bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Number Line in the Preliterate Brain: The Role of Early Directional Experiences
Authors: Patro Katarzyna , Nuerk Hans‐Christoph , Cress Ulrike
Published: April 2016

Numbers and space are strongly related in the human mind. In particular, small and large numbers are mentally linked to spatial directions, forming the so‐called mental number line. Traditionally, the direction of the number line was thought to emerge from cultural spatial experience with reading and writing. In this article, we review recent developmental data that put constraints on this traditional account and suggest that directional number representation develops even before the acquisition of literacy. On the basis of these data, we argue that the link between numbers and space is triggered by systematic involvement in directional actions of any kind rather than by reading and writing per se. Before school begins, children are exposed to many directional cues by observing the world around them and interacting with their parents. We propose a hypothetical mechanism through which this preliterate experience might activate spatially oriented numerical representation.
Effects of Culture and the Urban Environment on the Development of the Ebbinghaus Illusion
Authors: Bremner Andrew J. , Doherty Martin J. , Caparos Serge , de Fockert Jan , Linnell Karina J. , Davidoff Jules
Published: April 2016

The development of visual context effects in the Ebbinghaus illusion in the United Kingdom and in remote and urban Namibians (UN) was investigated (N = 336). Remote traditional Himba children showed no illusion up until 9–10 years, whereas UK children showed a robust illusion from 7 to 8 years of age. Greater illusion in UK than in traditional Himba children was stable from 9 to 10 years to adulthood. A lesser illusion was seen in remote traditional Himba children than in UN children growing up in the nearest town to the traditional Himba villages across age groups. We conclude that cross‐cultural differences in perceptual biases to process visual context emerge in early childhood and are influenced by the urban environment.
Learning Mathematics in a Visuospatial Format: A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Mental Abacus Instruction
Authors: Barner David , Alvarez George , Sullivan Jessica , Brooks Neon , Srinivasan Mahesh , Frank Michael C.
Published: April 2016

Mental abacus (MA) is a technique of performing fast, accurate arithmetic using a mental image of an abacus; experts exhibit astonishing calculation abilities. Over 3 years, 204 elementary school students (age range at outset: 5–7 years old) participated in a randomized, controlled trial to test whether MA expertise (a) can be acquired in standard classroom settings, (b) improves students' mathematical abilities (beyond standard math curricula), and (c) is related to changes in basic cognitive capacities like working memory. MA students outperformed controls on arithmetic tasks, suggesting that MA expertise can be achieved by children in standard classrooms. MA training did not alter basic cognitive abilities; instead, differences in spatial working memory at the beginning of the study mediated MA learning.
Effector memory CD4+ T cells differentially express activation associated molecules depending on the duration of American cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions
Authors: de Oliveira Mendes-Aguiar C , Vieira-Gonçalves R , Guimarães L H , de Oliveira-Neto M P , Carvalho E M , Da-Cruz A M
Published: April 2016

A high number of Leishmania-responder T cells is found in cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions, suggesting that important immunological events occur at the site of infection. Although activated, cytotoxic and regulatory T cells infiltrating into lesions may influence disease pathogenesis, the role of the T cell differentiation pattern of lymphocytes in lesions is unknown. Our aim was to investigate whether the phase of lesion development (early or late) is influenced by the functional status of cells present in inflammatory infiltrate. Activation, cytotoxity and T cell differentiation molecules were evaluated in lesion mononuclear cells by flow cytometry. The frequency of T cells was correlated with the lesion area (r = 0·68; P = 0·020). CD4+CD25+ T cells predominated over CD4+CD69+ T cells in early lesions (less than 30 days), whereas late lesions (more than 60 days) exhibited more CD4+CD69+ T cells than CD4+CD25+ T cells. The duration of illness was correlated positively with CD4+CD69+ (r = 0·68; P = 0·005) and negatively with CD4+CD25+ T cells (r = −0·45; P = 0·046). Most CD8+ T cells expressed cytotoxic-associated molecules (CD244+), and the percentages were correlated with the lesion area (r = 0·52; P = 0·04). Both CD4+ and CD8+ effector memory T cells (TEM-CD45RO+CCR7–) predominated in CL lesions and were significantly higher than central memory (TCM-CD45RO+CCR7+) or naive T cells (CD45RO–CCR7+). An enrichment of TEM cells and contraction of naive T cells were observed in lesions in comparison to blood (P = 0·006) for both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Lesion chronicity is associated with a shift in activation phenotype. The enrichment of TEM and activated cytotoxic cells can contribute to immune-mediated tissue damage.
Scalp hair 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione as a long‐term therapy monitoring tool in congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Noppe Gerard , de Rijke Yolanda B. , Koper Jan W. , van Rossum Elisabeth F.C. , van den Akker Erica L.T.
Published: April 2016

Background

Glucocorticoid replacement therapy in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is challenging, especially in children, because both over‐ and under‐dosing may have profound and long‐lasting adverse effects. Clinical follow‐up parameters are largely nonspecific and slow to develop. Steroid concentrations in scalp hair may be a useful monitoring tool, as it provides information on both long‐term steroid precursor and glucocorticoid exposure.

Aim

We aimed to evaluate scalp hair steroid precursor concentrations as a monitoring tool for treatment follow‐up in children with CAH.

Methods

Scalp hair 17‐hydroxyprogesterone (17‐OHP) and androstenedione concentrations, measured by LC‐MS/MS, of children with CAH (N = 26) were correlated with concentrations in serum and saliva, and compared to scalp hair concentrations in patient controls with adrenal insufficiency (AI) (N = 12) and healthy controls (N = 293).

Results

Hair cortisol concentrations were higher in children with CAH, compared to both healthy controls (P < 0·001) and patient controls (P = 0·05), and did not differ significantly between patient controls with AI and healthy controls. Concentrations of androstenedione in scalp hair were strongly correlated with concentrations in serum (ρ = 0·72, P < 0·001) and saliva (ρ = 0·82, P = 0·002). This was also seen for 17‐OHP in hair with serum (ρ = 0·94, P < 0·001) and saliva (ρ = 0·69, P = 0·009). Both hair 17‐OHP and androstenedione were higher in CAH patients (mean concentration 17‐OHP 2·9 pg/mg; androstenedione 1·3 pg/mg), when compared to healthy controls (17‐OHP 0·44 pg/mg; androstenedione 0·65 pg/mg) and when compared to patients with AI (17‐OHP 0·12 pg/mg; androstenedione 0·32 pg/mg).

Conclusion

This study shows that scalp hair 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione concentrations seem to be a promising parameter for treatment monitoring in patients with CAH.
‘It's awkward stuff’: conversations about sexuality with young children
Authors: Christensen M. Candace , Wright Rachel , Dunn Jodi
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore how parents navigate sex‐related concepts with their young children. This study used feminist phenomenological research methods for data gathering and analysis. Social development theory and a positive sexuality framework were also used in the study design. The participants included 13 parents (mothers and fathers) of at least one child aged 3–11 years old. The researchers performed semi‐structured, individual interviews and data analysis included developing themes that illustrated the essence of parent understandings about the phenomenon. Two themes emerged from the data analysis: it's awkward stuff and my parents never talked with me. The findings illustrated the relationship between the parents' perceptions and social development theory and a positive sexuality framework. Feminist analysis revealed gender differences in how mothers and fathers approached sex‐related discussions with their children. Implications for practice, policy and research were included.
Rett‐like phenotypes: expanding the genetic heterogeneity to the KCNA2 gene and first familial case of CDKL5‐related disease
Authors: Allou L. , Julia S. , Amsallem D. , El Chehadeh S. , Lambert L. , Thevenon J. , Duffourd Y. , Saunier A. , Bouquet P. , Pere S. , Moustaïne A. , Ruaud L. , Roth V. , Jonveaux P. , Philippe C.
Published: April 2016

Several genes have been implicated in Rett syndrome (RTT) in its typical and variant forms. We applied next‐generation sequencing (NGS) to evaluate for mutations in known or new candidate genes in patients with variant forms of Rett or Rett‐like phenotypes of unknown molecular aetiology. In the first step, we used NGS with a custom panel including MECP2, CDKL5, FOXG1, MEF2C and IQSEC2. In addition to a FOXG1 mutation in a patient with all core features of the congenital variant of RTT, we identified a missense (p.Ser240Thr) in CDKL5 in a patient who appeared to be seizure free. This missense was maternally inherited with opposite allele expression ratios in the proband and her mother. In the asymptomatic mother, the mutated copy of the CDKL5 gene was inactivated in 90% of blood cells. We also identified a premature stop codon (p.Arg926*) in IQSEC2 in a patient with a Rett‐like phenotype. Finally, exome sequencing enabled us to characterize a heterozygous de novo missense (p.Val408Ala) in KCNA2 encoding the potassium channel Kv 1.2 in a girl with infantile‐onset seizures variant of RTT. Our study expands the genetic heterogeneity of RTT and RTT‐like phenotypes. Moreover, we report the first familial case of CDKL5‐related disease.
Long‐Term Outcomes of Early Loading of Straumann Implant‐Supported Fixed Segmented Bridgeworks in Edentulous Maxillae: A 10‐Year Prospective Study
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Xiao , Shi Jun‐Yu , Gu Ying‐Xin , Lai Hong‐Chang
Published: April 2016

Background

There have been few studies investigating the long‐term outcome of early‐loaded implants with segmented bridgeworks on fully edentulous maxillae.

Purpose

To evaluate the long‐term predictability of early‐loaded Straumann implant‐supported fixed segmented bridgeworks in edentulous maxillae.

Material and Methods

Ninety‐one implants were placed in 12 patients with edentulous maxillae. After a healing period of 6 weeks, the abutments were tightened followed by cementing of fixed full‐arch prostheses. The patients were recalled after 1, 3, 5, and 10 years of loading for clinical evaluation. Implant success rate, peri‐implant soft tissue condition, technical complications, marginal bone loss and patients’ satisfaction was assessed.

Results

Eleven of the 12 patients attended the 10‐year follow‐up. Two implants were lost. The implant success rate was 97.6% at implant level and 81.8% at patient level. The mean marginal bone loss was found to be 0.41 ± 0.55mm, 0.53 ± 0.43mm, 0.68 ± 0.76 mm and 1.01 ± 0.85 mm at the 1, 3, 5, and 10‐year follow‐up respectively. None of the 11 patients showed a modified plaque index (mPLI) or modified bleeding index (mBI) of 3. Only one patient was found to have pocket probing depth (PPD) exceeding 3 mm. Peri‐implantitis was found around one of the implants in a patient after 4 years of loading. The success rate of prostheses was 55.3% at prosthesis level and 27.3% at patient level. The most common technical complication of the prostheses was chipping of the ceramic veneer. Damaged veneers were observed in five patients. Other complications were loss of retention and abutment loosening.

Conclusion

Early loading of Straumann SLA implants for support of full‐arch segmented bridgeworks represents a viable therapy for the fully edentulous maxillae in the long term. High success rate of implants, acceptable peri‐implant soft tissue condition and excellent patient satisfaction can be achieved, while technical complications of prostheses are common.
Contact sensitization in prurigo patients
Authors: Weisshaar Elke , Molin Sonja , Darsow Ulf , Geier Johannes
Published: April 2016

Background

There are no studies on contact allergy in patients with prurigo. With itch being important in the pathophysiology of prurigo diseases and being a symptom of allergic contact dermatitis, we aimed to investigate contact allergy in patients suffering from prurigo.

Objectives

Exploratory analysis of patch test results in prurigo patients.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology, 2005–2014, was performed.

Results

Of 116 744 patch tested patients, 639 (0.55%) were diagnosed with prurigo. The median age was 61 years, 286 (45%) were pensioners, and 252 (39.5%) had generalized prurigo. The indication for patch testing was exclusion of contact allergy in 412 patients (64.5%), and 223 patients (35%) had at least one positive patch test reaction. There was no distinctive pattern of sensitization. Prurigo patients had significantly more (and stronger) reactions to the irritant control patch test with sodium lauryl sulfate than a control group (27.6% versus 21.0%).

Conclusions

Although prurigo is not a typical clinical manifestation of contact sensitization, our results indicate that patch testing in these patients may be helpful.
The Cultural Evolution of Structured Languages in an Open‐Ended, Continuous World
Authors: Carr Jon W. , Smith Kenny , Cornish Hannah , Kirby Simon
Published: April 2016

Language maps signals onto meanings through the use of two distinct types of structure. First, the space of meanings is discretized into categories that are shared by all users of the language. Second, the signals employed by the language are compositional: The meaning of the whole is a function of its parts and the way in which those parts are combined. In three iterated learning experiments using a vast, continuous, open‐ended meaning space, we explore the conditions under which both structured categories and structured signals emerge ex nihilo. While previous experiments have been limited to either categorical structure in meanings or compositional structure in signals, these experiments demonstrate that when the meaning space lacks clear preexisting boundaries, more subtle morphological structure that lacks straightforward compositionality—as found in natural languages—may evolve as a solution to joint pressures from learning and communication.
Hemodynamic responses to mental stress during salt loading
Authors: Gefke Maria , Christensen Niels Juel , Bech Per , Frandsen Erik , Damgaard Morten , Asmar Ali , Norsk Peter
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose was to examine whether prolonged moderate stress associated with a student exam would increase the blood pressure response to a salt load in young healthy normotensive individuals.

Methods

Ten healthy young subjects were examined at two different occasions in random order (i) during preparation for a medical exam (prolonged stress) and (ii) outside the exam period (low stress). All subjects consumed a controlled diet for 3 days with low‐ or high‐salt content in randomized order. The subjective stress was measured by Spielberger's State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory‐Scale, SCL Symptom Checklist for stress and the Visual Analogue Scale. On each level of stress, 24‐h ambulatory blood pressure and cardiac output (CO) were measured. Furthermore, plasma norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E) and plasma renin activity (PRA) were measured.

Results

Twenty‐four‐hour ABP, 24‐h heart rate, CO as well as plasma levels of NE, E and PRA remained unchanged by changes in stress level. Day–night reduction in SAP was significantly larger during moderate stress and high‐salt intake; however, no significant difference was observed during daytime and night‐time. Individual increase in mental stress correlated significantly with an individual decrease in PRA (SCL‐17, r = −0·80, P<0·05, STAIr = −0·64 P<0·05) during high‐salt intake.

Conclusion

Moderate stress over a period of time in young healthy normotensive individuals does not lead to changes in 24‐h ABP. However, the augmented reduction in day‐to‐night systolic blood pressure during high‐salt intake and moderate stress may indicate that stress affects blood pressure regulation.
Electrical impedance tomography as possible guidance for individual positioning of patients with multiple lung injury
Authors: Lehmann Sylvia , Leonhardt Steffen , Ngo Chuong , Bergmann Lukas , Schrading Simone , Heimann Konrad , Wagner Norbert , Tenbrock Klaus
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is a tomographic, radiation‐free technique based on the injection of a harmless alternating current.

Objective

As electrical impedance strictly correlates with the variation of air content, EIT delivers highly dynamic information about global and regional ventilation. We want to demonstrate the potential of EIT individualizing ventilation by positioning.

Methods

Gravity‐dependent EIT findings were analyzed retrospectively in a critically ill mechanically ventilated pediatric patient with cystic fibrosis and coincident lung diseases. To further evaluate gravity‐dependent changes in ventilation, six adult healthy and spontaneously breathing volunteers were investigated during simultaneous detection of EIT, breathing patterns, tidal volume (VT) and breathing frequency (BF).

Results

EIT findings in healthy lungs in five positions showed gravity‐dependent effects of ventilation with overall ventilation of predominantly the right lung (except during left‐side positioning) and with the ventral lung in supine, prone and upright position. These EIT‐derived observations are in line with pathophysiological mechanisms and earlier EIT studies. Unexpectedly, the patient with cystic fibrosis and lobectomy of the right upper and middle lobe one year earlier, showed improvement of global and regional ventilation in the right position despite reduced lung volume and overinflation of this side. This resulted in individualized positioning and improvement of ventilation.

Conclusions

Although therapeutic recommendations are available for gravitational influences of lung ventilation, they can be contradictory depending on the underlying lung disease. EIT has the potential to guide therapists in the positioning of patients according to their individual condition and disease, especially in case of multiple lung injury.
Alcohol and violence in nightlife and party settings: A qualitative study
Authors: Pedersen Willy , Copes Heith , Sandberg Sveinung
Published: April 2016

Introduction and Aims

In ‘binge drinking’ cultures, there is a strong association between alcohol consumption and violence. At the same time, several studies suggest that this link is cultural and contextual. We explore the role of alcohol in incidents of violence in nightlife settings.

Design and Methods

We used qualitative interviews with 104 Norwegians (52 men and 52 women, mean age 25 years) who binge drink and party in nightlife settings.

Results

Alcohol both sparks and constrains violence in these contexts. When participants use alcohol, they expect conflicts to occur and blame alcohol intoxication for such behaviour. The packed settings of nightlife and parties combined with the effects of alcohol can induce violence through personal affronts, heightened emotions and jealousy. At the same time, nightlife settings constrain violence. That is, binge drinkers excuse misbehaviour when it is attributed to alcohol. In addition, audiences in these setting often go to great lengths to stop fights. Combined, these factors help explain why violence occurs and why it usually does not escalate.

Discussion and Conclusions

The association between alcohol and violence can be understood by more closely examining the cultural and situational context where the events occur. This link is not primarily related to the psychopharmacological properties of alcohol, but rather it is associated with situational factors and cultural norms regarding how to behave while intoxicated. Strategies aiming at reducing violence in nightlife should take such factors into consideration. [Pedersen W, Copes H, Sandberg S. Alcohol and violence in nightlife and party settings: A qualitative study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:557–563]
Incorporating species detectability into conservation targets based on the species–area relationship
Authors: Karenyi Natasha , Nel Ronel , Altwegg Res , Sink Kerry
Published: April 2016

Aim

The species–area relationship‐based method of setting habitat‐specific conservation targets assumes that detectability of species is perfect. However, this assumption is often violated. This paper aimed to combine species–area relationship (SAR)‐based target setting with multispecies occupancy models to better represent communities with a large proportion of rare species, such as marine invertebrate macrofauna, include variable species detection and quantify uncertainty around conservation targets.

Location

South African West Coast continental shelf.

Methods

The macro‐infaunal dataset used in these analyses consisted of 427 species from 42 sites and 220 samples. To examine the effect of variable species detection and include uncertainty around conservation targets, we compared asymptotic estimator‐based targets with those based on multispecies site occupancy models (MSOMs) in a Bayesian framework, which allowed us to account for the observation process and quantify uncertainty more comprehensively.

Results

Targets based on MSOM were generally higher than those based on asymptotic estimators, with wider credible intervals. Between 10% and 15% (95% credible interval) of the area should be protected to represent 80% of the species, with the exception of one habitat with many common species that had a conservation target of 2%.

Main conclusions

Detection error‐corrected targets based on MSOM are higher than uncorrected targets based on asymptotic estimators for habitats with lower detection and higher proportions of rare species. Our estimated conservation targets are close to the 10% target for marine habitats set by the Convention of Biological Diversity and in line with international studies but should be considered minimum targets as they do not take into account species persistence. Our results affirm the value of the modified SAR approach, which is applicable to any marine or terrestrial ecosystem. Unlike earlier methods, our modification naturally quantifies uncertainty in estimated conservation targets providing a measure of target robustness for decision‐makers.
Efficacy and safety of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Zaccardi F. , Webb D. R. , Htike Z. Z. , Youssef D. , Khunti K. , Davies M. J.
Published: April 2016

Aim

To assess the comparative efficacy and safety of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We electronically searched randomized controlled trials (≥24 weeks) including canagliflozin, dapagliflozin or empagliflozin that were published up to 3 November 2015. Data were collected on cardiometabolic and safety outcomes and synthesized using network meta‐analyses.

Results

A total of 38 trials (23 997 participants) were included. Compared with placebo, all SGLT2 inhibitors reduced glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight and blood pressure, and slightly increased HDL cholesterol. Canagliflozin 300 mg reduced HbA1c, FPG and systolic blood pressure and increased LDL cholesterol to a greater extent compared with other inhibitors at any dose. At their highest doses, canagliflozin 300 mg reduced: HbA1c by 0.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.1–0.3] versus both dapagliflozin 10 mg and empagliflozin 25 mg; FPG by 0.6 mmol/l (95% CI 0.3–0.9) and 0.5 mmol/l (95% CI 0.1–0.8) versus dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, respectively; and systolic blood pressure by 2 mmHg (95% CI 1.0–3.0) versus dapagliflozin; and increased LDL cholesterol by 0.13 mmol/l (95% CI 0.03–0.23) and 0.15 mmol/l (95% CI 0.06–0.23) versus dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, respectively. The highest doses of inhibitors had similar effects on body weight reduction. Canagliflozin 300 and 100 mg increased the risk of hypoglycaemia versus placebo, dapagliflozin 10 mg and empagliflozin 10 mg [odds ratios (ORs) 1.4–1.6]. Dapagliflozin 10 mg increased the risk of urinary tract infection versus placebo and empagliflozin 25 mg (ORs 1.4). All inhibitors similarly increased the risk of genital infection (ORs 4–6 versus placebo).

Conclusions

Although they increase the risk of genital infection, SGLT2 inhibitors are effective in improving cardiometabolic markers in type 2 diabetes, with canagliflozin 300 mg performing better in this respect than other inhibitors. Further studies will clarify whether these differences are likely to translate into differing long‐term outcomes.
Differential effects of once‐weekly glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist dulaglutide and metformin on pancreatic β‐cell and insulin sensitivity during a standardized test meal in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Mari A. , Del Prato S. , Ludvik B. , Milicevic Z. , de la Peña A. , Shurzinske L. , Karanikas C. A. , Pechtner V.
Published: April 2016

This substudy of the AWARD‐3 trial evaluated the effects of the once‐weekly glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, dulaglutide, versus metformin on glucose control, pancreatic function and insulin sensitivity, after standardized test meals in patients with type 2 diabetes. Meals were administered at baseline, 26 and 52 weeks to patients randomized to monotherapy with dulaglutide 1.5 mg/week (n = 133), dulaglutide 0.75 mg/week (n = 136), or metformin ≥1500 mg/day (n = 140). Fasting and postprandial serum glucose, insulin, C‐peptide and glucagon levels were measured up to 3 h post‐meal. β‐cell function and insulin sensitivity were assessed using empirical variables and mathematical modelling. At 26 weeks, similar decreases in area under the curve for glucose [AUCglucose (0–3 h)] were observed among all groups. β‐cell function [AUCinsulin/AUCglucose (0–3 h)] increased with dulaglutide and was unchanged with metformin (p ≤ 0.005, both doses). Dulaglutide improved insulin secretion rate at 9 mmol/l glucose (p ≤ 0.04, both doses) and β‐cell glucose sensitivity (p = 0.004, dulaglutide 1.5 mg). Insulin sensitivity increased more with metformin versus dulaglutide. In conclusion, dulaglutide improves postprandial glycaemic control after a standardized test meal by enhancing β‐cell function, while metformin exerts a greater effect on insulin sensitivity.
Change in glycated haemoglobin levels after initiating second‐line therapy in type 2 diabetes: a primary care database study
Authors: Rathmann W. , Bongaerts B. , Kostev K.
Published: April 2016

The aim of the present study was to compare the absolute reduction in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at 6 months after initiating second‐line glucose‐lowering therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with metformin monotherapy in general practices. A total of 7009 patients were identified (Disease Analyser Germany: January 2004 to December 2014). The patients' mean ± standard deviation (s.d.) age was 63 ± 11 years, 55.5% were male and their mean ± s.d. HbA1c level was 8.0 ± 1.6%. The initiated second‐line therapies included: dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors (38.7%); sulphonylureas (36.3%); insulin (13.3%); glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs; 2.5%); thiazolidinediones (5%); and other agents (glinides, aldose‐reductase inhibitors; 4.1%). The mean absolute HbA1c change from baseline was −0.9% (DPP‐4 inhibitors, −0.9%; sulphonylureas, −0.9%; insulin, −1.1%; GLP‐1RAs, −0.7%; thiazolidinediones, −0.9%; and other, −0.7%; all p < 0.001). Overall, 58% of patients reached the HbA1c target of <7% (DPP‐4 inhibitors, 61.7%; sulphonylureas, 56.7%; insulin, 45.6%; GLP‐1RAs, 62.2%; thiazolidinediones, 69.7%; and other, 57.5%). Compared with sulphonlyureas, DPP‐4 inhibitors, GLP‐1RAs and thiazolidinediones were associated with an increased odds of reaching HbA1c <7% [odds ratio (OR) 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–1.40; OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.01–2.04; and OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.30–2.23, respectively], whereas insulin was related to a lower odds (0.66, 95% CI 0.55–0.78). In conclusion, in patients with type 2 diabetes very similar reductions in HbA1c after 6 months of second‐line therapy were achieved regardless of the type of therapy.
The dynamics of returns to education in Uganda: National and subnational trends
Authors: Crespo Cuaresma Jesus , Raggl Anna
Published: April 2016

We assess empirically the changes in returns to education at the subnational level in Uganda using the Uganda National Household Surveys for 2002–3 and 2005–6. Our results indicate that average returns to schooling tended to converge across regions in the last decade. The overall trend in convergence of returns to schooling took place at all levels of educational attainment and this behaviour in returns to education is mostly driven by the dynamics of returns to schooling in urban areas. We analyse subnational convergence in returns to education and unveil deviant dynamics in Northern Uganda. We discuss the potential challenges to inclusive economic growth in Uganda which are implied by our results.
Revisiting the Forward Premium Anomaly Using Consumption Habits: A New Keynesian Model
Authors: De Paoli Bianca , Søndergaard Jens
Published: April 2016

This paper revisits the ability of consumption habits to resolve the forward premium anomaly as documented in the literature. We show that the favourable results obtained in an endowment setting crucially depend on having persistent dynamics in excess consumption, and do not appear to hold up in a production economy with nominal rigidities. The inability of such models to match equity and term premium has often been emphasized in the closed economy literature. Our findings suggest that this shortcoming also extends to open economy models and their ability to explain foreign exchange premia.
Subjective Expectations and Income Processes in Rural India
Authors: Attanasio Orazio , Augsburg Britta
Published: April 2016

This paper uses unique primary data on directly elicited individual subjective expectations to analyse and characterize the process that generates the income of poor, rural Indian households. We validate and use responses to subjective expectations questions and a parametric assumption to fit a household‐specific probability distribution for future income. Combining computed moments from this distribution with data for actual current income, we specify and estimate a dynamic model of household income. We find that our households face a very persistent income process. Our paper is one of the first that uses subjective expectations data to model income processes.
A DESIGNER'S CHOICE BETWEEN SINGLE‐PRIZE AND PARALLEL TOURNAMENTS
Authors: Büyükboyacı Mürüvvet
Published: April 2016

In this article, I theoretically and experimentally compare a designer's profits from two tournament designs. The first design is a standard winner‐take‐all tournament with a single prize. The second design features two winner‐take‐all (parallel) tournaments with different prizes where individuals choose which tournament to enter before competing. I develop a simple model that illustrates how the relative performances of these designs change as contestants' abilities differ. The theoretical model shows that the designer's profit is higher (lower) in the parallel tournament when contestants' abilities differ greatly (are similar). I complement these findings with experimental evidence. The experiments show that the parallel tournament is more profitable under high heterogeneity, whereas under low heterogeneity, the designer is better off with the single‐prize tournament. Furthermore, high‐ability agents under‐participate and low‐ability agents over‐participate in the high‐prize tournament relative to the theoretical prediction. (JEL C72, D82, J33, M51, M52)
Social Capital and Credit Cooperative Banks
Authors: Catturani Ivana , Kalmi Panu , Stefani Maria Lucia
Published: April 2016

This paper contributes to the literature on social capital and financial institutions by analysing the relationship between the market share of Italian credit cooperative banks (CCBs) in 2003–2011 at the province level and some measures of trust and of membership in formal associations (networks). According to anecdotal evidence, cooperatives require high levels of social capital to be successful, but theoretical predictions are ambiguous, and there is still little empirical evidence. We find that the social capital and market shares of Italian CCBs are related and that the links are stronger when banks lend to small enterprises. When the types of associations are separated according to their particularistic or universalistic nature, the results show that it is especially the latter that matters. We also find that the link between social capital and CCBs is due more to their cooperative structures than to their local orientations.
Molecular mechanisms in the initiation phase of Wallerian degeneration
Authors: Chang Biao , Quan Qi , Lu Shibi , Wang Yu , Peng Jiang
Published: April 2016

Axonal degeneration is an early hallmark of nerve injury and many neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery of the Wallerian degeneration slow mutant mouse, in which axonal degeneration is delayed, revealed that Wallerian degeneration is an active progress and thereby illuminated the mechanisms underlying axonal degeneration. Nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase 2 and sterile alpha and armadillo motif‐containing protein 1 play essential roles in the maintenance of axon integrity by regulating the level of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which seems to be the key molecule involved in the maintenance of axonal health. However, the function of nicotinamide mononucleotide remains debatable, and we discuss two apparently conflicting roles of nicotinamide mononucleotide in Wallerian degeneration. In this article, we focus on the roles of these molecules in the initiation phase of Wallerian degeneration to improve our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning this phenomenon.
The role of neurogenesis during development and in the adult brain
Authors: Jin Xing
Published: April 2016

Neural stem cells (NSCs) give rise to neurons during development. NSCs persist and neurogenesis continues in restricted regions of postnatal and adult brains. Adult‐born neurons integrate into existing neural circuits by synaptic connections and participate in the regulation of brain function. Thus, understanding NSCs and neurogenesis may be crucial in the development of new strategies for brain repair. Here, we introduce the lineage of NSCs from embryonic to adult stages and summarize recent studies on maturation and integration of adult‐born neurons. We also discuss the regulation and potential functions of adult neurogenesis in physiological and pathological conditions.
Ginsenoside Rg1 reverses stress‐induced depression‐like behaviours and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression within the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Zhu Xiuzhi , Gao Rui , Liu Zhuxi , Cheng Ziyi , Qi Yihang , Fan Cuiqin , Yu Shu Yan
Published: April 2016

Depression is a major neuropsychiatric disorder that exerts deleterious effects upon public health. However, the neuronal mechanisms of depression remain largely uncharacterized, which has retarded the identification and development of effective therapeutic tools for the treatment of this disorder. The aim of this study was to explore the neuronal mechanisms underlying the protective effects of ginsenoside Rg1, a natural steroidal saponin found in ginseng, against chronic stress‐induced depression.The results showed that chronic administration of ginsenoside Rg1 (40 mg/kg, i.p., 5 weeks) significantly ameliorated depression‐like behaviours in rats as assessed in the sucrose preference and forced swim tests. Furthermore, chronic stress decreased the phosphorylation levels of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and cAMP‐response element‐binding protein in the prefrontal cortex as well as producing a reduction of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression. Of particular importance, all reductions in these parameters were significantly reversed by pre‐treatment with ginsenoside Rg1. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that the antidepressant‐like effect of ginsenoside Rg1 might be mediated, at least in part, by activating the cAMP‐response element‐binding protein–brain‐derived neurotrophic factor system within the prefrontal cortex. These findings not only reveal some of the underlying neuronal mechanisms of depression, but also the therapeutic potential of ginsenoside Rg1 as a preventive agent in the treatment of depression.
Evaluation of effect of soil organic matter on pores by 1H time‐domain magnetic resonance relaxometry and adsorption–desorption of N2
Authors: Benito P. , Bortolotti V. , Fornasari G. , Vannini M.
Published: April 2016

Stabilization of organic matter (OM) is an important topic in soil science, but it is not yet completely understood. Recent interest in the recovery of poor or damaged soil with the addition of OM from waste such as paper mill sludge has led to further research on this topic. Research on the association of OM with soil minerals is difficult; therefore, most of the experimental studies published have been carried out on natural (not treated) or artificial soil. In this paper, we describe the use of both 1H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry in the time domain (TD‐MRR) and N2 adsorption–desorption techniques to characterize samples of soil taken from a hillside treated with paper mill sludge. We have shown that although both techniques are sensitive to different, but to some extent complementary, scales of pore sizes, they can highlight the clogging effect of OM on soil pores (in a range of pores sizes from a few nm to several µm). The relations with total organic carbon were similar for the bound water porosity evaluated by TD‐MRR and the specific surface area determined by N2 adsorption–desorption. This new approach that uses both TD‐MRR and N2 adsorption–desorption also suggests that OM is well protected in small pores (≤ 2 µm), especially when there is preferential association with minerals, for example with kaolin clay and carbonates.

Highlights

Characterization of the porosity of soil sampled from a hillside treated with organic waste.

The combined use of 1H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry and N2 adsorption‐desorption techniques.

There is a clogging effect of organic matter on soil pores from a few nm to several µm.

Both techniques can be used to add information on potential TOC stabilization.
Multi‐angular spectral reflectance to characterize the particle size of surfaces of desert and cultivated soil
Authors: Lv Y. , Sun Z.
Published: April 2016

This research examines the distribution of bi‐conical reflectance of particulate surfaces with different particle sizes by multi‐angular reflectance. Two types of particulate samples (called desert and cultivated soil) were sieved to a particle size range of 0.15–0.9 mm. The reflectance factors were measured at 570 or 330 different viewing positions for each illumination angle (45° and 60°). The reflectance was strongly non‐Lambertian for all samples, but with markedly different patterns for the two types of particulate surface. Particle size was correlated with the bi‐conical reflectance factor (BCRF) and anisotropic reflectance factor (ARF), respectively. The results showed a strong relation between BCRF and particle size in all viewing directions, except for the backward scattering direction, with an average R2 value of 0.9. The use of ARF improved the relation with particle size more in the backward scattering direction in the principal plane than with BCRF (R2 = 0.7 for BCRF; R2 = 0.91 for ARF). However, the strong relation between the ARF and particle size was limited in the forward and backward scattering directions, with an average R2 value of 0.86. The results showed the considerable potential of multi‐angular reflectance for quantitative evaluation of the particle size of particulate surfaces. This approach appears to provide a promising empirical and theoretical basis for the future retrieval of soil particle size.

Highlights:

The aim is to estimate the particle size from the reflectance of soil samples.

Analysis of the relation between particle size and reflectance with multi‐angular data.

There was a strong relation between reflectance and particle size in 2π space.

Multi‐angular reflectance has the potential to evaluate quantitatively the particle size of soil.
Bifidobacteria inhibit the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis but not of Streptococcus mutans in an in vitro biofilm model
Authors: Jäsberg Heli , Söderling Eva , Endo Akihito , Beighton David , Haukioja Anna
Published: April 2016

There is growing interest in the use of probiotic bifidobacteria for enhancement of the therapy, and in the prevention, of oral microbial diseases. However, the results of clinical studies assessing the effects of bifidobacteria on the oral microbiota are controversial, and the mechanisms of actions of probiotics in the oral cavity remain largely unknown. In addition, very little is known about the role of commensal bifidobacteria in oral health. Our aim was to study the integration of the probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bb12 and of oral Bifidobacterium dentium and Bifidobacterium longum isolates in supragingival and subgingival biofilm models and their effects on other bacteria in biofilms in vitro using two different in vitro biofilms and agar‐overlay assays. All bifidobacteria integrated well into the subgingival biofilms composed of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinomyces naeslundii, and Fusobacterium nucleatum and decreased significantly only the number of P. gingivalis in the biofilms. The integration of bifidobacteria into the supragingival biofilms containing Streptococcus mutans and A. naeslundii was less efficient, and bifidobacteria did not affect the number of S. mutans in biofilms. Therefore, our results suggest that bifidobacteria may have a positive effect on subgingival biofilm and thereby potential in enhancing gingival health; however, their effect on supragingival biofilm may be limited.
Therapeutic implications of melanoma heterogeneity
Authors: Hachey Stephanie J. , Boiko Alexander D.
Published: April 2016

Over the last decade, the treatment of metastatic melanoma has been revolutionized by the translation of molecular insights into therapeutic benefit for patients. These include advances in immunotherapeutic and small‐molecule approaches aimed at destroying cells with immunogenic antigens or gene mutations. Despite these advances, the limited durability of clinical response and eventual disease progression underscores a need for better understanding of mechanisms underlying tumor development. Current targeted therapies are developed partly based on the rationale that tumors are primarily clonal with respect to mutant oncogene or cell surface antigen target. However, with the advancement of cell isolation and transplantation approaches coupled with deep sequencing and mutation detection techniques, it has become increasingly clear that tumors are polyclonal. As a result, sensitive malignant cells are eradicated by treatment while the remaining tumor cell populations are conferred varying degrees of resistance and survival advantages by harbouring or acquiring certain epigenetic and genetic abnormalities. Tumor heterogeneity thus represents a major obstacle to the successful application of current therapies. Gaining insights into the cellular and molecular aspects of tumor diversity will not only facilitate the development and selection of therapeutic targets but also promote the evolution of precision medicine. In this viewpoint, we will discuss the implications of tumor heterogeneity for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and propose approaches to accelerate the translation of scientific discovery into improved clinical outcomes.
Opioids and skin homeostasis, regeneration and ageing – What's the evidence?
Authors: Bigliardi Paul L. , Dancik Yuri , Neumann Christine , Bigliardi‐Qi Mei
Published: April 2016

What has the opioid receptor system, known for beneficial as well as disastrous effects in the central nervous system, to do with skin? The question is appropriate considering the fact that the nervous system and the skin both derive from the ectoderm. As part of the skin neuroendocrine system, the opioid receptor system exemplifies the closeness between the nervous system and the skin. Overexpression of the δ‐opioid receptor in keratinocytes yields dysregulation of involucrin, loricrin, and filaggrin, proteins essential to the integrity of the skin barrier. The μ‐opioid receptor ligand β‐endorphin, produced in the pituitary gland and a variety of skin cells, promotes wound healing via regulation of cytokeratin 16 and TGF‐β type II receptor expression in keratinocytes. These and other published results discussed in this viewpoint are evidence for the fundamental role of the skin opioid receptor system in skin homeostasis, regeneration and ageing. While considerable progress in understanding the opioid receptors’ function on the cellular level has been made, there is a need to link these results to physiological observations for the development of local skin therapies.
EMMPRIN/CD147 is an independent prognostic biomarker in cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Caudron Anne , Battistella Maxime , Feugeas Jean‐Paul , Pages Cécile , Basset‐Seguin Nicole , Mazouz Dorval Sarra , Funck Brentano Elisa , Sadoux Aurélie , Podgorniak Marie‐Pierre , Menashi Suzanne , Janin Anne , Lebbé Céleste , Mourah Samia
Published: April 2016

CD147 has been implicated in melanoma invasion and metastasis mainly through increasing metalloproteinase synthesis and regulating VEGF/VEGFR signalling. In this study, the prognostic value of CD147 expression was investigated in a cohort of 196 cutaneous melanomas including 136 consecutive primary malignant melanomas, 30 lymph nodes, 16 in‐transit and 14 visceral metastases. A series of 10 normal skin, 10 blue nevi and 10 dermal nevi was used as control. CD147 expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry, and the association of its expression with the clinicopathological characteristics of patients and survival was evaluated using univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. Univariate analysis showed that high CD147 expression was significantly associated with metastatic potential and with a reduced overall survival (P < 0.05 for both) in primary melanoma patients. CD147 expression level was correlated with histological factors which were associated with prognosis: Clark level, ulceration status and more particularly with Breslow index (r = 0.7, P < 10−8). Multivariate analysis retained CD147 expression level and ulceration status as predicting factors for metastasis and overall survival (P < 0.05 for both). CD147 emerges as an important factor in the aggressive behaviour of melanoma and deserves further evaluation as an independent prognostic biomarker.