bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thrombin and plasmin generation in patients with plasminogen or plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 deficiency
Authors: Saes Joline L. , Schols Saskia E. M. , Molitor Kathleen F. , van Geffen Mark , Verbeek‐Knobbe Kitty , Gupta Sweta , Hardesty Brandon M. , Shapiro Amy D. , van Heerde Waander L.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Deficiencies of plasminogen and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI‐1) are rare disorders of fibrinolysis. Current laboratory assays for analysis of activity of plasminogen and PAI‐1 do not provide an accurate correlation with clinical phenotype.

Methods

The Nijmegen Hemostasis Assay (NHA) was used to simultaneously measure thrombin and plasmin generation in 5 patients with plasminogen deficiency (PLGD) and 10 patients with complete PAI‐1 deficiency. Parameters analysed included: lag time ratio, thrombin peak time ratio, thrombin peak height, thrombin potential (AUC), fibrin lysis time, plasmin peak height and plasmin potential. Parameters were expressed as a percentage compared to a reference value of 53 healthy normal controls.

Results

Patients with PLGD demonstrated a short lag time and thrombin peak time, with normal thrombin peak height but an increased AUC. Plasmin generation was able to be detected in only one (23% plasminogen activity) of the five PLGD patients. All ten PAI‐1 deficient patients demonstrated a short lag and thrombin peak time, low thrombin peak height with normal AUC. Plasmin generation revealed an increased plasmin peak and plasmin potential; interestingly, there was a large variation between individual patients despite all patients having the same homozygous defect.

Conclusion

Patients with either PLGD or PAI‐1 deficiency show distinct abnormalities in plasmin and thrombin generation in the NHA. The differences observed in the propagation phase of thrombin generation may be explained by plasmin generation. These results suggest that disorders of fibrinolysis also influence coagulation and a global assay measuring both activities may better correlate with clinical outcome.
Synthesis and in vitro biodegradation of pure octacalcium phosphate spheres
Authors: Tripathi Garima , Miyazaki Toshiki
Published: August 2019

Octacalcium phosphate (OCP) is a key precursor of biological apatite in hard tissues with excellent osteoconductive and biodegradable properties for bone regeneration. OCP spherical granules are expected to be useful as drug delivery carriers, since OCP has high specific surface area. Although there have been some reports of OCP sphere preparation, methods for preparing pure OCP spheres are limited. The objective of this study is the preparation of spherical granules of pure OCP and assessment of their in vitro biodegradation in physiological conditions. We successfully prepared spherical pure OCP granules with a size of ~500 µm without any organic additives by simple immersion of α‐tricalcium phosphate spherical granules in pH 5.0 acetate buffered solutions at 60°C. The granules had core‐shell structure composed of OCP crystals different particle size. The spherical granules showed 20%‐40% in vitro degradation in physiological conditions; however, the phase transition of OCP was not significantly observed.
On the potential of phonetic analysis to distinguish between people with epilepsy and non‐epileptic seizures
Authors: Walker Gareth , Walker Traci , Moon Lauren , Reuber Markus
Published: August 2019

A body of research has shown that there are linguistic differences in the way people with epilepsy talk about their seizures when compared to those with non‐epileptic seizures. We extend this line of research by presenting the results of a phonetic analysis comparing speech samples from people with a confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy (7 patients), to those with a confirmed diagnosis of non‐epileptic seizures (8 patients). Variables considered include features of pitch, intensity, duration and pausing in their responses to questions from a neurologist during medical history‐taking. We find only limited evidence of differences between the two diagnostic groups (epilepsy vs. non‐epileptic seizures). We discuss possible reasons for this lack of evidence.
Effects of simulated gastric and intestinal digestion on chitooligosaccharides in two in vitro models
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Chen Qiming , Xie Chuanqi , Ahmad Waheed , Jiang Lihua , Zhao Liming
Published: August 2019

Chitooligosaccharides (COS) with different degree of polymerisation (DP) have different physiological activities such as anti‐tumour and anti‐hyperlipidemia activities. However, the digestive process might lead to the change of DP of COS as well as cause the change of physiological activities in vivo. In this study, two in vitro digestion models (static and dynamic) were used to investigate digestion behaviours of COS and the influencing factors during digestion with or without food matrix. The results showed that COS with DP 2–5 were indigestible and COS with DP 6–10 degraded with time during gastric and intestinal digestion. Pepsin, pancreatin and lipase were the main factors leading to degradation. Food matrix could protect COS with DP 6–10 from degradation during gastric digestion. However, the degradation of COS with DP 6–10 accelerated and the degradation of COS with DP 5 occurred during intestinal digestion with food matrix due to pancreatin, lipase and bile salt.
Does social responsibility improve firm value? Evidence from mandatory corporate social responsibility regulations in India
Authors: Jadiyappa Nemiraja , Iyer Subramanian R. , Jyothi Pavana
Published: August 2019

The debate on the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on firm value is still unsettled. Empirically, research designs cannot unequivocally prove that CSR affects firm value because CSR and firm value could be predetermined. Using a natural experiment, we prove that CSR positively affects firm value. In this study, we use the mandatory CSR spending regulation implemented by India in 2015, as a natural setting. We compare the changes in the firm value during the pre‐ and postregulation period. Our results show that market value increases for firms that were forced to spend on CSR during postregulation period.
Assessing the applicability of 2017 ACC/AHA hypertension guidelines for secondary stroke prevention in the BOSS study
Authors: Xie Xuewei , Gu Hong-Qiu , Wang Xianwei , Chen Pan , Liu Liping , Li Zixiao , Meng Xia , Wang Yilong , Wang Yongjun
Published: August 2019

Using data from the Blood Pressure and Clinical Outcome in TIA or Ischemic Stroke (BOSS) study, we aim to test the applicability and feasibility of stroke secondary prevention recommendations from the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guideline. Patients were categorized based on their blood pressure (BP) status at 3 months. The nonhypertension group was defined as those without a diagnosis of hypertension. The other patients were further divided into three subgroups according to office BP measured at 3‐month visit (BP <130/80, 130‐139/80‐89, and ≥140/90 mm Hg). The primary outcome was any stroke within one year. The associations between BP status and 1‐year prognosis (recurrent stroke, recurrent stroke/TIA, and poor functional outcome [modified Rankin scale score 3‐6]) were estimated. Among 2341 IS/TIA patients, additional 1056 patients were classified as uncontrolled hypertension at the 90‐day visit according to the new guidelines. Adjusted hazard/odds ratios (95% confidence intervals [CI]) for recurrent stroke in BP <130/80, 130‐139/80‐89, and ≥140/90 compared with nonhypertension group were 2.42 (95% CI: 0.87‐6.76), and 4.30 (95% CI: 1.73‐10.70), respectively. The prevalence of hypertension and uncontrolled BP among BOSS study population was substantially higher based on the new guidelines. BP of 130‐139/80‐89 did not show the worsened clinical outcomes compared with people without hypertension. Our study adds to the growing uncertainty about secondary prevention BP goal for IS/TIA patients.
Networks as First Best? Network Entrepreneurship and Venue Shifting in the Establishment of the Network of Euro–Mediterranean Energy Regulators
Authors: Vantaggiato Francesca Pia
Published: August 2019

Regulators often play a leading role in establishing their informal networks yet regulatory networks are usually considered a second‐best instrument of policy integration. They have no decision‐making powers and unclear policy impact. Why then do regulators initiate networks? The article shows that regulators form networks to shift the venue of policy discussion from a formal setting, dominated by policy‐makers, to an informal one, where they share agenda‐setting power with their peers only. Regulators forming networks are network entrepreneurs, for whom the establishment of the network is a policy goal in itself. Bolstered by previous positive networking experiences, network entrepreneurs consider networks the best instrument for influencing policy. The article analyses the empirical case of the network of energy regulators of the Euro–Mediterranean (MedReg, established in 2006) using elite interviews with 20 stakeholders. The findings hold implications for our understanding of informal regulatory collaboration in the EU and beyond.
Comorbidity Profiles Identified in Older Primary Care Patients Who Attempt Suicide
Authors: Morin Ruth T. , Li Yixia , Mackin R. Scott , Whooley Mary A. , Conwell Yeates , Byers Amy L.
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

To identify comorbidity profiles of older patients last seen in primary care before a suicide attempt and assess attempt and clinical factors (eg, means and lethality of attempt) associated with these profiles.

DESIGN

Cohort study and latent class analysis using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national data (2012‐2014).

SETTING

All VA medical centers in the United States.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 2131 patients 65 years and older who were last seen by a primary care provider before a first documented suicide attempt.

MEASUREMENTS

Fatal suicide attempt and means were identified using the National Suicide Data Repository. Nonfatal attempt was defined using the National Suicide Prevention Applications Network. Medical and psychiatric diagnoses and other variables were determined from electronic medical records.

RESULTS

Patients (mean age = 74.4 y; 98.2% male) were clustered into five classes based on medical and psychiatric diagnoses: Minimal Comorbidity (23.2%); Chronic Pain‐Osteoarthritis (30.1%); Depression‐Chronic Pain (22.9%); Depression‐Medical Comorbidity (16.5%); and High Comorbidity (7.3%). The patients in the Minimal Comorbidity and Chronic Pain‐Osteoarthritis classes were most likely to attempt fatally compared with classes with a higher burden of comorbidities. Overall, 61% of the sample attempted fatally, and 82.5% of suicide decedents used firearms.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that most comorbidity profiles (>50%) in primary care patients attempting suicide were characterized by minimal depression diagnoses and fatal attempts, mostly with firearms. These findings suggest that more than a depression diagnosis contributes to risk and that conversations about firearm safety by medical providers may play an important role in suicide intervention and prevention. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2553–2559, 2019
The effect of aquatic exercises on the physical and functional fitness of adults with Down syndrome: A non‐randomised controlled trial
Authors: Boer Pieter‐Henk , de Beer Zelda
Published: August 2019

Background

The importance of exercise for individuals with Down syndrome (DS) has been well documented. The use of aquatic exercises may be an attractive alternative to land‐based exercises for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions such as low muscle tone and excess adiposity as found in adults with DS. As a result, the purpose of the current study was to study the effect of an aquatic training intervention on the functional fitness for adults with DS.

Methods

Participants were recruited from two intellectually disabled care centres in the Western Cape of South Africa. Twenty‐three adults with DS (13 men and 10 women) (31.4 ± 7.4 years) were allocated to an aquatic training group or a control group. The exercise group performed 35 min of aquatic training, three times a week for 6 weeks, with an increase duration of 45 min after 3 weeks. Outcome measures assessed were aerobic capacity, muscular strength, functional ability and balance.

Results

The aerobic capacity and functional ability of the participants in the aquatic group improved significantly than in the control group with strong to medium effect sizes. Two out of the three strength parameters also improved significantly than in the control group.

Conclusions

The functional fitness of adults with DS improved with an aquatic intervention but was insufficient to improve balance and upper body strength. The improvement of various parameters associated with functional fitness is important in this population who age prematurely, suffer from the early onset of age‐related conditions, are vulnerable to falls and susceptible to chronic conditions.
Prenatal drug exposure and neurodevelopmental programming of glucocorticoid signalling
Authors: Franks Alexis L. , Berry Kimberly J. , DeFranco Donald B.
Published: August 2019

Prenatal neurodevelopment is dependent on precise functioning of multiple signalling pathways in the brain, including those mobilised by glucocorticoids (GC) and endocannabinoids (eCBs). Prenatal exposure to drugs of abuse, including opioids, alcohol, cocaine and cannabis, has been shown to not only impact GC signalling, but also alter functioning of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis. Such exposures can have long‐lasting neurobehavioural consequences, including alterations in the stress response in the offspring. Furthermore, cannabis contains cannabinoids that signal via the eCB pathway, which is linked to some components of GC signalling in the adult brain. Given that GCs are frequently used in pregnancy to prevent complications of prematurity, and also that rates of cannabis use in pregnancy are increasing, the likelihood of foetal co‐exposure to these compounds is high and may have additional implications for long‐term neurodevelopment. Here, we present a discussion of GC signalling and the HPA axis, as well as the effects of prenatal drug exposure on these pathways and the stress response, and we explore the interactions between GC and EC signalling in the developing brain and potential for neurodevelopmental consequences.
In vivo identification of arteries and veins using two‐photon excitation elastin autofluorescence
Authors: Li Hui , Yan Meng , Yu Jia , Xu Qiang , Xia Xianyuan , Liao Jiuling , Zheng Wei
Published: August 2019

Distinguishing arteries from veins in vivo has a great significance in clinical practices and preclinical studies. Optical imaging methods such as two‐photon microscopy can provide high‐resolution morphological information of tissue and are therefore extremely suitable for imaging small blood vessels. However, few optical imaging methods allow in vivo identification of arteries and veins merely utilizing the autofluorescence signal of blood vessels. In this report, we found the arterial wall generates a remarkably stronger two‐photon excitation autofluorescence (TPEA) signal compared with the venous wall based on BALB/c mice. According to histological analysis and fluorescence characteristic measurement, the contrast signal is confirmed to be from elastin fibers. Employing this unique feature, we propose an objective and effective artery–vein separation strategy that considers the presence of the elastin‐TPEA border as the indicator of arteries. Using this strategy, the arterial and venous networks of the dorsal skin and cerebral cortex of BALB/c mice are demonstrated to be excellently mapped and accurately separated in vivo without depending on any exogenous contrast agent, empirical knowledge, and algorithm. This study may provide a novel technique for mapping arterial and venous networks for anatomic research as well as an extra aid to basic researches on the mechanism, diagnosis, and treatment of blood vessel‐related diseases.
Does Payday Lending Hurt Food Security in Low‐Income Households?
Authors: Chang Yunhee
Published: August 2019

During the study period of 2005–2011, household food insecurity rates as well as regulations over payday lending industry increased in the United States. This study evaluates the association between access to payday lending and the risk of food insecurity using cross‐sectional samples of low‐income households from the 2005 to 2011 Food Security Supplements of the Current Population Survey. The study uses county‐level payday lender density, state‐level legislative status, and county border indicators of cross‐state payday access to examine how payday lender availability affects household food insecurity. The findings suggest that access to payday lending, which may be presumed to provide convenient short‐term credit to underserved consumers, increases the likelihood of household food insecurity by 2.8–6.0 percentage points in absolute terms. Furthermore, the county border effect of payday access has become insignificant later in the sample period, the potential reasons for which are discussed.
Impact of chemotherapy on symptoms and symptom clusters in postmenopausal women with breast cancer prior to aromatase inhibitor therapy
Authors: Li Hongjin , Sereika Susan M. , Marsland Anna L. , Conley Yvette P. , Bender Catherine M.
Published: August 2019

Aims and Objectives

To examine and compare the differences in symptoms and symptom clusters between postmenopausal women with early‐stage breast cancer who did and did not receive chemotherapy prior to aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy.

Background

Women with breast cancer often experience multiple concurrent symptoms during AI therapy. The burden of symptoms prior to AI is associated with nonadherence to cancer treatment. To date, few studies have comprehensively explored the symptoms and symptom clusters occurring prior to AI therapy.

Design

Secondary analysis of a prospective repeated‐measures study.

Methods

The sample comprised postmenopausal women (N = 339) with breast cancer who would receive AI therapy with or without chemotherapy. We collected information on 48 symptoms after surgery or chemotherapy but before AI therapy using different symptom assessment tools. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare the differences in the severity of symptoms between groups. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to determine symptom clusters. This study followed STROBE guidelines.

Results

The most severe symptoms among women with breast cancer prior to AI therapy were breast sensitivity, unhappy with the appearance of my body, general aches and pain, joint pain and muscle stiffness. Women who received chemotherapy prior to AI therapy experienced significantly higher severity of 22 symptoms than women who did not receive chemotherapy. Through EFA seven distinct symptom clusters were revealed in both groups: cognitive, musculoskeletal, psychological, vasomotor, weight, sexual and urinary, with additional gastrointestinal symptom cluster been identified in women who received chemotherapy.

Conclusions

This study indicates the presence of symptoms among women with breast cancer prior to AI therapy, with higher severity of symptoms and greater number of symptom clusters for women who received chemotherapy.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses should assess and be aware of symptoms and symptom clusters existed prior to AI therapy and manage them in advance.
Variations in indwelling urinary catheter use in four Australian acute care hospitals
Authors: Giles Michelle , Graham Laura , Ball Jean , Watts Wendy , King Jennie , Bantawa Kamana , Paul Michelle , Harris Alison , Paul O'Brien Anthony , Parker Vicki
Published: August 2019

Aims and objectives

To identify the point prevalence of indwelling urinary catheters (IDCs) in adult inpatients in acute care hospitals, and to describe the indications for IDC insertion based on patient age, gender, specialty and hospital.

Background

Catheter‐associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are preventable healthcare‐associated infections. IDC duration is the strongest predictor of CAUTI, and little is known about characteristics of patients who receive an IDC.

Design

Two single‐day point prevalence surveys collected baseline patient data as part of a larger pre‐post control‐intervention study.

Methods

Surveys were conducted at four acute care hospitals in NSW, Australia, for all adult patients. Data collection included IDC presence, insertion details and urine culture collection. Point prevalence data were linked with electronically extracted patient demographic data.

This study is presented in line with STROBE checklist (See Supplementary File 1).

Result

Data from 1,630 patients were analysed, with 196 patients (12%) identified as having an IDC on the survey dates. IDC prevalence rates were higher in males (13%) than in females (11%). Critical care had the highest rate of patients with IDCs (42%). Urine cultures were collected in 70 patients with an IDC (43%).

Conclusions

Findings indicated similar rates of IDC use in males and females, and there was no significant difference in age between patients with or without an IDC. However, indication for IDC varied by patient age and gender. High rates of urine culture collection may represent routine collection.

Relevance to clinical practice

IDC use is found across genders, all age groups and specialties. Nurses should be aware that any of their patients may have an IDC and be particularly aware of certain indications based on patient age and gender. Routine urine culture collection is not advised, and instead, nurses should be guided by clinical decision‐making tools.
Preparation and preliminary pharmacokinetics study of GNA-loaded zein nanoparticles
Authors: Cheng Weiye , Wang Beilei , Zhang Caiyun , Dong Qiannian , Qian Jiajia , Zha Liqiong , Chen Weidong , Hong Lufeng
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Gambogenic acid (GNA), one of the main active ingredients isolated from Garcinia cambogia, has shown diverse antitumour activities. However, short biological half-life and low oral bioavailability severely limit its clinical application. Here, we developed GNA-loaded zein nanoparticles (GNA-ZN-NPs) based on phospholipid complex and zein nanoparticles to prolong the circulation time and enhance oral bioavailability of GNA.

Methods

The physicochemical properties of GNA-ZN-NP were characterized in details. The in vitro release profile, in vivo pharmacokinetic experiments and tissue distribution of GNA-ZN-NPs were also evaluated.

Key findings

The particle size, PDI and encapsulation efficiency of GNA-ZN-NPs were 102.90 nm, 0.027 and 76.35 ± 0.64%, respectively. The results of SEM, FTIR, DSC and XRD demonstrated that GNA-ZN-NPs were prepared successfully. The in vitro dissolution of GNA-ZN-NPs exhibited controlled release compared with raw GNA solution. The pharmacokinetic study showed that the AUC of GNA-ZN-NPs was significantly increased, and the t1/2 and MRT values of GNA-ZN-NPs were 3.21-fold and 2.19-fold higher than that of GNA solution. Tissue distribution results illustrated that GNA-ZN-NPs showed hepatic-targeting properties.

Conclusion

GNA-ZN-NPs significantly enhanced the oral bioavailability and prolonged half-life of GNA, providing a promising oral drug delivery system to improve in vivo pharmacokinetic behaviour of GNA.
Factors affecting cigarette smoking among adolescents in South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand
Authors: Joung Kyoung H. , Chung Sung S.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The current study was designed to describe risk and preventive factors related to cigarette smoking among adolescents in South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand.

Design and Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive design was used. Student data were extracted from three national data sets, specifically the Global Youth Tobacco Survey from each country. Complex sampling multinomial logistic regression was performed to find factors related to current smoking.

Results

The prevalence of cigarette smoking was 4.7% in South Korean students, 2.8% in Vietnamese students, and 10.9% in Thai students. Students shared three risk factors related to current smoking: male sex, use of other tobacco products, and susceptibility to smoking. Additionally, only one preventive factor of cigarette smoking was found among South Korean adolescents: exposure to antitobacco advertisements. The findings suggest that personal, familial, social, and public area characteristics are associated with smoking among adolescents from these nations.

Practice Implications

These results could be useful for screening students vulnerable to cigarette smoking and the collaborative planning of interventions to prevent adolescents from smoking in these three Asian countries.
Clinical and magnetic resonance imaging characterization of cervical spondylomyelopathy in juvenile dogs
Authors: de Albuquerque Bonelli Marília , da Costa Ronaldo C.
Published: August 2019

Background

Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) occurs because of compression of the cervical spinal cord, nerve roots, or both, usually affecting young adult to older large and giant breed dogs. Juvenile dogs are affected infrequently.

Objective

To describe clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in juvenile dogs (≤ 12 months) with cervical spondylomyelopathy.

Animals

Twenty CSM‐affected juvenile dogs.

Methods

Medical and imaging records for juvenile dogs with CSM were reviewed. History and neurologic examination findings were obtained, including follow‐up data. The MRI studies were reviewed for cause and site of spinal cord compression, intervertebral disk protrusion or degeneration, articular process degenerative changes, intervertebral foraminal stenosis, and spinal cord signal changes.

Results

Mean (median) age at the time of diagnosis was 9.4 (10) months. There were 16 giant breed dogs. Eighteen dogs had a chronic presentation, 18/20 had proprioceptive ataxia, and 9/20 had cervical pain. On MRI, the principal spinal cord compression occurred at C5‐C6, C6‐C7, or both in most dogs; 12/20 dogs had ≥2 sites of spinal cord compression. The cause of compression was articular process proliferation in 8/20 dogs and disk protrusion in 2/20 dogs. Intervertebral disk degeneration was seen in 9/20 dogs. Follow‐up was obtained for 12/20 dogs: 10/12 were managed medically and 2/12 surgically.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cervical spondylomyelopathy in juvenile dogs was characterized mostly by osseous‐associated spinal cord compression and multiple compressive sites. Almost half of the dogs had intervertebral disk degeneration. Intervertebral disk protrusion was seen in both giant and large breed dogs.
Eosinophilic bronchitis, eosinophilic granuloma, and eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy in 75 dogs (2006‐2016)
Authors: Johnson Lynelle R. , Johnson Eric G. , Hulsebosch Sean E. , Dear Jonathan D. , Vernau William
Published: August 2019

Background

Eosinophilic lung disease is a poorly understood inflammatory airway disease that results in substantial morbidity.

Objective

To describe clinical findings in dogs with eosinophilic lung disease defined on the basis of radiographic, bronchoscopic, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAL) analysis. Categories included eosinophilic bronchitis (EB), eosinophilic granuloma (EG), and eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy (EBP).

Animals

Seventy‐five client owned dogs.

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for dogs with idiopathic BAL fluid eosinophilia. Information abstracted included duration and nature of clinical signs, bronchoscopic findings, and laboratory data. Thoracic radiographs were evaluated for the pattern of infiltrate, bronchiectasis, and lymphadenomegaly.

Results

Thoracic radiographs were normal or demonstrated a bronchial pattern in 31 dogs assigned a diagnosis of EB. Nine dogs had intraluminal mass lesions and were bronchoscopically diagnosed with EG. The remaining 35 dogs were categorized as having EBP based on radiographic changes, yellow green mucus in the airways, mucosal changes, and airway collapse. Age and duration of cough did not differ among groups. Dogs with EB were less likely to have bronchiectasis or peripheral eosinophilia, had lower total nucleated cell count in BAL fluid, and lower percentage of eosinophils in BAL fluid compared to dogs in the other 2 groups. In contrast to previous reports, prolonged survival (>55 months) was documented in dogs with EG.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs with eosinophilic lung disease can be categorized based on imaging, bronchoscopic and BAL fluid cytologic findings. Further studies are needed to establish response to treatment in these groups.
Pharmacokinetics of midazolam and its major metabolite 1‐hydroxymidazolam in the ball python (Python regius) after intracardiac and intramuscular administrations
Authors: Larouche Cédric B. , Johnson Ron , Beaudry Francis , Mosley Craig , Gu Yu , Zaman Kristopher Afshaun , Beaufrère Hugues , Dutton Christopher
Published: August 2019

Midazolam is a benzodiazepine with sedative, muscle relaxant, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant effects. Twelve ball pythons (Python regius) were used in a parallel study evaluating the pharmacokinetics of 1 mg/kg midazolam following a single intracardiac (IC) or intramuscular (IM) administration. Blood was collected from a central venous catheter placed 7 days prior, or by cardiocentesis, at 15 time points starting just prior to and up to 72 hr after drug administration. Plasma concentrations of midazolam and 1‐hydroxymidazolam were determined by the use of high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem‐mass spectrometry and pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using noncompartmental analysis. The mean ± SD terminal half‐lives of IC and IM midazolam were 12.04 ± 3.25 hr and 16.54 ± 7.10 hr, respectively. The area under the concentration‐time curve extrapolated to infinity, clearance, and apparent volume of distribution in steady‐state of IC midazolam were 19,112.3 ± 3,095.9 ng*hr/ml, 0.053 ± 0.008 L hr−1 kg−1, and 0.865 ± 0.289 L/kg, respectively. The bioavailability of IM midazolam was estimated at 89%. Maximum plasma concentrations following an IM administration were reached 2.33 ± 0.98 hr and 24.00 ± 14.12 hr postinjection for midazolam and 1‐hydroxymidazolam, respectively, and 22.33 ± 20.26 hr postinjection for 1‐hydroxymidazolam following IC administration.
Distinct functional roles for hopanoid composition in the chemical tolerance of Zymomonas mobilis
Authors: Brenac Léa , Baidoo Edward E.K. , Keasling Jay D. , Budin Itay
Published: August 2019

Hopanoids are a class of membrane lipids found in diverse bacterial lineages, but their physiological roles are not well understood. The ethanol fermenter Zymomonas mobilis features the highest measured concentration of hopanoids, leading to the hypothesis that these lipids can protect against the solvent toxicity. However, the lack of genetic tools for manipulating hopanoid composition in this bacterium has limited their further functional analysis. Due to the polyploidy (>50 genome copies per cell) of Z. mobilis, we found that disruptions of essential hopanoid biosynthesis (hpn) genes act as genetic knockdowns, reliably modulating the abundance of different hopanoid species. Using a set of hpn transposon mutants, we demonstrate that both reduced hopanoid content and modified hopanoid polar head group composition mediate growth and survival in ethanol. In contrast, the amount of hopanoids, but not their head group composition, contributes to fitness at low pH. Spectroscopic analysis of bacterial‐derived liposomes showed that hopanoids protect against several ethanol‐driven phase transitions in membrane structure, including lipid interdigitation and bilayer dissolution. We propose that hopanoids act through a combination of hydrophobic and inter‐lipid hydrogen bonding interactions to stabilize bacterial membranes during solvent stress.
Influences of gender‐related perceptions and experiences on nursing professionalism: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Park Sihyun , Kwon Deok‐Wha , Kim Dahye , Kim Sin‐Hyang
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of gender‐related perceptions and experiences on nursing professionalism among nursing students who grew up in a culture with strong gender norms. Data were collected through an online survey from a convenience sample of nursing students in South Korea. To examine gender‐related perceptions, we assessed beliefs in gender stereotypes and the level of benevolent sexism. Direct and indirect experiences of gender violence were assessed by examining participants' histories of involvement in intimate partner violence and witnessing parental violence. Nursing students' gender‐related perceptions were significantly related to their nursing professionalism, whereas their experiences of gender violence were non‐significantly related. More specifically, those who had stronger gender stereotypes showed a weaker perception of nursing professionalism. In addition, benevolent sexism was a strong predictor of nursing professionalism. We strongly recommend that nursing educators address gender‐related issues in their nursing education, as this might help to minimize gender‐stereotyped thoughts among nursing students, which can hamper their growth as professionals.
Calcium‐dependent protein kinase 5 links calcium signaling with N‐hydroxy‐l‐pipecolic acid‐ and SARD1‐dependent immune memory in systemic acquired resistance
Authors: Guerra Tiziana , Schilling Silke , Hake Katharina , Gorzolka Karin , Sylvester Fabian‐Philipp , Conrads Benjamin , Westermann Bernhard , Romeis Tina
Published: August 2019

Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) prepares infected plants for faster and stronger defense activation upon subsequent attacks. SAR requires an information relay from primary infection to distal tissue and the initiation and maintenance of a self‐maintaining phytohormone salicylic acid (SA)‐defense loop.

In spatial and temporal resolution, we show that calcium‐dependent protein kinase CPK5 contributes to immunity and SAR. In local basal resistance, CPK5 functions upstream of SA synthesis, perception, and signaling. In systemic tissue, CPK5 signaling leads to accumulation of SAR‐inducing metabolite N‐hydroxy‐L‐pipecolic acid (NHP) and SAR marker genes, including Systemic Acquired Resistance Deficient 1 (SARD1)

Plants of increased CPK5, but not CPK6, signaling display an ‘enhanced SAR’ phenotype towards a secondary bacterial infection. In the sard1‐1 background, CPK5‐mediated basal resistance is still mounted, but NHP concentration is reduced and enhanced SAR is lost.

The biochemical analysis estimated CPK5 half maximal kinase activity for calcium, K50 [Ca2+], to be c. 100 nM, close to the cytoplasmic resting level. This low threshold uniquely qualifies CPK5 to decode subtle changes in calcium, a prerequisite to signal relay and onset and maintenance of priming at later time points in distal tissue. Our data explain why CPK5 functions as a hub in basal and systemic plant immunity.
Patterns and dynamics of canopy–root coupling in tropical tree saplings vary with light intensity but not with root depth
Authors: Oren Israel , Mannerheim Neringa , Dumbur Rita , Fangmeier Andreas , Buchmann Nina , Grünzweig José M.
Published: August 2019

Carbon (C) dynamics in canopy and roots influence whole‐tree carbon fluxes, but little is known about canopy regulation of tree‐root activity. Here, the patterns and dynamics of canopy–root C coupling are assessed in tropical trees.

Large aeroponics facility was used to study the root systems of Ceiba pentandra and Khaya anthotheca saplings directly at different light intensities.

In Ceiba, root respiration (Rr) co‐varied with photosynthesis (An) in large saplings (3‐to‐7‐m canopy–root axis) at high‐light, but showed no consistent pattern at low‐light. At medium‐light and in small saplings (c. 1‐m axis), Rr tended to decrease transiently towards midday. Proximal roots had higher Rr and nonstructural carbohydrate concentrations than distal roots, but canopy–root coupling was unaffected by root location. In medium‐sized Khaya, no Rr pattern was observed, and in both species, Rr was unrelated to temperature.

The early‐afternoon increase in Rr suggests that canopy–root coupling is based on mass flow of newly fixed C in the phloem, whereas the early‐morning rise in Rr with An indicates an additional coupling signal that travels faster than the phloem sap. In large saplings and potentially also in higher trees, light and possibly additional environmental factors control the diurnal patterns of canopy–root coupling, irrespective of root location.
Dominant inhibition of awn development by a putative zinc‐finger transcriptional repressor expressed at the B1 locus in wheat
Authors: Huang Daiqing , Zheng Qian , Melchkart Tancey , Bekkaoui Yasmina , Konkin David J. F. , Kagale Sateesh , Martucci Martial , You Frank M. , Clarke Martha , Adamski Nikolai M. , Chinoy Catherine , Steed Andrew , McCartney Curt A. , Cutler Adrian J. , Nicholson Paul , Feurtado J. Allan
Published: August 2019

Awns, bristle‐like structures extending from grass lemmas, provide protection against predators, contribute to photosynthesis and aid in grain dispersal. In wheat, selection of awns with minimal extension, termed awnletted, has occurred during domestication by way of loci that dominantly inhibit awn development, such as Tipped1 (B1), Tipped2 (B2), and Hooded (Hd). Here we identify and characterize the B1 gene.

B1 was identified using bulked segregant RNA‐sequencing of an F2 durum wheat population and through deletion mapping of awned bread wheat mutants. Functional characterization was accomplished by gene overexpression while haplotype analyses assessed B1 polymorphisms and genetic variation.

Located on chromosome 5A, B1 is a C2H2 zinc finger encoding gene with ethylene‐responsive element binding factor‐associated amphiphilic repression (EAR) motifs. Constitutive overexpression of B1 in awned wheat produced an awnletted phenotype with pleiotropic effects on plant height and fertility. Transcriptome analysis of B1 overexpression plants suggests a role as transcriptional repressor, putatively targeting pathways involved in cell proliferation. Haplotype analysis revealed a conserved B1 coding region with proximal polymorphisms and supported the contention that B1 is mainly responsible for awnletted wheats globally.

B1, predominantly responsible for awn inhibition in wheat, encodes a C2H2 zinc finger protein with EAR motifs which putatively functions as a transcriptional repressor.
Media food marketing and eating outcomes among pre‐adolescents and adolescents: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Qutteina Yara , De Backer Charlotte , Smits Tim
Published: August 2019

The media marketing's effect on child and adult eating has been extensively researched, yet, little is known about its effect on adolescents. The aim of this review is to synthesize available research on the relation between media food marketing and eating‐related cognitions, attitudes, and behaviors among pre‐adolescents (8‐11) and adolescents (12‐19). We systematically screened and retrieved 9324 articles, of which 28 were included in the review‐analysis and 19 in the meta‐analysis. Robust variance estimation with random effect weights indicated a positive small standard effect size (d = 0.26, P < .001) of media food marketing on all unhealthy eating outcomes, and a subgroup analysis revealed a small effect size (d = 0.26, P < .001) on unhealthy eating behaviors specifically. Another subgroup analysis among adolescents revealed an effect of marketing (d = 0.22, P < .05) on unhealthy eating outcomes. This review demonstrates the significance of media marketing on eating in pre‐adolescents and adolescents, and highlights limitations in the food marketing and adolescent eating literature specific to eating outcomes and marketing media studied and research designs utilized. We call for properly designed food marketing research exploring digital media's effect on eating attitudes and cognitions, especially among older adolescents.
Impact of bariatric surgery on serum uric acid levels and the incidence of gout—A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yeo Charleen , Kaushal Sanghvi , Lim Beatrice , Syn Nicholas , Oo Aung Myint , Rao Jaideepraj , Koura Aaryan , Yeo Danson
Published: August 2019

Gout is characterized by high serum uric acid (SUA) levels and arthritis. It is associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Bariatric surgery has been associated with decreased SUA levels and overall gout incidence. This meta‐analysis aims to summarize the current evidence on bariatric surgery, gout and SUA levels. A literature review was performed on papers published from 2000 up till December 2018. Original studies investigating the impact of bariatric surgery on SUA levels or gout incidence were evaluated. Twenty studies with a total of 5,233 patients were analysed. Majority (n=14) had a follow‐up duration of at least 12 months. The mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 45.2kg m−2. The mean preoperative SUA level was 6.5mg dL−1. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a mean decrease in SUA levels (−0.73mg dL−1) from the third postoperative month onwards, which was sustained until the third postoperative year (−1.91mg dL−1). There was a rise in SUA levels in the first post‐operative month. Meta‐regression analyses demonstrated a proportionate linear relationship between the change in BMI and SUA levels. Post‐bariatric surgery weight loss is associated with reduced SUA levels and decreased incidence of gout attacks. However, this is only evident from the third post‐operative month onwards.
The lipid transfer protein OsLTPL159 is involved in cold tolerance at the early seedling stage in rice
Authors: Zhao Jie , Wang Shanshan , Qin Jingjing , Sun Chuanqing , Liu Fengxia
Published: August 2019

Nonspecific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) play critical roles in plant development and response to abiotic stresses. Here, we found that a rice lipid transfer protein, OsLTPL159, was associated with cold tolerance at the early seedling stage. Overexpression of an OsLTPL159IL112 allele from the cold‐tolerant introgression line IL112 in either the japonica variety Zhonghua17 (ZH17) or the indica variety Teqing background dramatically enhanced cold tolerance. In addition, down‐regulation of the expression of OsLTPL159 in the japonica variety ZH17 by RNA interference (RNAi) significantly decreased cold tolerance. Further transcriptomic, physiological and histological analysis showed that the OsLTPL159IL112 allele likely enhanced the cold tolerance of rice at the early seedling stage by decreasing the toxic effect of reactive oxygen species, enhancing cellulose deposition in the cell wall and promoting osmolyte accumulation, thereby maintaining the integrity of the chloroplasts. Notably, overexpression of another allele, OsLTPL159GC2, from the recipient parent Guichao 2 (GC2), an indica variety, did not improve cold tolerance, indicating that the variations in the OsLTPL159 coding region of GC2 might disrupt its function for cold tolerance. Further sequence comparison found that all 22 japonica varieties surveyed had an OsLTPL159 haplotype identical to IL112 and were more cold‐tolerant than the surveyed indica varieties, implying that the variations in OsLTPL159 might be associated with differential cold tolerance of japonica and indica rice. Therefore, our findings suggest that the OsLTPL159 allele of japonica rice could be used to improve cold tolerance of indica rice through a molecular breeding strategy.
Agminated fibroblastic connective tissue nevus in a 1‐year‐old boy
Authors: Ohata Marie , Fujiwara Susumu , Yoshioka Ai , Nagai Hiroshi , Sugita Shintaro , Yamano Nozomi , Inoue Yusuke , Nishigori Chikako
Published: August 2019

Fibroblastic connective tissue nevus (FCTN) is a benign cutaneous mesenchymal lesion characterized by proliferation of CD34‐positive fibroblastic/myofibroblastic spindle‐shaped cells. We report a case of agminated FCTN on the right lower abdomen of a 1‐year‐old boy.
Understanding alopecia areata characteristics in children under the age of 4 years
Authors: Rangu Sneha , Rogers Rachel , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie
Published: August 2019

Background/Objectives

Epidemiologic studies of children with alopecia areata (AA) are sparse, and there are no studies that focus on the youngest children with AA. Evaluation of the clinical presentations of AA in children <4 years of age was performed in order to identify the prognostic factors for disease progression.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of 125 pediatric patients seen at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia with an initial presentation of AA under the age of 4. Disease severity was measured using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score at initial presentation, 3‐6 months later, 1 year later, and then at 2 years.

Results

Initial presentation was most common between ages 2 and 4 years. Most children had mild disease severity and continued mild disease over the next 2 years. Children with more than 50% of hair loss at presentation were much more likely to have worsening SALT scores over time and remain more severe. Approximately 41% had concomitant atopic dermatitis, 28% had a family member with AA, and 27% had a first‐degree family member with one or more autoimmune diseases.

Conclusions

In a diverse patient population, most children with AA even when presenting under age 4 have mild disease (<50% hair loss on scalp). Those who present with more severe disease are more likely to worsen or remain severe over time. These findings can aid family counseling and education.
You Are Who You Think You Are: Linked Fate and Vote Choices among Latino Voters
Authors: Escaleras Monica , Kim Dukhong , Wagner Kevin M.
Published: August 2019

Eres quien crees ser: destino compartido y opciones electorales entre votantes latinos

Analistas de la política americana han considerado por mucho tiempo el creciente poder de la población latina en los Estados Unidos como una variable significativa de las elecciones. No obstante, el supuesto de que los latinos comparten perspectivas y comportamientos políticos similares permanece en el mejor de los casos indeterminado con resultados mixtos. En esta investigación, usamos datos originales para probar si el votante latino actúa basado en la perspectiva de que su destino individual está conectado con el destino de su grupo de adscripción racial o étnico o si actúa basado en su propio interés. Ponemos a prueba estas motivaciones/proclividades en dos elecciones. Nuestros hallazgos muestran que la identidad del grupo es un predictor significativo del comportamiento electoral de los latinos.