bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distress in significant others of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Harris Kamelia , Band Rebecca J. , Cooper Hazel , Macintyre Vanessa G. , Mejia Anilena , Wearden Alison J.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The objective of this study was to systematically review existing empirical research assessing levels and correlates of distress in significant others of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME).

Methods

Systematic searches in CINAHL, Web of Science and PsycINFO were conducted in August 2014. The search was repeated in January 2015 to check for newly published articles. Studies published in English with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed designs exploring distress, poor subjective health, poor mental health, reduced quality of life and well‐being, and symptoms of depression and anxiety in significant others (>18 years) of children and adults with CFS/ME were included. Quality appraisal of included studies was carried out. Quantitative and qualitative studies were summarized separately.

Results

Six articles met eligibility criteria. Two quantitative studies with significant others of adult patients, and one quantitative and two mixed‐methods studies with significant others of child patients showed moderate to high levels of distress. One qualitative study (adult patients) found minimal evidence of distress and that acceptance of CFS/ME was related to better adjustment. In the quantitative and mixed‐methods studies, significant others who attributed some level of responsibility for symptoms to the patient, or who were female, or whose partners had poorer mental health, had higher levels of distress.

Conclusions

The small number of studies to date, the contrary evidence from a qualitative study, and the limited data available on levels of distress in significant others of patients with CFS/ME mean that our conclusion that distress levels are elevated is provisional. We recommend that future qualitative studies focus on this particular topic. Further longitudinal studies exploring correlates of distress within the context of a predictive theoretical model would be helpful.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) entails considerable economic, social, and personal costs.

Uncertainties exist around diagnosis and management.

This may lead to particular difficulties for significant others trying to support patients.

What does this study add?

Few studies have examined distress and its correlates in significant others of people with CFS/ME.

Significant others report elevated levels of distress on quantitative measures.
Proopiomelanocortin interference in the measurement of adrenocorticotrophic hormone: a United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service study
Authors: Monaghan P.J. , Kyriacou A. , Sturgeon C. , Davies A. , Trainer P.J. , White A. , Higham C.E.
Published: June 2016

Objective

It is recognized that measurement of ACTH‐precursor peptides including proopiomelanocortin (POMC) has clinical utility in identifying the aetiology of Cushing's syndrome. Recent data have also demonstrated cross‐reactivity of POMC in ACTH immunoassays used in clinical laboratories. The aim of this study was to assess the cross‐reactivity of POMC in the main commercial immunoassays for ACTH and to survey the awareness of laboratory professionals to this potential interference.

Method

To assess cross‐reactivity, specimens containing ACTH and/or POMC were prepared by the UK National External Quality Assessment Service (UK NEQAS) [Edinburgh]. A separate interpretative exercise was also sent to participating laboratories.

Results

Eighty‐seven laboratories measured ‘total’ ACTH (i.e. ACTH and/or POMC) in their assays. Cross‐reactivity of POMC varied from a mean of 1·6–4·7% (reflected in a large percentage increase in measured ACTH of up to 261% due to POMC cross‐reactivity) depending on the manufacturer. Major differences in the clinical interpretation of test results were observed in returned responses to the interpretative exercise.

Conclusion

An appraisal of POMC cross‐reactivity in currently available ACTH immunoassays has been achieved. Cross‐reactivity was sufficient to detect ACTH precursors at concentrations that could be found in patients with ectopic ACTH syndrome. These data will assist laboratories in interpreting results when assessing the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis. Endocrinologists and laboratory professionals should be aware of the degree of cross‐reactivity in ACTH immunoassay in order to minimize the risk of misinterpretation of results and/or potentially delayed treatment.
Mannitol clearance for the determination of glomerular filtration rate–a validation against clearance of 51Cr‐EDTA
Authors: Kiss Katalin , Molnár Miklós , Söndergaard Sören , Molnár Gyula , Ricksten Sven‐Erik
Published: June 2016

We studied the agreement between plasma clearance of mannitol and the reference method, plasma clearance of 51Cr‐EDTA in outpatients with normal to moderately impaired renal function. Forty‐one patients with a serum creatinine <200 μmol l−1 entered the study. 51Cr‐EDTA clearance was measured with the standard bolus injection technique and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated by the single‐sample method described by Jacobsson. Mannitol, 0·25 g kg−1 body weight (150 mg ml−1), was infused for 4–14 min and blood samples taken at 1‐, 2‐, 3‐ and 4‐h (n = 24) or 2‐, 3‐, 3·5‐ and 4‐h after infusion (n = 17). Mannitol in serum was measured by an enzymatic method. Plasma clearance for mannitol and its apparent volume of distribution (Vd) were calculated according to Brøchner‐Mortensen. Mean plasma clearance (±SD) for 51Cr‐EDTA was 59·7 ± 18·8 ml min−1. The mean plasma clearance for mannitol ranged between 57·0 ± 20·1 and 61·1 ± 16·7 ml min−1 and Vd was 21·3 ± 6·2% per kg b.w. The between‐method bias ranged between −0·23 and 2·73 ml min−1, the percentage error between 26·7 and 39·5% and the limits of agreement between −14·3/17·2 and −25·3/19·9 ml min−1. The best agreement was seen when three‐ or four‐sample measurements of plasma mannitol were obtained and when sampling started 60 min after injection. Furthermore, accuracy of plasma clearance determinations was 88–96% (P30) and 41–63% (P10) and was highest when three‐ or four‐sample measurements of plasma mannitol were obtained, including the first hour after the bolus dose. We conclude that there is a good agreement between plasma clearances of mannitol and 51Cr‐EDTA for the assessment of GFR.
Overall accuracy of cervical cytology and clinicopathological significance of LSIL cells in ASC‐H cytology
Authors: Kim S. H. , Lee J. M. , Yun H. G. , Park U. S. , Hwang S. U. , Pyo J.‐S. , Sohn J. H.
Published: June 2016

Objective

The aims of this study were (i) to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of Papanicolaou (Pap) smears and (ii) to evaluate the clinicopathological significance of the presence of low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) cells in atypical squamous cells cannot exclude high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) (ASC‐H) cytology.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed paired cytological and histological findings from 3141 patients. ASC‐H cytology was classified as either ASC‐H or LSIL with some features suggestive of the presence of a concurrent HSIL (LSIL‐H). Clinicopathological characteristics were evaluated through a retrospective study and meta‐analysis.

Results

The accuracy of the cytological diagnosis was 93.7% (2942 of 3141 cases). The positive predictive value (PPV) of ASC‐H for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN 2+ ) was 51.4%. In cases of LSIL‐H, CIN 2+ histology was more prevalent in the pre‐menopausal period (19–44 years) than in peri‐ and postmenopausal periods (older than 45 years) (P = 0.024). There was no difference in the ability of LSIL‐H and ASC‐H to predict CIN 2+.

Conclusion

The Pap smear is a good cervical cancer screening method. Although there was no difference in the predictive value for CIN 2+ between LSIL‐H and ASC‐H, the presence of definite LSIL cells was more predictive of CIN 2+ in younger patients than in older patients.
Specialization of the motor system in infancy: from broad tuning to selectively specialized purposeful actions
Authors: D'Souza Hana , Cowie Dorothy , Karmiloff‐Smith Annette , Bremner Andrew J.
Published: June 2016

In executing purposeful actions, adults select sufficient and necessary limbs. But infants often move goal‐irrelevant limbs, suggesting a developmental process of motor specialization. Two experiments with 9‐ and 12‐month‐olds revealed gradual decreases in extraneous movements in non‐acting limbs during unimanual actions. In Experiment 1, 9‐month‐olds produced more extraneous movements in the non‐acting hand/arm and feet/legs than 12‐month‐olds. In Experiment 2, analysis of the spatiotemporal dynamics of infants’ movements revealed developmental declines in the spatiotemporal coupling of movements between acting and non‐acting arms. We also showed that the degree of specialization in infants’ unimanual actions is associated with individual differences in motor experience and visual attention, indicating the experience‐dependent and broad functional nature of these developmental changes. Our study provides important new insights into motor development: as in cognitive domains, motor behaviours are initially broadly tuned to their goal, becoming progressively specialized during the first year of life.
Monitoring conformational heterogeneity of the lid of DnaK substrate‐binding domain during its chaperone cycle
Authors: Banerjee Rupa , Jayaraj Gopal Gunanathan , Peter Joshua Jebakumar , Kumar Vignesh , Mapa Koyeli
Published: June 2016

DnaK or Hsp70 of Escherichia coli is a master regulator of the bacterial proteostasis network. Allosteric communication between the two functional domains of DnaK, the N‐terminal nucleotide‐binding domain (NBD) and the C‐terminal substrate‐ or peptide‐binding domain (SBD) regulate its activity. X‐ray crystallography and NMR studies have provided snapshots of distinct conformations of Hsp70 proteins in various physiological states; however, the conformational heterogeneity and dynamics of allostery‐driven Hsp70 activity remains underexplored. In this work, we employed single‐molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (sm‐FRET) measurements to capture distinct intradomain conformational states of a region within the DnaK‐SBD known as the lid. Our data conclusively demonstrate prominent conformational heterogeneity of the DnaK lid in ADP‐bound states; in contrast, the ATP‐bound open conformations are homogeneous. Interestingly, a nonhydrolysable ATP analogue, AMP‐PNP, imparts heterogeneity to the lid conformations mimicking the ADP‐bound state. The cochaperone DnaJ confers ADP‐like heterogeneous lid conformations to DnaK, although the presence of the cochaperone accelerates the substrate‐binding rate by a hitherto unknown mechanism. Irrespective of the presence of DnaJ, binding of a peptide substrate to the DnaK‐SBD leads to prominent lid closure. Lid closure is only partial upon binding to molten globule‐like authentic cellular substrates, probably to accommodate non‐native substrate proteins of varied structures.
Conditional knockout of retinal determination genes in differentiating cells in Drosophila
Authors: Jin Meng , Eblimit Aiden , Pulikkathara Merlyn , Corr Stuart , Chen Rui , Mardon Graeme
Published: June 2016

Conditional gene knockout in postmitotic cells is a valuable technique which allows the study of gene function with spatiotemporal control. Surprisingly, in contrast to its long‐term and extensive use in mouse studies, this technology is lacking in Drosophila. Here, we use a novel method for generating complete loss of eyes absent (eya) or sine oculis (so) function in postmitotic cells posterior to the morphogenetic furrow (MF). Specifically, genomic rescue constructs with flippase recognition target (FRT) sequences flanking essential exons are used to generate conditional null alleles. By removing gene function in differentiating cells, we show that eya and so are dispensable for larval photoreceptor differentiation, but are required for differentiation during pupal development. Both eya and so are necessary for photoreceptor survival and the apoptosis caused by loss of eya or so function is likely a secondary consequence of inappropriate differentiation. We also confirm their requirement for cone cell development and reveal a novel role in interommatidial bristle (IOB) formation. In addition, so is required for normal eye disc morphology. This is the first report of a knockout method to study eya and so function in postmitotic cells. This technology will open the door to a large array of new functional studies in virtually any tissue and at any stage of development or in adults.
Evolutionary radiations of Proteaceae are triggered by the interaction between traits and climates in open habitats
Authors: Onstein Renske E. , Jordan Gregory J. , Sauquet Hervé , Weston Peter H. , Bouchenak‐Khelladi Yanis , Carpenter Raymond J. , Linder H. Peter
Published: June 2016

Aim

Ecologically driven diversification can create spectacular diversity in both species numbers and form. However, the prediction that the match between intrinsic (e.g. functional trait) and extrinsic (e.g. climatic niche) variables may lead to evolutionary radiation has not been critically tested. Here, we test this hypothesis in the Southern Hemisphere plant family Proteaceae, which shows a spectacular diversity in open mediterranean shrublands in the Southwest Australian Floristic Region (SWAFR) and the Cape Floristic Region (CFR). Species in the Proteaceae family occupy habitats ranging from tropical rain forests to deserts and are remarkably variable in leaf morphology.

Location

Southern Hemisphere.

Methods

We built a phylogenetic tree for 337 Proteaceae species (21% of the total), representing all main clades, climatic tolerances and morphologies, and collected leaf functional traits (leaf area, sclerophylly, leaf shape) for 261 species and climatic niche data for 1645 species. Phylogenetic generalized least squares regression and quantitative‐trait evolutionary model testing were used to investigate the evolutionary pathways of traits and climatic niches, and their effect on diversification rates.

Results

We found that divergent selection may have caused lineages in open vegetation types to evolve towards trait and climatic niche optima distinct from those in closed forests. Furthermore, we show that the interaction between open habitats, dry, warm and/or mediterranean climates, and small, sclerophyllous, toothed leaves increases net diversification rates in Proteaceae.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that the evolution of specific leaf adaptations may have allowed Proteaceae to adapt to variable climatic niches and diversify extensively in open ecosystems such as those in the CFR and SWAFR. This match between morphology and environment may therefore more generally lead to evolutionary radiation.
Cross‐sectional and prospective impact of reallocating sedentary time to physical activity on children's body composition
Authors: Sardinha Luís B. , Marques Adilson , Minderico Cláudia , Ekelund Ulf
Published: June 2016

Background

The amount of time children spend in sedentary behaviours may have adverse health effects.

Objective

To examine the substitution effects of displacing a fixed duration of sedentary time with physical activity (PA) on children's body composition.

Methods

We included 386 children (197 boys). Outcomes were body mass index, waist circumference, total body fat mass and trunk fat mass assessed by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Sedentary time and PA were measured with accelerometers. Data were analysed by isotemporal analyses estimating the effect of reallocating 15 and 30 min d−1 of sedentary time into light (light physical activity), and moderate‐to‐vigorous (MVPA) PA on body composition.

Results

Reallocating 15 and 30 min d−1 of sedentary time into MVPA was negatively associated with body fatness in cross‐sectional analyses. Prospectively, reallocating 30 min of sedentary time into 30 min of MVPA was negatively associated with waist circumference (β = −1.11, p < 0.05), trunk fat mass (β = −0.21, p < 0.05), and total body fat mass (β = −0.48, p < 0.05) at follow‐up (20 months). The magnitude of associations was half in magnitude and remained significant (p < 0.05) when reallocating 15 min of sedentary time into MVPA. Reallocating sedentary time into light physical activity was not related (p > 0.05) with body fatness outcomes.

Conclusions

Substituting sedentary time with MVPA using isotemporal analysis is associated with positive effects on body composition.
The Australian and New Zealand regional neurology training survey
Authors: McAulay‐Powell C. , Ranta A.
Published: June 2016

There is inequitably poorer access to specialist neurologists in regional areas. Recruitment could be improved if more neurology trainees chose to spend some time at regional training sites, which they currently appear to avoid for unclear reasons. We surveyed neurology advanced trainees to assess their attitudes and perceptions about regional training. Aside from innate geographical challenges, there are concerning negative perceptions of the impact of regional training on future metropolitan employment prospects. Minimisation of bias against regional trainees or even rewarding regional exposure would likely improve regional trainee and subsequent specialist recruitment.
Formation and Local Structure Analysis of High‐Valence Chromium Ion in Dicalcium Silicate
Authors: Suzuki Masanori , Umesaki Norimasa , Okajima Toshihiro , Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: June 2016

Dicalcium silicate (2CaO·SiO2) is a typical silicate compound that exists even at elevated temperatures. Different types of elements can be dispersed in dicalcium silicate to form a solid solution phase. However, the dispersion behavior of transition elements that can display different ionic valences is not well understood. Herein, we investigate the local structure of chromium ions dispersed in dicalcium silicate of different phase states under inert and air atmospheres using Cr K‐edge X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy and first‐principle calculations. The measured XANES spectra indicated that Cr ions exist as high‐valence states when dispersed in dicalcium silicate in air atmosphere. Specifically, Cr6+ ions were detected in γ‐dicalcium silicate, which was prepared by annealing a mixture of 2CaO·SiO2 and Cr2O3 at 973 K in air atmosphere. In addition, the XANES spectra obtained via first‐principle calculations revealed that Cr ions, with high‐valence states between Cr4+ and Cr6+, in dicalcium silicate, occupy the tetrahedral Si4+ sites.
Strategic and Operational Determinants of Relationship Outcomes With New Venture Suppliers
Authors: Zaremba Boris W. , Bode Christoph , Wagner Stephan M.
Published: June 2016

While the vast majority of the supplier selection and development literature has focused on relationships between mature, established firms, significantly less attention has been paid to relationships between established firms and new, entrepreneurial ventures. This study addresses this important topic and, using an interdisciplinary lens, investigates the question of how established buying firms can work with new ventures to achieve desired relationship outcomes. Drawing on the literature from the disciplines of entrepreneurship and supply chain management, we propose a theoretical model that links buying firms' strategic orientation in supplier selection (innovation and cost in strategic supplier selection) and operational approach in supplier development (direct and indirect development of new venture suppliers) with new venture‐specific relationship outcomes (purchasing volume and realized innovations). The model's predictions are tested on cross‐sectional survey data from 136 buying firms. Our results contribute to the emerging research stream at the supply chain management–entrepreneurship interface and enhance the understanding of relationships between established firms and new ventures.
Early Detection of Symptomatic Paroxysmal Cardiac Arrhythmias by Trans‐Telephonic ECG Monitoring: Impact on Diagnosis and Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: ANCZYKOWSKI JOHANNA , WILLEMS STEPHAN , HOFFMANN BORIS A. , MEINERTZ THOMAS , BLANKENBERG STEFAN , PATTEN MONICA
Published: June 2016

Trans‐Telephonic ECG Monitoring for the Detection of CA

Introduction

Diagnosis of infrequent cardiac arrhythmias (CA) is often unsuccessful using resting or Holter ECG. As early detection and treatment of CA, especially atrial fibrillation (AF), has implications on patients’ treatment and outcome, we investigated, whether self‐guided, trans‐telephonic event‐recorder monitoring (Tele‐ECG) improves diagnosis and influences treatment options.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2014, 790 patients (54 ± 18 years, 40% male; no history of CA: 582, known AF: 179, other CA: 29) presented with recurrent symptoms suggestive of CA and were screened by Tele‐ECG (17.3 ± 26.9 days). A total of 11,775 ECGs were transmitted via a 24‐hour telephone hotline including documentation of the respective symptoms.

Results

In 73% of patients, CA was documented at the time of symptoms: sinus tachycardia 23%, premature ventricular beats 19%, AF 14%, supraventricular tachycardia 9%, sinus bradycardia 5%, sinus arrhythmia 2%, and AV block II 1%. The mean time until the first symptomatic episode occurred was 6.9 ± 15.3 days (median 2.5 days). The first documented arrhythmia occurred on average after 7.7 ± 14.1 days (median 3 days). In patients with AF (n = 110), 44% was newly diagnosed. According to the Tele‐ECG diagnosis, AF ablation was performed in 27% of these patients, 7% electrical cardioversion, and in 30% antiarrhythmic therapy was initiated. In 65% of the patients with recurrence of known AF, (re‐)ablation was performed or recommended and in 16% antiarrhythmic therapy was modified.

Conclusions

Tele‐ECG monitoring is effective in the diagnosis of suspected symptomatic CA. A diagnosis can usually be achieved within 1 week and has implications on patients’ care.
Nonadherence to Recommended Guidelines for Blood Pressure Measurement
Authors: Levy Jack , Gerber Linda M. , Wu Xian , Mann Samuel J.
Published: June 2016

Accuracy of blood pressure readings, both in the physician's office and at home, is crucial in properly managing hypertension. Few studies have investigated adherence to measurement guidelines. This study focused on two important aspects of blood pressure measurement: waiting time before measurement and number of readings taken. A total of 103 patients completed self‐report questionnaires about office and home blood pressure measurements, with 77% reporting that physician measurements were obtained without waiting, and 56% reporting that only one reading was obtained. The proportions were even higher when measured by a nurse/technician, 96% and 81%, respectively. Home readings were taken without waiting by 60%, and 40% reported taking only a single reading. Most patients received no measurement instructions. Nonadherence to measurement guidelines is common, and may be affecting the validity of readings obtained both in physicians' offices and at home, with significant and potentially harmful effects on treatment decisions.
Bone Mineral Density Is Negatively Associated With Arterial Stiffness in Men With Hypertension
Authors: Li Xue‐song , He Hui , Zhao Yi‐lin , Li Ying , Liu Zhi‐ping , Liu Tiemin , Zhang Yong , Yu Kai‐jiang , Wang Rui‐tao
Published: June 2016

Hypertension (HTN) and osteoporosis are associated with the development and progress of atherosclerosis. However, little research has been conducted to examine the relationship between arterial stiffness and bone mineral density (BMD) in men with HTN. This cross‐sectional study recruited 355 men with HTN and 353 control patients without HTN. Brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and BMD measurements were performed. BMD was decreased and baPWV was elevated in patients with HTN compared with control patients (femoral neck [FN] BMD in the HTN and control groups were 0.662±0.195 g/cm2 and 0.713±0.204 g/cm2, respectively [P=.001], and baPWV in the HTN and control groups were 1403.3±156.8 cm/s and 1354.8±136.0 cm/s, respectively [P<.001]). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that FN BMD was negatively associated with increased baPWV in HTN. Reduced FN BMD may be an independent factor for baPWV in patients with HTN.
Microgobius meekias a potential bio‐indicator of habitat disturbance in shallow estuarine areas: a useful tool for the assessment of estuarine quality
Authors: Reis‐Filho J. A. , Giarrizzo T.
Published: June 2016

The relationships between changes in habitat quality (disturbed and undisturbed sites) and the population parameters (density, size distribution, reproductive activity and diet) of a gobyMicrogobius meekiwere investigated in a tropical estuary to assess its value as an indicator of anthropogenic changes, predominantly the effects of sedimentation and mangrove removal in shallow estuarine areas. Fish sampling surveys were conducted bimonthly between June 2009 and May 2010 over the entire estuarine gradient of the Paraguaçu River estuary, located on the central Brazilian coast. A predictive model was developed to assess the population changes of this species in 10 other tropical estuaries with different dimensions, basin features and distinct levels of anthropogenic disturbance. General linear models were used to relate the population structure ofM. meekito sediment type, habitat type resulting from mangrove conservation status, anthropogenic pressure and environmental characteristics such as salinity, dissolved oxygen concentrations and temperature. Sediment type and the presence of mangrove forests were the most effective predictors of local variability in the population structure ofM. meeki. Individuals with mature gonads and high rates of feeding activity were associated predominantly with undisturbed habitats. Estuaries and estuarine sectors with high levels of sedimentation in shallow marginal areas, anthropogenic pressure from domestic and industrial effluents, and evidence of mangrove deforestation yielded the lowest capture rates of both juvenile and adultM. meeki. Based on these findings,M. meekiis identified as a potential indicator of the consequences of anthropogenic disturbance in transitional waters. A simple, but efficient collection protocol, in which overt signs of distress can be promptly observed is proposed. Testing the generality of this approach across different systems might prove useful in a broader conservation biology context.
DESIGNING A PROPER HEDGE: THEORY VERSUS PRACTICE
Authors: Jiang Chao , Kawaller Ira G. , Koch Paul D.
Published: June 2016

Determining the hedge ratio based on the slope coefficient of a regression on price changes suffers from several critical shortcomings. First, it is difficult to assemble a properly constructed data set. Second, results vary depending on the length of the change interval. Third, the resulting ex post effective prices realized under this approach are wholly uncertain, ex ante. We show that when the hedge ratio is determined with reference to a regression on the respective price levels, rather than price changes, the resulting hedge ratio solution is superior in that none of these shortcomings apply.
Incorporating albumin–bilirubin grade into the cancer of the liver Italian program system for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chan Anthony W H , Chong Charing C N , Mo Frankie K F , Wong John , Yeo Winnie , Johnson Philip J , Yu Shuangni , Lai Paul B S , Chan Anthony T C , To Ka‐Fai , Chan Stephen L
Published: June 2016

Background and Aims

The albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) grade is a recently emerging alternative of the Child–Pugh (CP) grade. The Cancer of the Liver Italian Program (CLIP) was demonstrated to be a useful prognostic model for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in large prospective cohorts. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of substituting the CP grade by the ALBI grade in the CLIP system and compare the prognostic performance with other existing staging systems.

Methods

A large cohort of 1973 Chinese patients with HCC was recruited to evaluate the prognostic performance of CP‐based CLIP (CP‐CLIP) and ALBI‐based CLIP (ALBI‐CLIP) systems and nine other staging systems by homogeneity likelihood chi‐square, c‐index, and corrected Akaike information criterion.

Results

The ALBI‐CLIP system provided comparable prognostic performance than the CP‐CLIP system, which was indicated by homogeneity likelihood chi‐squares (ALBI‐CLIP 1186.35 vs CP‐CLIP 1145.54), c‐indices (ALBI‐CLIP 0.789 vs CP‐CLIP 0.785) and AICs (ALBI‐CLIP 15 493.47 vs CP‐CLIP 15 534.28). Among 11 staging systems, ALBI‐CLIP and CP‐CLIP systems were associated with the highest homogeneity chi‐squares and c‐indices, and the lowest corrected Akaike information criterion. Patients in ALBI‐CLIP score 0–4 had better median survival than those in corresponding CP‐CLIP score.

Conclusions

The ALBI grade performs as well as the CP grade when integrating into the CLIP system. ALBI‐CLIP and CP‐CLIP systems are the most accurate prognostic models among 11 existing staging systems.
IPO and Aftermarket Performance of Single‐Listed Chinese ADRs
Authors: Cao‐Alvira José J. , Rodríguez Javier
Published: June 2016

This paper analyzes the post‐IPO and long‐run aftermarket performances of single‐listed Chinese ADRs during the 2004–2010 period. Single‐listed ADRs are traded daily in major exchanges in the United States, but their underlying shares are not traded in the issuer's home market. Our results show that over the short‐run, buy‐and‐hold abnormal returns of single‐listed Chinese ADRs following their IPO are not significantly different from the typical post‐IPO performance of stocks in U.S. exchanges, including that of traditional dual‐listed Chinese ADRs. Nevertheless, over the longer horizon, the excess returns of a portfolio composed solely of single‐listed Chinese ADRs outperform a portfolio of dual‐listed Chinese ADRs, but underperform a benchmark portfolio composed of U.S. firms matched on the basis of their IPO date. We also find that the portfolio formed solely of single‐listed Chinese ADRs exhibits significantly distinct loadings on the common portfolio factors from the portfolio formed of dual‐listed Chinese ADRs and from the benchmark portfolio of U.S. stocks.
Acting in Solidarity: Cross‐Group Contact between Disadvantaged Group Members and Advantaged Group Allies
Authors: Droogendyk Lisa , Wright Stephen C. , Lubensky Micah , Louis Winnifred R.
Published: June 2016

The actions of advantaged group activists (sometimes called “allies”) are admirable, and they likely make meaningful contributions to the movements they support. However, a nuanced understanding of the role of advantaged group allies must also consider the potential challenges of their participation. Both in their everyday lives and during their activist work, advantaged group allies are especially likely to have direct contact with disadvantaged group members. This article considers when such contact may harm rather than help resistance movements by disadvantaged groups. We also suggest that to avoid these undermining effects, advantaged group allies must effectively communicate support for social change, understand the implications of their own privilege, offer autonomy‐oriented support, and resist the urge to increase their own feelings of inclusion by co‐opting relevant marginalized social identities.
Institutional Allyship for LGBT Equality: Underlying Processes and Potentials for Change
Authors: Russell Glenda M. , Bohan Janis S.
Published: June 2016

Discussions of outgroup activism in support of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality reflect two shortcomings. First, such discussions generally present uncritically positive views of ally activism; second, research on ally activism has overly focused on individual allies. The aim of this article is twofold: to suggest that action toward LGBT equality may often be influenced by sexual prejudice and may thus recapitulate longstanding power dynamics between majority and sexual minority groups, and to expand our understanding of ally behavior beyond individuals by presenting an ethnographic study exploring the development of institutional ally identity in a mainstream church that underwent a marked shift from an explicit anti‐LGBT to an expressly LGBT‐supportive stance. The study employed critical discourse analysis to examine interview, textual, and participant‐observation data. Dimensions of individual and institutional ally activism, and potential pitfalls in each, are explored. Suggestions for promoting more constructive collective action are offered.
The Food Colloid Principle in the Design of Elderly Food
Authors: Nishinari Katsuyoshi , Takemasa Makoto , Brenner Tom , Su Lei , Fang Yapeng , Hirashima Madoka , Yoshimura Miki , Nitta Yoko , Moritaka Hatsue , Tomczynska‐Mleko Marta , Mleko Stanisław , Michiwaki Yukihiro
Published: June 2016

It is necessary to control the rheological properties of bolus to prevent aspiration. To know the risk of aspiration for each person with difficulty in mastication and swallowing, it will be effective to use a test fluid which enables doctors to judge the safe range of the viscosity based on videofluorography. Since the knowledge of dominant factors which govern rheology is required, effects of shear rate, cooling rate, concentration of polysaccharides, coexisting seasonings on viscosity and viscoelasticity are overviewed. Since chemical senses are also known to affect the swallowing behavior, the relation between texture and flavor release is described briefly. Mixture of polysaccharides, proteins and fluid gels are overviewed as texture modifiers. Acoustic analysis of swallowing, extrusion method, a falling needle viscometer, tribological study on frictional coefficient of bolus are also described as each method is expected to be a useful tool to understand the complicated aspect of the disorder in mastication and deglutition. Mastication and swallowing of minced foods and model food gels are also described. Finally, the importance of the communication and collaboration between different disciplines is emphasized.

Practical Applications

Polysaccharides have been used to modify the texture of foods. It is necessary to know how these polysaccharides influence the swallowing behavior to design foods for elderly. Since the texture of foods is influenced by taste, aroma and conversely these are influenced by texture, the knowledge on the relation between texture and flavor release is crucial to manipulate the foods to reduce the risk of aspiration. Some examples which are expected to be helpful to design foods for elderly are shown.
Lasting Temperature Effects on the Muscle Tissue, Body Growth, and Fillet Texture of Adult Turbots, Scophthalmus maximus L.
Authors: Ayala Maria D. , Hernández‐Urcera Jorge , Santaella Marina , Cal Rosa
Published: June 2016

Three groups of turbot, Scophthalmus maximus L., were reared at three different temperatures (Ts) from hatching until 150 d posthatching: warm (21–22 C), ambient (17–18 C), and cold T (15–16 C). Later on, all of them were transferred at ambient T until the end of the experiment (1.8 yr of age, at commercial size: ≈1.5 kg and 40 cm) in order to study the long‐term T effect on the growth. At 1 yr of age, almost all the muscle and body parameters were greater in the warm than in the rest of the groups. At 1.8 yrs of age, the reverse situation was found, such that almost all the muscle and body parameters were higher in the cold than in the rest of the groups, thus showing a compensatory growth in the cold group. In relation to the texture parameters, most of them did not show significant differences among the groups. In relation to the sex influence, the size of muscle fibers was lower in the female than in the male fish, whereas the number and the muscle fiber density were generally higher in female than in male fish. The texture parameters did not show significant sex influence.
Effect of Salinity on Embryonic Development of the Cuttlefish Sepia pharaonis
Authors: Peng Rui‐Bing , Wang Peng‐Shuai , Jiang Mao‐Wang , Ruan Peng , Han Qing‐Xi , Jiang Xia‐Min
Published: June 2016

The effect of salinity on the embryonic development of Sepia pharaonis eggs was tested experimentally using S. pharaonis embryos at various developmental stages. The hatching rate, incubation period, hatching period, wet weight of hatchling cuttlefish, and yolk utilization efficiency ratio were quantified at salinities of 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, and 36. These variables were significantly affected by salinity. The weight of the eggs first decreased and then increased during embryonic development. The range of suitable salinities for hatching of S. pharaonis eggs was 27–33, and the optimal salinity was 30.
Constitution‐writing, nationalism and the Turkish experience
Authors: Bayar Yeşim
Published: June 2016

Until recently there has been relatively little attention paid to the question of how the relationship between the state, its citizens and the nation is articulated in constitutional texts. This paper seeks to address this gap through an examination of how the rules of belonging to the nation are discussed by the political elite and how these discussions find their final formulation in the constitutional texts. The analysis focuses on the Turkish case at two constitution‐writing moments (1924 and 1961). While such moments have conventionally been assumed to be ‘revolutionary’, the data on Turkey highlights continuities rather than radical changes over time. More particularly, it underscores the resilience and salience of the principle of nationalism over time.
Jesus – ‘Our Wisest and Dearest Friend’: Aquinas and Moral Transformation
Authors: Ryan Thomas
Published: June 2016

This article joins others in assessing the role of Christ in the moral theology of Thomas Aquinas. It investigates one specific phrase in the Summa Theologiae in four stages. First, there are some foundational considerations of Aquinas's overall framework. Second, I examine the evidence supporting Aquinas's original description of Jesus as our ‘dearest friend’ and as further disclosed in the Tertia Pars, specifically in His Passion and in His role as Teacher. Third, this leads to a consideration of Jesus as ‘wisest’ as the Incarnate Word and Wisdom. Fourth, I probe this sapiential aspect further in terms of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, specifically, that of wisdom, and, in particular, as construed in recent work on the second person perspective and Joint Attention. By investigating this phrase of Aquinas, it emerges that its sapiential, soteriological and inter-personal character is illuminated further by its Christological and ecclesial dimensions.
Adenylate cyclase 3: a new target for anti‐obesity drug development
Authors: Wu L. , Shen C. , Seed Ahmed M. , Östenson C.‐G. , Gu H. F.
Published: June 2016

Obesity has become epidemic worldwide, and abdominal obesity has a negative impact on health. Current treatment options on obesity, however, still remain limited. It is then of importance to find a new target for anti‐obesity drug development based upon recent molecular studies in obesity. Adenylate cyclase 3 (ADCY3) is the third member of adenylyl cyclase family and catalyses the synthesis of cAMP from ATP. Genetic studies with candidate gene and genome‐wide association study approaches have demonstrated that ADCY3 genetic polymorphisms are associated with obesity in European and Chinese populations. Epigenetic studies have indicated that increased DNA methylation levels in the ADCY3 gene are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity. Furthermore, biological analyses with animal models have implicated that ADCY3 dysfunction resulted in increased body weight and fat mass, while reduction of body weight is partially explained by ADCY3 activation. In this review, we describe genomic and biological features of ADCY3, summarize genetic and epigenetic association studies of the ADCY3 gene with obesity and discuss dysfunction and activation of ADCY3. Based upon all data, we suggest that ADCY3 is a new target for anti‐obesity drug development. Further investigation on the effectiveness of ADCY3 activator and its delivery approach to treat abdominal obesity has been taken into our consideration.
Nitric oxide‐fixation by non‐symbiotic haemoglobin proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana under N‐limited conditions
Authors: Kuruthukulangarakoola Gitto Thomas , Zhang Jiangli , Albert Andreas , Winkler Barbro , Lang Hans , Buegger Franz , Gaupels Frank , Heller Werner , Michalke Bernhard , Sarioglu Hakan , Schnitzler Jörg‐Peter , Hebelstrup Kim Henrik , Durner Jörg , Lindermayr Christian
Published: June 2016

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signalling molecule that is involved in many different physiological processes in plants. Here, we report about a NO‐fixing mechanism in Arabidopsis, which allows the fixation of atmospheric NO into nitrogen metabolism. We fumigated Arabidopsis plants cultivated in soil or as hydroponic cultures during the whole growing period with up to 3 ppmv of NO gas. Transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic analyses were used to identify non‐symbiotic haemoglobin proteins as key components of the NO‐fixing process. Overexpressing non‐symbiotic haemoglobin 1 or 2 genes resulted in fourfold higher nitrate levels in these plants compared with NO‐treated wild‐type. Correspondingly, rosettes size and weight, vegetative shoot thickness and seed yield were 25, 40, 30, and 50% higher, respectively, than in wild‐type plants. Fumigation with 250 ppbv 15NO confirmed the importance of non‐symbiotic haemoglobin 1 and 2 for the NO‐fixation pathway, and we calculated a daily uptake for non‐symbiotic haemoglobin 2 overexpressing plants of 250 mg N/kg dry weight. This mechanism is probably important under conditions with limited N supply via the soil. Moreover, the plant‐based NO uptake lowers the concentration of insanitary atmospheric NOx, and in this context, NO‐fixation can be beneficial to air quality.
Resourcing ecological restoration: the legal context for commercial initiatives
Authors: Richardson Benjamin J.
Published: June 2016

Ecological restoration often depends on substantial funding to be initiated and sustained. So far, the dominant strategies to fund it have been philanthropic altruism or regulatory compulsion. Both make important contributions, but the commercial sector is a further source that has thus far not played a significant role relative to its potential. Just as philanthropic and regulatory strategies are both modulated by the law, so too law shapes the commercial sector's participation in ecological restoration. Corporate law and its market context are particularly significant, and they are both a potential hindrance and opportunity. Some options for law reform are available to improve the contribution of the business sector to restoration.
Wheat PR‐1 proteins are targeted by necrotrophic pathogen effector proteins
Authors: Breen Susan , Williams Simon J. , Winterberg Britta , Kobe Bostjan , Solomon Peter S.
Published: June 2016

Recent studies have identified that proteinaceous effectors secreted by Parastagonospora nodorum are required to cause disease on wheat. These effectors interact in a gene‐for‐gene manner with host‐dominant susceptibilty loci, resulting in disease. However, whilst the requirement of these effectors for infection is clear, their mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. A yeast‐two‐hybrid library approach was used to search for wheat proteins that interacted with the necrotrophic effector SnTox3. Using this strategy we indentified an interaction between SnTox3 and the wheat pathogenicity‐related protein TaPR‐1‐1, and confirmed it by in‐planta co‐immunprecipitation. PR‐1 proteins represent a large family (23 in wheat) of proteins that are upregulated early in the defence response; however, their function remains ellusive. Interestingly, the P. nodorum effector SnToxA has recently been shown to interact specifically with TaPR‐1‐5. Our analysis of the SnTox3–TaPR‐1 interaction demonstrated that SnTox3 can interact with a broader range of TaPR‐1 proteins. Based on these data we utilised homology modeling to predict, and validate, regions on TaPR‐1 proteins that are likely to be involved in the SnTox3 interaction. Precipitating from this work, we identified that a PR‐1‐derived defence signalling peptide from the C‐terminus of TaPR‐1‐1, known as CAPE1, enhanced the infection of wheat by P. nodorum in an SnTox3‐dependent manner, but played no role in ToxA‐mediated disease. Collectively, our data suggest that P. nodorum has evolved unique effectors that target a common host‐protein involved in host defence, albeit with different mechanisms and potentially outcomes.
TRUNCATION ARTIFACT IN MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGES OF THE CANINE SPINAL CORD
Authors: Gregori Tommaso , Lam Richard , Priestnall Simon L. , Lamb Christopher R.
Published: June 2016

The truncation artifact in magnetic resonance (MR) images is a line of abnormal signal intensity that occurs parallel to an interface between tissues of markedly different signal intensity. In order to demonstrate the truncation artifact in sagittal images of the canine spinal cord and the effect of changing spatial resolution, we conducted an experimental in vitro study. A section of fixed canine spinal cord was imaged using a 1.5T magnet. Spatial resolution was increased by increasing the acquisition matrix and reconstruction matrix, producing series of T2‐weighted (T2w) images with the following pixel sizes: A, 1.6 (vertical) × 2.2 mm2 (horizontal); B, 1.2 × 1.7 mm2; C, 0.8 × 1.1 mm2; D, 0.4 × 0. 6 mm2. Plots of mean pixel value across the cord showed variations in signal intensity compatible with truncation artifact, which appeared as a single, wide central hyperintense zone in low‐resolution images and as multiple narrower zones in high spatial resolution images. Even in images obtained using the highest spatial resolution available for the MR system, the edge of the spinal cord was not accurately defined and the central canal was not visible. The experiment was repeated using an unfixed spinal cord specimen with focal compression applied to mimic a pathologic lesion. Slight hyperintensity was observed within the spinal cord at the site of compression although the cord was normal histologically. Results of this study suggest that caution should be applied when interpreting hyperintensity affecting the spinal cord in T2w sagittal images of clinical patients because of the possibility that the abnormal signal could represent a truncation artifact.
Imaging mass spectrometry for accessing molecular changes during burn wound healing
Authors: Taverna Domenico , Pollins Alonda C. , Sindona Giovanni , Caprioli Richard M. , Nanney Lillian B.
Published: June 2016

The spatiotemporal analysis of the proteomic profile during human wound healing is a critical investigative step that can establish the complex interplay of molecular events that comprise the local response to burn injury. Partial‐thickness wound samples with adjacent “normal” skin were collected from twenty‐one patients with burn wounds and examined across a time spectrum ranging from the acute injury period at 3, 6, 11 days to the later hypertrophic scar period at 7 and 15 months. The techniques used for histology‐directed tissue analyses highlighted inflammatory protein markers at the early time points after injury with diminished expression as burn wounds progressed into the proliferative phase. The datasets show the usefulness of MALDI MS and imaging mass spectrometry as discovery approaches to identify and map the cutaneous molecular sequence that is activated in response to the unique systemic inflammatory response following burn trauma. This information has the potential to define the unique factors that predispose human burn victims to disfiguring hypertrophic scar formation.