bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tinea faciei in a central Portuguese hospital: A 9‐year survey
Authors: Borges Ana , Brasileiro Ana , Galhardas Célia , Apetato Margarida 
Published: December 2017

SummaryTinea faciei is a relatively uncommon dermatophytosis that affects the glabrous skin of the face. The aim of this study was to analyse the epidemiologic, clinical and mycological features of tinea faciei cases diagnosed at the Dermatology and Venereology Department of Hospital Santo António dos Capuchos (Lisbon, Portugal). Consecutive cases diagnosed between 2008 and 2016 were studied retrospectively. A total of 72 tinea faciei cases have been diagnosed, involving 37 male and 35 female, aged between 8 months and 86 years. The majority were observed in patients younger than 12 years of age (59.72%). Anthropophilic isolates (mainly Microsporum audouinii, Trichophyton soudanense and Trichophyton rubrum) accounted for 75.7% of the identified dermatophytes. One quarter of the patients were also affected by dermatophytosis in other areas, such as the scalp. Only 10 cases were previously treated with topical steroids due to misdiagnosis. Most patients were treated with topical and systemic antifungal therapy with total resolution of skin lesions, without relapse or side effects. In contrast to other European studies, anthropophilic dermatophytes were the main causative agents of tinea faciei. As previously described to tinea capitis, this result is probably due to changes in the epidemiology of dermatophytes worldwide.
Cryptococcosis and cryptococcal meningitis: New predictors and clinical outcomes at a United States academic medical centre
Authors: Kashef Hamadani Bahar H. , Franco‐Paredes Carlos , McCollister Bruce , Shapiro Leland , Beckham J. David , Henao‐Martínez Andrés F. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryAs the diagnosis of cryptococcosis is challenging in low‐prevalence settings, uncovering predictive factors can improve early diagnosis and timely treatment. The aim of the study was to relate clinical outcomes to predictive variables for the presence of cryptococcosis. A retrospective case‐control study matched by collection date, age and gender at a 1:2 ratio (55 cases and 112 controls) was performed in case patients diagnosed with Cryptococcus infection at the University of Colorado Hospital between 2000 and 2017 (n = 167). A bivariate and a forward, stepwise multivariable logistic regression model were performed to identify predictors of cryptococcosis infection. In an adjusted multivariable model, cryptococcal infection was significantly associated with the presence of respiratory symptoms, hyponatremia, lung disease or corticosteroids. Additionally, cryptococcal meningitis was associated with headaches, corticosteroids or increased CSF protein. Conversely, a reduced risk of cryptococcosis was associated with hypertension or peripheral monocytosis. Cryptococcal meningitis leads to subsequent hearing impairment (16% vs 4% (control), P = .013), muscle weakness (40% vs 20%, P = .021), cognitive deficits (33% vs 6%, P = .0001) or any adverse outcome (84% vs 29%, P = .0001). We uncovered novel clinical predictors for the presence of cryptococcal infection or cryptococcal meningitis. This study in patients at a low‐prevalence US medical centre underscores the importance of early diagnosis in this population.
Development of a modified swallowing screening tool to manage post‐extubation dysphagia
Authors: Christensen Martin , Trapl Michaela 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACTPost‐extubation dysphagia is a condition that is becoming a growing concern. The condition occurs in 3–62% of extubated patients and can be related to mixed aetiologies, such as neuromuscular impairment, critical illness and laryngeal damage. The risk factors for developing dysphagia in critically ill patients are under‐diagnosed and perhaps underestimated. Recent studies recommend the implementation of a standardized swallowing screen to prevent aspiration and decrease pneumonia rate and mortality. The aim of this quality improvement initiative was the development of a bedside swallowing screening tool to assess effective swallowing post‐endotracheal extubation. Post‐extubation dysphagia can result in a delay in re‐feeding, with the potential for malnutrition as well as overt and covert aspiration if swallowing is not effectively screened. It is apparent that ICU nurses commence the initial screen for swallowing in the absence of an evidence base of care. A review of current local and international practice guidelines excludes the process of an effective swallowing screen of the extubated patient. Previously, a referral to speech and language therapists would be required to assess swallowing only after an initial review by the ICU medical team. This often leads to delays if the referral is made outside normal working practice, such as weekends or evenings. The initial development of a swallowing screening tool is the first step to promoting a nurse‐led/‐initiated bedside swallow screening tool that will enhance patient care and patient safety. There is growing body of evidence regarding the incidence of post‐extubation dysphagia. Currently, there are very few recognized bedside swallowing screening tools to identify patients at risk. The most serious complication associated with post‐extubation dysphagia is aspiration pneumonia, which is the leading cause of nosocomial infection in the critically ill patient.
Uncertainty and the Great Recession
Authors: Born Benjamin , Breuer Sebastian , Elstner Steffen 
Published: December 2017

AbstractHas heightened uncertainty been a major contributor to the Great Recession and the slow recovery in the United States? To answer this question, we identify exogenous changes in six uncertainty proxies and quantify their contributions to GDP growth and the unemployment rate. The answer is no. In total we find that increased macroeconomic and financial uncertainty can explain up to 10% of the drop in GDP at the height of the recession and up to 0.6 percentage points of the increased unemployment rates in 2009 through 2011. Our calculations further suggest that only a minor part of the rise in popular uncertainty measures during the Great Recession was driven by exogenous uncertainty shocks.
Role of ultrasound guided epidural anesthesia for lower limb surgery in children with previously repaired meningomyelocele
Authors: Ponde Vrushali C. , Bedekar Vinit V. , Chavan Dilip , Gursale Anuya , Shah Dipal 
Published: December 2017

SummaryBackgroundChildren that have had a meningomyelocele repair often present for hip and bilateral lower limb surgeries. Due to vertebral, epidural, and nerve root abnormalities, placement of epidural catheter is difficult.AimsWe aim to describe the potential role of ultrasound in delineating the most appropriate intervertebral space for central neuroaxial blocks in these patients.MethodsTwelve children with previous meningomyelocele repair, in the age group of 6‐12 years posted for hip or bilateral lower limb surgeries were included. After induction of anesthesia, an ultrasound scan was done with the patient in the left lateral position. The central neuroaxial block was performed in the most appropriate intervertebral space seen on transverse scan of spine. These patients were studied with regard to visibility of the osseous framework of the spine, the anterior and posterior dural complexes, ease of insertion of catheter, evidence of dural puncture, and possibility of identification of the extent of peri‐incisional fibrosis.ResultsOne case required 2 attempts. There was no evidence of dural puncture. We could confirm the soft tissue shadow, the osseous framework, and the anterior and posterior dural complexes in all 12 patients. Ultrasonography guided in selecting the most appropriate space for epidural catheter placement.ConclusionUltrasound guidance aids in identification of normal intervertebral space and explicitly shows the abnormal space. It can be used as an aid to differentiate between normal and abnormal space in post‐meningomyelocele repair.
Relationship between anxious temperament and harm avoidance in medical students and staff
Authors: Shirahama Masanao , Terao Takeshi , Ishii Nobuyoshi , Hatano Koji , Hirakawa Hirofumi , Kohno Kentaro 
Published: December 2017

AimIn order to resolve the equivocal relationship between anxious temperament rated by the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego‐Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS‐A) and harm avoidance rated by the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), the present study aimed to investigate whether the anxious temperament scale and the harm avoidance scale are significantly associated with adjustment of relevant factors. Our hypothesis was that anxious temperament might be associated with harm avoidance.MethodsFrom the database of our previous studies, the data of 111 healthy subjects who had both TCI and TEMPS‐A scores were extracted for the present study. Two multiple regression analyses were performed: one to predict variance in anxious temperament scores without and with harm avoidance scores, and relevant factors; and another to predict variance in harm avoidance scores without and with anxious temperament scores, and relevant factors.ResultsAnxious temperament was significantly and positively associated with depressive temperament, irritable temperament, and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression whereas harm avoidance was significantly and negatively associated with hyperthymic temperament, novelty seeking, persistence, and self‐directedness, although both were significantly and positively associated with each other.ConclusionThese findings support our hypothesis and suggest that anxious temperament may have ‘depressive proneness’ whereas harm avoidance may have ‘passive proneness.’
Application of a modified diabetes prevention program with adolescents
Authors: Geria Kimberly , Beitz Janice M. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to increase type 2 diabetes (T2DM) awareness and decrease T2DM risk factors by examining effectiveness of a modified version of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) with adolescents.Design and SampleA quasi‐experimental one‐group, pretest/posttest design was used to determine impact of the modified DPP on adolescents. Study intervention was incorporated into the health education curriculum at a public charter school and implemented over 11 weeks. Study sample included primarily African‐American and Hispanic adolescents (N = 101) aged 13–18 attending the public charter school in a New Jersey urban community.MeasuresInstrumentation included valid, reliable measures of self‐efficacy for healthy eating, physical activity, food knowledge, and healthy food choices. Participants’ pretest/posttest waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) were collected.ResultsOutcomes revealed significant (p < .001) increase in participants’ food knowledge, self‐efficacy for choosing healthy foods and performing physical activity, healthy food choices, and amount of weekly aerobic exercise. Reductions in BMI and waist circumference were statistically significant (p < .05).ConclusionsA modified DPP adapted for adolescents’ learning needs lowered risk for T2DM. Implications for clinical practice, education, and research are posed.
Implementing ecological intensification in fish farming: definition and principles from contrasting experiences
Authors: Aubin Joël , Callier Myriam , Rey‐Valette Hélène , Mathé Syndhia , Wilfart Aurélie , Legendre Marc , Slembrouck Jacques , Caruso Domenico , Chia Eduardo , Masson Gérard , Blancheton Jean Paul , Ediwarman  , Haryadi Joni , Prihadi Tri Heru , de Matos Casaca Jorge , Tamassia Sergio T.J. , Tocqueville Aurélien , Fontaine Pascal 
Published: December 2017

AbstractEcological intensification is a new concept in agriculture that addresses the double challenge of maintaining a level of production sufficient to support needs of human populations and respecting the environment in order to conserve the natural world and human quality of life. This article adapts this concept to fish farming using agroecological principles and the ecosystem services framework. The method was developed from the study of published literature and applications at four study sites chosen for their differences in production intensity: polyculture ponds in France, integrated pig and pond polyculture in Brazil, the culture of striped catfish in Indonesia and a recirculating salmon aquaculture system in France. The study of stakeholders’ perceptions of ecosystem services combined with environmental assessment through Life Cycle Assessment and Emergy accounting allowed development of an assessment tool that was used as a basis for co‐building evolution scenarios. From this experience, ecological intensification of aquaculture was defined as the use of ecological processes and functions to increase productivity, strengthen ecosystem services and decrease disservices. It is based on aquaecosystem and biodiversity management and the use of local and traditional knowledge. Expected consequences for farming systems consist of greater autonomy, efficiency and better integration into their surrounding territories. Ecological intensification requires territorial governance and helps improve it from a sustainable development perspective.
Rural–urban human capital disparity and skilled–unskilled wage inequality in China
Authors: Pi Jiancai , Zhang Pengqing 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThis paper builds three‐sector general equilibrium models to investigate how a shrink of rural–urban human capital disparity generates an impact on skilled–unskilled wage inequality in China. In the basic model where the urban skilled sector and the urban unskilled sector have no upstream and downstream linkage, we find that the wage inequality will be narrowed down if the urban skilled sector is more capital intensive than the urban unskilled sector. To capture the characteristic of China's state capitalism, we build an extended model where the urban skilled sector acts as an upstream industry for the urban unskilled sector, and find that the wage inequality will be reduced if the substitution elasticity of unskilled labor and intermediate product in the urban unskilled sector is large enough. When we consider the factual characteristics of the Chinese economy, our models predict that a shrink of rural–urban human capital disparity will be helpful to reduce the skilled–unskilled wage inequality in China.
Systemic Risks Spillovers and Interdependence among Stock Markets: International Evidence with Covar‐Copulas
Authors: Boako Gideon , Alagidede Paul 
Published: December 2017

AbstractEmpirical studies have provided ample evidence on the potential benefits of international diversification with portfolios that consist of both domestic and foreign assets. This coupled with sudden and periodic crashes in global and developed equity markets have stimulated the interest of investors to diversify across markets that have the potential to provide decorrelation with global markets during turbulent periods. At the same time, international diversification may intensify cross‐border listing of stocks with its antecedent implication of shocks transmission. The above have engendered renewed interest among researchers to explore the dependence levels and spillover effects of shocks among emerging and developed equity markets. This paper examines tail dependence structure and (extreme) systemic risks spillover effects among international equity markets using advanced econometric techniques that underpin the modelling of asset returns. We find evidence of low positive significant dependencies between all African markets and their developed counterparts, except for Egypt. Although no evidence of spillover effects to the markets in Africa was found, both unidirectional and bi‐directional causality between some African and developed equity markets is found, albeit with differences. We are unable to ascribe the dynamics in the causality structure to level of market integration. It is inferred that the degree of individual local markets interdependence with developed counterparts may reflect the relative size, liquidity and degree of foreign investors' participation.
Towards a theorization of the relationship between poverty and family
Authors: Daly Mary 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThis article aims to contribute to theorizing and research about the processes and relationships connecting families and poverty. The aim is to undertake a thought exercise to identify possible relationships and interactions between family and poverty. In existing poverty research practice, a simplified view of both individuals and families is presupposed by, first, the reduction of family to household; and, second, treating the household as nothing more than a unit size and composition. Drawing from existing research on both poverty and families in everyday life, the article offers two core insights. First, it suggests that poverty scholarship needs to take specific account of the processes of resource and income transformation that are associated with family living. Second, these processes are not necessarily functional or confined to the material, but encompass normative and moral agency associated with family membership. Both act to mediate poverty‐related and other outcomes. The article also suggests some conceptual and methodological refinements to take these issues forward in future research.
Mitochondrial DNA multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction inhibition assay for quality control of pathogen inactivation by ultraviolet C light in platelet concentrates
Authors: Kim Sinyoung , Handke Wiebke , Gravemann Ute , Döscher Andrea , Brixner Veronika , Müller Thomas H. , Seltsam Axel 
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUNDSeveral ultraviolet (UV) light‐based pathogen inactivation (PI) technologies for platelet (PLT) products have been developed or are under development. Upon implementation of PI technologies, quality control measures are required to ensure consistent efficiency of the treatment process. Previous reports showed that amotosalen/UVA and riboflavin/UV‐based PI technologies induce modifications of the PLT‐derived mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that can be detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) inhibition assays. In this study, we sought to establish a PCR inhibition assay to document the impact of ultraviolet C (UVC) treatment with the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets system on the mitochondrial genome in PLT concentrates (PCs).STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSA multiplex real‐time PCR inhibition assay with simultaneous short‐amplicon (143 bp) and long‐amplicon (794 bp) amplification was developed to detect mtDNA modifications in PLTs after UVC treatment. Assay performance was tested in UVC‐treated and untreated, plasma‐reduced pooled PCs, and apheresis PCs and challenged using PCs manufactured for a clinical trial under routine‐like conditions.RESULTSUVC illumination of PLTs resulted in dose‐dependent inhibition of mtDNA amplification for the larger amplicon. Amplification of the shorter amplicon was not affected by UVC treatment. Evaluation of 283 blinded apheresis and pooled PLT samples from routine‐like PC production resulted in prediction of UVC treatment status with 100% accuracy.CONCLUSIONThe proposed dual‐amplicon size real‐time mtDNA PCR assay effectively detects nucleic acid damage induced by UVC illumination of PLTs and could be useful as an informative indicator of PI quality of the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets system.
Financial vulnerability and export dynamics
Authors: Jaud Melise , Kiendrebeogo Youssouf , Véganzonès‐Varoudakis Marie‐Ange 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThis paper examines the implication of financial shocks on firms’ export dynamics in developing economies. To address this question, we use the Exporter Dynamics Dataset, which contains new data on the microstructure of exports for 34 developing countries between 1997 and 2011, and investigate how exporter behaviour is affected by financial crises. We find that financial crises in both the origin and destination countries have a large negative effect on firm, product and destination dynamics, particularly in industries dependent on external finance. Financial crises make the costs of exporting more difficult to meet and in turn reduce firms’ ability to start exporting, introduce new products and sell to new destinations. We also find that the impact of financial crises is less pronounced in exporting countries with relatively more open capital accounts, suggesting that portfolio inflows may be a good substitute for underdeveloped domestic financial markets.
Doramectin in the treatment of generalized demodicosis
Authors: Cordero Alberto M. , Quek Simon , Mueller Ralf S. 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundGeneralized demodicosis is a common disease in dogs and doramectin has been reported as a successful treatment. Different treatment protocols using doramectin have not been previously evaluated.ObjectiveTo evaluate whether oral administration of doramectin twice a week is more effective than administration by subcutaneous injection once a week.AnimalsTwenty nine privately owned dogs affected with generalized demodicosis.MethodsDogs randomly received one of two treatments. Sixteen dogs were treated with 600 μg/kg doramectin by subcutaneous injection once a week and 13 dogs received 600 μg/kg doramectin by oral administration twice a week.ResultsThe mean age of affected dogs was 2.8 and 2.6 years (P= 0.587) and the mean mite number detected at the initial evaluation was 201 and 287 (P= 0.04), respectively, for each group. The mean time to achieve negative skin scrapings was 13 and 12 weeks, respectively (P= 0.955). Adult‐onset demodicosis affected five of 16 and two of 13 dogs, respectively (P= 0.662). The success rate for treatment was 13 of 16 (81%) of dogs receiving subcutaneous injections once a week and 12 of 13 (92%) dogs receiving oral dosaging twice a week. (P= 0.691). Four dogs did not achieve disease remission. In the 12 month follow‐up period, one dog that had received the once a week protocol relapsed after eight weeks of treatment withdrawal. Adverse effects were not observed in any dog.ConclusionBased on the results of this study, oral administration of doramectin twice a week does not achieve a more rapid resolution of canine generalized demodicosis than administration by subcutaneous injection once a week. The treatment success rate was the same for both protocols.