bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Heart murmurs in apparently healthy cats caused by iatrogenic dynamic right ventricular outflow tract obstruction
Authors: Ferasin Luca , Ferasin Heidi , Kilkenny Eoin 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackgroundHeart murmurs are detected commonly in apparently healthy cats during routine physical examination, and Doppler echocardiography ultimately is required to identify the source of flow turbulence causing the murmur. However, in some cases, the origin of the murmur cannot be identified on echocardiographic examination, even by experienced clinicians. The application of gentle pressure with the ultrasound transducer against the chest wall of a cat can induce temporary narrowing of the mid‐right ventricular (RV) lumen, causing blood flow turbulence even in the absence of cardiac abnormalities.Objectives/HypothesesTo evaluate the effect of pressure of the ultrasound transducer against the chest wall of cats during echocardiography (provocative testing) on RV blood flow. The main hypothesis is that provocative testing can increase RV outflow velocity and cause flow turbulence. The second hypothesis is that the effect of this maneuver is independent of changes in heart rate during testing.AnimalsSixty‐one client‐owned, apparently healthy cats with heart murmurs on physical examination.MethodsRetrospective review of echocardiographic examinations of 723 cats presented for investigation of a heart murmur.ResultsOutflow systolic velocity increased from 1.05 ± 0.26 to 1.94 ± 0.51 m/s during provocative testing (P < .0001); no correlation was found between RV outflow peak velocity and heart rate during provocative testing (P = .34; r = 0.1237).Conclusions and Clinical RelevanceRight ventricular outflow tract obstruction and associated heart murmur can be iatrogenically induced in apparently healthy cats by increasing pressure on the right chest wall with an ultrasound probe.
Acceptance and use of a smartphone application in cirrhosis
Authors: Louissaint Jeremy , Lok Anna S. , Fortune Brett E. , Tapper Elliot B. 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackground and AimsThe development of cirrhosis‐related smartphone applications for remote monitoring is increasing. Whether patients with cirrhosis will welcome such new technology, however, is uncertain.MethodsWe prospectively enrolled patients with cirrhosis (N = 102) to determine predictors of acceptance and utilization of a smartphone application for cirrhosis management using a 12‐item Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) survey. Patients were then shown the EncephalApp© and evaluated for their willingness to download and use the application.ResultsPatients had a median age of 61.3 years and 63.7% had a history of hepatic decompensation. Intention to use the hypothetical application was associated with perceived usefulness (β: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.3‐0.5) and the presence of a caregiver (β: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.2‐2.0). Of the eligible participants, 71% agreed to download the EncephalApp© and the decision was influenced by computer anxiety, behavioural intent, caregiver presence and disease state factors. Actual usage was 32% and not associated with baseline characteristics or the technology acceptance model.ConclusionsPatient acceptance of smartphone applications for the management of cirrhosis is high and related to their attitudes towards technology and the presence of a caregiver. However, usage was low. Future research must employ behavioural interventions to optimize uptake and utilization of remote monitoring technology.
Stationary underwater cameras assess more efficiently clear‐water mangrove fish assemblages: A comparison of non‐extractive techniques
Authors: Reis‐Filho José Amorim , Giarrizzo Tommaso , Barros Francisco 
Published: April 2020

AbstractResearch in aquatic ecology requires adequate sampling designs if the underlying processes that govern population and community dynamics are to be understood. Adequate sampling design is particularly important for organisms inhabiting environments such as mangroves. Thus, collecting quantitative ecological data remains a major challenge. Here, we analysed the structural and temporal dynamics of a tidal cycle and mangrove fish assemblages at 15 sites along the Brazilian central coast. Specifically, we used two non‐extractive sampling techniques, which included stationary underwater visual census (s‐UVC) and stationary underwater wide‐camera census (s‐UWC). Our results showed that by reducing potential observer effects, the s‐UWC protocol maximized fish counts, yielding more accurate and precise estimates. In contrast, although the s‐UVC technique was a useful approach, this technique did not yield precise density and richness estimates. Furthermore, the negative effect associated with the presence of an observer (i.e., diver) was a significant constraint to the observer‐based technique. Furthermore, the methods were more similar for the high tide samples and more divergent for the flood tide and ebb tide samples. These pronounced divergences among tidal periods allowed the application of a temporal mixed‐sampling protocol (i.e., unbalanced temporal samples) based on s‐UWC without the loss of statistical power. Methodological gains also were felt with a reduction in the costs associated with the presence of a trained observer in water and overcoming of constraints positively related to depth limitations. Overall, the s‐UWC protocol adequately captures species using different stages of the tide to enter the mangroves.
Early breastfeeding practices contribute to exclusive breastfeeding in Bangladesh, Vietnam and Ethiopia
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Hong , Kim Sunny S. , Tran Lan Mai , Menon Purnima , Frongillo Edward A. 
Published: April 2020

AbstractLimited evidence exists on the complex relationship among interventions, early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF), prelacteal feeding and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). We examined whether early breastfeeding practices are associated with EBF and how much improving EIBF and non‐prelacteal feeding contributes to increased prevalence of EBF. Survey data were collected in 2010 and 2014 as part of impact evaluations of Alive & Thrive (A&T) interventions to improve infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices in Bangladesh, Vietnam and Ethiopia. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine effects of interventions and early breastfeeding practices on EBF. Structural equation modelling quantified the direct and indirect effects of interventions (via improving EIBF and non‐prelacteal feeding) on EBF. Although breastfeeding is nearly universal in all three countries (≥98%), delayed initiation of breastfeeding is prevalent (>60%) and prelacteal feeding is common. EIBF alone was not associated with EBF, whereas non‐prelacteal feeding was associated with 1.6–3.5 higher odds of EBF. Intervention exposure affected breastfeeding practices in all three countries; these impacts were amplified among those who practiced EIBF or non‐prelacteal feeding [odds ratio (OR) = 11 and 27.5 in Bangladesh and 6.5 and 11.5 in Vietnam, respectively]. The paths through EIBF and non‐prelacteal feeding explained 13%–18% of the effect of the interventions on EBF. Early breastfeeding practices influence EBF, but interventions aimed only at the initiation and early days of breastfeeding will be inadequate to promote EBF. Social and behaviour change interventions should simultaneously target EIBF, non‐prelacteal feeding and EBF to support optimal breastfeeding practices.
PHILOSOPHY AND THE GOOD LIFE IN THEZHUANGZI
Authors: Liu Pengbo 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThe ancient Chinese text theZhuangziraises a mix of epistemological, psychological, and conceptual challenges against the value and usefulness of philosophical disputation. But instead of advocating the elimination of philosophy, it implicitly embraces a broader conception of philosophy, the goal of which is to engage us to reflect on our limitations, question things we take for granted, and better appreciate alternative perspectives and possibilities. Philosophy thus understood is compatible with a variety of methods and approaches: fictions, jokes, paradoxes, spiritual exercises, argument, disputation, and so on. Philosophical practices, on this view, also pave the way for an open‐minded, adaptive and flexible way of living that is at the core of the Zhuangist good life.
Development of zeaxanthin‐rich tomato fruit through genetic manipulations of carotenoid biosynthesis
Authors: Karniel Uri , Koch Amit , Zamir Dani , Hirschberg Joseph 
Published: April 2020

SummaryThe oxygenated carotenoid zeaxanthin provides numerous benefits to human health due to its antioxidant properties. Especially it is linked to protecting, together with the xanthophyll lutein, the retina in the human eye by filtering harmful blue light thus delaying the progression of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), the most prevalent cause of blindness in developed countries. Despite its high nutritional value, zeaxanthin is less available than other substantial carotenoids in our diet. To solve this shortage, we chose to develop a new food source that would contain a high concentration of natural zeaxanthin. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) was selected as the target plant since it is the second largest vegetable crop grown worldwide and its fruit characteristically synthesizes and accumulates a high concentration of carotenoids. We employed two genetic approaches in order to enhance zeaxanthin biosynthesis in tomato fruit: a transgenic metabolic engineering and classical genetic breeding. A nontransgenic tomato line, named ‘Xantomato’, was generated whose fruit accumulated zeaxanthin at a concentration of 39 μg/g fresh weight (or 577 μg/g dry weight), which comprised ca. 50% of total fruit carotenoids compared to zero in the wild type. This is the highest concentration of zeaxanthin reached in a primary crop. Xantomato can potentially increase zeaxanthin availability in the human diet and serve as raw material for industrial applications.
Human leukocyte antigen eplet mismatches and long‐term clinical outcomes in pediatric renal transplantation: A pragmatic, registry‐based study
Authors: Sypek Matthew P. , Hiho Steve , Cantwell Linda , Clayton Phil , Hughes Peter , Le Page Amelia K. , Kausman Joshua 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackgroundHLA epitope‐based matching offers the potential to improve immunological risk prediction and management in children receiving renal allografts; however, studies demonstrating the association between systems for defining epitope mismatches and clinical end‐points are lacking in this population.MethodsWe conducted a pragmatic, retrospective, registry‐based study of pediatric recipients of primary renal allografts in Victoria, Australia between 1990 and 2014 to determine the association between HLA EpMM and clinical outcomes including graft failure, re‐transplantation and dnDSA formation.ResultsA total of 196 patients were included in the analysis with a median age of 11 years. Median follow‐up period was 15 years during which time 108 (55%) primary grafts failed and 72 patients were re‐transplanted. HLA class I but not class II EpMM was a significant predictor of graft failure on univariate analysis but not in adjusted models. EpMM was associated with reduced likelihood of re‐transplantation in univariate but not adjusted analysis. Within the limitations of the study, class‐specific EpMM was a strong predictor of dnDSA formation. Associations were stronger when considering only the subset of antibody‐verified EpMM.ConclusionAssociations between HLA EpMM and clinical outcomes in pediatric renal allograft recipients seen on univariate analysis were attenuated following adjustment for confounders. These findings are inconclusive but suggest that HLA EpMM may provide one tool for assessing long‐term risk in this population while highlighting the need for further clinical studies.
The impact of public health service increased risk donors in pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Dick Andre A. S. , Blondet Niviann M. , Shaw Kathryn , Healey Patrick J. , Horslen Simon , Smith Jodi M. , Perkins James D. , Reyes Jorge D. 
Published: April 2020

AbstractMany transplant programs are reluctant to use organs from deceased donors designated as “PHS increased risk” due to misconceptions regarding the quality of those organs. This study evaluated the impact of PHS increased risk donors on patient and allograft survival in pediatric patients undergoing liver transplantation. Retrospective analysis of the UNOS database from January 2005 through September 2017 revealed 5615 pediatric patients who underwent isolated liver transplantation; of these, 5057 patients received primary isolated liver transplants and 558 patients received isolated liver retransplants. PHS increased risk organs were used in 6.7% and 5.4% of the children receiving primary isolated and retransplant livers, respectively. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for donor and recipient characteristics determined the relative risk of PHS status on allograft and patient survival. Sicker children (those in ICU [P < .001] and on life support [P = .04]) were more likely to receive PHS increased risk donor organs. There were no differences in overall patient (P = .61) or allograft (P = .68) survival between pediatric patients receiving PHS positive vs PHS negative deceased donor organs; adjusted models also demonstrated no statistically significant differences in patient or allograft survival. Excellent patient and allograft survival can be accomplished with PHS increased risk organs.
Exploring Modes of Photokilling by Hypericin
Authors: Kessel David 
Published: April 2020

AbstractEffects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using the anthraquinone hypericin were explored with OVCAR‐5 cells in vitro. Irradiation resulted in ER > lysosomal photodamage. Paraptosis was identified as a primary death pathway resulting from ER perturbation. This is characterized by an extensive pattern of cytoplasmic vacuole formation. As the PDT dose increased, apoptotic death was also detected. The cytoprotective effect of autophagy, observed when certain other subcellular sites are PDT targets, appears to be absent. These results, together with prior evidence that paraptosis can be lethal to cells with an impaired apoptotic pathway, suggest a role for agents with this targeting profile in photodynamic therapy. A limitation to be overcome for hypericin is a suboptimal absorbance profile.
Polls and Elections: Racial Resentment and Personal Economic Evaluations in the 2012 and 2016 Presidential Elections
Authors: Shields Todd , Maxwell Angie 
Published: April 2020

AbstractStudies of recent presidential elections emphasize the importance of personal economic evaluations as well as the growing importance of racial attitudes. Less clear, however, is the degree to which economic evaluations are independent of racial considerations. The election of the first African American president offers a unique opportunity to evaluate how elite cues may trigger racial attitudes, a process called “racialization.” Once activated, racial attitudes may become a basis for political evaluations. Despite evidence that racial resentment is a predictor of many political attitudes, there is surprisingly little research exploring relationships between racial resentment and economic evaluations. In this investigation, we examine the influence of racial resentment on personal retrospective and prospective economic evaluations in the 2012 and 2016 presidential elections. These findings have important implications for democratic accountability, particularly in terms of citizens accurately “rewarding or punishing” incumbents based on economic performance.
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed individuals demonstrate slower reactions during a dynamic postural task
Authors: Armitano‐Lago Cortney N. , Morrison Steven , Hoch Johanna M. , Bennett Hunter J. , Russell Daniel M. 
Published: April 2020

IntroductionTo determine whether individuals with a history of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) exhibit altered neuromotor function compared to healthy controls. It was hypothesized that the ACLR group would have slower postural responses compared to healthy individuals of similar age.Materials and MethodsSixteen adults with a unilateral ACLR and 16 matched healthy controls participated. General assessments of neuromotor function were gathered and included measures of reaction time (both seated and postural conditions), walking ability, balance, ankle ROM, proprioception, knee joint laxity, patellar tendon reflex latency, and quadriceps strength. Data were analyzed using mixed generalized linear models with between‐subject (ie, controls, ACLR) and within‐subject factors (ie, affected, unaffected limb).ResultsIndividuals with an ACLR exhibited a significant slowing of their postural reaction times compared to the control individuals. The ACLR group was slower under both the simple (ACLR: 484 ± 6.17 ms, control: 399 ± 1.95 ms) and choice reaction time conditions (ACLR: 550 ± 43 ms, control: 445 ± 43 ms). No other group differences were found in any of the other measures.ConclusionOverall, ACLR individuals had a reduced ability to respond quickly under more challenging postural conditions (ie, stepping response). This finding would indicate that the impact of an ACLR is not purely mechanical and restricted to the joint. Rather, injury and reconstruction of the ACL impact neural mechanisms, altering individuals' ability to respond under challenging balance tasks.
The assessment of platelet function by thromboelastometry as a point‐of‐care test to guide Intercept‐treated platelet support in hemato‐oncological patients and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients
Authors: Leitner Gerda C. , Ho Markus , Tolios Alexander , Hopfinger Georg , Rabitsch Werner , Wohlfarth Philipp 
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUNDPathogen inactivation (PI) techniques for platelet concentrates (PCs) are one of the latest innovations to improve blood safety and reduce the risk of transfusion‐transmitted infections (TTIs). An impaired function and in vivo recovery of platelets as well as an increased PC demand are concerns regarding these techniques. The intent of this study was to evaluate the hemostatic effect of PCs treated with the Intercept™ System by thromboelastometry (TEM) and to assess the clinical validity of its results in comparison to post‐transfusion increase (PTI) and corrected count increment (CCI).STUDY‐DESIGN AND METHODSThis prospective‐observational study included 47 patients (m:f = 25:22; median age: 54 years [21‐70]) of our Bone Marrow Transplantation unit with hemato‐oncological malignancies transfused with Intercept™‐treated PCs. Serial TEM measurements were performed just before and 1 hour after PC transfusion and were analyzed for their correlation with PTI and CCI as well as for clinical variables.RESULTSThe majority of our patients had received a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) (n = 41; 87%). In median 9 (1‐50) PCs were transfused. Serial TEM, PTI, and CCI measurements were available for 150 transfusion episodes. The median platelet dose transfused was 2.65 × 1011/unit (1.8‐6). The median CCI was 9.250 (0‐28.000). We observed a significant improvement in TEM parameters (p < 0.05) after transfusion of PI PCs, which did not mandatory correlate with the 1‐hour PTI and CCI.CONCLUSIONSerial TEM measurements indicate the hemostatic effect of Intercept™‐treated PCs. The 1‐hour PTI and CCI may not appropriately reflect the in vivo function of platelets after PI PC transfusion.
Cold‐stored whole blood in a Norwegian emergency helicopter service: an observational study on storage conditions and product quality
Authors: Bjerkvig Christopher , Sivertsen Joar , Braathen Hanne , Lunde Turid Helen Felli , Strandenes Geir , Assmus Jörg , Hervig Tor , Cap Andrew , Kristoffersen Einar K. , Fosse Theodor , Apelseth Torunn Oveland 
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUNDIncreasing numbers of emergency medical service agencies and hospitals are developing the capability to administer blood products to patients with hemorrhagic shock. Cold‐stored whole blood (WB) is the only single product available to prehospital providers who aim to deliver a balanced resuscitation strategy. However, there are no data on the safety and in vitro characteristics of prehospital stored WB. This study aimed to describe the effects on in vitro quality of storing WB at remote helicopter bases in thermal insulating containers.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSWe conducted a two‐armed single‐center study. Twenty units (test) were stored in airtight thermal insulating containers, and 20 units (controls) were stored according to routine procedures in the Haukeland University Hospital Blood Bank. Storage conditions were continuously monitored during emergency medical services missions and throughout remote and blood bank storage. Hematologic and metabolic variables, viscoelastic properties, and platelet (PLT) aggregation were measured on Days 1, 8, 14, and 21.RESULTSStorage conditions complied with the EU guidelines throughout remote and in‐hospital storage for 21 days. There were no significant differences in PLT aggregation, viscoelastic properties, and hematology variables between the two groups. Minor significantly lower pH, glucose, and base excess and higher lactate were observed after storage in airtight containers.CONCLUSIONForward cold storage of WB is safe and complies with EU standards. No difference is observed in hemostatic properties. Minor differences in metabolic variables may be related to the anaerobic conditions within the thermal box.
Use of an extended CT scale reconstruction to diagnose metal implant failure in a canine elbow
Authors: Labrador Jose , Witte Philip Georg , Holdsworth Andrew 
Published: April 2020

AbstractA Cocker Spaniel presented for recurrence of right forelimb lameness 33 months following transcondylar screw placement for a humeral intracondylar fissure. Elbow radiographs showed no evidence of implant‐related complications. Standard CT scale reconstruction images failed to demonstrate implant failure. Extended CT scale reconstruction images revealed a fracture through the mid‐portion of the screw. Revision surgery confirmed the implant failure; the screw was replaced and the lameness subsequently resolved. Extended CT scale reconstruction images allow detailed assessment of metal implants and should be considered when implant failure is suspected.
Semi‐industrial remediation of effluents polluted by the artisanal activities through bipolar electrocoagulation with aluminum sacrificial electrodes
Authors: El Allaoui Nouha , Omor Anass , Elmadani Fatima Zahra , Bouayad Kenza , Nakabayashi Seiichiro , Loukanov Alexandre 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBipolar electrocoagulation with aluminum sacrificial electrodes was designed to simultaneously remove Cr(VI), phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand and turbidity from both tanning, domestic and industrial wastewater. The experimental setup was demonstrated in a semi‐industrial scale for the remediation of effluents released from Fez city (Morocco), which exhibited highly variable composition and pH. The results showed that the elimination levels are enhancing with increasing of the energy consumption and electrode amount. The optimum conditions of the electrocoagulation process to reduce the pollutants in over 90% were identified at a current density of 5 mA cm–2 that takes around 10 to 30 min at neutral pH. Thus, the proposed method could be considered as an effective approach in the conventional treatment of wastewater from artisanal activities.