bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Strengthening and Westward Shift of the Tropical Pacific Walker Circulation during the Mid-Holocene: PMIP Simulation Results
Authors: Tian Zhiping , Li Tim , Jiang Dabang 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBased on the zonal mass streamfunction, the mid-Holocene annual and seasonal changes in the tropical Pacific Walker circulation (PWC) are examined using numerical simulations from the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project Phases 2 and 3. Compared to the preindustrial period, the annual mean of the PWC intensity strengthened (with an average increase of 0.26 × 1014 kg2 m−2 s−1 or 5%), and both the western edge and center of the PWC cell shifted westward (by an average of 4° and 3°, respectively) in the majority of the 29 models used for analysis during the mid-Holocene. Those changes were closely related to an overall increase in the equatorial Indo-Pacific east–west sea level pressure difference and low-level trade winds over the equatorial Pacific. Annual mean PWC changes come mainly from boreal warm seasons. In response to the mid-Holocene orbital forcing, Asian and North African monsoon rainfall was strengthened due to large-scale surface warming in the Northern Hemisphere in boreal warm seasons, which led to an intensified large-scale thermally direct east–west circulation, resulting in the enhancement and westward shift of the tropical PWC. The opposite occurred during the mid-Holocene boreal cold seasons. Taken together, the change in the monsoon rainfall over the key tropical regions of Asia and North Africa and associated large-scale east–west circulation, rather than the equatorial Pacific SST change pattern, played a key role in affecting the mid-Holocene PWC strength.
Can Propensity Score Analysis Approximate Randomized Experiments Using Pretest and Demographic Information in Pre-K Intervention Research?
Authors: Dong Nianbo , Lipsey Mark W. 
Published: January 2018

Background: It is unclear whether propensity score analysis (PSA) based on pretest and demographic covariates will meet the ignorability assumption for replicating the results of randomized experiments. Purpose: This study applies within-study comparisons to assess whether pre-Kindergarten (pre-K) treatment effects on achievement outcomes estimated using PSA based on a pretest and demographic covariates can approximate those found in a randomized experiment. Methods: Data—Four studies with samples of pre-K children each provided data on two math achievement outcome measures with baseline pretests and child demographic variables that included race, gender, age, language spoken at home, and mother’s highest education. Research Design and Data Analysis—A randomized study of a pre-K math curriculum provided benchmark estimates of effects on achievement measures. Comparison samples from other pre-K studies were then substituted for the original randomized control and the effects were reestimated using PSA. The correspondence was evaluated using multiple criteria. Results and Conclusions: The effect estimates using PSA were in the same direction as the benchmark estimates, had similar but not identical statistical significance, and did not differ from the benchmarks at statistically significant levels. However, the magnitude of the effect sizes differed and displayed both absolute and relative bias larger than required to show statistical equivalence with formal tests, but those results were not definitive because of the limited statistical power. We conclude that treatment effect estimates based on a single pretest and demographic covariates in PSA correspond to those from a randomized experiment on the most general criteria for equivalence.
Effects of bilingualism on cue weighting: How do bilingual children perceive the Dutch [ɑ]-[a:] contrast?
Authors: Kajouj Fatima , Kager René 
Published: December 2017

The effects of bilingualism on vowel perception and cue weighting behaviour have not been established definitively. What influence does heritage bilingualism have on cue weighting of spectral and durational cues? What role does the duration cue play in cue weighting behaviour of heritage bilinguals: is it universally accessible or related to the first language? Purpose: This study examines the perception and cue weighting of child heritage bilinguals to assess whether exposure to multiple acoustic systems has an effect on cue weighting. Design: Bilinguals with a language containing a durational vowel contrast (Moroccan-Arabic) or a non-durational contrast (Turkish) were tested in order to explore cue preference and cue weighting behaviour for the multiple cued Dutch [ɑ]-[a:] contrast: their alternate first language. Data and analysis: An identification task was performed for the Dutch [ɑ] and [a:]. The F1 and F2 were logarithmically manipulated, in equal steps for the spectral and durational cue, creating a seven-step continuum. The analysis revealed cue preference by examining cue usage and relative cue weight. Conclusions: Dutch monolinguals use both cues but assign more weight to the spectral cue. Moroccan-Arabic/Dutch heritage speaker (HS) bilinguals use both cues, but weigh the spectral cue more heavily. Turkish/Dutch HS bilinguals rely almost exclusively on the spectral cue. This suggests a transfer from the alternate first language onto the perception of Dutch, regardless of language dominance. Originality: Not much research on the cue weighting behaviour of school-aged heritage bilinguals has been conducted, as this age group is yet to develop their perceptual behaviour completely. The results of this case study show an influence on perceptual behaviour as a result of bilingualism. Significance: This study provides insight into the cue weighting behaviour and cue preference of school-aged heritage bilinguals.
A developmental approach to bilingual research: The effects of multi-language experience from early infancy to old age
Authors: Filippi Roberto , D’Souza Dean , Bright Peter 
Published: January 2018

Aims and objectives: In this commentary article we consider the benefits of adopting a neuroconstructivist approach in the study of bilingualism in order to promote empirical and theoretical progress on the fiercely debated issue of whether bilingualism confers genuine cognitive advantages. Significance/implications: Although there is a general consensus that exposure to multilingual environments does not impair cognitive development, there are still doubts on the possible beneficial advantages of bilingualism. Critics argue that the evidence for this advantage might have been confounded by unsound or questionable methodological practices. Some investigators have abandoned research in this area, indicating either that there is no bilingual advantage or that it is impossible to capture and therefore rule out alternative explanations for group differences. Rather than dismissing this important theme in the literature, we advocate a more systematic approach in which the effects of multilinguistic experience are assessed and interpreted across well-defined stages of cognitive development. Conclusions: We encourage a broad, developmentally informed approach to plotting the trajectory of interactions between multi-language learning and cognitive development, using a convergence of neuroimaging and behavioural methods, across the whole lifespan. We believe that, through studying infants, children, young adults, adults and the elderly within a coherent and systematic developmental framework, a more accurate and valid account of potential cognitive and neural changes associated with multi-language learning will emerge.
Shoulder Capsular Surgery in Finland Between 1999 and 2008: A Nationwide Register Analysis
Authors: Kavaja L. , Malmivaara A. , Lähdeoja T. , Remes V. , Sund R. , Paavola M. 
Published: January 2018

Background and Aims: Shoulder capsular surgery is nowadays usually performed arthroscopically, and the proportion of arthroscopic method has rapidly increased during the last two decades. We assessed the incidence of shoulder capsular surgery procedures in Finland between 1999 and 2008. Material and Methods: We gathered the shoulder capsular surgery procedures for all kinds of shoulder instability in Finland between 1999 and 2008 from National Hospital Discharge Register and limited the patient material to include only certain diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition) and Nordic Medico-Statistical Committee procedure code combinations. We analyzed the data in the whole country, between different age groups, and in university hospital districts. Results: The total incidence of shoulder capsular surgery procedures in Finland increased from 17 to 33 per 100,000 person-years. The incidence of arthroscopic procedures increased from 11 to 30 per 100,000 person-years and the proportion of arthroscopic procedures increased from 63% to 92% between years 1999 and 2007. The incidence of shoulder capsular surgery procedures increased on average around 90% in almost all age groups and particularly in the older age groups. We observed no significant geographical variation between university hospital districts. Conclusion: The incidence of shoulder capsular surgery procedures increased on average round 90% in almost all age groups. It seems to be difficult to support the rapidly increased rates of shoulder capsular surgery procedures or the arthroscopic method based on scientific evidence. While also older patients are treated with shoulder capsular surgery, well-defined indications for surgical intervention are needed so that the operations are conducted for the symptomatic patients benefitting most regardless of patients’ age.
Overweight is Associated With Increased Incidence of Minor Complications After Reduction Mammoplasty: A Retrospective Analysis of 453 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Sutinen M. , Eskelinen E. , Kääriäinen M. 
Published: January 2018

Background and Aims: Reduction mammoplasty alleviates macromastia symptoms and improves quality of life. We investigated a large series of consecutive reduction mammoplasties to assess various risk factors for both minor and major complications after the procedure. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 453 consecutive reduction mammoplasties was performed between 2007 and 2010 at an academic tertiary referral center to evaluate risk factors and complications. Results: The incidence of minor and major complications was 40.5% and 8.8%, respectively. Patients with minor complications had both a significantly higher mean body mass index (30.2 vs 28.0) and sternal notch to nipple distance (33.9 vs 32.4 cm) than patients who recovered without complications (p < 0.001 for both comparisons), as well as more visits to the outpatient clinic (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, body mass index was found to be the only significant risk factor for minor complications (p < 0.001). Furthermore, patients with body mass index higher than 27 had a 2.6-fold greater risk of minor complications (p < 0.001). An increase of one unit in body mass index increased the probability of minor complications by 14.1% (p < 0.001). 22 (4.9%) patients developed a hematoma requiring evacuation in the operating room. The mean body mass index of patients who developed a hematoma was 26.4, a value lower than that of patients without this complication (mean 29.0; p = 0.003). This finding was significant also in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.002). Conclusion: A higher body mass index was strongly associated with an increased risk of minor complications after reduction mammoplasty. It is important to inform obese patients about the increased risk of complications and to encourage them to lose weight before surgery.
A Matched Case-Control Study on Open and Endovascular Treatment of Popliteal Artery Aneurysms
Authors: Dorigo W. , Fargion A. , Masciello F. , Piffaretti G. , Pratesi G. , Giacomelli E. , Pratesi C. 
Published: January 2018

Objective: To compare early and late results of open and endovascular management of popliteal artery aneurysm in a retrospective single-center matched case-control study Methods: From 1981 to 2015, 309 consecutive interventions for popliteal artery aneurysm were performed in our institution, in 59 cases with endovascular repair and in 250 cases with open repair. Endovascular repair was preferred in older asymptomatic patients, while open repair was offered more frequently to patients with a thrombosed popliteal artery aneurysm and a poor run-off status. A one-to-one coarsened exact matching on the basis of the baseline demographic, clinical, and anatomical covariates significantly different between the two treatment options was performed and two equivalent groups of 56 endovascular repairs and open repairs were generated. The two groups were compared in terms of perioperative results with χ2 test and of follow-up outcomes with the Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank test. Results: There were no differences between the two groups in terms of perioperative outcomes. Median duration of follow-up was 38 months. Five-year survival rates were 94% in endovascular repair group and 89.5% in open repair group (p = 0.4, log-rank 0.6). Primary patency rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 81%, 78%, and 72% in endovascular repair group and 82.5%, 80%, and 64% in open repair group (p = 0.8, log-rank 0.01). Freedom from reintervention at 5 years was 65.5% in endovascular repair group and 76% in open repair group (p = 0.2, log-rank 1.2). Secondary patency at 1, 3, and 5 years was 94%, 86%, and 74% in endovascular repair group, and 94%, 89%, and 71% in open repair group, respectively (p = 0.9, log-rank 0.01). The rates of limb preservation at 5 years were 94% in endovascular repair group and 86.4% in open repair group (p = 0.3, log-rank 0.8). Conclusion: Open repair and endovascular repair of popliteal artery aneurysms provided in this retrospective single-center experience similar perioperative and follow-up results in equivalent groups of patients.
Decreased sexual function in partners after patients’ first-time myocardial infarction
Authors: Arenhall Eva , Eriksson Mats , Nilsson Ulrica , Steinke Elaine E , Fridlund Bengt 
Published: January 2018

Background: A myocardial infarction event affects not only patients but also partners, although how it affects the partners’ sexual function is not studied. Aim: The purpose of this study was to describe and compare how partners experienced their sexual function one year before with one year after first-time myocardial infarction of their partner. Methods: A longitudinal and comparative design was used. Self-reported data on Watts Sexual Function Questionnaire was collected retrospectively at two occasions from 123 partners (87 women and 36 men), measuring the year prior to the first-time myocardial infarction and the year after. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The total score for Watts Sexual Function Questionnaire showed a significant decrease over time. In all four subscales a decrease was found, which were statistically significant in three out of the four subscales (sexual desire, 19.39 vs 18.61; p<0.001, orgasm, 14.11 vs 13.64; p=0.027 and satisfaction, 12.61 vs 12.31; p=0.042). Twenty-six partners reported that their intercourse frequencies decreased over time, while six partners reported an increased intercourse frequency. Conclusions: Partners’ sexual function decreased after patients’ first-time myocardial infarction. It is important for health personnel to offer information and discussion about sexual function and concerns with both patients and partners after a first-time myocardial infarction.
Hypoglycemia in Hospitalized Hemodialysis Patients With Diabetes: An Observational Study
Authors: Gianchandani Roma Y. , Neupane Shristi , Heung Michael 
Published: January 2018

Introduction: Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia affect outcomes in hospitalized patient. Patients with diabetes and end stage renal disease are prone to hypoglycemia and few studies have evaluated glucometrics to identify the incidence and risk factors for hypoglycemia in this population. Methods: We designed an observational retrospective review of 150 insulin requiring inpatients with diabetes receiving hemodialysis. We collected demographics, baseline characteristics, and glucometric data focusing on episodes of hypoglycemia with glucose cutoffs <70, <54, and <40 mg/dl. Detailed glucose and insulin data for 24 hours before and after hemodialysis was analyzed for each patient in context of a hypoglycemic episode. T-tests, one-way ANOVA, and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: At least one glucose value less than 70 mg/dl was observed in 51% of hemodialysis patients, less than 54 mg/dl in 28%, and less than 40 mg/dl in 11%. Patients with hypoglycemia had a higher HbA1c, standard deviation of glucose ( P = .0009) and higher total daily dose (TDD) of insulin by weight (0.34 units/kg vs 0.23 units/kg, P = .003). We observed a linear increasing risk for hypoglycemia with increasing TDD, with nearly 65% of hypoglycemic episodes occurring with TDD >0.20 units/kg. A majority (61%) of all hypoglycemic episodes occurred in the 24 hours prior to a hemodialysis session. Type 1 diabetes was independently associated with hypoglycemia. Conclusions: Hospitalized diabetes patients undergoing hemodialysis were found to have high rates of hypoglycemia. Our results support using a lower TDD of insulin in this population (<0.23 units/kg/day) and recommend special caution in those with type 1 diabetes.
Feline dry eye syndrome of presumed neurogenic origin: a case report
Authors: Sebbag Lionel , Pesavento Patricia A , Carrasco Sebastian E , Reilly Christopher M , Maggs David J 
Published: January 2018

Case summary A 14-year-old female spayed Abyssinian cat, which about 1 year previously underwent thoracic limb amputation, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for an incompletely excised vaccine-related fibrosarcoma, was presented for evaluation of corneal opacity in the left eye (OS). The ocular surface of both eyes (OU) had a lackluster appearance and there was a stromal corneal ulcer OS. Results of corneal aesthesiometry, Schirmer tear test-1 (STT-1) and tear film breakup time revealed corneal hypoesthesia, and quantitative and qualitative tear film deficiency OU. Noxious olfactory stimulation caused increased lacrimation relative to standard STT-1 values suggesting an intact nasolacrimal reflex. Various lacrimostimulants were administered in succession; namely, 1% pilocarpine administered topically (15 days) or orally (19 days), and topically applied 0.03% tacrolimus (47 days). Pilocarpine, especially when given orally, was associated with notable increases in STT-1 values, but corneal ulceration remained/recurred regardless of administration route, and oral pilocarpine resulted in gastrointestinal upset. Tacrolimus was not effective. After 93 days, the cat became weak and lame and a low thyroxine concentration was detected in serum. The cat was euthanized and a necropsy performed. Both lacrimal glands were histologically normal, but chronic neutrophilic keratitis and reduced conjunctival goblet cell density were noted OU. Relevance and novel information The final diagnosis was dry eye syndrome (DES) of presumed neurogenic origin, associated with corneal hypoesthesia. This report reinforces the importance of conducting tearfilm testing in cats with ocular surface disease, as clinical signs of DES were different from those described in dogs.
Bayesian Adaptive Randomization Trial of Passive Scattering Proton Therapy and Intensity-Modulated Photon Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Liao Zhongxing , Lee J. Jack , Komaki Ritsuko , Gomez Daniel R. , O’Reilly Michael S. , Fossella Frank V. , Blumenschein George R. , Heymach John V. , Vaporciyan Ara A. , Swisher Stephen G. , Allen Pamela K. , Choi Noah Chan , DeLaney Thomas F. , Hahn Stephen M. , Cox James D. , Lu Charles S. , Mohan Radhe 
Published: January 2018

Purpose This randomized trial compared outcomes of passive scattering proton therapy (PSPT) versus intensity-modulated (photon) radiotherapy (IMRT), both with concurrent chemotherapy, for inoperable non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We hypothesized that PSPT exposes less lung tissue to radiation than IMRT and thereby reduces toxicity without compromising tumor control. The primary end points were grade ≥ 3 radiation pneumonitis (RP) and local failure (LF). Patients and Methods Eligible patients had stage IIB to IIIB NSCLC (or stage IV NSCLC with a single brain metastasis or recurrent lung or mediastinal disease after surgery) who were candidates for concurrent chemoradiation therapy. Pairs of treatment plans for IMRT and PSPT were created for each patient. Patients were eligible for random assignment only if both plans satisfied the same prespecified dose-volume constraints for at-risk organs at the same tumor dose. Results Compared with IMRT (n = 92), PSPT (n = 57) exposed less lung tissue to doses of 5 to 10 Gy(RBE), which is the absorbed Gy dose multiplied by the relative biologic effectiveness (RBE) factor for protons; exposed more lung tissue to ≥ 20 Gy(RBE), but exposed less heart tissue at all dose levels between 5 and 80 Gy(RBE). The grade ≥ 3 RP rate for all patients was 8.1% (IMRT, 6.5%; PSPT, 10.5%); corresponding LF rates were 10.7% (all), 10.9% (IMRT), and 10.5% (PSPT). The posterior probability of IMRT being better than PSPT was 0.54. Exploratory analysis showed that the RP and LF rates at 12 months for patients enrolled before versus after the trial midpoint were 21.1% (before) versus 18.2% (after) for the IMRT group (P = .047) and 31.0% (before) versus 13.1% (after) for the PSPT group (P = .027). Conclusion PSPT did not improve dose-volume indices for lung but did for heart. No benefit was noted in RP or LF after PSPT. Improvements in both end points were observed over the course of the trial.
Sex- and Age-Specific Impact of ERK Loss Within the Pituitary Gonadotrope in Mice
Authors: Brown Jessica L , Xie Jianjun , Brieño-Enriquez Miguel Angel , Sones Jennifer , Angulo Cynthia N , Boehm Ulrich , Miller Andrew , Toufaily Chirine , Wang Ying , Bernard Daniel J , Roberson Mark S 
Published: January 2018

AbstractExtracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling regulates hormone action in the reproductive axis, but specific mechanisms have yet to be completely elucidated. In the current study, ERK1 null and ERK2 floxed mice were combined with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR)–internal ribosomal entry site-Cre (GRIC) driver. Female ERK double-knockout (ERKdko) animals were hypogonadotropic, resulting in anovulation and complete infertility. Transcript levels of four gonadotrope-specific genes (GnRHR and the three gonadotropin subunits) were reduced in pituitaries at estrus in ERKdko females, and the postcastration response to endogenous GnRH hyperstimulation was blunted. As females aged, they exhibited abnormal ovarian histology, as well as increased body weight. ERKdko males were initially less affected, showing moderate subfertility, up to 6 months of age. Male ERKdko mice also displayed a blunted response to endogenous GnRH following castration. By 12 months of age, ERKdko males had reduced testicular weights and sperm production. By 18 months of age, the ERKdko males displayed reduced testis and seminal vesicle weights, marked seminiferous tubule degeneration, and a 77% reduction in sperm production relative to controls. As the GRIC is also active in the male germ line, we examined the specific role of ERK loss in the testes using the stimulated by retinoic acid 8 (Stra8)-Cre driver. Whereas ERK loss in GRIC and Stra8 males resulted in comparable losses in sperm production, seminiferous tubule histological degeneration was only observed in the GRIC-ERKdko animals. Our data suggest that loss of ERK signaling and hypogonadotropism within the reproductive axis impacts fertility and gonadal aging.