bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N‐acetylcysteine in the treatment of craving in substance use disorders: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Duailibi Michel Silvio , Cordeiro Quirino , Brietzke Elisa , Ribeiro Marcelo , LaRowe Steve , Berk Michael , Trevizol Alisson Paulino
Published: September 2017

Background and Objectives

Recent neurobiological evidences along with clinical observations justify the use of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) as a medication for craving. The objective of our study was to assess the evidence of efficacy of NAC for craving in substance use disorders in randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

Methods

Systematic review of the RCTs literature (PROSPERO number 56698) until February, 2017, using MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov. We included seven RCTs (n = 245); most with small‐to‐moderate sample sizes. The main outcome was the Hedges’ g for continuous scores in a random‐effects model. Heterogeneity was evaluated with the I2 and the χ2 test. Publication bias was evaluated using the Begg's funnel plot and the Egger's test. Meta‐regression was performed using the random‐effects model.

Results

Comparing NAC versus placebo, NAC was significantly superior for craving symptoms (Hedges’ g = 0.94; 95%CI 0.55–1.33). The funnel plot showed the risk of publication bias was low and between‐study heterogeneity was not significant (I2 = 44.4%, p = 0.07 for the χ2 test). A subgroup analysis performed using meta‐regression showed no particular influence.

Discussion and Conclusions

NAC was superior to placebo for craving reduction in SUDs. The relatively small number of trials and their heterogeneous methodology were possible limitations; however, these positive thrilling results stimulate further studies for clarifying the potential impact of NAC for craving symptoms in SUDs.Scientific Significance: The safety profile of NAC and favorable tolerability, in addition to being an over‐the‐counter medication, presents with an interesting potential clinical use for craving in SUDs.

Scientific Significance

The safety profile of NAC and its favorable tolerability, in addition to being anover‐the‐counter medication, presents with an interesting potential clinical use for craving in SUDs. (Am J Addict 2017;26:660–666)
Knowing and Forgetting the Easter 1916 Rising
Authors: O'Driscoll Cian
Published: September 2017

The centenary of the Easter 1916 Rising was a source of both celebration and no little anxiety in Ireland. On the one hand, the centenary provided a welcome opportunity for Irish people to take stock of the violent past that optimists hope it has recently left behind. On the other hand, it signalled an occasion for a form of legitimacy contest as various groups, the Irish government among them, jostled to present themselves as the true heirs of the Rising. Sparked by these controversies, this paper asks what meaning the Rising holds for contemporary Ireland. Is it a sacrifice to be redeemed, a patrimony to be claimed, or a past to be shucked off? The answer to this question, it argues, will have a significant bearing on how Ireland faces an uncertain future in an increasingly dangerous world.
Public Opinion, Campaign Politics and Media Audiences: New Australian Perspectives
Authors: Abjorensen Norman
Published: September 2017

Public Opinion, Campaign Politics and Media Audiences: New Australian Perspectives. Edited by Bridget Griffin‐Foley and Sean Scalmer (Carlton: Melbourne University Press, 2017), pp. vi + 256 AU$79.99 (cloth); AU$59.99 (pb); AU$16.99 (eBook).
The House that Jack Built: Jack Mundey, Green Bans Hero
Authors: Piccini Jon
Published: September 2017

The House that Jack Built: Jack Mundey, Green Bans Hero. By James Colman (Sydney: NewSouth Books, 2016), 376pp., AU$49.95 (pb).
China's Future
Authors: Golley Jane
Published: September 2017

China's Future. By David Shambaugh (Cambridge: Polity Press, 2016), pp.224. £13.22 (pb).
A Difficult Neighbourhood. Essays on Russia and East‐Central Europe Since World War II
Authors: Gill Graeme
Published: September 2017

A Difficult Neighbourhood. Essays on Russia and East‐Central Europe Since World War II. By John Besemeres (Canberra: Australian National University Press, 2016). Three maps. AU$60.00 (pb).
Transnational Radicalism and the Connected Lives of Tom Mann and Robert Samuel Ross
Authors: Bongiorno Frank
Published: September 2017

Transnational Radicalism and the Connected Lives of Tom Mann and Robert Samuel Ross. By Neville Kirk (Liverpool: Liverpool University Press, 2017), pp.viii + 293. £80 (cloth).
How the Public Defines Terrorism
Authors: Huff Connor , Kertzer Joshua D.
Published: September 2017

Every time a major violent act takes place in the United States, a public debate erupts as to whether it should be considered terrorism. Political scientists have offered a variety of conceptual frameworks, but have neglected to explore how ordinary citizens understand terrorism, despite the central role the public plays in our understanding of the relationship between terrorism and government action in the wake of violence. We synthesize components of both scholarly definitions and public debates to formulate predictions for how various attributes of incidents affect the likelihood they are perceived as terrorism. Combining a conjoint experiment with machine learning techniques and automated content analysis of media coverage, we show the importance not only of the type and severity of violence, but also the attributed motivation for the incident and social categorization of the actor. The findings demonstrate how the language used to describe violent incidents, for which the media has considerable latitude, affects the likelihood the public classifies incidents as terrorism.
An investigation of defamilization/familization measures to assist women to save pension income and strengthen the adult worker model—The case of Hong Kong
Authors: Yu Sam W. K. , Foster Liam , Chau Ruby C. M. , Lee Anna M. Y.
Published: September 2017

This paper examines the use of defamilization and familization measures to develop an analytical framework to inform the search for ways to improve women's opportunities to accumulate pension income. This framework is associated with the use of the adult worker model. Three main analytical tasks are presented. Firstly, we discuss different interpretations of what defamilization entails. Based on these different views, two types of defamilization measures utilized by the government are identified: care‐focused and economic defamilization. Secondly, with reference to different definitions of the adult worker model, we develop a framework for identifying ways to make the provision of the government's defamilization measures and its alternatives (care‐focused and economic familization measures) more effective in assisting women to accumulate pension income. Thirdly, using the case of Hong Kong, we demonstrate the application of this analytical framework.
Lithium reduces the span of G protein‐activated K+ (GIRK) channel inhibition in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Dascal Nathan , Rubinstein Moran
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Lithium (Li+) is one of the most widely used treatments for bipolar disorder (BD). However, the molecular and neuronal basis of BD, as well as the mechanisms of Li+ actions are poorly understood. Cellular and biochemical studies identified G proteins as being among the cellular targets for Li+ action, while genetic studies indicated an association with the KCNJ3 gene, which encodes the G protein‐activated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels. GIRK channels regulate neuronal excitability by mediating the inhibitory effects of multiple neurotransmitters and contribute to the resting potassium conductance. Here, we explored the effects of therapeutic dose of Li+ on neuronal excitability and the role of GIRK channels in Li+ actions.

Methods

Effects of Li+ on excitability were studied in hippocampal brain slices using whole‐cell electrophysiological recordings.

Results

A therapeutic dose of Li+ (1 mM) dually regulated the function of GIRK channels in hippocampal slices. Li+ hyperpolarized the resting membrane potential of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons and prolonged the latency to reach the action potential threshold and peak. These effects were abolished in the presence of tertiapin, a specific GIRK channel blocker, and at doses above the therapeutic window (2 mM). In contrast, Li+ reduced GIRK channel opening induced by GABAB receptor (GABABR) activation, causing reduced hyperpolarization of the membrane potential, attenuated reduction of input resistance, and a smaller decrease of neuronal firing.

Conclusions

A therapeutic dose of Li+ reduces the span of GIRK channel‐mediated inhibition due to enhancement of basal GIRK currents and inhibition of GABABR evoked responses, providing an important link between Li+ action, neuronal excitability, and cellular and genetic targets of BD.
Lithium and suicide in mood disorders: Updated meta‐review of the scientific literature
Authors: Smith Katharine A , Cipriani Andrea
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Suicide and suicidal behaviour are increased in mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorders. Observational studies and small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support the idea that taking lithium is associated with a reduction in these rates. This paper aims to review the best evidence for the effect of lithium on rates of suicide and self harm.

Methods

We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library systematically for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of RCTs of lithium and suicide and self harm published between January 1980 and June 2017. In the case of multiple publications on the same topic, only the most recent or most comprehensive review was considered.

Results

A large number of reviews were identified, but only 16 publications were systematic reviews. Of these, three systematic reviews of lithium and suicide rates and one of lithium and self harm confined only to RCTs were identified. Despite some methodological concerns and heterogeneity in terms of participants, diagnoses, comparators, durations, and phase of illness, the evidence to date is overwhelmingly in favour of lithium as an antisuicidal agent, even balanced against any potential disadvantages of its use in regular clinical practice.

Conclusions

The anti‐suicidal effects of lithium have been consistently reported over the past 40 years. The most robust evidence comes from RCTs, but these results are also discussed in the context of the difficulties in conducting high quality studies in this area, and the supporting evidence that observational and non‐randomized studies can also provide. Given this evidence, however, the use of lithium is still underrepresented in clinical practice and should be incorporated more assertively into current guidelines.
SOME NOTES ON THE GEOGRAPHY OF TOURISM: A COMMENT
Authors: CHADWICK A. (BOB)
Published: September 2017

Britton and Mieczkowski have made a number of interesting and thoughtful statements upon which I wish to make a few observations.
Black Adolescent Males: Intersections Among Their Gender Role Identity and Racial Identity and Associations With Self‐Concept (Global and School)
Authors: Buckley Tamara R.
Published: September 2017

Intersectional approaches for understanding identity have gained momentum in the social sciences. Black adolescent males are often perceived as threatening, underachieving, and hypermasculine, which is reinforced through media outlets and psychological research that portray them as a monolith rather than a heterogeneous group with multiple intersecting identities. This cross‐sectional study of 70 Black adolescent males between 14 and 18 years old simultaneously explores their race and gender identities and associations with self‐concept (global and school). Results demonstrated that participants reported a combination of feminine and masculine gender roles, rather than hypermasculine. A canonical correlation analysis found that Black racial identity attitudes (RIAS‐L) and gender roles simultaneously contributed to significant relationships with total and school self‐concept. Study limitations and future directions for research and practice are discussed.
Prevalence and extent of enamel defects in the permanent teeth of 8‐year‐old Nigerian children
Authors: Ibiyemi Olushola , Zohoori Fatemeh V. , Valentine Ruth A. , Kometa Simon , Maguire Anne
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Enamel formation is a vulnerable developmental process, susceptible to environmental influences such as excessive systemic fluoride (F) exposure and infant/childhood disease. This study determined prevalence and extent of developmental enamel defects (DDE) and dental fluorosis in 8‐year‐old Nigerians and explored associations with key predictors.

Methods

A sample of 322 healthy 8‐year‐olds (155 males, 167 females) from primary schools in lower and higher water F areas of (i) rural and (ii) urban parts of Oyo State in south‐west Nigeria (n = 4 areas) (in which the mean (SD) F concentration of community water supplies ranged from 0.07 (0.02) to 2.13 (0.64) mg F/L) were dentally examined using modified DDE (mDDE) and Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF) indices. Drinking waters, cooking waters and toothpaste samples were analysed for F concentration using a F ion‐selective electrode (F‐ISE). Information on infant/childhood diseases, infant feeding and tooth cleaning practices was obtained from parents/legal guardians. Data were analysed using ANOVA, chi‐square tests, Spearman correlation and binary logistic regression as appropriate.

Results

Mean (SD) F concentration of actual drinking and actual cooking waters consumed by participants was 0.25 (0.20) and 0.24 (0.14) mg F/L respectively in the urban higher F area; 1.11 (1.00) and 1.16 (1.02) mg F/L, respectively in the rural higher F area (P < .05). Overall, mouth prevalence of DDE in the permanent dentition was 61.2% with a mean (SD) of 2.4 (2.2) index teeth affected. Dental fluorosis mouth prevalence was 29.8% with a mean of 2.1 (3.7) teeth affected. Prevalence and extent of DDE and dental fluorosis were greater in higher F than lower water F areas (P < .001). A weak positive correlation was seen between extent of dental fluorosis and drinking water F concentration (ρ = 0.28). The absence of infant/childhood disease was associated with a lower risk of DDE being present (P = .001), with an odds ratio of 0.43 (95% CI = 0.26, 0.71). Gender was a statistically significant (P = .014) predictor for dental fluorosis with females having a higher risk OR 1.94 (95% CI = 1.14, 3.28) of dental fluorosis than males.

Conclusions

In these Nigerian 8‐year‐olds (n = 322), mouth prevalence of DDE was 61.2% (mean (SD) teeth affected = 2.4 (2.2)), and a key positive predictor was a history of infant/childhood disease. With 29.8% of these children exhibiting dental fluorosis (mean (SD) teeth affected = 2.1(3.7)), drinking water F concentration was identified as a positive predictor, along with gender, with females more at risk of dental fluorosis than males.
DC-SIGN reacts with TLR-4 and regulates inflammatory cytokine expression via NF-κB activation in renal tubular epithelial cells during acute renal injury
Authors: Feng D , Wang Y , Liu Y , Wu L , Li X , Chen Y , Chen Y , Chen Y , Xu C , Yang K , Zhou T
Published: September 2017

In the pathological process of acute kidney injury (AKI), innate immune receptors are essential in inflammatory response modulation; however, the precise molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Our study sought to demonstrate the inflammatory response mechanisms in renal tubular epithelial cells via Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) and dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing non-integrin 1 (DC-SIGN) signalling. We found that DC-SIGN exhibited strong expression in renal tubular epithelial cells of human acute renal injury tissues. DC-SIGN protein expression was increased significantly when renal tubular epithelial cells were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for a short period. Furthermore, DC-SIGN was involved in the activation of p65 by TLR-4, which excluded p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK). Interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α expression was decreased after DC-SIGN knock-down, and LPS induced endogenous interactions and plasma membrane co-expression between TLR-4 and DC-SIGN. These results show that DC-SIGN and TLR-4 interactions regulate inflammatory responses in renal tubular epithelial cells and participate in AKI pathogenesis.
Is Behçet's disease a ‘class 1-opathy’? The role of HLA-B*51 in the pathogenesis of Behçet's disease
Authors: Giza M , Koftori D , Chen L , Bowness P
Published: September 2017

The association between carriage of the human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-B*51 allele and development of Behçet's disease (BD) has been known since the early 1970s, but the exact mechanisms responsible for its role in pathogenesis remain much-debated. In an effort to explain the disease process, it has been suggested that BD constitutes one of a newly termed group of diseases, the ‘MHC-I-opathies’. Other MHC-I-opathies include ankylosing spondylitis and HLA-B*27-associated spondyloarthropathies and HLA-C*0602-associated skin psoriasis. Recent work analysing the peptidome of HLA-B*51 suggests that altered peptide presentation by HLA-B*51 is vital to the disease process. In this review, we argue that immune receptor interactions with HLA-B*51 or the HLA-B*51-peptide complex could lead to development of inflammation in BD. The evidence for CD8+ T cell involvement is weak, and based on emerging studies it seems more likely that natural killer (NK) or other cell interactions, perhaps mediated by leucocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor (LILR) or killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) receptors, are culpable in pathogenesis. HLA misfolding leading directly to inflammation is another hypothesis for BD pathogenesis that deserves greater investigation. Ultimately, greater understanding of HLA-B*51's unique role in BD will probably lead to improved development of therapeutic strategies.
Design and methodology of the Shanghai child and adolescent large‐scale eye study (SCALE)
Authors: He Xiangui , Zhao Rong , Sankaridurg Padmaja , Zhu Jianfeng , Naduvilath Thomas , Ma Yingyan , Lu Lina , Lv Minzhi , Smith Earl L , Resnikoff Serge , Naidoo Kovin , Zou Haidong , Xu Xun
Published: September 2017

Importance

Nearly half of children suffering vision impairment reside in China with myopia accounting for the vast majority.

Background

To describe the design and methodology of the Shanghai Child and Adolescent Large‐scale Eye Study (SCALE).

Design

The SCALE was a city wide, school‐based, prospective survey.

Participants

Children and adolescents aged 4–14 years from kindergarten (middle and senior), primary schools and junior high schools of all 17 districts and counties of the city of Shanghai, China were examined in 2012–2013.

Methods

Each enrolled child underwent vision assessment (distance visual acuity; uncorrected and with corrective device if worn) and their parent/carer completed a questionnaire designed to elicit risk factors associated with myopia. Additionally, non‐cycloplegic autorefraction and ocular axial length was measured in a subset of the larger sample.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence and the associated factors of vision impairment, myopia and high myopia in Shanghai.

Results

In 2012–2013, a total of 910 245 of the eligible 1 196 763 children and adolescents identified from census (76%, mean age 9.0 ± 2.7 years [4–14 years]) were enrolled with visual acuity screened in the city of Shanghai. Of these, 610 952 children (67% of the entire sample) underwent non‐cycloplegic autorefraction and 219 188 (24% of the entire sample) had both non‐cycloplegic autorefraction and axial length measurements.

Conclusions and Relevance

The study results will provide insights on the burden of vision impairment, myopia and high myopia in children and adolescents in a metropolitan area of China, and contribute to the policies and strategies to address and limit the burden.
Using audio playback to expand the geographic breeding range of an endangered species
Authors: Anich Nicholas M. , Ward Michael P.
Published: September 2017

Aim

Species conservation typically involves working within the existing geographic range of that species. However, with habitat loss and climate change, conservationists may need to extend their work beyond the current range of a species. We attempted to extend the geographic breeding range of a rare species, Kirtland's warbler (Setophaga kirtlandii), by 225 km from the closest known breeding pairs and 550 km from its core population.

Location

Wisconsin, USA.

Methods

We broadcast conspecific song playbacks at two sites in landscapes that were far from source populations but had a history of intermittent occupancy. We also estimated the potential effect that additional use of this technique in Wisconsin could have on the global Kirtland's warbler population.

Results

The sites were initially unoccupied, but over the course of three years, playback attracted individuals to sites where they successfully reproduced. In the final year of the study, at least seven males and four females occupied the sites, producing 15 young. Based on the amount of appropriate habitat (5‐ to 15‐year‐old jack [Pinus banksiana] and red pine [P. resinosa]) in Wisconsin, we estimated that a population of approximately 250 pairs of Kirtland's warblers (10% of the global population) could eventually be supported.

Main conclusion

Although conspecific playback has often been reported to work over short distances, our success here demonstrates the potential for effectiveness over much greater distances, even in species with a small global population. This highlights that conspecific playback can be a powerful tool to assist recovery of endangered species, particularly in migratory species with a restricted distribution and high dispersal capabilities. As climate changes and humans alter the landscape, it may become crucial to attempt to establish populations beyond a species' current geographic range.
Life in harsh environments: carabid and spider trait types and functional diversity on a debris‐covered glacier and along its foreland
Authors: GOBBI MAURO , BALLARIN FRANCESCO , BRAMBILLA MATTIA , COMPOSTELLA CHIARA , ISAIA MARCO , LOSAPIO GIANALBERTO , MAFFIOLETTI CHIARA , SEPPI ROBERTO , TAMPUCCI DUCCIO , CACCIANIGA MARCO
Published: September 2017

1. Patterns of species richness and species assemblage composition of ground‐dwelling arthropods in primary successions along glacier forelands are traditionally described using a taxonomic approach. On the other hand, the functional trait approach could ensure a better characterisation of their colonisation strategies in these types of habitat.

2. The functional trait approach was applied to investigate patterns of functional diversity and life‐history traits of ground beetles and spiders on an alpine debris‐covered glacier and along its forefield in order to describe their colonisation strategies.

3. Ground beetles and spiders were sampled at different successional stages, representing five stages of deglaciation.

4. The results show that the studied glacier hosts ground beetle and spider assemblages that are mainly characterised by the following traits: walking colonisers, ground hunters and small‐sized species. These traits are typical of species living in cold, wet, and gravelly habitats. The diversity of functional traits in spiders increased along the succession, and in both carabids and spiders, life‐history traits follow the ‘addition and persistence model’. Accordingly, there is no turnover but there is an addition of new traits and a variation in their proportion within each species assemblage along the succession. The distribution of ground beetles and spiders along the glacier foreland and on the glacier seems to be driven by dispersal ability and foraging strategy.

5. The proposed functional approach improves knowledge of the adaptive strategies of ground‐dwelling arthropods colonising glacier surfaces and recently deglaciated terrains, which represent landforms quickly changing due to global warming.
Patterns of parasitism in monarch butterflies during the breeding season in eastern North America
Authors: FLOCKHART D. T. TYLER , DABYDEEN ANJULI , SATTERFIELD DARA A. , HOBSON KEITH A. , WASSENAAR LEONARD I. , NORRIS D. RYAN
Published: September 2017

1. Migratory behaviour can result in reduced prevalence of pathogens in host populations. Two hypotheses have been proposed to explain this relationship: (i) ‘migratory escape’, where migrants benefit from escaping pathogen accumulation in contaminated environments; and (ii) ‘migratory culling’, where the selective removal of infected individuals occurs during migration.

2. In the host–parasite system between the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus Linn.) and its obligate protozoan parasite Ophryocystis elektroscirrha (OE), there is evidence to support both hypotheses, particularly during the monarchs' autumn migration. However, these processes can operate simultaneously and could vary throughout the monarchs' annual migratory cycle. Assessing the relative strength for each hypothesis has not previously been done.

3. To evaluate both hypotheses, parasite infection prevalence was examined in monarchs sampled in eastern North America during April–September, and stable isotopes (δ2H, δ13C) were used to estimate natal origin and infer migration distance. There was stronger support for the migratory escape hypothesis, wherein infection prevalence increased over the breeding season and was higher at southern latitudes, where the breeding season tends to be longer compared with northern latitudes. Little support was found for the migratory culling hypothesis, as infection prevalence was similar whether monarchs travelled shorter or longer distances.

4. These results suggest that migration allows individuals to escape parasites not only during the autumn, as shown in previous work, but during the monarchs' spring and summer movements when they recolonise the breeding range. These results imply a potential fitness advantage to monarchs that migrate further north to exploit parasite‐free habitats.
Genetic diversity of the myrtle rust pathogen (Austropuccinia psidii) in the Americas and Hawaii: Global implications for invasive threat assessments
Authors: Stewart J. E. , Ross‐Davis A. L. , Graҫa R. N. , Alfenas A. C. , Peever T. L. , Hanna J. W. , Uchida J. Y. , Hauff R. D. , Kadooka C. Y. , Kim M.‐S. , Cannon P. G. , Namba S. , Simeto S. , Pérez C. A. , Rayamajhi M. B. , Lodge D. J. , Arguedas M. , Medel‐Ortiz R. , López‐Ramirez M. A. , Tennant P. , Glen M. , Machado P. S. , McTaggart A. R. , Carnegie A. J. , Klopfenstein N. B.
Published: September 2017

Since the myrtle rust pathogen (Austropuccinia psidii) was first reported (as Puccinia psidii) in Brazil on guava (Psidium guajava) in 1884, it has been found infecting diverse myrtaceous species. Because A. psidii has recently spread rapidly worldwide with an extensive host range, genetic and genotypic diversities were evaluated within and among A. psidii populations in its putative native range and other areas of myrtle rust emergence in the Americas and Hawaii. Microsatellite markers revealed several unique multilocus genotypes (MLGs), which grouped isolates into nine distinct genetic clusters [C1–C9 comprising C1: from diverse hosts from Costa Rica, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and USA‐Hawaii, and USA‐California; C2: from eucalypts (Eucalyptus spp.) in Brazil/Uruguay and rose apple (Syzygium jambos) in Brazil; C3: from eucalypts in Brazil; C4: from diverse hosts in USA‐Florida; C5: from Java plum (Syzygium cumini) in Brazil; C6: from guava and Brazilian guava (Psidium guineense) in Brazil; C7: from pitanga (Eugenia uniflora) in Brazil; C8: from allspice (Pimenta dioica) in Jamaica and sweet flower (Myrrhinium atropurpureum) in Uruguay; C9: from jabuticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) in Brazil]. The C1 cluster, which included a single MLG infecting diverse host in many geographic regions, and the closely related C4 cluster are considered as a “Pandemic biotype,” associated with myrtle rust emergence in Central America, the Caribbean, USA‐Florida, USA‐Hawaii, Australia, China‐Hainan, New Caledonia, Indonesia and Colombia. Based on 19 bioclimatic variables and documented occurrences of A. psidii contrasted with reduced sets of specific genetic clusters (subnetworks, considered as biotypes), maximum entropy bioclimatic modelling was used to predict geographic locations with suitable climate for A. psidii which are at risk from invasion. The genetic diversity of A. psidii throughout the Americas and Hawaii demonstrates the importance of recognizing biotypes when assessing the invasive threats posed by A. psidii around the globe.
Rapid reduction in BCR‐ABL1 transcript predicts deep molecular response in dasatinib‐treated chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukaemia patients
Authors: Murai Kazunori , Yamaguchi Kohei , Ito Shigeki , Miyagishima Takuto , Shindo Motohiro , Wakasa Kentaro , Inomata Mitsue , Nagashima Takahiro , Kondo Takeshi , Fujimoto Nozomu , Yamamoto Satoshi , Yonezumi Masakatsu , Oyake Tatsuo , Kowata Shugo , Tsukushi Yasuhiko , Mine Takahiro , Meguro Kuniaki , Ikeda Kazuhiko , Watanabe Reiko , Saito Souichi , Sato Shinji , Tajima Katsushi , Chou Takaaki , Kubo Kohmei , Oba Koji , Sakamoto Junichi , Ishida Yoji ,   The Inter‐Michinoku Dasatinib Study Group (IMIDAS)
Published: September 2017

Objectives

We conducted a phase‐II study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dasatinib in patients newly diagnosed with chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML‐CP) in Japan (IMIDAS PART 2 study).

Methods

Seventy‐nine patients were administered 100 mg dasatinib once daily. We examined pretreatment and post‐treatment influences of various factors. The BCR‐ABL1 international scale (IS), halving time (HT) and reduction rate of BCR‐ABL1 transcript within the initial 1 or 3 months of therapy (RR‐BCR‐ABL11m,3m) were the post‐treatment factors investigated to predict the molecular response.

Results

The estimated major molecular response (MMR), molecular response 4.0 (MR4.0) and molecular response 4.5 (MR4.5) rates were 77.2%, 49.4% and 35.4%, respectively, at 12 months. Grade 3/4 non‐haematologic adverse events were infrequent. Multivariate analysis showed that age >65 years was significantly correlated with MR4.0 and MR4.5 (deep molecular response: DMR) at 12 months. All post‐treatment factors at 3 months predicted DMR by univariate analysis. However, RR‐BCR‐ABL13m was the only significant landmark for predicting DMR by multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Primary treatment of CML‐CP with dasatinib enabled early achievement of MMR and DMR, particularly in elderly patients, with high safety. Furthermore, RR‐BCR‐ABL13m was found to be a more useful predictor of DMR than HT‐BCR‐ABL1 and BCR‐ABL1 IS.
Characterization of social cognition impairment in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Neuhaus M. , Bagutti S. , Yaldizli Ö. , Zwahlen D. , Schaub S. , Frey B. , Fischer‐Barnicol B. , Burgunder J.‐M. , Martory M.‐D. , Pöttgen J. , Annoni J.‐M. , Penner I.‐K.
Published: September 2017

Background and purpose

Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been associated with deficits in social cognition. However, little is known about which domains of social cognition are predominantly affected and what other factors are associated with it. The aim was (i) to characterize social cognition deficit in a group of MS outpatients and (ii) to relate impairment in social cognition to overall cognitive status, depression and fatigue.

Methods

Thirty‐five MS patients (mean disease duration 12.9 years, median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 3 and 34 healthy controls (HCs) were examined using the German version of the Geneva Social Cognition Scale to measure different domains of social cognition. Standard neuropsychological testing was applied to all patients and to 20 HCs. Patient‐reported outcomes included questionnaires for fatigue, depression, anxiety and executive‐behavioural disturbances.

Results

The mean social cognition raw score was lower in the MS patients compared to the HCs (86.5 ± 8.7 vs. 91.2 ± 5.9, P = 0.005; d = 0.6) and did not correlate with EDSS or disease duration. The difference was driven by facial affect recognition and the understanding of complex social situations (14% and 23% of patients respectively under the cut‐off). The impairment in these two tasks did not correlate with general cognitive performance or depression but with fatigue.

Conclusions

The impairment in our group was restricted to high order and affective social cognition tasks and independent of general cognitive performance, EDSS, disease duration and depression. Fatigue correlated with social cognition performance, which might be due to common underlying neuronal networks.
Identifying psychogenic seizures through comorbidities and medication history
Authors: Kerr Wesley T. , Janio Emily A. , Braesch Chelsea T. , Le Justine M. , Hori Jessica M. , Patel Akash B. , Gallardo Norma L. , Bauirjan Janar , D'Ambrosio Shannon R. , Chau Andrea M. , Hwang Eric S. , Davis Emily C. , Buchard Albert , Torres‐Barba David , Al Banna Mona , Barritt Sarah E. , Cho Andrew Y. , Engel Jerome , Cohen Mark S. , Stern John M.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Low‐cost evidence‐based tools are needed to facilitate the early identification of patients with possible psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). Prior to accurate diagnosis, patients with PNES do not receive interventions that address the cause of their seizures and therefore incur high medical costs and disability due to an uncontrolled seizure disorder. Both seizures and comorbidities may contribute to this high cost.

Methods

Based on data from 1,365 adult patients with video‐electroencephalography–confirmed diagnoses from a single center, we used logistic and Poisson regression to compare the total number of comorbidities, number of medications, and presence of specific comorbidities in five mutually exclusive groups of diagnoses: epileptic seizures (ES) only, PNES only, mixed PNES and ES, physiologic nonepileptic seizurelike events, and inconclusive monitoring. To determine the diagnostic utility of comorbid diagnoses and medication history to differentiate PNES only from ES only, we used multivariate logistic regression, controlling for sex and age, trained using a retrospective database and validated using a prospective database.

Results

Our model differentiated PNES only from ES only with a prospective accuracy of 78% (95% confidence interval =72–84%) and area under the curve of 79%. With a few exceptions, the number of comorbidities and medications was more predictive than a specific comorbidity. Comorbidities associated with PNES were asthma, chronic pain, and migraines (p < 0.01). Comorbidities associated with ES were diabetes mellitus and nonmetastatic neoplasm (p < 0.01). The population‐level analysis suggested that patients with mixed PNES and ES may be a population distinct from patients with either condition alone.

Significance

An accurate patient‐reported medical history and medication history can be useful when screening for possible PNES. Our prospectively validated and objective score may assist in the interpretation of the medication and medical history in the context of the seizure description and history.
Social function of a variable lateral stripe in Xiphophorus hellerii?
Authors: Hardy Elizabeth J. , Bumm Lloyd A. , Schlupp Ingo
Published: September 2017

In a single population of a livebearing fish, the green swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii), a trait considered a static badge of status in males of other populations, the color of a stripe covering the lateral line, has been found to be dynamic relative to their social environment, potentially rendering this signal meaningless. Males change the color expression of their lateral stripe dynamically based on social environment. We investigated if males (n = 26) respond to visual and chemical information about other males with a color change and aggressive behavior. We found that visual information is indeed causing color change, whereas chemical information is less effective. Aggressive responses and frequency of response did not change significantly with the mode of communication. We also studied female preferences for color, but found no significant preference (n = 32). Our results lead to questions as to how interpopulation variation can affect preferences and how dynamic signaling—in this case signal transmission presumably dependent on sex and/or status—influences the behavioral interactions we might expect between X. hellerii in the field.
Theory, practice, and conservation in the age of genomics: The Galápagos giant tortoise as a case study
Authors: Gaughran Stephen J. , Quinzin Maud C. , Miller Joshua M. , Garrick Ryan C. , Edwards Danielle L. , Russello Michael A. , Poulakakis Nikos , Ciofi Claudio , Beheregaray Luciano B. , Caccone Adalgisa
Published: September 2017

High‐throughput DNA sequencing allows efficient discovery of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in nonmodel species. Population genetic theory predicts that this large number of independent markers should provide detailed insights into population structure, even when only a few individuals are sampled. Still, sampling design can have a strong impact on such inferences. Here, we use simulations and empirical SNP data to investigate the impacts of sampling design on estimating genetic differentiation among populations that represent three species of Galápagos giant tortoises (Chelonoidis spp.). Though microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA analyses have supported the distinctiveness of these species, a recent study called into question how well these markers matched with data from genomic SNPs, thereby questioning decades of studies in nonmodel organisms. Using >20,000 genomewide SNPs from 30 individuals from three Galápagos giant tortoise species, we find distinct structure that matches the relationships described by the traditional genetic markers. Furthermore, we confirm that accurate estimates of genetic differentiation in highly structured natural populations can be obtained using thousands of SNPs and 2–5 individuals, or hundreds of SNPs and 10 individuals, but only if the units of analysis are delineated in a way that is consistent with evolutionary history. We show that the lack of structure in the recent SNP‐based study was likely due to unnatural grouping of individuals and erroneous genotype filtering. Our study demonstrates that genomic data enable patterns of genetic differentiation among populations to be elucidated even with few samples per population, and underscores the importance of sampling design. These results have specific implications for studies of population structure in endangered species and subsequent management decisions.
Proceeding report of the Symposium on Hidradenitis Suppurativa Advances (SHSA)
Authors: Mehdizadeh Ali , Alavi Afsaneh , Alhusayen Raed , Bauer Boris , Bechara Falk G. , Bourcier Marc , Brassard Alain , Djamei Vahid , Dutz Jan , George Ralph , Ghias Mondana , Gooderham Melinda , Hamzavi Iltefat , Hoffman Lauren K. , Hou Angela , Hu Howard , Kimball Alexa B. , Kirchhof Mark , Kryzskaya Darya , Liy Wong Maria del Carmen , Lowes Michelle A. , Lynde Charles W. , McLellen Chelsea , Prens Errol , Prens lisette , Rogalska Tetyana , Sibbald Ronald Gary , Sisic Mia , Tan Marcus G. , Wong Dennis D.
Published: September 2017

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic debilitating skin condition that impairs the productivity and the quality of patients` lives. HS has recently drawn lots of attention among scholars to further expand their knowledge but it still loads with uncertainties and gaps to be explored. This publication addresses these uncertainties, and provides a road‐map for researchers, scholars and clinicians from different disciplines for their future studies about HS. This is a proceeding report of the first Symposium on Hidradenitis Suppurativa Advances (SHSA), and it reviews the scientific sessions about the epidemiology, pathophysiology, presentations, and management of HS. This symposium was a great opportunity for experts in the HS field to exchange their knowledge, and improve their mutual understanding of this disease.
Translating local benthic community structure to national biogenic reef habitat types
Authors: Cresswell Anna K. , Edgar Graham J. , Stuart‐Smith Rick D. , Thomson Russell J. , Barrett Neville S. , Johnson Craig R.
Published: September 2017

Aim

Marine reef habitats are typically defined subjectively. We provide a continental‐scale assessment of dominant reef habitats through analysis of macroalgae and sessile animal taxa at sites distributed around Australia. Relationships between reef habitats and environmental and anthropogenic factors are assessed, and potential changes in the future distribution and persistence of habitats are considered.

Location

Shallow rocky and coral reefs around the Australian coast.

Methods

Cover of 38 sessile biota functional groups was recorded in diver‐based surveys using quadrats at 1,299 sites. Classification analyses based on the functional groups were used to identify an unambiguous set of ‘biogenic habitat types’. Random forest and distance‐based linear modelling were used to investigate correlations between these habitats and environmental and anthropogenic variables.

Results

Cluster analyses revealed tropical and temperate ‘realms’ in benthic substratum composition, each with finer‐scale habitats: four for the temperate realm (canopy algae, barren, epiphytic algae–understorey and turf) and five for the tropical realm (coral, coral–bacterial mat, turf–coral, calcified algae–coral and foliose algae). Habitats were correlated with different sets of environmental and anthropogenic conditions, with key associations in the temperate realm between mean sea temperature and canopy‐forming algae (negative) and barren habitat (positive). Variation in sea temperature was also an important correlate in the tropical realm.

Main conclusions

Quantitative delineation of inshore reef habitats at a continental scale identifies many of the same habitat types traditionally recognized through subjective methods. Importantly, many biogenic reef habitats were closely related to environmental parameters and anthropogenic variables that are predicted to change. Consequently, habitats have differing likelihood of persistence. Structurally complex habitats in the temperate realm are at greater risk than more ‘two‐dimensional’ habitats (e.g., canopy‐forming versus turfing algae). In the tropical realm, offshore and coastal habitats differed greatly, highlighting the importance of large‐scale oceanic conditions in shaping biogenic structure.
Impact and experiences of delayed discharge: A mixed‐studies systematic review
Authors: Rojas‐García Antonio , Turner Simon , Pizzo Elena , Hudson Emma , Thomas James , Raine Rosalind
Published: September 2017

Background

The impact of delayed discharge on patients, health‐care staff and hospital costs has been incompletely characterized.

Aim

To systematically review experiences of delay from the perspectives of patients, health professionals and hospitals, and its impact on patients’ outcomes and costs.

Methods

Four of the main biomedical databases were searched for the period 2000‐2016 (February). Quantitative, qualitative and health economic studies conducted in OECD countries were included.

Results

Thirty‐seven papers reporting data on 35 studies were identified: 10 quantitative, 8 qualitative and 19 exploring costs. Seven of ten quantitative studies were at moderate/low methodological quality; 6 qualitative studies were deemed reliable; and the 19 studies on costs were of moderate quality. Delayed discharge was associated with mortality, infections, depression, reductions in patients’ mobility and their daily activities. The qualitative studies highlighted the pressure to reduce discharge delays on staff stress and interprofessional relationships, with implications for patient care and well‐being. Extra bed‐days could account for up to 30.7% of total costs and cause cancellations of elective operations, treatment delay and repercussions for subsequent services, especially for elderly patients.

Conclusions

The poor quality of the majority of the research means that implications for practice should be cautiously made. However, the results suggest that the adverse effects of delayed discharge are both direct (through increased opportunities for patients to acquire avoidable ill health) and indirect, secondary to the pressures placed on staff. These findings provide impetus to take a more holistic perspective to addressing delayed discharge.
Update on the potential significance of psammoma bodies in lung adenocarcinoma from a modern perspective
Authors: Miyake Akio , Okudela Koji , Matsumura Mai , Hideaki Mitsui , Arai Hiromasa , Umeda Shigeaki , Yamanaka Shoji , Ishikawa Yoshihiro , Tajiri Michihiko , Ohashi Kenichi
Published: September 2017

Aims

Psammoma bodies are concentrically lamellated microscopic structures made of calcium. They are commonly observed in papillary carcinomas of the thyroid gland and serous papillary adenocarcinomas of the ovary, but are also occasionally detected in lung adenocarcinomas. Only one study, published in 1972, has systematically described the significance of psammoma bodies in lung adenocarcinomas. The aim of this study was to update the significance of psammoma bodies in lung adenocarcinomas from a modern perspective.

Methods and results

Psammoma bodies were detected in 7.2% (59/822) of the adenocarcinomas examined, among which the papillary (20.3%, 12/59) and acinar (44.1%, 26/59) histological subtypes, with the feature of a terminal respiratory unit (91.5%, 54/59), were dominant. Malignant potential (cell growth activity measured by Ki67 labelling, lymph node metastasis, and postoperative survival) did not significantly differ between adenocarcinomas with and without psammoma bodies. On the basis of cytogenetic features, adenocarcinomas with psammoma bodies were preferentially affected by tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)‐targetable driver mutations [EGFR (69.8%, 37/53), ALK (13.2%, 7/53), and ROS1 (1.9%, 1/53)]. Multivariate analyses confirmed that psammoma bodies may constitute an independent predictor for these mutations, particularly EGFR and ALK mutations.

Conclusions

Psammoma bodies may predict a favourable response of lung adenocarcinomas to TKIs.
Tooth bleaching with low‐temperature plasma lowers surface roughness and Streptococcus mutans adhesion
Authors: Nam S.‐H. , Ok S.‐M. , Kim G.‐C.
Published: September 2017

Aim

To evaluate the structural–morphological changes in enamel surface roughness and Streptococcus mutans adhesion after tooth bleaching using plasma in combination with a low concentration of 15% carbamide peroxide (CP).

Methodology

Sixty pairs of premolars were randomly assigned to the treatment groups (n = 30; buccal surface, groups 1A/2A) or controls (n = 30; palatal surface, Groups 1B/2B). Group 1A received a low concentration of 15% CP and low‐temperature plasma. Premolars in group 1B were placed in phosphate‐buffered saline and served as controls. The buccal surface of Groups 2A was subjected to 15% CP alone, whilst the palatal surface was subsequently immersed in PBS (group 2B). After bleaching, all teeth were soaked for 1 h in artificial saliva at 37 °C. Subsequently, teeth were placed in brain–heart infusion with S. mutans at 37 °C for 24 h. The assessment of the structural–morphological changes was carried out using a biofilm assay, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Statistical analysis of the data was performed with the SPSS (SPSS Inc., Version 18.0, Chicago, IL, USA). The Student's t‐test was used to determine whether there was a significant difference in the structural–morphological effects with and without plasma.

Results

Significantly less S. mutans adhesion was observed in group 1A compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the surface roughness was significantly greater in group 2A compared with the other groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The application of plasma did not result in any structural–morphological and topographic changes in the enamel. The combined bleaching method using plasma and a low concentration of 15% CP was less destructive, particularly with respect to tooth surface changes.