bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Management of patients with diabetes and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: An international comparison
Authors: Arnold Suzanne V. , Yap Jonathan , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Tang Fengming , Tay Wan T. , Teng Tiew H.K. , McGuire Darren K. , Januzzi James L. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Masoudi Frederick A. , Kosiborod Mikhail 
Published: August 2018

AimsTo compare the management of patients with diabetes and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in the United States and Asia to understand variations in treatment patterns across different healthcare systems.Materials and methodsOur cohort included patients with diabetes and HFrEF (ejection fraction <40%) from a US‐based registry of adults with diabetes (2013‐2016, electronic health records) and a multi‐national Asian registry of adults with heart failure (2010‐2016, prospective registry). Asian countries were categorized as high income (HI) or low income (LI), according to the United Nations classification. Rates of use of guideline‐directed medical therapies (determined through review of active medication lists) were compared across regions.ResultsPatients with diabetes and HFrEF in the United States (n = 28 877) were older, had higher body mass indices, and were more likely to have coronary disease than those in Asia (n = 2235). Compared with US patients, the use of guideline‐directed medical therapy for HFrEF was lower in patients in LI Asian countries (angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers: patients in the United States, 77% vs. patients in HI Asian countries, 76% vs patients in LI Asian countries, 69%; β‐blockers: patients in the United States, 91% vs. patients in HI Asian countries, 87% vs. patients in LI Asian countries, 69%; P < 0.001 for both). Insulin was used more commonly in the United States (44% vs. 24% vs. 25%, respectively; P < 0.001), whereas sulphonylureas were more often prescribed in Asian countries (42% vs. 52% vs. 54%; respectively, P < 0.001). Thiazolidinediones were prescribed in 6% of US patients compared with <1% of patients in Asia. The use of newer diabetes medications was <5% in all.ConclusionIn both the United States and Asia, opportunities for improvement in the use of evidence‐based therapies exist for patients with both diabetes and HFrEF. Effective tools to guide medication choices for these complex, high‐risk patients could have substantial impact on quality and outcomes.
Unexplained forelimb lameness possibly associated with radiculopathy
Authors: Dyson S. J. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryThere are limited descriptions of forelimb lameness that is not improved by diagnostic analgesia. The objectives of this retrospective study were to describe the clinical features, response to diagnostic analgesia and imaging findings in such horses (n = 25), to apply a ridden horse ethogram to video recordings of a subset of horses (n = 13) and to document post‐mortem findings (n = 3). Clinical records from 2006 to 2016 were reviewed, and data concerning signalment, history, lame limb(s), lameness characteristics, response to diagnostic analgesia and diagnostic imaging were recorded. A ridden horse ethogram was applied to 13 horses to document pain‐related behaviour. Results showed that nine horses had idiopathic hopping‐type forelimb lameness only when ridden; two horses exhibited a hopping‐type gait only on the lunge or worse on the lunge than ridden, and 14 horses had conventional lameness. Head and neck tilt was observed in 24% of horses. Lameness was different on a long rein compared with a contact in 28% of horses. Forelimb stumbling was a feature in 16% of horses. Exacerbation of lameness by diagnostic analgesia was seen in 76% of horses. Radiographic abnormalities of the caudal cervical and cranial thoracic vertebrae of potential clinical significance were observed in 92% of horses. Pain behaviour scores were higher than those reported for nonlame horses. Post‐mortem examination of three horses provided the evidence of caudal cervical or cranial thoracic nerve root compression. Limitations of the study were that it cannot be assumed that there was a common aetiology of lameness in all horses. It was concluded that there is increasing evidence that nerve root injury may cause forelimb lameness.
Treatment of an invasive equine mast cell tumour in the extensor carpi radialis by extensive tenomyectomy and local corticosteroid injections
Authors: Johnston G. C. A. , Zedler S. T. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryEquine mast cell tumours (MCT) have been reported to occur in the skin, respiratory tract, oral cavity, synovial structures and eye. These tumours are typically locally invasive and nonaggressive. In this case, a MCT was located in the extensor carpi radialis (ECR) and was highly infiltrative. Excision of the ECR and local corticosteroid injection was curative and resulted in a good functional outcome. A 12‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding presented for lameness, swelling and pruritus associated with the right antebrachium. Sonographic changes were suggestive of severe tenosynovitis and purulent material in the ECR. Surgical exploration revealed maceration at the ECR musculotendinous junction. The extensor sheath contained a large quantity of caseous material and serosanguinous fluid. The ECR tendon and 75% of the muscle was excised. Cytology and histopathology were consistent with a MCT that infiltrated the surgical margins. Post‐operatively the horse was treated with multiple local corticosteroid injections along the incision. Right forelimb movement was initially limited, however, there was steady improvement over 3 months with increasing exercise. At 18 months post‐operatively, no lameness was detectable in the walk, trot or canter and no recurrence of MCT was apparent. The horse appeared to compensate for loss of the ECR by using the biceps during the swing phase. Partial excision and local corticosteroid treatment can be curative for cases of invasive MCT. Extensive excision of the ECR is a viable treatment option for neoplasia or other conditions affecting the ECR in the horse.
Using a telemetry study to assess the boundary net efficiency of an enclosure system used for yellow eel density monitoring
Authors: Dorow Malte , Schulz Steffen , Frankowski Jens , Ubl Claus 
Published: August 2018

AbstractTo assess yellow eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) densities in non‐tidal waters, 1‐ha enclosure approach was developed. For unbiased density and biomass calculations, the catchability of the system needs to be evaluated. A telemetry study with 49 tagged eels was conducted in 2015 and 2016 to verify the effectiveness of the 1.8‐m high boundary net. Excluding recaptured eels (N = 10), 42.8% of the released eels (N = 15) escaped the enclosure within 48 hr. Regarding the movement frequency, similar movement patterns were observed for enclosed and escaped eels within 48 hr after release. Based on the telemetry study, it is concluded that the boundary net is recognised as an obstacle by yellow eels, and reduces the escapement of enclosed eels.
Evaluation of eight melanocytic and neural crest‐associated markers in a well‐characterised series of 124 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours (MPNST): useful to distinguish MPNST from melanoma?
Authors: Gaspard Margot , Lamant Laurence , Tournier Emilie , Valentin Thibaud , Rochaix Philippe , Terrier Philippe , Ranchere‐Vince Dominique , Coindre Jean‐Michel , Filleron Thomas , Le Guellec Sophie 
Published: August 2018

AimsThe diagnosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST) may be challenging, especially in the sporadic setting. Owing to the lack of specific histological criteria, immunohistochemical and molecular diagnostic markers, several differential diagnoses must be considered, especially melanoma. Indeed, although S100 protein usually stains melanoma, other melanocytic markers are often negative, especially in spindle cell/desmoplastic types. This pattern of immunoreactivity resembles that of some nerve‐derived tumours such as MPNST. Owing to their different clinical behaviours and therapeutic implications, accurate identification of these two different tumours is crucial.Methods and resultsS100, SOX10, KBA62, MITF, HMB45, Melan‐A, tyrosinase PNL2 and BRAF‐V600E immunostaining was performed in a pathologically and genetically well‐characterised cohort of primary MPNST (n = 124), including 66 (53%) NF1‐associated tumours. Sox10 and KBA62 expression were found, respectively, in 102 (84%) and in 101 (83%) MPNST, whereas S100 was expressed in 64 cases (52%). We observed an increased loss of S100 with increasing histological grade (P = 0.0052). We found Melan‐A expression in 14% (n = 17) of all MPNST, occurring in 82% (n = 14) of cases in an NF1 context. Six per cent (n = 8) of MPNST showed tyrosinase positivity, including seven (87%) NF1‐associated. MITF expression was found in 10 (8%) MPNST. None expressed PNL2, HMB45 or BRAF‐V600E.ConclusionMPNST (in NF1 and a sporadic setting) can quite often be positive for Melan‐A, tyrosinase and MITF. Pathologists should be cognisant of these exceptions to prevent confusion with melanoma.
Characteristics and mortality of severe influenza cases treated with parenteral aqueous zanamivir, United Kingdom, October 2009 to January 2011
Authors: Cleary Paul Robert , Crofts Jonathan , Parry‐Ford Frances , Chand Meera , Phin Nick 
Published: August 2018

BackgroundAqueous zanamivir solution, an investigational product, was provided by the manufacturer on compassionate grounds for parenteral administration to severe H1N1pdm09 influenza cases during the 2009 pandemic.ObjectiveTo describe characteristics and outcomes of UK patients receiving parenteral zanamivir therapy.MethodsCollaborators at multiple hospital sites gathered retrospective data on patients receiving aqueous zanamivir therapy between Q4 2009 and Q1 2011. We present analysis of the demographics, clinical features, treatment and outcomes of this cohort.ResultsData on 185 cases were obtained (response rate of 38%; median age 43 years; 62% male; 17% non‐Caucasian ethnic group). Most frequent co‐morbidities included cancer, immunosuppression and respiratory conditions. Most patients received intravenous zanamivir alone (90%), for durations of up to 21 days. 13% of cases had adverse effects related to zanamivir therapy. Thirty four percentage of cases died. No significant relationship was seen between mortality and timing or route of administration of aqueous zanamivir therapy.ConclusionsThe response rate of this observational study of the outcomes of treatment of severe influenza was low, allowing limited conclusions to be drawn. Some potential adverse effects were noted. Clinicians should carefully consider potential risks and benefits of use of this product. New treatment options are urgently required to improve outcomes for patients with severe influenza infections.
The impact of influenza infection on young children, their family and the health care system
Authors: Willis Gabriela A. , Preen David B. , Richmond Peter C. , Jacoby Peter , Effler Paul V. , Smith David W. , Robins Christine , Borland Meredith L. , Levy Avram , Keil Anthony D. , Blyth Christopher C. ,   the WAIVE Study Team
Published: August 2018

BackgroundInfluenza is a major cause of respiratory illness in young children. Assessing the impact of infection on children and the community is required to guide immunisation policies.ObjectivesTo describe the impact of laboratory‐proven influenza in young children and to compare its impact with that of other respiratory viruses on the child, their family and the health care system.MethodsPreschool children presenting for care or admission to a tertiary paediatric hospital during the 2008‐2014 influenza seasons were tested for respiratory virus by polymerase chain reaction and culture. Parental surveys were used to determine the impact of infection on illness duration, medication use, absenteeism and health service utilisation. Multivariate regression analyses were used to assess the impact of influenza and to evaluate the association between influenza status and outcomes.ResultsAmong 1191 children assessed, 238 had influenza. Among children with influenza, 87.8% were administered antipyretics and 40.9% antibiotics. 28.6% had secondary complications. 65.4% of children missed school/day care, and 53.4% of parents missed work. When influenza and other viruses were compared, significant differences were noted including duration of illness (influenza: 9.54 days, other viruses: 8.50 days; P = 0.005) and duration of absenteeism for both the child (23.1 vs 17.3 hours; P = 0.015) and their parents (28.5 vs 22.7 hours; P = 0.012).ConclusionsInfluenza infection in young children has a significant impact on medication use, absenteeism and the use of health care service. Significant differences are identified when compared with other ILI. These data demonstrate that influenza prevention strategies including immunisation are likely to have wide and significant impacts.
Architectural engineering inspired method of preparing Cf/ZrC–SiC with graceful mechanical responses
Authors: Hu Ping , Cheng Yuan , Guo Xiang , Ma Chen , Hu Peitao , Qu Qiang , Zhao Hong , Du Shanyi 
Published: August 2018

AbstractInspired by grouting technique in architectural engineering, an innovative method of slurry injection and vacuum impregnation was put forward to introduce nanosized ZrC–SiC ceramics into PyC modified 3‐D needle‐punched carbon fiber preform homogeneously and continuously, followed by spark plasma sintering to prepare Cf/ZrC–SiC with graceful mechanical responses. The composite possessed improved fracture toughness and work of fracture at 5.37 ± 0.25 MPa∙m1/2 and 951 ± 12 J/m2, 50% and nearly one order of magnitude higher than those of ZrC–SiC composite, respectively, with rivaling flexural strength at 177 ± 8 MPa synchronously. A graceful fracture mode was embodied in an obviously extended yield plateau with increased failure displacement by 300%. This enhancement was attributed to the uniform and continuous combination of ZrC–SiC with carbon fiber preform as well as protection and interface tailoring from PyC coating. The study offered an easy and effective method of preparing 3‐D fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites.
Exploring genetic diversity in an Italian horse native breed to develop strategies for preservation and management
Authors: Ablondi Michela , Vasini Matteo , Beretti Valentino , Superchi Paola , Sabbioni Alberto 
Published: August 2018

AbstractGenetic diversity is a key factor for both adaptation and response to selection. The loss of genetic diversity causes a decrease in individual fitness, and it has a dramatically negative effect on population lifespan in the long term. This study aimed at exploring the genetic diversity at pedigree level of the Bardigiano horse breed, which is a native breed from Italy shaped for living in rural areas. In 1977, the Bardigiano studbook was founded to preserve the breed and for improving its use for riding and draft purposes. Pedigree data contained 9,469 horses, of which 3,416 were alive. Demographic and genetic parameters were estimated on subpopulations to evaluate potential genetic diversity differences among breeding and nonbreeding animals, and animals showing different breeding values (EBVs) for an index combining 18 conformation traits. Throughout the studied period, inbreeding steadily increased, reaching in the last birth year cohort a mean value equal to 0.10. The rate of inbreeding per generation, assuming a mean generation interval of 8.74 years, was equal to 1.64%. Moreover, significant differences on both average relatedness and inbreeding among horses with high and low EBVs were shown. Our study unravelled the state of genetic diversity in the Bardigiano breed, highlighting that breeding strategies for optimizing the contribution of breeding animals in the coming generations are needed to ensure long‐term survival of the Bardigiano horse breed.
The effects of periodontal treatment on diabetic patients: The DIAPERIO randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vergnes Jean‐Noel , Canceill Thibault , Vinel Alexia , Laurencin‐Dalicieux Sara , Maupas‐Schwalm Françoise , Blasco‐Baqué Vincent , Hanaire Hélène , Arrivé Elise , Rigalleau Vincent , Nabet Cathy , Sixou Michel , Gourdy Pierre , Monsarrat Paul ,   the DIAPERIO Group
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimTo assess whether periodontal treatment can lead to clinical, glycaemic control and quality of life improvements in metabolically unbalanced diabetic patients (type 1 or type 2) diagnosed with periodontitis.MethodsIn this open‐labelled randomized controlled trial, diabetic subjects (n = 91) were given “immediate” or “delayed” periodontal treatment (full‐mouth non‐surgical scaling and root planing, systemic antibiotics, and oral health instructions). The main outcome was the effect on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C) and fructosamine levels. The General Oral Health Assessment Index and the SF‐36 index were used to assess quality of life (QoL).ResultsPeriodontal health significantly improved after periodontal treatment (p < 0.001). Periodontal treatment seemed to be safe but had no significant effects on glycaemic control based on HbA1C (adjusted mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (aMD) of 0.04 [−0.16;0.24]) and fructosamine levels (aMD 5.0 [−10.2;20.2]). There was no obvious evidence of improvement in general QoL after periodontal treatment. However, there was significant improvement in oral health‐related QoL (aMD 7.0 [2.4;11.6], p = 0.003).ConclusionAlthough periodontal treatment showed no clinical effect on glycaemic control in this trial, important data were provided to support periodontal care among diabetic patients. Periodontal treatment is safe and improves oral health‐related QoL in patients living with diabetes. ISRCTN15334496.
Impact of maternal methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism on intervillous and decidual pathology with pregnancy loss
Authors: Mehandjiev Tzvetozar R. , Tenno Nodoka M. , Nakura Yukiko , Georgiev Tzanko P. , Minekawa Ryoko , Wakimoto Tetsu , Mimura Kazuya , Nakayama Masahiro , Kawakami Kanae , Kanagawa Takeshi , Tomimatsu Takuji , Fujita Tomio , Onouchi Yoshihiro , Takeuchi Makoto , Kimura Tadashi , Yanagihara Itaru 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimThe association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and intervillous and decidual pathology in patients with pregnancy loss was investigated.MethodsWe performed a cross‐sectional study on 243 patients presenting with pregnancy loss for the degree of intervillous fibrin and thrombosis (IT), and decidual fibrin and thrombosis (DT) and determined their MTHFR C677T genotypes. Overall differences in age, body mass index (BMI), gravidity, parity, number of pregnancy losses and gestational period when the pathologic samples were obtained, also were determined.ResultsThere were no significant differences in age, BMI, gravidity, parity, number of pregnancy losses and gestational period, relative to MTHFR C677T genotype (TT vs CT vs CC). There were significantly more T allele carriers and TT genotype patients among patients with severe IT (odds ratio [OR] 1.653, P = 0.033 and OR 2.246, P = 0.032, respectively) and those with severe IT and decidual thrombosis (OR 2.602, P = 0.012 and OR 3.375, P = 0.035, respectively). The CC genotype was protective against the four studied pathologic grades.ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first study showing that the MTHFR C677T TT genotype and T allele are associated with severe intervillous and decidual pathologies in patients with pregnancy loss. Differences in pathologic grades of MTHFR C677T TT genotype could support the hypothesis that further periconceptional treatment for pregnancy loss could be customized depending on single nucleotide polymorphisms.
Effect of increasing doses of vitamin D on bone mineral density and serum N‐terminal telopeptide in elderly women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Smith L. M. , Gallagher J. C. , Kaufmann M. , Jones G. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackgroundThere are few controlled studies of the effect of different doses of vitamin D3 on bone mineral density (BMD).ObjectivesWe conducted a randomized placebo‐controlled trial of increasing doses of vitamin D3 in 163 Caucasian and 31 African American women with serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) ≤50 nmol/L. This is an analysis of secondary outcome BMD to see if there is an association between percent change in BMD and dose of vitamin D3.MethodsParticipants were randomly assigned to placebo, vitamin D3 400, 800, 1600, 2400, 3200, 4000, or 4800 IU/day; calcium supplements, average 600mg, were given to provide a total calcium intake of 1200 mg/d. The primary outcome was 12‐month serum 25OHD level. Analysis methods include ANOVA and Pearson correlations.ResultsThe mean percent increase (±SD) in BMD at 12 months for all women was small; total body, 0.62% (± 2.72), femoral neck 0.59% (±3.58) and spine 0.43% (±2.80). There was no difference in BMD or serum N‐telopeptide in response to vitamin D by dose or race. The increase in total body, spine and hip BMD in elderly women given vitamin D doses between 400 and 4800 IU daily and calcium supplementation is small, unrelated to dose or 12‐month serum 25OHD, free 25OHD or 1,25(OH)2D. There was no evidence of a threshold change in BMD with increasing serum 25OHD or free 25OHD in this population.ConclusionsWe found no significant effect of daily vitamin D dose ranging from 400 to 4800 IU/day on BMD or serum N‐terminal telopeptides in elderly women with initially low serum 25OHD.
The impact of negative mood state on sleep‐related attentional bias in insomnia
Authors: Zheng Senning , Feng Juan , Lin Rongmao , Yan Youwei , Zhang Renchuan , Huang Huiyuan , Wang Junjing , Huang Ruiwang 
Published: August 2018

AbstractSleep‐related attentional bias is thought to play a role in the maintenance of insomnia. However, this concept has been questioned by several studies that did not show the presence of sleep‐related attentional bias in clinical insomnia or poor sleepers. Our goal in the present study was to test whether the mood state of individuals with insomnia affects the presence of sleep‐related attentional bias. To this end, 31 individuals with insomnia and 34 good sleepers were randomly assigned to a negative mood‐inducing condition or a control condition. They then completed a visual probe task with three types of pictorial stimuli (general threat, sleep‐related negative pictures and sleep‐related positive pictures). Vigilance, maintenance and the overall bias indexes were calculated based on the reaction time. We found individuals with insomnia only showed a greater overall bias compared with good sleepers following a negative mood induction, regardless of the pictures presented. In addition, we found that a negative mood state was significantly correlated with the overall attentional bias in good sleepers but not in individuals with insomnia. These findings suggest that sleep‐related attentional bias in insomnia can be modulated by mood state. This effect may reflect the dysregulation of top‐down attentional control in individuals with insomnia.