtain strong restrictions for the EoS.