bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land‐use change alters the mechanisms assembling rainforest mammal communities in Borneo
Authors: Wearn Oliver R. , Carbone Chris , Rowcliffe J. Marcus , Pfeifer Marion , Bernard Henry , Ewers Robert M.
Published: September 2018

The assembly of species communities at local scales is thought to be driven by environmental filtering, species interactions and spatial processes such as dispersal limitation. Little is known about how the relative balance of these drivers of community assembly changes along environmental gradients, especially man‐made environmental gradients associated with land‐use change.

Using concurrent camera‐ and live‐trapping, we investigated the local‐scale assembly of mammal communities along a gradient of land‐use intensity (old‐growth forest, logged forest and oil palm plantations) in Borneo. We hypothesised that increasing land‐use intensity would lead to an increasing dominance of environmental control over spatial processes in community assembly. Additionally, we hypothesised that competitive interactions among species might reduce in concert with declines in α‐diversity (previously documented) along the land‐use gradient.

To test our first hypothesis, we partitioned community variance into the fractions explained by environmental and spatial variables. To test our second hypothesis, we used probabilistic models of expected species co‐occurrence patterns, in particular focussing on the prevalence of spatial avoidance between species. Spatial avoidance might indicate competition, but might also be due to divergent habitat preferences.

We found patterns that are consistent with a shift in the fundamental mechanics governing local community assembly. In support of our first hypothesis, the importance of spatial processes (dispersal limitation and fine‐scale patterns of home‐ranging) appeared to decrease from low to high intensity land‐uses, whilst environmental control increased in importance (in particular due to fine‐scale habitat structure). Support for our second hypothesis was weak: whilst we found that the prevalence of spatial avoidance decreased along the land‐use gradient, in particular between congeneric species pairs most likely to be in competition, few instances of spatial avoidance were detected in any land‐use, and most were likely due to divergent habitat preferences.

The widespread changes in land‐use occurring in the tropics might be altering not just the biodiversity found in landscapes, but also the fundamental mechanics governing the local assembly of communities. A better understanding of these mechanics, for a range of taxa, could underpin more effective conservation and management of threatened tropical landscapes.
Clinical utility of the In‐Home Occupational Performance Evaluation (I‐HOPE) for major home modification practice in Australia
Authors: Aplin Tammy , Ainsworth Elizabeth
Published: September 2018

Background/aim

The use of standardised measures in home modification practice is rare, in part due to a lack of suitable tools. One promising outcome measure designed for home modification practice is the In‐Home Occupational Performance Evaluation (I‐HOPE). This study aimed to investigate the clinical utility of the I‐HOPE for major home modification practice in Australia.

Methods

The I‐HOPE was trialled in one major home modification service by five occupational therapists who participated in two focus groups. Feedback using a purposefully developed questionnaire was also collected from 25 adult clients who completed the I‐HOPE. Data from the focus groups were thematically analysed, and the questionnaire responses were analysed using template analysis.

Results

The analysis revealed four themes: client experience, training and resources, suitability to major home modification practice and improvements and future use. Therapists valued the person‐focused nature of the I‐HOPE; however, there were some clinical utility issues identified including confusion of the rating scales for clients, length of time to complete the tool and the need for more training and a clearer instruction manual.

Conclusion

It is suggested that the I‐HOPE is a person‐focused and valuable tool for community occupational therapy practice in the Australian context but may not be suited to specialised major home modification services. An app or online version of the tool for client use, and the availability of training resources which are accessed online would enhance the clinical utility of the tool.
Reliability, convergent validity and applicability of the Assistive Technology Outcome Profile for Mobility for middle‐aged and older power wheelchair users
Authors: Auger Claudine , Rushton Paula W. , Jutai Jeffrey W. , Miller William C.
Published: September 2018

Background/aim

The Assistive Technology Outcome Profile for Mobility (ATOP/M) was designed to isolate the impact of mobility assistive technology on perceived difficulty with activity and participation. The study objectives were to examine its measurement properties (test‐retest reliability and convergent validity) and applicability for middle‐aged and older power wheelchair (PWC) users.

Methods

Four ATOP/M subscales were administered using computer adaptive testing (activity with mobility device, activity without mobility device, participation with mobility device, participation without mobility device). Test‐retest reliability (4‐wk interval), convergent validity (a priori hypothesis testing of correlations with participation (Late‐life Disability Instrument) and mobility (Life‐space Assessment)) and applicability (respondent burden, distributions) were examined with 116 PWC users between 50 and 85 years of age presenting with a variety of diagnoses.

Results

When using powered mobility, perceived difficulty with activity and participation scores were similar to the general population of mobility devices users (T‐score range 46.3–53.7), while activity and participation were significantly lower without mobility devices (T‐score range 35.3–39.4). Test‐retest reliability intra‐class coefficients of the four subscales ranged between 0.82 and 0.91, and convergent validity was supported by moderate correlations (r = 0.35–0.47). Respondent burden was higher for the without devices subscales and none of the subscales had significant floor/ceiling effects.

Conclusion

Our results provide support for reliability and convergent validity of the ATOP/M for PWC users. Specific strategies were recommended to optimise applicability with this population such as administration guidelines for reframing the without device scale and timing of data collection.
Adaptation of the Possibilities for Activity Scale for women encountering cancer (PActS‐W)
Authors: Pergolotti Mackenzi , Doll Kemi M. , Fawaz Emily O. , Reeve Bryce B.
Published: September 2018

Background/aim

The original Possibilities for Activity Scale (PActS) examined the internalised societal pressures of older adults with cancer. Previous research found that scores from the original PActS scale were associated with participation in meaningful activity. Women of working age may have different societal pressures than older adults, which could impact their quality of life. Our aims were to (i) adapt the scale specifically for women, (ii) test convergent and structural validity and (iii) test internal consistency reliability.

Method

First, we completed a literature review to add new items, then measured psychometric properties of PActS‐W.

Findings

A total of 186 women, one month after cancer surgery completed PActS‐W. PActS‐W demonstrated convergent‐related (physical health r = 0.40, mental health r = 0.30, P < 0.01), structural validity (CFI, 0.96; RMSEA, 0.10; IFI, 0.96, NFI, 0.94) and high internal consistency reliability (stratified coefficient α = 0.90).

Conclusion

The PActS‐W may be useful for measuring women's internalised societal pressures after encountering cancer, which relates to their quality of life, but further testing is needed.
Qualitative analysis of perceptions and experiences of emergency department staff in relation to implementation and outcomes of the Four‐Hour Rule/National Emergency Access Target in Australia
Authors: Nahidi Shizar , Forero Roberto , McCarthy Sally , Man Nicola , Gibson Nick , Mohsin Mohammed , Mountain David , Fatovich Daniel , Fitzgerald Gerard , Toloo Ghasem (Sam) ,   on behalf of the 4HR/NEAT Partnership Grant
Published: September 2018

Objective

The implementation of the time target policy (Four‐Hour Rule/National Emergency Access Target [4HR/NEAT]) constituted a major change for ED, and potentially on quality of care. The present study aimed to understand perceptions and experiences of ED staff during 4HR/NEAT implementation.

Methods

A semi‐structured interview was used to explore views and perceptions of 119 ED staff from 16 EDs in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland and Western Australia. The interviews covered aspects such as perceived changes in quality of clinical care, whether the capacity to deliver education was diminished or enhanced and whether the policy affected access to care. Interviews were transcribed, imported to NVivo 11 and analysed using content and thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified: quality and safety of care; access block and overcrowding; and medical education and training. Participants described both positive and negative aspects of the policy. Although some reported negative impacts on care quality and access block, more cited overall improvements in these areas. The majority perceived that medical education and training was negatively affected, mainly because of restricted training opportunities and reduced time for procedural skills.

Conclusions

ED staff perceived important effects on quality and safety of care; access block and overcrowding; and medical education and training. In relation to an optimised ED role, quality of care and access block were overall felt to be improved, while education and training deteriorated. Our study increases understanding of the complexity of policy implementation processes and its impact on staff. Staff perceptions are a valuable measure of system performance and should be incorporated into system change evaluations.
Predictive Value of Schistocytes in Recurrence of Acquired Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura With Severe ADAMTS13 Deficiency at Discontinuation of Daily Therapeutic Plasma Exchange
Authors: Peedin Alexis R , Park Yara A , Mazepa Marshall A , Rollins‐Raval Marian A , Brecher Mark E , Raval Jay S
Published: September 2018

Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and commonly ADAMTS13 deficiency. Patients with TTP and severe ADAMTS13 deficiency have high risk of disease recurrence, yet the ability to predict which patients will have recurrence remains limited. We assessed whether the presence of persistent schistocytes in TTP patients with severe ADAMTS13 deficiency at the time of daily therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) discontinuation was predictive of disease recurrence. We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of all patients with a diagnosis of TTP treated with TPE at our university medical center between August 1991 and April 2013. Exacerbation was defined as disease recurrence within 30 days of cessation of daily TPE, and relapse was defined as disease recurrence >30 days after cessation of daily TPE. Comparisons were performed with a two‐sided Fisher's exact test or χ2 test. Of the 46 total TTP patients eligible for analysis, nine had residual schistocytosis (20%), four of the nine (44%) had exacerbations, and two of the nine (22%) relapsed. Of the 37 patients without residual schistocytosis, 16 (43%) had exacerbations and 11 (30%) relapsed. There were no statistically significant differences in the exacerbation or relapse rates with or without residual schistocytosis (P = 1.00 and 1.00, respectively). Residual schistocytes after discontinuation of daily TPE were not uncommon. The persistence of schistocytes had poor sensitivity, specificity, and both positive and negative predictive values. After the initial diagnosis of TTP is made, there is no reason to continue documenting the presence or absence of schistocytes.
Health Risk Assessment of Exposure to Heavy Metals and Aflatoxins via Dietary Intake of Dried Red Pepper from Marketplaces in Antalya, Southern Turkey
Authors: Kilic Serpil , Cam Ihsan Burak , Tongur Timur , Kilic Murat
Published: September 2018

Red pepper is used as raw material in industry and as a seasoning in various foods. In this study, the cadmium, lead and arsenic content of 33 red pepper samples sold in open and sealed packages on different markets was investigated in terms of their synthetic color components, aflatoxin amounts and toxic elements, which have been declared as cancerous by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the results, synthetic colorants, arsenic and cadmium were not detected in any of the samples, while lead was detected in 11 samples and aflatoxins were detected in eight of the samples. As a consequence of these investigations, a health risk analysis was carried out by taking into account the amount of consumption in the region. The B1 aflatoxin content in the samples, according to daily consumption data, exceeded the limits set by the European Commission (EC) by almost 150%.
Fatty Acid and Phytosterol Composition, and Biological Activities of Lycium ruthenicum Murr. Seed Oil
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Dong Banmacailang , Li Pi , Wei Wei , Dang Jun , Liu Zenggeng , Tao Yanduo , Han Hongping , Shao Yun , Yue Huilan
Published: September 2018

Lycium ruthenicum Murr. (LRM, Solanaceae), also called “black wolfberry” in China, is extremely tolerant drought. Although black wolfberry has seeds that are rich in oil, being considered as a potential alternative for edible oil production, little information has been found regarding its characterization. The present study evaluated the fatty acid profile of the seed oil and its phytosterol contents. Moreover, its antioxidant potential and its inhibition activities on pancreatic lipase, and cholesterol esterase (CEase) were also determined. The key fatty acids of studied oil were linoleic (74.58%), oleic (11.82%), γ‐linolenic (6.60%), palmitic (4.88%), and stearic (1.40%) acids, which together comprised 99.28% of the total fatty acids. Phytosterols including 24‐methylenecholesterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, dihydrolanosterol, 24‐methyldesmosterol, β‐sitosterol, Δ5‐avenasterol, cycloartenol, and Δ7−avenasterol were identified for the 1st time. The inhibition values (IC50) for the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging capacities of the oil were 7.86 and 15.49 mg/mL, respectively. Additionally, LRM seed oil was also demonstrated to possess strong pancreatic lipase, and CEase inhibition activities with IC50 values of 12.38 and 2.63 mg/mL, respectively. The mechanism study indicated that the inhibitory manner of the oil on CEase belonged to uncompetitive inhibition of reversible inhibition. The results derived from above studies suggest that LRM seed oil could be a potential source of high value phytochemicals for developing novel functional food.
Gain in adiposity over 3 years is associated with progressive renal decline in multi‐ethnic South‐east Asians with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Moh Mei Chung , Sum Chee Fang , Tavintharan Subramaniam , Ang Keven , Kwan Pek Yee , Lee Simon Biing Ming , Tang Wern Ee , Lim Su Chi
Published: September 2018

Background

This study evaluated the association between gain in adiposity and renal decline in a large prospective multiethnic South‐east Asian cohort with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Three years after the baseline visit, 2057 T2DM subjects were recalled for reassessment. The final cohort comprised 1014 subjects and was categorized into tertiles based on changes in body weight (ΔWt), body mass index (ΔBMI), visceral fat area (ΔVFA), and BMI‐adjusted VFA (ΔVFABMI). Outcomes included annual and rapid (≥3 mL/min per 1.73 m2 per year) decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and progression of albuminuria.

Results

Participants (mean [±SD] age 57 ± 11 years, 48.8% women, BMI 27.7 ± 5.4 kg/m2) exhibited a median annual decline in eGFR of 1.0 mL/min per 1.73 m2. Compared with the lower tertiles, Tertile 3 of ΔWt, ΔBMI, ΔVFA, and ΔVFABMI had the highest anthropometric increase, albeit of modest magnitude, and this was accompanied by the worst renal outcomes (all P < 0.05). The relationship between annual eGFR decline and Tertile 3 of ΔWt, ΔBMI, and ΔVFABMI persisted after multivariate adjustment in men but not in women. In addition, Tertile 3 of ΔWt, ΔBMI, ΔVFA, and ΔVFABMI predicted rapid eGFR decline. Anthropometric gains were also associated with progression of albuminuria.

Conclusions

Modest longitudinal gain in adiposity was associated with progressive renal decline in T2DM patients, suggesting that increased adiposity over time adversely affects renal outcomes. Therefore, a carefully designed weight‐neutral or ‐loss antidiabetic treatment regimen is important when managing T2DM in the clinic.
The International Trauma Questionnaire: development of a self‐report measure of ICD‐11 PTSD and complex PTSD
Authors: Cloitre M. , Shevlin M. , Brewin C. R. , Bisson J. I. , Roberts N. P. , Maercker A. , Karatzias T. , Hyland P.
Published: September 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to finalize the development of the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), a self‐report diagnostic measure of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD (CPTSD), as defined in the 11th version of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐11).

Method

The optimal symptom indicators of PTSD and CPTSD were identified by applying item response theory (IRT) analysis to data from a trauma‐exposed community sample (n = 1051) and a trauma‐exposed clinical sample (n = 247) from the United Kingdom. The validity of the optimized 12‐item ITQ was assessed with confirmatory factor analyses. Diagnostic rates were estimated and compared to previous validation studies.

Results

The latent structure of the 12‐item, optimized ITQ was consistent with prior findings, and diagnostic rates of PTSD and CPTSD were in line with previous estimates.

Conclusion

The ITQ is a brief, simply worded measure of the core features of PTSD and CPTSD. It is consistent with the organizing principles of the ICD‐11 to maximize clinical utility and international applicability through a focus on a limited but central set of symptoms. The measure is freely available and can be found in the body of this paper.
Social deficits following embryonic ethanol exposure arise in post‐larval zebrafish
Authors: Fernandes Yohaan , Rampersad Mindy , Jones Emma M. , Eberhart Johann K.
Published: September 2018

Prenatal alcohol exposure is the leading cause of birth defects, collectively termed fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). In the United States and Canada, 1 in 100 children will be born with FASD. Some of the most commonly debilitating defects of FASD are in social behavior. Zebrafish are highly social animals, and embryonic ethanol exposure from 24 to 26 hours post‐fertilization disrupts this social (shoaling) response in adult zebrafish. Recent findings have suggested that social behaviors are present in zebrafish larvae as young as 3 weeks, but how they relate to adult shoaling is unclear. We tested the same ethanol‐exposed zebrafish for social impairments at 3 weeks then again at 16 weeks. At both ages, live conspecifics were used to elicit a social response. We did not find alcohol‐induced differences in behavior in 3‐week‐old fish when they were able to see conspecifics. We do find evidence that control zebrafish are able to use nonvisual stimuli to detect conspecifics, and this behavior is disrupted in the alcohol‐exposed fish. As adults, these fish displayed a significant decrease in social behavior when conspecifics are visible. This surprising finding demonstrates that the adult and larval social behaviors are, at least partly, separable. Future work will investigate the nature of these nonvisual cues and how the neurocircuitry differs between the larval and adult social behaviors.
Molecular cloning and expression of ghrelin in the hypothalamus–pituitary–gastrointestinal tract axis of the Yak (Bos grunniens) in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Ding Yanping , Zhang Na , Li Jialong , Jin Yiran , Shao Baoping
Published: September 2018

Ghrelin is a very important brain–gut peptide that modulates appetite and energy metabolism in mammals. The yak is the only large mammal that can adapt to the cold temperatures and hypoxia conditions present in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. However, there are no reports on ghrelin molecular characterization and expression in the hypothalamus–pituitary–digestive tract axis of the yak to date. In this study, the coding region sequence of the yak ghrelin, containing a complete ORF (351) encoding for 117 amino acids, was cloned. Immunohistochemistry analysis of the yak samples showed that ghrelin‐immunoreactive cells were expressed at the arcuate nucleus (ARC), the ventromedial nucleus (VMN), the dorsomedial nucleus (DMN) of the hypothalamus and also at the anterior pituitary. Ghrelin‐positive cells were also present in approximately two thirds of the submucosa of the abomasum fundic gland and mucous layer of the duodenum intestinal gland. Ghrelin's mRNA highest expression occurred in the abomasum sample, followed by the duodenum, hypothalamus and lowest at the pituitary gland. The level of ghrelin mRNA measured in yak was higher than in cattle for all the tissues that were compared. The ghrelin protein and mRNA expression profiles were similar. These data imply that the high expression of ghrelin in the hypothalamus–pituitary–digestive tract axis of yak could aid adaptation to the extreme environment better than cattle, by improving appetite and fat accumulation, regulating body temperature and reducing energy consumption via regulating energy metabolism.
Systematic review of p38 mitogen‐activated kinase and its functional role in reproductive tissues
Authors: Sheller‐Miller Samantha , Richardson Lauren , Martin Laura , Jin Jin , Menon Ramkumar
Published: September 2018

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a role in uterine tissue remodeling during pregnancy and parturition. While p38 MAPK is an OS‐response kinase, a precise functional role is unknown. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of literature on p38 MAPK expression, activation, and function in reproductive tissues throughout pregnancy and parturition, published between January 1980 and August 2017, using four electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, and CoCHRANE). We identified 418 reports; 108 were selected for full‐text evaluation and 74 were included in final review. p38 MAPK was investigated using feto‐maternal primary or immortalized cells, tissue explants, and animal models. Western blot was most commonly used to report phosphorylated (active) p38 MAPK. Human placenta (27), chorioamniotic membranes (14), myometrium (13), decidua (8), and cervix (1) were the studied tissues. p38 MAPK's functions were tissue and gestational age dependent. Isoform specificity was hardly reported. p38 MAPK activity was induced by ROS or proinflammatory cytokines to promote cell signaling linked to cell fate, primed uterus, ripened cervix, and proinflammatory cytokine/chemokine production. In 35 years, reports on p38 MAPK's role during pregnancy and parturition are scarce and current literature is insufficient to provide a comprehensive description of p38 MAPK's mechanistic role during pregnancy and parturition.
Combined diffusion tensor imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to predict neurological outcome before transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
Authors: Rudler Marika , Weiss Nicolas , Perlbarg Vincent , Mallet Maxime , Tripon Simona , Valabregue Romain , Marjańska Małgorzata , Cluzel Philippe , Galanaud Damien , Thabut Dominique
Published: September 2018

Background

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) may occur after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) placement. Multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), combining anatomical sequences, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy, is modified in cirrhotic patients.

Aims

To describe multimodal MRI images before TIPSS, to assess if TIPSS induces changes in multimodal MRI, and to find predictors of HE after TIPSS in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Consecutive cirrhotic patients with an indication for TIPSS were prospectively screened. Diagnosis of minimal HE was performed using psychometric HE test score. Multimodal MRI was performed before and 3 months after TIPSS placement.

Results

Twenty‐five consecutive patients were analysed (median age = 59, male gender 76%, median Child‐Pugh score = 8 [5‐8], MELD score = 12 [9‐17], indication for TIPSS placement: ascites/secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding/other 20/3/2), no HE/minimal HE/overt HE: 21/4/0. 8/25 patients developed HE after TIPSS. Before TIPSS placement, metabolite concentrations were different in patients with or without minimal HE (lower myo‐inositol, mI, higher glutamate/glutamine), but there were no differences in DTI data. TIPSS placement induced changes in metabolite concentrations even in asymptomatic patients, but not in DTI metrics. Baseline fractional anisotropy was significantly lower in patients who developed HE after TIPSS in five regions of interest.

Conclusions

TIPSS placement induced significant changes in cerebral metabolites, even in asymptomatic patients. Patients who developed HE after TIPSS displayed lower fractional anisotropy before TIPSS. Brain MRI with DTI acquisition may help selecting patients at risk of HE.
Millennial and centennial variations in zircon U‐Pb ages in the quaternary indus submarine canyon
Authors: Li Yuting , Clift Peter D. , O'Sullivan Paul
Published: September 2018

Use of deep‐water sediments in submarine fans to reconstruct changing erosion onshore is based on the premise of relatively simple transport between source and sink. However, debate continues regarding the degree of sediment buffering and recycling in the sediment transport process. In this study, we investigate the origin of sediment in the Indus Submarine Canyon since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM; ~20 ka) using zircon U‐Pb dates. Zircon grains in the submarine canyon are resolvably different from those at the river mouth, at least before 6.6 ka, implying a disconnection between the river mouth and the canyon up to that time. Sand may be stored near the river mouth as sea level rose, while finer‐grained sediment was directly transferred into deeper water. Since 1 ka the upper canyon has shown big and rapid provenance changes, most notably a sharp increase in erosion from Nanga Parbat, whose influence is minor in the modern river. Such rapid changes imply a lack of buffering in the recent past. The modern river contrasts with sediments in the canyon in terms of its zircon U‐Pb age populations and may be influenced by significant anthropogenic impact on the terrestrial drainage basin, especially damming.
A comparison of dental fluorosis in adult populations with and without lifetime exposure to water fluoridation
Authors: Macey Richard , Tickle Martin , MacKay Laura , McGrady Michael , Pretty Iain A.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

There is a lack of evidence on the proportion and severity of fluorosis in adult populations exposed and not exposed to fluoridated water over their lifetimes. The aim of this study was to compare the proportion and severity of fluorosis in adults with lifetime exposure to water fluoridation with a nonexposed sample. A secondary aim was to report the gradient of fluorosis severity by age.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study recruited a sample with lifetime exposure to water fluoridation and a matched, nonexposed group. 580 participants, aged 18‐52 years (mean 34.3, SD 9.4) and 64% female, were recruited in general dental practices located in fluoridated (Birmingham and County Durham) and nonfluoridated areas (Manchester). Three digital images were taken of their incisors and an experienced examiner who was blind to exposure status viewed the images remotely and allocated fluorosis scores using the Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF) scale.

Results

At TF ≥ 1 (any fluorosis), a significantly higher proportion of participants from the fluoridated area had fluorosis (F 39% NF 21.3%, P < 0.001), at the threshold TF ≥ 3 (“aesthetic concern”), the difference was no longer statistically significant (F 4.1%, NF 2.2%, P = 0.25). There was a gradient by age, whereby fluorosis was highest in the youngest and lowest in the oldest age group.

Conclusions

Although fluorosis is more common in adults with lifetime exposure to water fluoridation than those with no exposure, the aesthetic impact of fluorosis seems to diminish with age.
Serious case reviews: The lived experience of Black children
Authors: Bernard Claudia , Harris Perlita
Published: September 2018

Despite the many high‐profile Black child deaths in England, race as a factor remains a largely underexplored factor of serious case reviews (SCRs). Evidence from analysis of SCRs indicates that race receives limited attention, or is virtually absent. Given that the main function of SCRs is to provide opportunities for learning lessons to improve practice, the way in which issues of race and culture may influence child protection processes for Black children is therefore of critical importance. In this article, we employ content analysis to examine the extent that race and cultural factors are considered in SCRs involving Black children. It is argued that race is often an important factor influencing Black children's experiences of abuse and neglect, as well as their encounters in the child protection system. This article therefore poses two key questions: (a) What questions are asked about race, ethnicity, and culture in SCRs concerning Black children? (b) How did the SCRs extract lessons to be learnt for improving practice to safeguard Black children? By extending the analysis of race and ethnicity in SCRs, this article furthers our understandings of the needs of Black children in the child protection system.
Qualitative impact evaluation of a social marketing campaign for conservation
Authors: Salazar Gabby , Mills Morena , Veríssimo Diogo
Published: September 2018

Social marketing campaigns use marketing techniques to influence human behavior for the greater social good. In the conservation sector, social marketing campaigns have been used to influence behavior for the benefit of biodiversity as well as society. However, there are few evaluations of their effectiveness. We devised an approach for evaluating the influences of social marketing campaigns on human behavior and conservation outcomes. We used general elimination methodology, a theory‐driven qualitative evaluation method, to assess the long‐term impacts of a 1998 Rare Pride campaign on the island of Bonaire that was designed to increase the population of the Lora (Amazona barbadensis), a threatened parrot. We interviewed stakeholder groups to determine their perceptions of the drivers of the changes in the Lora population over time. We used these data to develop an overall theory of change to explain changes in the Lora population by looking at the overlap in hypotheses within and between stakeholder groups. We then triangulated that theory of change with evidence from government reports, peer‐reviewed literature, and newspapers. The increase in the Lora population was largely attributed to a decrease in illegal poaching of Loras and an associated decrease in local demand for pet Loras. Decreases in poaching and demand were likely driven by a combination of law enforcement, social marketing (including the Rare campaign), and environmental education in schools. General elimination methodology helped show how multiple interventions influenced a conservation outcome over time. There is a need for evidence‐based evaluations of social marketing interventions to ensure that limited resources are spent wisely.
The relation between leptin and inflammatory markers with respiratory and peripheral muscle strength in tuberculosis: A case–control study
Authors: Skupien Erika Cavalheiro , Lazzari Tássia Kirchmann , Coutinho Sandra Eugênia , Silva Denise Rossato
Published: September 2018

Background

Muscle weakness is a part of the wasting syndrome associated with TB. Cytokines are candidates as the initial causative agents of the metabolic changes in TB. The objective of this study is to assess the peripheral and respiratory muscle strength in patients with TB and controls and relate these findings with leptin, IL‐6 and TNF‐α serum levels.

Methods

Case–control study. Hospitalized patients with pulmonary TB and controls were included. Maximal voluntary handgrip strength (HS), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) were measured. Leptin, IL‐6 and TNF‐α dosage were performed.

Results

We included 35 cases and 35 controls. Leptin was lower and TNF‐α levels were higher in TB patients than in controls (P < .0001 for both). Body mass index (BMI), HS, MIP and MEP were all significantly lower in cases than in controls (P < .0001). Lower leptin and higher TNF‐α levels are associated with malnutrition and reduced MIP, MEP and HS. Patients who reported fever and those with positive culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis had higher serum levels of IL‐6.

Conclusion

Peripheral and respiratory muscle strength and leptin levels were reduced in patients with active TB. Lower levels of leptin and higher levels of TNF‐α were associated with malnutrition and with reduced MIP, MEP and HS.
Expression of hormone receptors, adipophilin, and GCDFP‐15 in mucinous carcinoma of the skin
Authors: Sung You‐Na , Park Chan‐Sik , Roh Jin , Choi Jong‐Woo , Choi Seung‐Ho , Lee Yoonse , Cho Kyung‐Ja
Published: September 2018

Background

Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma (PCMC) is a rare epithelial tumor with unclear histogenesis.

Methods

We evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and androgen receptor (AR) in six cases of PCMC. The immunoreactivity of adipophilin and gross cystic disease fluid protein (GCDFP)‐15 was investigated to determine the origin of the tumor.

Results

The study included five males and one female aged 50 to 69 years who presented with a cutaneous mass in the face. Immunoreactivity for ER, PR, and AR was observed in all cases, and all cases were negative for adipophilin but positive for GCDFP‐15.

Conclusions

This report is the first to show AR expression in PCMC. All of followed cases manifested indolent clinical course, and the prognostic significance of hormone receptors in PCMC remains unclear. The negative immunoreactivity of PCMC for adipophilin and positivity for GCDFP‐15 suggests a more likely relationship to apocrine than to sebaceous glands.
Diagnosis of autoimmune bullous diseases
Authors: van Beek Nina , Zillikens Detlef , Schmidt Enno
Published: September 2018

Autoimmune bullous disorders (AIBDs) are a heterogeneous group of rare diseases clinically characterized by erosions and/or blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. AIBDs can be categorized into two groups: pemphigus diseases, characterized by intraepidermal blistering and autoantibodies against desmosomal proteins such as desmoglein (Dsg) 1, Dsg3, members of the plakin family, and subepidermal AIBDs, comprised of pemphigoid diseases and dermatitis herpetiformis. Autoantibodies in dermatitis herpetiformis target transglutaminases 2 and 3, while in pemphigoid disease, autoantibodies are directed against structural proteins of the dermal‐epidermal junction. Although analysis of a perilesional biopsy with direct immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy is still the diagnostic gold standard, several assays have become widely available that allow serological diagnosis in the majority of patients. Standard serological diagnosis includes indirect IF on monkey esophagus and salt‐split human skin. Assays to further characterize autoantibody specificity include ELISA systems based on recombinant forms of the immunodominant regions of the target antigens as well as multivariant indirect IF microscopy tests with several miniature substrates. These serological assays are complemented by various in‐house assays using immunoblotting and ELISA, which are only available in specialized laboratories. Here we review new developments in the diagnosis of AIBDs and describe state‐of‐the‐art diagnostic procedures for this group of diseases.
Response to fragmentation by avian communities is mediated by species traits
Authors: Valente Jonathon J. , Betts Matthew G.
Published: September 2018

Aim

The hypothesis that habitat fragmentation negatively influences biodiversity stems from island biogeography and metapopulation theory which predict negative impacts of decreasing patch size on richness and distribution patterns. Empirical support of this idea is weak in terrestrial systems, though tests of fragmentation effects are typically confounded with landscape composition and potentially obscured by imperfect detection. Here, we used multispecies occupancy models and a mensurative experimental design to test competing hypotheses about how forest fragmentation influences distributions of breeding forest bird species and communities.

Location

Southern Indiana, USA.

Methods

During the breeding seasons of 2011–2013, we recorded over 80,000 bird detections in 202 forest fragments using a sampling design that isolated the effects of patch size per se from the effects of forest amount within a 2 km radius, edge distance, local vegetation and sampling area. We modelled the effects of these covariates on distributions of individual species categorized by ecological trait groups (i.e., forest, forest interior or forest edge), and evaluated how forest loss and fragmentation impact species richness.

Results

Though our results indicated little effect of patch size on total species richness, decreasing patch size had a negative effect on interior species, and a positive effect on edge species. The effects of total forest amount were much more variable, and surprisingly had a negative influence on many species, particularly cavity nesters.

Main conclusions

Our results do not support theoretical predictions that forest patch size should positively influence bird species richness. However, composition of bird communities shifted towards edge species from interior species with decreasing patch size. Maintaining large forest patches is thus critical for supporting forest interior species, which tend to be of the greatest conservation concern.
Gender and Adaptation to Climate Change: Perspectives from a Pastoral Community in Gujarat, India
Authors: Venkatasubramanian Kalpana , Ramnarain Smita
Published: September 2018

Adaptation of rural communities to climate change has garnered much attention recently. Within this body of knowledge, two omissions are notable: first, while adaptation and coping responses of agricultural communities to climate variability and extremes are discussed extensively in rural planning, pastoral and agro‐pastoral communities are neglected, homogenized, or considered ancillary to sedentarized agriculture. The mechanisms used by these communities to confront socio‐economic and institutional limitations to climate adaptation remain relatively unexamined. Second, not much is known about pastoral women's perceptions of climate adaptation and coping. This article examines the socially situated perspective of women in the Maldhari pastoral community in Gujarat, Western India. Findings reveal that climate adaptation pathways traditionally utilized by the Maldharis are constrained by the institutional, policy and social context in which the community is placed, with specific impacts on women. The lack of recourse to traditional adaptation pathways in the face of climate vulnerability triggers coping responses for survival, livelihoods and food security, which produce gendered burdens especially in terms of women's work. Local perspectives thus shed light on how constraints to climate adaptation impact women in marginalized pastoral communities.
Metformin is the key factor in elevated plasma growth differentiation factor‐15 levels in type 2 diabetes: A nested, case–control study
Authors: Natali Andrea , Nesti Lorenzo , Venturi Elena , Shore Angela C. , Khan Faisel , Gooding Kim , Gates Phillip E. , Looker Helen C. , Dove Fiona , Goncalves Isabel , Persson Margaretha , Nilsson Jan ,   on behalf of the SUMMIT consortium
Published: September 2018

Produced as a tissue defence response to hypoxia and inflammation, growth differentiation factor‐15 (GDF‐15) is elevated in people receiving metformin treatment. To gain insight into the relationship of GDF‐15 with metformin and major cardiovascular risk factors, we analysed the data from the SUMMIT cohort (n = 1438), a four‐centre, nested, case–control study aimed at verifying whether biomarkers of atherosclerosis differ according to the presence of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. While in univariate analysis, major cardiovascular risk factors, with the exception of gender and cholesterol, increased similarly and linearly across GDF‐15 quartiles, the independent variables associated with GDF‐15, both in participants with and without diabetes, were age, plasma creatinine, N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide, diuretic use, smoking exposure and glycated haemoglobin. In participants with diabetes, metformin treatment was associated with a 40% rise in GDF‐15 level, which was independent of the other major factors, and largely explained their elevated GDF‐15 levels. The relatively high GDF‐15 bioavailability might partly explain the protective cardiovascular effects of metformin.
Biofilms and their properties
Authors: Valen Håkon , Scheie Anne A.
Published: September 2018

Bacteria within the oral cavity live primarily as complex, polymicrobial biofilms. Dental biofilms are necessary etiological factors for dental caries and periodontal diseases but have also been implicated in diseases outside the oral cavity. Biofilm is the preferred lifestyle for bacteria, and biofilms are found on almost any surface in nature. Bacteria growing within a biofilm exhibit an altered phenotype. Substantial changes in gene expression occur when bacteria are in close proximity or physical contact with one another or with the host. This may facilitate nutritional co‐operation, cell–cell signaling, and gene transfer, including transfer of antibiotic‐resistance genes, thus rendering biofilm bacteria with properties other than those found in free‐floating, planktonic bacteria. We will discuss biofilm properties and possible consequences for future prophylaxis.
Geography and computers: Past, present, and future
Authors: Arribas‐Bel Dani , Reades Jon
Published: September 2018

The discipline of Geography has long been intertwined with the use of computers. This close interaction is likely to increase with the embeddedness of computers and concomitant growth of spatially referenced data. To better understand the current situation, and to be able to better speculate about the future, this article provides two parallel perspectives: first, we offer an historical perspective on the relationship between Geography and computers; second, we document developments—in particular the nascent field of data science—that are currently taking place outside of Geography and to which we argue the discipline should be paying close attention. Combining both perspectives, we identify the benefits of tighter integration between Geography and Data Science and argue for the establishment of a new space—that we term Geographic Data Science—in which cross‐pollination could occur to the benefit of both Geography and the larger data community.
Strategic coupling, state capitalism, and the shifting dynamics of global production networks
Authors: Lim Kean Fan
Published: September 2018

This paper critically evaluates the relationship between state capitalism and “strategic coupling” within global production networks (GPN). It underscores specifically the lack of cases on “coupling” involving state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) from developing countries and city‐regions within developed countries. Most existing studies focus on the connection between regions in developing economies with lead firms originating from developed economies. This leaves open a conceptual and empirical gap as SOEs from developing countries (like those of China and India) are (1) increasingly becoming lead firms in their own right and (2) investing in developed economies. Against this backdrop, this paper highlights conceptually significant points from the acquisition of Nexen, a Canada‐based oil and gas TNC, by CNOOC, a large Chinese SOE, and argues for a fresh research agenda that examines the strategic coupling of lead firms that are also SOEs from developing economies.
Multimorbidity among middle‐aged and older persons in urban China: Prevalence, characteristics and health service utilization
Authors: Chen He , Cheng Mengling , Zhuang Yu , Broad Joanna B
Published: September 2018

Aim

The knowledge on multimorbidity and its impact on healthcare systems is lacking in low‐ and middle‐income countries. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of multimorbidity, and analyze the health service use of middle‐aged and older persons with multimorbidity in urban China.

Methods

Study participants included 3737 urban residents aged ≥45 years from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2011. A total of 16 pre‐specified self‐reported chronic conditions were used to measure multimorbidity, which was defined as having two or more conditions. Logistic regression was used to analyze the characteristics and health service use of persons with multimorbidity. Analyses were weighted to adjust for sampling design and non‐response.

Results

Of the study population, 51.9% were men and 20.1% were aged >70 years. Hypertension (33.1%) was the most prevalent condition, followed by arthritis (25.4%), digestive disease (18.7%), dyslipidemia (18.3%) and heart disease (17.7%). The prevalence of multimorbidity was 45.5% (95% CI 41.4–49.7%). Multivariate analyses showed that the prevalence of multimorbidity was significantly higher in respondents who are older and socioeconomically disadvantaged than that in their counterparts. Multimorbid patients used 72.7% of outpatient services and 77.3% of inpatient services. After controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, health behavior and health insurance factors, condition counts still had a positive relationship with outpatient or inpatient service use.

Conclusions

The burden of multimorbidity is high among the middle‐aged and older urban Chinese population. Management of multimorbidity therefore deserves more attention from health policymakers, providers and educators of health professionals in China and in other low‐ and middle‐income countries. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1447–1452.
Cyberbullying, revenge porn and the mid‐sized university: Victim characteristics, prevalence and students' knowledge of university policy and reporting procedures
Authors: O'Connor Kimberly , Drouin Michelle , Davis Jedidiah , Thompson Hannah
Published: September 2018

In this study, we provide a snapshot of cyber abuse behaviours among students at a single, mid‐sized public commuter university in the United States. The goal of this study is to provide helpful information that can guide universities when creating cyber‐civility policies, information that is currently lacking in Higher Education. We examine recent university cases and relevant laws related to cyberbullying and revenge porn, survey student characteristics that are associated with this type of victimisation and make suggestions for language universities should consider when drafting their cyber abuse policies. Finally, we address the role of the university in protecting potential victims, training students on policies and reporting procedures, and intervening in incidents related to these types of cyber abuse.