bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early Results of a Management Algorithm for Collapsing Spine Deformity in Young Children (Below 10-Year Old) With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type II
Authors: Bekmez Senol , Dede Ozgur , Yataganbaba Alper , Demirkiran Halil G. , Yazici Muharrem 
Published: December 2019

Background:
Progressive C-shaped scoliosis with marked pelvic obliquity is common to spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Reducing the number of procedures with effective deformity control is critical to minimize the risk of pulmonary complications. This study reports the preliminary results of magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGR) in SMA-related collapsing spine deformity.

Methods:
Inclusion criteria for this retrospective review were: (1) SMA type 2 patients, (2) early onset scoliosis (below 10 y), (3) collapsing spine deformity with pelvic obliquity, (4) growth-friendly scoliosis treatment with MCGR, (5) in between 2014 and 2017. Extracted data included demographic and clinical information, radiologic parameters, surgical details, and final status of the patients.

Results:
A total of 11 patients (7 boys, 4 girls) were included. The average age at index surgery was 8.2 (6 to 10) years. Dual MCGR was implanted in 8 patients. In 3 patients, because of curve rigidity and inability of apex to be brought into the stable zone, apical fusion with gliding connectors (convexity) and a single MCGR (concavity) was preferred. Instrumentation included the pelvis in 9 and stopped at the lumbar spine (L3) in 2 patients at the index procedure. Average preoperative deformity of 81.8 degrees (66 to 115) decreased to 29 degrees (11 to 57) postoperatively and was 26 degrees at average 35 months (16 to 59). Pelvic obliquity of 20.9 degrees (11 to 30) decreased to 4.9 degrees (2 to 8) after index surgery and was 6.5 degrees (2 to 16) at the last follow-up. T1-S1 height of 329 mm (280 to 376) after index surgery increased to 356 mm (312 to 390) after 9.2 (4 to 20) outpatient lengthening. No neurologic, infectious, or implant-related complication was recorded. Distal adding-on deformity occurred in 2 patients without initial pelvic fixation.
One patient deceased secondary to pneumonia at 16 months after surgery.

Conclusions:
Short-term results indicate that MCGR may be a good option in SMA-associated collapsing spine deformity to reduce the burden of repetitive lengthening procedures. The authors recommend apical deformity control in the convex side in case of curve rigidity. In addition, including the pelvis in the instrumentation at index surgery is critical to prevent distal adding-on.

Level of Evidence:
Level IV—retrospective case series.
Hyperkalemia in heart failure
Authors: Sidhu Kiran , Sanjanwala Rohan , Zieroth Shelley 
Published: December 2019

Purpose of review
Hyperkalemia is increasingly prevalent in the heart failure population as more people live with heart failure and comorbid conditions such as diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Furthermore, renin–angiotensin–aldosterone (RAAS) inhibitors are a key component of clinical therapy in these populations. Until now, we have not had any reliable or tolerable therapies for treatment of hyperkalemia resulting in inability to implement or achieve target doses of RAAS inhibition. This review will focus on two new therapies for hyperkalemia: patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC).

Recent findings
Patiromer and SZC have been studied in heart failure and both agents have demonstrated the ability to maintain normokalemia for extended periods of time with improved side effect profiles than existing potassium binders such as sodium polystyrene sulfate, though no direct comparisons have occurred. SZC has also shown promise in the treatment of acute hyperkalemia with its quick onset of action.

Summary
Patiromer and SZC will be useful adjuncts in the clinical care of heart failure patients with hyperkalemia. These agents will allow clinicians to maintain patients on RAAS inhibitors and uptitrate their guideline directed medical therapy to target doses without the additional concern for recurrent hyperkalemia and its untoward effects.
SUPPLEMENTAL SCLERAL BUCKLE IN THE ERA OF SMALL INCISION VITRECTOMY AND WIDE-ANGLE VIEWING SYSTEMS
Authors: Tabandeh Homayoun , Khachaturov Andranik , Rezaei Kourous A. , Boyer David S. 
Published: December 2019

Purpose:
To evaluate trends and outcomes of scleral buckle as adjunct to pars plana vitrectomy for management of retinal detachment.

Methods:
Retrospective case series including 300 consecutive cases of retinal detachment that underwent pars plana vitrectomy. The series was divided into three consecutive groups: Group A (first 100 cases), Group B (second 100 cases), and Group C (third 100 cases).

Results:
Three hundred eyes of 289 patients, mean age 61.0 years, were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 31.3 months for Group A, 28.5 months for Group B, and 12.0 months for Group C (P < 0.001). The baseline mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution equivalent was 1.58 for Group A, 1.31 for Group B, and 1.33 for Group C (P = 0.15). Supplemental scleral buckle was performed in 53% of Group A, 35% of Group B, and 17% of Group C (P < 0.001). Single surgery reattachment rate was 93% for Group A, 95% for Group B, and 97% for Group C (P = 0.48). The mean change in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution equivalent was −0.84 for Group A, −0.81 for Group B, and −0.71 for Group C (P = 0.50).

Conclusion:
The study demonstrates decreasing use of supplemental scleral buckle in the era of small gauge vitrectomy surgery and wide-angle viewing systems while the outcomes remain stable. Selective, less frequent use of supplemental scleral buckle is compatible with good anatomical and visual outcomes.
Correlation Between Electrocochleographic Changes During Surgery and Hearing Outcome in Cochlear Implant Recipients: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Dalbert Adrian , Rohner Peter , Roosli Christof , Veraguth Dorothe , Huber Alexander , Pfiffner Flurin 
Published: December 2019

Objective:
To determine the correlation between intraoperative changes of electrocochleography (ECochG) responses and traumatic cochlear implant insertions as well as postoperative hearing loss.

Methods:
ECochG, radiological, and audiological data were collected prospectively in a cochlear implant recipient with otosclerosis and assumed cochlear trauma during electrode insertion. A systematic review was conducted within PubMed-NCBI, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library using the terms “Cochlear implant” and “Electrocochleography.” Original studies that evaluated intraoperative ECochG responses and postoperative hearing loss were selected and analyzed.

Results:
The case report revealed a drop of intra- and extracochlear ECochG signals during electrode insertion. The postoperative computed tomography scan suggested a scalar dislocation. There was no measurable hearing 4 weeks after surgery. Within the database search, nine articles met the inclusion criteria. All were case series reports (range from 2 to 36 subjects) with a total of 173 subjects. Due to the heterogeneous data, a meta-analysis was unfeasible.

Conclusions:
In concordance with some findings in the literature, the presented case report suggests that a drop of intra- and extracochlear ECochG signals during the insertion of the electrode array is associated with cochlear trauma and postoperative hearing loss in some cases. However, the literature is inconclusive regarding the correlation between intraoperative changes of the ECochG signals and postoperative hearing preservation. More studies investigating the correlation are needed to provide sufficient data.
A Neonatal Unit Experience with Empiric Antibiotics for Late-onset Neonatal Sepsis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Al-Mouqdad Mountasser Mohammad , Egunsola Oluwaseun , Ali Sheraz , Asfour Suzan Suahil 
Published: December 2019

Background:
Neonatal sepsis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality and warrants the immediate start of appropriate empiric treatment. Thus, this study compared the effectiveness of the 2 antibiotic regimens (cloxacillin–amikacin or cefotaxime–ampicillin) among neonates with late-onset neonatal sepsis.

Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study comparing mortality between 2 treatment cohorts of very low birth weight neonates with late-onset sepsis, who had received amikacin–cloxacillin or cefotaxime–ampicillin between January 2014 and December 2017. There were 27 neonates in each treatment arm after 1:1 propensity score matching. Univariate analyses (Chi-square and independent t tests, where appropriate) were performed to determine the association between variables. We determined the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality using the Cox regression model.

Results:
We identified a total of 132 neonates from the hospital’s record. We included 27 neonates each in the amikacin–cloxacillin and cefotaxime–ampicillin groups. Intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, birth weight, and gestational age were significantly associated with mortality (P < 0.05). The risk of mortality was significantly higher in neonates receiving empiric cefotaxime and ampicillin than those receiving amikacin and cloxacillin (hazard ratio: 2.91, 95% confidence interval: 1.17–7.30, P = 0.023).

Conclusions:
In our center, amikacin–cloxacillin combination therapy was associated with lower mortality in very low birth weight neonates with late-onset sepsis compared with cefotaxime–ampicillin therapy.
Larval thermal characteristics of multiple ixodid ticks underlie their range dynamics
Authors: Fieler Alicia M. , Rosendale Andrew J. , Farrow David W. , Dunlevy Megan D. , Davies Benjamin , Oyen Kennan , Benoit Joshua B. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractTemperature is a major factor that impacts tick populations by limiting geographic range of different species. Little is known about the thermal characteristics of these pests outside of a few studies on survival related to thermal tolerance. In this study, thermal tolerance limits, thermal preference, impact of temperature on metabolic rate, and temperature-activity dynamics were examined in larvae for six species of ixodid ticks. Tolerance of low temperatures ranged from −15 to −24°C withDermacentor andersonisurviving at the lowest temperatures. High temperature survival ranged from 41 to 47 °C, withRhipicephalus sanguineushaving the highest upper lethal limit.Ixodes scapularisshowed the lowest survival at both low and high temperatures. Thermal preference temperatures were tested from 0-41°C.D. variabilisexhibited a significant distribution of individuals in the lower temperatures, while the majority of other species gathered around 20-30°C. Activity was measured from 10-60°C, and the highest activity was observed in most species was near 30°C. Metabolic rate was the highest for most species around 40°C. Both activity and metabolic rate dropped dramatically at temperatures below 10°C and above 50°C. In summary, tick species vary greatly in their thermal characteristics, and our results will be critical to predict distribution of these ectoparasites with changing climates.
scCAT-seq:single-cell identification and quantification of mRNA isoforms by cost-effective short-read sequencing of cap and tail
Authors: Hu Youjin , Zhong Jiawei , Xiao Yuhua , Xing Zheng , Sheu Katherine , Fan Shuxin , An Qin , Qiu Yuanhui , Zheng Yingfeng , Liu Xialin , Fan Guoping , Liu Yizhi 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe differences in transcription start sites (TSS) and transcription end sites (TES) among gene isoforms can affect the stability, localization, and translation efficiency of mRNA. Isoforms also allow a single gene different functions across various tissues and cells However, methods for efficient genome-wide identification and quantification of RNA isoforms in single cells are still lacking. Here, we introduce single cell Cap And Tail sequencing (scCAT-seq). In conjunction with a novel machine learning algorithm developed for TSS/TES characterization, scCAT-seq can demarcate transcript boundaries of RNA transcripts, providing an unprecedented way to identify and quantify single-cell full-length RNA isoforms based on short-read sequencing. Compared with existing long-read sequencing methods, scCAT-seq has higher efficiency with lower cost. Using scCAT-seq, we identified hundreds of previously uncharacterized full-length transcripts and thousands of alternative transcripts for known genes, quantitatively revealed cell-type specific isoforms with alternative TSSs/TESs in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, mature oocytes and ageing oocytes, and generated the first atlas of the non-human primate cornea. The approach described here can be widely adapted to other short-read or long-read methods to improve accuracy and efficiency in assessing RNA isoform dynamics among single cells.
Male accessory gland factors increased sex pheromone titres in the glands ofSpodoptera liturafemale moths by inhibiting calling behavior
Authors: Xu Jin , Shi Min-Rui , Fu Da-Ying , Yu Hong , Chen Peng , Ye Hui 
Published: December 2019

AbstractMoths are the most widely studied example of pheromones in animals. However, little is known about the mechanism of intrasexual and mating-related intersexual regulation of pheromone production and release in female moths. Our previous studies inSpodoptera liturafound that mating induced a higher sex pheromone titre in the pheromone gland (PG) and mating or male accessory gland (MAG) extract suppressed female calling behavior. We therefore hypothesize that the inhibition of female calling behavior by mating or MAG factors likely suppresses the release of sex pheromones and thus results in a higher pheromone titre in the PG. To test this hypothesis, in the present study, we introduced an artificial calling behavior suppression treatment by gently knocking on and shaking the testing boxes contained moths once every 10 minutes. Results show that this treatment significantly increased pheromone titres in virgin or saline injected virgin females, and the increase rates are similar to those of mating and MAG extract treated ones. These results have suggested that the increase of sex pheromone titer in the female PG after mating inS. liturais due to the inhibition of female calling behavior by MAG factors. Moreover, results of this study also suggest that female calling behavior is positively correlated to pheromone release and likewise, the calling behavior and sex pheromone release inS. liturafemales are directly under the neural control, and modulated by molecular and environmental factors.
The data dilemma: how availability can threaten the competitive advantage of data-based firms
Authors: Tsvetkov Nikolai , Chekanov Alexander 
Published: December 2019

Purpose
This paper aims to expand knowledge on strategy and business model transformation by exploring how the increased data availability can threaten the competitive positioning of data-based firms.

Design/methodology/approach
The study uses two longitudinal cases design. The data include a review of 270 business acquisitions performed by IBM and Yahoo! between 1995 and 2018 relying on publicly available documentation, corporate annual reports, shareholders presentations and press releases.

Findings
The study provides insights into how the availability of data can affect business models and the competitive advantage of data-based firms. Successful business model transformation in data-based firms appear to be contingent on dual-purpose mergers and acquisitions (M&As), oriented toward data and data-processing activities.

Research limitations/implications
Inductive case studies yield results that require quantitative validation. The insights on business model transformation and M&As from this study were obtained within the context of data-intensive firms.

Practical implications
When formulating a growth strategy through M&As, strategists need to consider whether the current state of their competitive positioning requires single purpose acquisitions (e.g. data or data-processing capabilities) or dual-purpose acquisitions.

Originality/value
As data becomes a commoditized asset, further research and guidance are needed to assess the impact of this phenomenon on data-based business models. This study fulfills an identified need to gain insights into the relationship between business model transformation and M&A activity.
Exposure to and usage of e-banking channels
Authors: Inegbedion Henry , Inegbedion Emmanuel Edo , Osifo Samuel Jesuorobo , Eze Sunday C. , Ayeni Adebanji , Akintimehin Olamide 
Published: December 2019

Purpose
Emphasis of previous research on e-banking has been on factors that influence its adoption or constraints to the adoption or the extent to which customer awareness influences its adoption. This study investigated “Exposure to/usage of e-banking channels: Implications for customer awareness and attitude in Nigeria”. The purpose of this paper is to determine the extent to which consumers’ exposure to and usage of e-banking channels influence their awareness and attitude towards e-banking in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach
The study used the quantitative research design; specifically, the conclusive research design was used and data collection was done through the survey method. The population of the study consisted of the customers of EcoBank, First bank and Zenith bank in Edo, Kogi and Kwara states of Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit the desired data from 480 respondents selected from 30 branches of 3 banks in two states. One sample t test was used to test for significance of the usage of e-banking channels to customers’ awareness and attitude towards e-banking. Subsequently, regression analysis was performed to determine the predictive power of the e-banking channels.

Findings
Customers’ exposure to and usage of ATM, internet banking and mobile banking has significant influence on consumers’ attitude towards e-banking in Nigeria. In view of the findings, a modified model of customer usage and attitude towards e-banking in Nigeria is proposed.

Research limitations/implications
The customer’s inability to exercise absolute right on the banking option to use at all times and the non-inclusion of other channels of e-banking whose usage can influence consumers’ awareness and attitude towards e-banking.

Practical implications
The need for financial institutions, especially banks, to expose their customers to e-banking channels to demystify their fears as well as increase their awareness and thus influence their attitude to e-banking.

Social implications
Exposure of bank customers to e-banking will reduce cash transactions and thus help to significantly reduce social vices associated with physical cash, especially armed robbery.

Originality/value
The work is a departure from previous studies because it is the only one that has emphazised exposure to e-banking as a solution to awareness creation and positive attitude of customers. Its value lies in its potential to make e-banking user friendly in no distance time.
A finite‐element time‐domain forward‐modelling algorithm for transient electromagnetics excited by grounded‐wire sources
Authors: Li Jianhui , Hu Xiangyun , Cai Hongzhu , Liu Yajun 
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACTA three‐dimensional finite‐element time‐domain forward‐modelling algorithm is developed to simulate transient electromagnetics excited by grounded‐wire sources. The main advantage of this finite‐element time‐domain algorithm is that full transmitting‐current waveforms and complex‐shaped sources resulting from topography can be directly dealt with in this algorithm. The models used to test this algorithm include a homogeneous half‐space model, a stratified‐medium model, the model of a complex conductor at a vertical contact and the Ovoid Zone massive sulfide deposit at Voisey's Bay, Canada. The homogeneous half‐space model is used to determine the truncation boundary for a computational domain, and to compare with the electromagnetic responses excited by step‐off, step‐on and direct current waveforms. For the stratified‐medium model, results demonstrate that full transmitting waveforms have strong effects on the observed electromagnetic responses. The model of a complex conductor at a vertical contact is designed for the grounded electrical source airborne transient electromagnetic method and is also used to examine the effectiveness of the broadside and inline configurations for such a vertical, thin plate embedded in the subsurface. The area of the Ovoid Zone massive sulfide deposit possesses non‐negligible topography, the effects of which on the shapes of the grounded‐wire sources must be taken into account when implementing the finite‐element time‐domain solver. The results show that both the broadside and inline electromagnetic responses are strongly affected by the massive conductive ore body.
Cross‐listings and dividend size and stability: evidence from China
Authors: Cheng Zijian , Cullinan Charles P. , Liu Zhangxin (Frank) , Zhang Junrui 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWe investigate the relationship between cross‐listings and dividend policy. We find that Chinese cross‐listed firms have lower and more stable dividends than their non‐cross‐listed peers, and that dividends become more stable the longer a company has been cross‐listed. We also find the strength of the cross‐listing/dividend policy relationship varies based on the market where the shares are cross‐listed. The strength of the relationship varies from B‐shares (least strong) to Hong Kong shares (stronger) to American Depository Receipts (strongest). Our results indicate cross‐listings may influence both dividend size and stability, and that this influence can vary by the type of cross‐listing.
The law and economics of Canada's WTO litigation contesting U.S. country‐of‐origin labeling (COOL)
Authors: Sumner Daniel A. , Zuijdwijk Ton 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWe explain the interplay of law and economics in the successful WTO challenge by Canada of U.S. mandatory country‐of‐origin labeling (COOL) measures for beef and pork, which hinged on origin of livestock used in U.S. meat production. Canada mounted a successful legal and economic strategy to convince WTO adjudicating bodies that the United States had violated specific WTO provisions. Canada's economic evidence shows that through costs of segregation the COOL measure harmed the competitive position of Canadian cattle and hogs in the U.S. market. Economic evidence was built into the strategy and cited by the WTO Panels in support of their legal findings that the COOL measure violated U.S. obligations under WTO agreements. Canada was awarded rights to more than one billion Canadian dollars in retaliation and the United States responded by eliminating the offending COOL measure. The COOL case demonstrates how economic and econometric evidence can be used in complex dispute settlement proceedings dealing with technical trade barriers. Economics is especially valuable in the initial stage of framing the effects at issue, in the intermediate stages of documenting empirical causation and in the final stage of litigation, which was to calculate and defend the amount of retaliation.