bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in patients with congenital heart disease
Authors: Guarguagli Silvia , Kempny Aleksander , Cazzoli Ilaria , Barracano Rosaria , Gatzoulis Michael A , Dimopoulos Konstantinos , Ernst Sabine 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Aims
Advances in surgical techniques allow an increasing number of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) to reach adulthood. As patients grow older, atrial fibrillation (AF) is evolving into a major clinical concern and can be difficult to manage medically. Primary AF catheter ablation may, therefore, have a role in this setting but few reports have evaluated its efficacy in CHD patients.

Methods and results
We retrospectively reviewed 58 consecutive patients [median age 51, interquartile range (IQR) 44–63 years, 57% male] with AF (45% paroxysmal) who underwent 122 ablation procedures in our tertiary centre in the last decade. The majority had CHD of moderate or severe complexity (57%, Bethesda Class 2 or 3) with a dilated left atrium (LA) (81%) and/or right atrium (86%). At 1-year from the first ablation, 32.8% of patients remained in sinus rhythm. Multiple procedures were required in 35 (60%) patients. Freedom from AF at 1-year after the 2nd and 3rd ablation was 40.9% and 36.5%, respectively. Multivariable predictors of AF recurrence were underlying anatomic complexity [hazard ratio (HR) in Bethesda 3 1.98, P = 0.006], type of AF (HR for persistent 1.87, P = 0.004), and indexed LA dimensions (HR for cm2/m2 1.06, P = 0.03).

Conclusion
While ablation may be a valid option for the treatment of AF in CHD patients, multiple procedures are likely to be required. Early referral and careful patient selection are essential to optimize the results of AF ablation, achieving a low rate of recurrence. Further studies are needed to validate our prognostic model and guide clinical practice.
Frenzied Flappers: The Hysterical Female in Early Twentieth-Century Social Dance
Authors: Margetts Hope 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
It is widely acknowledged that the freer, more sexualized movements of social dancing in the early twentieth century (1900–1929) accompanied the beginnings of female emancipation both socially and politically. However, less explored are the similarities between the provocative, inelegant choreography of such social dances and the symptoms of female hysteria, a medical phenomenon that saw the body as a canvas for mental distress as provoked by social tensions. This essay will address the possible alignment of hysteria and popular social dance in relation to the evolving Modern Woman. It will examine the motivations of modern, ‘hysterical’ dances, and discuss their progressive status in terms of gender by considering perceived psychosomatic interactions within the female dancing body.
High Flavonoid Cocoa Supplement Ameliorates Plasma Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Levels While Improving Mobility and Quality of Life in Older Subjects: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Munguia Levy , Rubio-Gayosso Ivan , Ramirez-Sanchez Israel , Ortiz Alicia , Hidalgo Isabel , Gonzalez Cristian , Meaney Eduardo , Villarreal Francisco , Najera Nayelli , Ceballos Guillermo 
Published: May 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe age-related decline in mass, strength, and performance of skeletal muscle is associated with loss of independence, falls risk, disability, institutionalization, and death.MethodsTo determine whether a cocoa supplement enriched in flavonoids can improve plasma markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, physical performance and frailty in middle-aged and older subjects, we conducted a two-phase, randomized, double-blind, clinical trial. The initial study included 60 subjects (55- to 70-year-old) allocated into placebo (P), highly alkalinized (no-flavonoid; NF), or flavonoid-rich natural cocoa (F) beverage groups. The follow-up study included 74 older subjects (65- to 90-year-old) randomly distributed into NF or F groups. Subjects were instructed to consume the beverages once/day for up to 12-weeks. A comprehensive (aging relevant) set of end points were assessed, which included mean change in blood plasma metabolic and oxidative stress indicators, in physical performance tests and quality of life (QoL).ResultsIn the initial study, the F group showed improved glycemia, triglyceridemia, High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceridemia/HDL index, and oxidative markers. Performance on the Up and Go test, skeletal muscle index, and quality of life also improved. In the follow-up study, F treatment was associated with significant improvements in metabolic, oxidative stress, and inflammatory endpoints and positive effects on physical performance, frailty indicators, and quality of life (F vs. NF group).ConclusionsRegular flavonoids consumption positively affects blood oxidative stress and inflammation end points, cardiometabolic risk markers, physical performance, and quality of life. The sum of such effects may help to mitigate the extent of frailty development in the elderly people.Trial RegistrationNCT03585868
Vitamin K Status and Mobility Limitation and Disability in Older Adults: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study
Authors: Shea M Kyla , Kritchevsky Stephen B , Loeser Richard F , Booth Sarah L 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Background
Vitamin K has been implicated in chronic diseases associated with increased risk for mobility disability, such as osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease. However, the association between vitamin K status and mobility disability is unknown. Therefore, we examined the association between vitamin K status and incident mobility disability in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study.

Methods
Plasma phylloquinone (vitamin K1) was categorized as &lt;0.5, 0.5–&lt;1.0 and ≥1.0 nmol/L (n = 1,323, 48% male). Plasma ucMGP, which increases when vitamin K status is low, was measured in 716 participants and categorized into tertiles. Mobility limitation and disability, defined as two consecutive semiannual reports of having any or a lot of difficulty walking a one-fourth mile or climbing 10 steps without resting, were assessed over a median 6–10 years of follow-up. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the association between vitamin K status and incident mobility limitation and disability.

Results
Participants with plasma phylloquinone less than 0.5 nmol/L were more likely to develop mobility limitation and disability compared to those with at least 1.0 nmol/L (adjusted HR (95% CI) mobility limitation: 1.27 (1.05–1.53); disability: 1.34 (1.01–1.76)). After further adjustment for knee pain, the associations were partially attenuated (HR (95% CI) mobility limitation: 1.20 (0.99–1.45); disability: 1.26 (0.96–1.67)). Plasma ucMGP was not associated with incident mobility limitation, but was nonlinearly associated with incident mobility disability (HR (95% CI), compared to tertile 1: tertile 2 = 1.64 (1.19–2.27), tertile 3 = 1.17 (0.83–1.66), fully adjusted).

Conclusion
Our results suggest vitamin K may be involved in the disablement process in older age. Future studies are needed to confirm our findings and clarify the underlying mechanism.
Prevalence and Correlates of Falls Among Centenarians: Results from the Five-Country Oldest Old Project (5-COOP)
Authors: Chen Tuo-Yu , Chan Angelique , Andersen-Ranberg Karen , Herr Marie , Fors Stefan , Jeune Bernard , Herrmann François R , Robine Jean-Marie , Gondo Yasuyuki , Saito Yasuhiko 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Background
Many studies have been conducted to investigate risk factors of falls in older people, but little is known about falls among centenarians. We analyzed the cross-sectional data from the Five-Country Oldest Old Project (5-COOP) to investigate the prevalence and correlates of falls among centenarians.

Methods
Data collection was carried out in 2011–2014 in Japan, France, Switzerland, Sweden, and Denmark. The sample consisted of 1,165 centenarians who were at least 100 years old in 2011. The outcome variable was falls in the past 6 months. Demographics, chronic conditions, pain, visual impairment, global cognitive function, dizziness and syncope, number of medications, functional limitation (ie, dressing, bathing, toileting, transferring, incontinence, and feeding), mobility difficulty, poor strength, and assistive device usage were included in the analysis.

Results
The prevalence of falls within the last 6 months was 33.7%, ranging from 21.6% (Japan) to 40.9% (France). Being male, experiencing dizziness, syncope, incontinence, and using assistive devices indoors were associated with an increased risk of falls among centenarians. Significant cross-country differences in the relationships between some risk factors (ie, gender, difficulty with bathing, toileting, transferring, and feeding, and using assistive devices for walking indoors and outdoors) and falls were observed. Subsample analysis using data from each country also showed that factors related to falls were different.

Conclusions
The prevalence of falls among centenarians is high and fall-related factors may be different than those for their younger counterparts. Given that centenarians is an emerging population, more studies investigating risk factors are needed to better understand falls among centenarians.
Semantic Relatedness Corrects the Age-Related Binding Deficit in Working Memory and Episodic Memory
Authors: Loaiza Vanessa M , Srokova Sabina 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Objectives
It is well known that age differentially impacts aspects of long-term episodic memory (EM): Whereas a binding deficit indicates that older adults are less capable than younger adults to encode or retrieve associations between information (e.g., the pairing between two memoranda, such as lock – race), item memory is relatively intact (e.g., recognizing lock without its original pairing).

Method
We tested whether this deficit could be corrected by facilitating establishment of the bindings in working memory (WM) through adapting the semantic relatedness of studied pairs according to participants’ ongoing performance (Experiments 1 and 2). We also examined whether this was evident for the long-term retention of pairs that were not tested in WM (Experiment 2).

Results
The results revealed matched binding and item memory in WM and EM between age groups. Most importantly, older adults required increased semantic strength between word pairs to achieve similar performance to that of younger adults, regardless of whether pairs were immediately tested during the WM task.

Discussion
These findings indicate that relying on their superior semantic memory can correct the commonly exhibited profound deficit in binding memory in older age.
Discordant Patterns of Introgression Suggest Historical Gene Flow into Thai Weedy Rice from Domesticated and Wild Relatives
Authors: Wedger Marshall J , Pusadee Tonapha , Wongtamee Anupong , Olsen Kenneth M 
Published: May 2019

AbstractWeedy relatives of crop species infest agricultural fields worldwide, reducing harvests and threatening global food security. These weeds can potentially evolve and adapt through gene flow from both domesticated crop varieties and reproductively compatible wild relatives. We studied populations of weedy rice in Thailand to investigate the role of introgression from cultivated and wild rice in their evolution. We examined 2 complementary sources of genetic data: allelic variation at 3 rice domestication genes (Bh4, controlling hull color; Rc, controlling pericarp color and seed dormancy; and sh4, controlling seed shattering), and 12 previously published SSR markers. Sampling spanned 3 major rice growing regions in Thailand (Lower North, North East, and Central Plain) and included 124 cultivated rice accessions, 166 weedy rice accessions, and 98 wild rice accessions. Weedy rice strains were overall closely related to the cultivated varieties with which they co-occur. Domestication gene data revealed potential adaptive introgression of sh4 shattering alleles from wild rice. Introgression of potentially maladaptive rc crop alleles (conferring reduced dormancy) was also detected, with the frequency of the crop allele highest in northern populations. Although SSR markers also indicated introgression into weed populations from wild and cultivated rice, there was little overlap with domestication genes in the accessions showing admixed ancestry. This suggests that much of the introgression we detected at domestication genes most likely reflects past introgression rather than recent gene flow. This finding has implications for understanding long-term gene flow dynamics between rice and its weedy and wild relatives, including potential risks of transgene escape.
Dynamic Adaptive Mixture Models with an Application to Volatility and Risk
Authors: Catania Leopoldo 
Published: May 2019

AbstractIn this paper we propose a new class of dynamic mixture models (DAMMs) being able to sequentially adapt the mixture components as well as the mixture composition using information coming from the data. The information driven nature of the proposed class of models allows to exactly compute the full likelihood and to avoid computer intensive simulation schemes. Specific models for financial data are developed starting from the general specification. These models nest many specifications already available in the literature. The properties of the new class of models are discussed through the paper and a large-scale application in quantitative risk management using U.S. equity data is reported.
Individualized Correction of the Interference of Hemolysis on Glycated Albumin Determined by the Ketamine Oxidase Method
Authors: Chen Li , Zhang Bingfeng , Yang Lu , Lou Jianfang , Jiang Ye , Zhang Shichang 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the effect of hemolysis on glycated albumin (GA) levels, as determined by the ketamine oxidase method.

Methods
GA levels and the hemolysis index were determined in nonhemolyzed serum and hemolyzed serum from corresponding patients. We developed an equation to correct the interference of hemolysis on GA, using multiple regression analysis.

Results
The degree of hemolysis was negatively correlated with GA levels (R2 = 0.9500). A correction equation for GA (corrected GA = 2.703 × OD of hemolysis + 1.044 × measured GA −0.906) can revert GA concentrations of hemolyzed specimens to values that were not significantly different from the GA concentration of corresponding nonhemolyzed specimens. The bias of GA concentrations before and after correction was statistically significantly different (P <.01).

Conclusions
Our results indicate that the level of GA measured through the ketamine oxidase method is negatively affected by hemolysis. The individualized correction of GA results provides increased accuracy in hemolyzed specimens.
Influenza Before the 1890 and 1918 Pandemics in the US Army and at the US Military Academy
Authors: Shanks G Dennis , Eslinger Melissa 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
Influenza rates for the US Army and West Point cadets showed that seasonal influenza was not necessarily an annual event, and there was little influenzal illness in the decade before 1918 except for 1911 and 1916. Annual records from 1862–1918 also indicated a similar paucity of influenzal illness before 1890.
Occupational Risk of Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome in Healthcare Workers
Authors: Yoo Jeong Rae , Choi Jae Hong , Kim Young Ree , Lee Keun Hwa , Heo Sang Taek 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
We identified a healthcare-associated infection of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus (SFTSV), transmitted through direct blood contact with an index case. Following further epidemiological and clinical investigations, we identified SFTSV seropositivity in 2 healthcare workers and 2 family members, who were positive for anti-SFTSV immunoglobin G. It is important to prevent SFTSV transmission by early diagnosis of SFTS and universal precautions.
Biomechanics and Mechanism of Action of Indirect Lumbar Decompression and the Evolution of a Stand-alone Spinous Process Spacer
Authors: Falowski Steven M , Sayed Dawood , Deer Timothy R , Brescacin Dane , Liang Kevin 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Objective
Objective Interspinous process spacers are used in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis by preventing extension at the implanted level and reducing claudication, which is a common symptom of lumbar spinal stenosis. This review assessed the current safety and performance of lumbar spinal stenosis treatments and the biomechanical effects of spinal position, range of motion, and the use of interspinous process spacers.

Method
Method EMBASE and PubMed were searched to find studies reporting on the safety and performance of nonsurgical treatment, including physical therapy and pharmacological treatment, and surgical treatment, including direct and indirect lumbar decompression treatment. Results were supplemented with manual searches to include studies reporting on the use of interspinous process spacers and the review of biomechanical testing performed on the Superion device.

Results
Results The effects of spinal position in extension and flexion have been shown to have an impact in the variation in dimensions of the spinal canal and foramina areas. Overall studies have shown that spinal positions from flexion to extension reduce the spinal canal and foramina dimensions and increase ligamentum flavum thickness. Biomechanical test data have shown that the Superion device resists extension and reduces angular movement at the implantation level and provides significant segmental stability.

Conclusions
Conclusions Superion interspinous lumbar decompression is a minimally invasive, low-risk procedure for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis, which has been shown to have a low safety profile by maintaining sagittal alignment, limiting the potential for device dislodgment or migration, and to preserve mobility and structural elements.
Prevalence of scabies in Sanma Province, Vanuatu
Authors: Callum Jack , McDiarmid Duin , Gao Yu , Armstrong Mark , Iavro Edna , Steer Andrew 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Background
Scabies is a common, under-reported condition in the Pacific with acute and chronic complications. In this study we explored the prevalence of scabies in Sanma Province, Vanuatu.

Methods
We randomly selected 30 villages from nine government zones across three islands and examined residents present within these villages for scabies. Bivariate analysis and multilevel models were conducted to investigate associated demographic and household factors.

Results
Of 1879 participants examined, 563 had scabies (30%, 95% CI 27.9 to 32.1) with the highest prevalence in children aged 6–10 y (38.8%, 95% CI 33.9 to 44).

Conclusions
Scabies is a significant issue in Sanma with very high prevalence in children.
“Doesn’t That Feel Weird?”: How Physicians Reconcile Pregnancy and Parenthood With Abortion Provision [3G]
Authors: McLeod Corinne , Javlekar Ashwini , Flink-Bochacki Rachel 
Published: May 2019

INTRODUCTION:
Support for abortion rights is portrayed as antithetical to family values. With shifting provider demographics, we explored the emotional and ideological effects of pregnancy and parenthood on abortion providers.

METHODS:
We conducted a web-based cross-sectional survey of U.S. abortion providers. We calculated descriptive statistics using Stata SE and utilized an inductive, iterative approach to code free-text responses and identify qualitative themes, organized using Atlas.ti. IRB approval was obtained.

RESULTS:
Of 321 respondents, 227 (70.7%) provided write-in responses, 176 (77.5%) of whom were parents. Qualitative analysis yielded a nested model for understanding the interplay of parenthood and abortion provision: 1) On a societal level, the false dichotomy between “pro-choice” and “pro-child” provokes tension, with providers often erroneously anticipating that parenting will increase the emotional challenges of their work. 2) At the patient level, shared reproductive experiences intensify empathy, often stimulating a stronger therapeutic bond (“A patient asked if I was a mom and when I said I was she said 'well then you understand'”). 3) On the level of pregnancy itself, the juxtaposition of contrasting fetal outcomes forces providers to confront how maternal motivation defines a pregnancy's meaning. 4) At the individual provider level, reconciling identities as both loving parents and reproductive advocates leads to increased passion and commitment to both roles.

CONCLUSION:
We demonstrate a multi-level framework to understand the effects of personal reproductive experiences on abortion providers. Acknowledging both the tension and gratification of these dual roles may humanize abortion providers and promote honesty and camaraderie in the family planning community.
Abnormal 1-Hour Glucose Screen Independently Predicts Fetal Macrosomia and Other Adverse Outcomes [19G]
Authors: Bennett Stevie N. , Sanchez-Ramos Luis , Mitta Melanie I. , Roeckner Jared T. 
Published: May 2019

INTRODUCTION:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Growing evidence suggests mild maternal hyperglycemia is also associated with poor outcomes. Our objective was to assess the association between an abnormal 1-hour 50-gram glucose challenge test (GCT) followed by a normal 3-hour 100-gram glucose tolerance test (GTT) on fetal macrosomia and other adverse outcomes.

METHODS:
Prospective and retrospective studies which the maternal and perinatal impact of an abnormal 50-gram 1-hour glucose challenge test (GCT) followed by a normal 3-hour, 100-g glucose tolerance test (study group) in comparison to patients with a normal GCT (comparison group) were identified using computerized databases. Data were extracted and quantitative analyses were performed.

RESULTS:
We identified 20 studies comprising 10,001 patients with a normal 3 hour GTT after an abnormal 1-hour GCT (study group) and 58,392 patients with a normal GCT. Patients in the study group had an increased risk of macrosomia (RR 1.71, CI 1.50-1.95), shoulder dystocia (RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.09-2.09), cesarean delivery (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.19-1.36), and pre-eclampsia (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.03-2.23). Neonatal birth weight was significantly increased in the study group. The predictive interval for macrosomia indicates that in 95% of future studies, the true effect will range from 1.15-2.5. NICU admission, low Apgar score, hypoglycemia, and respiratory morbidity were not significantly different between groups.

CONCLUSION:
Even in the absence of GDM, patients that fail the GCT test but have a normal GTT are at increased risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity including macrosomia and cesarean delivery.