bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of postoperative mortality with the time of day, week and year
Authors: Kork F. , Spies C. , Conrad T. , Weiss B. , Roenneberg T. , Wernecke K.‐D. , Balzer F.
Published: February 2018

Studies that have investigated circadian, weekday and seasonal variation in postoperative mortality have been relatively small or have been for scheduled surgery. We retrospectively tested a large mixed surgical cohort from a German tertiary care university hospital for the presence of cyclical variation in all‐cause in‐hospital mortality after operations performed between 2006 and 2013. We analysed mortality rates after 247,475 operations, adjusted for age, sex, comorbidities, location, urgency and duration of the surgery, and intra‐operative blood transfusions. The mortality odds ratio (95%CI) after operations started in the morning (08:00–11:00) were lowest, 0.73 (0.66–0.80), p < 0.001 and highest for operations started in the afternoon (13:00–17:00), 1.29 (1.18–1.40), p < 0.001. Mortality at the weekend was the same as during the week. There was no seasonal variation in mortality, p = 0.12. However, the interference of four‐yearly and ten‐monthly cycle amplitudes resulted in higher mortality odds ratio (95%CI) in winter 2008–2009, 1.41 (1.18–1.69), p < 0.001, and lower mortality in spring 2011 and 2012, 0.70 (0.56–0.85) and 0.67 (0.53–0.85), p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively. The ability to predict cyclical phenomena would facilitate the design of interventional studies, aimed at reducing mortality following surgery in the afternoon and when cycles interfere constructively.
High‐quality human and rat spermatozoal RNA isolation for functional genomic studies
Authors: Bianchi E. , Stermer A. , Boekelheide K. , Sigman M. , Hall S. J. , Reyes G. , Dere E. , Hwang K.
Published: February 2018

Sperm RNA is a sensitive monitoring endpoint for male reproductive toxicants, and a potential biomarker to assess male infertility and sperm quality. However, isolation of sperm RNA is a challenging procedure due to the heterogeneous population of cells present in the ejaculate, the low yield of RNA per spermatozoon, and the absence of 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA subunits. The unique biology of spermatozoa has created some uncertainty in the field about RNA isolation methods, indicating the need for rigorous quality control checks to ensure reproducibility of data generated from sperm RNA. Therefore, we developed a reliable and effective protocol for RNA isolation from rat and human spermatozoa that delivers highly purified and intact RNA, verified using RNA‐specific electrophoretic chips and molecular biology approaches such as RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis. The sperm RNA isolation technique was optimized using rat spermatozoa and then adapted to human spermatozoa. Three steps in the sperm isolation procedure, epididymal fluid collection, sperm purification, and spermatozoon RNA extraction, were evaluated and assessed. The sperm RNA extraction methodology consists of collection of rat epididymal fluid with repeated needle punctures of the epididymis, somatic cell elimination using detergent‐based somatic cell lysis buffer (SCLB) and the use of RNA isolation Kit. Rat sperm heads are more resistant to disruption than human spermatozoa, necessitating the addition of mechanical lysis with microbeads and heat in the rat protocol, whereas the human sperm protocol only required lysis buffer. In conclusion, this methodology results in reliable and consistent isolation of high‐quality sperm RNA. Using this technique will aid in translation of data collected from animal models, and reproducibility of clinical assessment of male factor fertility using RNA molecular biomarkers.
Early and middle Holocene ecosystem changes at the Western Carpathian/Pannonian border driven by climate and Neolithic impact
Authors: Šolcová Anna , Petr Libor , Hájková Petra , Petřík Jan , Tóth Peter , Rohovec Jan , BáTORA JOZEF , Horsák Michal
Published: February 2018

Travertine deposits are unique archives for multidisciplinary studies of past climate changes, associated vegetation development and the evolution of human societies. Despite their high potential in palaeoecological and palaeoclimate reconstructions, investigations of travertines are rather scarce in central Europe and particularly in Slovakia. Therefore, this study focused on a travertine deposit situated on the border between the Pannonian Basin and the Western Carpathians in a small valley in Santovka village (SW Slovakia), which is unique due to the presence of archaeological artefacts with known radiocarbon ages in the palaeoecological profile. Using a multidisciplinary approach combining macrofossil, pollen, mollusc, lithological and geochemical analyses, this study investigated climate–human–vegetation interactions. The Holocene onset was marked by the early arrival of oak trees; however, forest‐steppe with a high representation of pine predominated until 9880 cal. a BP, followed by an expansion of temperate trees. The local ecosystem changed around 8600 cal. a BP when the valley was probably dammed by a travertine accumulation, probably resulting in the existence of a small travertine lake. This was associated with wetter climatic conditions, which were also documented in other sites in the Western Carpathians at that time. Surrounding temperate forest possibly retained a certain degree of openness, or local steppe habitat may have persisted on adjacent loess terraces until the neolithization of the area. Archaeological evidence represented by a ceramic shard dated to 7339 cal. a BP suggests the first appearance of humans at the site, yet pollen analysis records a significant change in vegetation first at 6650 cal. a BP. The local ecosystem records an abrupt change linked with human settlement earlier, at c. 7000 cal. a BP. Deforestation activities of the Neolithics resulted in the formation of an open calcareous fen occupied by numerous light‐demanding mollusc species. The present study provides new important data about the spread of temperate trees at the onset of the Holocene, about further vegetation changes caused by activities of the first Neolithic farmers and about climate changes in the region of southwestern Slovakia.
Comparing forest structure and biodiversity on private and public land: secondary tropical dry forests in Costa Rica
Authors: McClellan Moana , Montgomery Rebecca , Nelson Kristen , Becknell Justin
Published: February 2018

Secondary forests constitute a substantial proportion of tropical forestlands. These forests occur on both public and private lands and different underlying environmental variables and management regimes may affect post‐abandonment successional processes and resultant forest structure and biodiversity. We examined whether differences in ownership led to differences in forest structure, tree diversity, and tree species composition across a gradient of soil fertility and forest age. We collected soil samples and surveyed all trees in 82 public and 66 private 0.1‐ha forest plots arrayed across forest age and soil gradients in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. We found that soil fertility appeared to drive the spatial structure of public vs. private ownership; public conservation lands appeared to be non‐randomly located on areas of lower soil fertility. On private lands, areas of crops/pasture appeared to be non‐randomly located on higher soil fertility areas while forests occupied areas of lower soil fertility. We found that forest structure and tree species diversity did not differ significantly between public and private ownership. However, public and private forests differed in tree species composition: 11 percent were more prevalent in public forest and 7 percent were more prevalent in private forest.Swietenia macrophylla,Cedrela odorata,andAstronium graveolenswere more prevalent in public forests likely because public forests provide stronger protection for these highly prized timber species.Guazuma ulmifoliawas the most abundant tree in private forests likely because this species is widely consumed and dispersed by cattle. Furthermore, some compositional differences appear to result from soil fertility differences due to non‐random placement of public and private land holdings with respect to soil fertility. Land ownership creates a distinctive species composition signature that is likely the result of differences in soil fertility and management between the ownership types. Both biophysical and social variables should be considered to advance understanding of tropical secondary forest structure and biodiversity.
A theory on the role of wholesalers in international trade based on economies of scope
Authors: Akerman Anders
Published: February 2018

This paper offers a theoretical foundation for the existence of wholesalers and other intermediaries in international trade and analyzes their role in an economy with heterogeneous manufacturing firms and fixed costs of exporting. Wholesalers are assumed to possess a technology such that they can buy manufacturing goods domestically and sell in foreign markets and they can, unlike manufacturers, export more than one good. A wholesaler therefore faces an additional fixed cost, which increases in the number of goods it handles. The presence of wholesale firms leads to productivity sorting. The most productive firms export on their own by paying a fixed cost, but a range of firms with intermediate productivity levels export through international wholesalers. A higher fixed cost of exporting to a destination means that wholesalers handle: (i) a higher share of total export volumes to this destination and (ii) a higher share of the exported product scope (i.e., the number of exported products) to this destination. A higher fixed cost of exporting gives wholesalers a larger role, since these can spread the fixed cost across more than one good. The wholesale technology therefore exhibits economies of scope. An empirical analysis using Swedish firm‐level data supports the main assumption and predictions of the model.
Epicrestal and subcrestal placement of platform‐switched implants: 18 month‐result of a randomized, controlled, split‐mouth, prospective clinical trial
Authors: Froum Stuart J. , Cho Sang‐Choon , Suzuki Takanori , Yu Paul , Corby Patricia , Khouly Ismael
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the changes in marginal bone levels (MBL) and soft tissue dimension around platform‐switched implants with the implant–abutment junction (IAJ) placed at the crest or 1.5–2 mm subcrestally.

Materials and methods

In all, 96 platform‐switched implants were placed in either the posterior maxilla or mandible in 48 partially edentulous patients in a split‐mouth study. All implants were provisionally restored after 4–5 months and definitively after 6 months (T6). Radiographic assessment of MBL was assessed at implant placement (T0), T6, 12 months (T12), and 18 months (T18) after placement. Mid‐buccal soft tissue and papilla measurements were performed at T6, T12, and T18.

Results

In all, 43 patients with 86 implants completed the study. The T18 examination showed an implant survival rate of 100% in both groups. Analysis showed that MBL varied as a function of IAJ location, which indicated more coronal bone levels with subcrestal (2.39 ± 0.08 mm) than with epicrestal placements (0.88 ± 0.08 mm) (p < .05). Greater average marginal bone loss was found in the subcrestal group (0.40 ± 0.07 mm) compared to the epicrestal group (0.13 ± 0.08 mm) although no statistically significant difference was found at T18 (p > .05). Levels of mid‐buccal soft tissue had no significant changes over time, regardless of group (p > .05). There was a significant difference in increase in papilla between T6 and T12 and T18 (p = .005 and .001), but not between T12 and T18 (p = .61). These papilla levels and changes were similar between groups (p > .05).

Conclusions

The MBL changes around platform‐switched implants with same geometry were not affected by the epicrestal or subcrestal location of the IAJ. Furthermore, the location of the IAJ did not affect the implant survival and soft tissue dimensions. However, no bone loss was located apical to the IAJ when the implants were placed subcrestally.
Cost shifting and other perverse incentives in biodiversity offsetting in India
Authors: Narain Divya , Maron Martine
Published: February 2018

Biodiversity offsetting aims to compensate for development‐induced biodiversity loss through commensurate conservation gains and is gaining traction among governments and businesses. However, cost shifting (i.e., diversion of offset funds to other conservation programs) and other perverse incentives can undermine the effectiveness of biodiversity offsetting. Additionality—the requirement that biodiversity offsets result in conservation outcomes that would not have been achieved otherwise—is fundamental to biodiversity offsetting. Cost shifting and violation of additionality can go hand in hand. India's national offsetting program is a case in point. Recent legislation allows the diversion of offset funds to meet the country's preexisting commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). With such diversions, no additional conservation takes place and development impacts remain uncompensated. Temporary additionality cannot be conceded in light of paucity of funds for preexisting commitments unless there is open acknowledgement that fulfillment of such commitments is contingent on offset funds. Two other examples of perverse incentives related to offsetting in India are the touting of inherently neutral offsetting outcomes as conservation gains, a tactic that breeds false complacency and results in reduced incentive for additional conservation efforts, and the clearing of native vegetation for commercial plantations in the name of compensatory afforestation, a practice that leads to biodiversity decline. The risks accompanying cost shifting and other perverse incentives, if not preempted and addressed, will result in net loss of forest cover in India. We recommend accurate baselines, transparent accounting, and open reporting of offset outcomes to ensure biodiversity offsetting achieves adequate and additional compensation for impacts of development.
Asthma among adult patients presenting with dyspnea to the emergency department: An observational study
Authors: Kuan Win Sen , Craig Simon , Kelly Anne‐Maree , Keijzers Gerben , Klim Sharon , Graham Colin A , Jones Peter , Holdgate Anna , Lawoko Charles , Laribi Said
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Shortness of breath is a common presenting symptom to the emergency department (ED) that can arise from a myriad of possible diagnoses. Asthma is one of the major causes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the demographic features, clinical characteristics, management and outcomes of adults with an ED diagnosis of asthma who presented to an ED in the Asia Pacific region with a principal symptom of dyspnea.

Methods

Planned sub‐study of patients with an ED diagnosis of asthma identified in the Asia, Australia and New Zealand Dyspnoea in Emergency Departments (AANZDEM) study. AANZDEM was a prospective cohort study conducted in 46 EDs in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia over three 72 hour periods in May, August and October 2014. Primary outcomes were patient epidemiology, clinical features, treatment and outcomes (hospital length of stay (LOS) and mortality).

Results

Of the 3044 patients with dyspnea, 387 (12.7%) patients had an ED diagnosis of asthma. The median age was 45 years, 60.1% were female, 16.1% were active or recent smokers and 30.4% arrived by ambulance. Inhaled bronchodilator therapy was initiated in 88.1% of patients, and 66.9% received both inhaled bronchodilators and systemic corticosteroids. After treatment in the ED, 65.4% were discharged. No death was reported.

Conclusion

Asthma is common among patients presenting with a principal symptom of dyspnea in the ED of the Asia Pacific region. There was a suboptimal adherence to international guidelines on investigations and treatments of acute asthma exacerbations presenting an opportunity to improve the efficiency of care.
Reference values for respiratory impedance measured by the forced oscillation technique in adult men and women
Authors: Ribeiro Fernando Carlos Vetromille , Lopes Agnaldo José , Melo Pedro Lopes de
Published: February 2018

Introduction

The forced oscillation technique (FOT) is a particularly useful test of the mechanical properties of the respiratory system that has an increasingly important role in lung function laboratories. There is general agreement in the literature that the determination of reference values is of utmost importance in the clinical use of the FOT.

Objective

Our aim was to present reference values for whole‐breath FOT measurements, establish which anthropometric variables were more predictive of impedance parameters, and provide all the details to adequately adopt these reference equations in individual laboratories.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated a randomly selected non‐smoking sample of the adult Brazilian population (288 subjects, 144 males and 144 females aged 20‐86 years). The volunteers were separated by sex and divided into six groups based on decade of age. Sex‐specific linear prediction equations were developed by multiple regression analysis using age, body mass and height as explanatory variables.

Results

Age introduced a slight, but significant, reduction of resistance in men (P < .001) and women (P < .001). In general, significantly higher values of resistance were observed in females (P < .0001). Among the anthropometric variables analyzed, height was the best predictor for all parameters studied.

Conclusion

This study provides an original frame of reference for the FOT in Brazilian males and females aged 20‐86 years. Height was the best predictor of respiratory impedance parameters. Details contributing to an adequate adoption of these reference equations elsewhere by transference and verification are also provided.
Projecting potential future shifts in species composition of European urban plant communities
Authors: Lososová Zdeňka , Tichý Lubomír , Divíšek Jan , Čeplová Natálie , Danihelka Jiří , Dřevojan Pavel , Fajmon Karel , Kalníková Veronika , Kalusová Veronika , Novák Pavel , Řehořek Vladimír , Wirth Tamás , Chytrý Milan
Published: February 2018

Aim

Urban floras are composed of species of different origin, both native and alien, and with various traits and niches. It is likely that these species will respond to the ongoing climate change in different ways, resulting in future species compositions with no analogues in current European cities. Our goal was to estimate potential shifts in plant species composition in European cities under different scenarios of climate change for the 21st century.

Location

Europe.

Methods

Potential changes in the distribution of 375 species currently growing in 60 large cities in Southern, Central and Western Europe were modelled using generalized linear models and four climate change projections for two future periods (2041–2060 and 2061–2080). These projections were based on two global climate models (CCSM4 and MIROC‐ESM) and two Representative Concentration Pathways (2.6 and 8.5).

Results

Results were similar across all climate projections, suggesting that the composition of urban plant communities will change considerably due to future climate change. However, even under the most severe climate change scenario, native and alien species will respond to climate change similarly. Many currently established species will decline and others, especially annuals currently restricted to Southern Europe, will spread to northern cities. In contrast, perennial herbs, woody plants and most species with temperate continental and oceanic distribution ranges will make up a smaller proportion of future European urban plant communities in comparison with the present communities.

Main conclusions

The projected 21st century climate change will lead to considerable changes in the species composition of urban floras. These changes will affect the structure and functioning of urban plant communities.
Precious young adults born late‐preterm: how much follow‐up is enough?
Authors: Nelson Michael N
Published: February 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Heinonen et al. on pages 267–274 of this issue.
Stiripentol efficacy and safety in Dravet syndrome: a 12‐year observational study
Authors: Myers Kenneth A , Lightfoot Paul , Patil Shekhar G , Cross J Helen , Scheffer Ingrid E
Published: February 2018

Aim

To assess long‐term safety and efficacy of stiripentol as an antiepileptic medication for people with Dravet syndrome.

Method

A prospective, observational open‐label study (2003–2015) of the efficacy and long‐term safety of stiripentol in patients with Dravet syndrome and ongoing seizures. Frequency of generalized tonic‐clonic seizures, focal seizures, status epilepticus, and adverse events were recorded.

Results

Forty‐one patients started stiripentol, with median age at enrolment 5 years 7 months (range 11mo–22y) and median duration of treatment 37 months (range 2–141mo). Twenty out of 41 patients had greater than or equal to 50% long‐term reduction in frequency of generalized tonic‐clonic seizures. Frequency of focal seizures was decreased by greater than or equal to 50% in 11 out of 23 patients over the long‐term. Frequency of status epilepticus was decreased by 50% or more in 11 out of 26 patients. The most common adverse events were anorexia, weight loss, sedation, and behavioural changes. One patient had worsening of absence and myoclonic seizures. Another developed recurrent pancreatitis on concurrent valproate.

Interpretation

Stiripentol improves long‐term seizure frequency in approximately 50% of patients with Dravet syndrome, when used as part of unrestricted polytherapy. Long‐term use appears safe. In more than 40% of patients, episodes of status epilepticus markedly decrease after stiripentol initiation.

What this paper adds

Frequency of status epilepticus is reduced in 40% of patients with Dravet syndrome after stiripentol initiation.

Stiripentol is effective for generalized tonic‐clonic and focal seizures.

Stiripentol can be safely used with a range of antiepileptic drugs.
The Influence of Product Design Practices on New Service Development: Analysis of Selected Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Sayar Deniz , Er Özlem
Published: February 2018

This article investigates the influence of product design practices on new service development processes of manufacturers that are moving toward service provision using a multiple case study conducted with four companies. Technological developments, a competitive business environment, and diverse customer demands have forced manufacturing firms to pursue growth strategies through new service development. On the other hand, studies on design, particularly the interplay between product design and new service development processes, in this shift are scant. This is significant because a manufacturer's transition from only selling products toward delivering services requires the simultaneous management of practices that reflect their histories of product design and processes that comprise service design and development. As a result of the analysis, three themes emerged regarding the influence of product design practices on new service development within the context of manufacturing: (1) accumulation of product design expertise, (2) increased customer loyalty through high‐quality products, and (3) design problems as tools for fostering innovation culture. Each theme is thoroughly discussed with examples from the case study companies. Consequently, this article highlights the interplay between product and service design processes and provides insights on how established product design practices would assist a manufacturer in service provision.
Intrahousehold empowerment gaps in agriculture and children's well‐being in Bangladesh
Authors: Malapit Hazel Jean L. , Sraboni Esha , Quisumbing Agnes R. , Ahmed Akhter U.
Published: February 2018

This article examines the relationship between empowerment gaps between spouses and children's nutritional status and education using nationally representative data from the 2012 Bangladesh Integrated Household Survey. We measure relative empowerment of spouses using the recently developed Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index. We find that while gender gaps in empowerment are only linked weakly to children's nutritional status, fathers’ and mothers’ empowerment have different effects on investment in children. Fathers’ empowerment is positively associated with younger children's nutrition and schooling, while mothers’ empowerment is more important for girls’ education in general and in keeping older boys and girls in school.
White matter spongiosis with vigabatrin therapy for infantile spasms
Authors: Pearl Phillip L. , Poduri Annapurna , Prabhu Sanjay P. , Harini Chellamani , Goldstein Richard , Atkinson Richard M. , Armstrong Dawna , Kinney Hannah
Published: February 2018

The histopathology, “white matter spongiosis,” defined by electron microscopy (EM) as “intramyelinic edema,” has been associated with vigabatrin therapy in various animal models, but its role or significance in clinical studies is unknown. We conducted a neuropathological examination on a 27‐month‐old boy with bilateral polymicrogyria and epilepsy after sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). The patient was initiated on vigabatrin at 4 months of age, which controlled infantile spasms, and was continued as maintenance therapy. Autopsy showed a combination of developmental and acquired lesions: (1) bilateral gyral malformations of the frontal, parietal, temporal, and insular cortex; (2) agenesis of the olfactory tracts and bulbs; (3) hippocampal abnormalities: dentate gyrus bilamination and granule cell dispersion; and (4) areas of microscopic bilateral, symmetric white matter spongiosis in the brainstem central tegmental tract, amiculum and hilum of the inferior olive, medial longitudinal fasciculus, paragigantocellularis lateralis, optic nerves and chiasm, and hypothalamus. The white matter spongiosis was identical to the histopathologic lesions (which by EM exhibited intramyelinic edema) that were demonstrated in animal models on vigabatrin therapy, indicating that vigabatrin toxicity is not restricted to animal models.
Representation in multilateral democracy: How to represent individuals in the EU while guaranteeing the mutual recognition of peoples
Authors: Scherz Antoinette
Published: February 2018

The democratic criteria for representation in the European Union are complex since its representation involves several delegation mechanisms and institutions. This paper develops institutional design principles for the representation of peoples and individuals and suggests reform options of the European Union on the basis of the theory of multilateral democracy. In particular, it addresses how the equality of individuals can be realised in EU representation while guaranteeing the mutual recognition of peoples. Unlike strict intergovernmental institutions, the EU requires an additional and independent legislative chamber in which individuals are directly represented. However, strict equality of individuals cannot be the guiding principle for this chamber. In order to avoid the overruling of peoples through supranational majorities, it is necessary to bind the chamber's composition by a principle of degressive proportionality. The representation of peoples, on the other hand, needs to be connected to their domestic democratic institutions.
Couples' Perceptions of Each Other's Daily Affect: Empathic Accuracy, Assumed Similarity, and Indirect Accuracy
Authors: Kouros Chrystyna D. , Papp Lauren M.
Published: February 2018

This study examined couples' perceptions of each other's daily affect, using a daily diary methodology. Specifically, we tested the extent to which couples accurately inferred how their partner was feeling (empathic accuracy) and the extent to which spouses used their own feelings as a gauge for how their partner was feeling (assumed similarity). We also tested for indirect accuracy in couples' perceptions; that is, that assumed similarity in the context of actual similarity leads to empathic accuracy. Participants were 51 couples who completed daily diaries for seven consecutive nights. Results based on the Actor‐Partner Interdependence Model indicated that couples showed both empathic accuracy and assumed similarity in their perception of their partner's positive affect; however, they used assumed similarity in rating their partner's hard negative (anger, hostility) and soft negative (sadness, fear) affect. Furthermore, tests of indirect accuracy found that wives were indirectly accurate in perceiving their husbands' positive affect and both husbands and wives were indirectly accurate in perceiving each other's hard negative affect because they were biased. Complementing laboratory studies, the present study highlights that examining couples' perceptions of each other's feelings in contexts of daily life, and differentiating positive and negative emotions, can further our understanding of the role of emotions for healthy relationship functioning.
Making information skills meaningful: a case study from occupational therapy
Authors: Spring Hannah
Published: February 2018

The effective delivery of information literacy training can be a challenging process, and health library and information professionals are constantly innovating in this area. This article presents a case study of the BHSc (Hons) Occupational therapy degree programme at York St John University to demonstrate ways in which deep integration of information skills into the curriculum can be achieved. The article advises that in the delivery of health and social care related information skills, we should look more broadly at where relevant learning can happen. In particular, contexts of the health care environment are suggested as a consideration rather than the narrow scope of the academic, classroom‐based environment. Examples are provided of specific teaching and learning activities used on the programme alongside CPD activity and curriculum design.
Health Libraries Group Conference 2018
Authors: Grant Maria J.
Published: February 2018

It's conference time again! There is an exciting programme in prospect in this year's biennial Health Libraries Group (#HLG2018) conference covering key elements of library and information workers’ daily practice. Uppermost in everyone's mind is the importance of ongoing personal and professional development with the Health Libraries Group Continuing Professional Development Panel putting this into practice as they host regional peer support sessions for presenters in the period leading up to the conference. As the official journal of the Health Libraries Group, the Health Information and Libraries Journal is similarly keen to support presenters in the practical task of translating their presentations into papers. Do get in touch if you would like advice on what to do next.
A subset of patients with pemphigoid (herpes) gestationis has serological evidence of celiac disease
Authors: Saffari Hedieh , Zone John J. , Allen Marjorie , Leiferman Kristin M.
Published: February 2018

Background

Pemphigoid (herpes) gestationis (PG) is an uncommon, self‐limited disease with other autoimmune associations; however, celiac disease (CD) is not recognized as one.

Methods

From 71 patients’ sera submitted for herpes gestationis factor (HGF) testing over a 5‐year period, 12 were consistent with PG demonstrating HGF and increased IgG BP180 antibody levels; these sera were tested for IgA and IgG endomysial antibodies (EMA), epithelial basement membrane zone and cell surface antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence, and for IgA and IgG tissue transglutaminase (transglutaminase 2 or TG2) antibodies, IgA epidermal transglutaminase (transglutaminase 3 or TG3) antibodies, IgG BP230, and IgG desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 antibodies by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs).

Results

Three of 12 patients’ sera with PG (25%) had CD antibodies with positive IgA EMA and increased IgA TG2 antibody levels; two of these had positive IgG EMA, and one other had an increased IgA TG3 antibody level.

Conclusions

A subset of patients with serological findings of PG also has serological evidence of CD, which may have implications in the etiopathogenesis of PG and which reveals important information about the mother's, and possibly her infant's, health.
Repeated Reinterpretation of Civil Society: On the Intellectual Context of Niklas Luhmann's Sociological Theory
Authors: Koyama Yutaka
Published: February 2018

This article explains the intellectual context of Niklas Luhmann's sociological theory. Although Luhmann's theory is well known for its highly abstract features, this does not mean that the theory results from his references to the latest general systems theory, which has been the primary focus of previous literature. That said, no social theory is produced in a vacuum. Even if a theorist attempts to construct a general sociological theory to explain every social phenomenon, that theory is necessarily influenced by the theorist's prejudices. Therefore, social theory must be contextualized both to estimate its biases and to limit its scope. This study shows that Luhmann's systems theory is constructed through a struggle with the issues of his day. First, it notes that the question of how to conceptualize modern civil society was widely shared by German intellectuals from the late 1950s to the 1970s and that the question created a certain discourse field. Second, Luhmann's theoretical conception is contextualized in that field of discourse, and the central role of both the concept of functional differentiation and the concern with border maintenance in his theory‐building is explained in comparison with the work of contemporary intellectuals. To deepen our analysis, this article reconstructs Schmitt's interpretation and criticism of civil liberalism and describes Luhmann's struggle with it. Finally, by analyzing the Gesellschaftswissenschaften of Robert von Mohl, one of the founders of civil liberalism, this article argues that Luhmann's sociology can be characterized as an attempt to rehabilitate civil liberalism.
Affective responses to abuse in the workplace: The role of hope and affective commitment
Authors: Tillman C. Justice , Gonzalez Katerina , Crawford Wayne S. , Lawrence Ericka R.
Published: February 2018

Affective responses constitute the mechanism by which abusive supervision received is associated with subordinates’ turnover intentions. Using affective events theory (AET) as a theoretical framework, we suggest that abusive supervision is a contextual event that is associated with subordinates’ affective reactions and corresponding evaluative judgment of their workplace, which ultimately leads to increased turnover intentions, a prominent withdrawal outcome. We examine two affective responses as mediators, hope (a goal‐related affective state based on the expectation of positive outcomes) and affective commitment (affect‐based evaluation of the organization). Two samples from a field study (n = 209) and an experiment (n = 427) were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results supported our proposed chain of relationships, suggesting that subordinates are likely to experience decreased hope and affective commitment after having experienced abuse from a supervisor, which subsequently impact their withdrawal intention to leave the organization.
A Bride Deficit and Marriage Migration in South Korea
Authors: Cho Seo‐Young
Published: February 2018

This article empirically investigates whether cultural, genetic, and linguistic similarities between countries explain marriage migration. The empirical evidence supported by marriage migration data from South Korea shows that the bilateral similarities between Korea and spouse‐sending countries are important pull factors of marriage migration. Furthermore, the pull effects vary across different income levels of sending countries and between the genders of marriage migrants. The positive effects of cultural and genetic similarities are mainly driven by female marriage migrants from middle‐ and low‐income countries in Asia. A female deficit in the marital age group in South Korea may contribute to pulling this type of migration into the country.
Role of colonization history and species‐specific traits on contemporary genetic variation of two salamander species in a Holocene island‐mainland system
Authors: Lourenço André , Sequeira Fernando , Buckley David , Velo‐Antón Guillermo
Published: February 2018

Aim

Investigate the role of colonization history and life history traits on contemporary patterns of genetic variation in two salamander species in a Holocene island‐mainland system.

Location

Rías Baixas, north‐western Spain.

Methods

We analysed mitochondrial and species‐specific nuclear markers (eight microsatellite markers) in 16 populations of Salamandra salamandra and Lissotriton boscai. Contemporary gene flow patterns between mainland and island populations were evaluated by migration analyses, whereas approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) was used to assess colonization history of insular populations of both species.

Results

Land bridge populations of both species exhibited reduced genetic diversity and increased genetic structure compared to mainland populations. ABC analysis showed that insular populations of both species were established by vicariance rather than by colonization via dispersal. We did not find evidence for contemporary gene flow, though the L. boscai insular population of Sálvora showed genetic admixture with mainland populations.

Main conclusions

This study supports the role of genetic drift in driving contemporary genetic variation of small and isolated populations. Other interplaying factors (e.g. island size, bathymetry) seemed to influence genetic variation, highlighting the importance of integrative studies to better understand the evolutionary dynamics of land bridge populations of amphibians.
Research Review: Intergenerational transmission of disadvantage: epigenetics and parents' childhoods as the first exposure
Authors: Scorza Pamela , Duarte Cristiane S. , Hipwell Alison E. , Posner Jonathan , Ortin Ana , Canino Glorisa , Monk Catherine ,   Program Collaborators for Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes
Published: February 2018

Background

For decades, economists and sociologists have documented intergenerational transmission of socioeconomic disadvantage, demonstrating that economic, political, and social factors contribute to ‘inherited hardship’. Drawing on biological factors, the developmental origins of adult health and disease model posits that fetal exposure to maternal prenatal distress associated with socioeconomic disadvantage compromises offspring's neurodevelopment, affecting short‐ and long‐term physical and mental health, and thereby psychosocial standing and resources. Increasing evidence suggests that mother‐to‐child influence occurs prenatally, in part via maternal and offspring atypicalHPAaxis regulation, with negative effects on the maturation of prefrontal and subcortical neural circuits in the offspring. However, even this in utero timeframe may be insufficient to understand biological aspects of the transmission of factors contributing to disadvantage across generations.

Methods

We review animal studies and emerging human research indicating that parents' childhood experiences may transfer epigenetic marks that could impact the development of their offspring independently of and in interaction with their offspring's perinatal and early childhood direct exposures to stress stemming from socioeconomic disadvantage and adversity.

Results

Animal models point to epigenetic mechanisms by which traits that could contribute to disadvantage may be transmitted across generations. However, epigenetic pathways of parental childhood experiences influencing child outcomes in the next generation are only beginning to be studied in humans. With a focus on translational research, we point to design features and methodological considerations for human cohort studies to be able to test the intergenerational transmission hypothesis, and we illustrate this with existing longitudinal studies.

Conclusions

Epigenetic intergenerational transmission, if at play in human populations, could have policy implications in terms of reducing the continuation of disadvantage across generations. Further research is needed to address this gap in the understanding of the perpetuation of compromised lives across generations.
The role of general anesthesia on traits of neurodevelopmental disorders in a Swedish cohort of twins
Authors: Castellheim Albert , Lundström Sebastian , Molin Mattias , Kuja‐Halkola Ralf , Gillberg Carina , Gillberg Christopher
Published: February 2018

Background

The role of general anesthetics as a risk factor for possible neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in humans is unresolved. The investigation of the role of anesthetics in the development of postgeneral anesthesia (anesthesia onward) NDDs has proven to be complicated, partly because of the inherent confounding in clinical cohort studies, and partly by the fact that anesthetics are only one part in the complex process of anesthesia‐surgery.

Methods

Utilizing the Swedish databases Child and Adolescent Twins Study in Sweden (CATSS) and National Patient Register (NPR), we investigated twins discordant for anesthesia, born between 1997 and 2004 for traits of NDDs. We identified 68 twin pairs discordant for anesthesia and explored traits of Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disability (LD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in them while simultaneously taking congenital abnormalities and systemic disorders (CSDs) into account. We analyzed the possible effect of anesthesia on neurodevelopmental problems, and we analyzed the within‐pair differences using conditional linear regression.

Results

Twins with a recorded episode of anesthesia had higher traits of NDDs than twins without; similarly twins with CSDs had higher mean scores on all traits than twins without CSDs. The within‐pair analyses suggested that exposure to anesthesia was associated with higher scores of ADHD (regression coefficient 1.02 and 95% confidence intervals: 0.27–1.78) in monozygotic (MZ) twins discordant for anesthesia. This effect remained when adjusting for congenital abnormalities.

Discussion

Our finding that traits of ADHD were slightly associated with anesthesia in a genetically sensitive design is in need of replication and warrants further investigation. Future studies should aim to elucidate mechanisms behind this possible association (e.g. anesthetics doses, age at exposure, exposure duration).
Glimepiride treatment in a patient with type A insulin resistance syndrome due to a novel heterozygous missense mutation in the insulin receptor gene
Authors: Huang Zhimin , Liu Juan , Ng Kaka , Wan Xuesi , Xu Lijuan , He Xiaoying , Liao Zhihong , Li Yanbing
Published: February 2018

Aims/Introduction

Glimepiride is a sulfonylurea known to have unique insulin mimetic and sensitizing effects. We aimed to study the efficacy of glimepiride in a patient with type A insulin resistance syndrome.

Materials and Methods

A 15‐year‐old girl with type A insulin resistance syndrome was treated with glimpiride for 6 months. Self‐monitoring of blood glucose was recorded, and oral glucose tolerance tests on glucose and insulin were measured during the treatment. Hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp was used to evaluate whole‐body insulin sensitivity before and after the treatment.

Results

A novel heterozygous missense mutation at exon 19 (c.3427A>T) in the tyrosine kinase domain of the INSR gene was identified, causing an amino acid replacement of phenylalanine for isoleucine at codon 1143 (Ile1143Phe). Before the treatment, the patient's glycated hemoglobin was 7.0%, plasma glucose during oral glucose tolerance test was 6.7, 12.8 and 17.3 mmol/L, and simultaneous serum insulin was 80.7, 137.5 and >300 μU/mL. There were no significant differences between self‐monitored blood glucose measured at each time‐point among different glimepiride dosages, or during the 14 weeks when glimepiride was used at its maximal dosage (6 mg/day). Oral glucose tolerance test showed little change in plasma glucose and serum insulin. Glycated hemoglobin decreased by 0.8% after the treatment. However, a euglycemic clamp study showed that the M value decreased from 5.25 to 2.90 mg/kg/min, showing increased insulin resistance.

Conclusions

Treatment with glimepiride did not improve insulin sensitivity in a patient with type A insulin resistance syndrome carrying Ile1143Phe heterozygous mutation in the INSR gene. Large‐scale long‐term studies assembled worldwide are required to optimize treatment algorithms for patients with type A insulin resistance syndrome.
Atlantic sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus surfacing behaviour
Authors: Logan‐Chesney L. M. , Dadswell M. J. , Karsten R. H. , Wirgin I. , Stokesbury M. J. W.
Published: February 2018

Atlantic sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus surfacing behaviour was investigated in Minas Basin (45° 20′ N; 64° 00′ W) and the Bay of Fundy with pop‐up satellite archival tags (MiniPAT) measuring physical variables (pressure, temperature, light). Of six tags deployed during June and July, five provided pop‐up locations and two were recovered after c. 4 months. Analysis of recovered archival data revealed that the frequency of surfacing events was highest (78·9%) when A. oxyrinchus were in Minas Basin at depths <10 m. Surfacing frequency decreased substantially when fish migrated into greater depths of the Bay of Fundy (>40 m). The tidal cycle in Minas Basin had a significant relationship to surfacing frequency, with the most surfacing events (49·5%) occurring on the flood tide, from mid‐ to high‐tide. Surfacing events ranged from 0–12 a day and the maximum number occurred between 2300 and 0300 hours. Maximum surfacing ascent speeds ranged from 0·50 to 4·17 m s−1 and maximum descent speeds ranged from 0·17 to 3·17 m s−1. Buoyancy control, by gulping air to inflate the gas bladder, is proposed as the main reason for surfacing behaviour in A. oxyrinchus.
SDG721 and SDG705 are required for rice growth
Authors: Jiang Pengfei , Wang Shiliang , Ikram Aziz Ul , Xu Zuntao , Jiang Haiyang , Cheng Beijiu , Ding Yong
Published: February 2018

H3K4me3 plays important roles in development, transcription, and environmental responses. Here, we report that SDG721 (SET‐domain group protein 721) and SDG705 are involved in regulating rice development. SDG721 and SDG705 encode TRITHORAX‐like proteins, which appear to modulate H3K4 methylation levels. Loss of SDG721 and SDG705 function resulted in GA‐deficient phenotypes, including semi‐dwarfism, reduced cell length, and reduced panicle branching. The transcripts levels and H3K4me3 levels of GA biosynthesis genes and GA signaling pathway genes were downregulated in the sdg721 sdg705 plants. Together, these results suggest that SDG721 and SDG705 regulate H3K4 methylation, which is crucial for plant development in rice.