bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of a cytosine arabinoside subcutaneous protocol in dogs with meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown aetiology
Authors: Levitin Hilary A. , Foss Kari D. , Li Zhong , Reinhart Jennifer M. , Hague Devon W. , Fan Timothy M. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractCytosine arabinoside (CA) is a commonly used treatment for dogs with meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown aetiology (MUE) with various proposed protocols, many requiring 24 hours (h) of hospitalization or two visits within 24 h. This is a unidirectional study evaluating the pharmacokinetics of a CA subcutaneous (SC) protocol and a standard constant rate infusion (CRI) protocol in 8 dogs with MUE. Dogs received the CRI (200 mg/m2 IV over 24 h), followed by a SC protocol (50 mg/m2 every 2 h for 4 treatments) four weeks later. Plasma CA concentrations were measured by high‐pressure liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS). Median peak CA concentration for the SC protocol (3.40 µg/ml, range 1.60–9.70 µg/ml) was significantly higher than the CRI (1.09 µg/ml, range 0.77–1.67 µg/ml; p = .02). Median concentration at 1h and 8h following initiation of treatment was significantly higher for the SC protocol (CA1 2.28 µg/ml, range 0.97–2.67; CA8 1.83 µg/ml, range 0.77–2.84) compared to the CRI (CA1 0.01 µg/ml, range 0–0.45; CA8 0.74 µg/ml, range 0.67–1.11; p = .01). While the PK properties of CA when administered as a CRI has been previously investigated, this study demonstrated that CA when administered via repeated 50 mg/m2 injections every 2 h over an 8‐h period, provided sustained plasma levels above its therapeutic target and for a significantly longer duration of time than did a standard CRI protocol.
Behavioral context of echolocation and prey‐handling sounds produced by killer whales (Orcinus orca) during pursuit and capture of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.)
Authors: Wright Brianna M. , Deecke Volker B. , Ellis Graeme M. , Trites Andrew W. , Ford John K. B. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractAvailability of preferred salmonid prey and a sufficiently quiet acoustic environment in which to forage are critical to the survival of resident killer whales (Orcinus orca) in the northeastern Pacific. Although piscivorous killer whales rely on echolocation to locate and track prey, the relationship between echolocation, movement, and prey capture during foraging by wild individuals is poorly understood. We used acoustic biologging tags to relate echolocation behavior to prey pursuit and capture during successful feeding dives by fish‐eating killer whales in coastal British Columbia, Canada. The significantly higher incidence and rate of echolocation prior to fish captures compared to afterward confirms its importance in prey detection and tracking. Extremely rapid click sequences (buzzes) were produced before or concurrent with captures of salmon at depths typically exceeding 50 m, and were likely used by killer whales for close‐range prey targeting, as in other odontocetes. Distinctive crunching and tearing sounds indicative of prey‐handling behavior occurred at relatively shallow depths following fish captures, matching concurrent observations that whales surfaced with fish prior to consumption and often shared prey. Buzzes and prey‐handling sounds are potentially useful acoustic signals for estimating foraging efficiency and determining if resident killer whales are meeting their energetic requirements.
Levels and potential drivers of under‐five mortality sex ratios in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Costa Janaína Calu , Weber Ann M. , Abdalla Safa , Darmstadt Gary L. , Victora Cesar G. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundNon‐biological childhood mortality sex ratios may reflect community sex preferences and gender discrimination in health care.ObjectiveWe assessed the association between contextual factors and gender bias in under‐five mortality rates (U5MR) in low‐ and middle‐income countries.MethodsFull birth histories available from Demographic and Health Surveys and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (2010‐2018) in 80 countries were used to estimate U5MR male‐to‐female sex ratios. Expected sex ratios and their residuals (difference of observed and expected) were derived from a linear regression model, adjusted for overall mortality. Negative residuals indicate more likelihood of discrimination against girls, and we refer to this as a measure of potential gender bias. Associations between residuals and national development and gender inequality indices and with survey‐derived child health care indicators were tested using Spearman's correlation.ResultsMortality residuals for under‐five mortality were not associated with national development, education, religion, or gender inequality indices. Negative residuals were more common in countries where boys were more likely to be taken to health services than girls (rho −0.24, 95% confidence interval −0.45, −0.01).ConclusionsCountries where girls were more likely to die than boys, accounting for overall mortality levels, were also countries where boys were more likely to receive health care than girls. Further research is needed to understand which national characteristics explain the presence of gender bias, given that the analyses of development levels and gender equality did not discriminate between countries with or without excess mortality of girls. Reporting on child mortality separately by sex is required to enable such advances.
Breast feeding and timing of puberty in boys and girls: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Hvidt Julie J. , Brix Nis , Ernst Andreas , Lunddorf Lea L.H. , Ramlau‐Hansen Cecilia H. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundBreast feeding has been associated with improved infant health, but its impact on pubertal timing remains uncertain, particularly in boys.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the association between duration of breast feeding and pubertal timing in boys and girls.MethodsThis population‐based cohort study included 13 511 boys and girls from the Puberty Cohort nested within the Danish National Birth Cohort. The children gave half‐yearly, self‐reported information on pubertal development through questionnaires (Tanner stages, age at menarche, first ejaculation, voice break, axillary hair growth, and acne). Information on breast feeding was provided by the mothers when the children were 6 months of age. We estimated mean differences (in months) in age at attaining each pubertal marker and for overall timing of puberty (combined estimate) for every additional month of exclusive breast feeding. Furthermore, we estimated differences in pubertal age when comparing children never exclusively breastfed and exclusively breastfed <4 months using children exclusively breastfed ≥4 months as reference. In sub‐analyses, we further adjusted for infant weight gain and childhood BMI at 7 years to investigate whether these variables mediated the association.ResultsBoys tended to reach pubertal markers later for every additional month of exclusive breast feeding (combined estimate: 0.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.0, 0.4 months). Never exclusively breastfed boys reached pubertal markers earlier than the boys exclusively breastfed ≥4 months (combined estimate: −4.1 (95% CI −6.7, −1.6) months). Boys exclusively breastfed <4 months also reached pubertal markers earlier than those never exclusively breastfed but with smaller differences. In girls, duration of breast feeding was not associated with pubertal development. When including infant weight gain or childhood BMI, the results remained essentially unchanged.ConclusionsShorter duration of exclusive breast feeding was associated with earlier pubertal development in boys but not in girls.
Gordon syndrome: Dental implications and a case report
Authors: Roomaney Imaan A. , Walters Jaco , Spencer Careni , Chetty Manogari 
Published: May 2021

AbstractAimThis article describes the craniofacial and dental features of an individual with Gordon syndrome. The dental management implications and considerations of treating patients with Gordon Syndrome and similar conditions resulting in limited mouth opening are discussed.MethodsA 14‐year‐old South African male was referred to the Dental Genetics Clinic with the main complaint of carious teeth. His craniofacial characteristics included low set and posteriorly rotated ears, down‐slanted palpebral fissures, sloping shoulders, and a broad neck. A prognathic mandible and mild facial asymmetry were noted. He had a significant limitation of mouth opening (2 cm at incisors). Radiographic examination revealed multiple carious teeth, missing mandibular premolars, impacted maxillary premolars, taurodontism of the 44 and 34, and enlarged coronoid processes of the mandible. Dental extractions and restorations have been performed under local anaesthesia.ConclusionGordon syndrome and similar conditions, may result in limited oral opening and impaired manual dexterity. The severity of limitation of mouth opening determines management. Dental management should focus on ensuring that the patient is able to maintain good oral hygiene by customising homecare for the individual and regular dental visits.
Confederate Imagery in Congressional Rhetoric: Divisions and Deliberation
Authors: Hayden Jessica M. 
Published: May 2021

ObjectiveThisarticle examines congressional communication concerning Confederate statues and the Confederate battle flag.MethodUsing a mixed‐methods approach to text analysis, I identify members of Congress who have taken a side in the debate surrounding Confederate symbols, and contextualize the many rhetorical themes present in the debate within our national legislature.ResultsI find substantial bipartisan agreement concerning removal of Confederate flags from at least some locations. However, as expected, there is much more disagreement over the appropriate place for Confederate statues. It is these rhetorical differences that define the broader conflict over these symbols.ConclusionsExamining the conversation of the political elite regarding Confederate symbols provides context and structure to the national conversation being had in communities around the United States.
Blood group O convalescent plasma donations have significantly lower levels of SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies compared to blood group A donations
Authors: Hayes Chelsea , Rubenstein Wesley , Gibb David , Klapper Ellen , Tanaka Julie , Pepkowitz Samuel 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundCOVID‐19 convalescent plasma (CCP) is plasma collected from individuals who have recovered from SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The FDA Emergency Use Authorization restricts use of CCP to high‐titer units only. The purpose of this study was to determine if donor ABO blood group was associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody response, and subsequent qualification as high‐titer CCP.MethodsAll CCP donations collected from April 21, 2020 to September 1, 2020 were included. The Abbott ARCHITECT semi‐quantitative chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay was used to assess IgG antibodies to the nucleocapsid protein of SARS‐CoV‐2. Units with a S/C value ≥4.5 were considered high titer.ResultsA total of 232 CCP donations were evaluated. There were no significant differences in the distribution of sex, age, and interval from symptom resolution to donation by ABO blood group. The mean SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibody S/C value was significantly lower in blood group O donations (3.6), compared to blood group A (5.0) donations (p < .001). There was no difference in antibody response between the other blood group pairings. Blood group O donations resulted in a lower percentage of high‐titer units (35%), compared to blood group A (60%), B (58%), and AB (65%) donations.ConclusionBlood group O donations were found to have significantly lower levels of SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG nucleocapsid antibodies compared to blood group A donations and were less likely to produce CCP units that qualified as high titer. These findings may aid donor recruitment to promote availability of high‐titer CCP to meet patient needs.
Reshaping surgical specialist training in small animal surgery during and after theCOVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Alexander Akash , Radke Heidi 
Published: May 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the perceived effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on small animal surgical specialist training, among trainees and supervisors and to propose changes, based upon the results, that could be incorporated into training programs.Study DesignAnonymous online questionnaire survey.Sample PopulationEighty‐one eligible responses were collected in September 2020, including 52 European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) residents and 29 ECVS Diplomates acting as supervisors.MethodsDescriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Fisher's exact test was used to test for significance.ResultsA reduction in surgical case load was reported by 82% (n = 66/81) of respondents, with 82% (n = 54/66) of those believing that COVID‐19 had a mild‐to‐moderate impact on training. Compared to supervisors, residents were less likely to feel that appropriate guidance, a safe working environment, and measures to preserve training had been provided (p < .01). Only 45% (n = 22/49) of residents reported confidence with performing teleconsultations. Ninety percent (n = 73/81) of respondents considered online “case presentations” and “edited surgical video footage” as a positive ancillary tool.ConclusionCOVID‐19 has resulted in a reduction in case load and training for the majority of residents. A discrepancy between the opinions of residents and supervisors was noted on various aspects of COVID‐19 related effects.ImpactOpen communication, as well as the use of additional training tools through digital platforms may help to preserve safe and effective training during times of decreased clinical activity. While this study has focused on surgical specialist training, the results could be applied to other disciplines.
Effects of bradykinin on voltage‐gated KV4 channels in muscle dorsal root ganglion neurons of rats with experimental peripheral artery disease
Authors: Li Qin , Qin Lu , Li Jianhua 
Published: May 2021

Key pointsDuring exercise, bradykinin (BK), a muscle metabolite in ischaemic muscles, exaggerates autonomic responses to activation of muscle afferent nerves in peripheral artery disease (PAD).We examined whether BK inhibits activity of KV4 channels in muscle afferent neurons of PAD rats induced by femoral artery occlusion.We demonstrated that: 1) femoral occlusion attenuates KV4 currents in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons innervating the hindlimb muscles and decreases the threshold of action potential firing; 2) BK has a greater inhibitory effect on KV4 currents in muscle DRG neurons of PAD rats; and 3) expression of KV4.3 is downregulated in DRGs of PAD rats and inhibition of KV4.3 significantly decreases activity of KV4 currents in muscle DRG neurons.Femoral artery occlusion‐induced limb ischaemia and/or ischaemia‐induced metabolites (i.e. BK) inhibit activity of KV4 channels in muscle afferent neurons and this is likely involved in the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex in PAD.AbstractMuscle afferent nerve‐activated reflex sympathetic nervous and blood pressure responses are exaggerated during exercise in patients with peripheral artery diseases (PAD) and in PAD rats induced by femoral artery occlusion. However, the precise signalling pathways and molecular mediators responsible for these abnormal autonomic responses in PAD are poorly understood. A‐type voltage‐gated K+(KV) channels are quintessential regulators of cellular excitability in the various tissues. Among KVchannels, KV4 (i.e. KV4.1 and KV4.3) in primary sensory neurons mainly participate in physiological functions in regulation of mechanical and chemical sensation. However, little is known about the role of KV4 in regulating neuronal activity in muscle afferent neurons of PAD. In addition, bradykinin (BK) is considered as a muscle metabolite contributing to the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex in PAD rats with femoral artery occlusion. Our data demonstrated that: 1) KV4 currents are attenuated in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons innervating the hindlimb muscles of PAD rats, along with a decreasing threshold of action potential firing; 2) KV4 currents are inhibited by application of BK onto muscle DRG neurons of PAD rats to a greater degree; and 3) expression of KV4.3 is downregulated in the DRGs of PAD rats and KV4.3 channel is a major contributor to the activity of KV4 currents in muscle DRG neurons. In conclusion, data suggest that femoral artery occlusion‐induced limb ischaemia and/or ischaemia‐induced metabolites (i.e. BK) inhibit the activity of KV4 channels in muscle afferent neurons likely leading to the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex observed in PAD.
Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) of impact melt breccia and target rocks from the Dhala impact structure, India
Authors: Singh* Anuj Kumar , Pati* Jayanta Kumar , Patil Shiva Kumar , Reimold Wolf Uwe , Rao Arun Kumar , Pandey Om Prakash 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT
The ~11-km-wide, Paleoproterozoic Dhala impact structure in north-central India comprises voluminous exposures of impact melt breccia. These outcrops are discontinuously spread over a length of ~6 km in a semicircular pattern along the northern, inner limit of the monomict breccia ring around the central elevated area. This study of the magnetic fabrics of impact breccias and target rocks from the Dhala impact structure identified a weak preferred magnetic orientation for pre-impact crystalline target rocks. The pre- and synimpact rocks from Dhala have magnetite and ilmenite as common magnetic phases. The distributions of magnetic vectors are random for most impact melt breccia samples, but some do indicate a preferred orientation. Our anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) data demonstrate that the shape of susceptibility ellipsoids for the target rocks varies from prolate to oblate, and most impact melt breccia samples display both shapes, with a slight bias toward the oblate geometry. The average value for the corrected degree of anisotropy of impact melt rock (P′ = 1.009) is lower than that for the target rocks (P′ = 1.091). The present study also shows that both impact melt breccia and target rock samples of the Dhala structure have undergone minor postimpact alteration, and have similar compositions in terms of magnetic phases and high viscosity. Fine-grained iron oxide or hydroxide is the main alteration phase in impact melt rocks. Impact melt rocks gave a narrow range of mean magnetic susceptibility (Km) and P′ values, in contrast to the target rock samples, which gave Km = 0.05–12.9 × 10−3 standard international units (SI) and P′ = 1.036–1.283. This suggests similar viscosity of the source magma, and limited difference in the degrees of recorded deformation. Between Pagra and Maniar villages, the Km value of impact melt breccias gradually decreases in a clockwise direction, with a maximum value observed near Pagra (Km = 1.67 × 10−3 SI). The poor grouping of magnetic fabrics for most impact melt rock samples implies local turbulence in rapidly cooled impact melt at the front of the melt flow immediately after the impact. The mean K1 for most impact melt samples suggests subhorizontal (&lt;5°) flow in various directions. The average value of Km for the target rocks (4.41 × 10−3 SI) is much higher compared to the value for melt breccias (1.09 × 10−3 SI). The results of this study suggest that the melt breccias were likely part of a sheet-like body of sizeable extent. Our magnetic fabric data are also supported by earlier core drilling information from ~70 locations, with coring depths reaching to −500 m. Our extensive field observations combined with available widespread subsurface data imply that the impact melt sheet could have covered as much as 12 km2 in the Dhala structure, with an estimated minimum melt volume of ~2.4 km3.
The first microseconds of a hypervelocity impact
Authors: Gärtner Marie Arnika , Ebert* Matthias , Schimmerohn Martin , Hergarten Stefan , Schäfer Frank , Kenkmann Thomas , Gulde Max 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT
The earliest ejection process of impact cratering involves very high pressures and temperatures and causes near-surface material to be ejected faster than the initial impact velocity. On Earth, such material may be found hundreds to even thousands of kilometers away from the source crater as tektites. The mechanism yielding such great distances is not yet fully understood. Hypervelocity impact experiments give insights into this process, particularly as the technology necessary to record such rapid events in high temporal and spatial resolution has recently become available. To analyze the earliest stage of this hypervelocity process, two series of experiments were conducted with a two-stage light-gas gun, one using aluminum and the other using quartzite as target material. The vertical impacts of this study were recorded with a high-speed video camera at a temporal resolution of tens of nanoseconds for the first three microseconds after the projectile’s contact with the target. The images show a self-luminous, ellipsoidal vapor cloud expanding uprange. In order to obtain angle-resolved velocities of the expanding cloud, its entire front and the structure of the cloud were systematically investigated. The ejected material showed higher velocities at high angles to the target surface than at small angles, providing a possible explanation for the immense extent of the strewn fields.
AB0603 THE NEW POSSIBILITIES OF USING CHONDROITIN SULFATE IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS
Authors: Sharapova E. , Kashevarova N. , Taskina E. , Kusevich D. , Alekseeva L. , Lila A. 
Published: May 2021

Background:Administration of Chondroitin Sulfate for treatment of osteoarthritis included treatment types include systemic and parenteral therapies. The benefits of local therapies between difference route is ambivalent.Objectives:To evaluate effectiveness and safety of Chondroitin Sulfate (CS) by intramuscular and concomitant (intramuscular and intraarticular) route of administration in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).Methods:In total 150 patients with knee OA according by ACR criteria and with radiological stages 2 and 3 according to Kellgren-Lawrence were enrolled. Patients were divided by 2 groups: 75 patients (R) received course of 25 intramuscular injection every other day: at the first 3 injection’s in dose 100 mg, and in continue in dose 200 mg, 75 patients in 2nd group (N) received 5 intra-articular injections in target knee in dose 200 mg once per 3 days, in continue 16 intramuscular injections every other day in dose 200 mg. All patients received NSAID - meloxicam in stable dose 15 mg per day. All patients were checked by WOMAC, pain by visual analog scale (VAS), McGiIl Pain Questionnaire (MPQ). At the baseline, standard clinical examination for all patients were blood tests, urine test, coagulation panel and ECG.Results:After comparing of two groups by the end of course the intensity of pain by VAS was significantly greater in R group (21,88±13,24 vs 16,81±13,49; р<0,0001). There were no significant differences between groups in improvement of WOMAC, WOMAC subscales and MPQ from baseline. Serious adverse events (AE) were absent. 11 AE’s were detected 3,3% (5/150), but in 100% of cases AE’s were resolved by the end of course.Conclusion:CS is effective decreased intensity of pain and stiffness, improved functional ability of joints both intramuscular and concomitant route of administration. However, significantly greater results at pain intensity by VAS shows combination: pain intensity by the end of course was significantly lower in group with concomitant intramuscular and intra-articular injections. Probably, it was associated with faster resolution of synovitis by intraarticular route of administration, that leads to choose this route for patients with comorbidity.Disclosure of Interests:None declared.