bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Makes a Locality Attractive? Estimates of the Amenity Value of Parks for Victoria
Authors: Evangelio Roberto , Hone Simon , Lee Moses , Prentice David
Published: June 2019

This paper provides the first estimates of the effects of parks on house prices within Victoria. We estimate hedonic regressions of house prices on the distance to six types of parks as well as a wide range of other amenities that may impact on house prices. We find some types of parks can have substantial positive impacts on house prices, particularly in regional Victoria. The results of this work can be used to construct estimates of the amenity value of a park for a rapid cost‐benefit analysis.
Early Screening for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Depression Among Injured Emergency Department Patients: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Jaramillo Stephany , Suffoletto Brian , Callaway Clifton , Pacella‐LaBarbara Maria
Published: June 2019

Background

Despite the risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and associated comorbidities after physical injury, few emergency departments (EDs) in the United States screen for the presence of psychological symptoms and conditions. Barriers to systematic screening could be overcome by using a tool that is both comprehensive and brief. This study aimed to determine 1) the feasibility of screening for posttraumatic sequelae among adults with minor injury in the ED and 2) the relationship between ED screening and later psychological symptoms and poor quality of life (QOL) at 6 weeks postinjury.

Methods

In the EDs of two Level I trauma centers, we enrolled injured patients (n = 149) who reported serious injury and/or life threat in the past 24 hours. Subjects completed the Posttraumatic Adjustment Scale (PAS) to screen for PTSD and depression in the ED, and 6 weeks later they completed assessments for symptoms of PTSD, depression, and trauma‐specific QOL (T‐QoL).

Results

Our retained sample at 6 weeks was 84 adults (51.2% male; mean ± SD age = 33 ± 11.88 years); 38% screened positive for PTSD, and 76% screened positive for depression in the ED. Controlling for age, hospital admission, and ED pain score, regression analyses revealed that a positive ED screen for both PTSD and depression was significantly associated with 6 weeks PTSD (p = 0.027, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92 to 15.14) and depressive symptoms (p = 0.001, 95% CI = 2.20 to 7.74), respectively. Further, a positive ED screen for depression (p = 0.043, 95% CI = –16.66 to –0.27) and PTSD (p = 0.015, 95% CI = –20.35 to –2.24) was significantly associated with lower T‐QoL.

Conclusions

These results suggest that it is feasible to identify patients at risk for postinjury sequelae in the ED; screening for mental health risk may identify patients in need of early intervention and further monitoring.
Development of a haptic feedback device to reduce syringe substitution and drug overdosage error
Authors: Williams D. , Eagle B. , Dingley J.
Published: June 2019

Despite use of colour‐coded labels, syringe substitution (syringe swap) error of anaesthetic drugs remains a frequent and potentially serious cause of iatrogenic harm. We explored the novel concept of using a simple device which can be fitted to existing syringes, and employs colour and raised elements (detents) to provide visual, haptic and auditory cues to supplement the visual cues provided by standard drug labelling, and particularly helps to differentiate, for example, syringes containing vaso‐active drugs from other syringes. We produced six different embodiments of the device, and performed a randomised unblinded study with 14 volunteers to identify the functional characteristics which met with the approval of the majority of participants, and the mechanical characteristics which produced adequate haptic feedback without excessive resistance to injection. The optimal design was identified, which required the user to exert a mean (SD) force of ~20 (7) N to overcome the resistance of the detents in the syringe. The majority of volunteers felt that a device of this type would be helpful in reducing the incidence of syringe substitution error; however, further research is needed to assess the efficacy of this innovation in the clinical environment.
Intrasubject comparison of digital vs. conventional workflow for screw‐retained single‐implant crowns: Prosthodontic and patient‐centered outcomes
Authors: Delize Vincent , Bouhy Alice , Lambert France , Lamy Marc
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The aim of this intrasubject clinical study was to measure and compare prosthodontic and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) in the fabrication of implant‐supported, all‐ceramic single crowns with a full digital workflow and a conventional workflow.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐one patients were subjected to first a digital (test group) and then a conventional impression (control group) at the same visit. From the intraoral optical scanner (IOS), a screw‐retained, monolithic crown was delivered according to a complete digital workflow (no cast), whereas a veneered crown on a zirconia (Zi) frame was provided as a control treatment. Both crowns were assessed during the clinical stages of try‐in. Prosthodontic outcomes (contact points, occlusion, PROMs, and esthetic results using the white esthetic score [WES]) were assessed.

Results

Occlusion and interproximal contacts showed comparable results for the two workflows (p = 0.37 and p = 0.36, respectively), whereas the global WES was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in the control group. Patient satisfaction scores, using visual analog scales (VAS), were significantly better for IOS than for conventional impressions (p = 0.0098). On the contrary, patients’ perception of the esthetic outcomes showed significantly higher value (p < 0.0001) in the control group.

Conclusions

Both workflows allowed the delivery of ceramic crowns within two appointments. The clinical fit was acceptable in both groups. A better esthetic outcome, in both patients’ and clinicians’ opinions, was found in the control group. PROMs showed higher satisfaction with the IOS.
Strengthening China's national biodiversity strategy to attain an ecological civilization
Authors: Wu Ruidong , Possingham Hugh P. , Yu Guangzhi , Jin Tong , Wang Junjun , Yang Feiling , Liu Shiliang , Ma Jianzhong , Liu Xi , Zhao Haiwei
Published: June 2019

Biodiversity conservation is essential for realizing China's new vision of an ecological civilization. China has been implementing numerous massive ecological sustainability and protected area (ES&PA) programs across the entire country. These programs have greatly restored degraded ecological environments, improved provisions of critical ecosystem services and increased rural livelihoods. However, despite the general improvements in environmental quality, the trend of rapid biodiversity loss has not been significantly reduced. We found that most of the current ES&PA programs lack explicit biodiversity goals, and thus have limited contributions to the conservation of biodiversity. Given the limited resources available for and huge investments associated with these programs, achieving greater biodiversity gains under them is the most cost‐effective way to conserve biodiversity. We recommend six strategies for strengthening the country's biodiversity conservation, that is, strengthening biodiversity in ES&PA programs, PAs as the core, integrating biodiversity and ecosystem services, delivering effective monitoring, broad inclusiveness of stakeholders and mainstreaming biodiversity. These strategies also highlight China's priorities for achieving significant progresses toward the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020, and should be important options for developing China's post‐2020 biodiversity framework.
THE COLLAPSE AND RECOVERY OF THE CAPITAL SHARE IN EAST GERMANY AFTER 1989
Authors: Cociuba Simona E.
Published: June 2019

After the 1990 unification, East Germany's capital income share plunged to 15.2% in 1991, then increased to 37.4% by 2015. To account for these large changes in the capital share, I model an economy that gains access to a higher productivity technology embodied in new plants. As existing low productivity plants decrease production, the capital share varies due to the nonconvex production technology: plants require a minimum amount of labor to produce output. Two policies—transfers and government‐mandated wage increases—have opposite effects on output growth, but contribute to lowering the capital share early in the transition. (JEL E20, E25, O11)
Plant composition, not richness, drives occurrence of specialist herbivores
Authors: Knuff Anna K. , Staab Michael , Frey Julian , Helbach Jan , Klein Alexandra‐Maria
Published: June 2019

1. How herbivore plant diversity relationships are shaped by the interplay of biotic and abiotic environmental variables is only partly understood. For instance, plant diversity is commonly assumed to determine abundance and richness of associated specialist herbivores. However, this relationship can be altered when environmental variables such as temperature covary with plant diversity.

2. Using gall‐inducing arthropods as focal organisms, biotic and abiotic environmental variables were tested for their relevance to specialist herbivores and their relationship to host plants. In particular, the hypothesis that abundance and richness of gall‐inducing arthropods increase with plant richness was addressed. Additionally, the study asked whether communities of gall‐inducing arthropods match the communities of their host plants.

3. Neither abundance nor species richness of gall‐inducing arthropods was correlated with plant richness or any other of the tested environmental variables. Instead, the number of gall species found per plant decreased with plant richness. This indicates that processes of associational resistance may explain the specialised plant herbivore relationship in our study.

4. Community composition of gall‐inducing arthropods matched host plant communities. In specialised plant herbivore relationships, the presence of obligate host plant species is a prerequisite for the occurrence of its herbivores.

5. It is concluded that the abiotic environment may only play an indirect role in shaping specialist herbivore communities. Instead, the occurrence of specialist herbivore communities might be best explained by plant species composition. Thus, plant species identity should be considered when aiming to understand the processes that shape diversity patterns of specialist herbivores.
Dental bridging as a treatment for large oral fistulae in two horses
Authors: Storms N. , Salciccia A. , de la Rebière de Pouyade G. , Evrard L. , Grulke S.
Published: June 2019

Chronic orocutaneous, oronasal, or orosinus fistulae can be challenging to repair. This report describes placement of a dental bridge as a treatment for oral fistulae and outcome in two horses. A 12‐year‐old, Westphalian gelding was presented for nasal discharge because of an oromaxillary fistula after dental repulsion of the Triadan 209 4 years earlier. The second case, a 5‐year‐old Oldenburg mare was presented for an orocutaneous fistula 7 weeks after dental repulsion of the Triadan 208. Both were treated by placing an 8‐shaped cerclage wire, inserted through the rostral and caudal interdental spaces and crossing at the level of the missing tooth. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) was then used to seal the fistula. No significant complications occurred during or after the surgery. In both cases clinical signs did not recur. In the first case the dental bridge is currently (5 years after the intervention) in place. In Case 2 the construction was removed after 1.5 years and the fistula had healed completely. This case report suggests that placing a dental bridge composed of cerclage wire andPMMAshould be considered as an easy, noninvasive and efficient way to manage large oromaxillary or orocutaneous fistulae.
HOw Patients view Extended half‐life products: Impressions from real‐world experience (The HOPE study)
Authors: Khair Kate , Pollard Debra , Harrison Catherine , Hook Susan , O’Driscoll Mike , Holland Michael
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Extended half‐life (EHL) clotting factors have been shown to offer people with haemophilia (PwH) protection from bleeding with fewer infusions, which might reduce treatment burden.

Aim

The HOw Patients view Extended half‐life products (HOPE) study aimed to explore, understand and describe patient expectations around the prophylactic use of EHL products and to establish whether these expectations were met through individual follow‐up analysis.

Methods

The HOPE study was a prospective, qualitative cohort study conducted among PwH who had switched to Fc fusion protein EHL products in routine clinical care and who had not been recruited to clinical trials of these products. Semi‐structured audio‐recorded interviews were undertaken over two time points; transcripts were analysed to systematically generate theory from data that contains both inductive and deductive thinking.

Results

Forty‐three interviews were conducted with 25 participants. Most participants were positive about EHL treatment and intended to continue using them. Reduced frequency of infusions meant lives were less disrupted or dominated by haemophilia, and there was less perceived stress on overused veins. For those PwH who did not reduce infusion frequency, there were other perceived benefits from EHLs with respect to greater protection with higher trough levels and fewer bleeds.

Conclusion

Patients switching to EHL treatments believe these products will result in fewer infusions and less disruption of everyday life, leaving them feeling more protected with fewer bleeds and increased activity levels, as well as enhanced well‐being and mental health. Understanding patient expectation and experience around using products adds real‐world data to clinical trial experience.
Healthcare professionals in the ‘tainted blood’ era in Canada: Their forgotten emotions
Authors: Poon Man‐Chiu , Shedden Nicole , Card Robert T.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

During the 1970s and early 1980s, Canada's comprehensive care haemophilic programs were established. Newer therapies led to a rapid increase in quality of life and expected life span for persons with haemophilia (PWH). The outlook was bright. However, beginning in 1982, the appearance of HIV/AIDS transmitted by treatment products led to the ‘tainted blood’ era with its devastating impact on PWH, recently highlighted in the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation mini‐series ‘Unspeakable’. What has received less notice is how the healthcare professionals (HCP) managing these patients then were affected.

Aim

To report the emotional effects of that era on HCPs.

Methods

In developing an oral history of haemophilic care in Canada we have interviewed 76 HCPs, the majority of whom had worked in haemophilic clinics during that era. During each interview, we asked the interviewee to reflect on what this did to haemophilic care and to him/herself. The interview responses were analysed.

Results

HCPs have been markedly affected by the events of the 1980s with feelings that persist more than 30 years later. Most related to the loss of so many of their patients and the inability to alter the rapidly changing course of events at the time.

Conclusion

The ‘tainted blood’ era had persistent strong emotional effects on HCPs. They were helpless to stop or to mitigate the devastating epidemics. Wellness support programs were less well developed then. While the focus is in the Canadian context, we suggest that a parallel can be drawn within haemophilic communities in other countries.
Option weights should be determined empirically and not by experts when assessing knowledge with multiple‐choice items
Authors: Diedenhofen Birk , Musch Jochen
Published: June 2019

Multiple‐choice tests are frequently used in personnel selection contexts to measure knowledge and abilities. Option weighting is an alternative multiple‐choice scoring procedure that awards partial credit for incomplete knowledge reflected in applicants’ distractor choices. We investigated whether option weights should be based on expert judgment or on empirical data when trying to outperform conventional number‐right scoring in terms of reliability and validity. To obtain generalizable results, we used repeated random sub‐sampling validation and found that empirical option weighting, but not expert option weighting, increased the reliability of a knowledge test. Neither option weighting procedure improved test validity. We recommend to improve the reliability of existing ability and knowledge tests used for personnel selection by computing and publishing empirical option weights.
Prostate cancer meeting the Japanese active surveillance criteria and diagnosed by community‐based prostate‐specific antigen screening: A 21‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Hongo Fumiya , Okihara Koji , Kitamura Koji , Fujihara Atsuko , Yamada Yasuhiro , Shiraishi Takumi , Konishi Eichi , Ukimura Osamu
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the oncological outcomes of Japanese patients with prostate cancer diagnosed by community‐based prostate‐specific antigen screening during a 21‐year period who satisfied the criteria for active surveillance.

Methods

Active surveillance candidates were extracted from the community‐based screening registry of Otokuni district in Kyoto prefecture. The frequency of active surveillance candidates before and after publication of the active surveillance criteria in Japan was analyzed. In addition, we examined the frequency of switching to curative intervention and treatment failure among active surveillance candidates, including the patients who selected active surveillance.

Results

During the study period, 868 patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 780 of these patients were analyzed. Among them, 190 patients (24%) satisfied our active surveillance criteria (21 and 169 in the pre‐active surveillance era and active surveillance era, respectively). Of the 169 patients in the active surveillance era, 74 initially selected active surveillance. The number of active surveillance candidates increased with increasing age, and the proportion of active surveillance candidates among prostate cancer patients also increased significantly each year (P < 0.001). In the active surveillance group, the median follow‐up period was 4 years and 35% switched to curative intervention. Among the 190 active surveillance candidates, seven died of other causes, but there were no deaths from prostate cancer.

Conclusions

Changes of active surveillance candidates in one district of Japan were successfully analyzed by using consistent active surveillance selection criteria and data obtained by a single pathologist. Oncological outcomes were good among active surveillance candidates in the low‐risk group.
Iron insufficiency among young Australian women: a population‐based survey
Authors: Islam Rakibul M. , Bell Robin J. , Skiba Marina A. , Trambas Christina M. , Davis Susan R.
Published: June 2019

Background

Although serum ferritin is considered a reliable indicator of iron stores, there are few data documenting the prevalence of low ferritin in representative samples of young women.

Aims

To estimate the prevalence of low ferritin and to identify factors associated with low ferritin in young Australian women.

Methods

Women, aged 18–39 years, living in the eastern states of Australia were recruited by email to a cross‐sectional, online questionnaire‐based study between November 2016 and July 2017. Participants not pregnant, breast feeding, taking hormonal contraception, using assisted reproduction or postmenopausal were invited to provide a blood sample.

Results

Of the 3689 invited participants, 761 (23.1%) provided a sample and 736 women, mean (SD) age 31.7 (±5.6) years, were included in the analyses. The overall prevalence of serum ferritin <30 μg/L was 34.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 31.4–38.3%), with 41.4% (35.1–48.0%) in NSW, 31.5% (26.4–37.1%) in Victoria and 32.6% (26.8–39.0%) in Queensland. Serum ferritin <30 μg/L was positively associated with the reporting of >2 days of heavy menstrual bleeding (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.73, 95% CI 1.15–2.59), living in New South Wales (AOR 1.57, 95% CI 1.07–2.30), not working outside home (AOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.01–2.49), and inversely associated with never experiencing heavy menses (AOR 0.46, 95% CI 0.23–0.93) and obesity (AOR 0.32, 95% CI 0.21–0.50).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that serum ferritin below 30 μg/L is common amongst young Australian women. Healthcare professionals should note the association between low ferritin and heavy bleeding.
Appropriateness of ultrasound imaging for thyroid pathology, the standard of radiology reporting on thyroid nodules and the detection rates of thyroid malignancy: a tertiary centre retrospective audit
Authors: Joseph Flavian G. , Rubtsov Denis , Davoren Peter
Published: June 2019

Background

The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing worldwide without a simultaneous rise in mortality. It is thought that the incidence of non‐clinically significant thyroid cancers are on the rise as a result of more sensitive diagnostic imaging.

Aim

To determine the number of inappropriate requests for thyroid ultrasound (US), the quality of radiology reporting for thyroid nodules based on accepted guidelines and the resultant number of thyroid cancers identified because of these investigations.

Methods

Electronic medical records of patients who underwent thyroid US imaging and thereafter referred to the Endocrine Department at Gold Coast University Hospital, Queensland, between July 2014 and July 2017 were reviewed. Data for 251 patients who had thyroid US were analysed and the final 201 patients who were found to have thyroid nodules were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Indications for thyroid US imaging among referring clinicians were assessed and we compared both clinical management and radiology reporting practices of thyroid nodules to the published 2009 and 2015 American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines.

Results

There were 50.2% of patients with initial thyroid US imaging deemed outside of expert recommendations where 42% of these patients required further surveillance imaging and 25.4% required fine needle aspiration of their thyroid nodules. A definite recommendation whether to evaluate thyroid nodules further was provided in 44.8% of radiology reports. There were no radiology reports that described thyroid nodules findings based on patterns as recommended by the 2015 ATA guidelines. Two cases of thyroid cancer were detected including one patient with prior history of thyroid cancer and a second patient with hypothyroidism.

Conclusion

Routine use of US thyroid imaging outside expert recommendation is common. There is lack of standardised reporting when assessing thyroid nodules on US. Limiting the initial use of US in cases of palpable neck lumps and the use of systematic reporting according to the 2017 guidelines published by the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System may reduce unnecessary investigations for thyroid nodules in the future.
Best Practice Adherence and Workplace Facilitators and Hindrances for Psychologists Working With Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities and Co‐Morbid Mental Health Concerns
Authors: Man Joyce , Kangas Maria
Published: June 2019

A number of practice guidelines are available to set the benchmark for best practice when working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and co‐morbid mental health concerns. However, dissemination and implementation of such guidelines in the context of psychologists' work settings has received little attention. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate adherence to current practice guidelines by Australian psychologists working with this specialist population and explore organizational factors that may facilitate or hinder evidence‐based practice implementation. Thirty‐eight Australian psychologists from government disability and non‐government disability organizations working primarily with individuals with intellectual disability participated in eight semistructured focus groups. Psychologists were presented with a summary of a current Australian practice guideline in dual disabilities and asked about their views of best practice adherence and implementation of the guideline including facilitative and hindering factors influencing implementation. Psychologists reported views consistent with current Australian best practice standards but noted a number of barriers impacting on adherence. Facilitators and hindrances to best practice implementation were discussed in relation to views on applicability of current guideline, organizational level considerations, organizational resources and training, organizational operations, and systemic considerations. Findings highlight the importance of a collaborative and systemic approach in order for practice guidelines to be effectively implemented for psychologists working with disabilities. Implications for policy development and training are discussed.
The influence of landscape, climate and history on spatial genetic patterns in keystone plants (Azorella) on sub‐Antarctic islands
Authors: Chau John H. , Born Céline , McGeoch Melodie A. , Bergstrom Dana , Shaw Justine , Terauds Aleks , Mairal Mario , Le Roux Johannes J. , Jansen van Vuuren Bettine
Published: June 2019

The distribution of genetic variation in species is governed by factors that act differently across spatial scales. To tease apart the contribution of different processes, especially at intermediate spatial scales, it is useful to study simple ecosystems such as those on sub‐Antarctic oceanic islands. In this study, we characterize spatial genetic patterns of two keystone plant species, Azorella selago on sub‐Antarctic Marion Island and Azorella macquariensis on sub‐Antarctic Macquarie Island. Although both islands experience a similar climate and have a similar vegetation structure, they differ significantly in topography and geological history. We genotyped six microsatellites for 1,149 individuals from 123 sites across Marion Island and 372 individuals from 42 sites across Macquarie Island. We tested for spatial patterns in genetic diversity, including correlation with elevation and vegetation type, and clines in different directional bearings. We also examined genetic differentiation within islands, isolation‐by‐distance with and without accounting for direction, and signals of demographic change. Marion Island was found to have a distinct northwest–southeast divide, with lower genetic diversity and more sites with a signal of population expansion in the northwest. We attribute this to asymmetric seed dispersal by the dominant northwesterly winds, and to population persistence in a southwestern refugium during the Last Glacial Maximum. No apparent spatial pattern, but greater genetic diversity and differentiation between sites, was found on Macquarie Island, which may be due to the narrow length of the island in the direction of the dominant winds and longer population persistence permitted by the lack of extensive glaciation on the island. Together, our results clearly illustrate the implications of island shape and geography, and the importance of direction‐dependent drivers, in shaping spatial genetic structure.
Prognostic Differences in Patients with Solitary and Multiple Spinal Metastases
Authors: Lun Deng‐xing , Xu Li‐na , Wang Feng , Yang Xiong‐gang , Yu Xiu‐chun , Zhang Guo‐chuan , Hu Yong‐cheng
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To investigate the association between the number of metastases to the spine and survival in patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC), as well as the prognosis difference between patients with solitary spinal metastasis (SSM) and multiple spinal metastases (MSM).

Methods

Three institutional databases were searched to identify all patients who had undergone spinal surgery for metastatic spinal tumors between March 2002 and June 2010. As well as age and gender, preoperative medical conditions were collected from medical records, including primary tumor, preoperative Frankel score, other bone metastases, preoperative Karnofsky performance status (KPS), number of involved vertebrae, pathological fracture metastasis site, serum albumin, sphincter dysfunction and the time of developing motor deficits before surgery. Survival data were obtained from medical records or via telephone follow‐ups. Univariate and multivariate predictors of overall survival for each group were assessed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The median postoperative survival time was 6.0 ± 0.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.8–7.2) in patients with SSM and 7.0 ± 1.0 months (95% CI 5.1–8.9) in patients with MSM (P = 0.238). The difference in survival was not significant between groups. Furthermore, univariate analysis showed that the number of spinal metastases had no significant association with survival (P = 0.075). Primary tumor (P = 0.004) and preoperative KPS (P < 0.001) were independent prognostic factors in the whole cohort; primary tumor (P = 0.020), time of developing motor deficit (P = 0.041) and preoperative KPS (P = 0.038) were independent prognostic factors in patients with SSM; while preoperative KPS (P = 0.001) and serum album level (P < 0.001) were independent prognostic factors in patients with MSM.

Conclusion

The number of spinal metastases has not proven to be useful in predicting the prognosis for patients with MSCC. Consequently, more aggressive operations should be considered for patients with multiple spinal metastases.
Remission after complete excision of an intramedullary hemangioma with an identifiable tumor plane in a dog
Authors: Yanke Amy B. , Miller Margaret A. , Fulkerson Caroline V. , Bohn Kendra , Bentley R. Timothy
Published: June 2019

Objective

To describe the use of an identifiable tumor plane (ITP) during myelotomy to excise an intramedullary hemangioma in a dog and report the outcome.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

One 5.5‐year‐old 42.9‐kg spayed female Leonberger dog.

Methods

Clinical signs included progressive proprioceptive deficits of both pelvic limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging was consistent with a dorsal intramedullary mass at L3‐L4. A laminectomy of the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae provided access for dorsal myelotomy. A clear surgical ITP was identified between the intramedullary mass and the spinal cord facilitating complete surgical resection.

Results

Histopathological examination was consistent with a hemangioma. Postoperative MRI was consistent with complete excision of the mass. No evidence of recurrence was found by MRI at 3 months and at 22 months after surgery. Mild proprioceptive deficits persisted in the right pelvic limb.

Conclusion

A clear ITP was present, and gross‐total resection (GTR) was achieved without significant morbidity. Persistent clinical remission resulted from surgery as the sole therapy.

Clinical significance

For an intramedullary tumor, GTR is the absence of visible tumor on intraoperative inspection combined with the absence of intramedullary contrast enhancement on postoperative MRI. When an ITP is present, GTR and resultant long‐term remission may be more likely.
Evaluation of the Synergy of Ceftazidime-Avibactam in Combination with Meropenem, Amikacin, Aztreonam, Colistin, or Fosfomycin against Well-Characterized Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Mikhail Sandra , Singh Nivedita B. , Kebriaei Razieh , Rice Seth A. , Stamper Kyle C. , Castanheira Mariana , Rybak Michael J.
Published: June 2019

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative organisms are a major health concern due to lack of effective therapy. Emergence of resistance to newer agents like ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA) further magnifies the problem. In this context, combination therapy of CZA with other antimicrobials may have potential in treating these pathogens. Unfortunately, there are limited data regarding these combinations.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Solithromycin against Streptococcus pneumoniae Using Data from a Neutropenic Murine Lung Infection Model
Authors: Okusanya Olanrewaju O. , Forrest Alan , Bhavnani Sujata M. , Fernandes Prabhavathi , Ambrose Paul G. , Andes David R.
Published: June 2019

Solithromycin (CEM-101) is a novel fluoroketolide antimicrobial agent with activity against typical and atypical pathogens associated with community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. Using a neutropenic murine lung infection model, the objectives of this study were to identify the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) index most closely associated with efficacy and the magnitude of such indices associated with solithromycin efficacy against
Streptococcus pneumoniae
.
From Intracellular Bacteria to Differentiated Bacteroids: Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis in
Aeschynomene
Nodules Using the
Bradyrhizobium
sp. Strain ORS285
bclA
Mutant
Authors: Lamouche Florian , Chaumeret Anaïs , Guefrachi Ibtissem , Barrière Quentin , Pierre Olivier , Guérard Florence , Gilard Françoise , Giraud Eric , Dessaux Yves , Gakière Bertrand , Timchenko Tatiana , Kereszt Attila , Mergaert Peter , Alunni Benoit
Published: June 2019

Legume-rhizobium symbiosis is a major ecological process, fueling the biogeochemical nitrogen cycle with reduced nitrogen. It also represents a promising strategy to reduce the use of chemical nitrogen fertilizers in agriculture, thereby improving its sustainability. This interaction leads to the intracellular accommodation of rhizobia within plant cells of symbiotic organs, where they differentiate into nitrogen-fixing bacteroids. In specific legume clades, this differentiation process requires the bacterial transporter BclA to counteract antimicrobial peptides produced by the host. Transcriptome analysis of
Bradyrhizobium
wild-type and
bclA
mutant bacteria in culture and in symbiosis with
Aeschynomene
host plants dissected the bacterial transcriptional response in distinct phases and highlighted functions of the transporter in the free-living stage of the bacterial life cycle.
Invasive Pneumococcal Disease and Influenza Activity in a Pediatric Population: Impact of PCV13 Vaccination in Epidemic and Nonepidemic Influenza Periods
Authors: Hernández Sergi , Muñoz-Almagro Carmen , Ciruela Pilar , Soldevila Núria , Izquierdo Conchita , Codina Maria Gemma , Díaz Alvaro , Moraga-Llop Fernando , García-García Juan José , Domínguez Ángela
Published: June 2019

The objective of this study was to analyze the incidence, clinical presentation, and severity of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD)-causing serotypes and the impact of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccination during epidemic and nonepidemic influenza periods in Catalonia, Spain. This was a prospective study in persons aged <18 years diagnosed with IPD between 2012 and 2015 in three Catalan pediatric hospitals.
Extracellular Albumin and Endosomal Ions Prime Enterovirus Particles for Uncoating That Can Be Prevented by Fatty Acid Saturation
Authors: Ruokolainen Visa , Domanska Aušra , Laajala Mira , Pelliccia Maria , Butcher Sarah J. , Marjomäki Varpu
Published: June 2019

There is limited information about the uncoating of enteroviruses under physiological conditions. Here, we focused on physiologically relevant factors that likely contribute to opening of echovirus 1 and other B-group enteroviruses. By combining biochemical and structural data, we show that, before entering cells, extracellular albumin is capable of priming the virus into a metastable yet infectious intermediate state. The ionic changes that are suggested to occur in endosomes can further contribute to uncoating and promote genome release, once the viral particle is endocytosed. Importantly, we provide a detailed high-resolution structure of a virion after treatment with albumin and a preset ion composition, showing pocket factor release, capsid expansion, and fenestration and the clearly visible genome still anchored to the capsid. This study provides valuable information about the physiological factors that contribute to the opening of B group enteroviruses.
High-Throughput Analysis of Gene Function in the Bacterial Predator Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus
Authors: Duncan Miles C. , Gillette Rebecca K. , Maglasang Micah A. , Corn Elizabeth A. , Tai Albert K. , Lazinski David W. , Shanks Robert M. Q. , Kadouri Daniel E. , Camilli Andrew
Published: June 2019

Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus
is a predatory bacterium that can kill a wide range of Gram-negative bacteria, including many human pathogens. Given the global rise of antibiotic resistance and dearth of new antibiotics discovered in the past 30 years, this predator has potential as an alternative to traditional antibiotics. For many years,
B. bacteriovorus
research was hampered by a lack of genetic tools, and the genetic mechanisms of predation have only recently begun to be established. Here, we comprehensively identify and characterize predator genes required for killing bacterial prey, as well as genes that interfere in this process, which may allow us to design better therapeutic predators. Based on our study, we and other researchers may ultimately be able to genetically engineer strains that have improved killing rates, target specific species of prey, or preferentially target prey in the planktonic or biofilm state.
Potent Enhancement of HIV-1 Replication by Nef in the Absence of SERINC3 and SERINC5
Authors: Wu Yuanfei , Olety Balaji , Weiss Eric R. , Popova Elena , Yamanaka Hikaru , Göttlinger Heinrich
Published: June 2019

The Nef protein of HIV-1 and the unrelated glycoGag protein of a murine leukemia virus similarly prevent the uptake of antiviral host proteins called SERINC3 and SERINC5 into HIV-1 particles, which enhances their infectiousness. We now show that although both SERINC antagonists can in principle similarly enhance HIV-1 replication, glycoGag is unable to substitute for Nef in primary human cells and in a T cell line called MOLT-3. In MOLT-3 cells, Nef remained crucial for HIV-1 replication even in the absence of SERINC3 and SERINC5. The pronounced effect of Nef on HIV-1 spreading in MOLT-3 cells correlated with the ability of Nef to engage cellular endocytic machinery and to downregulate the HIV-1 receptor CD4 but nevertheless persisted in the absence of CD4 downregulation. Collectively, our results provide evidence for a potent novel restriction activity that affects even relatively SERINC-resistant HIV-1 isolates and is counteracted by Nef.
The Yeast PCNA Unloader Elg1 RFC-Like Complex Plays a Role in Eliciting the DNA Damage Checkpoint
Authors: Sau Soumitra , Liefshitz Batia , Kupiec Martin
Published: June 2019

The Elg1protein forms an RFC-like complex in charge of unloading PCNA from chromatin during DNA replication and repair. Mutations in the
ELG1
gene caused genomic instability in all organisms tested and cancer in mammals. Here we show that Elg1 plays a role in the induction of the DNA damage checkpoint, a cellular response to DNA damage. We show that this defect is due to a defect in the signal amplification process during induction. Thus, cells coordinate the cell's response and the PCNA unloading through the activity of Elg1.
Towards Translational Epidemiology: Next-Generation Sequencing and Phylogeography as Epidemiological Mainstays
Authors: Hepp Crystal M.
Published: June 2019

Next-generation sequencing, coupled with the development of user-friendly software, has achieved a level of accessibility that is revolutionizing the way we approach epidemiological investigations. We can sequence pathogen genomes and conduct phylogenetic analyses to assess transmission, identify from which country or city a pathogen originated, or which contaminated potluck item resulted in widespread foodborne illness.
Synthetic Gene Circuits Enable Systems-Level Biosensor Trigger Discovery at the Host-Microbe Interface
Authors: Naydich Alexander D. , Nangle Shannon N. , Bues Johannes J. , Trivedi Disha , Nissar Nabeel , Inniss Mara C. , Niederhuber Matthew J. , Way Jeffrey C. , Silver Pamela A. , Riglar David T.
Published: June 2019

The gut is a largely obscure and inaccessible environment. The use of live, engineered probiotics to detect and respond to disease signals
in vivo
represents a new frontier in the management of gut diseases. Engineered probiotics have also shown promise as a novel mechanism for drug delivery. However, the design and construction of effective strains that respond to the
in vivo
environment is hindered by our limited understanding of bacterial behavior in the gut. Our work expands the pool of environmentally responsive synthetic circuits for the healthy and diseased gut, providing insight into host-microbe interactions and enabling future development of increasingly complex biosensors. This method also provides a framework for rapid prototyping of engineered systems and for application across bacterial strains and disease models, representing a practical step toward the construction of clinically useful synthetic tools.
Systems Analyses Reveal the Resilience of Escherichia coli Physiology during Accumulation and Export of the Nonnative Organic Acid Citramalate
Authors: Webb Joseph , Springthorpe Vicki , Rossoni Luca , Minde David-Paul , Langer Swen , Walker Heather , Alstrom-Moore Amias , Larson Tony , Lilley Kathryn , Eastham Graham , Stephens Gill , Thomas Gavin H. , Kelly David J. , Green Jeffrey
Published: June 2019

Citramalate is an attractive biotechnology target because it is a precursor of methylmethacrylate, which is used to manufacture Perspex and other high-value products. Engineered
E. coli
strains are able to produce high titers of citramalate, despite having to express a foreign enzyme and tolerate the presence of a nonnative biochemical. A systems analysis of the citramalate fermentation was undertaken to uncover the reasons underpinning its productivity. This showed that
E. coli
readily adjusts to the redirection of metabolic resources toward recombinant protein and citramalate production and suggests that
E. coli
is an excellent chassis for manufacturing similar small, polar, foreign molecules.
Recycling of depleted continental mantle by subduction and plumes at the Hikurangi Plateau large igneous province, southwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Mochizuki K. , Sutherland R. , Henrys S. , Bassett D. , Van Avendonk H. , Arai R. , Kodaira S. , Fujie G. , Yamamoto Y. , Bangs N. , Barker D.
Published: June 2019

Seismic reflection and refraction data from Hikurangi Plateau (southwestern Pacific Ocean) require a crustal thickness of 10 ± 1 km, seismic velocity of 7.25 ± 0.35 km/s at the base of the crust, and mantle velocity of 8.30 ± 0.25 km/s just beneath the Moho. Published models of gravity data that assume normal crust and mantle density predict 5–10-km-thicker crust than we observe, suggesting that the mantle beneath Hikurangi Plateau has anomalously low density, which is inconsistent with previous suggestions of eclogite to explain observations of high seismic velocity. The combination of high seismic velocity and low density requires the mantle to be highly depleted and not serpentinized. We propose that Hikurangi Plateau formed by decompression melting of buoyant mantle that was removed from a craton root by subduction, held beneath 660 km by viscous coupling to slabs, and then rose as a plume from the lower mantle. Ancient Re-Os ages from mantle xenoliths in nearby South Island, New Zealand, support this hypothesis. Erosion of buoyant depleted mantle from craton roots by subduction and then recycling in plumes to make new lithosphere may be an important global geochemical process.
Effects of pulsed low-frequency magnetic field therapy on pain intensity in patients with musculoskeletal chronic low back pain: study protocol for a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Abdulla Fuad A , Alsaadi Saad , Sadat-Ali MIR , Alkhamis Fahd , Alkawaja Hani , Lo Serigne
Published: June 2019

Introduction

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effectiveness of pulsed low-frequency magnetic field (PLFMF) on the management of chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Methods and analysis

A randomised double-blinded controlled clinical trial will be conducted, involving 200 patients with CLBP. Participants will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive either active PLFMF (experimental arm) or sham treatment (control arm) using a permuted-block design which will be stratified according to three subtypes of musculoskeletal CLBP (nociceptive, peripheral neuropathic or central sanitisation). The intervention consists of three sessions/week for 6 weeks. The primary outcome is the percentage change in Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain at week 24 after treatment completion with respect to the baseline. Secondary outcomes include percentage NRS pain during treatment and early after treatment completion, short form 36 quality of life, Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire; Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21, Patient Specific Functional Scale, Global perceived effect of condition change, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Measures will be taken at baseline, 3 and 6 weeks during the intervention and 6, 12 and 24 weeks after completing the intervention. Adverse events between arms will be evaluated. Data will be analysed on an intention-to-treat basis.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is funded by Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU). It has been approved by the institutional review board of IAU (IRB‐ 2017‐03–129). The study will be conducted at King Fahd Hospital of the University and will be monitored by the Hospital monitoring office for research and research ethics. The trial is scheduled to begin in September 2018. Results obtained will be presented in international conferences and will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12618000921280, prospectively.
Sexual harassment and assault among university students in Norway: a cross-sectional prevalence study
Authors: Sivertsen Børge , Nielsen Morten Birkeland , Madsen Ida E H , Knapstad Marit , Lønning Kari Jussie , Hysing Mari
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of the current study was to provide estimates of both overall and specific forms of sexual harassment among male and female college and university students.

Design and setting

Data stem from a recent national student health survey from 2018 for higher education in Norway (the SHoT study (Students’ Health and Wellbeing Study)).

Participants

50 054 full-time students (69.1% women) aged 18–35 years participated, yielding a response rate of 31%.

Main outcome measure

Sexual harassment was defined according to Norwegian legal regulations, and was assessed by self-report on seven items covering verbal, non-verbal and physical sexual harassment. We also collected data on the timeframe and frequency of the sexual harassment, in addition to the formal position of the perpetrator of the harassment.

Results

Lifetime sexual harassment was reported by 24.2% (women 31.3%, men 8.0%), while 16.7% (women 21.6%, men 5.7%) reported having been sexually harassed within the past year. The most common forms of lifetime (ever having experienced) sexual harassments were ‘sexual expressions, suggestions or comments about your body’ and ‘unwanted touching, hugging or kissing’ (both 15.4%), while rape and rape attempt were reported by 3.4% and 2.1%, respectively. Exposure to all forms of past-year sexual harassments was significantly more common among women and the youngest age cohorts. Fellow students committed the past-year sexual harassment in 18%–29% of the instances, while a university staff member was reported to have committed the harassment in 0.6%–4.6% of cases.

Conclusion

Given the potential consequences suffered by those exposed to sexual harassment and assault, both the institutions and student welfare organisations should intensify their efforts to put the theme on the agenda and provide both legal and health services to victims of sexual harassment. The low response rate means that care should be taken in interpreting and generalising the findings to the whole student population.