bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A typology of empathy and its many moral forms
Authors: Read Hannah
Published: August 2019

Debates about empathy's role in morality are notoriously complex. On the one hand, proponents of empathy argue that it plays a crucial role in the process of making moral judgments, moral motivation, moral development, and the cultivation of meaningful personal relationships. On the other hand, critics of empathy warn that it is especially susceptible to a number of morally troubling biases and motivational shortcomings. Yet there is little consensus about what empathy is or what it might be good for from a moral point of view. As a result, critics and proponents of empathy alike often wind up talking past each other and debates about empathy's role in morality reach an impasse. This paper proposes a typology of empathy's affective, cognitive, and motivational dimensions and the different forms that empathy can take depending on the nature and degree of prominence of these. It argues that different forms of empathy are well equipped to handle some moral tasks as well as ill‐equipped to handle others. Its aim in doing so is to clarify an otherwise conceptually thorny set of debates and to amplify future research on empathy and its role in the moral life.
Analysis of caecal mucosal inflammation and immune modulation during Anoplocephala perfoliata infection of horses
Authors: Lawson April L. , Pittaway Charles E. , Sparrow Richard M. , Balkwill Emily C. , Coles Gerald C. , Tilley Alice , Wilson A. Douglas
Published: August 2019

Anoplocephala perfoliata is the commonest equine tapeworm, the adult parasites are attached in groups close to the ileocaecal valve causing marked inflammatory pathology. This work aimed to characterize the nature of the in vivo mucosal immune response to A perfoliata, and to investigate the role of A perfoliata excretory‐secretory components in modulating in vitro immune responses. Real‐time PCR detected elevation of IL13 and TGFβ transcription in early‐stage A perfoliata infection. In late‐stage infection, IL‐13, IL4 and Ifn transcripts were reduced while the regulatory cytokines, TGFβ, IL10 and the transcription factor FOXP3 were increased in tissue close to the site of A perfoliata attachment; indicating downregulation of T‐cell responses to A perfoliata. In vitro, A perfoliata excretory‐secretory products induced apoptosis of the Jurkat T‐cell line and premature cell death of ConA stimulated equine peripheral blood leucocytes. Analysis of cytokine transcription patterns in the leucocyte cultures showed a marked inhibition of IL‐1 and IL‐2 suggesting that a lack of T‐cell growth factor transcription underlies the mechanism of the induced equine T‐cell death. These preliminary findings suggest A perfoliata may have the ability to down‐regulate host T‐cell responses.
Development of a fluorescent computer‐assisted spermatozoal quantification method and a comparison of results for manual counting with a haemocytometer and computer‐assisted semen analysis in dogs
Authors: Watts John
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a novel, computer‐assisted spermatozoal quantification (CASQ) method of determining spermatozoal concentration in canine semen. In Experiment A, the spermatozoal concentration was measured (n = 28) with a haemocytometer using light microscopy, CASQ and computer‐assisted semen analysis (CASA; MMC sperm), following three independent dilutions. The limits of agreement between the haemocytometer and CASQ were −13.1% to 13.8% and −27.0% to 28.6% between the haemocytometer and CASA. The precision CVs (limits of agreement) were 5.7% (−7.8% to 8.9%) for the haemocytometer, 6.2% (−8.8% to 12.3%) for CASQ and 10.8% (−16.0% to 19.5%) for CASA. In Experiment B, spermatozoa were manually counted (n = 42) with the haemocytometer under fluorescent illumination using the CASQ sample. The limits of agreement between the CASQ and the haemocytometer were satisfactory (−4.6% to 4.6%) and the precision CVs (limits of agreement) were 6.2% (−9.0% to 11.4%) for the haemocytometer and 4.4% (−5.8% to 8.6%) for CASQ. The CASQ method was then clinically applied to compare the haemocytometer (light and fluorescent methods) with CASQ and CASA. Outlying data were removed. These studies demonstrated that CASQ was reliable and that the MMC sperm CASA was unreliable as methods for determining spermatozoal concentration in canine semen. Computer‐assisted spermatozoal quantification was also determined to be more precise than manual counting with the haemocytometer. Using the clinical protocol, the agreement between the haemocytometer and CASQ method was acceptable, but it was worse than in the experiments where duplicate samples and a larger volume of semen were analysed. The CASQ method may be a useful method to measure the membrane status of canine spermatozoa; however, further investigation is required. Counting spermatozoa using fluorescent microscopy and the haemocytometer may improve the efficiency of counting and the accuracy of the method.
BPAP for CPAP failures: For the many or the few
Authors: Omobomi Olabimpe , Quan Stuart F.
Published: August 2019

See related Article
Non-Parametric Cure Rate Estimation Under Insufficient Follow-Up by Using Extremes
Authors: Escobar-Bach Mikael , Keilegom Ingrid Van
Published: August 2019

An important research topic in survival analysis is related to the modelling and estimation of the cure rate, i.e. the proportion of subjects who will never experience the event of interest. However, most estimation methods proposed so far in the literature do not handle the case of insufficient follow-up, i.e. when the right end point of the support of the censoring time is strictly less than that of the survival time of the susceptible subjects, and consequently these estimators overestimate the cure rate in that case. We fill this gap by proposing a new estimator of the cure rate that makes use of extrapolation techniques from the area of extreme value theory. We establish the asymptotic normality of the estimator proposed and show how the estimator works for small samples by means of a simulation study. We also illustrate its practical applicability through the analysis of data on the survival of breast cancer patients.
Compensation or competition: Bias in immigrants' access to active labour market measures
Authors: Auer Daniel , Fossati Flavia
Published: August 2019

Whether participation in active labour market programmes (ALMPs) pushes individuals back into employment depends on the programme's characteristics. On the basis of encompassing registry data that allow us to control for usually unobserved employability, we find evidence of a systematic access bias whereby jobcentre caseworkers in Switzerland assign unemployed persons to activation measures based on a competition logic that is mainly driven by an economic rationale and the jobcentre's performance evaluation. This practice seems problematic because it results in an overrepresentation of immigrants in measures with little efficacy rather than in measures that could compensate for employability disadvantages. Conversely, Swiss citizens are more likely to enter beneficial human‐capital‐intensive measures. It is plausible that this discrepancy in programme participation amplifies the general labour market disadvantages of immigrants.
Dating, Marriage, and Parental Approval: An Examination of Young Adults in China
Authors: Blair Sampson Lee , Madigan Timothy J.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Within Chinese culture, filial piety has long been a central aspect of families and family life, stipulating that children are obligated to their families, and adherence to parental authority is absolutely expected. Given the extent of societal change in China, it is important to assess the relative influence of filial piety upon young adults.

Method

Using a sample of young adult women and men, survey responses were analyzed to examine how willing daughters and sons are to date or marry someone without parental approval.

Results

Males were shown to be significantly more willing to go against parental approval compared to females. Familial characteristics were more likely to influence males' willingness to date without parental approval, while females were strongly influenced by their individual characteristics, and particularly those related to the qualities they desired in a partner.

Conclusions

Although a significant portion of young adults stated their willingness to comply with their parents’ wishes, a large portion did not. Cultural and economic factors may be affecting adherence to filial piety. The results are discussed within the developmental paradigm.
Using next‐generation sequencing for characterising HLA‐DRB1 and DQB1 loci in a cohort of Colombian women
Authors: Del Río‐Ospina Luisa , Camargo Milena , Soto‐De León Sara C. , Robayo‐Calderón Karen L. , Garzón‐Ospina Diego , Patarroyo Manuel E. , Patarroyo Manuel A.
Published: August 2019

The Colombian population is characterised by a high genetic diversity, secondary to the ethnic mixture arising from colonisation. Unfortunately, few reports are available regarding HLA‐DRB1 and DQB1 diversity in Colombia to date. HLA‐DRB1 and DQB1 diversity was identified in this study using next‐generating sequencing (NGS) on a cohort of Colombian women. Cervical samples taken from 276 women were used for typing DRB1 and DQB1 loci by Illumina MiSeq. Allele and haplotype frequencies were calculated using an expectation‐maximisation algorithm. Hardy‐Weinberg Equilibrium and linkage disequilibrium (LD) between loci were evaluated. Forty‐seven DRB1 alleles and 14 DQB1 alleles were identified. DRB1*04:07:01G and DQB1*03:02:01G alleles occurred most frequently in the target population. Significant LD was found in 44 out of the 144 identified haplotypes, within which DRB1*04:07:01G‐DQB1*03:02:01G occurred most frequently (6.56%). The alleles and haplotypes found with NGS agreed with that found in previous reports involving lower resolution for the Colombian population, and greater genetic variability was found, especially concerning DRB1. Comparing allele and haplotype frequency distribution in the target population to that of other populations denoted HLA system intra‐ and inter‐population diversity.
Characterization of the first HLA‐DQA1*01:05:01 variant, DQA1*01:05:01:02, found in a Brazilian individual
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle , Santos Angela , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: August 2019

Characterization of the first HLA‐DQA1*01:05:01 variant, called HLA‐DQA1*01:05:01:02.
Seroprevalence of spotted fever group rickettsiae in canines along the United States–Mexico border
Authors: Pieracci Emily G. , De La Rosa Juan Diego Perez , Rubio Daniel Luna , Perales Mario Eduardo Solis , Contreras Manuel Velasco , Drexler Naomi A. , Nicholson William L. , De La Rosa José Javier Pérez , Chung Ida H. , Kato Cecilia , Barton Behravesh Casey , Enríquez María Alejandra Gay , Roldan Jesús Felipe González , Villarino Margarita E.
Published: August 2019

Portions of northern Mexico are experiencing a re‐emergence of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), a tickborne disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, a member of the spotted fever group of rickettsiae (SFGR). Infection with R. rickettsii can result in serious and life‐threatening illness in people and dogs. Canine seroprevalence has been used as a sentinel for human RMSF in previous studies. This study aims to quantify SFGR seroprevalence in canines in three northern Mexican states and identify risk factors associated with seropositivity. A total of 1,136 serum samples and 942 ticks were obtained from dogs participating in government sterilization campaigns and from animal control facilities in 14 Mexican cities in three states. SFGR antibodies were detected using indirect immunofluorescence antibody assays at titre values ≥1/64. Six per cent (69 dogs) showed antibodies to SFGR, with the highest seroprevalence reported in Baja California (12%), Coahuila (4%) and Sonora (4%). Dogs from Baja California had three times higher odds of having SFGR antibodies compared to dogs from Sonora (OR = 3.38, 95% CI, 1.81–6.37). Roughly one quarter (25%) of surveyed dogs were parasitized by ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato) at the time of sample collection. A portion of collected ticks were tested for rickettsial DNA using polymerase chain reaction. Positive samples were then sequenced, showing evidence of SFGR including R. massiliae, R. parkeri and R. rickettsii. Dogs that spent the majority of time on the street, such as free‐roaming or community‐owned dogs, showed a greater risk of tick infestation, seropositivity, bearing seropositive ticks, and may play a pivotal role in the spread of SFGR among communities. Estimating the seroprevalence of SFGR in the canine population can help public health campaigns target high‐risk communities for interventions to reduce human RMSF cases.
Ion beam sputtering of silicon: Energy distributions of sputtered and scattered ions
Authors: Kalanov Dmitry , Anders André , Bundesmann Carsten
Published: August 2019

The properties of sputtered and scattered ions are studied for ion beam sputtering of Si by bombardment with noble gas ions. The energy distributions in dependence on ion beam parameters (ion energy: 0.5–1 keV; ion species: Ne, Ar, Xe) and geometrical parameters (ion incidence angle, polar emission angle, and scattering angle) are measured by means of energy-selective mass spectrometry. The presence of anisotropic effects due to direct sputtering and scattering is discussed and correlated with process parameters. The experimental results are compared to calculations based on a simple elastic binary collision model and to simulations using the Monte-Carlo code sdtrimsp. The influence of the contribution of implanted primary ions on energy distributions of sputtered and scattered particles is studied in simulations. It is found that a 10% variation of the target composition leads to detectable but small differences in the energy distributions of scattered ions. Comparison with previously reported data for other ion/target configurations confirms the presence of similar trends and anisotropic effects: the number of high-energy sputtered ions increases with increasing energy of incident ions and decreasing scattering angle. The effect of the ion/target mass ratio is additionally investigated. Small differences are observed with the change of the primary ion species: the closer the mass ratio to unity, the higher the average energy of sputtered ions. The presence of peaks, assigned to different mechanisms of direct scattering, strongly depends on the ion/target mass ratio.
Utilization of a Simple Educational Tool in Science Education: The V-Shape Spring
Authors: Nakano Sumiaki
Published: August 2019

Nowadays, inquiry-based learning is getting a lot of attention as an effective education method. Therefore, it has been researched and implemented in various countries. Inquiry-based learning has been used in various subjects such as biology, mathematics, social studies, and others. In order to encourage a smooth implementation of inquiry-based learning in science, enhancement of scientific knowledge is primarily important. In general, scientific knowledge is taught to students in usual sessions of each subject such as physics, chemistry, and biology. During these sessions, the students mostly use some kind of textbook, in which various scientific terms and theories are described efficiently. However, the knowledge acquired via textbook-based learning could sometimes deviate from reality. And, consequently, the superficial and restrictive knowledge deviating from reality could prevent students’ appropriate interpretations and inspirations in inquiry-based learning. I would like to propose one effective approach to have students realize the gap between their knowledge acquired from textbooks and a real phenomenon, by using the spring as an example.
PICUP: A Community of Teachers Integrating Computation into Undergraduate Physics Courses
Authors: Caballero Marcos D. , Chonacky Norman , Engelhardt Larry , Hilborn Robert C. , del Puerto Marie Lopez , Roos Kelly R.
Published: August 2019

The need to integrate computation into the physics curriculum has long been established: using simulations and computational modeling can enhance students’ conceptual understanding, and the computational skills students acquire are both useful and necessary in their careers. However, making changes to an established physics course is a challenge on many fronts: instructors need to be comfortable with their own computational skills, they need time to find and adapt appropriate materials, and they may have questions about how to integrate computation into their course(s). The Partnership for Integration of Computation into Undergraduate Physics (PICUP) was organized to identify the barriers underlying these challenges, to document the current state of computation use in physics courses, and to explore avenues to reach and engage physics teachers.
The Build-it, Leave-it, Teach-it Program: A Model for Recruiting and Retaining Pre-service Physics Teachers
Authors: Fletcher Kurt , McLean James , Sells Robert , Rommel-Esham Katie , Showers Dennis
Published: August 2019

Science teachers know the deep satisfaction of engaging students in science activities and seeing their excitement when a new idea suddenly makes sense. Providing opportunities to foster such student delight is one way to recruit talented undergraduate physics majors into the teaching profession.
Is loudness part of a sound recognition process?
Authors: Susini Patrick , Houix Olivier , Seropian Lou , Lemaitre Guillaume
Published: August 2019

Influence of loudness on sound recognition was investigated in an explicit memory experiment based on a conscious recollection—test phase—of previously encoded information—study phase. Three encoding conditions were compared: semantic (sounds were sorted in three different categories), sensory (sounds were rated in loudness), and control (participants were solely asked to listen to the sounds). Results revealed a significant study-to-test change effect: loudness change between the study and the test phases affects recognition. The effect was not specific to the encoding condition (semantic vs sensory) suggesting that loudness is an important hint for everyday sounds recognition.
Virtual sound source construction based on radiation direction control using multiple parametric array loudspeakers
Authors: Ogami Yoshinori , Nakayama Masato , Nishiura Takanobu
Published: August 2019

Due to developments in video technology, the study of three-dimensional sound-field reproduction has recently gained attention. A virtual-sound-source (VSS) construction method using multiple parametric-array loudspeakers (PALs), which have sharper directivity, was previously proposed. With this method, multiple PAL units (called PAL array) are used and a VSS is presented with a fixed radiation direction at any point in the air. However, this method requires rearrangement of the PAL array to change the position of the VSS. Thus, in this paper, a VSS-construction method based on radiation direction control using the PAL array is proposed. The proposed method can reconstruct positions and radiation directions of VSSs without rearranging the PAL array. Specifically, the proposed method involves mounting pan and tilt units onto PAL units and electrically controlling their placement angles to focus the acoustic beams from them to the VSS positions. The proposed method also involves controlling the radiation direction of a VSS by weighting the output signal of each PAL unit to simulate the radiation direction of the real sound source. The effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed through objective and subjective experiments.
On the stability of transient nearfield acoustic holography based on the time domain equivalent source method
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Zheng , Bi Chuan-Xing , Zhang Yong-Bin , Xu Liang
Published: August 2019

Transient nearfield acoustic holography based on the time domain equivalent source method suffers from the instability that is caused by the use of the time marching scheme. In this paper, the time marching scheme is reformulated to a large iterative scheme. By conducting the eigenanalysis of this large iterative scheme, a necessary condition for stability, i.e., the maximum magnitude of eigenvalues should not be larger than one, can be obtained. Moreover, the causes of instability are analyzed according to the eigenvalues distribution. By virtue of the eigenanalysis, the mechanisms and drawbacks of three previous stabilization methods based on the Tikhonov regularization, the truncated singular value decomposition (TSVD), and the multistep approach are analyzed. To overcome their drawbacks, the classical golden section method is applied to search the regularization parameters and filter parameters based on the necessary condition for stability. Furthermore, the time averaging technique is introduced into the stabilization methods based on the Tikhonov regularization and the TSVD to eliminate the high-frequency oscillation and release the difficulty of searching the filter parameter, respectively. Numerical simulation results indicate that all the improved methods can realize the stabilization of solutions.
Factors Related to Physical Activity in Early Childhood: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hoyos-Quintero Angela Maria , García-Perdomo Herney Andrés
Published: August 2019

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between biologico-demographical, sociocultural, and environmental factors and the performance of physical activity in early childhood. Methodology: A systematic search was carried out of the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and LILACS, as well as Google Scholar, Open Grey, ClinicalTrials.gov, DARE, PROSPERO, Health Technology Assessment, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, from their first records to June 2018. The selection criteria were previously defined with respect to population age and article theme. No meta-analyses were carried out due to the heterogeneity of the studies. Results: The percentage of moderate to vigorous physical activity runs between 3% and 47%. Environmental and sociocultural factors were identified as exerting a greater influence on children’s physical activity in early childhood, with the environmental factors being, according to almost all the study authors, the greater of the two. Conclusions: According to the studies included in this research project, the factors identified as associated with moderate to vigorous physical activity are environmental (play in open spaces) and sociocultural (the role of the family and the physical activity of the mother). The evidence is not strong enough to conclude that biologico-demographic factors are significantly influential in the physical activity at this age.
Decyl Gallate as a Possible Inhibitor of N-Glycosylation Process in
Paracoccidioides lutzii
Authors: de Paula e Silva Ana Carolina Alves , de Oliveira Haroldo Cesar , Scorzoni Liliana , Marcos Caroline Maria , Santos Claudia Tavares dos , Fusco-Almeida Ana Marisa , Salina Ana Carolina Guerta , Medeiros Alexandra Ivo , Almeida Fausto , Li Sheena Claire , Boone Charles , Mendes-Giannini Maria J. S.
Published: August 2019

The available antifungal therapeutic arsenal is limited. The search for alternative drugs with fewer side effects and new targets remains a major challenge. Decyl gallate (G14) is a derivative of gallic acid with a range of biological activities and broad-spectrum antifungal activity. Previously, our group demonstrated the promising anti-
Paracoccidioides
activity of G14.
Glucanase-Induced Stipe Wall Extension Shows Distinct Differences from Chitinase-Induced Stipe Wall Extension of Coprinopsis cinerea
Authors: Kang Liqin , Zhou Jiangsheng , Wang Rui , Zhang Xingwei , Liu Cuicui , Liu Zhonghua , Yuan Sheng
Published: August 2019

We previously reported that the chitinase could induce stipe wall extension and was involved in stipe elongation growth of the mushroom
Coprinopsis cinerea
. In this study, we explored that β-1,3-glucanase also induced stipe cell wall extension. Interestingly, the extension profile and extended ultra-architecture of β-1,3-glucanase-reconstituted stipe wall were different from those of chitinase-reconstituted stipe wall. However, β-1,3-glucanase cooperated with chitinase to induce stipe cell wall extension. The significance of this synergy between glucanases and chitinases is that it enables a low concentration of active enzymes to induce wall extension, and the involvement of β-1,3-glucanases is necessary for the cell wall remodeling and the addition of new β-glucans during stipe elongation growth.
In Vivo
Dynamics of Reporter
Flaviviridae
Viruses
Authors: Tamura Tomokazu , Igarashi Manabu , Enkhbold Bazarragchaa , Suzuki Tatsuya , Okamatsu Masatoshi , Ono Chikako , Mori Hiroyuki , Izumi Takuma , Sato Asuka , Fauzyah Yuzy , Okamoto Toru , Sakoda Yoshihiro , Fukuhara Takasuke , Matsuura Yoshiharu
Published: August 2019

In vivo
applications of reporter viruses are necessary to understand viral pathogenesis and provide a robust platform for antiviral development. In developing such applications, determination of an ideal locus to accommodate foreign genes is important, because insertion of foreign genes into irrelevant loci can disrupt the protein functions required for viral replication. Here, we investigated the criteria to determine ideal insertion sites of foreign genes from the protein structure of viral proteins. The recombinant viruses generated by our criteria exhibited propagation comparable to that of parental viruses
in vivo
. Our proteomic approach based on the flexibility profile of viral proteins may provide a useful tool for constructing reporter viruses, including
Flaviviridae
viruses.
Learning types and learning success in a structured diabetes education programme for patients with type 2 diabetes: study protocol of a prospective, longitudinal study
Authors: Morro Thimo , Fink Astrid , Carmienke Solveig , Frese Thomas , Guenther Sebastian
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has had a wide-ranging impact on healthcare politics. Secondary diseases and complications caused by diabetes are relevant cost and utilisation factors in the healthcare system. For decades, diabetes self-management education (DSME) has played a major role in the treatment of patients with type 2 DM (T2DM). The aim of this training is to empower patients to actively influence their diabetes process by gaining knowledge about health-related behaviours, such as healthy nutrition and exercise, and cardiovascular risks. The aim of the project is to analyse the practice of structured diabetes education and the effects of different learning types of participants. This project focuses on the needs of socioeconomically deprived patients and aims to improve DSME for this group. This patient group has a higher prevalence of T2DM, more complications and worse therapy-relevant parameters.

Methods and analysis

The study will be conducted as a prospective longitudinal study. Patients will be recruited in outpatient physician offices over a period of 12 months. Patients will be included if they are 18 years and older, have T2DM and are scheduled to participate in DSME for the first time. A pseudonymised, written survey with standardised questionnaires will be administered. The data will be analysed using inferential statistical methods, such as correlation analysis, regression models and variance analytical designs.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will be carried out following the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and good scientific standards. Ethical approval of the Ethics Review Committee of the Medical Faculty at Martin-Luther-University, Halle-Wittenberg, was obtained. All participants in the study will receive comprehensive information and will be included after written informed consent is obtained. The results will be published in international peer-reviewed journals and presented at several congresses.

Trial registration number

DRKS00016630
Neuropathology of dementia in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review of autopsy studies
Authors: Smith Callum , Malek Naveed , Grosset Katherine , Cullen Breda , Gentleman Steve , Grosset Donald G
Published: August 2019

Background

Dementia is a common, debilitating feature of late Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD dementia (PDD) is associated with α-synuclein propagation, but coexistent Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology may coexist. Other pathologies (cerebrovascular, transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43)) may also influence cognition. We aimed to describe the neuropathology underlying dementia in PD.

Methods

Systematic review of autopsy studies published in English involving PD cases with dementia. Comparison groups included PD without dementia, AD, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and healthy controls.

Results

44 reports involving 2002 cases, 57.2% with dementia, met inclusion criteria. While limbic and neocortical α-synuclein pathology had the strongest association with dementia, between a fifth and a third of all PD cases in the largest studies had comorbid AD. In PD cases with dementia, tau pathology was moderate or severe in around a third, and amyloid-β pathology was moderate or severe in over half. Amyloid-β was associated with a more rapid cognitive decline and earlier mortality, and in the striatum, distinguished PDD from DLB. Positive correlations between multiple measures of α-synuclein, tau and amyloid-β were found. Cerebrovascular and TDP-43 pathologies did not generally contribute to dementia in PD. TDP-43 and amyloid angiopathy correlated with coexistent Alzheimer pathology.

Conclusions

While significant α-synuclein pathology is the main substrate of dementia in PD, coexistent pathologies are common. In particular, tau and amyloid-β pathologies independently contribute to the development and pattern of cognitive decline in PD. Their presence should be assessed in future clinical trials where dementia is a key outcome measure.

Trial registration number

CRD42018088691.
Effect of definition and methods on estimates of prevalence of large vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Rai Ansaar T , Vakharia Kunal , Chin Felix , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Accurate estimation of the incidence of large vessel occlusion (LVO) is critical for planning stroke systems of care and approximating workforce requirements. This systematic review aimed to estimate the prevalence of LVO among patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), with emphasis on definitions and methods used by different studies.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed to search for articles on the prevalence of LVO and AIS. All articles describing the frequency of LVO frequency among AIS patients were included. Studies without consecutive recruitment or confirmation of LVO with CT angiography or MR angiography were excluded. Heterogeneity of the studies was assessed; meta-regression was performed to estimate the effect of LVO definition and study methods on LVO prevalence.

Results

18 articles met the inclusion criteria: 5 studies presented population based estimates; 13 provided single hospital experiences (5 prospective, 8 retrospective). The AIS denominator (number of all AIS) from which LVO rates were generated was variable. Nine different definitions were used, based on occlusion site. Significant heterogeneity existed among the studies (I2=99%, P<0.001). The prevalence of LVO among patients with suspected AIS ranged from 13% to 52%. Overall prevalence was 30.0% (95% CI 25.0% to 35.0%). Pooled prevalence of LVO among suspected AIS patients was 21% (95% CI 19% to 30%). Based on meta-regression, the method of AIS denominator determination significantly influenced heterogeneity (P=0.018).

Conclusion

The heterogeneity of LVO estimates was remarkably high. The method of AIS denominator determination was the most significant predictor of LVO estimates. Studies with a standardized LVO definition and methods of AIS estimation are necessary to estimate the true prevalence of LVO among patients with AIS.
Sudden deafness and tuning fork tests: towards optimal utilisation
Authors: Bayoumy Ahmed Bayoumy , de Ru Jacob Alexander
Published: August 2019

The tuning fork tests have been under attack since their first use in clinical examination. However, the tuning fork is small and fits into every white coat, and tuning fork tests for hearing are easy, accurate and inexpensive. They should be used in patients with an acute unilateral hearing loss if an electric audiometer is not available. After more than 100 years, the tuning fork is not obsolete; tuning fork tests are very useful if used correctly and for the appropriate indication.
Thoracic meningomyelocele associated with spina bifida in a Malinois dog
Authors: Musso Clément , Bismuth Camille , Cauzinille Laurent
Published: August 2019

An 8‐month‐old male Malinois dog was presented for progressive chronic pelvic limbs ataxia, paraparesis, arched back since ambulation associated with mild urinary and faecal incontinence. Clinical evaluation revealed a dorsocaudal thoracic spine non‐healing wound with a fistula from which a clear fluid leaked. Neurological examination was compatible with a T3‐L3 spinal cord lesion. CT myelography showed a T11‐T12 spina bifida associated with a meningomyelocele with a fistula tract to the skin (spina bifida aperta). An MRI revealed a syringohydromyelia cranially and caudally to the meningomyelocele. Surgical correction involved removal of the fistula up to the dura mater and closure. A 4 and 12 months clinical and MRI follow up revealed a good locomotion improvement with residual mild ataxia without incontinence. MRI showed no relapse of the meningomyelocele but persistent although reduced syringohydromyelia.
CTH144 flue-cured tobacco F1 hybrid
Authors: Amankwa G.A. , Mishra S. , Shearer A.D. , Saude C. , Van Hooren D.L. , Richmond M.D.
Published: August 2019

CTH144 is a new flue-cured tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) hybrid recommended for commercial release in Canada. The cured leaf quality of CTH144 was superior to both check varieties Delgold and CT157. The yield potential of CTH144 was intermediate compared with the checks. As a result, the economic return of CTH144 is superior to both check varieties. CTH144 has resistance to Tobacco Mosaic Virus. CTH144 is adapted to the tobacco-growing areas of southwestern Ontario.
AAC Big Ben soybean
Authors: Yu K. , Woodrow L. , Shi C.
Published: August 2019

AAC Big Ben is a high yielding, soybean cyst nematode resistant food-grade soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivar with yellow hilum and acceptable processing quality for foreign and domestic tofu, soymilk, and miso markets. AAC Big Ben was developed at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Harrow Research and Development Centre (Harrow-RDC), Harrow, ON. AAC Big Ben is adapted to areas of southwestern Ontario with 3300 or more crop heat units and has a relative maturity group of 2.3 (MG 2.3).
Investigations on physiochemical and third-order nonlinear optical studies on quinolinium based organic crystal
Authors: Kumar Ramar Mohan , Ruckmani Kandasamy
Published: August 2019

Newly identified organic single crystals of 8-hydroyquinolinium 2-chloro 4-nitrobenzoate (HQ2ClNB) were grown by the slow evaporation solution growth technique (SEST) using methanol as a solvent. It crystallizes in monoclinic crystal system with a space group of P21/c. Crystalline nature and phases were confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). The existence of various functional groups in the molecule was identified using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique. Optical transmission window and lower cut-off wavelength of the HQ2ClNB crystal have been evaluated by UV–Visible–NIR studies. Dielectric and photoconductivity studies were recorded. Third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility [Formula: see text] of the crystals were evaluated by [Formula: see text]-scan studies.
A Complete Circuit Model for the Key Distribution System Using Resistors and Noise Sources
Authors: Liu Pao-Lo
Published: August 2019

A complete circuit model is developed for modeling the classical key distribution system based on resistors and band-limited noise sources. Theoretical analysis provides component values, including the mutual inductance. Circuit simulations are performed to obtain voltage and current as a function of frequency. Any imbalance between two sides of the communications link is identified. Results indicate that the current, especially, in the bootstrapping circuit, can be a potential security risk unless all signals are band-limited to a low frequency.
Association between Functional Outcomes and Radiographic Reduction Following Surgery for Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Wollstein Ronit , Allon Raviv , Zvi Yoav , Katz Alan , Werech Sharon , Palmon Orit
Published: August 2019

Background: Quality of reduction in distal radius fractures (DRF) is assessed using radiographic parameters, however few studies examine the association between radiographic measurements and functional outcomes. Our purpose was to evaluate the relationship between radiographic measurements and clinical outcome measures following surgery for DRF using detailed testing to demonstrate further associations between post-surgical radiographic measurements and function.

Methods: Measurements were performed on postoperative radiographs of 38 patients following ORIF of DRF. Measurements included: radial inclination, radial height, ulnar variance, volar tilt, radiocarpal interval (d2/w2), and the intra-articular step-off. Clinical outcome measures included motion, grip strength, functional dexterity testing, Moberg pick-up test, specific activities of daily living, DASH score, pain scale, manual-assessment questionnaire.

Results: Different radiographic parameters correlated with different specific tasks. The parameter correlated with most functional tasks was ulnar-variance. Radial inclination, radial-styloid scaphoid distance, and fracture classification correlated with some functions. Intraarticular step-off, and radial height were not associated with functional testing.

Conclusions: Surgical radiographic results may affect post-operative function. Detailed task specific testing may enable a better evaluation of surgical outcomes. Further study and refinement of functional assessment may change our surgical goals in DRF.
Metaphyseal Core Decompression of the Distal Radius for Early Lunate Necrosis
Authors: Schulz Christoph U.
Published: August 2019

Background: Metaphyseal core decompression of the distal radius (MCD) is clinically effective in early lunate necrosis without changing individual wrist mechanics. Its concept is based on the induction of physiologic mechanisms known as physiologic fracture healing response. However, this biological concept does not yet have its place in the historically developed mechanical concepts about Kienböck’s disease and requires more detailed clarifications to understand when a change of individual wrist mechanics might be unnecessary.

Methods: Thirteen consecutive cases, Lichtman stage I (n = 1) or II (n = 12), confirmed by conventional MRI, were treated by MCD. Time off work, changes in magnetic resonance imaging of the lunate, as well as clinical outcome using modified Mayo wrist score were evaluated at final follow-up.

Results: Return to work was at six (1–10) weeks after surgery. MRI controls at short-term generally demonstrated stop of progression and signs of bone healing. Independently from ulna variance complete signal normalization was observed in six and a distinct, yet incomplete decrease of lunate bone marrow edema and zones of fat necrosis was confirmed in further six cases after a mean of 21 (13–51) weeks. One patient had radiographic controls only, stating normal healing at 56 months. After a mean follow-up of 37 (12–70) months the clinical outcomes were excellent in eleven and good in two cases (mean 95% in modified Mayo wrist score).

Conclusions: In stage I and II lunate necrosis MCD stops disease progression, it improves clinical symptoms and induces normalization of lunate bone signal alterations in MRI. Findings suggest that stage I and II lunate necrosis can be effectively treated without alterations of individual wrist mechanics. Future studies are necessary to readjust common concepts regarding Kienböck’s disease, especially focusing on conservative therapy.
Minimum Ten-Year Outcomes of Partial Ulnar Nerve Transfer for Restoration of Elbow Flexion in Patients with Upper Brachial Plexus Injury
Authors: Nagano Yusuke , Kawamura Daisuke , Terkawi Alaa , Urita Atsushi , Matsui Yuichiro , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: August 2019

Background: Partial ulnar nerve transfer to the biceps motor branch of the musculocutaneous nerve (Oberlin’s transfer) is a successful approach to restore elbow flexion in patients with upper brachial plexus injury (BPI). However, there is no report on more than 10 years subjective and objective outcomes. The purpose of this study was to clarify the long-term outcomes of Oberlin’s transfer based on the objective evaluation of elbow flexion strength and subjective functional evaluation of patients.

Methods: Six patients with BPI who underwent Oberlin’s transfer were reviewed retrospectively by their medical records. The mean age at surgery was 29.5 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 13 years. The objective functional outcomes were evaluated by biceps muscle strength using the Medical Research Council (MRC) grade at preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up. The patient-derived subjective functional outcomes were evaluated using the Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire at final follow-up.

Results: All patients had MRC grade 0 (M0) or 1 (M1) elbow flexion strength before operation. Four patients gained M4 postoperatively and maintained or increased muscle strength at the final follow-up. One patient gained M3 postoperatively and at the final follow-up. Although one patient achieved M4 postoperatively, the strength was reduced to M2 due to additional disorder. The mean score of QuickDASH was 36.5 (range, 7–71). Patients were divided into two groups; three patients had lower scores and the other three patients had higher scores of QuickDASH.

Conclusions: Oberlin’s transfer is effective in the restoration of elbow flexion and can maintain the strength for more than 10 years. Patients with upper BPI with restored elbow flexion strength and no complicated nerve disorders have over ten-year subjective satisfaction.
Diabetic Hand Infection: An Emerging Challenge
Authors: Bahar Moni Ahmed Suparno , Hoque Monirul , Mollah Rayhan Ali , Ivy Razia Sultana , Mujib Israt
Published: August 2019

Background: Hand infection in diabetics is an often ignored but challenging condition. If not addressed effectively, it may result in long term disability, contracture, amputation and even death.

Methods: From August 2014 to December 2015, a study was done in our centre, where 49 diabetic hand infection cases were analyzed in two groups, superficial and deep hand infection.

Results: Mean age of the patients was 51.63 years. There were 21 superficial infections and 28 deep infections. Cause of infection was unknown or spontaneous in 16 cases, traumatic laceration or crush in 14 patients, following minor prick in 10 cases. Most of the cases were the results of neglected minor wound. Forty-one patients were insulin dependent. Five cases were diagnosed as diabetic at the time of treatment. Four patients were treated conservatively and 45 (92%) cases required operation in the form of incision, drainage and debridement. In 16 (35%) cases, wound was left open and was healed by secondary intention following regular dressing. In five patients, wound was closed secondarily. Partial thickness skin graft was applied in 15 cases. Seven patients were treated with flap coverage. Partial digital or ray amputation were done in 16 cases. All fingers except thumb were amputated in one case and amputation from wrist was done in another patient. Wound swabs were taken, and antibiotics were changed or continued accordingly. But reports of 26 cases were available. No growth was found in four cases, monomicrobial infection was found in 15 patients and polymicrobial in seven cases. Infection resolved with healing in 47 cases. Two patients died during treatment from sepsis, both were insulin dependent, had associated renal failure and from deep infection group. One patient developed severe mental disorder.

Conclusions: For diabetic hand infection, early diagnosis and prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics and emergency surgery with extensile incision is crucial. Primary amputation of the part could be life and limb saving.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Plus Intraoperative Corticosteroid Injection versus Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Alone: A Double Blinded Clinical Trial
Authors: Mottaghi Mohammad , Zare Mostafa , Pahlavanhosseini Hamid , Mottaghi Mina
Published: August 2019

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a prevalent disease with significant morbidity. The current treatments range from oral medication and local corticosteroid injection to surgical carpal tunnel release (CTR). In this study, we tried to assess the results of Carpal Tunnel Release surgery in combination with the anti-inflammatory effect of local corticosteroid injection.

Methods: 65 patients were enrolled by clinical and electrodiagnostic tests and randomly divided into two groups, 32 in group one which underwent surgery with Dexamethasone injection and 33 in group 2 which intervened with carpal tunnel release surgery alone. Data on Boston questionnaire of patients were conducted before and two weeks after surgery. Distal motor and sensory latencies of patients were recorded before and two months after surgery. Mean values were compared between groups before and after surgery.

Results: The mean preoperative Boston index was 35.83 in group one and 37.7 in group two, these data postoperative were 15.83 and 19.15 respectively. The mean preoperative distal sensory latency was 54.8 in group one and 47.6 in group two, these data postoperative were 34.1 and 35.1 respectively. The mean preoperative distal motor latency was 63.2 in group one and 62.3 in group two, these data postoperative were 44.5 and 46.55 respectively.

Conclusions: CTR surgery plus local corticosteroid injection did not significantly change in results of Electrodiagnostic test or Boston index compared to the non-injection group.
Impaired Extension of the Digits due to Bilateral Idiopathic Intrinsic Contracture: A Case Report
Authors: Kawasaki Yuki , Ejiri Soichi , Hakozaki Michiyuki , Konno Shinichi
Published: August 2019

Idiopathic intrinsic contracture (IIC) with no history of trauma, ischemia, or spasticity is extremely rare. We report herein a case of impaired extension of the digits due to bilateral IICs occurred in a 30-year-old woman with a past medical history of eating disorder and amenorrhea. Although no previous case has been reported in the literature, eight similar cases of IIC have been presented at Japanese domestic conferences. In these eight cases and the present case, resection of the thenar muscle cords and unilateral resection of the lateral band were effective. Since IIC in patients with an eating disorder is a rare condition, it would be treated conservatively at first as tendon sheath inflammation or locking. However, this condition may be resistant to conservative treatment, and surgical treatment should be considered in such cases.