bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hygieneempfehlungen in der ambulanten Dermatochirurgie
Authors: Löser Christoph R. , Dirschka Thomas , Felcht Moritz , Dippel Edgar , Kevekordes Sebastian
Published: August 2021

Das Infektionsschutzgesetz und länderspezifische rechtsverbindliche Vorgaben fordern geeignete Maßnahmen, um nosokomiale Infektionen zu verhüten und die Weiterverbreitung von Krankheitserregern, insbesondere solcher mit Resistenzen, zu vermeiden. Dies betrifft auch das ambulante Operieren an der Haut. Besonderer Fokus liegt dabei auf der Händehygiene, Antiseptik, einer hygienischen Arbeitsweise und der fachgerechten Instrumentenaufbereitung. Jede dermatologische Einrichtung, in der ambulant operiert wird, steht in der Verpflichtung, ihre Hygiene zu organisieren und zu verantworten. Die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen sind in unterschiedlichen Gesetzen und Verordnungen geregelt und müssen eingehalten werden.
Liraglutide reduces cardiac adipose tissue in type 2 diabetes: A secondary analysis of the LIRAFLAME randomized placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Rasmussen Ida K. B. , Zobel Emilie H. , Ripa Rasmus S. , von Scholten Bernt J. , Curovic Viktor R. , Jensen Jacob K. , Kjaer Andreas , Hansen Tine W. , Rossing Peter
Published: August 2021

Aim

To test the hypothesis that treatment with liraglutide can reduce cardiac adipose tissue.

Materials and methods

LIRAFLAME is a randomized placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, parallel clinical study. Participants with type 2 diabetes were randomized to treatment with liraglutide 1.8 mg/d or placebo for 26 weeks. Computed tomography was performed at baseline and at end of treatment to evaluate the cardiac adipose tissue volume, quantified automatically. We report the results of a secondary endpoint evaluating changes in cardiac adipose tissue.

Results

A total of 102 participants were randomly assigned to liraglutide (n = 51) or placebo (n = 51). At baseline, the mean (SD) cardiac adipose tissue volume was comparable between the liraglutide and the placebo group (232.6 [112.8] vs. 227.0 [103.2] mL; P = 0.80). The mean change in body weight was −3.7 (−4.8, −2.6) kg in the liraglutide and −0.18 (−0.76, 0.40) kg in the placebo group. From baseline to end of treatment the mean cardiac adipose tissue change was −11.5 (95% confidence interval −17.6, −5.4) mL in the liraglutide (P < 0.001) and −0.01 (−5.3, 5.3) mL in the placebo (P = 1.00) groups. The reduction in cardiac adipose tissue was significantly greater in the liraglutide compared to the placebo group (mean difference −11.4 [−19.4, −3.3] mL; P = 0.006), but significance was lost after adjustment for changes in body mass index (P = 0.46).

Conclusion

Treatment with liraglutide for 26 weeks was associated with a reduction in cardiac adipose tissue compared to placebo. The reduction was not independent of weight loss, suggesting that this is not a drug‐specific effect.
A clinical overview of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: A guide to diagnosis, the clinical features, and complications—What the non‐specialist needs to know
Authors: Muthiah Mark D. , Cheng Han Ng , Sanyal Arun J.
Published: August 2021

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a rapidly rising prevalence worldwide and is the most common cause of liver disease in developed countries. In this article, we discuss the spectrum of disease of NAFLD with a focus on the earlier spectrum of the disease that is commonly encountered by non‐specialists, as well as the hepatic and extra‐hepatic associations of the disease. We discuss in detail the two common presentations of NAFLD, incidentally detected hepatic steatosis and asymptomatic raised liver enzymes, and provide an algorithm for management and continued to follow up for these patients. Considerations for the management of cardiovascular comorbidities in these patients are also discussed. Finally, we cover the topic of screening for NAFLD in high‐risk populations.
Construction of immune/Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease‐related gene coexpression network to predict biomarkers
Authors: Hai Xiaoou , Zhou Jiaming , Liu Guangyan
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD) is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy characterized by rapid onset and high mortality. Despite considerable progress in the treatment and diagnosis of CJD, patient prognosis remains poor. Many studies have found that the immune response is associated with the pathophysiology of CJD. However, few studies have reported coexpression correlations between genes associated with CJD and the immune response. This study was undertaken to construct a network of coexpressed immune‐ and CJD‐related genes that may reveal new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CJD.

Methods

Gene expression data from 11 CJD patients and 10 nonneurological controls were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. High‐confidence protein–protein interaction (PPI) data were downloaded from the Human Protein Reference Database, and gene expression data of immune‐ and CJD‐associated genes were downloaded from the AmiGo16 and DisGeNET databases, respectively. An immune/CJD‐related expression network was constructed based on Pearson correlation coefficients and PPI networks, and a CJD‐directed neighbour coexpression network was extracted, in which we compared the gene expression patterns and correlations between different groups. The samples were classified using CJD‐specific modules, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the CJD and nonneurological controls groups were identified within the CJD‐specific modules. Further functional analysis was performed using Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of genes in each CJD‐specific module.

Results

We constructed an immune/CJD‐related coexpression gene network comprising 2007 nodes and 5268 edges, with immune‐associated genes occupying important positions in the network. In the CJD‐directed neighbour coexpression network, immune‐associated genes exhibited the highest coexpression level with their interacting genes. Results from Pearson correlation analysis showed that most of the CJD‐associated genes were positively correlated with immune‐associated genes. Screening for CJD‐specific modules identified MAPK1, CASP3, APP, MAPT, SNCA, and YWHAH, indicating a close connection between CJD and the immune response. Analyses of coexpression status and expression level of CJD‐specific genes revealed a very high coexpression pattern for any two genes, with most genes being DEGs. Finally, KEGG enrichment analyses of all CJD‐specific genes showed that the pathophysiology of CJD is closely related to infection and the immune response.

Conclusions

Our coexpression network analysis revealed a close connection between CJD‐ and immune‐associated genes, and we identified six CJD‐specific modules. Biological function analysis of CJD‐specific module genes revealed that immune responses are associated with CJD pathophysiology and may provide novel diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for this disease.
Type of headache at onset and risk for complications in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
Authors: Lange Kristin Sophie , Forster Ophélie , Mawet Jérôme , Tuloup Gabrielle , Burcin Cécilia , Corti Lucas , Duflos Claire , Roos Caroline , Ducros Anne
Published: August 2021

Background

In a recent Italian study, 30% of patients with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) presented without thunderclap headache (TCH), and tended to present more severe forms of RCVS than patients with TCH. We aimed to analyze the risk for complications of RCVS in patients with and without TCH at onset.

Methods

In a pooled cohort of 345 French patients with RCVS, we compared patients with and without TCH at onset regarding rates of neurological complications, and the functional outcome at 3 months.

Results

As compared to the 281 patients with TCH at onset, the 64 patients without TCH had a higher risk for any neurological complication (61% vs. 24%, OR 4.9, 95% CI 2.8–8.7, p < 0.001). The association was strongest for cervical artery dissections (28% vs. 5%, OR 8.1, 95% CI 3.7–17.6, p < 0.001), followed by posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (17% vs. 3%, OR 7.1, 95% CI 2.7–18.4, p < 0.001), seizures (9% vs. 2.5%, OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.3–12.5, p = 0.019), and subarachnoid hemorrhage (41% vs. 16%, OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.9–6.3, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, the risk for any neurological complication remained significantly elevated in the absence of TCH (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.8–6.8, p < 0.001). The functional outcome was equal in both groups, with a modified Rankin scale score of 0–1 in ≥90% of patients.

Conclusions

Absence of TCH at onset might predict a higher risk of complications in RCVS. Our results warrant further multicentric studies to prove this finding.
A comparison of microsatellites and genome‐wide SNPs for the detection of admixture brings the first molecular evidence for hybridization between Mustela eversmanii and M. putorius (Mustelidae, Carnivora)
Authors: Szatmári Lajos , Cserkész Tamás , Laczkó Levente , Lanszki József , Pertoldi Cino , Abramov Alexei V. , Elmeros Morten , Ottlecz Barnabás , Hegyeli Zsolt , Sramkó Gábor
Published: August 2021

Introgressive hybridization can pose a serious threat to endangered species which have an overlapping distribution such as in the case of two polecat species, Mustela eversmanii and M. putorius, in Europe. The population size of steppe polecat is known to continuously shrink, whereas its sister species, the European polecat, is still somehow widespread. In this study, we perform an analysis using microsatellite (SSR) and genomic (SNP) data sets to identify natural hybrids between polecats. Four populations were genotyped for eight polymorphic SSR loci, and thousands of unlinked SNPs were generated using a reduced‐representation sequencing approach, RADseq, to characterize the genetic make‐up of allopatric populations and to identify hybrids in the sympatric area. We applied standard population genetic analyses to characterize the populations based on their SSR allelic frequency. Only a single sample out of 48 sympatric samples showed exact intermediacy that we identified as an F1 hybrid. Additionally, one specimen was indicated in the genomic data sets as backcrossed. Other backcrosses, indicated by SSRs, were not validated by SNPs, which highlights the higher efficacy of the genomic method to identify backcrossed individuals. The low frequency of hybridization suggests that the difference in habitat preference of the two species may act as a barrier to admixture. Therefore, it is apparently unlikely that polecat populations are threatened by significant introgression. The two species showed a clear genetic differentiation using both techniques. We found higher genetic diversity values in the sympatric steppe polecat population than in the other studies on polecat populations. Although M. putorius is a hunted species in most countries, genetic diversity values indicate worse conditions in Europe than in the protected sibling species M. eversmanii. Suspending hunting and providing protected status of the former seems to be reasonable and timely.
Marital satisfaction, parenting styles, and child outcomes in families of autistic children
Authors: Greenlee Jessica L. , Piro‐Gambetti Brianna , Putney Jennifer , Papp Lauren M. , Hartley Sigan L.
Published: August 2021

Theory and research on the general population suggest that parents’ marital relationship quality is associated with children’s emotional and behavioral functioning directly, as well as indirectly, by affecting parenting attitudes and behaviors. However, little has been done to investigate the potential connection among parent marital satisfaction, parenting styles, and outcomes for autistic children. Using longitudinal data collected from 188 couples parenting an autistic child, this study tested the time‐ordered indirect effect of parent marital satisfaction (assessed at Time 1) on the internalizing and externalizing symptoms (assessed at Time 3) of autistic children (originally aged 5–12 years) via parenting styles (assessed at Time 2) using actor–partner interdependence modeling extended to mediation. Results indicated that a lower level of marital satisfaction at Time 1 predicted impaired child outcomes at Time 3 via its impact on parenting style at Time 2. For both parents, lower marital satisfaction predicted more child externalizing symptoms via reports of more authoritarian parenting style. Lower marital satisfaction in mothers at Time 1 was also associated with higher levels of child internalizing symptoms at Time 3 via increased authoritarian parenting in mothers. No partner effects were found. A family‐wide approach that includes support for the parent marital relationship, which may have downstream effects on parenting, is important for promoting optimal emotional and behavioral health in autistic children.
Mulberry fruit extract alleviates the intracellular amyloid‐β oligomer‐induced cognitive disturbance and oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s disease model mice
Authors: Ochiishi Tomoyo , Kaku Masami , Kajsongkram Tanwarat , Thisayakorn Krittiya
Published: August 2021

Intracellular amyloid‐β (Aβ) oligomers are key therapeutic targets because they are strongly cytotoxic and play crucial roles in the cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Anthocyanins, polyphenolic flavonoids with antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, are potential therapeutic candidates for AD. Here, we investigated the effects of anthocyanin‐enriched extracts from fruits of mulberry (Morus alba Linn.) in Thailand against the neurotoxicity of Aβ oligomers. Using the monitoring system for Aβ aggregation, we showed that the extract induced the dissociation of Aβ in cultured HEK293T cells. To investigate the effects on cognitive function, we orally administered the extract to Aβ‐GFP transgenic mice (Aβ‐GFP Tg), a mouse model that expresses Aβ oligomers inside neurons, and performed the novel object recognition test and passive avoidance test. Aβ‐GFP Tg usually showed deficits in novel object recognition memory and reference memory compared with non‐Tg, but administration of the extract improved both compared with vehicle‐treated Aβ‐GFP Tg. Aβ‐GFP Tg exhibited lower superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity than non‐Tg. However, after the administration of the extract, the SOD activity was restored. These results suggest that Thai mulberry fruit extract ameliorates cytotoxicity induced by the intracellular Aβ oligomers and may be an effective therapeutic or preventive candidate for AD.
Fallows and permanent grasslands conserve the species composition and functional diversity of carabid beetles and linyphiid spiders in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Feng Lanya , Arvidsson Fredrik , Smith Henrik G. , Birkhofer Klaus
Published: August 2021

The European Union reformed the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP 2013) to include greening measures with the aim to decrease negative impacts of farming on the environment and biodiversity. The degree to which greening measures such as permanent grassland or fallows of different ages enhance biodiversity is still debated.

We investigate the effect of fallows in two different age classes and permanent grassland in the surrounding landscape on the taxonomic and functional diversity of two numerically dominant groups of natural enemies in cereal fields: soil‐emerging carabid beetles (Family Carabidae, Order Coleoptera) and ground‐active linyphiid spiders (Family Linyphiidae, Order Araneae).

The species richness, abundance and Hill–Shannon diversity of carabids and linyphiids did not differ significantly between fallows and cereal fields and was not significantly related to the proportion of permanent grassland in the surrounding landscape. The species composition of both communities differed significantly between cereal fields and fallows. The functional distinctness, as an index reflecting the similarity among species in terms of functional traits, of linyphiids was significantly higher in fallows than in cereal fields. The trait composition of carabids was significantly related to the proportion of permanent grassland depending on field type (cereal or fallow). Our results document considerable species turnover in natural enemy communities of adjacent cereal fields and fallows, and support the assumption that older fallows (>8 years) produce functionally more diverse natural enemy communities. Maintaining fallows for a long period is an important measure to promote the functional diversity in predaceous arthropod communities.
Non‐linear relationship between remittances and financial development in Jamaica
Authors: Das Anupam , McFarlane Adian
Published: August 2021

We examine the relationship between financial development and remittance inflows (remittances), measured as a share of GDP, within a non‐linear framework in Jamaica over the period 1980 to 2017. By applying the autoregressive distributed lag bound testing approach to cointegration, we arrive at two key results. First, there is a long‐run cointegrating relationship running from remittances to financial development. Second, remittances and financial development are non‐linearly related. Financial development is a U‐shaped function of remittances. As remittances increase, they first have a negative impact on financial development. However, after remittances reach a threshold point, their impact on financial development is positive. Taken together, the results indicate that remittances first substitute for and then complement financial development. We provide important policy suggestions such as those that would increase remittances and those that would incentivize remittance receiving households to use these inflows in the formal financial sector.
Patterns of objectively measured motor activity among infants developing ASD and concerns for ADHD
Authors: Reetzke Rachel , Iosif Ana‐Maria , Hatch Burt , de la Paz Leiana , Chuang Annie , Ozonoff Sally , Miller Meghan
Published: August 2021

Background

Heightened motor activity is a hallmark of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), yet high activity levels are also often reported in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is currently unclear whether increased motor activity represents a distinct versus shared early predictor of ASD and ADHD; no prior studies have directly examined this prospectively. We investigated differences in longitudinal patterns of objectively measured motor activity during early development.

Methods

Participants included 113 infants at high and low risk for ASD or ADHD. Continuous motion‐based activity was recorded using tri‐axial accelerometers at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months of age. At 36 months, participants were categorized into one of three outcome groups: ASD (n = 19), ADHD Concerns (n = 17), and Typically Developing (TD; n = 77). Group differences in trajectories of motor activity were examined in structured and semistructured contexts. Associations with behaviors relevant to ASD, ADHD, and general development were also examined.

Results

In both structured and semistructured contexts, both the ASD and ADHD Concerns groups exhibited heightened activity relative to the TD group by 18 months; the ASD group exhibited higher activity than the ADHD Concerns group at 24–36 months in the structured context only. Attention/behavior regulation, nonverbal, and verbal development—but not social engagement—were differentially associated with objectively measured activity by outcome group across contexts.

Conclusions

Overactivity may be a shared, rather than distinct, precursor of atypical development in infants/toddlers developing ASD and concerns for ADHD, emerging as early as 18 months. Group differences in overactivity may be context‐specific and associated with different underlying mechanisms.
Effect of thickness, cement shade, and coffee thermocycling on the optical properties of zirconia reinforced lithium silicate ceramic
Authors: Çakmak Gülce , Donmez Mustafa Borga , Kashkari Afnan , Johnston William M. , Yilmaz Burak
Published: August 2021

Objective

To investigate the effect of thickness, cement shade, and coffee thermocycling (CTC) on the optical properties of zirconia reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) paired with different shades of a resin cement.

Materials and Methods

Thirty ZLS specimens were prepared in two different thicknesses (0.8 and 1.5 mm) and three different resin cement shades (Tr, A2, and A3) were applied (n = 5). Color determinations were done before and after 5000 CTC by using a noncontact spectroradiometer. Color change due to CTC and relative translucency parameter (RTP) before and after CTC were calculated by using CIEDE2000. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Bonferroni‐corrected t‐tests(α = 0.05).

Results

Material thickness and resin cement shade (P < 0.001) affected baseline color. Material thickness affected color difference (P = 0.025). Thickness, resin cement shade, and CTC (P ≤ 0.0001) affected RTP. The difference between the color changes of the 0.8‐ and 1.5‐mm specimens combined with A2 shade cement after CTC was significant (P = 0.01). RTPs of all pairs decreased after CTC (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Cement shade and material thickness affected the baseline color. The thickness of ZLS affected the color change after CTC only with A2 resin cement and the color change was less when the ZLS was thicker. CTC reduced the translucency of all pairs.

Clinical Significance

Clinicians and patients should be aware of a potential color change after long‐term coffee consumption when zirconia reinforced lithium silicate is used particularly for laminate veneers with A2 shade of the tested resin cement.
The information needs of patients with atrial fibrillation: A scoping review
Authors: Woo Brigitte F. Y. , Bulto Lemma N. , Hendriks Jeroen M. L. , Lim Toon Wei , Tam Wilson W. S.
Published: August 2021

Aims and objectives

To identify the atrial fibrillation (AF)‐specific information needs of patients with AF.

Background

Patients’ understanding of AF is pertinent to optimising treatment and outcomes, thus highlighting the need for effective patient education. The information required to deliver effective AF‐specific patient education is less examined.

Methods

Guided by Arksey and O’Malley's framework, a scoping review was conducted for studies reporting the AF‐specific information needs of patients with AF. Systematic searches were conducted across six databases (Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, PsycINFO and ProQuest). All analyses were narrated in prose and outlined in tables. The PRISMA‐ScR checklist was used to report this review.

Results

The systematic search yielded 3816 articles, of which 22 were included. Three major themes emerged from the thematic analysis. Each theme was supported by three subthemes. First, in ‘Understanding AF’, patients reported the need for ‘Easy‐to‐understand information’, information on the ‘Screening and diagnosis’ of AF and ‘Trajectory of disease and its associated risks’. Second, in ‘Treating AF’, patients required information on the ‘Role of anticoagulation’, ‘Existing or novel therapeutic options’ and ‘Monitoring effectiveness of treatment’. Lastly, in ‘Living with AF’, patients needed education in ‘Symptom management’, ‘Secondary prevention of risks’ and ‘Recognition of emergency situations’.

Conclusions

This review has identified the key AF‐specific information needs of patients with AF. Being cognisant of the information needs of patients with AF, healthcare providers may become more effective in developing person‐centred patient education interventions.

Relevance to clinical practice

Delivering relevant patient education is an important cornerstone for atrial fibrillation care. Nurses by convention play a professional role in patient education. It may be facilitative for nurses to refer to the review findings when developing and implementing patient education interventions. Being in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, patient education strategies may require the use of telecommunication technologies.
Arterial spin labeling compared to dynamic susceptibility contrast MR perfusion imaging for assessment of ischemic penumbra: A systematic review
Authors: Liu Jinyuan , Lin Christopher , Minuti Aurelia , Lipton Michael
Published: August 2021

Background and Purpose

Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MR imaging is commonly used to estimate penumbra size in acute ischemic stroke; this technique relies on the administration of gadolinium contrast, which has limited use in certain populations, such as those with impaired renal function or allergies. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a relatively new technique that can provide information on cerebral perfusion without need for exogenous contrast agents. This systematic review examines published studies that specifically compared ASL to DSC for assessment of ischemic penumbra.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for papers which compared ASL with DSC for assessment of ischemic penumbra in acute ischemic stroke among adult human populations. Two independent reviewers screened studies using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Study characteristics and findings regarding the utility of ASL compared to DSC for identification of penumbra were then extracted and anlyzed for results and risk of bias.

Results

Seventeen articles met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies compared ASL with DSC on a range of metrics (hypoperfusion, hyperperfusion, mismatch, and reperfusion). Most studies concluded that agreement of ASL with DSC was moderate to very high. A small subset of studies found discrepancy in agreement of ASL with DSC for size or location of perfusion abnormalities. A heterogeneity of perfusion parameters studied for DSC was noted, along with the need for more standardization of research methods.

Conclusion

ASL shows moderate to high agreement with DSC for detection of penumbra among ischemic stroke patients.
Cognitive ability is a powerful predictor of political tolerance
Authors: Rasmussen Stig Hebbelstrup Rye , Ludeke Steven
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Despite the broad appeal of abstract notions of political tolerance, people vary in the degree to which they support the political rights of groups they dislike. Prior research highlighted the relevance of individual differences in the cognitive domain, claiming the application of general tolerance ideals to specific situations is a cognitively demanding task. Curiously, this work has overwhelmingly focused on differences in cognitive style, largely neglecting differences in cognitive ability, despite compelling conceptual linkages. We remedy this shortcoming.

Methods

We explore diverse predictors of tolerance using survey data in two large samples from Denmark (N = 805) and the United States (N = 1,603).

Results

Cognitive ability was the single strongest predictor of political tolerance, with larger effects than education, openness to experience, ideology, and threat. The cognitively demanding nature of tolerance judgments was further supported by results showing cognitive ability predicted tolerance best when extending such tolerance was hardest. Additional small‐sample panel results demonstrated substantial 4‐year stability of political tolerance, informing future work on the origins of political tolerance.

Conclusions

Our observation of a potent role for cognitive ability in tolerance supports cognitively oriented accounts of tolerance judgments and highlights the need for further exploration of cognitive ability within the political domain.
Retrospective evaluation of a dose‐dependent effect of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors on long‐term outcome in dogs with cardiac disease
Authors: Ward Jessica L. , Chou Yen‐Yu , Yuan Lingnan , Dorman Karin S. , Mochel Jonathan P.
Published: August 2021

Background

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are commonly prescribed in dogs, but the ideal dosage is unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

In dogs with cardiac disease, a dose‐response relationship exists for ACEIs with respect to long‐term outcome.

Animals

One hundred forty‐four dogs with cardiac disease, 63 with current or prior congestive heart failure.

Methods

Retrospective medical record review. Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine variables associated with 2‐year survival or survival from first‐onset congestive heart failure (CHF).

Results

Median initial ACEI dosage was 0.84 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.56‐0.98) mg/kg/day, and 108/144 (75%) of dogs received q12h dosing. No clinically relevant changes in renal function test results, serum electrolyte concentrations, or blood pressure occurred between initial prescription of ACEI and first reevaluation (median, 14 days later). In univariable analysis, higher ACEI dose was associated with increased survival from first‐onset CHF (P = .005), and within the subgroup of dogs in CHF at the time of ACEI prescription, higher ACEI dose was associated with improved survival at 2 years (P = .04). In multivariable analysis, q12h dose frequency of ACEI (hazard ratio [HR], 0.30; 95% CI, 0.10‐0.88;P = .03) and higher serum potassium concentration at visit 1 (HR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.16‐0.97;P = .04) were predictive of 2‐year survival. The ACEIs were well‐tolerated, with only 8/144 (5.6%) dogs having ACEI dose decreased or discontinued because of adverse effects.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Twice daily dose frequency might optimize the cardioprotective benefit of ACEIs.
Co‐formulation of ketoprofen with tulathromycin alters pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of ketoprofen in cattle
Authors: De Koster Jenne , Boucher Joseph F. , Tena Jezaniah‐Kira , Gehring Ronette , Stegemann Michael R.
Published: August 2021

The current studies aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) profile and to establish a PK‐PD model for ketoprofen in a new fixed combination product containing tulathromycin (2.5 mg/kg) and ketoprofen (3 mg/kg) to treat bovine respiratory disease associated with pyrexia in cattle. Firstly, the effect of different ketoprofen doses as mono‐substance (1, 3, and 6 mg/kg subcutaneous) on lipopolysaccharide‐induced fever was evaluated which indicated that rectal temperature reduction lasted longer in the calves receiving 3 and 6 mg/kg ketoprofen. Secondly, the PK profile of the combination product was compared with mono‐substance products (3 mg/kg subcutaneous and intramuscular). The PK profile of ketoprofen in the combination product was characterized by longert1/2, lowerCmaxand increased AUC in comparison with mono‐substance products. Due to prolonged ketoprofen exposure in the combination product, the pyrexia reducing effect of the combination product lasted longer in a second lipopolysaccharide challenge study in comparison with mono‐substance products. Finally, a PK‐PD model for the anti‐pyretic effect of ketoprofen was developed based on the data from the different studies. The PK‐PD model eliminated the need for additional animal experiments and indicated that a 3 mg/kg ketoprofen dose in the combination product provided optimal efficacy.
Net neutrality and content provision
Authors: Garcia Pires Armando J.
Published: August 2021

We compare content provision in the media Internet market under net neutrality and no net neutrality. We show that content provision in the two regimes depends on the one hand on the level of content differentiation, and on the other hand on the relation between network capacity and network traffic. If content is not very differentiated, the net neutrality regime provides more content than the no net neutrality regime. In addition, in the no net neutrality regime, a monopolist can arise. If content is sufficiently differentiated, but network capacity is not large relatively to network traffic, the net neutrality regime again provides more content than the no net neutrality regime. The reason is that when network capacity is small relative to network traffic, the no net neutrality regime reduces competition. This is so since the Content Provider with priority has an advantage over the Content Provider with no priority, which allows the former to attract consumers even without investing in content, while for the latter investment in content becomes ineffective to attract demand.
Capabilities and limitations of using DNA metabarcoding to study plant–pollinator interactions
Authors: Arstingstall Katherine A. , DeBano Sandra J. , Li Xiaoping , Wooster David E. , Rowland Mary M. , Burrows Skyler , Frost Kenneth
Published: August 2021

Many pollinator populations are experiencing declines, emphasizing the need for a better understanding of the complex relationship between bees and flowering plants. Using DNA metabarcoding to describe plant–pollinator interactions eliminates many challenges associated with traditional methods and has the potential to reveal a more comprehensive understanding of foraging behaviour and pollinator life history. Here we use DNA metabarcoding of ITS2 and rbcL gene regions to identify plant species present in pollen loads of 404 bees from three habitats in eastern Oregon. Our specific objectives were to (i) determine whether plant species identified using DNA metabarcoding are consistent with plant species identified using observations, (ii) compare characterizations of diet breadth derived from foraging observations to those based on plant species assignments obtained using DNA metabarcoding, and (iii) compare plant species assignments produced by DNA metabarcoding using a “regional” reference database to those produced using a “local” database. At the three locations, 31%–86% of foraging observations were consistent with DNA metabarcoding data, 8%–50% of diet breadth characterizations based on observations differed from those based on DNA metabarcoding data, and 22%–25% of plant species detected using the regional database were not known to occur in the study area in question. Plant–pollinator networks produced from DNA metabarcoding data had higher sampling completeness and significantly lower specialization than networks based on observations. Here, we examine some strengths and limitations of using DNA metabarcoding to identify plant species present in bee pollen loads, make ecological inferences about foraging behaviour and provide guidance for future research.
Bacterial approaches to sensing and responding to respiration and respiration metabolites
Authors: Price Erin E. , Román‐Rodríguez Franklin , Boyd Jeffrey M.
Published: August 2021

Bacterial respiration of diverse substrates is a primary contributor to the diversity of life. Respiration also drives alterations in the geosphere and tethers ecological nodes together. It provides organisms with a means to dissipate reductants and generate potential energy in the form of an electrochemical gradient. Mechanisms have evolved to sense flux through respiratory pathways and sense the altered concentrations of respiration substrates or byproducts. These genetic regulatory systems promote efficient utilization of respiration substrates, as well as fine‐tune metabolism to promote cellular fitness and negate the accumulation of toxic byproducts. Many bacteria can respire one or more chemicals, and these regulatory systems promote the prioritization of high‐energy metabolites. Herein, we focus on regulatory paradigms and discuss systems that sense the concentrations of respiration substrates and flux through respiratory pathways. This is a broad field of study, and therefore we focus on key fundamental and recent developments and highlight specific systems that capture the diversity of sensing mechanisms.
Novel gain‐of‐function mutation ofTRPC6Q134Pcontributes to late onset focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in a Chinese pedigree
Authors: Liu Zhiying , Zhang Haiyan , Zhao Shipeng , Zhang Qian , Zhang Ruixiao , Han Yue , Shao Leping , Zhao Xiangzhong
Published: August 2021

Background

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS, OMIM®#603 965) is an overriding cause that leads to end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). As a member of TRP superfamily, mutations ofTRPC6gene are closely linked to FSGS. By now, 20 missense mutations have been reported, among them, nine gain‐of‐function (GOF), and five loss‐of‐function (LOF) mutations have been recognized according to the effect on TRPC6 channel activity. Systematic investigations of functional mutations will provide valuable evidences for understanding the pathophysiology of TRPC6 involved in FSGS. The aim of this study is to investigate the pathogenicity of a novel TRPC6 mutation p.Q134P in FSGS.

Methods

High‐throughput sequencing was performed to analyse 436 genes which are associated with hereditary kidney diseases in a Chinese pedigree. Then we constructed TRPC6 expression plasmids of wide type and variant. Immunofluorescence, cell‐surface biotinylation assays and electrophysiology were used to analyse the localization, cell surface expression, and calcium transport activity of TRPC6.

Results

A novel variant c.401A>C (p.Q134P) in exon 2 ofTRPC6gene was found. There was no significant difference between the expression levels of p.Q134P mutant and WT TRPC6 protein in the whole cell lysate and cell‐surface fraction. Q134P mutant‐bearing TRPC6 elicited much higher Ca+current amplitude than WT.

Conclusion

We identified a novel GOF mutation p.Q134P ofTRPC6which contributed to late‐onset FSGS. Our study expands the mutational spectrum ofTRPC6associated with FSGS and furtherly supports the hypothesis of calcium dose–response dependency that a moderate increased calcium influx elicited a mild FSGS phenotype.
The effectiveness of weight‐loss lifestyle interventions for improving fertility in women and men with overweight or obesity and infertility: A systematic review update of evidence from randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hunter Emma , Avenell Alison , Maheshwari Abha , Stadler Gertraud , Best Damian
Published: August 2021

Being overweight or obese can have a negative impact on fertility outcomes. This systematic review updates randomized controlled trial (RCT) findings on the effectiveness of weight loss interventions in reducing weight and improving reproductive outcomes of women and men with overweight or obesity and infertility. Eligible studies, published since the last review, were identified by searching databases from March 20, 2016 until March 31, 2020. RCTs involving any type of lifestyle intervention were considered. Eight RCTs were identified and aggregated with seven RCTs included in our previous review. Meta‐analyses revealed that women randomized to a combined diet and exercise intervention were more likely to become pregnant, risk ratio (RR) = 1.87 (95% CI 1.20, 2.93) and achieve a live birth RR = 2.20 (95% CI 1.23, 3.94), compared to women in control groups who received no or minimal intervention. This pattern was not replicated in trials where control groups received immediate access to assisted reproductive technology (ART). No eligible randomized trials involving men were identified. Data were largely obtained from small scale studies. Better designed, adequately powered, robust randomized trials are needed to better understand the effect of weight loss interventions on reproductive outcomes in both women and men.
Bearing fixing: A new computer algorithm method for subjective determination of astigmatism
Authors: Carkeet Andrew , Ng Jia Hao , Choo Jia Sheng
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This article aims to illustrate the principles of bearing fixing, a new computer‐controlled procedure for subjective determination of astigmatism, and to compare it with conventional clinician‐controlled Jackson crossed‐cylinder refraction.

Methods

The principles and method for bearing fixing are described. Astigmatism was measured using bearing fixing and Jackson cross‐cylinder twice on 20 visually normal participants aged between 18 and 34 years. After final sphere adjustment, acuity measurements were made with each refraction estimate.

Results

Bearing fixing results could be obtained for all participants. Mean bearing fixing cylinder magnitude was slightly higher than Jackson cross‐cylinder measures of cylinder magnitude, by 0.05D. Using vector analysis to take into account cylinder power and axis, mean bearing fixing astigmatism was not significantly different from cross‐cylinder astigmatism, but did have higher test‐retest variability (p < 0.05). Acuity with bearing fixing and cross‐cylinder corrections did not significantly differ in average value or repeatability.

Conclusions

Bearing fixing is a feasible method for subjective determination of astigmatism, and there are a number of potential improvements to the method which could make it faster and more precise.
Ulcerated amelanotic melanoma of the ear in an 11 year old with Fitzpatrick VI skin type: A case report
Authors: Roberts Matthew , Moxham J. Paul , Gregory Allison , Armstrong Linlea , Terry Jefferson , Courtemanche Douglas , Harvey Melissa , Rehmus Wingfield
Published: August 2021

Melanoma is rare in pediatric patients and even more so in those with darker Fitzpatrick skin types. Although risk factors for conventional melanoma are similar in both adult and pediatric cases, the presentation of melanoma in pediatric patients is often distinct from adults. Here, we describe a case of amelanotic ulcerated nodular melanoma with regional lymph node metastases treated with nivolumab in a patient with Fitzpatrick skin type VI.
Effective, sustainable, and transferable physical exercise interventions for fall prevention among older people
Authors: Campani Daiana , Caristia Silvia , Amariglio Alex , Piscone Silvia , Ferrara Lidya Irene , Bortoluzzi Sara , Faggiano Fabrizio , Dal Molin Alberto ,   IPEST Working Group
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Falls among older people are preventable through exercise‐based programs. However, scientific evidence must be translated into practice to support professionals who implement such programs.

Aim

This study aimed to identify physical exercise interventions for fall prevention and to determine the best practice for implementing them in local community‐dwelling older adults.

Method

We used a narrative synthesis method to produce Effective, Sustainable, and Transferable Preventive Interventions. We reviewed guidelines, systematic reviews, and randomized controlled trials (RCT) to find the best evidence supporting physical exercises to prevent falls, followed by discussing the evidence with clinical experts to evaluate the best strategy for implementing them into the local context. These steps resulted in the development of a user manual.

Results

We included two guidelines, one systematic review with a meta‐analysis, and one RCT. The developed draft manual includes activities, methods, infrastructural resources, human capital, stakeholders, frequency, and duration of the intervention, information, and educational materials, and implementation models. Our discussion of the intervention with a panel of experts considered resources, barriers, and similar experiences to ensure effectiveness and economic, social, and time sustainability.

Conclusion

The developed manual could be implemented in the local context and adapted to the needs of the population while considering available resources.
PpSnRK1α overexpression alters the response to light and affects photosynthesis and carbon metabolism in tomato
Authors: Liang Jiahui , Zhang Shuhui , Yu Wenying , Wu Xuelian , Wang Wenru , Peng Futian , Xiao Yuansong
Published: August 2021

Sucrose nonfermentation 1 (SNF1) related kinase 1 (SnRK1) is a central energy sensor kinase in plants and a key switch regulating carbon and nitrogen metabolism. Fruit quality depends on leaf photosynthetic efficiency and carbohydrate accumulation, but the role of peach (Prunus persica) SnRK1 α subunit (PpSnRK1α) in regulating leaf carbon metabolism and the light signal response remains unclear. We studied the carbon metabolism of tomato leaves overexpressing PpSnRK1α and the responses of PpSnRK1α‐overexpressing tomato leaves to light signals. Transcriptome, metabolome, and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed that uridine 5′‐diphosphoglucose, glutamate, and glucose‐6‐phosphate accumulated in tomato leaves overexpressing PpSnRK1α. The expression of genes (e.g., GDH2, SuSy) encoding enzymes related to carbon metabolism (e.g., glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH2; EC: 1.4.1.3), sucrose synthase (SS; EC: 2.4.1.13)) and chlorophyllase (CLH) encoding chlorophyllase (EC: 3.1.1.14), which regulates photosynthetic pigments and photosynthesis, was significantly increased in PpSnRK1α‐overexpressing plants. PpSnRK1α overexpression inhibited the growth of hypocotyls and primary roots in response to light. The chlorophyll content of the leaves was increased, the activity of SS and ADPG pyrophosphatase (AGPase; EC: 2.7.7.27) was increased, and photosynthesis was promoted in PpSnRK1α‐overexpressing plants relative to wild‐type plants. Under light stress, the net photosynthetic rate of plants was significantly higher in plants overexpressing PpSnRK1α than in wild‐type plants. This indicates that PpSnRK1α promotes the accumulation of carbohydrates by regulating genes related to carbon metabolism, regulating genes related to chlorophyll synthesis, and then responding to light signals to increase the net photosynthetic rate of leaves.
Local habitat characteristics influence abundance and community structure of rodents in a regenerating Lulanda reserved forest, southern Tanzania
Authors: Mwasapi Burton S. , Rija Alfan A.
Published: August 2021

Restoration of degraded natural areas to enhance species conservation is widely gaining pace; however, effort assessing restoration impact on the animal community particularly in restored African forests is still rare. We used a capture‐mark‐recapture method to trap rodents and to assess effect of restoration and ecological covariates on the rodent abundance and community structure in Lulanda Forest Reserve, southern Tanzania, 20 years after restoration. We found five species in the restored corridor and three in the natural fragments, withGrammomys dolichurusthe most abundant in the former andPraomys delectorumin the latter forest type. Species diversity was highest in the restored corridor and lowest in the natural forest, supporting earlier studies in this forest reserve. Further, the rodent communities were broadly similar by >55% between studied sites but showed strong association with local habitat characteristics in the restored corridor, suggesting the importance of restoration on reassembling the small‐mammal communities. Our regression models revealed number of saplings and shrub cover were the strongest predictors of the rodent abundance across the study sites. Despite the rodent colonization of the secondary forest, we found most measured biophysical properties significantly lower in the restored corridor, suggesting that the secondary forest is still far from attaining conditions of the old‐growth natural fragment at its second decade of succession. Future monitoring to see how other animal taxa recolonize these forests will increase our knowledge on how the animal communities assemble in the restored habitats following disturbance threats.
Themulti‐agenciesdilemma of delegation: Why do policymakers choose one or multiple agencies for financial regulation?
Authors: Moschella Manuela , Pinto Luca
Published: August 2021

The article asks the following question: Why do policymakers choose one (or more) agent(s) to perform new delegated policy functions? In order to shed light on the factors that drive policymakers' choice of a single or a multiple agencies delegation framework, the article investigates policymakers' choice to delegate macroprudential regulatory responsibility to either the central bank or to a committee made up of more than one financial regulator. Based on the analysis of an original dataset in 53 countries, we show that the choice among alternative delegation frameworks is driven by the logic of “policy control”: policymakers, who want to control policies with distributive consequences, choose the single agency model under conditions of political uncertainty and low agency independence.