bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Individual variation in dispersal and fecundity increases rates of spatial spread
Authors: Schreiber Sebastian J , Beckman Noelle G 
Published: May 2020

AbstractDispersal and fecundity are two fundamental traits underlying the spread of populations. Using integral difference equation models, we examine how individual variation in these fundamental traits and the heritability of these traits influence rates of spatial spread of populations along a one-dimensional transect. Using a mixture of analytic and numerical methods, we show that individual variation in dispersal rates increases spread rates and the more heritable this variation, the greater the increase. In contrast, individual variation in lifetime fecundity only increases spread rates when some of this variation is heritable. The highest increases in spread rates occur when variation in dispersal positively co-varies with fecundity. Our results highlight the importance of estimating individual variation in dispersal rates, dispersal syndromes in which fecundity and dispersal co-vary positively and heritability of these traits to predict population rates of spatial spread.
Development and Validation of a Clinical Grading Scale to Assess the Vulvar Region: The Vulvar Architecture Severity Scale
Authors: Almadori Aurora , Zenner Nicole , Boyle Deborah , Swale Victoria , Reid Wendy , Maclean Allan , Butler Peter E M 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Background
The vulva is composed of aesthetic units that can be affected differently by vulvar conditions. A reliable, comprehensive, and quick-to-use clinical scoring system is required to assess the disease extent in the vulvar area.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to develop and validate a grading scale based on the aesthetic unit principle to evaluate the extent of vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS).

Methods
After reviewing photographs of 100 patients affected by VLS, the authors targeted the aesthetic units most frequently affected. The disease signs were recorded and graded in 4 levels of severity (none, mild, moderate, severe) taking into account the vulvar architecture and skin involvement. To validate the scale, 14 observers were asked to apply it to photographs of 25 VLS patients on 2 different occasions. Intra- and inter-observer reliabilities were determined employing Pearson’s and intraclass correlation coefficients.

Results
A 6-region, 4-point grading system was designed and identified as the Vulvar Architecture Severity Scale (VASS). In all 6 areas, the Pearson’s r was greater than 0.9 (mean, 0.994; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.992), indicating that the intra-observer reliability of the VASS was consistent over time (P &lt; 0.001). Intraclass correlation at time 1 was 0.928 (95% CI = 0.910, 0.943) and at time 2 was 0.944 (95% CI = 0.931, 0.996), indicating a high reliability level among different observers.

Conclusions
The VASS is a reliable scale to assess the severity of VLS, and it might be considered as an outcome measure in future VLS trials.

Level of Evidence: 4
The Parkinson’s Disease Comprehensive Response (PDCORE): a composite approach integrating three standard outcome measures
Authors: Luz Matthias , Whone Alan , Bassani Niccolò , Wyse Richard K , Stebbins Glenn T , Mohr Erich 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
There is an increasing need for improved endpoints to assess clinical trial effects in Parkinson’s disease. We propose the Parkinson’s Disease Comprehensive Response as a novel weighted composite endpoint integrating changes measured in three established Parkinson’s outcomes, including: OFF state Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Motor Examination scores; Motor Experiences of Daily Living scores; and total good-quality ON time per day. The data source for the initial development of the composite described herein was a recent Phase II trial of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. A wide range of clinically derived relative weights was assessed to normalize for differentially scoring base rates with each endpoint component. The Parkinson’s disease comprehensive response, in contrast to examining practically defined OFF state Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Motor Examination scores alone, showed stability over 40 weeks in placebo patients, and all 432 analyses in this permutation exercise yielded significant differences in favour of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. The findings were consistent with results obtained employing three different global statistical test methodologies and with patterns of intra-patient change. Based on our detailed analyses, we conclude it worth prospectively evaluating the clinical utility, validity and regulatory feasibility of using clinically supported final Parkinson’s disease comprehensive response formulas (for both the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale-based and Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale-based versions) in future disease-modifying Parkinson’s trials. Whilst the data source employed in the initial development of this weighted composite score is from a recent Phase II trial of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, we wish to stress that the results are not described to provide post hoc evidence of the efficacy of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor but rather are presented to further the debate of how current regulatory approved rating scales may be combined to address some of the recognized limitations of using individual scales in isolation.
Disease and Treatment Patterns Among Patients With Pouch-related Conditions in a Cohort of Large Tertiary Care Inflammatory Bowel Disease Centers in the United States
Authors: Barnes Edward L , Raffals Laura , Long Millie D , Syal Gaurav , Kayal Maia , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin , Cohen Benjamin , Pekow Joel , Deepak Parakkal , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Herfarth Hans H , Sandler Robert S 
Published: May 2020

AbstractBackgroundGaps exist in our understanding of the clinical course of pouch-related disorders.MethodsWe evaluated baseline disease activity and longitudinal treatment patterns among patients with inflammatory conditions of the pouch.ResultsAmong 468 patients with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA), 94 (20%) had acute pouchitis, 96 (21%) had chronic pouchitis, and 192 (41%) had Crohn disease of the pouch. Following an IPAA, 38% of patients were treated with a biologic and 11% underwent inflammatory bowel disease- or bowel-related surgery.ConclusionsTreatment patterns after IPAA indicate that pouch-related disorders have a significant impact on individual patients and the healthcare system.
Novel coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) associated sinus node dysfunction: a case series
Authors: Peigh Graham , Leya Marysa V , Baman Jayson R , Cantey Eric P , Knight Bradley P , Flaherty James D 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Background
Novel coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. To date, there have not been reports of sinus node dysfunction (SND) associated with COVID-19. This case series describes clinical characteristics, potential mechanisms, and short-term outcomes of COVID-19 patients who experience de novo SND.

Case summary
We present two cases of new-onset SND in patients recently diagnosed with COVID-19. Patient 1 is a 70-year-old female with no major past medical history who was intubated for acute hypoxic respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19 pneumonia and developed new-onset sinus bradycardia without a compensatory increase in heart rate in response to relative hypotension. Patient 2 is an 81-year-old male with a past medical history of an ascending aortic aneurysm, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnoea who required intubation for COVID-19-induced acute hypoxic respiratory failure and exhibited new-onset sinus bradycardia followed by numerous episodes of haemodynamically significant accelerated idioventricular rhythm. Two weeks following the onset of SND, both patients remain in sinus bradycardia.

Discussion
COVID-19-associated SND has not previously been described. The potential mechanisms for SND in patients with COVID-19 include myocardial inflammation or direct viral infiltration. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 should be monitored closely for the development of bradyarrhythmia and haemodynamic instability.
Toward an Understanding of the Welfare Effects of Nudges: Evidence from a Field Experiment in the Workplace
Authors: Bulte Erwin , List John A , van Soest Daan 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Social scientists have recently explored how framing of gains and losses affects productivity. We conducted a field experiment in peri-urban Uganda, and compared output levels across 1,000 workers over isomorphic tasks and incentives, framed as either losses or gains. We find that loss aversion can be leveraged to increase the productivity of labour. The estimated welfare costs of using the loss contract are quite modest—perhaps because the loss contract is viewed as a (soft) commitment device.
Undoing Gender with Institutions: Lessons from the German Division and Reunification
Authors: Lippmann Quentin , Georgieff Alexandre , Senik Claudia 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Using the 41-year division of Germany as a natural experiment, we show that the German Democratic Republic’s gender-equal institutions created a culture that has undone the male breadwinner norm and its consequences. Since reunification, East Germany still differs from West Germany not only because of its higher female contribution to household income, but also because East German women can earn more than their husbands without having to increase their number of housework hours, put their marriage at risk or withdraw from the labour market. By contrast, the norm of higher male income, and its consequences, are still prevalent in West Germany.
Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of food-associated Lactobacillus plantarum isolates for potential probiotic activities
Authors: Prete Roberta , Long Sarah L , Joyce Susan A , Corsetti Aldo 
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT
Lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus plantarum, has been applied, for centuries, for food and drink fermentations. Given the benefits associated with fermented products, Lb. plantarum strains have captured considerable industrial and scientific interest, so that they are included as fundamental components of functional foods. Indeed, some strains are marketed as probiotics. In the present study, food- and gut-associated Lb. plantarum isolates were genetically characterized by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and phenotypically characterized for properties that could influence their probiotic potential. MLST and phylogenetic analysis stratified 22 Lb. plantarum isolates into six lineages. The isolates were further phenotypically characterized by an in vitro assay to assess their potential gut community influence via a limited number of assays including acidification activity, strain displacement activity and their intrinsic range of antibiotic resistance. Given growing recognition of the benefits of fermented foods, and the prevalence of Lb. plantarum in these applications, this study highlights analysis of a subset of preliminary important strain-specific features. These features are of interest to all stakeholders, to inform isolate comparison and selection for current functional food associations, and that can serve as a basis for future strain and food-microbe fermentation product development.
Voter Turnout and City Performance: Evidence from Italian Municipalities
Authors: Lo Prete Anna , Revelli Federico 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Using data on mayoral elections in large Italian cities during the 2000s, we investigate whether and how voter turnout affects city performance across a number of dimensions. To address the issue of voter turnout endogeneity and identify the transmission mechanism, we exploit exogenous variation in participation rates in mayoral elections due to anticipated shocks (concurrence of local and national elections) and unanticipated shocks (bad weather on the day of the election) to the cost of voting. The results consistently point to a negative impact of voter turnout rates on indicators of urban environmental performance, life quality, and administrative efficiency. Interestingly, though, we find that only anticipated shocks to turnout affect the quality of elected mayors measured on a number of competence dimensions, compatibly with the hypothesis of a selection mechanism whereby parties choose candidates to maximize their chances of winning the elections based on their expectations on voter turnout rates (JEL D72, H72, C26).
Anterior tibialis artery pseudoaneurysm after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in the proximal tibia: a case report
Authors: Beaton Comulada David , Hernández-Rodríguez Saul , Rivera Lenny , Zierenberg Charles , Lojo-Sojo Luis 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Tibial plateau fractures are common fractures associated with high-energy trauma. The treatment of these fractures remains a challenge today. Recent management of fractures has moved from open surgery toward minimally invasive surgery to reduce complications and improve functional outcomes. Nevertheless, such a minimalistic approach makes visualization of neurovascular structures difficult, placing them at risk. We report the case of a 39-year-old male who developed a pseudoaneurysm of the anterior tibial artery following minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of the right proximal tibia. Diagnosis was made through noninvasive duplex ultrasound and was referred to endovascular service. Understanding of the anatomy of the surgical site is vital to minimize complications. In addition, proper postsurgical patient evaluation is important to monitor the insurgence of such complications.
Racial demographics and COVID-19 confirmed cases and deaths: a correlational analysis of 2886 US counties
Authors: Mahajan Uma V , Larkins-Pettigrew Margaret 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Background
Recent news reports state that racial minority groups, such as African–Americans, are experiencing a greater COVID-19 burden, as measured by confirmed cases and deaths. Limited racial data is available on a national level.

Methods
We conducted the first nationwide analysis to examine COVID-19 and race on a county level. We obtained datasets on COVID-19 cases and deaths, and racial population totals, by US county. We examined if correlations exist between the racial percentages and percentages of confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths by county.

Results
A positive correlation existed between percentages of African–Americans living in a county and who have COVID-19 (r = 0.254, P &lt; 0.0001), who have died from COVID-19 (r = 0.268, P &lt; 0.0001), and case mortality (r = 0.055, P = 0.003). Positive correlations also existed between percentages of Asian–Americans living in counties and these factors. Negative correlations existed between percentages of Whites living in counties and these factors.

Conclusions
A weak, albeit very significant, positive relationship exists between the percentage of African–Americans living in a county and the percentage of COVID-19 confirmed cases, confirmed deaths and case mortality in the county. This is in support of many city and statewide analyses, and we urge for targeted resources towards work that further examine these racial associations.
Hydrogen gas (XEN) inhalation ameliorates airway inflammation in asthma and COPD patients
Authors: Wang S -T , Bao C , He Y , Tian X , Yang Y , Zhang T , Xu K -F 
Published: May 2020

Summary

Background
Hydrogen was proven to have anti-oxidative and anti-inflammation effects to various diseases.

Aim
We wish to investigate the acute effects of inhaled hydrogen on airway inflammation in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Design
Prospective study.

Methods
In total, 2.4% hydrogen containing steam mixed gas (XEN) was inhaled once for 45 min in 10 patients with asthma and 10 patients with COPD. The levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, interferon-γ, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and so on in peripheral blood and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) before and after ‘XEN’ inhalation were measured.

Results
45 minutes ‘XEN’ inhalation once decreased monocyte chemotactic protein 1 level in both COPD (564.70–451.51 pg/mL, P = 0.019) and asthma (386.39–332.76 pg/mL, P = 0.033) group, while decreased IL-8 level only in asthma group (5.25–4.49 pg/mL, P = 0.023). The level of EBC soluble cluster of differentiation-40 ligand in COPD group increased after inhalation (1.07–1.16 pg/mL, P = 0.031), while IL-4 and IL-6 levels in EBC were significantly lower after inhalation in the COPD (0.80–0.64 pg/mL, P = 0.025) and asthma (0.06–0.05 pg/mL, P = 0.007) group, respectively.

Conclusions
A single inhalation of hydrogen for 45 min attenuated inflammatory status in airways in patients with asthma and COPD.
A telehealth program to perform medical screening examinations
Authors: Laghezza Matthew , Sharma Rahul , Hsu Hanson , Greenwald Peter , Sullivan Robert , Eid Dona Alma Bou 
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT
The importance of a timely medical screening examination on ED throughput, efficiency, and patient safety cannot be underestimated. This article describes a telemedicine program based on the provider in triage model that uses physician assistants and NPs to improve patient door-to-diagnostic evaluation times in the ED.
Naloxone-induced Peripheral Edema: A Case Report
Authors: Taylor Shawn R. , Gustafson Benjamin D. , Hough Daniel S. 
Published: May 2020

Introduction:
Despite a low bioavailability, sublingual naloxone does reach systemic circulation as evidenced by pharmacokinetic studies. As observed in clinical practice, patients receiving sublingual naloxone in combination with buprenorphine occasionally experience adverse reactions that resolve when naloxone alone is discontinued suggesting potential for naloxone-induced reactions. According to postmarketing data, peripheral edema is one of the most common adverse drug events related to sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone.

Case:
A case of potential naloxone-induced peripheral edema in a 69-year-old woman. The patient experienced peripheral edema over the course of several months after the initiation of sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone despite numerous attempts at pharmacological diuresis. Within 1 month of omitting naloxone from her regimen and continuing buprenorphine monotherapy, the patient’s edema resolved.

Conclusions:
Given pharmacokinetic studies and evidence of systemic absorption, adverse drug reactions from sublingual naloxone are possible. Mindfulness of appropriate candidates for combination sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone formulations and monitoring for naloxone-induced peripheral edema is prudent.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Prolonged Pregabalin Administration Before and After Surgery in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair
Authors: Tobias Alexandro F. , Moura Ed C.R. , Honda Claudio A.d.O. , Pereira Emanuel C. , de Oliveira Caio M.B. , Leal Plinio d.C. , Sakata Rioko K. 
Published: May 2020

Context and Objective:
Reconstruction of the knee ligament causes postoperative pain and delayed rehabilitation.

Objective:
The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a prolonged preoperative and postoperative pregabalin use for arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament repair.

Materials and Methods:
Group 1 (N=25) patients received pregabalin 75 mg/d, and group 2 (N=25) received placebo, 7 days before and 7 days after surgery. Spinal anesthesia was performed using 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine (15 mg). The following were evaluated: pain intensity immediately after the surgery, and 12 hours, 24 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 2 months after the surgery using a Numerical Rating Scale; dose of postoperative supplementary analgesic for 2 months; time to first analgesic requirement; and side effects during 2 months. For supplementation, the participants received 1 g dipyrone; if there was no pain control, 100 mg ketoprofen was administered; if there was no effect, 100 mg tramadol was administered; and if there was no pain control, 5 mg intravenous morphine was administered until pain control.

Results:
There was no difference between the groups with regard to pain intensity (P=0.077). In the pregabalin group, morphine consumption was lower at 12 hours (P=0.039) and 24 hours (P=0.044) after surgery, and the consumption of tramadol and ketoprofen was lower 24 hours after surgery. There was no significant difference in the incidence of nausea and vomiting. Dizziness was higher in the pregabalin group (group 1=12 patients; group 2=3 patients; P=0.005).

Discussion:
A prolonged preoperative and postoperative pregabalin prescription for anterior cruciate ligament repair decreased the need for supplementary analgesics during the first 24 postoperative hours but increased dizziness.
Psychological Predictors of Perceived Age and Chronic Pain Impact in Individuals With and Without Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Booker Staja Q. , Sibille Kimberly T. , Terry Ellen L. , Cardoso Josue S. , Goodin Burel R. , Sotolongo Adriana , Staud Roland , Redden David T. , Bradley Laurence A. , Fillingim Roger B. , Bartley Emily J. 
Published: May 2020

Objective:
Chronological age is a risk factor in chronic pain; however, aging research supports the premise that physical and psychological health may better predict perceived age. Given the lack of evidence on perceived age in the context of chronic pain, the current study presents novel findings about the relationship between perceived age, chronic pain impact, and psychological function in adults with and without knee osteoarthritis.

Methods:
This secondary analysis was part of an ongoing multisite observational cohort study to understand the progression of knee pain and disability. Community-dwelling adults (N=227) ages 45+ completed measures of trait resilience, trait positive and negative affect, pain catastrophizing, subjective perceptions of age, and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale.

Results:
On average, participants reported feeling 10 years younger than their chronological age; however, this effect was attenuated in individuals reporting high-impact pain. Lower perceived age was associated with lower pain impact (low pain/low disability), while higher perceived age correlated with higher pain impact (high pain/high disability) and more adverse psychological effects. Using hierarchical linear regression, high-impact pain and positive affect emerged as statistically significant predictors of perceived age, whereas no differences were observed among trait resilience, negative affect, or pain catastrophizing.

Discussion:
These findings highlight the importance of a biopsychosocial approach in understanding the intersection between psychological and physical factors associated with chronic pain. Addressing negative self-perceptions of aging, while simultaneously augmenting positive affect, through psychological therapies may mitigate pain and disability.
Conceptually Redefining Neonatal Palliative Care
Authors: Kain Victoria J. , Chin Susan D. 
Published: May 2020

Background:
First defined in 2002 by Catlin and Carter, neonatal palliative care (NPC) is a relatively new model of care in neonatal pediatrics, first appearing in the medical literature in the early 1980s.

Purpose:
The purpose of this article is to suggest a conceptual definition of NPC that encompasses all the essential concepts as a way of moving NPC forward by having a consistent approach.

Methods:
Following a review of the NPC literature, a thematic analysis as a method for identifying, analyzing, and interpreting patterns of meaning in the definitions (“themes”) within the literature was undertaken.

Findings:
The major themes identified included philosophies of care, support, culture and spirituality, the team, and clinical management.

Implications for Research:
At the heart of NPC is the primacy of maintaining quality of life, while providing ethical and humane care that supports a “good death.” The extensive elements presented in this article are considered essential to a comprehensive and conceptual definition of NPC proposed here.