bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of Dual X‐ray Absorptiometry in men with advanced cirrhosis to predict sarcopenia‐associated mortality risk
Authors: Sinclair Marie , Hoermann Rudolf , Peterson Adam , Testro Adam , Angus Peter W. , Hey Penelope , Chapman Brooke , Gow Paul J. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractIntroductionReduced muscle area onCTscan is an independent predictor of mortality in cirrhosis. We examine for the first time the relationship between dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) lean mass parameters on outcomes in cirrhotic men awaiting liver transplantation.Materials and MethodsWe retrospectively reviewedDEXAscans performed during transplant assessment between 2001 and 2016. Baseline data including the presence of ascites andMELDscore were recorded.DEXAlean mass measures were adjusted for height. The primary outcome was 12‐month wait‐list mortality.ResultsFour hundred twenty men with median age 55.4 years [interquartile range 49.2; 59.4] andMELD16 [12; 20] were studied. Median follow‐up was 58.5 [28.8; 109] months. 12‐month wait‐list mortality was 12.4%. Appendicular lean mass was inversely associated with mortality (HR0.78 [0.62; 0.98],P = 0.03). Lean mass of arms (HR0.37 [0.16; 0.83],P = 0.02) rather than legs (HR0.77 [0.58; 1.03],P = 0.08) was responsible for this association. Upper limb lean mass showed a significant interaction withMELDscore in predicting wait‐list mortality, particularly within 4 months. Total lean mass was not associated with mortality but increased in conjunction with increasing ascites (ORfor ascites 1.20 [1.15; 1.25],P < 0.001 for each unit increase inMELD).ConclusionUpper limb lean mass byDEXAis strongly associated with mortality in men awaiting liver transplantation. The superiority of upper limb lean mass probably relates to confounding of lower limb measures by fluid retention. ThisDEXAparameter represents a novel and reproducible measure of sarcopenia in cirrhosis.
Community‐based father education intervention on breastfeeding practice—Results of a quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Bich Tran Huu , Long Tran Khanh , Hoa Dinh Phuong 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAlthough the benefits of breastfeeding are well‐documented, little is known about how best to encourage fathers to support breastfeeding. A quasi‐experimental study of a community‐based intervention was designed to examine whether health education to promote fathers' involvement in supporting women is associated with early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding practices. At baseline, 802 couples of fathers with pregnant wives from 12 to 27 weeks of gestational age were recruited to either the intervention group (n = 390) or a control group (n = 412) consisting of couples seeking care through routine maternal and child health services. Fathers in the intervention area received breastfeeding education and counselling services in health facilities and at home visits during the antenatal, delivery, and post‐partum periods. Peer education and social exchange concerning breastfeeding were organized in fathers' clubs. After 1 year of the intervention, mothers in the intervention group were more likely to initiate early breastfeeding 49.2 and 35.8% in the intervention and control group respectively, P < 0.001. At 1, 4, and 6 months after birth, 34.8, 18.7, and 1.9% of the mothers in the intervention group were exclusively breastfeeding their children because of birth, respectively, compared with 5.7, 4.0, and 0.0% of those in the control group (P < 0.001). Those practices were associated with the intervention in bivariate and multivariate logistic and Cox regression analyses. Intervention targeting fathers at antenatal and postnatal periods may positively influence the breastfeeding practices of mothers, and it should be an important component of breastfeeding programs.
Performance of low‐literate community health workers treating severe acute malnutrition in South Sudan
Authors: Van Boetzelaer Elburg , Zhou Annie , Tesfai Casie , Kozuki Naoko 
Published: February 2019

AbstractPrevious studies have described barriers to access of childhood severe acute malnutrition (SAM) treatment, including long travel distances and high opportunity costs. To increase access in remote communities, the International Rescue Committee developed a simplified SAM treatment protocol and low‐literacy‐adapted tools for community‐based distributors (CBD, the community health worker cadre in South Sudan) to deliver treatment in the community.A mixed‐methods pilot study was conducted to assess whether low‐literate CBDs can adhere to a simplified SAM treatment protocol and to examine the community acceptability of CBDs providing treatment. Fifty‐seven CBDs were randomly selected to receive training. CBD performance was assessed immediately after training, and 44 CBDs whose performance score met a predetermined standard were deployed to test the delivery of SAM treatment in their communities. CBDs were observed and scored on their performance on a biweekly basis through the study.Immediately after training, 91% of the CBDs passed the predetermined 80% performance score cut‐off, and 49% of the CBDs had perfect scores. During the study, 141 case management observations by supervisory staff were conducted, resulting in a mean score of 89.9% (95% CI: 86.4%–96.0%). For each performance supervision completed, the final performance score of the CBD rose by 2.0% (95% CI: 0.3%–3.7%), but no other CBD characteristic was associated with the final performance score.This study shows that low‐literate CBDs in South Sudan were able to follow a simplified treatment protocol for uncomplicated SAM with high accuracy using low‐literacy‐adapted tools, showing promise for increasing access to acute malnutrition treatment in remote communities.
Perspectives on maternal, infant, and young child nutrition and family planning: Considerations for rollout of integrated services in Mara and Kagera, Tanzania
Authors: Cooper Chelsea M. , Kavle Justine A. , Nyoni Joyce , Drake Mary , Lemwayi Ruth , Mabuga Lemmy , Pfitzer Anne 
Published: February 2019

AbstractIn Lake Zone, Tanzania, low contraceptive prevalence, closely spaced births, and child stunting are common. Synergies exist between postpartum family planning (PPFP) and maternal, infant, and young child nutrition (MIYCN), yet health services are often provided in silos. This qualitative formative research study aimed to identify barriers and facilitating factors for optimal nutrition and PPFP practices in Mara and Kagera, Tanzania. Results informed the program design of an integrated nutrition and family planning (FP) implementation approach. The study involved in‐depth interviews with mothers of infants under 1 year (n = 24), grandmothers (n = 12), health providers (n = 6), and traditional birth attendants (n = 12), and 14 focus group discussions with community health workers, fathers, and community leaders. Findings reveal that breastfeeding initiation was often delayed, and prelacteal feeding was common. Respondents linked insufficient breast milk to inadequate maternal nutrition—in terms of the quality of the diet and small quantities of food consumed by mothers. Breast milk insufficiency was addressed through early introduction of foods and liquids. Mothers believed that breastfeeding prevents pregnancy, regardless of the frequency or duration of breastfeeding, yet were generally not aware of the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) of FP. Joint decision‐making on FP was viewed as important, and women often discussed it with their partner. Future programming should address misconceptions about return to fecundity knowledge gaps and concerns about FP methods including LAM; and perceptions regarding insufficient breast milk and early introduction of foods which are impediments to optimal MIYCN and FP practices.
Substrate‐dependent cluster density dynamics of Corynebacterium glutamicum phosphotransferase system permeases
Authors: Martins Gustavo Benevides , Giacomelli Giacomo , Goldbeck Oliver , Seibold Gerd M. , Bramkamp Marc 
Published: February 2019

SummaryMany bacteria take up carbohydrates by membrane‐integral sugar specific phosphoenolpyruvate‐dependent carbohydrate:phosphotransferase systems (PTS). Although the PTS is centrally involved in regulation of carbon metabolism in different bacteria, little is known about localization and putative oligomerization of the permease subunits (EII). Here, we analyzed localization of the fructose specific PtsF and the glucose specific PtsG transporters, as well as the general components EI and HPr from Corynebacterium glutamicum using widefield and single molecule localization microscopy. PtsF and PtsG form membrane embedded clusters that localize in a punctate pattern. Size, number and fluorescence of the membrane clusters change upon presence or absence of the transported substrate, and a direct influence of EI and HPr was not observed. In presence of the transport substrate, EII clusters significantly increased in size. Photo‐activated localization microscopy data revealed that, in presence of different carbon sources, the number of EII proteins per cluster remains the same, however, the density of these clusters reduces. Our work reveals a simple mechanism for efficient membrane occupancy regulation. Clusters of PTS EII transporters are densely packed in absence of a suitable substrate. In presence of a transported substrate, the EII proteins in individual clusters occupy larger membrane areas.
Long term persistence of introduced Amblyomma geoemydae tick population under indoor conditions in Austria
Authors: Bilbija B. , Auer M. , Široký P. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAn indoor terrarium population of Amblyomma geoemydae was established subsequent to the import of a single yellow‐marginated box turtle Cuora flavomarginata. This indoor tick population revealed an unexpected resistance against de‐ticking trials, with persistence between 2010 and 2015, when the ticks were successfully eliminated. Ticks were collected from the bodies and shells of turtles, as well as from terraria soil. Species diagnosis of ticks was carried out according to distinguishable morphological characters and supported by molecular analysis using DNA‐barcoding. Introduced exotic ticks are potential vectors of pathogens and can have an impact on wildlife, domestic animals and the human population. This case emphasizes the need for sharp surveillance and control measures on imported reptiles.
High‐fat diets reduce male reproductive success in animal models: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Crean Angela J. , Senior Alistair M. 
Published: February 2019

SummarySperm counts have shown a progressive decline across the world since the mid‐1900s. Global rates of obesity have been climbing at a similarly alarming rate, suggesting that these two factors may be linked. However, studies examining the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and male fertility have produced conflicting results. These discrepancies among studies are commonly attributed to limitations that are inherent in human studies such as correlational data and confounding factors—limitations that are absent from animal studies. Hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of animal studies that experimentally induced obesity with a high‐fat diet and measured impacts on sperm traits and/or male fertility. Overall, we found strong, consistent evidence in animal studies that high‐fat diets are detrimental for male fertility. Compared with controls, males fed a high‐fat diet had smaller testes and sex accessory glands relative to body size, reduced semen quality, reduced mating success, and reduced fertilization success. This is the first time that experimental data of high‐fat diet effects on male reproduction have been synthesized in a meta‐analysis, and thus, our results provide novel insight to the complex question of how dietary‐induced obesity affects male fertility. The strong negative effects detected in animal models suggest that the inconsistent results plaguing human studies are an artefact of limitations inherent in correlational studies rather than a true effect.
Autophagy‐related gene expression regulated by HIF‐1α in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Liu Chao , Li Shengfeng , Pang Fawei , Wu Haiwei , Chai Li , Liang Cheng , Zhang Dongsheng 
Published: February 2019

AbstractObjectivesSalivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) is one of the most common malignant salivary gland tumors. Our study aims to investigate whether hypoxia‐induced autophagy was up‐regulated in the progression of SACC.Materials and methodsWe performed differentially expressed gene analysis and pathway enrichment analysis and then calculated the correlation analysis on GSE59701 and GSE28996 datasets. The expression of HIF‐1ɑ and MAP1LC3B was analyzed in the paraffin‐embedded specimens by immunohistochemical method and in the hypoxic SACC‐LM cells by immunofluorescence. TEM microscopy was also performed to observe the formation of autophagosomes in SACC tissue and the hypoxic SACC‐LM cells.ResultsThe autophagy pathway was up‐regulated in SACC datasets, and five genes including MAP1LC3B were positively correlated with HIF‐1ɑ. Immunohistochemistry results showed that autophagy was activated and the expression of HIF‐1ɑ and MAP1LC3B was positively correlated in SACC specimens. In hypoxic SACC‐LM cells, we also identified the up‐regulation of autophagy and the close correlation between HIF‐1ɑ and MAP1LC3B expression. Autophagosomes were observed both in the tissue and the hypoxic SACC‐LM cells by TEM microscopy.ConclusionsOur study showed that autophagy is up‐regulated in dataset, SACC tissue, and hypoxic cell line; hypoxia‐induced autophagy in SACC might play a vital role in the development of SACC.
Trichoscopy features of trichotillomania
Authors: Martín José M. , Montesinos Encarnacion , Cordero Pilar , Gonzalez Victor , Ramon Dolores 
Published: February 2019

AbstractTrichotillomania is a form of traction alopecia resulting from repetitive and compulsive hair pulling and plucking. Trichotillomania and patchy alopecia areata may have similar clinical and dermoscopic features in some cases. On trichoscopic examination, the presence of black dots, coiled or hook hair, shafts of varying lengths with fraying or split ends (trichoptilosis), and an absence of exclamation mark hairs and yellow dots are suggestive of trichotillomania.
The risk of using monoclonal or polyclonal commercial antibodies: controversial results on porcine sperm CD44 receptor identification
Authors: Alvarez‐Rodriguez Manuel , López‐Bejar Manel , Rodriguez‐Martinez Heriberto 
Published: February 2019

ContentsPresence of the hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid, HA) receptor CD44 on spermatozoa has been difficult to pursue, mostly obeying to the use of different commercial mono‐ and/or polyclonal antibodies, often lacking proper controls. Here, we describe how the presence (Western blotting) and specific location (immunocytochemistry) of the CD44 receptor differs in ejaculated pig spermatozoa depending on the type of antibody and protocol used. While we were able to detect binding to spermatozoa and mark its presence in the sperm membrane, the use of blocking peptides clearly indicated that only the monoclonal antibody could confirm the specific presence and location of the CD44 receptor, whereas the polyclonal antibody was detecting multiple presumed CD44 isoforms or degraded proteins thus proving unspecific. These results call for strict protocols when attempting immunological determination of sperm membrane receptors.
An Empiricist View on Laws, Quantities and Physical Necessity
Authors: Johansson Lars‐Göran 
Published: February 2019

AbstractIn this article I argue for an empiricist view on laws. Some laws are fundamental in the sense that they are the result of inductive generalisations of observed regularities and at the same time in their formulation contain a new theoretical predicate. The inductive generalisations simultaneously function as implicit definitions of these new predicates. Other laws are either explicit definitions or consequences of other previously established laws. I discuss the laws of classical mechanics, relativity theory and electromagnetism in detail. Laws are necessary, whereas accidental generalisations are not. But necessity here is not a modal concept, but rather interpreted as short for the semantic predicate “... is necessarily true”. Thus no modal logic is needed. The necessity attributed to law sentences is in turn interpreted as “necessary condition for the rest of the theory”, which is true since fundamental laws are implicit definitions of theoretical predicates use in the theory.
Cytokine profile in lung transplant recipients with Aspergillus spp colonization
Authors: Herrera Sabina , Gohir Wajiha , Foroutan Farid , Aguilar Claire , Juvet Stephen , Martinu Tereza , Kumar Deepali , Humar Atul , Rotstein Coleman , Keshavjee Shaf , Singer Lianne G. , Husain Shahid 
Published: February 2019

AbstractWe studied cytokine profiles in BAL of LTRs with Aspergillus spp colonization who did not progress to IPA in the absence of antifungal prophylaxis. This was a retrospective, single center case‐control study. BAL samples were analyzed for cytokines. Patients with Aspergillus spp in BAL who did not receive prophylaxis and did not develop IPA were compared to LTRs with Aspergillus spp that received prophylaxis, LTRs with IPA and controls. Twenty‐one patients with Aspergillus colonization who did not develop IPA, seven patients with suspected IPA who received prophylaxis, 4 IPA and 19 controls were included. IPA group had significantly higher levels (median [IQR]) of MIP‐1 beta compared to the Suspected IPA group (5 vs 5 P: 0.03). The Suspected IPA group had significantly higher levels of IL‐12 (11.38 vs 1 P: 0.0001), IL‐1 RA (86.11 vs 23.98 P: 0.0118), IP‐10 (22.47 vs 0.86 P: 0.0151), HGF (40.92 vs 16.82 P: 0.0055), and MIG (169.62 vs 5 P: 0.0005) than Colonization group. We have identified a unique cytokine signature in patients with Aspergillus colonization that do not develop IPA. Our study forms basis for a larger study to use these cytokines profile to identify patients at a lower risk of developing IPA.
Evaluation of peripheral blood mononuclear cell collection by leukapheresis
Authors: Chen Jian , Goss Cheryl , Avecilla Scott T. , Hong Hong , Walsh Eileen , Wuest David , Maslak Peter , Pessin Melissa S. 
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUNDAdoptive immunotherapy using engineered lymphocytes has shown promising results in treating cancers even in patients who have failed other treatments. As the first essential step, the number of peripheral mononuclear cell (MNC) collection procedures is rapidly increasing. In this retrospective study, we reviewed the collection results to determine factors that affect MNC collection.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSWe reviewed 184 collections that were performed on 169 adult allogenic donors and patients with acute lymphoid leukemia, chronic lymphoid leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or solid‐organ tumors. All the leukapheresis procedures were performed after a complete cell count with differential was obtained. Total blood volume (TBV) was defined as processed blood volume divided by patient blood volume.RESULTSThere was a significant association between the precollection MNC count (pre‐MNC) and the MNC yields normalized by TBV (r = 0.926; p < 0.001) and a regression formula was created to predict MNC yields. Multiple regression analyses showed that pre‐MNC, TBV, and precollection hemoglobin were strongly associated with MNC yield (R
2 = 0.866; F (3180) = 388.472; p < 0.001), and pre‐MNC had the greatest influence on MNC yield (β = 0.960; p < 0.001) followed by TBV (β = 0.302; p < 0.001), and Hgb (β = 0.136; p < 0.001).CONCLUSIONOur results suggest that the optimal time for MNC collection can be determined based on pre‐MNC and that processing volume should be determined based on collection goal and pre‐MNC to optimize and personalize the harvesting procedure.
CD4+ T‐cell lymphopenia in frequent platelet donors who have ceased platelet donation for at least 1 year
Authors: Rahmani Mahboubeh , Fortin Brooke M. , Berliner Nancy , Issa Nicolas , Neuberg Donna , Kaufman Richard M. , Gansner John M. 
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUNDWe recently discovered that 30% of current frequent apheresis platelet donors in a study at our donor center had CD4+ counts below 200 cells/μL. How long CD4+ lymphopenia persists after ceasing plateletpheresis is unknown. Whether there are infectious or other complications in former frequent donors that could relate to CD4+ lymphopenia is also unknown.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSWe mailed a letter to former frequent apheresis platelet donors who had not donated platelets for at least 12 months. Frequent donation was defined as 20 to 24 plateletpheresis sessions in at least one 365‐day period starting in 2011. Donors who expressed interest in the study were contacted to schedule a study visit. Participants in the study provided a blood sample and completed a health questionnaire that included questions about opportunistic infections and malignancies.RESULTSOf 50 potential study candidates who were mailed a letter, 15 participated in the study. There were 2 participants with CD4+ counts below 200 cells/μL, one of whom had prior counts that documented a small improvement with cessation of plateletpheresis. Three participants had counts between 200 and 300 cells/μL. No study participant had a history of an opportunistic infection or a malignancy associated with immune dysregulation.CONCLUSIONWe detected CD4+ lymphopenia in former frequent apheresis platelet donors who had ceased platelet donation for more than 1 year. There was no evidence that the CD4+ lymphopenia predisposes to opportunistic infections or to malignancies associated with immune dysregulation.
Treatment of leiomyosarcoma in a tiger (Panthera tigris) with stereotactic radiotherapy
Authors: Boudreaux Bonnie B. , LaRue Susan M. , Rademacher Nathalie , Neck Daniel , Grasperge Britton , Wood Charles , Baker David G. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractA 10‐year‐old male captive tiger (Panthera tigris) developed right‐sided facial asymmetry and enlargement. Computed tomography revealed a destructive mass of the right maxillary bone with right nasal cavity involvement. Histopathology indicated a spindle cell sarcoma. A single fraction of 22 Gy using stereotactic radiotherapy was prescribed. After treatment, the facial conformation returned to normal and the tiger resumed normal behavior. Diagnostics 4 months later indicated severe metastatic disease. Humane euthanasia and necropsy were performed. This is the first case utilizing stereotactic radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer in a tiger.