bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Betel‐quid dependence domains and syndrome associated with betel‐quid ingredients among chewers: anAsian multi‐country evidence
Authors: Lee Chien‐Hung , Chiang Shang‐Lun , Ko Albert Min‐Shan , Hua Chun‐Hung , Tsai Ming‐Hsui , Warnakulasuriya Saman , Ibrahim Salah Osman , Sunarjo  , Zain Rosnah Binti , Ling Tian‐You , Huang Chieh‐Liang , Lane Hsien‐Yuan , Lin Cheng‐Chieh , Ko Ying‐Chin
Published: March 2014

Aims

Betel‐quid (BQ) contains biologically psychoactive ingredients; however, data are limited concerning the symptoms and syndrome ofBQdependence among chewers. The aims of this study were to evaluate the ingredients‐associatedBQdependence syndrome and country‐specific chewing features and behaviour forBQdependence among chewers from sixAsian communities.

Design

An intercountryAsianBetel‐quidConsortium study.

Setting

SixAsian general communities inTaiwan, MainlandChina,Indonesia,Malaysia,SriLanka andNepal.

Participants

Six multi‐stage random samples ofBQchewers in theAsianBetel‐quidConsortium study (n = 2078).

Measurements

All chewers were evaluated forBQdependence using theDSM‐IVandICD‐10 criteria.

Findings

The 12‐monthBQdependence rate was 12.5–92.6% and 47.9–99.3% (P = 0.023) among tobacco‐free and tobacco‐addedBQchewers across the sixAsian communities, with a higher dependence rate in chewers who used tobacco‐freeBQwith lime added than without (23.3–95.6% versus 4.0%,P ≤ 0.001).Taiwanese andHunaneseBQchewers both notably endorsed the dependency domain of ‘time spent chewing’. ‘Tolerance’ and ‘withdrawal’ were the major dependence domains associated with theNepalese and Indonesian chewers, with highBQdependence rates.Malaysian andSriLankan chewers formed aBQdependence cluster linked closely to ‘craving’. InSriLanka, the quantity consumed explained 90.5% (P < 0.001) of the excess dependence risk for tobacco‐added use, and could be a mediator between tobacco‐derived psychoactive effect andBQdependence development.

Conclusions

DSM‐IVcriteria for dependence apply to a significant proportion of betel quid users inAsian communities, more so if they use it with tobacco or lime.
The Cerberus from Warringah: F.A. Bland and the Renaissance of the Public Accounts Committee
Authors: Jones Kate , Jacobs Kerry
Published: March 2014

In 1932 the Lyons UAP government suspended the operations of the Commonwealth parliament's public accounts committee, allegedly as an economy measure. The role of public accounts committees is, in principle, that of a non‐partisan reviewer of the public finances, but in this case the committee had diverged from its charter and become involved in politics and policy. Twenty years later, the Menzies government resurrected the committee. A crucial figure in its re‐establishment was F.A. Bland, variously a professor of public administration, member for Warringah in the House of Representatives, and a significant public intellectual from the 1920s to the 1960s. Today Bland is almost forgotten but the role the re‐established committee played in its early days was largely a reflection of his interests and commitments.
Relationship between supernormal sectors of retinal nerve fibre layer and axial length in normal eyes
Authors: Yamashita Takehiro , Kii Yuya , Tanaka Minoru , Yoshinaga Wakako , Yamashita Toshifumi , Nakao Kumiko , Sakamoto Taiji
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To determine the effect of the axial length on the supernormal and false‐positive sectors of the peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) in healthy eyes using the normative database embedded in a spectral domain optical coherence tomographic (SD‐OCT) instrument.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational cross ‐sectional study. The right eyes of 126 healthy young volunteers were studied. The RNFL thickness was measured by SD‐OCT in twelve 30‐degree sectors (clock hours) around the optic disc. The sectors whose RNFL thickness was <5% probability level were labelled as false‐positive sectors. The sectors >95% probability level were labelled as supernormal sectors. The relationships between the axial length and rates of supernormal and false‐positive sectors were investigated.

Results

A longer axial length was significantly associated with an increase in the rates of supernormal thickness in sector 8 (odds ratio, [OR], 1.494; p = 0.010) and sector 10 (OR, 1.529; p = 0.008). The supernormal sectors were mainly located in the temporal region. A longer axial length was significantly associated with a higher rates of false positives in sector 5 (OR, 1.789; p = 0.017), sector 6 (OR, 2.305; p < 0.001) and sector 12 (OR, 2.277; p = 0.035).

Conclusions

The axial length was significantly related to the rates of supernormal and false‐positive sectors even in healthy eyes. These findings indicate that the specificity and sensitivity of SD‐OCT will be affected especially in eyes with longer axial lengths.
When should we use partially hydrolysed formulae for frequent gastrointestinal symptoms and allergy prevention?
Authors: Vandenplas Y , Cruchet S , Faure C , Lee HC , Di Lorenzo C , Staiano A , Chundi Xu , Aw MM , Gutiérrez‐Castrellón P , Asery A , Spolidoro J , Heine RG , Miqdady M , Arancibia ME , Alarcón P
Published: March 2014

Experts reviewed the literature to determine whether partially whey hydrolysed formulas (HF) offer benefits in the dietary management of frequent gastrointestinal symptoms and allergy prevention. Compared with standard cow's milk‐based formulas, partially whey HF confer a limited protective effect against allergic disease in high‐risk infants, particularly atopic dermatitis, but not respiratory allergies. No randomised clinical trials have been published on partially whey HF in infants with colicky symptoms. The group did not find sufficient evidence to support the use of partially whey HF in regurgitation, although recent data suggest that a thickened partially whey HF may be more effective. Partially whey HF, fortified with prebiotics and/or probiotics, with high levels of sn‐2 palmitate in the fat blend or without palm oil, provide some benefit in functional constipation.

Conclusion

Overall, partially whey HF may offer a useful alternative to intact protein in the dietary management of common functional gastrointestinal symptoms.
Multiple intravenous doses of paracetamol result in a predictable pharmacokinetic profile in very preterm infants
Authors: van Ganzewinkel C , Derijks L , Anand KJS , van Lingen RA , Neef C , Kramer BW , Andriessen P
Published: March 2014

Aim

The therapeutic options available to treat neonatal pain are limited, and one alternative for nonopioid systemic treatment is paracetamol. However, pharmacokinetic data from prolonged administration of intravenous paracetamol in neonates are limited. The aim of this study was to present pharmacokinetics after multiple dose of intravenous paracetamol in very preterm infants of <32 weeks' gestation.

Methods

Fifteen very preterm infants received five, six‐hourly doses of intravenous paracetamol (7.5 mg/kg). Blood samples were taken to measure paracetamol, glutathione and hepatic function, together with urine samples for paracetamol metabolites.

Results

A two‐compartment pharmacokinetic model gave the best fit for all individual patients and resulted in a predictable pharmacokinetic profile. The estimated pharmacokinetic population parameters were volume of distribution 0.764 ± 0.225 L/kg, elimination rate constant (ke) 0.117 ± 0.091/h and intercompartment rate constants k12 0.607 ± 0.734/h and k21 1.105 ± 0.762/h.

Conclusion

Our study found that multiple doses of intravenous paracetamol resulted in a predictable pharmacokinetic profile in very preterm infants. Increases in postmenstrual age and weight were associated with increased clearance. No evidence of hepatotoxicity was found.
Rapid Assessment to Identify and Quantify the Risk of Intimate Partner Violence During Pregnancy
Authors: Bianchi Ann L. , McFarlane Judith , Nava Angeles , Gilroy Heidi , Maddoux John , Cesario Sandra
Published: March 2014

Background

Abuse during pregnancy is common and affects upwards of one in six pregnant women worldwide. The objective of this study is to describe the demographics, frequency, and severity of abuse, and the risk of murder for women who report abuse during pregnancy compared with women who do not report abuse.

Methods

A total of 300 women seeking assistance for partner abuse were recruited to participate in a 7‐year prospective study. Of the 300 women, 50 reported they had been pregnant within the last 4 months; 25 of the women (50%) reported they were “beaten” during the pregnancy; and 25 women (50%) reported they had not been “beaten.” Analysis was completed on differential severity for abuse and risk for murder between the two groups.

Results

Women reporting abuse during pregnancy had statistically significant (p < 0.001) higher scores for Threat of abuse, F(1, 49) = 14.37, p < 0.001; Physical abuse, F(1, 49) = 21.21, p < 0.001; and Danger for murder weighted F(1, 49) = 22.99, p < 0.001. All effects sizes were large.

Conclusion

Women abused during pregnancy are at greater risk for further abuse and in severe danger for murder. To ensure the safety of pregnant women, screening policies are essential.
Management of Occiput Posterior Position in the Second Stage of Labor: A Survey of Midwifery Practice in Australia
Authors: Phipps Hala , de Vries Brad , Jagadish Ujvala , Hyett Jon
Published: March 2014

Background

The management of the occiput posterior (OP) position has been controversial for many years. Manual rotation can be performed by midwives and could reduce cesarean sections and instrumental births. We aimed to determine current midwifery views, knowledge, and practice of manual rotation.

Method

A de‐identified, self‐reported questionnaire was e‐mailed to all Australian College of Midwives full members (n = 3,997).

Results

Of 3,182 surveyed, 57 percent (1,817) responded, of whom 51 percent (920) were currently practicing midwifery. Seventy‐seven percent of midwives thought that manual rotation at full dilatation was a valid intervention. Sixty‐four percent stated the procedure was acceptable before instrumental delivery, but 30 percent were unsure. Most practicing midwives (93%) had heard of manual rotation, but only 18 percent had performed one in the last year. Midwives would support the routine performance of manual rotation for OP position if it reduced operative births from 68 to 50 percent and would support manual rotation for occiput transverse (OT) position if it reduced operative births from 39 to 25 percent.

Conclusion

This study indicates that manual rotation is considered acceptable by most midwives in Australia, yet is only performed by a minority. Midwives would be willing to perform prophylactic manual rotation if it was known to facilitate normal vaginal births suggesting a scope to introduce this procedure into widespread clinical practice.
Influence of Counseling Sessions on the Prevalence of Breastfeeding in the First Year of Life: A Randomized Clinical Trial with Adolescent Mothers and Grandmothers
Authors: Bica Olga Claudino , Giugliani Elsa Regina Justo
Published: March 2014

Background

Adolescent mothers living with their mothers may be at greater risk of early weaning. This study aims to assess the influence of a breastfeeding promotion strategy directed at adolescent mothers living with their mothers on the prevalence of breastfeeding in the first year of life.

Method

A randomized clinical trial with 323 adolescent mothers. Participants were divided into two groups: those who lived with their mothers and those who did not. Participants were randomly assigned to control or intervention groups. Intervention consisted of breastfeeding counseling sessions held at the maternity ward and at home (at 7, 15, 30, 60, and 120 days postpartum). The intervention effect was assessed by comparing survival curves for breastfeeding in the first 12 months of life.

Results

The risk of weaning before 12 months of age was significantly lower in the intervention group for adolescent mothers not living with their mothers; whereas the risk was not statistically different between intervention and control groups for those living with their mothers.

Conclusions

The positive influence of systematic counseling sessions on the prevalence of breastfeeding in the first year of life was significant for adolescent mothers. Living with their mothers reduced such influence.
PI3Kγ integrates cAMP and Akt signalling of the μ‐opioid receptor
Authors: Madishetti Sreedhar , Schneble Nadine , König Christian , Hirsch Emilio , Schulz Stefan , Müller Jörg P , Wetzker Reinhard
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose

The μ‐opioid receptor has been characterized as the main mediator of opioid signalling in neuronal cells. Opioid‐induced pain suppression was originally proposed to be mediated by μ‐opioid receptor‐induced inhibitory effects on cAMP, which is known to mediate inflammatory hypernociception. Recent investigations revealed PI3Kγ and Akt (PKB) as additional elements of μ‐opioid receptor signalling. Hence, we investigated the interaction between pronociceptive cAMP and antinociceptive PI3K/Akt signalling pathways.

Experimental Approach

The human neuroblastoma cell line SK‐N‐LO and primary dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cells from mice were used to elucidate mediators of μ‐opioid receptor signalling. In both cellular systems cAMP was manipulated by stimulation of adenylate cyclase and consequent effects on PI3K/Akt signalling were analysed.

Key Results

Morphine stimulated Akt phosphorylation on Ser473 and Thr308 in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner indicating a functional μ‐opioid receptor/Akt signalling pathway in μ‐SK‐N‐LO cells. This effect of morphine was suppressed by the μ‐opioid receptor inhibitor, naloxone, Pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of Gi heterotrimeric G‐proteins, and the pan PI3K inhibitor wortmannin. cAMP‐elevating agents also suppressed μ‐opioid receptor‐dependent stimulation of PI3Kγ lipid kinase and Akt activities in SK‐N‐LO cells and DRG.

Conclusions and Implications

The data unveil a hitherto unknown interaction of pronociceptive cAMP and antinociceptive PI3K/Akt signalling pathways in neuronal cells. PI3Kγ was identified as a mediator of the inhibitory action of cAMP on Akt in SK‐N‐LO cells and DRG. The data indicate that PI3Kγ has a critical role in cAMP‐mediated inflammatory hypernociception and analgesic signalling via μ‐opioid receptors and PI3K/Akt in neuronal cells.
Antidepressant and anxiolytic profiles of newly synthesized arginine vasopressin V1B receptor antagonists: TASP0233278 and TASP0390325
Authors: Iijima M , Yoshimizu T , Shimazaki T , Tokugawa K , Fukumoto K , Kurosu S , Kuwada T , Sekiguchi Y , Chaki S
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose

Vasopressin V1B receptor antagonists may be effective for the treatment of depression and anxiety and the objective of this study was to characterize the pharmacological profiles of two newly synthesized arginine vasopressin receptor 1B (V1B receptor) antagonists, TASP0233278 and TASP0390325.

Experimental Approach

We investigated the in vitro profiles of TASP0233278 and TASP0390325. In addition, the effect of TASP0390325 on the increase in plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels induced by corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF)/desmopressin (dDAVP) was investigated. We also investigated the antidepressant and anxiolytic profiles of TASP0233278 and TASP0390325 in animal models.

Key Results

Both TASP0233278 and TASP0390325 showed a high affinity and potent antagonist activity for V1B receptors. Oral administration of TASP0390325 antagonized the increase in plasma ACTH levels induced by CRF/dDAVP in rats, indicating that TASP0390325 blocks the anterior pituitary V1B receptor in vivo. Oral administration of TASP0233278 or TASP0390325 also exerted antidepressant effects in two models of depression (a forced swimming test and an olfactory bulbectomy model). Moreover, TASP0233278 improved depressive‐like behaviour induced by repeated treatment with corticosterone, a model that has been shown to be resistant to treatment with currently prescribed antidepressants. In addition to depression models, TASP0233278 or TASP0390325 exerted anxiolytic effects in several anxiety models (social interaction, elevated plus‐maze, stress‐induced hyperthermia, separation‐induced ultrasonic vocalization and sodium lactate‐induced panic‐like responses in panic‐prone rats).

Conclusion

TASP0233278 and TASP0390325 are potent and orally active V1B receptor antagonists with antidepressant and anxiolytic activities in rodents.
Cognitive development in children with new onset epilepsy
Authors: Rathouz Paul J , Zhao Qianqian , Jones Jana E , Jackson Daren C , Hsu David A , Stafstrom Carl E , Seidenberg Michael , Hermann Bruce P
Published: March 2014

Aim

To characterize the prospective trajectory of cognitive development in children with new or recent onset epilepsy from baseline to 5 to 6 years after diagnosis.

Method

Sixty‐nine children (40 males, 29 females; age 8–18y), with new or recent onset epilepsies underwent neuropsychological assessment shortly after diagnosis (Wave 1), 2 years (Wave 2), and 5 to 6 years after diagnosis (Wave 3). Intelligence, academic achievement, language, executive function, and psychomotor speed were evaluated. Sixty‐two children (28 males, 34 females; age 8–18) with typical development served as a comparison group at each time point. The cognitive data were examined by syndrome (localization‐related epilepsy [LRE]; idiopathic generalized epilepsy [IGE]; comparison group). Mixed effect regression models compared trajectories among groups with respect to time since diagnosis.

Results

Cognitive abnormalities exhibited by children with epilepsy in arithmetic computation, response inhibition, attention, fine motor dexterity, and psychomotor speed (all p values <0.001), are detectable at or near the time of diagnosis and largely remain stable over the ensuing 5 to 6 years without evidence of progressive worsening or recovery. This course is evident across both LRE and IGE groups, with the LRE group performing better for some outcomes (arithmetic, response inhibition, psychomotor speed) and never worse than the IGE group.

Interpretation

Cognitive development in children with LRE and IGE is not characterized by progressive deterioration or lack of age‐appropriate development; rather, development lags behind that of children with typical development. Cognitive abnormalities, when detected, are present near the time of diagnosis, persist over time, and require early intervention.
Substantial reductions in the number of diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycaemia episodes requiring emergency treatment lead to reduced costs after structured education in adults with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Elliott J. , Jacques R. M. , Kruger J. , Campbell M. J. , Amiel S. A. , Mansell P. , Speight J. , Brennan A. , Heller S. R.
Published: March 2014

Aims

To determine the impact of structured education promoting flexible intensive insulin therapy on rates of diabetic ketoacidosis, and the costs associated with emergency treatment for severe hypoglycaemia and ketoacidosis in adults with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Using the Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating research database we compared the rates of ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycaemia during the 12 months preceding Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating training with the rates during the 12‐month follow‐up after this training. Emergency treatment costs were calculated for associated paramedic assistance, Accident and Emergency department attendance and hospital admissions.

Results

Complete baseline and 1‐year data were available for 939/1651 participants (57%). The risk of ketoacidosis in the 12 months after Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating training, compared with that before training, was 0.39 (95% CI: 0.23 to 0.65, P < 0.001), reduced from 0.07 to 0.03 episodes/patient/year. For every 1 mmol/mol unit increase in HbA1c concentration, the risk of a ketoacidosis episode increased by 6% (95% CI: 5 to 7%; 88% for a 1% increase), and for each 5‐year increase in diabetes duration, the relative risk reduced by 20% (95% CI: 19 to 22%). The number of emergency treatments decreased for ketoacidosis (P < 0.001), and also for severe hypoglycaemia, including paramedic assistance (P < 0.001), Accident and Emergency department attendance (P = 0.029) and hospital admission (P = 0.001). In the study cohort, the combined cost of emergency treatment for ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycaemia fell by 64%, from £119,470 to £42,948.

Conclusions

Structured training in flexible intensive insulin therapy is associated with a 61% reduction in the risk of ketoacidosis and with 64% lower emergency treatment costs for ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycaemia.
Use of hospital admissions data to quantify the burden of emergency admissions in people with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Gibbons D. C. , Soljak M. A. , Millett C. , Valabhji J. , Majeed A.
Published: March 2014

Aims

Accurate measurement of emergency diabetes admissions is essential for healthcare delivery and research. This study examines whether current approaches to identifying diabetes‐related admissions may underestimate the true burden on hospital care.

Methods

Data spanning the period 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2010 inclusive were extracted from Hospital Episode Statistics data for England. Emergency admissions citing diabetes (E10, E11, E13 or E14) in any diagnosis position in adults (≥ 17 years) were included. E10 and E11 were considered analogous to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus respectively; E13 and E14 were grouped as ‘other or unspecified’ diabetes mellitus. For admissions citing diabetes multiple times, those with concordant citations were classified as appropriate; discordant citations were assigned to the ‘other or unspecified’ group. Frequencies of diabetes classifications and complications for each diagnosis position and frequencies of all International Classification of Diseases 10th revision codes for the primary diagnosis field were calculated.

Results

In total, 2 443 046 admissions were identified. Diabetes was cited as the primary diagnosis in 6.2% and most commonly cited as the third diagnosis (23.1%). Type 2 diabetes mellitus was the most common (85.0%). The majority of diabetes citations were ‘without complication’ (2 188 965, 89.6%). The most common primary diagnosis was ‘chest pain, unspecified’ (R07.4, 99 678, 4.1%).

Conclusions

Reliance on the primary diagnosis field to identify emergency admissions in people with diabetes grossly underestimates the true burden placed on hospital care and leads to underestimates of effect sizes in studies utilizing admission rates as outcome measures. An alternative strategy to identify such admissions is required.
Accessory Tricuspid Valve Leaflet and an Anomalous Muscle Bundle in the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract in a Patient with Double‐Outlet Right Ventricle: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Nabati Maryam , Dabirian Mozhdeh , Bagheri Babak , Ghaemian Ali , Shokri Mojtaba
Published: March 2014

Double‐outlet right ventricle (DORV), a clinically important congenital heart disease, occurs in 1–3% of persons with congenital heart disease. It may occur as an isolated cardiac defect, together with other cardiac lesions, or in association with extracardiac anomalies. Other rare cardiac anomalies include an anomalous muscle bundle (AMB) in the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) and an accessory tricuspid valve leaflet. We report a very rare case of concomitant DORV, AMB in the RVOT and accessory tricuspid valve leaflet in a 17‐year‐old male patient. The patient eventually died from severe decompensated heart failure. To the best of our knowledge, such a case has not been previously reported in the literature.
Disturbance from pond management obscures local and regional drivers of assemblages of primary producers
Authors: Gallego Irene , Davidson Thomas A. , Jeppesen Erik , Pérez‐Martínez Carmen , Fuentes‐Rodríguez Francisca , Juan Melchor , Casas J. Jesús
Published: March 2014

Ponds have significant conservation value due to their potentially high contribution to local and regional diversity. However, most ponds are located in anthropogenically influenced areas, and their biodiversity is constantly threatened by human activities. Thus, knowledge of the effect of pond management on biodiversity is essential for designing effective conservation strategies.

Here, we study the main drivers of diversity of three functional groups of primary producers (phytoplankton, filamentous green algae and submerged macrophytes) in 87 ponds distributed across a large region (c. 90000 km2) in Southern Spain. We hypothesised that spatial effects would increase with increasing propagule size. However, given the regional extent of the study, we anticipated that both spatial and environmental controls would be significant.

We determined α‐, β‐ and γ‐components of biodiversity for each functional group and pond type (embankment ponds, excavated ponds and artificial ponds) and assessed the influence of environmental and spatial drivers on diversity with generalised additive models (GAMs). Redundancy analyses (RDAs) with variation partitioning were used to determine the relative contribution of environmental and spatial predictors of the community assembly. Spatial variables were calculated by applying distance‐based Moran's eigenvector maps (db‐MEM).

Both α‐ and β‐diversities of phytoplankton and filamentous green algae varied significantly with pond type. Generally, environmental predictors of diversity were more important than spatial variables. Assemblage structure was controlled by water chemistry and eutrophication, with a marked influence of pond type. Spatial variables included broad‐scale variation for the three groups of primary producers, which were also strongly influenced by the management regime.

Limited management activities, as occurs at embankment ponds, promoted the local richness of phytoplankton and contributed importantly to the regional diversity of macrophytes. Moreover, the relative contribution of environmental and spatial variables was similar between embankment ponds and natural ecosystems, that is, dispersal limitation increasing with propagule size. Excavated and artificial ponds also contributed importantly to regional diversity by enhancing phytoplankton and filamentous green algal β‐diversity. However, spatial patterns in the latter pond type did not meet our expectations, most likely due to the intensive disturbance from pond management hampering the development of macrophytes.
Eutrophication decreases distance decay of similarity in diatom communities
Authors: Goldenberg Vilar Alejandra , van Dam Herman , van Loon Emiel E. , Vonk J. Arie , van Der Geest Harm G. , Admiraal Wim
Published: March 2014

The distance–decay relationship has been claimed to be a predictor for biological diversity because it unites several ecological phenomena such as dispersal ability and environmental structure. The effect of long‐term disturbances on distance decay, however, has been widely overlooked, especially for microorganisms.

We examine the effect of eutrophication on the distance–decay relationship in communities of attached diatoms in three peatland areas: mesotrophic, eutrophic and hypertrophic. The study follows a spatially explicit sampling scheme, collecting evenly spaced samples along 6‐km sampling tracks.

The three areas shared 24% of the total number of species, but the different nutrient levels in the three areas are reflected by the prominence of low profile and planktonic diatom species.

Our study demonstrates that eutrophication can affect distance–decay relationships by decreasing turnover rates in microorganisms. Diatom communities are shown to be constrained by both environmental and spatial features, whose relative importance depends on the degree of eutrophication. Under eutrophic conditions, species are filtered from the regional species pool and community structure responds strongly to environmental factors (water chemistry variables and depth), while in mesotrophic environments, purely spatial processes play a prominent role in structuring diatom communities. These findings reveal that homogenisation of communities triggered by environmental disturbance is an ecological phenomenon of importance in the microbial world.
Educational program in Japan for Dementia Support Doctors who support medical and care systems as liaisons for demented older adults in the community
Authors: Washimi Yukihiko , Horibe Kentaro , Takeda Akinori , Abe Takashi , Toba Kenji
Published: March 2014

Now that the number of elderly people has increased and the number of dementia patients is rapidly increasing, dementia might be regarded as a common disease. Under these circumstances, the establishment of systems to support the elderly with dementia from the early stages, and to provide primary care doctors and care workers with necessary education is an urgent issue. Up to the end of 2012, a total of 2680 doctors had been certified as Dementia Support Doctors (DSD). The DSD's function and roles are: (i) to support primary care doctors and care specialists involved in the medical care, and general care of dementia patients; (ii) to facilitate multidisciplinary cooperation led by a Community General Support Center; and (iii) to give lectures about dementia to primary care doctors and educate people in the community. DSD are more skilled than primary care doctors in the following functions: differential diagnosis; outpatient services to deal with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia; community liaison; and home care. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14 (Suppl. 2): 11–16.
Unclassified cases of behavioral variant of major frontotemporal neurocognitive disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition
Authors: Fukuda Koji , Hattori Hideyuki
Published: March 2014

Aim

In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM‐5), the behavioral variant of major frontotemporal neurocognitive disorder (bvFT‐NCD) is subclassified into “probable bvFT‐NCD” or “possible bvFT‐NCD.” When genetic evidence is unavailable, cases without clinical neuroimaging are subclassified into “possible bvFT‐NCD,” whereas cases whose clinical images show the typical characteristics are subclassified into “probable bvFT‐NCD.” Thus, the cases that meet the diagnostic criteria of bvFT‐NCD based on their symptoms, but lack the neuroimaging characteristics, fall between the two categories of probable and possible bvFT‐NCD. These cases herein are defined as “unclassified bvFT‐NCD,” and the present study aims at considering an appropriate diagnostic approach to such cases, that is, whether unclassified bvFT‐NCD should be included in bvFT‐NCD as a third subcategory, or whether it should be classified into diseases other than bvFT‐NCD.

Methods

All patients who presented at the Department of Psychiatry of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology with suspicion of the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia between 1 May 2011 and 30 April 2013 were retrospectively rediagnosed based on the DSM‐5 criteria.

Results

A total of 16 cases met the criteria of bvFT‐NCD, and among them, eight cases corresponded to unclassified bvFT‐NCD. From a cross‐sectional and clinical perspective, all eight cases of unclassified bvFT‐NCD fulfilled the symptomatic criteria for bvFT‐NCD, although the possibilities of Alzheimer's disease and other mental disorders could not be ruled out completely.

Conclusions

To establish clinical diagnostic criteria for unclassified bvFT‐NCD, accumulation of cases and evidence will be required along with longitudinal observation using various diagnostic technologies and post‐mortem examination. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14 (Suppl. 2): 35–44.
Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is associated with cerebral white matter lesions (leukoaraiosis) in elderly patients without ischemic heart disease and stroke
Authors: Shimizu Atsuya , Sakurai Takashi , Mitsui Toko , Miyagi Motohiro , Nomoto Kenichiro , Kokubo Manabu , Bando Yasuko K , Murohara Toyoaki , Toba Kenji
Published: March 2014

Aim

Cerebral white matter lesions (WML) are known to increase with age, as is left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction with normal contraction. Although aging is a common risk factor, the link between these diseases is not fully understood. The aim was to clarify this relationship, using the ratio between early diastolic mitral inflow and early diastolic mitral annular tissue velocity (E/E'). E/E' measured by tissue Doppler echocardiography offers an indicator of the severity of LV diastolic dysfunction, reflecting both diastolic LV stiffness and diastolic LV filling pressure.

Methods

Participants comprised 75 patients aged between 65 and 75 years with normal LV contraction and no signs or history of symptomatic heart failure, ischemic heart diseases, atrial fibrillation, stroke, or cognitive dysfunction. The volume of WML was quantified on brain magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

The participants were classified into three groups: Low E/E', E/E' ≤ 8; Middle E/E', 8 < E/E' < 15; and High E/E', E/E' ≥ 15. WML volume was 3.6 ± 3.0 mL in Low E/E', 5.4 ± 6.5 mL in Middle E/E' and 12.0 ± 11.0 mL in High E/E', increasing significantly with increased diastolic LV stiffness (Low vs High, P = 0.034; Middle vs High, P = 0.016). Linear regression analysis showed the positive association between the volume of WML and E/E' ratio (r = 0.377, P = 0.0009).

Conclusions

This investigation identified an association between LV diastolic dysfunction and WML. Further investigations are required to clarify whether there is a direct association between the two diseases. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14 (Suppl. 2): 71–76.
Developing an interdisciplinary program of educational support for early‐stage dementia patients and their family members: An investigation based on learning needs and attitude changes
Authors: Seike Aya , Sumigaki Chieko , Takeda Akinori , Endo Hidetoshi , Sakurai Takashi , Toba Kenji
Published: March 2014

Aim

The National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology has begun to provide educational support for family caregivers through interdisciplinary programs focusing on patients in the early stage of dementia. These interdisciplinary programs have established two domains for the purpose of “educational support”: cure domains (medical care, medication) and care domains (nursing care, welfare). In the present study, we examined the learning needs and post‐learning attitude changes of patients and their families who participated in these programs in order to assess the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary program of educational support in each of these domains.

Methods

A total of 170 participants (51 dementia patients, 119 family members) were included in the study. Data were obtained from electronic health records, and through a written survey administered before and immediately after each program.

Results

A high percentage of patients and family members desired knowledge about the progression and symptoms of dementia, as well as measures to prevent progression, both of which fall under the medical care content. For patients, education in the medical care content increased their motivation to live. For families, education in the medical and nursing care contents promoted their understanding of dementia, while education in medication and welfare contents improved their skills for handling dementia patients and their symptoms.

Conclusion

Both patients and family members expressed a need to learn medical care content, including the progression and disease symptoms of dementia, and methods to prevent the progression of dementia symptoms. Their responses showed that learning medical care was effective for understanding dementia. We suggested that medical care content was the core of interdisciplinary educational support for early‐stage dementia patients and their family members. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14 (Suppl. 2): 28–34.
Teaching and practical guidelines in pulp therapy in primary teeth in Colombia – South America
Authors: Hincapié Sandra , Fuks Anna , Mora Ingrid , Bautista Gloria , Socarras Fernanda
Published: March 2014

Objective

To describe the teaching practical guidelines in pulp therapy for primary teeth in Colombian dental schools, based on Primosch et al. survey (1997).

Methods

A 27‐question survey was sent to 31 dental schools. A total of 68 surveys were obtained for analysis of the results, in which pediatric dentists answered 48 surveys, 11 surveys by general practitioners, and 9 were answered but were not identified in any of these groups.

Results

Indirect pulp treatment (IPT) is taught by pediatric dentists (83%) and general practitioners (90%). Calcium hydroxide and glass ionomer were the preferred materials in this treatment. Pulpotomy is the most commonly procedure used. There was no different percentage in the use of medicaments: cresatin, glutaraldehyde, calcium hydroxide, formocresol. Pulpectomy is taught by general practitioners (73%) and pediatric dentists (96%). The preferred filler material, used by general practitioners (73%) and pediatric dentists (94%), was zinc oxide and eugenol.

Conclusions

There is a discrepancy in the choice of treatment and medications for pulp therapy primary teeth between general practitioners and pediatric dentists. The recommendations given in American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) guidelines 2012 for pulp therapy in primary and young permanent teeth are being followed in the majority instances.
The Beta Anomaly in the Japanese Equity Market and Investor Behavior
Authors: Iwasawa Seiichiro , Uchiyama Tomonori
Published: March 2014

It is well known that high‐beta stocks are associated with a low alpha relative to the capital asset pricing model and to the Fama–French three‐factor model. We show that the beta anomaly in the Japanese market is attributable to foreign institutional investors, not domestic individuals. Foreigners overweight high‐beta stocks; the anomaly weakens or reverses when their investment increases and strengthens when it decreases; and they invest more in high‐beta than low‐beta stocks when increasing investment and sell high‐beta more than low‐beta stocks when reducing it. We do not find analogous results for individual investors. Our results suggest that the beta anomaly reflects a preference for high‐beta securities by institutional investors aiming to beat a benchmark.
Is Japan Different? Evidence on Momentum and Market Dynamics
Authors: Hanauer Matthias
Published: March 2014

Recent evidence for the US indicates that momentum profits are conditional on market dynamics. This paper documents that the following finding holds for the Japanese market as well: momentum returns are significantly higher when the market stays in the same condition than when it transitions to the other state. This evidence is consistent with the behavioral model of Daniel et al. (1998, Journal of Finance 53(6), 1839–1885.). Furthermore, market transitions occurred more frequently in Japan compared to the US. These results explain why average momentum returns have historically been low in Japan, a fact generally referred to as an empirical failure of momentum. Overall, my findings indicate that different market dynamics, and not different momentum, cause the overall low momentum returns in Japan.
Barriers to sexual expression in residential aged care facilities (RACFs): comparison of staff and residents' views
Authors: Villar Feliciano , Celdrán Montserrat , Fabà Josep , Serrat Rodrigo
Published: March 2014

Aim

To explore and compare the views of both staff and residents about barriers to sexual expression in residential aged care facilities.

Background

Although remaining sexually active in older age helps to preserve and promote well‐being, the percentage of sexually active persons living in residential aged care facilities is low. Previous research has identified several barriers to sexual expression in such settings. Most of this research has focused on staff perceptions, neglecting the residents' perspective.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Fifty‐three staff members and 47 older people living in five residential aged care facilities were interviewed. They were asked about barriers to sexual expression in residential settings. Data were analysed using content analysis, aimed at identifying common ideas in the responses. Data were collected over 7 months in 2012.

Results

About 40% of the residents subsample did not identify any barrier to sexual expression, although all other participants identified at least one. The most oft‐cited barriers were lack of privacy, residents' attitudes and lack of communication about sexuality.

Conclusion

A substantial number of residents were unable to identify or mention barriers to sexual expression. Generational factors and group pressure could affect residents' attitudes towards sexuality.
TAP1 I333V gene polymorphism and type 1 diabetes mellitus: a meta‐analysis of 2248 cases
Authors: Li Yan‐Yan , Gao Wei , Pang Si‐Si , Min Xiao‐Yan , Yang Zhi‐Jian , Wang Hui , Lu Xin‐Zheng , Wang Lian‐Sheng , Wang Xiang‐Ming , Qian Yun , Zhou Chuan‐Wei , Wu Jun , Chen Ai‐Ling
Published: March 2014

Transporter associated with antigen processing 1 (TAP1) I333V gene polymorphism has been suggested to be associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) susceptibility. However, the results from individual studies are inconsistent. To explore the association of TAP1 I333V gene polymorphisms with T1DM, a meta‐analysis involving 2246 cases from 13 individual studies was conducted. The pooled odd ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were evaluated by a fixed‐effect model. A significant relationship was observed between TAP1 I333V gene polymorphism and T1DM in allelic (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.08–1.68, P = 0.007), dominant (OR: 1.462, 95% CI: 1.094–1.955, P = 0.010), homozygous (OR: 1.725, 95% CI: 1.082–2.752, P = 0.022), heterozygous (OR: 1.430, 95% CI: 1.048–1.951, P = 0.024) and additive (OR: 1.348, 95% CI: 1.084–1.676, P = 0.007) genetic models. No significant association between TAP1 I333V gene polymorphism and T1DM was detected in a recessive genetic model (OR: 1.384, 95% CI: 0.743–2.579, P = 0.306) in the entire population, especially among Caucasians. No significant association between them was found in an Asian or African population. TAP1 I333V gene polymorphism was significantly associated with increased T1DM risk. V allele carriers might be predisposed to T1DM susceptibility.
Standard metabolism and growth dynamics of laboratory‐reared larvae of Sardina pilchardus
Authors: Moyano M. , Garrido S. , Teodósio M. A. , Peck M. A.
Published: March 2014

This study provides the first measurements of the standard respiration rate (RS) and growth dynamics of European sardine Sardina pilchardus larvae reared in the laboratory. At 15° C, the relationship between RS (µl O2 individual−1 h−1) and larval dry mass (MD, µg) was equal to: RS = 0·0057(±0·0007, ± s.e.)·MD0·8835(±0·0268), (8–11% MD day−1). Interindividual differences in RS were not related to interindividual differences in growth rate or somatic (Fulton's condition factor) or biochemical‐based condition (RNA:DNA).
Temporal variation and characterization of grunt sounds produced by Atlantic codGadus morhuaand pollackPollachius pollachiusduring the spawning season
Authors: Wilson L. J. , Burrows M. T. , Hastie G. D. , Wilson B.
Published: March 2014

Fine‐scale temporal patterning in grunt production and variation in grunt attributes in Atlantic codGadus morhuaand pollackPollachius pollachiuswas examined.Pollachius pollachiusproduced only a single sound type, the grunt, similar to that previously described forG. morhua. Sound production and egg production were correlated inP. pollachiusbut not inG. morhua. OnlyG. morhuadisplayed a strongly cyclical pattern, producing more grunts at night. Finer‐scale temporal patterning in grunt production was observed in both species which produced significantly fewer grunts following a period of high grunt production. These quieter periods lasted up to 45 min forP. pollachiusand up to 1 h inG. morhua. Grunts were not always produced in isolation but organized into bouts in both species. Longer bouts were more frequent during periods of increased sound activity and were linked with changes in grunt characteristics including increased grunt duration, pulse duration and repetition period of each pulse combined with decreased dominant frequency. This study provides the first evidence of acoustic signalling being used by spawningP. pollachiusand presents the most detailed analysis of the complexity of gadoid sound production.
Integrated Telehealth Care for Chronic Illness and Depression in Geriatric Home Care Patients: The Integrated Telehealth Education and Activation of Mood (I‐TEAM) Study
Authors: Gellis Zvi D. , Kenaley Bonnie L. , Have Thomas Ten
Published: March 2014

Objectives

To evaluate an integrated telehealth intervention (Integrated Telehealth Education and Activation of Mood (I‐TEAM)) to improve chronic illness (congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and comorbid depression in the home healthcare setting.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Hospital‐affiliated home healthcare setting.

Participants

Medically frail older homebound individuals (N = 102).

Intervention

The 3‐month intervention consisted of integrated telehealth chronic illness and depression care, with a telehealth nurse conducting daily telemonitoring of symptoms, body weight, and medication use; providing eight weekly sessions of problem‐solving treatment for depression; and providing for communication with participants' primary care physicians, who also prescribed antidepressants. Control participants were allocated to usual care with in‐home nursing plus psychoeducation (UC+P).

Measurements

The two groups were compared at baseline and 3 and 6 months after baseline on clinical measures (depression, health, problem‐solving) and 12 months after baseline on health utilization (readmission, episodes of care, and emergency department (ED) visits).

Results

Depression scores were 50% lower in the I‐TEAM group than in the UC+P group at 3 and 6 months. Those who received the I‐TEAM intervention significantly improved their problem‐solving skills and self‐efficacy in managing their medical condition. The I‐TEAM group had significantly fewer ED visits (P = .01) but did not have significantly fewer days in the hospital at 12 months after baseline.

Conclusion

Integrated telehealth care for older adults with chronic illness and comorbid depression can reduce symptoms and postdischarge ED use in home health settings.