bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Perioperative subconjunctival triamcinolone acetonide injection for prevention of inflammation and macular oedema after cataract surgery
Authors: Lindholm Juha‐Matti , Taipale Claudia , Ylinen Petteri , Tuuminen Raimo 
Published: June 2019

AbstractPurposeTo compare the efficacy, safety and tolerability of a single perioperative subconjunctival injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) with steroid drops for the prevention of macular oedema and ocular inflammation after cataract surgery.MethodsThis prospective non‐randomized controlled clinical trial analysed 101 eyes of 101 patients having an elective cataract surgery at Kymenlaakso Central Hospital, Kotka, Finland. Fifty eyes received conventional postoperative care with dexamethasone 1 mg/ml eye drops (DEX), and 51 eyes received a perioperative 20 mg subconjunctival injection of TA. None of the eyes received postoperative topical antibiotic prophylaxis. The main outcome measures were aqueous flare, central retinal thickness (CRT), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and intraocular pressure (IOP) measured at 7, 28 and 90 days after surgery.ResultsCentral retinal thickness (CRT) increased in DEX but not in TA‐treated eyes at 7 days (+1.2 ± 20.1 μm and −9.2 ± 24.8 μm, p = 0.031), at 28 days (+23.8 ± 62.6 μm and −3.3 ± 27.7 μm, p = 0.008) and at 90 days (+8.5 ± 24.4 μm and −5.5 ± 33.4 μm, p = 0.026). Aqueous flare increased from baseline in both groups but remained higher in DEX eyes at 90 days (+3.3 ± 9.9 photons/ms and −0.2 ± 6.6 photons/ms, p = 0.021). Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and IOP changes were similar, and ocular tolerance was good in both groups. No serious adverse events were observed.ConclusionsPerioperative subconjunctival TA was effective in preventing ocular inflammation and macular oedema after cataract surgery. Subconjunctival TA combined with intracameral cefuroxime provides a noteworthy option for dropless postoperative care in modern cataract surgery.
Throwing our bodies against the white background of academia
Authors: Johnson Azeezat 
Published: June 2019

This paper addresses the difficulty of conducting research about non‐white racialised persons while working within predominantly white academic institutions. Specifically, I examine how to conduct research without representing Black bodies as a fixed, exoticised Other that is oppositional to a disembodied white Self. To do so, I use double consciousness alongside Black feminist work on dialogues as a methodological framework to centre Black Muslim women as knowledge producers. This novel approach moves away from simply describing (and fixing) racialised bodies to a particular performance/experience, and instead explores how performances shift as we negotiate different bodies, objects, and spaces. The paper advances discussions in critical race studies and the ethics of geographical research by illustrating how the situated experiences of the researcher and the participant are embedded in processes of knowledge production: I look to subvert the fixing of racialised bodies as deviations from the normative white background of academia.
Hunting practices in northern Australia and their implication for disease transmission between community dogs and wild dogs
Authors: Gabriele‐Rivet V , Brookes VJ , Arsenault J , Ward MP 
Published: June 2019

ObjectiveThis survey aimed to understand hunting practices involving domestic dogs in remote Indigenous communities in northern Australia and, in the context of disease transmission, describe the domestic–wild dog interface and intercommunity interactions of hunting dogs during hunting activities.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey of 13 hunters from communities of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) of Queensland gathered information on demographics of hunters and hunting dogs, hunting practices and past encounters with wild dogs during hunting trips. Social networks that described the connections of hunters between NPA communities from hunting expeditions were developed.ResultsMost hunters interviewed were not aware of any diseases that could be transmitted to dogs (n = 11) or humans (n = 9) from wild animals while hunting. More than half (n = 7) of the respondents had experienced at least one wild dog encounter during hunting in the year prior to the interview. A map of the relative risk of interactions between wild and hunting dogs during hunting trips allowed the identification of high‐risk areas in the NPA; these areas are characterised by dense rainforests. The social networks at the community level resulted in relatively large density measures reflecting a high level of intercommunity connectedness.ConclusionsThis study contributes to our knowledge of Australian Indigenous hunting practices and supports the potential for disease transmission at the domestic–wild dog interface and intercommunity level through contacts between hunting dogs during hunting activities. Insights from this study also highlight the need for educational programs on disease management in Indigenous communities of northern Australia.
Remote sensing of coastal vegetation: Dealing with high species turnover by mapping multiple floristic gradients
Authors: Unberath Iris , Vanierschot Laura , Somers Ben , Van De Kerchove Ruben , Vanden Borre Jeroen , Unberath Mathias , Feilhauer Hannes 
Published: June 2019

AbstractAimsMapping gradual transitions in plant species composition via a combination of ordination and regression from remote sensing data is becoming an established approach. However, straightforward analysis of areas with high species turnover rates may result in a loss of information since a high level of generalization is required. In this study, we investigate whether analysis of more homogeneous subsets, in contrast to processing of the complete dataset, is a viable approach to mapping multiple floristic gradients.LocationThe coastal nature reserve “Zwin” (Belgium).MethodsThe measured dataset is partitioned into more homogeneous subsets based upon species composition using hierarchical classification. The dataset and subsets are then processed separately. First, ordination is performed to extract floristic gradients in plant species composition; second, these gradients are related to airborne hyperspectral remote sensing data through regression models and mapped by projecting these models on image data. Regression validation and Mantel tests are used to compare the results within the study and to other studies.ResultsHierarchical classification resulted in two homogeneous vegetation subsets. Ordination yielded four gradients in the area and all regression models compared favorably to similar studies in other areas with R² values ranging from 0.47 to 0.74. The Mantel test showed that by dividing the dataset into subsets, higher resemblance to the original vegetation data can be achieved.ConclusionWe showed that mapping gradual transitions in plant species composition across multiple subsets sampled from one measured vegetation dataset is a promising approach for retrospective analysis of areas with high species turnover rates. In addition to potential improvements in performance, this complementary analysis enables mapping of additional gradients, suggesting that all conventionally predicted maps remain available, valuable, and necessary for thorough understanding of plant species composition.
Preschool developmental concerns and adjustment in the early school years: Evidence from a Scottish birth cohort
Authors: Sim Fiona , Thompson Lucy , Marryat Louise , Law James , Wilson Philip 
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackgroundPreschool language and behavioural difficulties impact on multiple domains of the child's early life and can endure into adulthood, predicting poor educational, social, and health outcomes. Highlighting risk factors associated with poor outcomes following language and behavioural difficulties raised in early childhood may facilitate early identification and intervention.MethodsData from the Growing Up in Scotland national birth cohort study were used. Language and behavioural difficulties were assessed at age 4 years using parent‐reported language concerns and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Measures of adjustment were collated into four key outcome domains: attitude to school life, language and general development, behaviour, and general health at age 6 years. Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted in order to explore independent associations between language and behavioural difficulties at age 4 years and adjustment to life circumstances at age 6 years, whilst controlling for other risk factors.ResultsLanguage difficulties at age 4 years increased the odds of the child experiencing difficulty with language and general development, poorer health outcomes, and behavioural difficulties at age 6 years. Behavioural difficulties alone at age 4 years were associated with increased odds of the child experiencing all of the aforementioned outcomes and difficulties in early school life. Lone parent family, low income, and male gender were identified as risk factors for poorer outcomes in the domains measured. At age 4 years, there was no additive effect found with the presence of behaviour difficulties on the relationship between language difficulties and language and developmental outcomes at 6 years.ConclusionsThis paper demonstrates language and behavioural difficulties are associated with poor social, educational, health, and behavioural outcomes. Taking seriously parent‐reported concerns and identifying risk factors could limit negative outcomes for the child, their family, and society.
The experiences of young people with chronic illness in New Zealand: A qualitative study
Authors: Sligo Judith , Jones Bernadette , Davies Cheryl , Egan Richard , Ingham Tristram , Hancox Robert J. , Richards Rosalina 
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackgroundAround 10% of young people suffer from chronic health conditions, and their health care needs are different from those of children or adults. Most research about young people's chronic illness focuses on specific conditions, on younger children's experience, and on the perspectives of parents. This study explored the experiences of young people with two very different chronic conditions (asthma and cancer) and their perception of the New Zealand health system's response to their needs.MethodsThis was a collaborative research process where eight young co‐researchers who had asthma or cancer were employed to work alongside the research team to develop protocols, interview peers, and assist with analysis. The challenges of this process are described in the article. Twenty‐one young people between ages 15 and 27 from two urban areas of New Zealand participated in semistructured open‐ended interviews about their health care experiences. Sixteen participants were female, and five male. Eleven of the participants had finished cancer treatment (with an average of 3.6 years since diagnosis), and 10 had asthma. Purposeful sampling meant that 80% of the participants with asthma were identified as Māori and the other participants identified with a range of other ethnic groups. Data were thematically coded, and coresearchers were consulted to derive the ultimate findings.ResultsChronic illness disrupted the trajectory of young people's lives and had significant effects on their relationships. The New Zealand health system generally did not respond well to the needs of these young people, but many encountered extraordinary individuals who supported them effectively. The experiences of some indigenous participants indicate that health professionals require effective cultural competence training.ConclusionsThis study provides insights into how young people with very different conditions experience the health system. Young people should be consulted and actively included in decision making about making health systems responsive to their diverse needs.
Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in population‐based studies: A systematic review of the methodological aspects
Authors: da Silva Karine D. , de O. da Rosa Wellington L. , Sarkis‐Onofre Rafael , Aitken-Saavedra Juan P. , Demarco Flávio F. , Correa Marcos B. , Tarquinio Sandra B. C. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractObjectivesTo conduct a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the methodological aspects of population‐based studies on the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions (OMLs).MethodsTwo reviewers independently conducted a literature search in three databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus) and extracted data using a standardized form. Data on the following characteristics of the included studies were collected: sample size; age of participants; references used to define the diagnostic criteria, training of the examiners, and data collection; type, grouping and characteristics of the lesions; and lesions excluded and measures of agreement between examiners. Data were analysed descriptively, and data synthesis was performed for each of the studies included in the analysis. A quality analysis of the studies was conducted, and the risk of bias was evaluated.ResultsA total of 29 studies were included in the analysis. Most of the published studies on the prevalence of OMLs were performed in Asian countries. The sample sizes ranged from 255 to 39 206. The World Health Organization guidelines were followed by most of the studies, in terms of design, examiner training and data collection. Approximately 25% of the studies did not determine inter‐examiner reliability. Moreover, almost half of the studies included did not report the response rate nor did they present the results with the appropriate confidence intervals.ConclusionsSeveral important points need to be improved in population‐based studies focusing on the prevalence of OMLs. In particular, these studies should adequately report the response rate and findings, and to a lesser extent, the diagnostic criteria and training of the examiners. We encourage more research in this field and reinforce the importance of standardized studies to facilitate the comparison of different findings. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018099386.
Transnational review of visual standards for driving: How Australia compares with the rest of the world
Authors: Yan Mabel K. , Kumar Himeesh , Kerr Nathan , Medeiros Felipe A. , Sandhu Sukhpal S. , Crowston Jonathan , Kong Yu X. G. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractImportanceDriving is a highly visual task and a primary mode of transportation for many people around the world.BackgroundThere appears to be little uniformity of vision standards across the world for driving. We reviewed the basic screening visual requirements for obtaining standard private and commercial driving licences for a total of 70 jurisdictions, and reviewed the evidence behind these standards.DesignSystematic review of basic screening vision standards worldwide for driving and literature review.SamplesPublished online documentation on visual acuity and field requirements for driving.MethodsJournal articles, government reports and websites obtained via a Google search were used to review the regulations for driving. This was limited by the comprehensiveness of resources, and countries were excluded if the requirements were unclear or unattainable. A literature review was performed using Medline with keywords vision, driving and visual field.Main Outcome MeasuresVisual parameters used for driving assessment.ResultsThe results suggest significant variations across the world. The visual acuity requirements for a private licence range from a minimum of 6/9 to 6/60. The minimum binocular horizontal field requirement ranges from 110° to 150°. In general, standards for a commercial licence are stricter compared to a private licence. A literature review could not support the current driving standards as evidence‐based.Conclusions and RelevanceThe disunity of driving vision requirements worldwide likely reflects the inconclusive evidence base. Accounting for individual differences and the ability to predict individual risk is important in the context of determining driving licensure.
Reserve design to optimize functional connectivity and animal density
Authors: Gupta Amrita , Dilkina Bistra , Morin Dana J. , Fuller Angela K. , Royle J. Andrew , Sutherland Christopher , Gomes Carla P. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractEcological distance‐based spatial capture–recapture models (SCR) are a promising approach for simultaneously estimating animal density and connectivity, both of which affect spatial population processes and ultimately species persistence. We explored how SCR models can be integrated into reserve‐design frameworks that explicitly acknowledge both the spatial distribution of individuals and their space use resulting from landscape structure. We formulated the design of wildlife reserves as a budget‐constrained optimization problem and conducted a simulation to explore 3 different SCR‐informed optimization objectives that prioritized different conservation goals by maximizing the number of protected individuals, reserve connectivity, and density‐weighted connectivity. We also studied the effect on our 3 objectives of enforcing that the space‐use requirements of individuals be met by the reserve for individuals to be considered conserved (referred to as home‐range constraints). Maximizing local population density resulted in fragmented reserves that would likely not aid long‐term population persistence, and maximizing the connectivity objective yielded reserves that protected the fewest individuals. However, maximizing density‐weighted connectivity or preemptively imposing home‐range constraints on reserve design yielded reserves of largely spatially compact sets of parcels covering high‐density areas in the landscape with high functional connectivity between them. Our results quantify the extent to which reserve design is constrained by individual home‐range requirements and highlight that accounting for individual space use in the objective and constraints can help in the design of reserves that balance abundance and connectivity in a biologically relevant manner.
Site‐selection bias and apparent population declines in long‐term studies
Authors: Fournier Auriel M.V. , White Easton R. , Heard Stephen B. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractDetecting population declines is a critical task for conservation biology. Logistical difficulties and the spatiotemporal variability of populations make estimation of population declines difficult. For statistical reasons, estimates of population decline may be biased when study sites are chosen based on abundance of the focal species. In this situation, apparent population declines are likely to be detected even if there is no decline. This site‐selection bias is mentioned in the literature but is not well known. We used simulations and real population data to examine the effects of site‐selection biases on inferences about population trends. We used a left‐censoring method to detect population‐size patterns consistent with site‐selection bias. The site‐selection bias is an important consideration for conservation biologists, and we offer suggestions for minimizing or mitigating it in study design and analysis.Article impact statement: Estimates of population declines are biased if studies begin in large populations, and time‐series data show a signature of such an effect.
The many meanings of autism: conceptual and ethical reflections
Authors: Hens Kristien 
Published: June 2019

Autism is a polysemous concept. It is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder that is diagnosed based on an assessment of behaviour and dysfunction. Autism also refers to a specific way of information or sensorial processing. For those diagnosed with autism, it is a real and shared experience. In this paper, I sketch the moral work that biological conceptions of autism perform. They help to conceptualize the diagnosis and associated challenges as real and they remove some of the blame from the diagnosed person and/or their parents. But such approaches also risk neglecting the role of behaviour as a meaningful reaction to experiences. In thinking about the ethics of autism research, diagnosis of autism, and autism care, the recent findings of epigenetics and systems biology may help us overcome the dichotomy between biology and psyche, and point the way to a more nuanced and ethical view.What this paper adds

The meaning of ‘autism’ has different layers and as such autism is a polysemous concept.

The lived experience of autistic people matters in research.
Deep brain stimulation for cerebral palsy: where are we now?
Authors: Sanger Terence D 
Published: June 2019

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex disorder and children frequently have multiple impairments. Dystonia is a particularly frustrating impairment that interferes with rehabilitation and function and is difficult to treat. Of the available treatments, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as an option with the potential for large effect size in a subgroup of children. While brain stimulation has been used in CP for more than 40 years, modern devices and targeting methods are improving both the safety and efficacy of the procedure. Successful use of DBS depends on appropriate selection of patients, identification of effective neuroanatomical targets in each patient, careful neurosurgical procedure, and detailed follow‐up evaluation and programming. The use of functional neurosurgery for neuromodulation in CP remains a technology in its infancy, but improving experience and knowledge are likely to make this one of the safest and most effective interventions for children with moderate‐to‐severe motor disorders. This review summarizes the current procedures for patient and target selection, and surgical implantation of DBS electrodes for CP. The history of DBS and future directions when used in secondary dystonia are also examined.What this paper adds

Selection of candidates for deep brain stimulation (DBS) requires understanding of dystonia in cerebral palsy .

DBS could become a first‐line treatment option in some children.
Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter inhibitors: Medications that mimic fasting for cardiovascular prevention
Authors: Giaccari Andrea 
Published: June 2019

AbstractRecent evidence that some diabetes drugs can prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) has profoundly modified the treatment approach to type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and almost all glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) have been shown, beyond their effect on glucose control, to lead to a significant decrease in the cardiovascular burden of diabetes. Although these results are well known, the mechanisms of action by which they prevent cardiovascular events are still poorly understood. Both GLP‐1RAs and SGLT2 inhibitors promote weight loss, although through different mechanisms. SGLT2 inhibitors promote glycosuria, leading to significant caloric deficit and weight loss. Similarly, GLP‐1RAs, probably through an anorexic effect on certain brain areas, inhibit calorie intake, with ensuing weight loss. Although it features less prominently in current treatment pathways, pioglitazone has also demonstrated cardiovascular benefits. Pioglitazone profoundly modifies several mechanisms and risk factors responsible for CVD; however, these mechanisms certainly do not include weight loss. Obesity, and consequent insulin resistance, are well known risk factors for CVD, and it would appear logical to attribute the positive cardiovascular effects of these two classes of drugs to weight loss. The direct metabolic effects of these two classes, however, are profoundly different. The present review proposes a unifying hypothesis to explain the reduction in CVD through three different mechanisms of curbing free fatty acid excess, all leading to the common mechanism of cellular caloric restriction. If this hypothesis is correct, the excellent results obtained with SGLT2 inhibitors could be attributed to their close simulation of fasting.