bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of antiseizure drug efficacy and tolerability in the rat lamotrigine‐resistant amygdala kindling model
Authors: Metcalf Cameron S. , Huff Jennifer , Thomson Kyle E. , Johnson Kristina , Edwards Sharon F. , Wilcox Karen S. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractObjectiveThe lamotrigine‐resistant amygdala kindling model uses repeated administration of a low dose of lamotrigine during the kindling process to produce resistance to lamotrigine, which also extends to some other antiseizure drugs (ASDs). This model of pharmacoresistant epilepsy has been incorporated into the testing scheme utilized by the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP). Although some ASDs have been evaluated in this model, a comprehensive evaluation of ASD prototypes has not been reported.MethodsFollowing depth electrode implantation and recovery, rats were exposed to lamotrigine (5 mg/kg, i.p.) prior to each stimulation during the kindling development process (~3 weeks). A test dose of lamotrigine was used to confirm that fully kindled rats were lamotrigine‐resistant. Efficacy (unambiguous protection against electrically elicited convulsive seizures) was defined as a Racine score < 3 in the absence of overt compound‐induced side effects. Various ASDs, comprising several mechanistic classes, were administered to fully kindled, lamotrigine‐resistant rats. Where possible, multiple doses of each drug were administered in order to obtain median effective dose (ED50) values.ResultsFive sodium channel blockers tested (eslicarbazepine, lacosamide, lamotrigine, phenytoin, and rufinamide) were either not efficacious or effective only at doses that were not well‐tolerated in this model. In contrast, compounds targeting either GABA receptors (clobazam, clonazepam, phenobarbital) or GABA‐uptake proteins (tiagabine) produced dose‐dependent efficacy against convulsive seizures. Compounds acting to modulate Ca2+ channels show differential activity: Ethosuximide was not effective, whereas gabapentin was moderately efficacious. Ezogabine and valproate were also highly effective, whereas topiramate and levetiracetam were not effective at the doses tested.SignificanceThese results strengthen the conclusion that the lamotrigine‐resistant amygdala kindling model demonstrates pharmacoresistance to certain ASDs, including, but not limited to, sodium channel blockers, and supports the utility of the model for helping to identify compounds with potential efficacy against pharmacoresistant seizures.
Antimicrobial resistance and genetic diversity of Salmonella enterica from eggs
Authors: Xie Tengfei , Wu Gang , He Xujun , Lai Zengzhe , Zhang Huatong , Zhao Jing 
Published: August 2019

AbstractSalmonella enterica is a common foodborne pathogen responsible for major global health problems such as paratyphoid fever and gastroenteritis. Here, we report the prevalence, antibiotic resistance phenotypes, serotypes, and molecular subtyping of Salmonella isolated from eggs in Guangdong, China. Out of 1,000 egg samples, 54 (5.40%) were positive. S. Enteritidis made up the largest proportion of samples with 11 serotypes. Antimicrobial susceptibility test indicated that most strains were resistant to β‐lactam, aminoglycoside, and tetracycline antibiotics (27.00%–40.00%). There were 37 STs based on MLST typing. MLST and ERIC‐PCR classified 54 isolates into three and five clusters, respectively, which revealed the genetic relatedness and diversity. In conclusion, frequent monitoring of eggs for Salmonella, antibiotic resistance profiles and genetic diversity is essential for improving food safety.
Perceived level of exertion compared to actual grip force exertion: The 50% phenomenon
Authors: Kong Yong‐Ku , Lee Jun‐Hyub , Lee Ju‐Hee , Shin Jae‐Min , Choi Kyeong‐Hee 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to evaluate perceived exertions for various levels of actual exertion. A total of 40 healthy adults participated. They repeatedly performed the task of exerting a grip force for 5 s, following the target force on a screen. Then, they were asked to evaluate the intensity of each task based on Borg's CR‐10 scale. The results of this study indicated that participants tend to underestimate their grip‐force exertion at low target‐force levels (10–40% maximum voluntary contraction [MVC]), whereas overestimation was found at high target‐force levels (60–80% MVC). Interestingly, perceived exertion was very accurate at a target‐force level of 50% MVC (the 50% phenomenon). Based on these results, regression equations were derived to estimate the actual exertion of grip force from a perceived exertion. The Borg's CR‐10 scale for grip force was revised based on the regression equations.
The effect of family doctor–contracted services on noncommunicable disease self‐management in Shanghai, China
Authors: Huang Jiaoling , Zhang Tao , Wang Luan , Guo Dongfeng , Liu Shanshan , Lu Wei , Liang Hong , Zhang Yimin , Liu Chengjun 
Published: August 2019

SummaryBackgroundNoncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a major threat to population health worldwide. In Shanghai, China, a new pattern of NCD management—self‐management—has been developed in community health service centres (CHSCs).ObjectiveTo clarify how contracting with CHSC‐based family doctors (FDs) influences the engagement in and effectiveness of self‐management behaviour among NCD patients.MethodWe conducted two waves of a questionnaire survey (in 2013 and 2016) to collect data on patients with NCDs. Separate logistic regression models and longitudinal analysis were performed to examine the effect of contracting with an FD on NCD self‐management and the effectiveness of this self‐management.ResultsNearly all contracted patients (80.79%) had implemented NCD self‐management, while only 55.57% of non‐contracted patients did so. The self‐management effectiveness rate was also higher among contracted patients than among non‐contracted ones (86.66% vs. 54.79%). In the population‐averaged models, contracted patients had 2.25 and 2.91 times greater odds of implementing self‐management and reporting that the self‐management was effective, respectively, after controlling for all related variables. Additionally, awareness of FD‐contracted services, satisfaction with CHSCs, and experiencing first contact at CHSCs had positive impacts on the implementation and effectiveness of self‐management.ConclusionsFDs were important for ensuring that NCD patients engaged in self‐management behaviour, the most common form of which was focus group. Participation in NCD focus groups may be key for attaining the effects of self‐management, including improved health knowledge, greater health awareness, more frequent engagement in health behaviour, and, most importantly, greater practice of self‐monitoring. Self‐management might help to achieve greater NCD control.
Retinopathy among Chinese subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Shanghai: A community‐based follow‐up study
Authors: Qin Fei , Jing Limei , Jia Lili , Lou Jieqiong , Feng Yi , Long Wen , Yang Hui , Shi Rong 
Published: August 2019

SummaryObjectiveTo determine the incidence, progression, and regression rates of diabetic retinopathy (DR), as well as their associated factors, in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients.MethodsDiabetic patients who participated in a previous survey were recruited for a 1‐year follow‐up study. Nonmydriatic fundus photographs were acquired to assess the severity of DR as per the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy Disease Severity Scale (2002). Factors that potentially influence DR outcomes, including its incidence, progression, and regression, were identified via statistical analyses.ResultsWe initially recruited 2453 subjects, among whom 2331 were followed and included in the final analysis. The incidences of new and progressed (ie, ≥2 scale steps) DR were 10.6% and 6.1%, respectively. Moreover, 7.3% of patients with established DR at baseline experienced complete regression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that high glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.50, P = .021) and hyperlipidaemia (OR = 1.46, P = .025) were independent predictors of DR development, high HbA1c (OR = 4.16, P = .027) and macroalbuminuria (OR = 5.60, P = .010) predicted DR progression, and low HbA1c (OR = 0.20, P = .001) and low triglyceride levels (OR = 0.34, P = .026) were associated with DR regression.ConclusionsAlbumin and HbA1c levels should be closely monitored as signs of progressive retinal damage in diabetic subjects. Optimized control of glucose and triglyceride levels is vital for reducing the incidence of DR or promoting its regression in afflicted patients.
Maximization of heat transfer density from a vertical array of flat tubes in cross flow under fixed pressure drop using constructal design
Authors: Mustafa Ahmed Waheed , Ghani Ihsan Ali 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe density of heat transfer rate from a vertical array of flat tubes in cross flow is maximized under fixed pressure drop using constructal design. With the constructal design, the tube arrangement is found such that the heat currents from the tubes to the coolant flow easily. The constraint in the present constructal design is the volume where the tubes are arranged inside it. The two degrees of freedom available inside the volume are the tube‐to‐tube spacing and the length of the flat part of the tubes (tube flatness). The tubes are heated with constant surface temperature. The equations of continuity, momentums, and energy for steady, two‐dimensional, and laminar forced convection are solved by means of a finite‐volume method. The ranges of the present study are Bejan number (dimensionless pressure drop) (103 ≤ Be ≤ 105) and tube flatness (dimensionless length of the tube flat part) (0 ≤ F ≤ 0.8). The coolant used is air with Prandtl number (Pr = 0.72). The results reveal that the maximum heat transfer density decreases when the tube flatness decreases at constant Bejan number. At constant tube flatness, the heat transfer density increases as the dimensionless pressure drop (Bejan number) increases. Also, the optimal tube‐to‐tube spacing is constant, irrespective of the tube flatness at constant Bejan number.
Biomechanical and Bone Material Properties of Schnurri‐3 Null Mice
Authors: Hofstaetter Jochen G , Misof Barbara M , Jones Dallas C , Zoehrer Ruth , Blouin Stéphane , Schueler Christiane , Paschalis Eleftherios P , Erben Reinhold G , Weinkamer Richard , Klaushofer Klaus , Roschger Paul 
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACTSchnurri‐3 (Shn3) is an essential regulator of postnatal skeletal remodeling. Shn3‐deficient mice (Shn3–/–) have high bone mass; however, their bone mechanical and material properties have not been investigated to date. We performed three‐point bending of femora, compression tests of L3 vertebrae. We also measured intrinsic material properties, including bone mineralization density distribution (BMDD) and osteocyte lacunae section (OLS) characteristics by quantitative backscatter electron imaging, as well as collagen cross‐linking by Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy of femora from Shn3–/– and WT mice at different ages (6 weeks, 4 months, and 18 months). Moreover, computer modeling was performed for the interpretation of the BMDD outcomes. Femora and L3 vertebrae from Shn3–/– aged 6 weeks revealed increased ultimate force (2.2‐ and 3.2‐fold, p < .01, respectively). Mineralized bone volume at the distal femoral metaphysis was about twofold (at 6 weeks) to eightfold (at 4 and 18 months of age) in Shn3–/– (p < .001). Compared with WT, the average degree of trabecular bone mineralization was similar at 6 weeks, but increased at 4 and 18 months of age (+12.6% and +7.7%, p < .01, respectively) in Shn3–/–. The analysis of OLS characteristics revealed a higher OLS area for Shn3–/– versus WT at all ages (+16%, +23%, +21%, respectively, p < .01). The collagen cross‐link ratio was similar between groups. We conclude that femora and vertebrae from Shn3–/– had higher ultimate force in mechanical testing. Computer modeling demonstrated that in cases of highly increased bone volume, the average degree of bone matrix mineralization can be higher than in WT bone, which was actually measured in the older Shn3–/– groups. The area of 2D osteocyte lacunae sections was also increased in Shn3‐deficiency, which could only partly be explained by larger remnant areas of primary cortical bone. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Failure of internal quality control in detecting significant reagent lot shift in serum creatinine measurement
Authors: Chen Xiaoting , Wang Jia , Zhang Wei , Xie Erfu , Zhang Bingfeng , Xu Hua‐Guo 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundInternal quality control (IQC) in clinical laboratories is carried out to monitor analytical stability. Usually, the satisfactory results of the IQC ensure the acceptability of the examination results. Here, we reported that patients' creatinine results are unreliable, although the internal quality control is satisfactory.MethodsCreatinine levels were analyzed from two quality control materials and twenty patients' specimens using two different lots of reagents. Lot‐to‐lot comparison was performed. The daily median values of serum creatinine levels of patients were calculated from the test results recorded in our laboratory information system.ResultsAlthough IQC was consistent, serum creatinine concentrations were higher using lot B (median: 153 μmol/L; interquartile range: 122‐522 μmol/L) than using lot A (median: 133 μmol/L; interquartile range: 76‐508 μmol/L) for 20 patients (P = .001). The Deming linear regression showed a best fit of y = 0.9394 × x + 45.66. R2 = .8919, and mean percentage difference between two lots was 34%. The new lot was considered unacceptable. Likewise, the median serum creatinine level from the 360 patients using lot B was 102 μmol/L, which was significantly higher than the daily medians of patients using lot A (median: 66 μmol/L; range: 61‐70 μmol/L) in the previous month.ConclusionThe variations in creatinine concentrations proved to be due to different lots of reagents. However, IQC materials tested using both lots of reagent exhibited minimal variation. Therefore, IQC alone is insufficient for assessing laboratory analytical results. This finding prompts us to be vigilant in potential pitfall of interpreting test results based on satisfactory IQC alone.
Assessing the efficacy of TNF‐alpha inhibitors in preventing emergency and emergent colectomies
Authors: Rajan Ruben , Trinder Matthew W , Lo Johnny , Theophilus Mary 
Published: August 2019

Background and AimSevere ulcerative colitis (UC) is potentially life threatening and is associated with significant morbidity. TNF‐∝ inhibitors (Infliximab) were introduced in Australia for the management of medically resistant, acute, severe flares of UC in 2008. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of Infliximab in preventing emergent and emergency colectomies for patients with moderate to severe UC by comparing colectomy rates before and after its introduction at our institution.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of all patients who were admitted to the Royal Perth Hospital with a flare of UC between 2002 and 2017. Patients were divided into two cohorts: those admitted prior to the introduction of Infliximab (pre‐2008) and those admitted after. We compared data between these two groups, including age, gender, length of admission, use of Infliximab, colectomy, and complications of surgery. We defined emergency surgery as requiring surgery during the index admission and emergent surgery as an operation within 54 weeks.ResultsA total of 313 UC cases from 2002 to 2017 were analyzed. There was a decrease in emergency and emergent colectomies from 19.4 to 8% in the post‐2008 cohort (P = 0.008). Furthermore, there was a decrease in the proportion of operations performed as emergencies, from 36 to 20%. This resulted in a significantly reduced length of stay (13.4–9.7 days, P < 0.05) and complication rate (36 to 20%, P < 0.05).ConclusionOverall, the need for emergency and emergent operations has drastically reduced at our institution with the introduction of Infliximab. This study has confirmed the efficacy of Infliximab in reducing colectomy rates at our institution.
Tetrahydrobiopterin treatment in phenylketonuria: A repurposing approach
Authors: Evers Roeland A. F. , van Vliet Danique , van Spronsen Francjan J. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIn phenylketonuria (PKU) patients, early diagnosis by neonatal screening and immediate institution of a phenylalanine‐restricted diet can prevent severe intellectual impairment. Nevertheless, outcome remains suboptimal in some patients asking for additional treatment strategies. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) could be one of those treatment options, as it may not only increase residual phenylalanine hydroxylase activity in BH4‐responsive PKU patients, but possibly also directly improves neurocognitive functioning in both BH4‐responsive and BH4‐unresponsive PKU patients. In the present review, we aim to further define the theoretical working mechanisms by which BH4 might directly influence neurocognitive functioning in PKU having passed the blood‐brain barrier. Further research should investigate which of these mechanisms are actually involved, and should contribute to the development of an optimal BH4 treatment regimen to directly improve neurocognitive functioning in PKU. Such possible repurposing approach of BH4 treatment in PKU may improve neuropsychological outcome and mental health in both BH4‐responsive and BH4‐unresponsive PKU patients.
Catheter ablation of left‐sided accessory pathways in small children
Authors: Fogelman Rami , Birk Einat , Dagan Tamir , Fogelman Michal , Einbinder Tom , Bruckheimer Elchanan , Swissa Moshe 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundAccessory pathways (APs) are a common reason for supraventricular tachycardia in small children. Trans‐septal puncture (TSP) approach is commonly used for the ablation of left‐sided APs, however it may be challenging in small children. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of trans‐septal approach radiofrequency (RF) ablation of left‐sided APs in children weighing up to 30 kg.MethodsOf the 658 children who underwent catheter ablation of APs since 06/2002, 86 children had left‐sided AP and weighed less than 30 kg. TSP approach guided with TEE and fluoroscopy was used for left atrium access.ResultsThe mean age, height, and body weight were 7.6 ± 1.9 years, 122.4 ± 9.3 cm and 24.0 ± 4.2 kg, respectively. Forty‐three children (50%) were male, 46 of 86 (53%) had manifest AP, 17 of 86 (20%) weighed less than 20 kg and in 24 of 86 children (28%) a three‐dimensional system (3DS) was used to reduce fluoroscopy time. The acute success rate was 98.8% (85/86), with a recurrence rate of 2.4% (2/85) in a mean follow‐up of 66.2 ± 42.7 (9.1‐184.2) months. The mean procedure time and fluoroscopy time were significantly lower for the 3DS group compared to the standard fluoroscopy group 131 ± 41 (55‐262) and 2.4 ± 1.5 (1‐6) minutes vs 164 ± 51 (62‐249) and 27 ± 13 (8‐77) minutes, P < 0.01 and P < 0.0001, respectively. There were no ablation‐related complications.ConclusionsRF ablation of left‐sided APs using TSP approach in small children had an excellent efficacy and safety profile. The use of 3DS significantly reduces the procedure and fluoroscopy time.
The suction‐assisted endoscopic suture technique: A simple method for endotracheal suturing
Authors: Charous Steven J. , Westfall Edward 
Published: August 2019

BackgroundSilicone stents are commonly employed to treat subglottic stenosis. A frequent complication is the tendency of stents to migrate. As such, various techniques to secure stents have been developed over the years, none of which have gained large popularity. We present a novel, low‐cost, and easy‐to‐perform technique herein.ObjectivesTo describe a novel surgical technique to secure silicone stents and prevent migration for management of subglottic stenosis.Materials and MethodsAfter standard excision and dilation of stenotic portions in the subglottic or trachea. A silicone stent is introduced in a standard fashion. To secure the stent, an 18‐G needle loaded with braided suture is inserted through skin, trachea, and stent. Endoscopic visualization then permits the surgeon to grasp the suture with forceps. A separate transcutaneous puncture site is performed with an 18‐G needle attached to a 10‐cc syringe (plunger removed) and blue tip suction within the empty syringe, creating an airtight suctioning tool. The grasped suture is gently introduced into the eye of the needle and quickly travels into the 10‐cc syringe with suction assist, leaving both extracorporeal ends of the suture to tie.ResultsThis stitch has been employed on seven occasions on four patients. There have been no episodes of stent migration. A laboratory model found the 18‐G needle and braided 3‐0 suture performed optimally.ConclusionsWe present a novel surgical technique to secure silicone stents in management subglottic or tracheal stenosis.Level of EvidenceLevel 4Laryngoscope, 130:E346–E348, 2020
Drug‐Loaded Elastin‐Like Polypeptide–Collagen Hydrogels with High Modulus for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Pal Pallabi , Nguyen Quynh C. , Benton Angela H. , Marquart Mary E. , Janorkar Amol V. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractEmphasizing the role of hydrogel stiffness and cellular differentiation, this study develops collagen and elastin‐like polypeptide (ELP)–based bone regenerative hydrogels loaded with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2) and doxycycline with mechanical properties suitable for osteogenesis. The drug‐incorporated collagen–ELP hydrogels has significantly higher modulus of 35 ± 5 kPa compared to collagen‐only hydrogels. Doxycycline shows a bi‐phasic release with an initial burst release followed by a gradual release, while rhBMP‐2 exhibits a nearly linear release profile for all hydrogels. The released doxycycline shows anti‐microbial activity againstPseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus sanguinis, andEscherichia coli. Microscopic observation of the hydrogels reveals their interconnected, macroporous, 3D open architecture with pore diameters between 160 and 400 µm. This architecture supports human adipose–derived stem cell attachment and proliferation from initial days of cell seeding, forming a thick cellular sheath by day 21. Interestingly, in collagen and collagen–ELP hydrogels, cell morphology is elongated with stretched slender lamellipodial formation, while cells assemble as spheroidal aggregates in crosslinked as well as drug‐loaded hydrogels. Osteogenic markers, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin, are expressed maximally for drug‐loaded hydrogels compared to those without drugs. The drug‐loaded collagen–ELP hydrogels are thus promising for combating bacterial infection and promoting guided bone regeneration.