bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Atrium‐specific ion channels in the zebrafish—A role of IKACh in atrial repolarization
Authors: Skarsfeldt M. A. , Bomholtz S. H. , Lundegaard P. R. , Lopez‐Izquierdo A. , Tristani‐Firouzi M. , Bentzen B. H. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractAimThe zebrafish has emerged as a novel model for investigating cardiac physiology and pathology. The aim of this study was to investigate the atrium‐specific ion channels responsible for shaping the atrial cardiac action potential in zebrafish.MethodsUsing quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we assessed the expression level of atrium‐specific potassium channels. The functional role of these channels was studied by patch clamp experiments on isolated atrial and ventricular cardiomyocytes and by optical mapping of explanted adult zebrafish hearts. Finally, surface ECGs were recorded to establish possible in vivo roles of atrial ion channels.ResultsIn isolated adult zebrafish hearts, we identified the expression of kcnk3, kcnk9, kcnn1, kcnn2, kcnn3, kcnj3 and kcnj5, the genes that encode the atrium‐specific K2P, KCa2.x and Kir3.1/4 (KACh) ion channels. The electrophysiological data indicate that the acetylcholine‐activated inward‐rectifying current, IKACh, plays a major role in the zebrafish atrium, whereas K2P3.1/9.1 and KCa2.x channels do not appear to be involved in regulating the action potential in the zebrafish heart.ConclusionWe demonstrate that the acetylcholine‐activated inward‐rectifying current (IKACh) current plays a major role in the zebrafish atrium and that the zebrafish could potentially be a cost‐effective and reliable model for pharmacological testing of atrium‐specific IKACh modulating compounds.
Discontinuities and disruptions in drug dosage guidelines for the paediatric population
Authors: Chitty Kate M. , Chan Bosco , Pulanco Camille L. , Luu Sonya , Egunsola Oluwaseun , Buckley Nicholas A. 
Published: February 2018

AimsThis study investigates paediatric drug dosage guidelines with the aim of investigating their agreement with body surface area (BSA) scaling principles.MethodsA total of 454 drug dosage guidelines listed in the AMH‐CDC 2015 were examined. Data extracted included the administration, frequency and dose per age bracket from 0 to 18 years. Drug treatments were categorized as follows: (1) The same dose recommendation in milligrams per kilogram (mg kg−1) for all age/weights; (2) Change in the mg kg−1 dosing according to age/weight; (3) Change in dose in mg according to age/weight; (4) Change from mg kg−1 dosing to a dose in mg according to age/weight; (5) The same recommendation for all age/weight groups in mg; or (6) BSA dosing. Example drugs were selected to illustrate dose progression across ages.ResultsMost drug treatments (63%) have the same mg kg−1 dose for all age/weight groups, 14% are dosed in mg kg−1 across all ages with dose changes according to age/weight, 13% were dosed in mg across all ages with dose changes, 10% switched from mg kg−1 to a set dose in mg, 4.2% have the same dose in mg for all age and weight groups and 2.2% are dosed according to BSA.ConclusionsPaediatric dosage guidelines are based on weight‐based formulas, available dosing formulations and prior patterns of use. Substantial variation from doses predicted by BSA scaling are common, as are large shifts in recommended doses at age thresholds. Further research is required to determine if better outcomes could be achieved by adopting biologically based scaling of paediatric doses.
Infant feeding‐related maternity care practices and maternal report of breastfeeding outcomes
Authors: Nelson Jennifer M. , Perrine Cria G. , Freedman David S. , Williams Letitia , Morrow Brian , Smith Ruben A. , Dee Deborah L. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundEvidence‐based maternity practices and policies can improve breastfeeding duration and exclusivity. Maternity facilities report practices through the Maternity Practices in Infant Nutrition and Care (mPINC) survey, but individual outcomes, such as breastfeeding duration and exclusivity, are not collected.MethodsmPINC data on maternity care practices for 2009 were linked to data from the 2009 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), which collects information on mothers’ behaviors and experiences around pregnancy. We calculated total mPINC scores (range 0‐100). PRAMS data on any and exclusive breastfeeding at 8 weeks were examined by total mPINC score quartile.ResultsOf 15 715 women in our sample, 53.7% were breastfeeding any at 8 weeks, and 29.3% were breastfeeding exclusively. They gave birth at 1016 facilities that had a mean total mPINC score of 65/100 (range 19‐99). Care dimension subscores ranged from 41 for facility discharge care to 81 for breastfeeding assistance. In multivariable analysis adjusting for covariates, a positive relationship was found between total mPINC score quartile and both any breastfeeding (quartile 2: odds ratio [OR] 1.40 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.08‐1.83], quartile 3: OR 1.50 [95% CI 1.15‐1.96], quartile 4: OR 2.12 [95% CI 1.61‐2.78] vs quartile 1) and exclusive breastfeeding (quartile 3: OR 1.41 [95% CI 1.04‐1.90], quartile 4: OR 1.89 [95% CI 1.41‐2.55] vs quartile 1) at 8 weeks.ConclusionsThese data demonstrate that evidence‐based maternity care practices and policies are associated with better breastfeeding outcomes. Maternity facilities may evaluate their practices and policies to ensure they are helping mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Synthesis and evaluation of pyridinium‐hydrazone derivatives as potential antitumoral agents
Authors: Parlar Sülünay , Erzurumlu Yalçın , Ilhan Recep , Ballar Kırmızıbayrak Petek , Alptüzün Vildan , Erciyas Ercin 
Published: February 2018

The hydrazones of 4‐hydrazinylpyridinium bearing alkylphenyl groups on pyridinium nitrogen were synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against MCF‐7, PC3, U2OS, and HEK293 cell lines by Wst1 cell proliferation assay. Cytotoxic activity results indicated that d derivatives having butylene chain; 4 and 5 series having naphthalene and anthracene ring systems showed high cytotoxic activity (IC50 = 3.27–8.54 μm) on cancer cells. 3d (4‐(2‐(4‐hydroxybenzylidene)hydrazinyl)‐1‐(4‐phenylbutyl)pyridinium bromide) was the most cytotoxic compound with IC50 value of 3.27 μm against MCF‐7. The most active derivatives (1d, 2d, 3d, 4, and 5 series) were selected to investigate for the effects on autophagy by analyzing the expression of autophagy marker proteins. The conversion of LC3‐I to its lipidated form LC3‐II is essential for autophagy and related to autophagosomes. According to our results, all tested compounds except for 3d induced lipidated form LC3‐II accumulation. Then, the effects of the compounds on p62 protein level were also analyzed by the immunoblotting as the autophagy inhibition results in accumulation of p62. Further molecular mechanistic studies including morphological analysis and live–death assays indicated that all tested compounds (1d, 2d, 3d, 4, and 5 series) are potent antitumoral molecules and all except for 3d have potential to inhibit autophagic flux.
Sex‐dependent reductions in high molecular weight adiponectin during acute hyperinsulinemia are prevented with endurance training in older females
Authors: Consitt Leslie A. , Saxena Gunjan , Schaefer Megan 
Published: February 2018

SummaryObjectiveThe high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin isoform is considered the active form of adiponectin and is linked to insulin sensitivity and the reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The purpose of the first study was to determine the effects of age and sex on the plasma HMW adiponectin response to acute hyperinsulinemia, and secondly determine whether either endurance or resistance exercise training could affect this response.Design and ParticipantsTwenty‐six healthy males (19‐84 years) and twenty‐six healthy females (18‐76 years) were recruited and matched for BMI to examine the effects of sex and age on the plasma adiponectin response to a 2‐hour hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp. To examine the effects of exercise training, a subgroup of young (<35 years) and aged (>55 years) individuals were randomized into a 12‐week endurance or resistance training programme and had their adiponectin response to hyperinsulinemia measured before and after training. High molecular weight (HMW) and total adiponectin were measured by ELISA.ResultsIn response to hyperinsulinemia, plasma HMW adiponectin decreased in females (−9%, P < .005), but not males. After 12 weeks of endurance training, the response of plasma HMW adiponectin to hyperinsulinemia increased in older females (36%, P < .05) only. Resistance training had no effect on the plasma adiponectin response to hyperinsulinemia. Despite no age or sex differences at baseline, skeletal muscle AdipoR1 increased in response to endurance training (~120%, P < .001) and resistance training (~38%, P < .05), regardless of age or sex.ConclusionThe inhibitory action of hyperinsulinemia on plasma HMW adiponectin occurs in females but not males, irrespective of age. Twelve weeks of endurance training protects older females against the hyperinsulinemic inhibition of plasma HMW adiponectin, which could promote healthy ageing.
The rising tide of Acanthamoeba keratitis in Auckland, New Zealand: a 7‐year review of presentation, diagnosis and outcomes (2009–2016)
Authors: McKelvie James , Alshiakhi Moaz , Ziaei Mohammed , Patel Dipika V , McGhee Charles NJ 
Published: February 2018

AbstractImportanceAcanthamoeba is an increasingly prevalent cause of vision‐threatening microbial keratitis.BackgroundTo assess the incidence, clinical presentation, diagnosis and outcomes of patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) in Auckland, New Zealand over a 7‐year period.DesignRetrospective observational consecutive case series.ParticipantsFifty‐eight eyes of 52 patients diagnosed with AK.MethodsAll cases of AK were identified using a cross‐referenced search of clinical, laboratory and pharmacy records from March 2009 to May 2016.Main Outcome MeasuresDemographic and clinical data were collected including age, gender, risk factors, clinical manifestations, initial diagnosis, diagnostic investigations, treatment, presenting and final visual acuity and surgical interventions.ResultsContact lens (CL) use was noted in 96% of unilateral and 100% of bilateral cases. The mean duration of symptoms at presentation was 21 days and the mean duration from presentation to definitive diagnosis was 14 days. Initial diagnosis was recorded as CL‐related keratitis in 70.6%, viral keratitis in 15.5% and AK in 12.0%. The diagnosis was confirmed with In vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) in 67.2%, corneal scrape in 22.4%, corneal biopsy in 1.7% and clinically in 8.6%. IVCM sensitivity was 83.0%. Surgical intervention was required in four patients, all with delayed diagnosis (range 63–125 days). The incidence of AK has more than doubled when compared with the preceding 7‐year period.Conclusions and RelevanceAK is a rare vision‐threatening protozoal infection with rapidly‐increasing incidence in New Zealand, predominantly affecting CL users. Diagnosis is often challenging and when delayed is associated with worse outcomes. IVCM offers rapid diagnosis with high sensitivity.
Factors associated with nicotine replacement therapy use among hospitalised smokers
Authors: Chui Chang Yue , Thomas Dennis , Taylor Simone , Bonevski Billie , Abramson Michael J. , Paul Eldho , Poole Susan G. , Weeks Gregory R. , Dooley Michael J. , George Johnson 
Published: February 2018

AbstractIntroduction and AimsNicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is recommended as a smoking cessation aid for hospitalised smokers. We examined factors associated with NRT use during hospitalisation and after discharge, and NRT uptake when systematically offered free of cost.Design and MethodsA nested analysis was conducted using data from a clinical trial that evaluated the effectiveness of a pharmacist‐led smoking cessation intervention in 600 hospitalised smokers.ResultsNRT was used at least once by 285 (48%) participants during hospitalisation and by 287 (48%) participants during the 12 months post‐discharge. Heavy smokers and those who expressed interest in using NRT for their next quit attempt at baseline interview were more likely to use NRT during hospitalisation [odds ratio (OR) 1.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.38, 2.74; OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.48, 2.95] and after discharge (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.20, 2.41; OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.39, 2.79). Those using six or more medications were more likely to use NRT during hospitalisation (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.05, 2.61). Post‐discharge NRT users were more likely to have been initially admitted for a respiratory or cardiac problem (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.05, 2.18). When NRT was offered free of cost to a subset of patients (n = 300), 157 (52%) used NRT during hospitalisation. Nicotine dependence and interest in using NRT predicted its use (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.38, 3.70; OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.58, 4.20).Discussion and ConclusionsTargeting heavy smokers, those with cardio‐respiratory conditions and those interested in using NRT regardless of regimen complexity could improve NRT uptake.
Standardized genetic diversity‐life history correlates for improved genetic resource management of Neotropical trees
Authors: Lowe Andrew J. , Breed Martin F. , Caron Henri , Colpaert Nathalie , Dick Christopher , Finegan Bryan , Gardner Mike , Gheysen Godelieve , Gribel Rogério , Harris J. Berton C. , Kremer Antoine , Lemes Maristerra R. , Margis Rogerio , Navarro Carlos M. , Salgueiro Fabiano , Villalobos‐Barrantes Heidy M. , Cavers Stephen 
Published: February 2018

AbstractAimLife history traits and range size are key correlates of genetic diversity in trees. We used a standardized sampling protocol to explore how life history traits and range size relate to the magnitude, variance and structuring (both between‐ and within‐population) of genetic diversity in Neotropical tree species.LocationThe NeotropicsMethodsWe present a meta‐analysis of new population genetic data generated for 23 Neotropical tree species (=2,966 trees, 86 populations) across a shared and broad geographic area. We compared established population genetic metrics across these species (e.g., genetic diversity, population structure, fine‐scale genetic structure), plus we estimated the rarely used variance in genetic diversity among populations. We used a multivariate, maximum likelihood, multimodel inference approach to explore the relative influence of life history traits and range size on patterns of neutral genetic diversity.ResultsWe found that pioneer and narrow range species had lower levels but greater variance in genetic diversity—signs of founder effects and stronger genetic drift. Animal‐dispersed species had lower population differentiation, indicating extensive gene flow. Abiotically dispersed and pioneer species had stronger fine‐scale genetic structure, suggesting restricted seed dispersal and family cohort establishment.Main conclusionsOur multivariable and multispecies approach allows ecologically relevant conclusions, since knowing whether one parameter has an effect, or one species shows a response in isolation, is dependent on the combination of traits expressed by a species. Our study demonstrates the influence of ecological processes on the distribution of genetic variation in tropical trees, and will help guide genetic resource management, and contribute to predicting the impacts of land use change.
Identifying the factors that determine the severity and type of alien bird impacts
Authors: Evans Thomas , Kumschick Sabrina , Şekercioğlu Çağan H. , Blackburn Tim M. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractAimTo identify traits related to the severity and type of environmental impacts generated by alien bird species, in order to improve our ability to predict which species may have the most damaging impacts.LocationGlobal.MethodsInformation on traits hypothesized to influence the severity and type of alien bird impacts was collated for 113 bird species. These data were analysed using mixed effects models accounting for phylogenetic non‐independence of species.ResultsThe severity and type of impacts generated by alien bird species are not randomly distributed with respect to their traits. Alien range size and habitat breadth were strongly associated with impact severity. Predation impacts were strongly associated with dietary preference, but also with alien range size, relative brain size and residence time. Impacts mediated by interactions with other alien species were related to alien range size and diet breadth.Main conclusionsWidely distributed generalist alien birds have the most severe environmental impacts. This may be because these species have greater opportunity to cause environmental impacts through their sheer number and ubiquity, but this could also be because they are more likely to be identified and studied. Our study found little evidence for an effect of per capita impact on impact severity.
Transmaxillary anchored silicon embedded gauze plug in the post‐operative treatment of a large oromaxillary fistula caused by a supernumerary cheek tooth
Authors: Hevesi A. T. , Uto D. , Takacs N. , Lorincz V. , Simhofer H. 
Published: February 2018

SummaryA 9‐year‐old Hungarian sport horse gelding was presented to the clinic in poor condition displaying malodorous bilateral purulent nasal discharge. Oral examination revealed the presence of supernumerary 111 and 211. Bilateral diastema formation between the third maxillary molars and the supernumerary teeth with deep periodontal pockets and massive food impactions were diagnosed endoscopically. Radiography revealed inhomogenous sinus opacities in the left and right paranasal sinuses. Following bilateral oral extractions of the supernumerary cheek teeth and third maxillary molars, bilateral oromaxillary fistula formations were diagnosed (about 17 mm diameter on the right side). Bilateral frontal and right‐sided maxillary trephinations and resection of the right bulla of the maxillary septum were performed. Massive food impactions of the left and right paranasal sinuses were removed under endoscopic control. Repeated trans‐endoscopic sinus lavage was performed post‐operatively. After 2.5 months, the large right‐sided oromaxillary communication was temporarily closed with a transmaxillary anchored, gauze‐cored silicon plug on an outpatient basis. Follow‐up examination after 187 days revealed complete closure of the oromaxillary fistula and absence of sinusitis. In a 1.5‐year follow‐up control, no pathological conditions were found.
Do accountabilities change when public organisations transform to service systems: A new conceptual approach
Authors: Virtanen Petri , Stenvall Jari , Kinder Tony , Hatam Omaima 
Published: February 2018

AbstractIn this conceptual paper, we discuss from the service systems perspective how accountabilities differ from a hierarchic and organisational perspective within the domain of New Public Management, looking to shed new light upon accountability as a research topic. The concept of service systems and their accountabilities are scrutinised and the role of integrated social and health care services is discussed in particular. The main argument in the text is the changing nature of accountabilities as the public organisations are being transformed into service systems. To date, the understanding of accountability has remained structural by nature – such is the case also for productivity measurement – but the shift from organisations towards services systems means that accountability ought to be considered as processual by nature. By processual it is meant that accountability should be considered as flows within systems – that is: flows between agents the content of which we argue includes not only knowledge on the outputs of public services, but also values, empathy and thus multi‐layered understanding of accountability. The paper concludes with practical insights for managerial purposes on the basis for this accountability shift.
Plankton metacommunities in floodplain wetlands under contrasting hydrological conditions
Authors: Chaparro Griselda , Horváth Zsófia , O'Farrell Inés , Ptacnik Robert , Hein Thomas 
Published: February 2018

AbstractSpecies diversity is affected by processes operating at multiple spatial scales, although the most relevant scales that contribute to compositional variation and the temporal shifts of the involved mechanisms remain poorly explored. We studied spatial patterns of phytoplankton, rotifers and microcrustacean diversity across scales in a river floodplain system of the Danube in Austria under contrasting hydrological conditions (post‐flood versus low water level).The species turnover between water sections (β2) and between wetlands (β3) was the major components of regional diversity for all studied groups, with species turnover between habitats (β1) as a minor contributor. β1 diversity and β2 diversity were lower than expected by chance in most cases, suggesting that communities are more homogeneous than expected at these scales. β3 diversity was higher than expected by chance in many cases, indicating more distinct communities at the wetland level. Patterns were highly similar under different hydrological conditions, indicating no major immediate effect of flood events.Local environmental and spatial factors were similarly important in structuring phytoplankton, rotifer and microcrustacean communities in both hydrological conditions. Relevant environmental factors were spatially structured in post‐flood conditions especially between sections, suggesting flood‐driven homogenisation within the wetlands. Under low water level, spatial structuring of environment decreased and pure environmental factors gained relevance for phytoplankton and rotifers.Our results suggest that although β2 diversity between water sections is a major component of regional diversity, long‐term spatial processes responding to connectivity across the wetland structure phytoplankton, rotifer and microcrustacean communities. Aquatic sections within the limited spatial extent of the remaining floodplain areas appear more homogeneous than expected probably due to flood recurrence over the years.These results highlight that adequate planning of restoration and conservation strategies of floodplain wetlands should consider environmental heterogeneity together with long‐term spatial processes.