bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond lifestyle interventions: exploring the potential of anti‐obesity medications in the UK
Authors: Wilding J. P. H.
Published: April 2018

In the UK, over one‐quarter of the adult population have obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg m−2). This has major implications for patients’ health and the National Health Service. Despite published studies showing that significant weight loss can be achieved and maintained in primary care, and guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, weight management services are inconsistently implemented. This may be due primarily to workload and financial constraints. There is also a lack of belief that specialist weight management services and anti‐obesity medications (AOMs) are a viable alternative to bariatric surgery for long‐term maintenance of weight loss. This article discusses the challenges facing obesity management and explores the reasons for the lack of investment in AOMs in the UK to date. The aim of this article is to identify whether the newer AOMs, such as naltrexone/bupropion and liraglutide 3.0 mg, are likely to perform better in a real‐world setting than current or withdrawn AOMs. In addition, it considers whether the equitable provision of specialist weight management services and future clinical trial design could be improved to help identify those individuals most likely to benefit from AOMs and, thus, improve outcomes for people with obesity in the UK.
A mixed method evaluation of adult tier 2 lifestyle weight management service provision across a county in Northern England
Authors: Ells L. , Watson P. , Carlebach S. , O'Malley C. , Jones D. , Machaira T. , Whittaker V. , Clements H. , Walker P. , Needham K. , Summerbell C. , Coulton V. , Araujo‐Soares V.
Published: April 2018

Adult obesity in the UK remains a public health priority. Current guidance recommends local areas provide multicomponent interventions to treat adults with overweight and obesity; however, there is currently a dearth of published evidence on the evaluation of these programmes. This study reports on a mixed method evaluation of seven tier 2 weight management programmes funded by a local authority in the North of England through their public health grant (a lifestyle multicomponent weight management programme for the treatment of adults with overweight and obesity, but not severe obesity, or obesity with severe co‐morbidities). Data collected from over 2000 participants demonstrated that the proportion of participants achieving 5% initial body weight loss was comparable to that reported in recent UK weight management trials. Two services exceeded national criteria of 30% of participants achieving 5% initial body weight loss at 12 weeks, although long term data was limited. Greater weight loss was also observed in participants aged 35–44 and those without co‐morbidities. This study provides important learning points for improvements in real world weight management services, these include: standardised data collection and management tools; staff training and communication requirements; the importance of programmes that are joined up to wider support services; and the importance of providing ongoing peer and provider support, continuous monitoring and feedback, and physical activities tailored to user needs.
1,25(OH)2D3 inhibited Th17 cells differentiation via regulating the NF‐κB activity and expression of IL‐17
Authors: Sun Dong , Luo Fei , Xing Jun‐chao , Zhang Fei , Xu Jian‐zhong , Zhang Ze‐hua
Published: April 2018

Objectives

The role of vitamin D (VD) in innate and adaptive immune responses to tuberculosis is still unclear. Our research was aimed to uncover the effect of VD on Th17 cells and elucidate potential molecular mechanism.

Materials and methods

VDR‐deficient and wild‐type mice were used to obtain CD4 T cells. Th17 cells were induced and activated by Bacillus Calmette Guerin. Flow cytometry was used to analyse the apoptosis rate and degree of differentiation of Th17 cells in the treatment of 1,25(OH)2D3. The interaction between P65 and Rorc was determined by immunofluorescence assay, luciferase reporter assay, EMSA‐Super‐shelf assay and ChIP assay. Co‐IP assay was carried out to test the interaction between VDR and NF‐κB family proteins. qRT‐PCR and Western blot were also performed to detect the levels of P65, RORγt and IL‐17.

Results

The Th17 cells differentiation was suppressed by 1,25(OH)2D3 in vitro. We confirmed that Rorc was a downstream gene of the transcription factor P65. VDR interacts with P105/P50, P100/P52 and P65 NF‐κB family proteins. 1,25(OH)2D3 inhibited the expression of RORγt/IL‐17 by suppressing p65 transcription factor translocating to nucleus. In vivo experiments, the expression of IL‐17 and RANKL was suppressed by 1,25(OH)2D3 by VD receptor. Moreover, 1,25(OH)2D3 suppressed the inflammatory infiltrates and inhibited the expression of P65, RORγt and IL‐17 in the spleen tissues of model mice.

Conclusions

Together, 1,25(OH)2D3 suppressed the differentiation of Th17 cells via regulating the NF‐κB activity.
A tale of two clones: Caldesmon staining in the differentiation of cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms
Authors: Beck Emily M. , Bauman Tyler M. , Rosman Ilana S.
Published: April 2018

Background

We sought to compare the sensitivity and specificity of 2 different caldesmon antibodies in differentiating leiomyosarcoma from other cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms.

Methods

Representative cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms were identified, including leiomyosarcoma, atypical fibroxanthoma, dermatomyofibroma and spindle cell squamous cell carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry was performed with antibodies directed toward caldesmon, smooth‐muscle actin (SMA) and desmin. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated using grades from 3 independent observers.

Results

The sensitivity of caldesmon (Ventana) was 100% (95% CI 78.2%‐100%) and the specificity was 8.3% (2.8%‐18.4%). Because this stain appeared to be non‐specific, additional testing was performed on the same set of specimens using a second caldesmon clone (H‐caldesmon, Dako), which had a sensitivity of 53.9% (25.1%‐80.8%) and specificity of 96.6% (88.1%‐99.6%). The sensitivity and specificity of SMA were 85.7% (57.2%‐98.2%) and 84.5% (72.6%‐92.7%), respectively. The sensitivity of desmin was 53.3% (26.6%‐78.7%) with a specificity of 100% (94.0%‐100%).

Conclusions

The Ventana caldesmon clone is not specific to smooth muscle, a potential pitfall to laboratories using this clone. The staining pattern, sensitivity and specificity of the Dako H‐caldesmon antibody clone are similar to results from prior studies. The sensitivity and specificity of the Dako clone support its use in smooth muscle identification as an additional marker in challenging cases.
Reproducibility of diagnostic criteria associated with atypical breast cytology: A methodological issue
Authors: Naderi M , Sabour S
Published: April 2018

A response to the article by Weigner et al. in Vol. 29, Issue 1.
Alien futures: What is on the horizon for biological invasions?
Authors: Dehnen‐Schmutz Katharina , Boivin Thomas , Essl Franz , Groom Quentin J. , Harrison Laura , Touza Julia M. , Bayliss Helen
Published: April 2018

Aim

To collect and identify the issues that may affect the future global and local management of biological invasions in the next 20–50 years and provide guidance for the prioritization of actions and policies responding to the management challenges of the future.

Location

Global

Methods

We used an open online survey to poll specialists and stakeholders from around the world as to their opinion on the three most important future issues both globally and at their respective local working level.

Results

The 240 respondents identified 629 global issues that we categorized into topics. We summarized the highest rated topics into five broad thematic areas: (1) environmental change, particularly climate change, (2) the spread of species through trade, (3) public awareness, (4) the development of new technologies to enhance management and (5) the need to strengthen policies. The respondents also identified 596 issues at their respective local working levels. Management, early detection, prevention and funding‐related issues all ranked higher than at the global level. Our global audience of practitioners, policymakers and researchers also elicited topics not identified in horizon scanning exercises led by scientists including potential human health impacts, the need for better risk assessments and legislation, the role of human migration and water management.

Main conclusions

The topic areas identified in this horizon scan provide guidance where future policy priorities for invasive alien species should be set. First, to reduce the magnitude and speed of environmental change and its impacts on biological invasions; second, to restrict the movement of potentially invasive alien species via trade; third, to raise awareness with the general public and empower them to act; and finally, to invest in innovative technologies that can detect and mitigate adverse impacts of introduced species.
Accumulation of advanced glycation end products is associated with macrovascular events and glycaemic control with microvascular complications in Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yozgatli K. , Lefrandt J. D. , Noordzij M. J. , Oomen P. H. N. , Brouwer T. , Jager J. , Castro Cabezas M. , Smit A. J.
Published: April 2018

Aim

The United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) study showed that glycaemic control (HbA1c) can predict vascular complications in Type 2 diabetes mellitus. The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) study showed that accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) from skin biopsies predicts vascular complications in Type 1 diabetes. Previously, we showed that tissue AGEs can be measured non‐invasively using skin autofluorescence (SAF). The aim of this study was to compare the predictive value of HbA1c and SAF for new macrovascular events and microvascular complications in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of 563 participants, median age 64 years [interquartile range (IQR) 57–72], diabetes duration of 13 years, from five Dutch hospitals was performed.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 5.1 (IQR 4.3–5.9) years, 79 (15%) participants had died and 49 (9%) were lost to follow‐up. Some 133 (26%) developed a microvascular complication and 189 (37%) a macrovascular event. Tertiles of HbA1c were significantly associated with development of microvascular complications (log rank P = 0.022), but not with macrovascular events. Tertiles of SAF were significantly associated with macrovascular events (log rank P = 0.003). Cox regression analysis showed SAF was associated with macrovascular events: crude hazard ratio (HR) 1.53 (P < 0.001) per unit increase, HR 1.28 (P = 0.03) after correction for UKPDS score. HbA1c was predictive for microvascular complications: crude HR 1.20 (P = 0.004), HR 1.20 (P = 0.004) after correction for UKPDS score.

Conclusion

This study shows that tissue accumulation of AGEs, assessed by SAF, is associated with development of macrovascular events in people with Type 2 diabetes, whereas HbA1c is associated with the development of microvascular complications.
HbA1c response after insulin initiation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in real life practice: Identifying distinct subgroups
Authors: Sidorenkov Grigory , van Boven Job F. M. , Hoekstra Trynke , Nijpels Giel , Hoogenberg Klaas , Denig Petra
Published: April 2018

Aims

To identify subgroups of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) following distinct trajectories of HbA1c after insulin initiation and explore underlying differences in clinical characteristics.

Materials and methods

A cohort study was conducted in patients with T2DM initiating insulin in 2007–2013 with a follow‐up of 2 to 4 years. Data were collected from the Groningen Initiative to Analyze Type 2 Diabetes Treatment (GIANTT) database. The primary outcome was subgroups with different trajectories of HbA1c patterns after insulin initiation, as identified by latent class growth modeling. Differences between subgroups were tested using one‐way ANOVA, Kruskal‐Wallis or chi‐square tests, where appropriate.

Results

From 1459 patients, three subgroups with distinct HbA1c patterns were identified. Group 1 (8%) initially showed a moderate decrease followed by an increase in HbA1c 2 years later, despite receiving more comedication. Group 2 (84%) showed a stable decrease. Group 3 (8%) had a high initial level of HbA1c and a rapid decline within the first year, followed by a slow increase thereafter. Group 1 patients were on average 6–7 years younger than patients in groups 2 and 3 and were more likely to receive sulfonylureas than Group 3 patients. Group 3 patients had a shorter diabetes duration and were less well‐controlled for HbA1c, systolic blood pressure and LDL‐cholesterol at insulin initiation.

Conclusions

Most patients showed a stable HbA1c response, but one out of six patients showed either a poor response, or a rapid initial response only after insulin initiation. Response patterns were associated with age, diabetes duration and risk‐factor controls at the time of insulin initiation.
‘No evidence of disease activity’ – is it an appropriate surrogate in multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Hegen H. , Bsteh G. , Berger T.
Published: April 2018

The increasing number of disease‐modifying treatments available for multiple sclerosis has broadened treatment options for patients, but also challenges clinicians to select the best therapy for each individual at the appropriate stage of the disease. Early prediction of treatment response still remains one of the main difficulties in the management of multiple sclerosis patients. The concept of ‘no evidence of disease activity’ (NEDA) has been proposed as a surrogate for treatment response based on the absence of relapses, disability progression and radiological activity. Although there are several apparently logical arguments for the NEDA approach, there are also some major concerns that have to be considered and that are not sufficiently addressed yet. Amongst others, each parameter's limitations are not eliminated solely by its use within a composite score, and the contribution of each parameter to NEDA is not well balanced, as the detection of, for example, a single new magnetic resonance imaging lesion is considered as significant as the occurrence of a severely disabling relapse. NEDA in its current form also neglects underlying pathophysiology of the disease, has not been shown to fulfil formal criteria of a surrogate marker and its prognostic value has not been sufficiently evidenced yet. From a clinical point of view, ‘evidence of disease activity’ seems the more relevant surrogate; however, its implications are even less clear than those of NEDA. Here, existing literature on NEDA is critically reviewed and improvements are discussed that value its potential use in clinical trials and, even more importantly, treatment decision making in daily routine.
Spin‐labeled derivatives of cardiotonic steroids as tools for characterization of the extracellular entrance to the binding site on Na+,K+‐ATPase
Authors: Guo Jin‐Hua , Jiang Ren‐Wang , Andersen Jacob Lauwring , Esmann Mikael , Fedosova Natalya U.
Published: April 2018

The information obtained from crystallized complexes of the Na+,K+‐ATPase with cardiotonic steroids (CTS) is not sufficient to explain differences in the inhibitory properties of CTS such as stereoselectivity of CTS binding or effect of glycosylation on the preference to enzyme isoforms. The uncertainty is related to the spatial organization of the hydrophilic cavity at the entrance of the CTS‐binding site. Therefore, there is a need to supplement the crystallographic description with data obtained in aqueous solution, where molecules have significant degree of flexibility. This work addresses the applicability of the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) method for the purpose. We have designed and synthesized spin‐labeled compounds based on the cinobufagin steroid core. The length of the spacer arms between the steroid core and the nitroxide group determines the position of the reporting group (N‐O) confined to the binding site. High affinity to Na+,K+‐ATPase is inferred from their ability to inhibit enzymatic activity. The differences between the EPR spectra in the absence and presence of high ouabain concentrations identify the signature peaks originating from the fraction of the spin labels bound within the ouabain site. The degree of perturbations of the EPR spectra depends on the length of the spacer arm. Docking of the compounds into the CTS site suggests which elements of the protein structure might be responsible for interference with the spin label (e.g., steric clashes or immobilization). Thus, the method is suitable for gathering information on the cavity leading to the CTS‐binding site in Na+,K+‐ATPase in all conformations with high affinity to CTS.
The functional response and resilience in small waterbodies along land‐use and environmental gradients
Authors: Thornhill Ian A. , Biggs Jeremy , Hill Matthew J. , Briers Robert , Gledhill David , Wood Paul J. , Gee John H. R. , Ledger Mark , Hassall Christopher
Published: April 2018

There is growing recognition of the essential services provided to humanity by functionally intact ecosystems. Freshwater ecosystems are found throughout agricultural and urban landscapes and provide a wide range of ecosystem services, but globally they are also amongst the most vulnerable. In particular, ponds (lentic waters typically less than 2 ha), provide natural flood management, sequester carbon and hold significant cultural value. However, to inform their management it is important to understand (1) how functional diversity varies in response to disturbance and (2) the link between biodiversity conservation and ecosystem function. In this study, a meta‐analysis of seven separate pond studies from across England and Wales was carried out to explore the effect of urban and agricultural land‐use gradients, shading, emergent vegetation, surface area andpHupon groups of functionally similar members of the macroinvertebrate fauna. Functional effect groups were first identified by carrying out a hierarchical cluster analysis using body size, voltinism and feeding habits (18 categories) that are closely related to biogeochemical processes (e.g. nutrient and carbon recycling). Secondly, the influence of the gradients upon effect group membership (functional redundancy—FR) and the breadth of traits available to aid ecosystem recovery (response diversity) was assessed using species counts and functional dispersion (FDis) using 12 response traits. The effect of land‐use gradients was unpredictable, whilst there was a negative response in bothFRandFDis to shading and positive responses to increases in emergent vegetation cover and surface area. An inconsistent association betweenFDis andFRsuggested that arguments for taxonomic biodiversity conservation to augment ecosystem functioning are too simplistic. Thus, a deeper understanding of the response of functional diversity to disturbance could have greater impact with decision‐makers who may relate better to the loss of ecosystem function in response to environmental degradation than species loss alone.
The impacts of four potential bioenergy crops on soil carbon dynamics as shown by biomarker analyses and DRIFT spectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Xuefeng , Liang Chao , Masters Michael D. , Kantola Ilsa B. , DeLucia Evan H.
Published: April 2018

Perennial bioenergy crops accumulate carbon (C) in soils through minimally disturbing management practices and large root inputs, but the mechanisms of microbial control over C dynamics under bioenergy crops have not been clarified. Root‐derived C inputs affect both soil microbial contribution to and degradation of soil organic matter resulting in differing soil organic carbon (SOC) concentrations, storage, and stabilities under different vegetation regimes. Here, we measured biomarker amino sugars and neutral sugars and used diffuse reflectance mid‐infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) to explore microbial C contributions, degradation ability, and SOC stability, respectively, under four potential bioenergy crops, M.×giganteus (Miscanthus × giganteus), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.), a mixed prairie, and a maize (Zea mays L.)–maize–soybean (Glycine max(L.) Merr.) (MMS) rotation over six growing seasons. Our results showed that SOC concentration (g/kg) increased by 10.6% in mixed prairie over the duration of this experiment and SOC storage (Mg/ha) increased by 17.0% and 15.6% in switchgrass and mixed prairie, respectively. Conversion of row crops to perennial grasses maintained SOC stability and increased bacterial residue contribution to SOC in M.×giganteus and switchgrass by 20.0% and 15.0%, respectively, after 6 years. Degradation of microbe‐derived labile SOC was increased in M.×giganteus, and degradation of both labile and stable SOC increased in MMS rotation. These results demonstrate that microbial communities under perennial grasses maintained SOC quality, while SOC quantity increased under switchgrass and mixed prairie. Annual MMS rotation displayed decreases in aspects of SOC quality without changes in SOC quantity. These findings have implications for understanding microbial control over soil C quantity and quality under land‐use shift from annual to perennial bioenergy cropping systems.
Global Markets and the Role of Geographical Proximity in Mexico's Employment Growth
Authors: Flores Miguel , Medellín Sandra , Villarreal Amado
Published: April 2018

In the context of greater economic integration with global markets and structural economic reforms, this paper analyses regional and sectoral employment growth dynamics in Mexican states between 2004 and 2014. The methodology is based on spatial shift‐share analysis that explicitly considers interregional interactions in employment while assessing potential spillover effects arising from spatial interactions among states and industrial sectors. The results suggest a competitive effect from some industries—such as those related to science and specialized suppliers, intensive scale industries and dominated providers—which led to the formation of industrial corridors of neighboring states that connect the central region with the northeast region of the country. It was also found that proximity to states such as Nuevo Leon, Queretaro, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi, and Puebla has positively influenced neighboring states in terms of employment growth rates. The results also support the argument of some sort of de‐concentration of economic activity in the capital, Mexico City, toward neighboring states.
Effect of surrounding polydimethylsiloxane frame and substrate on drying behavior of aqueous alumina suspensions
Authors: Jiao Lanqing , Su Bo , Meng Junhu , Han Jiesheng , Wang Honggang
Published: April 2018

The drying behavior of aqueous alumina suspensions surrounded with and without polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) frames was studied. The capillary stress generated in the bodies was measured in situ using a cantilever deflection method. The relationship between the capillary stress and the formation of cracks was discussed. Compared with the suspensions dried without surrounding PDMS frames, the drying rates of the suspensions were significantly decreased by the surrounding PDMS frames. By drying a suspension on a strong hydrophilic substrate, the PDMS frame hardly reduced the capillary stress. When drying the suspension on a hydrophobic or weak hydrophilic substrate, the elastic deformation of thick PDMS frames could effectively release the capillary stress and therefore crack‐free ceramic green bodies could be obtained.
Attitudes towards sales and use of over-the-counter drugs in Sweden in a reregulated pharmacy market: a population-based study
Authors: Hedenrud Tove , Andersson Sundell Karolina , Martinsson Johan , Håkonsen Helle
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To analyse attitudes towards sales and use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in the Swedish adult population.

Methods

Data were collected through the web-based Citizen Panel comprising 21 000 Swedes. A stratified sample of 4058 participants was emailed a survey invitation. Questions concerned use of OTC drugs, and attitudes towards sales and use of OTC drugs. Correlations between the attitudinal statements were assessed using Spearman’s rank correlation. Associations between attitudes and participant characteristics were analysed using multinomial logistic regression.

Key findings

Participation rate was 64%. Altogether 87% reported use of OTC drugs in the last 6 months. Approximately 10% of participants stated that they used OTC drugs at the first sign of illness, and 9% stated that they used more OTC drugs compared with previously, due to increased availability. The statement on use of OTC drugs at first sign of illness correlated with the statement about using more OTC drugs with increased availability. Socio-demographic factors (age, sex and education) and frequent use of OTC drugs were associated with attitudes to sales and use of OTC drugs.

Conclusions

Increased use due to greater availability, in combination with OTC drug use at first sign of illness illustrates the need for continuous education of the population about self-care with OTC drugs. Increased awareness of the incautious views on OTC drugs in part of the population is important. Swedish policy-makers may use such knowledge in their continuous evaluation of the 2009 pharmacy reform to review the impact of sales of OTC drugs in retail outlets on patient safety and public health. Pharmacy and healthcare staff could be more proactive in asking customers and patients about their use of OTC drugs and offering them advice.
Evolution of porous YSZ surface morphology in YSZ‐MnOx system
Authors: Li Na , Asadikiya Mohammad , Zhong Yu , Singh Prabhakar
Published: April 2018

A unique porous YSZ surface morphology is observed and reported, for the first time, during the sintering of YSZ‐MnO2 composite. The porous YSZ morphology largely depends on YSZ/MnO2 ratio and sintering temperature, time, and atmosphere. The structural evolution is hypothesized to be due to the presence of Mn especially related to Mn diffusion, dissolution, precipitation, and evaporation. A series of experiments were designed and conducted to investigate the porous morphology formation with emphasis on performing quench experiments that showed the initiation of porous surface evolution during cooling. Computational thermodynamics has been applied to investigate the role of Mn on the surface porosity formation.
Beyond jam sandwiches and cups of tea: An exploration of primary pupils' algorithm‐evaluation strategies
Authors: Benton L. , Kalas I. , Saunders P. , Hoyles C. , Noss R.
Published: April 2018

The long‐standing debate into the potential benefit of developing mathematical thinking skills through learning to program has been reignited with the widespread introduction of programming in schools across many countries, including England where it is a statutory requirement for all pupils to be taught programming from 5 years old. Algorithm is introduced early in the English computing curriculum, yet there is limited knowledge of how young pupils view this concept. This paper explores pupils' (aged 10–11) understandings of algorithm following their engagement with 1 year of ScratchMaths, a curriculum designed to develop computational and mathematical thinking skills through learning to program. A total of 181 pupils from 6 schools undertook a set of written tasks to assess their interpretations and evaluations of different algorithms that solve the same problem, with a subset of these pupils subsequently interviewed to probe their understandings in greater depth. We discuss the different approaches identified, the evaluation criteria they used, and the aspects of the concept that pupils found intuitive or challenging, such as simplification and abstraction. The paper ends with some reflections on the implications of the research, concluding with a set of recommendations for pedagogy in developing primary pupils' algorithmic thinking.
A randomized waitlist‐controlled trial of cognitive behavior therapy to improve emotion regulation in children with autism
Authors: Weiss Jonathan A. , Thomson Kendra , Burnham Riosa Priscilla , Albaum Carly , Chan Victoria , Maughan Andrea , Tablon Paula , Black Karen
Published: April 2018

Background

Mental health problems are common among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and difficulties with emotion regulation processes may underlie these issues. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is considered an efficacious treatment for anxiety in children with ASD. Additional research is needed to examine the efficacy of a transdiagnostic treatment approach, whereby the same treatment can be applied to multiple emotional problems, beyond solely anxiety. The purpose of the present study was to examine the efficacy of a manualized and individually delivered 10‐session, transdiagnostic CBT intervention, aimed at improving emotion regulation and mental health difficulties in children with ASD.

Methods

Sixty‐eight children (M age = 9.75, SD = 1.27) and their parents participated in the study, randomly allocated to either a treatment immediate (n = 35) or waitlist control condition (n = 33) (ISRCTN #67079741). Parent‐, child‐, and clinician‐reported measures of emotion regulation and mental health were administered at baseline, postintervention/postwaitlist, and at 10‐week follow‐up.

Results

Children in the treatment immediate condition demonstrated significant improvements on measures of emotion regulation (i.e., emotionality, emotion regulation abilities with social skills) and aspects of psychopathology (i.e., a composite measure of internalizing and externalizing symptoms, adaptive behaviors) compared to those in the waitlist control condition. Treatment gains were maintained at follow‐up.

Conclusions

This study is the first transdiagnostic CBT efficacy trial for children with ASD. Additional investigations are needed to further establish its relative efficacy compared to more traditional models of CBT for children with ASD and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
Nosotros Decimos Ma’: La Lucha Contra la Soya Transgénica y La Rearticulación de la Identidad Maya en la Península de Yucatán1
Authors: Torres‐Mazuera Gabriela
Published: April 2018

La lucha política y legal contra la soya genéticamente modificada en la Península de Yucatán, iniciada en 2012, ha conllevado una rearticulación de la identidad maya en las comunidades afectadas por este cultivo. El objetivo de este trabajo es describir cómo surge y se define como problemática social el cultivo de la soya transgénica y explicar por qué la lucha de un grupo de apicultores mayas contra este tipo de cultivo se convirtió en una lucha legal por los derechos indígenas de las comunidades mayas. A partir de investigación etnográfica, me propongo analizar los encuadres “cientificistas” y jurídicos del conflicto que hacen autoridades del gobierno, así como la resistencia de diversos actores para quienes la discusión sobre la soya transgénica trasciende los riesgos a la salud humana y supone, sobre todo, un debate en torno al tipo de desarrollo agropecuario más adecuado para las comunidades mayas. [México, pueblos indígenas, agroindustria, movimientos sociales, derechos humanas, Maya, OGM]
Clinical spectrum and quality of life in patients with chronic polyneuropathy: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Panduranga MS , Vibha Deepti , Prasad Kameshwar , Srivastava Achal Kumar , Shukla Garima
Published: April 2018

Chronic polyneuropathy is a disabling condition of the peripheral nerves, characterized by symmetrical sensory motor symptoms and signs. There is paucity of studies on the etiological spectrum of polyneuropathy and its impact on quality of life (QoL). The present cross‐sectional study in a referral based tertiary care center in North India found diabetic neuropathy as the commonest cause (25.5%) amongst 212 patients with chronic polyneuropathy. Idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy was present in 14.2% patients. Leprosy presenting as confluent mononeuritis multiplex constituted 11.3% of the patients. Additionally, it revealed a significantly worse QoL in these patients in all domains measured by short form (SF‐36). This is the first study conducted in India to determine the QoL in chronic neuropathy patients. The current study demonstrates the clinical feasibility and applicability of the SF‐36 generic health status in patients with polyneuropathies.
Comparative PCR analyses for the detection of the Cape St. Paul wilt disease phytoplasma in coconut palms in Ghana
Authors: Obeng‐Darko Sylvester A. , Quaicoe Robert N , Yankey Egya N. , Twumasi Peter
Published: April 2018

Cape St. Paul Wilt Disease (CSPWD), the Ghanaian form of the lethal yellowing‐type diseases associated with phytoplasmas, is yet the major factor affecting the coconut industry in Ghana since 1932. Recently, a PCR assay based on a non‐ribosomal gene sequence was developed for the detection of the CSPWD phytoplasma in the West Region. Our study aimed at comparing the performance of the non‐ribosomal PCR to existing ribosomal PCRs and determine the best assay to use for the detection of the CSPWD phytoplasma within the three major coconut‐growing regions: Central, Western and Volta and in palms at different ages and disease stages. To determine the most affected region, 163 CSPWD‐affected coconut palms from 32 locations from the Central, Western and Volta Regions were randomly sampled. The analysis of the presence of the CSPWD phytoplasma in coconut palms of different ages showed that palms within the age brackets (1–10), (11–20) and (61–70) years were the most affected by CSPWD. The disease was most widespread in the Central, followed by the Western, then the Volta Region. A Euclidean similarity analysis of the infection rate across palm ages revealed three distinct clusters at a linkage distance of 6.5. The PCR assay based on the secA gene sequence yielded the highest number of coconut palms positive for the CSPWD phytoplasma compared to PCR assays targeting phytoplasma ribosomal genes. These results report an update on the detection of the CSPWD phytoplasma in the CSPWD‐affected coconut regions and across coconut palms representing different ages and disease stages and provide valuable information to support the CSPWD management in Ghana.
Gingival crevicular fluid levels of human beta‐defensin 1 in individuals with and without chronic periodontitis
Authors: Costa L. C. M. , Soldati K. R. , Fonseca D. C. , Costa J. E. , Abreu M. H. N. G. , Costa F. O. , Zandim‐Barcelos D. L. , Cota L. O. M.
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective

Human beta‐defensins (hBDs) contribute to innate immunity antimicrobial activity. They are also effective in the adaptive immune response and may play a crucial role in the susceptibility to diseases of the oral cavity. This study aimed to evaluate the levels of hBD‐1 in the gingival crevicular fluid of individuals with and without chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Twenty periodontally healthy individuals (H) and 20 individuals with chronic periodontitis were recruited. Gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected from: healthy sites (Hh) from periodontally healthy individuals; and healthy sites (Ph), sites with gingivitis (Pg), and sites with periodontitis (Pp) from individuals with periodontitis. The levels of hBD‐1 (pg/mL) were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Comparisons of hBD‐1 between individuals (H and chronic periodontitis) and among sites (Hh, Ph, Pg, Pp) were performed through hierarchical linear modeling.

Results

Gingival crevicular fluid levels of hBD‐1 were: Hh = 229.52 ± 138.96 (median 199.26), Ph = 53.88 ± 58.17 (median 35.75), Pg = 57.11 ± 40.18 (median 39.90) and Pp = 55.31 ± 37.28 (median 54.19). No influence of site diagnosis (level 1; health/gingivitis/periodontitis) was observed; however, individual diagnosis (level 2; health/periodontitis) influenced the levels of hBD‐1 (P < .001).

Conclusion

Periodontally healthy individuals showed higher gingival crevicular fluid levels of hBD‐1 when compared to individuals with chronic periodontitis. This suggests a potential protective role of hBD‐1 in the susceptibility to chronic periodontitis.
Ex vivo binding of the immunosuppressant mycophenolic acid to dog and cat plasma proteins and the effect of co‐incubated dexamethasone and prednisolone
Authors: Morassi A. , Rivera-Vélez S. M. , Slovak J. E. , Court M. H. , Villarino N. F.
Published: April 2018

Mycophenolic acid (MPA) has been shown to be promising for the treatment of autoimmune diseases in dogs and cats. In humans, MPA is highly bound to plasma proteins (~97%). It has been recommended to monitor free drug plasma concentrations because the free MPA correlates with its immunosuppressive effect. However, it is unknown if MPA is highly bound to plasma proteins in dogs and cats. The objectives of this study were to determine the extent of plasma protein binding of MPA and evaluate the effect of prednisolone and dexamethasone on the extent of protein binding of MPA in dogs and cats. The extent of plasma protein binding of MPA was determined in plasma collected from clinically healthy adult cats (n = 13) and dogs (n = 14) by combining high‐throughput dialysis and ultra‐high‐liquid chromatography. This study reveals that MPA is highly bound to plasma proteins (>90%) in dogs and cats, mean extent of binding of MPA at 15 μg/ml to plasma proteins being 96% (range, 95%–97%) and 92% (range, 90%–93%) for dogs and cats, respectively. In dog plasma, MPA is primarily bound to albumin. In vitro, prednisolone increased the unbound MPA in dogs (p < .01) but not in cats (p = .07) while dexamethasone had no effect on MPA plasma binding in either species (p > .05). Results of this study provide valuable information for designing future pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies and also therapeutic monitoring programs for dogs and cats.
Altered structural and functional connectivity of the insula in functional dyspepsia
Authors: Liu P. , Fan Y. , Wei Y. , Zeng F. , Li R. , Fei N. , Qin W.
Published: April 2018

Background

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a common functional gastrointestinal disease. Neuroimaging studies have identified that insula is involved in the pathogenesis of FD. However, less is known about structural and functional connectivity of insula in FD.

Methods

In this study, 67 FD patients and 46 healthy controls (HCs) underwent structural MRI, resting‐state functional MRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scans, and clinical assessment. We used the 3 neuroimaging modalities to investigate structural and functional connectivity of insula between FD patients and HCs, and we examined relationships between the neuroimaging findings and clinical symptoms.

Key Results

Compared with HCs, (i) FD patients had decreased gray matter density in right insula according to voxel‐based morphometry method, which region was targeted as region of interest for further analysis of structural and functional connectivity; (ii) FD patients had lower connection probability in right anterior insula with right thalamus, right internal capsule (IC), and right external capsule (EC); (iii) FD patients had decreased functional connectivity of the right anterior insula with right thalamus and right pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pACC); and (iv) FD patients had negative correlation between disease duration and the functional connectivity of right anterior insula with thalamus.

Conclusions and Inferences

The present findings reveal that alterations of structural and/or functional connectivity of right anterior insula with regions, including thalamus, IC, EC, and pACC, may be mainly implicated in abnormalities of visceral sensory processing and related affective responses in FD patients. Finally, this study could enhance understanding of the pathophysiology of FD.
Higher prevalence of joint hypermobility in constipation predominant irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Zweig A. , Schindler V. , Becker A. S. , van Maren A. , Pohl D.
Published: April 2018

Background

Joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) is characterized by excessive connective tissue laxity manifest as joint hypermobility (JH) together with musculoskeletal symptoms. Previous studies have shown an association between JH/JHS and gastrointestinal symptoms, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although its association with specific IBS subtypes is incompletely understood. We aimed to determine the prevalence of JH according to the subtypes of IBS, in particular IBS‐C and IBS‐D.

Methods

Data of 228 consecutive IBS patients were analyzed. IBS was subtyped into constipation and diarrhea predominant IBS (IBS‐C and IBS‐D), IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS‐M) and unsubtyped IBS (IBS‐U). JH was defined as a Beighton Score ≥4/9 points and JHS diagnosed according to revised Brighton Criteria. Data of IBS patients were analyzed for psychological comorbidities assessed by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Visceral Sensitivity Index (VSI).

Key Results

Of 228 IBS patients, 64 (28.1%) suffered from IBS‐C, 89 (39.0%) from IBS‐D, 48 (21.1%) from IBS‐M, and 27 (11.8%) from IBS‐U. JH was diagnosed in 95 patients (41.7%). The prevalence of JH was significantly higher in IBS‐C than IBS‐D (57.8% vs 34.8%, P = .031). There was no significant difference in VSI and HADS according to JH or IBS subtype.

Conclusions and Interferences

The prevalence of JH was significantly higher in IBS‐C compared to IBS‐D. Abnormalities in the connective tissue biomechanics in those with JH may contribute to a degree of colonic inertia which could result in constipation in JH‐positive IBS patients. Further work is needed to determine the colonic biomechanics in patients with JH.
Inferring pathogen dynamics from temporal count data: the emergence of Xylella fastidiosa in France is probably not recent
Authors: Soubeyrand Samuel , de Jerphanion Pauline , Martin Olivier , Saussac Mathilde , Manceau Charles , Hendrikx Pascal , Lannou Christian
Published: April 2018

Unravelling the ecological structure of emerging plant pathogens persisting in multi‐host systems is challenging. In such systems, observations are often heterogeneous with respect to time, space and host species, and may lead to biases of perception. The biased perception of pathogen ecology may be exacerbated by hidden fractions of the whole host population, which may act as infection reservoirs.

We designed a mechanistic‐statistical approach to help understand the ecology of emerging pathogens by filtering out some biases of perception. This approach, based on SIR (Susceptible–Infected–Removed) models and a Bayesian framework, disentangles epidemiological and observational processes underlying temporal counting data.

We applied our approach to French surveillance data on Xylella fastidiosa, a multi‐host pathogenic bacterium recently discovered in Corsica, France. A model selection led to two diverging scenarios: one scenario without a hidden compartment and an introduction around 2001, and the other with a hidden compartment and an introduction around 1985.

Thus, Xylella fastidiosa was probably introduced into Corsica much earlier than its discovery, and its control could be arduous under the hidden compartment scenario. From a methodological perspective, our approach provides insights into the dynamics of emerging plant pathogens and, in particular, the potential existence of infection reservoirs.
Exosomal biomarkers in oral diseases
Authors: Hadavand Mohammad , Hasni Sarfaraz
Published: April 2018

Exosomes have emerged as novel nanovesicles that facilitate intracellular communication. The molecular content of exosomes is specific to their cell type of origin and reflective of the cells physiological status. Combined with their stability and accessibility in a variety of biofluids, exosomes may be used as biomarkers in a variety of diseases. Recent evidence suggests that exosomes have immunomodulatory functions that play a role in the severity and development of autoimmune disorders and cancers. This article focuses on the biomarker and therapeutic potential of exosomes for oral manifestation of autoimmune diseases and head and neck cancers.
The growth effects of stabilisation funds and fiscal rules in oil‐rich African economies: empirical evidence and development policy implications from a Nigerian case study
Authors: Ibironke Adesola
Published: April 2018

This paper empirically examines the growth effects of stabilisation funds and fiscal rules in oil‐rich African countries, using Nigeria as a case study. The analysis captures the ‘international standard’ of the two fiscal instruments by empirically comparing the effects of Nigerian instruments with those of non‐African oil‐exporting countries (i.e. Norway and Mexico). The results show that the fiscal instruments are effective in Nigeria and that the effectiveness is comparable to that of non‐African economies, implying that the Nigerian instruments meet ‘international standard’. The paper also discusses the development policy implications of the results, one of which is that the fiscal instruments can be used to control risky behaviours of economic agents in oil‐rich African economies. For example, since the instruments are effective in increasing growth (i.e. real GDP growth) and limiting its volatility, they can be employed to control increases in demand for and supply of risky sex caused by increases in real per capita income during oil booms.
Big Data: a big opportunity for the petroleum and petrochemical industry
Authors: Hassani Hossein , Silva Emmanuel Sirimal
Published: April 2018

The Petroleum and Petrochemical (P&P) industry is home to the most traded commodity in the world, i.e. oil. Recently, this industry has been struggling to make ends meet with top lines being affected by falling oil prices and bottom lines being squeezed further via increasing operational costs. It is against this backdrop that this paper seeks to identify and summarise the positive influence that the adoption of Big Data can have on the P&P industry. Exhaustive research is carried out on the industry's engagement and adoption of Big Data in upstream, midstream and downstream operations to concisely summarise the varied applications and the potential benefits. Our research indicates that the upstream sector is actively engaging with Big Data to achieve efficiency gains while the midstream and downstream sectors are lagging behind. Overall, it is evident that the P&P industry can find solutions to its aching financial and productivity issues by embracing of Big Data.
Long‐term effect of early nutrition on endocrine parameters and liver and endometrial gene expression of the members of the somatotrophic axis in Hereford heifers
Authors: Guggeri D , Meikle A , Carriquiry M , De Barbieri I , Montossi F , Viñoles C
Published: April 2018

Contents

This study compared the effect of different management systems on endocrine parameters, and gene expression of members of the somatotrophic axis in the liver and endometrium of beef heifers. Twenty‐two 709‐days‐old heifers submitted to Early Weaning (EW, n = 8), Traditional Weaning (TW, n = 7) and TW plus creep feeding (TW+CF, n = 7) were used. Animals were synchronized with two prostaglandin (PG) injections at 11‐day interval (Oestrus = Day 0). Blood samples were collected daily for progesterone (P4) determination, and endometrial and liver biopsies on Days 7 and 16 for transcript determination of members of the somatotrophic axis. Progesterone concentrations were greater on Days 15 and 16 (p < .02) of the cycle in TW+CF than TW and EW heifers. On Day 7, TW+CF heifers expressed greater liver total growth hormone receptor transcripts than TW heifers (p = .05) and greater insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐binding protein 3 mRNA than both EW and TW groups (p < .05). On Days 7 and 16, TW+CF expressed more endometrial IGF1 mRNA than the other groups (p < .01). We conclude that increasing the plane of nutrition of nursing calves may have a long‐term effect on the functioning of the somatotrophic axis both in the liver and in the endometrium.