bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived human–elephant conflict and its impact for elephant conservation in northern Congo
Authors: Nsonsi Félicien , Heymans Jean‐Claude , Diamouangana Jean , Mavinga Franck Barrel , Breuer Thomas
Published: August 2017

Human–elephant conflict is a common conservation problem throughout Africa, but poorly studied where forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) occur. Here, we investigated people's perceptions towards the impact of elephants around Nouabalé‐Ndoki National Park, northern Congo. We aimed to understand the perceptual differences amongst residents of four villages that varied substantially in the degree of conservation benefits received. We used a multivariate analysis to investigate how socio‐economic variables, such as employment, wealth, education and ethnicity, influenced perceptions. Using both quantitative and qualitative data, we found that the majority of respondents experienced elephant impacts, mainly through crop raiding. Residents of the village where the local conservation project is based had significantly more positive perceptions of elephants, whereas perceptions of farmers were mostly negative. We identified some misunderstandings regarding the responsibilities of elephant impact mitigation regarding benefit sharing, stakeholder involvement and lawbreaking, but also willingness to apply mitigation measures. To mitigate the prevalent impact of elephants, a comprehensive approach of measuring impact, exploring community‐based mitigating strategies and understanding of the root causes of the conflict is crucial. We propose a long‐term programme within logging concessions organizing groups of farmers to cooperate on mitigation techniques and explore alternative incomes.
Water provision alters wildebeest adaptive habitat selection and resilience in the Central Kalahari
Authors: Selebatso Moses , Bennitt Emily , Maude Glyn , Fynn Richard W. S.
Published: August 2017

Wildlife populations in semi‐arid regions require unrestricted mobility along ecological gradients and across large landscapes to enable adaptive responses to seasonal variability and patchy resources. In the Kalahari region of Botswana, herbivore populations historically depended on seasonal access to the nutrient‐rich Schwelle area in the wet season and to water from the Boteti River during drought periods. Blue wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) have lost access to these key habitats due to fences and encroachment of livestock and humans. We deployed satellite collars onto 10 female wildebeest in the CKGR to examine seasonal movements and habitat selection in relation to the environmental conditions and fragmented ecosystem. Wildebeest favoured open, short‐grass pan habitats in all seasons, probably in response to better forage quality and lower predation risk. The ability to remain in pan habitats during the dry season was a result of artificial water provision. A wildebeest herd that had no artificial water in its home range survived the dry season, whereas those wildebeest that were accustomed to water provision died when their water points failed in the dry season. Thus, water provision altered adaptive behaviour and reduced resilience of the population to the arid environment.
Social and demographic influences on the feeding ecology of giraffe in the Luangwa Valley, Zambia: 1973–2014
Authors: Bercovitch Fred B. , Berry Philip S. M.
Published: August 2017

Body size influences metabolic rate, which impacts feeding ecology. Body mass differs by sex in size‐dimorphic species, such as giraffes, and also by age. Giraffes reside in a fission–fusion social system, which influences feeding ecology due to frequent changes in group size and composition. We analysed 40 years of feeding records collected from a population of Thornicroft's giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis thornicrofti) living in the Luangwa Valley, Zambia. We examined the influence of herd composition, age and sex on diet. Solitary males and herd males did not differ in diet. Dietary diversity was comparable for females and males, with sex differences in plant species eaten present during the dry season. Age differences in feeding ecology were pronounced, with juveniles often feeding on bushes and smaller trees, while adults tended to feed upon taller trees. Both sexes have evolved foraging strategies that maximize nutrient and energy intake commensurate with their reproductive strategies, with male metabolic requirements sometimes greater, and sometimes less, than that of females. We propose that females are not exchanging foraging efficiency with reproductive tactics by feeding on smaller trees in the open, but are increasing prospects for their calves to survive when confronted with interspecific competition by browsers.
Is the incidence of recurrent pregnancy loss increasing? A retrospective register‐based study in Sweden
Authors: Rasmark Roepke Emma , Matthiesen Leif , Rylance Rebecca , Christiansen Ole Bjarne
Published: August 2017

Introduction

The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). The prevalence of RPL defined as three or more consecutive miscarriages before gestation week 22, is often stated to be 1%. To our knowledge no study has estimated the incidence of RPL, which might be more informative and clinically relevant than the prevalence.

Material and methods

This retrospective register‐based study was conducted from 2003 until 2012 in Sweden with data provided by the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare. In all, 6852 women were registered with the diagnoses of RPL in the National Patient Register. The incidence of RPL is the number of new women receiving the RPL diagnosis per year in the numerator and population at risk in the denominator.

Results

For each year, from 2003 to 2012, the incidence was calculated in two different risk populations: [1] all women aged 18–42 years, and [2] all women registered as being pregnant (deliveries or miscarriages). The average incidence in the study period was 53 per 100 000 (0.05%) in women aged 18–42 years and 650 per 100 000 (0.65%) in women who had achieved pregnancy in the period. The incidence of RPL in the two risk populations increased by 74 and 58%, respectively, during the study period.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the incidence of RPL increased during the 10‐year period studied. Causes can only be speculated upon in this study design, but might be associated with environmental changes, as the increase was fairly rapid.
Serum levels of omentin‐1 are increased after weight loss and are particularly associated with increases in obese children with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Zhang Meizhen , Tan Xinrui , Yin Chunyan , Wang Li , Tie Yingchun , Xiao Yanfeng
Published: August 2017

Aim

There have been very few paediatric studies on omentin‐1, an anti‐inflammatory adipokine that provides a link between adiposity, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. This Chinese study evaluated the association between omentin‐1 and metabolic syndrome and analysed the effect of a six‐month lifestyle intervention on the levels in obese children.

Methods

We recruited 119 obese outpatients (75% boys) aged 7–18 years from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, who underwent a six‐ month lifestyle intervention. Our controls were 55 matched children with normal weight. Anthropometric parameters, biochemical data and circulating omentin‐1 levels were measured at baseline and after six months.

Results

Of the 119 obese children, 32 (27%) had metabolic syndrome. The obese children, particularly those with metabolic syndrome, had significantly lower serum omentin‐1 levels at baseline than the controls. We also found that the omentin‐1 levels were negatively associated with their body mass index, waist circumference and homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance. After the six‐month lifestyle intervention, the obese children showed significant weight loss and their omentin‐1 levels increased.

Conclusion

Serum omentin‐1 was regulated by weight and seemed to be associated with children's metabolic disorders. A six‐month lifestyle intervention significantly increased serum omentin‐1 levels.
Class I histone deacetylase inhibition improves pancreatitis outcome by limiting leukocyte recruitment and acinar‐to‐ductal metaplasia
Authors: Bombardo Marta , Saponara Enrica , Malagola Ermanno , Chen Rong , Seleznik Gitta M , Haumaitre Cecile , Quilichini Evans , Zabel Anja , Reding Theresia , Graf Rolf , Sonda Sabrina
Published: August 2017

Background and Purpose

Pancreatitis is a common inflammation of the pancreas with rising incidence in many countries. Despite improvements in diagnostic techniques, the disease is associated with high risk of severe morbidity and mortality and there is an urgent need for new therapeutic interventions. In this study, we evaluated whether histone deacetylases (HDACs), key epigenetic regulators of gene transcription, are involved in the development of the disease.

Experimental Approach

We analysed HDAC regulation during cerulein‐induced acute, chronic and autoimmune pancreatitis using different transgenic mouse models. The functional relevance of class I HDACs was tested with the selective inhibitor MS‐275 in vivo upon pancreatitis induction and in vitro in activated macrophages and primary acinar cell explants.

Key Results

HDAC expression and activity were up‐regulated in a time‐dependent manner following induction of pancreatitis, with the highest abundance observed for class I HDACs. Class I HDAC inhibition did not prevent the initial acinar cell damage. However, it effectively reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells, including macrophages and T cells, in both acute and chronic phases of the disease, and directly disrupted macrophage activation. In addition, MS‐275 treatment reduced DNA damage in acinar cells and limited acinar de‐differentiation into acinar‐to‐ductal metaplasia in a cell‐autonomous manner by impeding the EGF receptor signalling axis.

Conclusions and Implications

These results demonstrate that class I HDACs are critically involved in the development of acute and chronic forms of pancreatitis and suggest that blockade of class I HDAC isoforms is a promising target to improve the outcome of the disease.
Rubiarbonone C inhibits platelet‐derived growth factor‐induced proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells through the focal adhesion kinase, MAPK and STAT3 Tyr705 signalling pathways
Authors: Park Hyun‐Soo , Quan Khong Trong , Han Joo‐Hui , Jung Sang‐Hyuk , Lee Do‐Hyung , Jo Eunji , Lim Tae‐Wan , Heo Kyung‐Sun , Na MinKyun , Myung Chang‐Seon
Published: August 2017

Background and Purpose

The proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) induced by platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) are important steps in cardiovascular diseases, including neointimal lesion formation, myocardial infarction and atherosclerosis. Here, we evaluated the rubiarbonone C‐mediated signalling pathways that regulate PDGF‐induced VSMC proliferation and migration.

Experimental Approach

Cell proliferation and migration were measured in cells treated with rubiarbonone C followed by PDGF BB using the MTT assay, [3H]‐thymidine incorporation, flow cytometry and wound‐healing migration assay, MMP gelatin zymography, a fluorescence assay for F‐actin. Western blotting of molecules including MAPK, focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and STAT3 and an immunofluorescence assay using anti‐PCNA and ‐STAT3 antibodies were performed to evaluate rubiarbonone C signalling pathway(s). The medial thickness of the carotid artery was evaluated using a mouse carotid ligation model.

Key Results

Rubiarbonone C inhibited PDGF‐induced VSMC proliferation and migration and diminished the ligation‐induced increase in medial thickness of the carotid artery. In PDGF‐stimulated VSMCs rubiarbonone C decreased the following: (i) levels of cyclin‐dependent kinases, cyclins, PCNA and hyperphosphorylated retinoblastoma protein; (ii) levels and activity of MMP2 and MMP9; (iii) activation of MAPK; (iv) F‐actin reorganization, by reducing FAK activation; (v) activation of STAT3.

Conclusions and Implications

These findings suggest that rubiarbonone C inhibits the proliferation and migration of VSMCs by inhibiting the FAK, MAPK and STAT3 signalling pathways. Therefore, rubiarbonone C could be a good candidate for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Digital anthropology as method for lead user identification from unstructured big data
Authors: Somoza Sánchez Vella Verónica , Giacalone Davide , Goduscheit René Chester
Published: August 2017

This paper focuses on lead user identification in an open data context through the principles of digital anthropology (DA). The approach is demonstrated using a case study from the entertainment industry: the festival of Tomorrowland. Following the principles of DA, the specific data structure of the case selected is studied. This structure follows the tribal roles of Cova and Cova, which are then compared with the lead user characteristics of Belz and Baumbach. The different characteristics and roles are used afterwards to establish the user types that may be found in the big data set of the case study. Unlike earlier methods, such as netnography, which focuses on a specific user type as the main source of insights, our results show that DA requires a change of focus from specific individuals to groups of individuals with the capacity to produce the insights of a lead user. DA shows how all the roles in the data structure present different possibilities for innovation. The application of DA to big data enables the extension of analysis to whole populations instead of specific samples, bringing about new possibilities to model and extract the insights of consumers publicly exposed in the digital media.
Little Evidence That Socioeconomic Status Modifies Heritability of Literacy and Numeracy in Australia
Authors: Grasby Katrina L. , Coventry William L. , Byrne Brian , Olson Richard K.
Published: August 2017

Socioeconomic status (SES) has been found to moderate the influence of genes and the environment on cognitive ability, such that genetic influence is greater when SES is higher, and the shared environment is greater when SES is lower, but not in all Western countries. The effects of both family and school SES on the heritability of literacy and numeracy in Australian twins aged 8, 10, 12, and 14 years with 1,307, 1,235, 1,076, and 930 pairs at each age, respectively, were tested. Shared environmental influences on Grade 3 literacy were greater with low family SES, and no other moderating effects of SES were significant. These findings are contrasted with results from the United States and the United Kingdom.
The end of spasticity?
Authors: Dan Bernard
Published: August 2017

Video Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bC7NYmojsd4&t=4s
Progressive intellectual and neurological disorders: can surveillance lead to improved outcomes?
Authors: Walterfang Mark
Published: August 2017

This commentary is on the original article by Lori et al. on pages 959–964 of this issue.
Boom‐bust dynamics in biological invasions: towards an improved application of the concept
Authors: Strayer David L. , D'Antonio Carla M. , Essl Franz , Fowler Mike S. , Geist Juergen , Hilt Sabine , Jarić Ivan , Jöhnk Klaus , Jones Clive G. , Lambin Xavier , Latzka Alexander W. , Pergl Jan , Pyšek Petr , Robertson Peter , von Schmalensee Menja , Stefansson Robert A. , Wright Justin , Jeschke Jonathan M.
Published: August 2017

Boom‐bust dynamics – the rise of a population to outbreak levels, followed by a dramatic decline – have been associated with biological invasions and offered as a reason not to manage troublesome invaders. However, boom‐bust dynamics rarely have been critically defined, analyzed, or interpreted. Here, we define boom‐bust dynamics and provide specific suggestions for improving the application of the boom‐bust concept. Boom‐bust dynamics can arise from many causes, some closely associated with invasions, but others occurring across a wide range of ecological settings, especially when environmental conditions are changing rapidly. As a result, it is difficult to infer cause or predict future trajectories merely by observing the dynamic. We use tests with simulated data to show that a common metric for detecting and describing boom‐bust dynamics, decline from an observed peak to a subsequent trough, tends to severely overestimate the frequency and severity of busts, and should be used cautiously if at all. We review and test other metrics that are better suited to describe boom‐bust dynamics. Understanding the frequency and importance of boom‐bust dynamics requires empirical studies of large, representative, long‐term data sets that use clear definitions of boom‐bust, appropriate analytical methods, and careful interpretations.
How does hunger affect convergence on prey patches in a social forager?
Authors: Riddell Joanne , Webster Mike M.
Published: August 2017

Internal state, in this case hunger, is known to influence both the organisation of animal groups and the social foraging interactions that occur within them. In this study, we investigated the effects of hunger upon the time taken to locate and converge upon hidden simulated prey patches in a socially foraging fish, the threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). We predicted that groups of food‐deprived fish would find and recruit to prey patches faster than recently fed groups, reasoning that they might search more rapidly and be more attentive to inadvertent social information produced by other foragers. Instead we saw no difference between the two groups in the time taken to find the patches and found that in fact, once prey patches had been discovered, it was the recently fed fish that converged on them most rapidly. This finding is likely due to the fact that recently fed fish tend to organise themselves into fewer but larger subgroups, which arrived at the food patch together. Hunger has a significant impact upon the social organisation of the fish shoals, and it appears that this has a stronger effect upon the rate at which they converged upon the food patches than does internal state itself.
Effect of age and dietary carbohydrate profiles on glucose and insulin dynamics in horses
Authors: Jacob S. I. , Geor R. J. , Weber P. S. D. , Harris P. A. , McCue M. E.
Published: August 2017

Background

Glucose and insulin dynamics may be different in adult and aged horses.

Objectives

To determine the effects of age and dietary carbohydrates on glucose and insulin dynamics in healthy horses.

Study design

Balanced Latin square with four isocaloric diets:CONTROL(hay plus restricted‐starch‐and‐sugar fortified pellets),STARCH(control plus kibbled corn),FIBER(control plus unmolassed sugar beet pulp/soybean hull pellets) andSUGAR(control plus dextrose powder).

Methods

A total of 16 healthy Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds divided into two age groups:ADULT(8.8 ± 2.9 years; n = 8) andAGED(20.6 ± 2.1 years; n = 8). Following dietary adaptation, horses underwent an insulin‐modified frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test (FSIGTT), modified oral sugar test (OST) and dietary meal challenge. Outcome variables included: insulin sensitivity (SI), disposition index (DI), glucose effectiveness (Sg) and acute insulin response to glucose (AIRg) from theFSIGTT; peak glucose, peak insulin, time to peak, area under the curve for glucose (AUCg) and insulin (AUCi) from theOSTand dietary meal challenge. Data were analyzed using multivariable linear mixed regression modelling.

Results

AIRg was higher inAGED(mean [95% confidence interval]; 582.0 [455.0–709.0]) vs.ADULT(358.0 [224.0–491.0]; P = 0.03).ADULTandAGEDhorses had a higherSIonSTARCH(adult: 3.3 [2.3–4.2]; aged: 2.8 [1.9–3.7]) andSUGAR(adult: 3.4 [2.5–4.3]; aged: 4.0 [3.1–4.9]) diets compared withCONTROL(adult: 2.0 [1.1–2.9], P = 0.029 (starch), P = 0.009 (sugar); aged: 1.4 [0.5–2.2], P = 0.009 (starch), P < 0.001 (sugar)). Feeding aSTARCH(adult: 21581.0 [15029.0–28133.0]; aged: 35205.0 [29194.0–41216.0]) orSUGAR(adult: 26050.0 [19885.0–32215.0]; aged: 25720.0 [19770.0–31670.0]) meal resulted in postprandial hyperinsulinaemia (AUCi).

Main limitations

Study cohort contained two insulin‐sensitive breeds and no insulin‐resistant breeds.

Conclusions

Age and diet should be considered when evaluating glucose and insulin dynamics.
The Past and Future State of De Facto Parents in New York
Authors: Alpert Sara
Published: August 2017

Over the past two decades, the definition of “family” has expanded drastically. To address these changing family dynamics, many states have adopted de facto parent laws, which recognize a nonbiological or adoptive parent's right to petition for custody or visitation in strict circumstances. These laws differ drastically from state to state, leaving no common understanding of the requirements to be a de facto parent. Until recently, New York law refused to recognize de facto parents within the Domestic Relations Law, leaving New York as one of the only states without this important distinction. However, this year the Court of Appeals crafted a narrow exception to the rule and allowed for a de facto parent to petition for custody or visitation in extremely limited circumstances. This article proposes that the Court of Appeals’ decision was too restrictive and that New York should adopt a legal framework that reflects this new type of parent, while still recognizing public policy concerns.
Extending the Practice of Physician‐Assisted Suicide to Competent Minors
Authors: Chhikara Neelam
Published: August 2017

In an effort to address the mental and physical suffering terminally ill patients endure, some states have either legalized or decriminalized physician‐assisted suicide—a practice commonly referred to as death with dignity. However, as the practice of physician‐assisted suicide becomes accepted among states, competent minors continue to be excluded from legislative and judicial decisions. Regardless of parental consent, states institute an age requirement of eighteen years old for participants of physician‐assisted suicide. This Note proposes that states amend their physician‐assisted suicide statutes to (1) remove any age restriction, (2) create a standard of competency that minors must meet to be eligible for physician‐assisted suicide, and (3) implement a procedure to determine whether a minor meets the competency standard.
Commentary on Entrenched Postseparation Parenting Disputes: The Role of Interparental Hatred
Authors: Demby Steven
Published: August 2017

This commentary examines and expands upon Smyth and Moloney's descriptions of the challenges divorce practitioners face when attempting to establish working relationships with parents who display entrenched hatred. It is helpful for divorce practitioners to hold in mind two perspectives on entrenched hatred: one as a destructive hindrance to the goal of protecting children from exposure to parental conflict and the other as an emotion fulfilling urgent psychologically self‐protective and self‐enhancing functions for the parent in its grips. In seeking to form working relationships with such parents, it is helpful for divorce practitioners to understand these psychological needs of the parents without colluding with them. Practical implications for designing effective interventions stem from these understandings.
Direct‐to‐Consumer Genetic Testing, Gamete Donation, and the Law
Authors: Hoglund‐Shen Abigail
Published: August 2017

Once thousands of dollars, direct‐to‐consumer (DTC) genetic testing has become affordable and readily accessible in recent years. The technology can reveal a wealth of information to consumers: health risks, ancestry composition, and connections to genetic matches through relative databases. However, the law has not yet regulated many aspects of this new technology. This article analyzes how the law should regulate DTC genetic testing within the context of gamete donation. It will argue that gamete donors’ privacy interests warrant state regulation of DTC genetic testing kits and their associated genetic relative databases. It will also explore how state regulation should balance the competing interests of gamete donors and of donor‐conceived individuals.
Modern Language Instruction at Community College: A Survey‐Based Study of Modern Language Instructors
Authors: Nagano Tomonori , Funk Alexander , Ketcham Eric
Published: August 2017

This article presents and analyzes instructor data from the Students and Instructors of Languages at Community Colleges (SILCC) Survey. The SILCC Survey was designed to collect data from language professionals teaching at community colleges (CCs) on the specific challenges, opportunities, and potential areas of growth in their field. Results from 140 instructor responses in 101 CCs in 33 U.S. states are used to document the current state of teaching and learning of modern languages at CCs through a systematic survey procedure. The data on modern language instruction at CCs, a segment of the U.S. educational system underrepresented in scholarly discussions in the field of modern language, shows both strengths and areas in need of improvement.
Supratrochlear Neuralgia: A Prospective Case Series of 15 Patients
Authors: Pareja Juan A. , López‐Ruiz Pedro , Mayo Diego , Villar‐Quiles Rocío‐Nur , Cárcamo Alba , Gutiérrez‐Viedma Álvaro , Lastarria Carlo P. , Romeral María , Yangüela Julio , Cuadrado María‐Luz
Published: August 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe clinical features unique to supratrochlear neuralgia.

Background

The supratrochlear nerve supplies the medial aspect of the forehead. Due to the intricate relationship between supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves, neuralgic pain in this region has been traditionally attributed to supraorbital neuralgia. No cases of supratrochlear neuralgia have been reported so far.

Methods

From 2009 through 2016, we prospectively recruited patients with pain confined to the territory of the supratrochlear nerve.

Results

Fifteen patients (13 women, 2 men; mean age 51.4 years, standard deviation 14.9) presented with pain in the lower paramedian forehead, extending to the eyebrow in two patients and to the internal angle of the orbit in another. Pain was unilateral in 11 patients (six on the right, five on the left), and bilateral in four. Six patients had continuous pain and nine described intermittent pain. Palpation of the supratrochlear nerve at the medial third of the supraorbital rim resulted in hypersensitivity in all cases. All but one patient exhibited sensory disturbances within the painful area. Fourteen patients underwent anesthetic blockades of the supratrochlear nerve, with immediate relief in all cases and long‐term remission in three. Six of them had received unsuccessful anesthetic blocks of the supraorbital nerve. Five patients were treated successfully with oral drugs and one patient was treated with radiofrequency.

Conclusions

Supratrochlear neuralgia is an uncommon disorder causing pain in the medial region of the forehead. It may be differentiated from supraorbital neuralgia and other similar headaches and neuralgias based on the topography of the pain and the response to anesthetic blockade.
No relationship between late HIV diagnosis and social deprivation in newly diagnosed patients in France
Authors: Cuzin L , Yazdanpanah Y , Huleux T , Cotte L , Pugliese P , Allavena C , Reynes J , Poizot‐Martin I , Bani‐Sadr F , Delpierre C ,   the Dat'AIDS Study Group
Published: August 2017

Objectives

The aim of the study was to determine whether there is a relationship between social deprivation and time of HIV diagnosis in France.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from a multicentre database were used in the study. Patients with a first HIV diagnosis between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2015 were selected from the database. Deprivation was measured using the European Deprivation Index (EDI), which is an ecological index constructed from the address of residence and based on the smallest geographical census unit, in which individuals are classified so as to be comparable with national quintiles. Time of diagnosis was classified as being at an early, intermediate, late, or advanced stage of disease. Age, gender, distance from home to HIV centre, most probable route of infection, and hepatitis B or C coinfection were considered in the analysis. Because of a strong interaction between gender and most probable route of infection, we constructed a ‘population’ variable: men who have sex with men (MSM), heterosexual men and women.

Results

Of 1421 newly diagnosed patients, 44% were diagnosed either late or at an advanced stage of disease, and 46.3% were in the highest deprivation quintile. Using multivariate logistic regression, ‘population’ [odds ratio (OR) 0.62 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.78) for MSM compared with women] and age [OR 1.39 (95% CI 1.07–1.80), 1.72 (1.32–2.23) and 1.86 (1.40–2.47) for the second, third and fourth quartiles, respectively, compared with the first quartile] were found to be related to late diagnosis. EDI level was not related to late HIV diagnosis.

Conclusions

‘Population’ seems to be more relevant than EDI to define evidence‐based interventions to limit late diagnosis.
Needs assessment for patients food intake monitoring among Indonesian healthcare professionals
Authors: Budiningsari D. , Shahar S. , Abdul Manaf Z. , Susetyowati S.
Published: August 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to provide a needs assessment related to the current practice of food intake monitoring for hospitalized adult patients among healthcare professionals and obtain feedback for the development of a new dietary assessment tool.

Background

Continuous effort has been made to identify patients at high risk of malnutrition, but monitoring and documentation of nutritional intake are relative less emphasized upon.

Methods

A needs assessment through a cross‐sectional study design was carried out at six hospitals in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A self‐administered semi‐structured questionnaire was filled out by 111 respondents recruited from three different professions (nurses, dietitians and serving assistants) in the wards.

Results

Seventy per cent of the respondents perceived that the current dietary assessment tool used to record patients’ food intake was simple; however, the disadvantage of this tool was its tedious process of computing nutritional values of food consumed. Furthermore, more than half respondents encountered problems in conducting food intake record of patients, primarily due to limited number of human resources, followed by time constraints and perception that such dietary assessment as not part of their job scope.

Discussion

This study has revealed important information in developing a simple, valid and reliable dietary assessment tool for monitoring food intake of hospitalized patients to be applied by interdisciplinary hospital professionals.

Conclusions

Awareness of the important on monitoring nutrient intake of patients should be emphasized among healthcare professionals. The current dietary assessment tool requires modification due to lengthy time taken to complete the task and poor accuracy in intake estimation.

Implication for nursing and health policy

Hospitals should provide protocols and guidelines of cooperation among interdisciplinary professionals, including nurses, which includes a simple dietary assessment tool to assist nutritional management of hospitalized patients.
How are analysts’ forecasts affected by high uncertainty?
Authors: Amiram Dan , Landsman Wayne R. , Owens Edward L. , Stubben Stephen R.
Published: August 2017

This study examines whether key characteristics of analysts’ forecasts—timeliness, accuracy, and informativeness—change when investor demand for information is likely to be especially high, i.e., during periods of high uncertainty. Findings reveal that when uncertainty is high, analysts’ forecasts are more timely but less accurate. However, analysts’ forecasts are also more informative to the market, which is consistent with investors’ demand for timely information, even if it is less accurate. We observe these findings when market prices are increasing and decreasing, consistent with the findings resulting from uncertainty in general rather than just uncertainty associated with market declines. We also examine how timeliness, accuracy, and informativeness change in response to elevated levels of three sources of uncertainty—market, industry, and firm level. We predict and find that analysts are better able to deal with heightened industry uncertainty, as reflected by greater timeliness with no loss in forecast accuracy. In contrast, analysts have greater difficulty dealing with heightened market uncertainty, as both timeliness and forecast accuracy decline.
Efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in combination with conventional antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection: a meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Kim H.‐B. , Myung S.‐K. , Lee Y.‐J. , Park B.‐J. ,   the Korean Meta‐Analysis (KORMA) Study Group
Published: August 2017

Background

Although a contributory role of vitamin D levels for the development of chronic hepatitis C has been suggested, the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in combination with conventional antiviral therapy consisting of pegylated interferon‐α (Peg‐IFN‐α) injection and oral ribavirin (RBV) remains unclear. We investigated its efficacy in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C via a meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov and the bibliographies of relevant articles to locate additional publications in September 2016. Three evaluators independently reviewed and selected eligible studies based on predetermined selection criteria.

Results

Of 522 articles meeting our initial criteria, a total of seven open‐label, randomised controlled trials involving 548 participants, were included in the final analysis. Vitamin D supplementation in combination with Peg‐IFN‐α injection and oral RBV significantly increased the rate of viral response for hepatitis C at 24 weeks after treatment in a random‐effects meta‐analysis (relative risk = 1.30; 95% confidence interval = 1.04–1.62; I2 = 75.9%). Also, its significant efficacy was observed in patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 1, which is known to be refractory to antiviral therapy.

Conclusions

In summary, we observed that additional use of vitamin D has a positive effect on sustained viral response rates of patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. However, we cannot establish the efficacy because of substantial heterogeneity, a small sample size and a low methodological quality.
Markers for Guillain‐Barré syndrome with poor prognosis: a multi‐center study
Authors: Yamagishi Yuko , Suzuki Hidekazu , Sonoo Masahiro , Kuwabara Satoshi , Yokota Takanori , Nomura Kyoichi , Chiba Atsuro , Kaji Ryuji , Kanda Takashi , Kaida Kenichi , Ikeda Shu‐ichi , Mutoh Tatsuro , Yamasaki Ryo , Takashima Hiroshi , Matsui Makoto , Nishiyama Kazutoshi , Sobue Gen , Kusunoki Susumu
Published: August 2017

Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute monophasic neuropathy. Prognostic tools include the modified Erasmus GBS outcome score (mEGOS), Erasmus GBS respiratory insufficiency score (EGRIS), and the increase in serum IgG levels (ΔIgG) 2 weeks after intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment. Given that proportions of GBS subtypes differ between Western countries and Japan, the usefulness of these tools in Japan or other countries remains unknown. We enrolled 177 Japanese patients with GBS from 15 university hospitals and retrospectively obtained mEGOS and EGRIS for all and ΔIgG status for 79 of them. High mEGOS scores on admission or on day 7 were significantly associated with poorer outcomes (unable to walk independently at 6 months). High EGRIS scores (≥5 points) were associated with an increased risk for mechanical ventilation. Patients with ΔIgG <1,108 mg/dl had significantly poorer outcomes. We suggest that mEGOS, EGRIS, and ΔIgG in GBS are clinically relevant in Japan.
Maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring personality in childhood and adulthood
Authors: Sutin Angelina R. , Flynn Heather A. , Terracciano Antonio
Published: August 2017

Objective

Maternal smoking during pregnancy (MSDP) has been associated with offspring internalizing and externalizing disorders. The purpose of this research is to examine whether MSDP is also associated with variations in normal personality traits in childhood and adulthood.

Method

This study uses four independent samples (total N = 16,323) to examine whether there are mean‐level differences in offspring personality traits by MSDP, controlling for relevant sociodemographic factors. Two samples are of children (Ns = 3,782 and 3,841) and two samples are of adults (Ns = 1,786 and 6,914).

Results

A meta‐analysis across the four samples indicated that offspring of mothers who did smoke during pregnancy scored higher in Neuroticism (p = .000) and Extraversion (p = .003) and lower in Conscientiousness (p = .002) than offspring of mothers who did not smoke during pregnancy. The association between MSDP and Neuroticism and Conscientiousness held across both childhood and adulthood and when propensity score matching was used, whereas the association with Extraversion was only apparent in adulthood and did not hold with propensity scores.

Conclusions

These results suggest that MSDP is associated with individual differences in psychological traits in childhood and adulthood and may be one prenatal factor that contributes to trait Neuroticism and Conscientiousness.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of two caries prevention methods in the first permanent molar in children
Authors: Khouja Tumader , Smith Kenneth J.
Published: August 2017

Background

Evidence supports two methods for preventing dental caries lesions in children: pit and fissure sealants (PFS) and fluoride varnishes (FV). The aim of this study was to compare the cost‐effectiveness of these two strategies in preventing dental caries lesions on the occlusal surface of the first permanent molar in children.

Methods

A Markov model was used to simulate the progression of dental caries on the occlusal surface of the first permanent molar in a hypothetical cohort of children over a 9‐year period. Transition probabilities were extracted from the published literature and costs were calculated from a payer's perspective. Two scenarios were evaluated based on the probability of replacing a failed PFS. Sensitivity analysis was performed to test the robustness of the model.

Results

Over the 9‐year study period PFS were less expensive and more effective than FV in preventing occlusal dental caries lesions. For the base case scenario the probability of replacing a failed PFS was 100 percent and the Incremental Cost‐Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) for PFS was $156.87 per first episode of caries lesion averted. For the second scenario, the probability of replacing a failed PFS was lowered to 50 percent. Here, the ICER dropped to $113.00 per first episode of caries lesion averted and remained the dominant strategy.

Conclusion

PFS should be the preferred method for the prevention of dental caries lesion on the occlusal surface of the first permanent molar, especially in children who are at high risk and have barriers of access to dental care.
Marginal distribution and high heterozygosity of asexual Caloglossa vieillardii (Delesseriaceae, Rhodophyta) along the Australian coasts
Authors: Kamiya Mitsunobu , Saba Erika , West John A.
Published: August 2017

In animals and land plants, many asexual species originate through inter‐ or intraspecific crosses, and such heterozygous asexuals frequently are more abundant than their sexual relatives in marginal habitats. Although asexual species have been reported in various macroalgal taxa, detailed information regarding their distribution, heterozygosity, and origin is limited. Because many asexual tetrasporophyte strains of Caloglossa vieillardii have been isolated from South Australia, far from their core tropical habitats, we re‐examined the distribution range of asexual C. vieillardii and genotyped these and other western Pacific strains using an actin gene marker. We confirmed the marginal distribution of the asexuals; however, a small patch of sexual thalli was newly discovered 450 km further west from asexual populations in South Australia. Three heterozygous genotypes and one homozygous genotypes were detected from nine asexual populations; 21 heterozygous strains were obligately asexual, but one homozygous strain suddenly produced sexual gametophytes after several years of culture. We hypothesized that the most abundant heterozygous genotype (defined as type 3/4) in asexual populations occurred by a cross between type 3 and type 4 allele gametophytes, both of which were isolated from the Australian coasts. In the crossing experiments, certain combinations between type 3 females and type 4 males produced tetrasporophytes, which recycled successive tetrasporophytes. In the culture experiments, whereas both sexual and asexual strains successfully produced tetraspores at 12°C, no sexual strains released carpospores below 14°C. However, it is uncertain whether this slight difference of maturation temperature was related to the marginal distribution of asexual C. vieillardii.
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of a Putative Ecdysis‐triggering Hormone Receptor (ETHR) Gene from Macrobrachium nipponense
Authors: Liang Guo‐Xia , Fu Hong‐Tuo , Qiao Hui , Sun Sheng‐Ming , Zhang Wen‐Yi , Jin Shu‐Bo , Gong Yong‐Sheng , Jiang Su‐Fei , Xiong Yi‐Wei , Wu Yan
Published: August 2017

Ecdysis‐triggering hormone receptor (ETHR) is a G protein‐coupled receptor that plays crucial physiological roles in arthropod molting. In this study, the full‐length complementary DNA of a putative ETHR gene of Macrobrachium nipponense (ETHR) was cloned and its expression examined. The transcript encoded 390 amino acids, including seven transmembrane domains and specific functional sites that are highly conserved among arthropod species. ETHR expression was examined in 10 different tissue types and was most highly expressed in brain tissue, indicating that the brain is the major functional site of ETHR activity. ETHR displayed relatively low expression levels during early embryonic development (cleavage, blastula, and gastrula stages) and then gradually increased from the nauplius stage, with a significant increase in the zoea stage. ETHR levels significantly increased in the brain and epidermis during the premolt stage. Eyestalk ablation induced significant upregulation of ETHR expression after 3 d. Downregulation of ETHR expression by double‐stranded RNA‐mediated RNA interference reduced the molting frequency of M. nipponense to almost half of that in the control group. This study suggests that the putative ETHR plays an important role in facilitating the molting process in M. nipponense.
The optimal method for pricing Bermudan options by simulation
Authors: Ibáñez Alfredo , Velasco Carlos
Published: August 2017

Least‐squares methods enable us to price Bermudan‐style options by Monte Carlo simulation. They are based on estimating the option continuation value by least‐squares. We show that the Bermudan price is maximized when this continuation value is estimated near the exercise boundary, which is equivalent to implicitly estimating the optimal exercise boundary by using the value‐matching condition. Localization is the key difference with respect to global regression methods, but is fundamental for optimal exercise decisions and requires estimation of the continuation value by iterating local least‐squares (because we estimate and localize the exercise boundary at the same time). In the numerical example, in agreement with this optimality, the new prices or lower bounds (i) improve upon the prices reported by other methods and (ii) are very close to the associated dual upper bounds. We also study the method's convergence.
Consistent recalibration of yield curve models
Authors: Harms Philipp , Stefanovits David , Teichmann Josef , Wüthrich Mario V.
Published: August 2017

The analytical tractability of affine (short rate) models, such as the Vasiček and the Cox–Ingersoll–Ross (CIR) models, has made them a popular choice for modeling the dynamics of interest rates. However, in order to properly account for the dynamics of real data, these models must exhibit time‐dependent or even stochastic parameters. This breaks their tractability, and modeling and simulating become an arduous task. We introduce a new class of Heath–Jarrow–Morton (HJM) models that both fit the dynamics of real market data and remain tractable. We call these models consistent recalibration (CRC) models. CRC models appear as limits of concatenations of forward rate increments, each belonging to a Hull–White extended affine factor model with possibly different parameters. That is, we construct HJM models from “tangent” affine models. We develop a theory for continuous path versions of such models and discuss their numerical implementations within the Vasiček and CIR frameworks.
Behçet Kemal Çağlar's Kur’ân‐ı Kerîm'den İlhamlar (Inspirations from the Holy Qur’ān): A Kemalist's Personal, Poetic Response to the Qur’ān
Authors: Alhassen Leyla Ozgur
Published: August 2017

Behçet Kemal Çağlar, 1908–1969, is the author of a commentary of the Qur’ān, Kur’ân‐ı Kerîm'den İlhamlar (‘Inspirations from the Holy Qur’ān’), published in 1966. This work can be described as a poetic reflection on the Qur’ān. It does not adhere to rendering every line or verse, but instead insists on maintaining a rhythmic cadence and end‐rhyme. Although it resembles a translation in some ways, Çağlar refuses to call his work a translation. This paper begins by introducing Çağlar and his text, a brief history of Turkish translations of the Qur’ān, then Çağlar's approach is contrasted with the aims of translators of the Qur’ān. Çağlar's text is studied in more detail, providing a sample of the Turkish text and a translation of it into English, focusing on Çağlar's reflection on Sūrat Ṭaha. Through this study, it becomes clear that as a result of his prioritizing the literary aspects of the Qur’ān in his reflection, Çağlar's book has an advantage over literal translations of the Qur'an and it can be useful for Qur’ān translation. At the same time, Çağlar's book is a reflection of a desire to develop a Turkish Islam—a manifestation of Islam that came from Turkey, that reflected its language and culture and that was intelligible to its people.