bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trace Element Behavior in Methane‐Rich and Methane‐Free Groundwater in North and East Texas
Authors: Darvari Roxana , Nicot Jean‐Philippe , Scanlon Bridget R. , Mickler Patrick , Uhlman Kristine
Published: October 2017

There is concern about adverse impacts of natural gas (primarily methane) production on groundwater quality; however, data on trace element concentrations are limited. The objective of this study was to compare the distribution of trace elements in groundwater samples with and without dissolved methane in aquifers overlying the Barnett Shale (Hood and Parker counties, 207 samples) and the Haynesville Shale (Panola County, 42 samples). Both shales have been subjected to intensive hydraulic fracturing for gas production. Well clusters with high dissolved methane were previously found in these counties and are thought to be of natural origin. Overall, groundwater in these counties is of excellent quality with typically low elemental concentrations. Several statistical analyses strongly suggest that most trace element concentrations, generally at low background levels, are no higher and even reduced when dissolved methane is present. In addition, trace element concentrations are not correlated with distance to gas wells. The reduction in trace element concentrations is attributed to anaerobic microbial degradation of methane, is associated with a higher pH (>8.5), and, likely, with precipitation of carbonates and pyrite and formation of clays. Trace and other elements are likely incorporated within the precipitating mineral crystalline network or sorbed. High pH values are found throughout these high‐methane clusters (e.g., Parker‐Hood cluster), even in subregions where methane is not present, which is consistent with a pervasive natural origin of dissolved methane rather than a limited gas well source.
Improved joint health in subjects with severe haemophilia A treated prophylactically with recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein
Authors: Oldenburg J. , Kulkarni R. , Srivastava A. , Mahlangu J. N. , Blanchette V. S. , Tsao E. , Winding B. , Dumont J. , Jain N.
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Joint arthropathy is the long‐term consequence of joint bleeding in people with severe haemophilia.

Aim

This study assessed change in joint health over time in subjects receiving recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein (rFVIIIFc) prophylaxis.

Methods

ALONG is the phase 3 pivotal study in which the benefit of rFVIIIFc as a prophylactic treatment for bleeding control was shown in previously treated severe haemophilia patients ≥12 years of age (arm 1: 25‐65 IU/kg every 3‐5 days, arm 2: 65 IU/kg weekly and arm 3: episodic). After completing ALONG, subjects had the option to enrol into the extension study (ASPIRE). This interim, post hoc analysis assessed changes in joint health over ~2.8 years in these patients.

Results

Forty‐seven subjects had modified Haemophilia Joint Health Score (mHJHS) data at A‐LONG baseline, ASPIRE baseline and ASPIRE Year 1 and Year 2. Compared with A‐LONG baseline (23.4), mean improvement at ASPIRE Year 2 was −4.1 (95% confidence interval [CI], −6.5, −1.8; P = .001). Regardless of prestudy treatment regimen, subjects showed continuous improvement in mHJHS from A‐LONG baseline through ASPIRE Year 2 (prestudy prophylaxis: −2.4, P = .09; prestudy episodic treatment: −7.2, P = .003). Benefits were seen in subjects with target joints (−5.6, P = .005) as well as those with severe arthropathy (−8.8, P = .02). The mHJHS components with the greatest improvement at ASPIRE Year 2 were swelling (−1.4, P = .008), range of motion (−1.1, P = .03) and strength (−0.8, P = .04).

Conclusions

Prophylaxis with rFVIIIFc may improve joint health over time regardless of prestudy prophylaxis or episodic treatment regimens.
High power line collision mortality of threatened bustards at a regional scale in the Karoo, South Africa
Authors: Shaw Jessica M. , Reid Tim A. , Schutgens Maurice , Jenkins Andrew R. , Ryan Peter G.
Published: October 2017

Quantifying avian collisions with power lines at large spatial scales is difficult, but such mortality is of serious conservation concern for many bird species worldwide. To investigate effects on the Endangered Ludwig's Bustard Neotis ludwigii and two other bustard species, mortality surveys were conducted quarterly along high‐voltage transmission lines at five sites (total length 252 km) across the Karoo for 2 years and one low‐voltage distribution line site (95 km) for 1 year. Thirty bird species were found, with Ludwig's Bustards constituting 69% and other bustards a further 18% of carcasses (n = 679 birds). Significant explanatory variables of Ludwig's Bustard collisions were season (collisions more likely in winter), rainfall (less likely in drier areas) and year on transmission lines (highlighting variability between years). Season and proximity to roads were significant variables on distribution lines, with collisions more likely during winter and away from roads. Ludwig's Bustard collision rates (corrected for survey biases) were higher on transmission (1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.40–2.58 bustards/km/year) than on distribution lines (0.86; 95% CI 0.30–1.96), but these smaller lines are four times as extensive in South Africa and so probably kill more birds. Despite being much less abundant, Kori Bustards Ardeotis kori were the second most commonly recovered species, with collision rates of 0.10 (95% CI 0.05–0.19) on transmission lines in the Nama Karoo alone. Collision rates are highly variable but suggest mortality suffered by these two species is worryingly high. This adds to growing concern about the impacts of power lines on bustards globally, so given ongoing expansion to the power grid, collision mitigation measures should be implemented at all new power lines.
Au‐nanoparticle‐decorated SnO2 nanorod sensor with enhanced xylene‐sensing performance
Authors: Feng Caihui , Teng Fei , Xu Yang , Zhang Yajun , Fan Tiehu , Lin Tingting
Published: October 2017

In this work, pure and Au‐nanoparticle‐decorated SnO2 nanorods were prepared via a one‐step hydrothermal method combined with a facile deposition process, and then characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The xylene‐sensing performance of the nanorods was also investigated. The results show that Au nanoparticles with an average diameter of 4‐6 nm were immobilized on the surface of rutile SnO2 nanorods. As the amount of Au increased, the surface‐adsorbed oxygen species gradually increased. The 12 mol% Au‐SnO2 nanorods exhibited the highest response to 50 ppm xylene, a lower operating temperature (279 to 255°C), favorable selectivity, and fast response‐recovery speed (3 and 4 seconds, respectively). These properties made the fabricated nanorods good candidates for xylene detection. The possible mechanism for the enhanced xylene‐sensing performance is discussed.
Contribution of different molecular weight fractions to anticancer effect of sweet potato protein hydrolysates by six proteases on HT‐29 colon cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Miao , Mu Tai‐Hua
Published: October 2017

The contribution of different molecular weight fractions to anticancer effect of sweet potato protein hydrolysates (SPPH) by six proteases on HT‐29 colon cancer cells was investigated. SPPH prepared by six proteases showed certain antiproliferation effect on HT‐29 cells. Compared with other five proteases, SPPH by Alcalase exhibited the highest antiproliferation effect with the lowest IC50 value of 119.72 μg mL−1. SPPH by Alcalase was further separated into four fractions (>10, 5–10, 3–5 and <3 kDa), and <3 kDa fractions showed the strongest antiproliferation effect, which was 43.87% at 100 μg mL−1 (P < 0.05). The <3 kDa fractions could cause G2/M cell cycle arrest with increased p21 expression and induce apoptosis via decreasing Bcl‐2 expression, increasing Bax expression and inducing caspase‐3 activation in HT‐29 cells. In addition, <3 kDa fractions could significantly inhibit cell migration of HT‐29 cells. Thus, SPPH might be potentially used as a natural supplement in functional foods.
Development and characterisation of polylactic acid–gliadin bilayer/trilayer films as carriers of thymol
Authors: Zhu Jun‐You , Tang Chuan‐He , Yin Shou‐Wei , Yang Xiao‐Quan
Published: October 2017

Biodegradable food packaging promises a more sustainable future. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a promising alternative for petroleum‐derived polymers. However, PLA films suffer from poor barrier properties compared with petroleum‐derived ones. To address this issue, we designed bilayer and sandwich‐architectured trilayer films based on PLA and gliadin. We reported firstly the direct formation of PLA–gliadin bilayer/trilayer films without surface modification on PLA film. The films were compact and uniform, and double/triple layers were combined firmly, preventing delamination. This strategy enhanced mechanical resistance, ductility and moisture barrier of gliadin films and concomitantly enhanced the oxygen barrier for PLA films. Thymol loadings endowed bilayer/trilayer films with antimicrobial activity and antioxidant activity. The antimicrobial activity of the films depended on film types, and gliadin layer presented larger inhibition zone than PLA layer, hinting that the films possessed directional releasing role. This study opens a promising route to fabricate bilayer/trilayer architecture helping to create synergism of the biopolymers.
The ABCs of nonfinancial defined contribution (NDC) schemes
Authors: Holzmann Robert
Published: October 2017

Nonfinancial defined contribution (NDC) pension schemes have been successfully implemented since the mid‐1990s in a number of European countries such as Italy, Latvia, Norway, Poland and Sweden. The NDC approach features the lifelong contribution–benefit link of a financial defined contribution (FDC) personal account scheme, but is based on the pay‐as‐you‐go (PAYG) format. At its start out, the PAYG commitments of the preceding defined benefit (DB) system are converted into individual personal accounts, allowing for a smooth transition from the DB to the DC format, while avoiding the very high transition costs inherent in a move from a traditional PAYG DB scheme to a fully funded FDC scheme. The NDC approach implemented by the rule book is able to manage the economic and demographic risks inherent to a pension scheme and, by design, creates financial sustainability. As in any pension scheme, the linchpin between financial stability and adequacy is the retirement age; in the NDC approach the individual retirement age above the minimum age is by design self‐selected and by incentives should increase the effective retirement age in line with population ageing. As a systemic reform approach NDC has become a strong competitor to piecemeal parametric reforms of traditional nonfinancial DB (NDB) schemes. While frequent, these reforms are far from transparent and usually too timid and too late to create financial sustainability while providing adequate pensions for the average contributor. This article offers a largely non‐technical introduction to NDC schemes, their basic elements and advantages over NDB schemes, the key technical frontiers of the approach, and the experiences of NDC countries.
Strength of brittle materials in moderately corrosive environments
Authors: Cook Robert F.
Published: October 2017

The strengths of four brittle materials―cordierite glass ceramic, fused silica, silicon, and polycrystalline alumina were measured after exposure to weakly corrosive water and moderately corrosive buffered HF (BHF) solution. Exposure to water did not alter the strengths in subsequent inert strength tests and decreased the strengths in reactive strength tests. Exposure to BHF increased the strengths in both tests, but only after an incubation exposure time. Prior to the incubation time, the BHF had the same effect as water, suggesting that the bond rupture kinetics were unaffected. Examination of strength‐controlling indentation flaws after the incubation time showed clear corrosive effects on the flaw geometry indicative of reductions in the indentation residual stress fields. The implication is that moderately corrosive environments increase the strength or lifetime of a brittle component by reducing the crack driving force via flaw alteration and do not, as perhaps expected, decrease the strength or lifetime through enhanced chemical reactivity.
Optical properties, thermal stability, and forming region of high refractive index La2O3–TiO2–Nb2O5 glasses
Authors: Mao Zhaozhao , Wang Chaoyue , Zheng Xiaojie , Yu Jianding , Xiong Liangming
Published: October 2017

The high refractive index La2O3–TiO2–Nb2O5 glasses were prepared by containerless processing, and the glass‐forming region was determined. The refractive index showed the range from 2.20 to 2.32, and the values were much higher than those of most optical glasses. The completely miscible 30LaO3/2–(70−x)TiO2–xNbO5/2 (0 ≤ x ≤70) system was fabricated to study the compositional dependence of refractive index and optical transmittance. The crucial determinants of the refractive index of oxide glasses, oxygen molar volume, and electronic polarizability of oxygen ions were calculated. The principle of additivity of glass properties was suitable for the calculation of refractive index between glass and compositional oxides. All the glasses were colorless and transparent in the visible to 6.5 μm middle infrared (MIR) region. These results are useful for designing new optical glasses with high refractive index and low wavelength dispersion in wide optical window.
Increased miR‐223 expression in foetal organs is a signature of acute chorioamnionitis with systemic consequences
Authors: Lee JoonHo , Kim Chong Jai , Kim Jung‐Sun , Lee Deug‐Chan , Ahn Sejin , Yoon Bo Hyun
Published: October 2017

Acute chorioamnionitis, frequently observed in preterm placentas, is a major risk factor for the development of infection and non‐infection‐related adverse perinatal outcomes. MicroRNAs play important roles in immune cell development and function as well as in the development of cancers and neurologic diseases. We sought to investigate the changes in microRNA‐223 (miR‐223) expression and the functional significance of the changes in miR‐223 expression in foetal organs in the presence of acute chorioamnionitis. Using formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue samples from foetal or neonatal autopsy cases, which are the most practical option to study the changes in several organs simultaneously, miR‐223 expression profiles in foetal thymus, lung and liver were compared between cases with and without acute chorioamnionitis. Total RNA was extracted from FFPE specimens and qRT‐PCR was conducted. miR‐223‐3p expression levels in foetal thymus (2.55‐fold), lung (1.93‐fold) and liver (1.70‐fold) were significantly higher in cases with acute chorioamnionitis than in those without. Transfection of pre‐miR‐223‐3p in Jurkat cells and luciferase assay and ribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation followed by qRT‐PCR analysis confirmed the binding of miR‐223 to the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) mRNA and the regulation of FoxO1 by miR‐223. We report for the first time that foetuses with inflammation in the chorioamniotic membranes show increased expression of miR‐223 in the thymus, lung and liver. Furthermore, FoxO1 is a target of miR‐223. These findings suggest that post‐transcriptional regulation of genes by miR‐223 is a component of the foetal inflammatory response, which has systemic consequences in the foetus.
Promotion of trophoblast invasion by lncRNA MVIH through inducing Jun‐B
Authors: Zou Yanfen , Li Qian , Xu Yetao , Yu Xiang , Zuo Qing , Huang Shiyun , Chu Yongli , Jiang Ziyan , Sun Lizhou
Published: October 2017

Preeclampsia (PE), a pregnancy‐specific disorder, is associated with impaired uterine spiral artery remodelling, which is related to the dysfunction of trophoblast cells. Lately, mounting evidence has indicated that aberrant expression of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is associated with various human diseases. The lncRNA MVIH transcript has been shown to decrease the severity of several diseases. However, the biological function of MVIH, which is down‐regulated in placental tissues in PE, has not yet been clarified. Here, we report that MVIH may act as a vital factor in the pathogenesis of PE. In this study, functional analysis revealed that the silencing of MVIH expression via transfection with small interfering RNA (siRNAs) inhibited cell growth, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis in various trophoblast cell lines, and stimulation with MVIH could promote these functions. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that MVIH could modulate Jun‐B protein expression, which has been reported to potentially regulate cell growth and angiogenesis. Further cotransfection assays were performed, revealing that MVIH and Jun‐B have a synergistic effect on the regulation of angiogenesis and cell proliferation. Taking these findings together, MVIH could be associated with PE and may be a candidate biomarker for its diagnosis and treatment.
CDK7 inhibition suppresses rheumatoid arthritis inflammation via blockage of NF‐κB activation and IL‐1β/IL‐6 secretion
Authors: Hong Honghai , Zeng Yingmin , Jian Wenxuan , Li Lei , Lin Liying , Mo Yousheng , Liu Meiling , Fang Shuhuan , Xia Yong
Published: October 2017

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by joint swelling, joint tenderness and destruction of synovial joints, leading to severe disability. Anti‐inflammatory drugs and disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may improve RA process. However, in most patients the treatment effect is still not satisfactory. Cyclin‐dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) plays a well‐established role in the regulation of the eukaryotic cell division cycle, and recent studies indicated that it exerted anti‐inflammatory effect. In our previous research, we found that inhibition of CDK7 by highly selective inhibitor BS‐181 significantly impeded the development of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) mice. However, the underlying mechanism of CDK7 in RA remains to be explored. We elucidated the molecular mechanism of CDK7 inhibition in RA inflammation by administration of CDK7 highly selective inhibitor BS‐181 and siRNA‐CDK7. We found that both IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and RANKL transcript levels and IL‐1β/IL‐6 secretion were effectively suppressed by BS‐181 treatment as well as CDK7 knockdown. Furthermore, CDK7 inhibition prevented NF‐κB signalling pathway activation and restrained p65 nuclear translocation. Moreover, CDK7 selective inhibitor BS‐181 also blocked phosphorylation of p65 in MH7A cells. These results strongly indicate that CDK7 inhibition by BS‐181 and siRNA‐CDK7 significantly suppresses rheumatoid arthritis inflammation, which may be via blockage of NF‐κB signalling pathway and IL‐1β/IL‐6 secretion.
Practitioner Review: Current best practice in the use of parent training and other behavioural interventions in the treatment of children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Daley David , Van Der Oord Saskia , Ferrin Maite , Cortese Samuele , Danckaerts Marina , Doepfner Manfred , Van den Hoofdakker Barbara J. , Coghill David , Thompson Margaret , Asherson Philip , Banaschewski Tobias , Brandeis Daniel , Buitelaar Jan , Dittmann Ralf W. , Hollis Chris , Holtmann Martin , Konofal Eric , Lecendreux Michel , Rothenberger Aribert , Santosh Paramala , Simonoff Emily , Soutullo Cesar , Steinhausen Hans Christoph , Stringaris Argyris , Taylor Eric , Wong Ian C.K. , Zuddas Alessandro , Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.
Published: October 2017

Background

Behavioural interventions are recommended for use with children and young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, specific guidance for their implementation based on the best available evidence is currently lacking.

Methods

This review used an explicit question and answer format to address issues of clinical concern, based on expert interpretation of the evidence with precedence given to meta‐analyses of randomised controlled trials.

Results

On the basis of current evidence that takes into account whether outcomes are blinded, behavioural intervention cannot be supported as a front‐line treatment for core ADHD symptoms. There is, however, evidence from measures that are probably blinded that these interventions benefit parenting practices and improve conduct problems which commonly co‐occur with ADHD, and are often the main reason for referral. Initial positive results have also been found in relation to parental knowledge, children's emotional, social and academic functioning – although most studies have not used blinded outcomes. Generic and specialised ADHD parent training approaches – delivered either individually or in groups – have reported beneficial effects. High‐quality training, supervision of therapists and practice with the child, may improve outcomes but further evidence is required. Evidence for who benefits the most from behavioural interventions is scant. There is no evidence to limit behavioural treatments to parents with parenting difficulties or children with conduct problems. There are positive effects of additive school‐based intervention for the inattentive subtype. Targeting parental depression may enhance the effects of behavioural interventions.

Conclusions

Parent training is an important part of the multimodal treatment of children with ADHD, which improves parenting, reduces levels of oppositional and noncompliant behaviours and may improve other aspects of functioning. However, blinded evidence does not support it as a specific treatment for core ADHD symptoms. More research is required to understand how to optimise treatment effectiveness either in general or for individual patients and explore potential barriers to treatment uptake and engagement. In terms of selecting which intervention formats to use, it seems important to acknowledge and respond to parental treatment preferences.
Dimensional assessment of schizotypal, psychotic, and other psychiatric traits in children and their parents: development and validation of the Childhood Oxford‐Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences on a representative US sample
Authors: Evans David W. , Lusk Laina G. , Slane Mylissa M. , Michael Andrew M. , Myers Scott M. , Uljarević Mirko , Mason Oliver , Claridge Gordon , Frazier Thomas
Published: October 2017

Background

Healthy functioning relies on a variety of perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral abilities that are distributed throughout the normal population. Variation in these traits define the wide range of neurodevelopmental (NDD) and neuropsychiatric (NPD) disorders. Here, we introduce a new measure for assessing these traits in typically developing children and children at risk for NDD and NPD from age 2 to 18 years.

Method

The Childhood Oxford‐Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (CO‐LIFE) was created as a dimensional, parent‐report measure of schizotypal and psychotic traits in the general population. Parents of 2,786 children also self‐reported on an adapted version of the Oxford‐Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (O‐LIFE‐US).

Results

The CO‐LIFE resulted in continuous distributions for the total score and for each of three factor analytically‐derived subscales. Item response theory (IRT) analyses indicated strong reliability across the score range for the O‐LIFE‐US and the CO‐LIFE. Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were high across all scales. Parent–child intraclass correlations were consistent with high heritability. The scales discriminated participants who reported a lifetime psychiatric diagnosis from those who reported no diagnosis. The O‐LIFE‐US and CO‐LIFE scores correlated positively with the Social Responsiveness Scale 2 (SRS‐2) indicating good convergent validity.

Conclusions

Like the original O‐LIFE, the O‐LIFE‐US and the CO‐LIFE are valid and reliable tools that reflect the spectrum of psychiatric and schizotypal traits in the general population. Such scales are necessary for conducting family studies that aim to examine a range of psychological and behavioral traits in both children and adults and are well‐suited for the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) initiative of the NIMH.
STOCK‐FLOW CONSISTENT MACROECONOMIC MODELS: A SURVEY
Authors: Nikiforos Michalis , Zezza Gennaro
Published: October 2017

The stock‐flow consistent (SFC) modelling approach, grounded in the pioneering work of Wynne Godley and James Tobin in the 1970s, has been adopted by a growing number of researchers in macroeconomics, especially after the publication of Monetary Economics by Godley and Lavoie, which provided a general framework for the analysis of whole economic systems, and the recognition that macroeconomic models integrating real markets with flow‐of‐funds analysis had been particularly successful in predicting the Great Recession of 2007–2009. We introduce the general features of the SFC approach for a closed economy, showing how the core model has been extended to address issues such as financialization and income distribution. We next discuss the implications of the approach for models of open economies and compare the methodologies adopted in developing SFC empirical models for whole countries. We review the contributions where the SFC approach is being adopted as the macroeconomic closure of microeconomic agent‐based models, and how the SFC approach is at the core of new research in ecological macroeconomics. Finally, we discuss the appropriateness of the name ‘SFC’ for the class of models we survey.
FINANCIALIZATION AND INVESTMENT: A SURVEY OF THE EMPIRICAL LITERATURE
Authors: Davis Leila E.
Published: October 2017

An expanding literature analyses the implications of the post‐1980 expansion of finance in advanced economies – a process summarized as ‘financialization’ – for capital accumulation. This paper surveys the empirical literature on financialization and investment to take stock of where we are and to identify questions for further research. Because ‘financialization’ is widely recognized to be ambiguously defined, I first introduce empirical indicators of financialization in this literature. This categorization elucidates three approaches to measuring financialization in the context of investment. The first two approaches emphasize rising income flows between nonfinancial corporations (NFCs) and finance: first, growth in NFCs’ financial incomes and, second, growth in NFCs’ payments to creditors and shareholders. Rising financial profits are, notably, widely used to suggest financial assets and incomes ‘crowd out’ physical investment. I contend that these flow‐based indicators of financialization capture important relationships between changes in firm financial behaviour and investment, but also raise questions about determinants underlying NFCs’ changing portfolio and financing decisions. The third approach to defining financialization emphasizes the best‐developed behavioural explanation linking financialization to reduced investment: shareholder value orientation. In future research, scope remains for further attention to behavioural drivers of the empirical trends summarizing financialization.
Health‐related quality of life in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: The child's perspective
Authors: Joyce Patrick , O'Rourke Claudia , McDermott Brett , Heussler Helen
Published: October 2017

Aim

The 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22qDS) is a genetic syndrome that results in a complex physical, behavioural and psychological phenotype. Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) is an established clinical outcome that has been minimally studied in children with 22qDS. The purpose of this study was to explore HRQOL among children and adolescents with 22qDS from the perspective of the child and to determine how their HRQOL measures compare to those of a healthy peer group and a chronic disease peer group.

Methods

We recruited individuals between the ages of 8 and 18 with a positive genetic diagnosis of 22qDS (n = 28) and a parent of the child. Participants completed the paired Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 questionnaires. Comparisons were made with a previous study of healthy and diseased children.

Results

Children with 22qDS had a significantly poorer HRQOL when compared to age‐matched cohorts of healthy children and children with chronic disease. Within the study, there was variable proxy‐self agreement, and children with 22qDS reported lower HRQOL than adolescents with 22qDS.

Conclusion

This study is the first to explore HRQOL from the perspective of the child with 22qDS, and our findings support the existing literature that this condition is associated with a poor HRQOL.
Comparison of methods to estimate glomerular filtration rate in paediatric oncology patients
Authors: Llanos‐Paez Carolina C , Staatz Christine , Lawson Rachael , Hennig Stefanie
Published: October 2017

Aims

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is estimated daily in paediatric oncology patients; however, few equations, particularly ones that do not include serum creatinine, have been evaluated in this population. We aimed to compare the predictive performance of different equations available to estimate GFR in paediatric oncology patients.

Methods

GFR was measured (mGFR) in paediatric oncology patients based on a chromium 51‐labeled ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid excretion test. GFR was estimated (eGFR) in these same patients using equations identified from the literature. mGFR and eGFR values were compared, and the predictive performance of various eGFR equations was assessed in terms of their bias, precision and accuracy.

Results

In total, 124 mGFR values ranging from 7 to 146 mL/min were available for analysis from 73 children. Twenty‐two equations were identified from the literature. The Flanders metadata equation displayed the lowest absolute bias (mean error of 0.9 mL/min) and the greatest precision (root mean square error of 13.1 mL/min). The univariate Schwartz equation predicted the highest percentage (81.5%) of eGFR values within 30% of mGFR values, and the Rhodin fat‐free mass equation predicted the highest percentage (37.1%) of eGFR values within 10% of mGFR values.

Conclusions

A number of equations were identified that could be used to estimate renal function in paediatric oncology patients; however, none was found to be highly accurate. The Flanders metadata equation and univariate Schwartz performed the best in this study, and we would suggest that these two equations may be used cautiously in paediatric oncology patients for clinical decision making, understanding their limitations.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the upper airway in patients with quadriplegia and obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: O'donoghue Fergal J. , Meaklim Hailey , Bilston Lynne , Hatt Alice , Connelly Alan , Jackson Graeme , Farquharson Shawna , Sutherland Kate , Cistulli Peter A. , Brown Douglas J. , Berlowitz David J.
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate upper airway anatomy in quadriplegics with obstructive sleep apnea. Fifty subjects were recruited from three hospitals in Australia: people with quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury and obstructive sleep apnea (n = 11), able‐bodied people with obstructive sleep apnea (n = 18), and healthy, able‐bodied controls (n = 19). All underwent 3‐Tesla magnetic resonance imaging of their upper airway. A subgroup (n = 34) received a topical vasoconstrictor, phenylephrine and post‐phenylephrine magnetic resonance imaging. Mixed‐model analysis indicated no significant differences in total airway lumen volume between the three groups (P = 0.086). Spinal cord injury–obstructive sleep apnea subjects had a significantly larger volume of soft palate (P = 0.020) and retroglossal lateral pharyngeal walls (P = 0.043) than able‐bodied controls. Able‐bodied–obstructive sleep apnea subjects had a smaller mandible volume than spinal cord injury–obstructive sleep apnea subjects and able‐bodied control subjects (P = 0.036). No differences were seen in airway length between groups when controlling for height (P = 0.055). There was a marginal increase in velopharyngeal volume across groups post‐phenylephrine (P = 0.050), and post hoc testing indicated the difference was confined to the able‐bodied–obstructive sleep apnea group (P < 0.001). No other upper airway structures showed significant changes with phenylephrine administration. In conclusion, people with obstructive sleep apnea and quadriplegia do not have a structurally smaller airway than able‐bodied subjects. They did, however, have greater volumes of soft palate and lateral pharyngeal walls, possibly due to greater neck fat deposition. The acute response to upper airway topical vasoconstriction was not enhanced in those with obstructive sleep apnea and quadriplegia. Changes in upper airway anatomy likely contribute to the high incidence in obstructive sleep apnea in quadriplegic subjects.
Effects of late‐night short‐sleep on in‐home polysomnography: relation to adult age and sex
Authors: Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Lekander Mats , Nilsonne Gustav , Tamm Sandra , D'onofrio Paolo , Kecklund Göran , Fischer Håkan , Schwarz Johanna
Published: October 2017

Bedtime is frequently delayed by many factors in life, and a homeostatic response to the delay may compensate partly for increased time awake and shortened sleep. Because sleep becomes shorter with age and women complain of disturbed sleep more often than men, age and sex differences in the homeostatic response to a delayed bedtime may modify the homeostatic response. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of late‐night short‐sleep (3 h with awakening at about 07:00 hours) on in‐home recorded sleep in men and women in two age groups (20–30 and 65–75 years). Results (N = 59) showed that late‐night short‐sleep was associated with an increase in percentage of N3 sleep and a decrease in percentage of rapid eye movement sleep, as well as decreases in several measures of sleep discontinuity and rapid eye movement density. Men showed a smaller decrease in percentage of rapid eye movement sleep than women in response to late‐night short‐sleep, as did older individuals of both sexes compared with younger. Older men showed a weaker percentage of N3 sleep in response to late‐night short‐sleep than younger men. In general, men showed a greater percentage of rapid eye movement sleep and a lower percentage of N3 sleep than women, and older individuals showed a lower percentage of N3 sleep than younger. In particular, older men showed very low levels of percentage of N3 sleep. We conclude that older males show less of a homeostatic response to late‐night short‐sleep. This may be an indication of impaired capacity for recovery in older men. Future studies should investigate if this pattern can be linked to gender‐associated differences in morbidity and mortality.
Assessment of serum Golgi protein 73 as a biomarker for the diagnosis of significant fibrosis in patients with chronic HBV infection
Authors: Cao Z. , Li Z. , Wang Y. , Liu Y. , Mo R. , Ren P. , Chen L. , Lu J. , Li H. , Zhuang Y. , Liu Y. , Wang X. , Zhao G. , Tang W. , Xiang X. , Wang H. , Cai W. , Liu L. , Zhu C. , Bao S. , Xie Q.
Published: October 2017

Transient elastography (TE) is accurate in staging fibrosis noninvasively. However, a reliable serum biomarker with comparable accuracy is also important, especially when TE is unreliable/unavailable. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum Golgi protein 73 (GP73) for significant fibrosis in patients with chronic HBV infection. A total of 801 patients with chronic liver disease (CLD; 492 chronic HBV infection and 309 non‐HBV liver disease) with liver biopsy performance were enrolled. Healthy controls (n = 180) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients (n = 85) were included for comparisons. Liver biopsy was used as the reference method for fibrosis staging. Serum GP73 level was measured in duplicate in double‐blind fashion. Serum GP73 was highest in HCC but also significantly higher in chronic hepatitis B than in healthy controls. The elevation of serum GP73 in non‐HCC patients was significantly associated with the presence of significant fibrosis independently of ALT level, liver stiffness (LS) value, inflammation grade and other confounding factors. The diagnostic performance of serum GP73 was accurate in antiviral‐naïve HBV patients (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC], 0.76 95% CI: 0.72‐0.81) but not in patients with ongoing antiviral treatment (AUROC, 0.60). The utility of serum GP73 was also confirmed in non‐HBV CLD (AUROC, 0.80 95% CI: 0.75‐0.85). Serum GP73 was comparable to LS (AUROC, 0.78 95% CI: 0.73‐0.82) and significantly better than AST to platelet ratio index (APRI) (AUROC, 0.67 95% CI: 0.62‐0.72) and FIB‐4 (AUROC, 0.68 95% CI: 0.63‐0.73). In conclusion, serum GP73 is an accurate serum marker for significant fibrosis in chronic HBV infection, with higher accuracy than APRI and FIB‐4. Serum GP73 is potentially a complementary tool for TE when evaluating the necessity of antiviral treatment, particularly in patients without definite antiviral indication.
Telbivudine therapy for gravidas with chronic hepatitis B infection and patients at risk of renal impairment
Authors: Liu J. , Chen T. , Zhao Y.
Published: October 2017

Hepatitis B virus infection is currently the most important cause of chronic viral hepatitis worldwide and is one of the most frequent causes of end‐stage liver disease. With the international implementation of the hepatitis B vaccine and combined prophylaxis for infants born toHBsAg(+) mothers, the prevalence of hepatitis B has decreased remarkably. However, intra‐uterine transmission has become a critical bottleneck for eliminating hepatitis B infection. The efficacy of nucleos(t)ide analogs on inhibiting hepatitis B replication has been widely confirmed, and the quality of life and the survival of individuals with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have improved to a great degree. However, with the availability of long‐term antiviral treatment and the ever increasing ageing population, renal disorders should be considered when choosing antiviral medicines. The antiviral efficacy and safety of telbivudine (LdT) have been shown in patients withCHBinfection, and LdT is approved as a class B drug for pregnancy. Furthermore, the renal protective function of LdT has been demonstrated recently. In this review, we will focus on the efficacy and safety of LdT in gravidas withCHBinfection, as well as the renal protective function of LdT inCHBpatients. LdT might provide physicians with a solid option for effectively treating patients withCHB, especially gravidas or those either with or at risk of renal impairment.
Improvement of telbivudine on renal function and massive proteinuria: A case report
Authors: Liu J. , Yao N. , Zhao Y.
Published: October 2017

The quality of life and extended survival of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), especially those with decompensated liver cirrhosis, has been improved markedly with nucleos(t)ide analogs treatment. In such conditions, the influence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and antiviral agents on renal function becomes a consideration with long‐term use and ageing. Membranous glomerulonephritis has been confirmed as the most common histological renal lesion. In this study, we reported a CHB patient with decompensated cirrhosis showing a significant improvement in massive proteinuria along with elevation of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) after 1 year treatment with telbivudine. However, a well‐designed study should be performed to confirm the causal association, and the molecular mechanism needs further investigation.
Comparison of 208‐week sequential therapy with telbivudine and entecavir in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients with suboptimal responses to 24 weeks of Peg‐IFNα‐2a therapy: An open‐labelled, randomized, controlled, “real‐life” trial
Authors: Luo X. D. , Chen X. F. , Zhou Y. , Chen X. P.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of 208‐week sequential therapy with telbivudine and entecavir in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with suboptimal responses to 24 weeks of Peg‐IFNα‐2a therapy. This was an open‐label, randomized, controlled, “real‐life” trial. HBeAg‐positive CHB patients with serum HBV DNA ≥5.0 lg IU/mL and a < 1 lg IU/mL decline of HBsAg level from baseline who underwent at least 24 weeks of Peg‐IFNα‐2a therapy were included. Enrolled patients were randomized to receive either telbivudine (600 mg/d, n = 95) or entecavir (0.5 mg/d, n = 95) for 208 consecutive weeks. Six patients were lost to follow‐up (4 patients in the telbivudine group and 2 in the entecavir group). Treatment was combined with adefovir when week 24 HBV DNA levels declined to <2 lg IU/mL versus baseline, when viral breakthrough occurred during treatment,or when HBV DNA remained detectable at 52 weeks (HBV DNA ≥500 IU/mL). Responses and safety were assessed after 208 weeks of treatment. There were no significant differences among the baseline characteristics, including age, gender, and ALT, HBV DNA, HBsAg or HBeAg levels. After 208 weeks of treatment, there was no significant difference in the rates of undetectable HBV DNA (HBV DNA<500 IU/mL) between the telbivudine group and the entecavir group (84/91,92.31% vs 88/93,94.62%, respectively, P = .525). More patients in the telbivudine group than the entecavir group achieved HBeAg clearance (74.73% vs 46.24%, respectively, P < .001) and HBeAg seroconversion (64.84% vs 38.71%, respectively, P < .001). Univariate analysis (Enter, a = 0.05) of both groups showed that telbivudine, male gender and baseline HBeAg levels were significantly correlated with HBeAg seroconversion after 208 weeks of sequential therapy. Cox regression analysis (Enter, a = 0.05) of the telbivudine group showed that the HBeAg seroconversion rate at 208 weeks was significantly correlated with gender (male) (P = .006, HR=4.406), baseline HBeAg level (P = .005, HR=0.433) and 24 w‐HBeAg level reduction of more than 0.5 lg IU/ml from baseline (P = .027, HR=0.487). All patients tolerated sequential telbivudine treatment; only slightly elevated creatine kinase levels were observed. Stratification analysis found that patients with baseline HBeAg levels less than 3 lg COI who switched to telbivudine may have had significantly improved HBeAg seroconversion rates. In conclusion, telbivudine promotes HBeAg seroconversion that merits investigation in HBeAg‐positive CHB patients with suboptimal responses to 24 weeks of Peg‐IFNα‐2a therapy. We would suggest that patients with baseline HBeAg levels under 3 lg COI switch to telbivudine to achieve higher HBeAg seroconversion rates and use the early reductions in HBeAg levels (24 weeks) to guide treatment.
The experience of management of chronic hepatitis B in China
Authors: Ren H.
Published: October 2017

During the past 30 years, with the possible biggest population with chronic HBV infection in the world, the physicians and scientists in China have unique experience in the fight against HBV. Even though some drugs are not recommended anymore, but this kind of experience are very helpful for the development of new medicine and strategy against HBV.
Corticosterone levels and immunological indices in stressed juvenile broad‐snouted caimans
Authors: Moleón M. S. , Parachú Marcó M. V. , Pietrobon E. O. , Jahn G. A. , Beldomenico P. M. , Siroski P. A.
Published: October 2017

The effect of stress in wild vertebrates has been little investigated, especially in crocodilians. In the wild, crocodilians face numerous stressors such as climatic factors, toxicant exposure, and infection. Exposure to stressors may affect the physiological processes of crocodilians, with consequences on its fitness and survival. We experimentally investigated the effect of a 4‐week exposure to environmental challenges (food restriction, water restriction and high temperature) on growth, immunological investment and corticosterone levels of juvenileCaiman latirostris. White blood cells counts, natural antibody (NAb) levels and complement system activity were evaluated to characterize the influence of those treatments on the immune system. We found deprivation of food resulted in reduction in growth and body condition, whereas high temperature had a beneficial effect on the variables measured. Individuals exposed to heat treatment (37 ± 1°C) grew more, and obtained better body condition, higherNAb levels, and significantly lower corticosterone levels relative to caimans in all other groups. Food restricted caimans also illustrated higherNAb levels. Our findings suggest thatC. latirostrisjuveniles are able to tolerate environmental stressors and they are even favored by high temperatures.
Widespread sampling biases in herbaria revealed from large‐scale digitization
Authors: Daru Barnabas H. , Park Daniel S. , Primack Richard B. , Willis Charles G. , Barrington David S. , Whitfeld Timothy J. S. , Seidler Tristram G. , Sweeney Patrick W. , Foster David R. , Ellison Aaron M. , Davis Charles C.
Published: October 2017

Nonrandom collecting practices may bias conclusions drawn from analyses of herbarium records. Recent efforts to fully digitize and mobilize regional floras online offer a timely opportunity to assess commonalities and differences in herbarium sampling biases.

We determined spatial, temporal, trait, phylogenetic, and collector biases in c. 5 million herbarium records, representing three of the most complete digitized floras of the world: Australia (AU), South Africa (SA), and New England, USA (NE).

We identified numerous shared and unique biases among these regions. Shared biases included specimens collected close to roads and herbaria; specimens collected more frequently during biological spring and summer; specimens of threatened species collected less frequently; and specimens of close relatives collected in similar numbers. Regional differences included overrepresentation of graminoids in SA and AU and of annuals in AU; and peak collection during the 1910s in NE, 1980s in SA, and 1990s in AU. Finally, in all regions, a disproportionately large percentage of specimens were collected by very few individuals. We hypothesize that these mega‐collectors, with their associated preferences and idiosyncrasies, shaped patterns of collection bias via ‘founder effects’.

Studies using herbarium collections should account for sampling biases, and future collecting efforts should avoid compounding these biases to the extent possible.