bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Respondent Characteristics on the Validity of Self‐Reported Survey Responses
Authors: Guerard Barbara , Omachonu Vincent , Harvey Raymond A. , Hernandez S. Robert , Sen Bisakha
Published: September 2015

Objective

To examine concordance between member self‐reports and the organization's administrative claims data for two key health factors: number of chronic conditions, and number of prescription drugs.

Data

Medicare Advantage plan claims data and member survey data from 2011 to 2012.

Design

Mailed surveys to 15,000 members, enrolled minimum 6 months, drawn from a random sample of primary care physician practices with at least 200 members.

Methods

Descriptive statistics were generated for extent of concordance. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to analyze the association of selected respondent characteristics with likelihood of concordance.

Findings

Concordance for number of chronic conditions was 58.4 percent, with 27.3 percent under‐reporting, 14.2 percent over‐reporting. Concordance for number of prescription drugs was 56.6 percent with 38.9 percent under‐reporting, 4.5 percent over‐reporting. Number of prescriptions and assistance in survey completion were associated with higher likelihood of concordance for chronic conditions. Assistance in survey completion and number of chronic conditions were associated with higher concordance, and age and number of prescriptions were associated with lower concordance, for prescription drugs.

Conclusions

Self‐reported number of chronic conditions and prescription medications are not in high concordance with claims data. Health care researchers and policy makers using patient self‐reported data should be aware of these potential biases.
A stop‐gain in the laminin, alpha 3 gene causes recessive junctional epidermolysis bullosa in Belgian Blue cattle
Authors: Sartelet Arnaud , Harland Chad , Tamma Nico , Karim Latifa , Bayrou Calixte , Li Wanbo , Ahariz Naima , Coppieters Wouter , Georges Michel , Charlier Carole
Published: September 2015

Four newborn purebred Belgian Blue calves presenting a severe form of epidermolysis bullosa were recently referred to our heredo‐surveillance platform. SNP array genotyping followed by autozygosity mapping located the causative gene in a 8.3‐Mb interval on bovine chromosome 24. Combining information from (i) whole‐genome sequencing of an affected calf, (ii) transcriptomic data from a panel of tissues and (iii) a list of functionally ranked positional candidates pinpointed a private G to A nucleotide substitution in the LAMA3 gene that creates a premature stop codon (p.Arg2609*) in exon 60, truncating 22% of the corresponding protein. The LAMA3 gene encodes the alpha 3 subunit of the heterotrimeric laminin‐332, a key constituent of the lamina lucida that is part of the skin basement membrane connecting epidermis and dermis layers. Homozygous loss‐of‐function mutations in this gene are known to cause severe junctional epidermolysis bullosa in human, mice, horse, sheep and dog. Overall, our data strongly support the causality of the identified gene and mutation.
Geoeconomics in the Long War
Authors: Morrissey John
Published: September 2015

In Neil Smith's American Empire (2003, University of California Press), he makes the case that the current moment of US global ambition is characterized by a network of imperial power that is “exercised in the first place through the world market and only secondarily, when and if necessary, in geopolitical terms”. For Smith, it was crucial that in the din of US geopolitics in the post‐9/11 period we did not lose sight of “the deeper geo‐economic aspiration for global control”, in a “war on terror” that is really a war to “fill in the interstices of globalization” (p xiv). In American Empire, Smith identified three moments of US global ambition over the last century. In this paper, I extend back the starting point for Smith's third moment to a period in the 1990s when United States Central Command (CENTCOM) became fully operational in the military‐economic securitization of the most pivotal region on earth, what it terms the “Central Region”. By drawing on the concept of “geoeconomics”, which Smith increasingly used in his later writing, I show how CENTCOM's mission from the outset can be most aptly described as one of “geoeconomic deterrence”. I highlight in particular how enabling commercial markets has been a key element of grand strategy in what CENTCOM calls its “long war” in the Middle East and Central Asia. In addition, I outline recent calls for the US military to become further and more broadly involved in what some commentators have called “messy capitalism”. I ask the question what kind of capitalism and in whose interests, before concluding by reflecting upon Neil Smith's assessment of the fated contradictions of contemporary US imperial ambition.
The Tight Dialectic: The Anthropocene and the Capitalist Production of Nature
Authors: Millar Susan W.S. , Mitchell Don
Published: September 2015

In this essay we examine the case of Kivalina, Alaska, twice threatened with destruction, in order to understand the importance of the specifically geological concept of the Anthropocene. We argue that the Anthropocene is best understood as part of what Neil Smith called a “tight dialectic” between the history of geography (the production of environmental knowledge) and historical geography (the production of nature and space) as this dialectic is played out within capitalist modes of production. We focus on the relationship between contemporary geo‐engineering and both intentional and unintentional geographical engineering, to make the basic argument that humans have no choice but to produce nature—to engineer environments. The only question is how we shall do so.
Non‐invasive screening of diabetics in primary care for NAFLD and advanced fibrosis by MRI and MRE
Authors: Doycheva I. , Cui J. , Nguyen P. , Costa E. A. , Hooker J. , Hofflich H. , Bettencourt R. , Brouha S. , Sirlin C. B. , Loomba R.
Published: September 2015

Background

Current guidelines do not recommend screening for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or advanced fibrosis. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are known to be at increased risk for NAFLD and advanced fibrosis.

Aim

To assess the feasibility in diabetics in a primary care setting of screening for NAFLD and advanced fibrosis, by using non‐invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to estimate the hepatic proton density fat fraction (MRI‐PDFF) and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) to estimate hepatic stiffness.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of a prospective study that included 100 (53% men) consecutively enrolled diabetics who did not have any other aetiology of liver disease. All patients underwent a standardised research visit, laboratory tests, MRI‐PDFF, and MRE.

Results

Mean (±s.d.) age and body mass index (BMI) was 59.7 (±11.2) years and 30.8 (±6.5) kg/m2, respectively. The prevalence of NAFLD (defined as MRI‐PDFF ≥5%) and advanced fibrosis (defined as MRE ≥3.6 kPa) was 65% and 7.1%, respectively. One patient with advanced fibrosis had definite hepatocellular carcinoma. When compared to those without NAFLD, patients with NAFLD were younger (P = 0.028) and had higher mean BMI (P = 0.0008), waist circumference (P < 0.0001) and prevalence of metabolic syndrome (84.6% vs. 40.0%, P < 0.0001). Only 26% of those with NAFLD had elevated alanine aminotransferase.

Conclusions

This proof‐of‐concept study demonstrates that T2DM has significant rates of both NAFLD and advanced fibrosis. Concomitant screening for NAFLD and advanced fibrosis by using MRI‐proton density fat fraction and magnetic resonance elastography in T2DM is feasible and may be considered after validation in a larger cohort.
Implications of genetics and current protected areas for conservation of 5 endangered primates in China
Authors: Liu Zhijin , Liu Guangjian , Roos Christian , Wang Ziming , Xiang ZuoFu , Zhu Pingfen , Wang Boshi , Ren Baoping , Shi Fanglei , Pan Huijuan , Li Ming
Published: September 2015

Most of China's 24–28 primate species are threatened with extinction. Habitat reduction and fragmentation are perhaps the greatest threats. We used published data from a conservation genetics study of 5 endangered primates in China (Rhinopithecus roxellana, R. bieti, R. brelichi, Trachypithecus francoisi, and T. leucocephalus); distribution data on these species; and the distribution, area, and location of protected areas to inform conservation strategies for these primates. All 5 species were separated into subpopulations with unique genetic components. Gene flow appeared to be strongly impeded by agricultural land, meadows used for grazing, highways, and humans dwellings. Most species declined severely or diverged concurrently as human population and crop land cover increased. Nature reserves were not evenly distributed across subpopulations with unique genetic backgrounds. Certain small subpopulations were severely fragmented and had higher extinction risk than others. Primate mobility is limited and their genetic structure is strong and susceptible to substantial loss of diversity due to local extinction. Thus, to maximize preservation of genetic diversity in all these primate species, our results suggest protection is required for all sub‐populations. Key priorities for their conservation include maintainingR. roxellanain Shennongjia national reserve, subpopulations S4 and S5 ofR. bietiand ofR. brelichiin Fanjingshan national reserve, subpopulation CGX ofT. francoisiin central Guangxi Province, and all 3T. leucocephalussub‐populations in central Guangxi Province.
Orchid conservation in the biodiversity hotspot of southwestern China
Authors: Liu Qiang , Chen Jin , Corlett Richard T. , Fan XuLi , Yu DongLI , Yang HongPei , Gao JiangYun
Published: September 2015

Xishuangbanna is on the northern margins of tropical Asia in southwestern China and has the largest area of tropical forest remaining in the country. It is in the Indo‐Burma hotspot and contains 16% of China's vascular flora in <0.2% of the country's total area (19,690 km2). Rapid expansion of monoculture crops in the last 20 years, particularly rubber, threatens this region's exceptional biodiversity. To understand the effects of land‐use change and collection on orchid species diversity and determine protection priorities, we conducted systematic field surveys, observed markets, interviewed orchid collectors, and then determined the conservation status of all orchids. We identified 426 orchid species in 115 genera in Xishuangbanna: 31% of all orchid species that occur in China. Species richness was highest at 1000–1200 m elevation. Three orchid species were assessed as possibly extinct in the wild, 15 as critically endangered, 82 as endangered, 124 as vulnerable, 186 as least concern, and 16 as data deficient. Declines over 20 years in harvested species suggested over‐collection was the major threat, and utility value (i.e., medicinal or ornamental value) was significantly related to endangerment. Expansion of rubber tree plantations was less of a threat to orchids than to other taxa because only 75 orchid species (17.6%) occurred below the 1000‐m‐elevation ceiling for rubber cultivation, and most of these (46) occurred in nature reserves. However, climate change is projected to lift this ceiling to around 1300 m by 2050, and the limited area at higher elevations reduces the potential for upslope range expansion. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden is committed to achieving zero plant extinctions in Xishuangbanna, and orchids are a high priority. Appropriate in and ex situ conservation strategies, including new protected areas and seed banking, have been developed for every threatened orchid species and are being implemented.
Translocation of threatened plants as a conservation measure in China
Authors: Liu Hong , Ren Hai , Liu Qiang , Wen XiangYing , Maunder Michael , Gao JiangYun
Published: September 2015

We assessed the current status of plant conservation translocation efforts in China, a topic poorly reported in recent scientific literature. We identified 222 conservation translocation cases involving 154 species, of these 87 were Chinese endemic species and 101 (78%) were listed as threatened on the Chinese Species Red List. We categorized the life form of each species and, when possible, determined for each case the translocation type, propagule source, propagule type, and survival and reproductive parameters. A surprisingly large proportion (26%) of the conservation translocations in China were conservation introductions, largely implemented in response to large‐scale habitat destruction caused by the Three‐Gorge Dam and another hydropower project. Documentation and management of the translocations varied greatly. Less than half the cases had plant survival records. Statistical analyses showed that survival percentages were significantly correlated with plant life form and the type of planting materials. Thirty percent of the cases had records on whether or not individuals flowered or fruited. Results of information theoretic model selection indicated that plant life form, translocation type, propagule type, propagule source, and time since planting significantly influenced the likelihood of flowering and fruiting on the project level. We suggest that the scientific‐based application of species conservation translocations should be promoted as part of a commitment to species recovery management. In addition, we recommend that the common practice of within and out of range introductions in nature reserves to be regulated more carefully due to its potential ecological risks. We recommend the establishment of a national office and database to coordinate conservation translocations in China. Our review effort is timely considering the need for a comprehensive national guideline for the newly announced nation‐wide conservation program on species with extremely small populations, which is expected to stimulate conservation translocations for many species in the near future.
Impact of the introduction of standardised packaging on smokers' brand awareness and identification inAustralia
Authors: Balmford James , Borland Ron , Yong Hua‐Hie
Published: September 2015

Introduction and Aims

The introduction of standardised packaging (SP) inAustralia inDecember 2012 has heightened interest in how image and branding might affect smoking. This paper tests the hypothesis that brand awareness and identification among smokers will decline after the introduction ofSP.

Design and Methods

Longitudinal study of three waves of smokers inAustralia, conducted betweenOctober 2011–February 2012 (pre‐SP) (n = 1104),February–May 2013 (post‐SP1) (n = 1093) andAugust–December 2014 (post‐SP2) (n = 1090). We explored the extent of changes in two variables, brand awareness (noticing others with the brand of cigarettes you smoke) and brand identification (perceiving something in common among smokers of your brand), and examined change in a number of other measures of brand appeal, brand characteristics and determinants of brand choice.

Results

Brand awareness ‘at least sometimes’ reduced from 45.3% pre‐SPto 26.9% atpost‐SP2[odds ratio (OR) 0.35 (0.27–0.45)]. Brand identification also decreased from 18.2% to 12.7% [OR0.62 (0.42–0.91)]. Significant decline was also found in measures of perceived brand prestige [OR0.51 (0.39–0.66)] and choice of brand for health reasons [OR0.45 (0.32–0.63)]. Liking the look of the pack was strongly associated with brand identification, but only post‐SP(P = 0.02 for interaction across the three waves).

Discussion and Conclusions

The introduction ofSPof tobacco products inAustralia has been associated with reductions in brand awareness and identification, and changes in related measures. The findings support the notion thatSPhas reduced the capacity for smokers to use pack branding to create and communicate a desired identity. [Balmford J, Borland R, Yong H‐H. Impact of the introduction of standardised packaging on smokers' brand awareness and identification inAustralia.Drug Alcohol Rev2015;00:000–000]
Hemipenes in females of the mexican viviparous lizard Barisia imbricata (Squamata: Anguidae): an example of heterochrony in sexual development
Authors: Martínez‐Torres Martín , Rubio‐Morales Beatriz , Piña‐Amado José Juan , Luis Juana
Published: September 2015

The sexual development of saurians follows a similar pattern to that described for other amniotes. Changes in the timing or sequence of development events are known as heterochrony. We describe the pattern of sexual development in the viviparous Mexican lizard Barisia imbricata and report heterochrony in the regression of hemipenes in this lizard. We collected gestating females; some lizards were subjected to partial hysterectomy and the embryos were processed using routine histological technique to assess gonadal development; the remaining embryos were used to assess the development of hemipenes. Other pregnant females were kept in captivity in individual terraria until the time of delivery. All neonates were sexed by eversion of hemipenes and some of their body characteristics were recorded. Several neonates were sacrificed and processed to establish gonadal histology and the young of the remaining litters were maintained in captivity to observe the fate of the hemipenes in both sexes. Gonadal development began at embryonic stage 33 and the hemipenes were visible at the same stage. In the neonates, the ovary contained oogonias and ovarian follicles, whereas the testicles showed testicular cords. All neonates had hemipenes and sex could only be established through direct observation of the reproductive ducts and gonadal histology. The hemipenes regression in the females begins after approximately 7 months of postnatal development and concludes at about 15 months of age. We think that the delayed regression of the hemipenes reflects evolutionary differences among reptiles and may be an indication of a stage in the evolutionary process of this species.
Is revascularization of immature permanent teeth an effective and reproducible technique?
Authors: Chen Yu‐Po , Jovani‐Sancho Maria del Mar , Sheth Chirag C.
Published: September 2015

Background

Revascularization has been proposed as an improved alternative treatment for irreversibly damaged pulp of immature teeth as it has been shown to preserve the potential for continued root growth in treated teeth.

Aim

To review clinical cases of revascularization in humans to evaluate their utility and reproducibility.

Material and methods

A structured electronic search of scientific articles published between 2001 and 2014 was carried out using the following keywords: ‘pulp revascularization’, ‘pulp revitalization’ and/or ‘immature tooth’. Clinical revascularization cases conducted on human subjects were selected, reviewed and organized into two charts including patient information, diagnostic information, treatment and results in follow‐up visits.

Results

Ninety‐seven of 101 teeth (96.0%) were successfully treated with the revascularization technique. The range of technique variations available for irrigation, disinfection and blood clot induction have a negligible impact on the clinical outcome variables tested in our analysis. During the follow‐up visits, apical closure was detected in fewer cases (55.4%) as compared to the other apexogenesis phenomena (increased root length, 76.2%; increased root width, 79.2%).

Conclusions

The review shows that the revascularization technique showed marked increase in the root length, width and apical closure in the cases that were reported independently of clinical variables such as operator and material selection and individual differences in protocols.
Problem behaviour and traumatic dental injuries in adolescents
Authors: Ramchandani Damini , Marcenes Wagner , Stansfeld Stephen A. , Bernabé Eduardo
Published: September 2015

Aim

To explore the relationship between problem behaviour and traumatic dental injuries (TDI) among 15‐ to 16‐year‐old schoolchildren from East London.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from 794 adolescents who participated in phase III of the Research with East London Adolescents Community Health Survey (RELACHS), a school‐based prospective study of a representative sample of adolescents. Participants completed a questionnaire and were clinically examined for TDI, overjet and lip coverage. The Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used to assess problem behaviour, which provided a total score and five domain scores (emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer problems and pro‐social behaviour). The association between problem behaviour and TDI was assessed in unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models. Adjusted models controlled for demographic (sex, age and ethnicity), socio‐economic (parental employment) and clinical factors (overjet and lip coverage).

Results

The prevalence of TDI was 17% and the prevalence of problem behaviour, according to the SDQ, was 10%. In the adjusted model, adolescents with problem behaviour were 1.87 (95% confidence interval: 1.03–3.37) times more likely to have TDI than those without problem behaviour. In subsequent analysis by SDQ domains, it was found that only peer problems were associated with TDI (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.01–3.14), even after adjustment for confounders.

Conclusion

This study found evidence for a relationship between problem behaviour and TDI among adolescents, which was mainly due to peer relationship problems.
Fifty years after Ehrlich and Raven, is there support for plant–insect coevolution as a major driver of species diversification?
Authors: Suchan Tomasz , Alvarez Nadir
Published: September 2015

Since Ehrlich & Raven's seminal paper 50 years ago, coevolution has been seen as a major driver of species diversification. Here, we review classical and more recent case studies on the coevolution of plants and associated insects, to examine whether the coevolutionary component holds as an explanation of their current diversity. We discuss the main dogmas in coevolution and argue that coevolutionary processes should not be considered as major drivers of diversification in plants and insects. Instead, we suggest that coevolution essentially occurs through relatively short ‘interludes’, making the pattern difficult to detect. We also criticize the use of comparative phylogenetics to investigate coevolutionary processes, as coevolution may not necessarily produce congruent phylogenies among interacting lineages and, in turn, other processes may produce patterns of codivergence. Finally, we propose new lines of investigation for future research.
Simulated ecosystem response to volcanic iron fertilization in the subarctic Pacific ocean
Authors: Kearney Kelly A. , Tommasi Desiree , Stock Charles
Published: September 2015

The eruption of the Kasatochi volcano in August 2008 stimulated an anomalously high phytoplankton bloom in the otherwise iron‐limited subarctic Pacific ocean. It has been proposed that this increased production may have been responsible for record returns of some Pacific salmon stocks in the following years. Here, we investigate the potential effect of volcanic‐induced iron fertilization on the entire ecosystem, from phytoplankton through to top predators, using a fully‐coupled end‐to‐end ecosystem model. Our simulations indicate that the volcanic iron fertilization could only stimulate modest increases, at most 10%, in the standing stock biomass of upper trophic level species, including fisheries targets such as Pacific salmon. Propagation of energy to higher trophic levels depends on the timing of the eruption, with more efficient crustaceous zooplankton pathways being favored earlier in the growing season and less‐efficient gelatinous zooplankton pathways dominating during later months. However, effects were of modest magnitude for all eruption timings, and the strong level of connectivity within the food web makes the preferential stimulation of a single salmon stock implausible. This adds additional support to evidence suggesting that the Kasatochi eruption did not play a large role in subsequent high salmon returns and questions the value of much smaller‐scale artificial fertilization for fisheries. Indeed, the onset of macronutrient limitation coupled with the highly‐connected nature of the food web exert strong controls on the fisheries response to even complete removal of iron limitation in the subarctic Pacific.
Environmental associations with broad‐scale Japanese and Taiwanese pelagic longline effort in the southern Indian and Atlantic Oceans
Authors: Michael Pamela E. , Tuck Geoffrey N. , Strutton Peter , Hobday Alistair
Published: September 2015

Tunas are globally important to fisheries because of their broad distribution and high market value. However, these characteristics also complicate their management, owing to difficulties estimating population size and sustainable harvest levels. Fishing effort data can be difficult to interpret, as the magnitude and distribution of effort are the result of multiple factors, including environmental variation and targeting different species. Yet, resolving patterns in fishing effort may provide information enabling the setting of sustainable harvest levels, the management of bycatch and the projection of potential responses to environmental change. To better understand the allocation of fishing effort, we evaluated Japanese and Taiwanese longline effort in the southern Indian and Atlantic Oceans and their relationships to the environment using generalized additive models. The variables evaluated included sea surface temperature (SST), sea ice extent, climate indices, and seasonal cycles, and the results were interpreted in physical, ecological, and management contexts. Our findings indicated hierarchical relationships are impacting fishing effort, with a seasonal cycle an important component of most models, which we hypothesize relates to variation in species targeting. This was often followed by finer‐scale environmental indices, including isotherms and sea ice, indicating region‐specific dynamics impacting the magnitude and distribution of fishing effort. Additionally, effort in some regions was associated with climate indices, highlighting interannual variation. This first quantitative description of the environmental associations of multi‐species tuna fleets in the Southern Ocean is a step towards an improved understanding of fleet behaviour.
Enhanced visualization of the flat landscape of the Cambridgeshire Fenlands
Authors: Pritchard Oliver , Farewell Timothy , Hallett Stephen
Published: September 2015

The Fenlands of East Anglia, England, represent a subtle landscape, where topographic highs rarely exceed 30 m above sea level. However, the fens represent an almost full sequence of Quaternary deposits which, together with islands of Cretaceous and Jurassic outcrops, make the area of geological importance. This feature discusses the advantages of using 3D visualization coupled with high‐resolution topographical data, over traditional 2D techniques, when undertaking an analysis of the landscape. Conclusions suggest that the use of 3D visualization will result in a higher level of engagement, particularly when communicating geological information to a wider public.
Novel, human cell line‐derived recombinant factor VIII (Human‐cl rhFVIII, Nuwiq®) in children with severe haemophilia A: efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Klukowska A. , Szczepański T. , Vdovin V. , Knaub S. , Jansen M. , Liesner R.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

Nuwiq® (Human‐cl rhFVIII) is a new‐generation recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII) protein, without chemical modification or fusion to any other protein, produced in a human cell line.

Aim/Methods

This prospective, open‐label, multinational phase III study assessed the efficacy and safety of Human‐cl rhFVIII in 59 previously treated patients (PTPs) with severe haemophilia A aged 2–12 years (2–5 [N = 29]; 6–12 [N = 30]) during standard prophylaxis (≥50 exposure days and ≥6 months). Efficacy in treating breakthrough bleeds and during surgical prophylaxis was also assessed.

Results

An initial pharmacokinetic assessment (N = 13 per age subgroup) demonstrated comparable results with the one‐stage and chromogenic assays. Mean (SD) half‐life was 11.9 (5.4) and 13.1 (2.6) hours in children aged 2–5 years and 6–12 years respectively (one‐stage assay). Prophylactic efficacy, based on mean monthly bleeding rate, was ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ in 91.5% of children for all bleeds and in 96.6% of children for spontaneous bleeds. Mean (SD) annualized bleeding rate was 4.12 (5.22) [median 1.9] for all bleeds, 1.50 (3.32) [median 0] for spontaneous bleeds and 2.34 (3.54) [median 1.57] for traumatic bleeds. There were no major, life‐threatening bleeds. Efficacy was ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ in the treatment of 82.4% of breakthrough bleeds. Overall efficacy during five major surgeries was rated as ‘excellent’. There were no FVIII inhibitors or treatment‐related serious adverse events.

Conclusion

These results in paediatric PTPs indicate that Human‐cl rhFVIII is effective for the prevention and treatment of bleeds.
Epidemiology and Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Mentis Andreas , Lehours Philippe , Mégraud Francis
Published: September 2015

During the period reviewed, prevalence studies were essentially performed in less economically advanced countries and a high prevalence was found. The traditional risk factors for Helicobacter pylori positivity were mostly found. Transmission studied by molecular typing showed a familial transmission. The eventual role of water transmission was explored in several studies with controversial results. Concerning diagnosis, most of the invasive and noninvasive methods used for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection are long standing with efficient performance. The most interesting recent improvements in H. pylori diagnosis include advances in endoscopy, developments in molecular methods, and the introduction of omics‐based techniques. Interpretation of old or newer method should take into account the pretest probability and the prevalence of H. pylori in the population under investigation.
Helicobacter pylori and Nonmalignant Diseases
Authors: Potamitis Georgios S. , Axon Anthony T. R.
Published: September 2015

Helicobacter pylori is responsible for most peptic ulcers, plays a role in functional dyspepsia and is thought by some to influence the course of gastroesophageal reflux disease. This article addresses recent studies that have been published in connection with these diseases. H. pylori‐associated peptic ulcer is declining in prevalence but the incidence of perforation and bleeding remains high especially in the elderly. All H. pylori associated peptic ulcers should be treated by eradication of the infection. Dyspepsia is a common disorder that affects up to 25% of the population. About 8% of cases that are infected with H. pylori will respond to treatment of the infection. The association between H. pylori and gastroesophageal reflux disease continues to be debated, a number of studies have shown that there is a negative association between H. pylori infection and Gastroesophageal reflux disease but treatment of H. pylori has not been shown to induce reflux or to affect the response to medication. Gastric atrophy is known to extend when acid suppression is used in infected patients implying that H. pylori treatment should be used in infected patients who are to undergo long‐term Proton Pump Inhibitor therapy.
Treatment of Helicobacter pylori Infection 2015
Authors: O'Connor Anthony , Gisbert Javier P. , O'Morain Colm , Ladas Spiros
Published: September 2015

Many interesting articles have been published from many parts of the world over the last year assessing different issues around Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. This article will address the published literature over the last year pertaining to the topic of treatment of H. pylori infection. The main themes that emerge are assessing the efficacy of standard triple therapy, as well as exploring new first‐line treatments, mainly optimized nonbismuth‐ and bismuth‐containing quadruple therapies with some promising data also emerging on dual therapy. There was also considerable progress in investigating antibiotic resistance rates with much more data emerging from varied parts of the world compared to recent years. There have also been advances in the use of adjunctive therapies, especially probiotic therapies. Undoubtedly, the eradication of H. pylori remains a worthwhile goal to alleviate the burden of diseases caused by the complications of this infection, including dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric cancer.
The Other Helicobacters
Authors: Flahou Bram , Rimbara Emiko , Mori Shigetarou , Haesebrouck Freddy , Shibayama Keigo
Published: September 2015

In the past year, a substantial number of (putative) novel Helicobacter species have been described, including Helicobacter himalayensis colonizing the Himalayan marmot and Helicobacter apodemus, colonizing the Korean striped field mouse. In addition, a putative novel gastric Helicobacter species was identified in wild gorillas and chimpanzees, for which the name “Candidatus H. homininae” was proposed. A high incidence of gastric non‐H. pylori Helicobacter infection was described in China and multiple case reports have described the involvement of enterohepatic Helicobacter species, especially Helicobacter cinaedi, in a wide range of diseases. Several studies in rodent models further elucidated the mechanisms underlying the development of gastric mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma during infection with gastric non‐H. pylori Helicobacters. The effects of infection with gastric Helicobacters on the development of neuroinflammation were investigated and several enterohepatic Helicobacter species were shown to affect the composition of the gut microbiota, to influence vaccine efficiency as well as the progression of cancer in distant sites of the body.
Effect of autoclave sterilization on the cyclic fatigue resistance of thermally treated Nickel–Titanium instruments
Authors: Zhao D. , Shen Y. , Peng B. , Haapasalo M.
Published: September 2015

Aim

To compare the cyclic fatigue resistance of HyFlex CM, Twisted Files (TF), K3XF, Race, and K3, and evaluate the effect of autoclave sterilization on the cyclic fatigue resistance of these instruments both before and after the files were cycled.

Methodology

Five types of NiTi instruments with similar size 30, .06 taper were selected: HyFlex CM, TF, K3XF, Race and K3. Files were tested in a simulated canal with a curvature of 60° and a radius of 3 mm. The number of cycles to failure of each instrument was determined to evaluate cyclic fatigue resistance. Each type of instruments was randomly divided into four experimental groups: group 1 (n = 20), unsterilized instruments; group 2 (n = 20), pre‐sterilized instruments subjected to 10 cycles of autoclave sterilization; group 3 (n = 20), instruments tested were sterilized at 25%, 50% and 75% of the mean cycles to failure as determined in group 1, and then cycled to failure; group 4 (n = 20), instruments cycled in the same manner as group 3 but without sterilization. The fracture surfaces of instruments were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results

HyFlex CM, TF and K3XF had significantly higher cyclic fatigue resistance than Race and K3 in the unsterilized group 1 (P < 0.05). Autoclave sterilization significantly increased the MCF of HyFlex CM and K3XF (P < 0.05) both before and after the files were cycled. SEM examination revealed a typical pattern of cyclic fatigue fracture in all instruments.

Conclusions

HyFlex CM, TF and K3XF instruments composed of new thermal‐treated alloy were more resistant to fatigue failure than Race and K3. Autoclaving extended the cyclic fatigue life of HyFlex CM and K3XF.
Evaluating clinical competence during nursing education: A comprehensive integrative literature review
Authors: Lejonqvist Gun‐Britt , Eriksson Katie , Meretoja Riitta
Published: September 2015

This paper explored concepts, definitions and theoretical perspectives evaluating clinical competence during nursing education. The questions were: (i) How is clinical competence evaluated? and (ii) What is evaluated? An integrative review of 19 original research articles from 2009 to 2013 was performed. Results showed that evaluation tools were used in 14, observations in 2 and reflecting writing in 3 studies. The students participated in all but one evaluation alone or together with peers, faculty members or preceptors. Three themes were found: (i) professional practice with a caring perspective; (ii) clinical skills and reflective practice; and (iii) cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills both with a nursing perspective. This review shows an emphasis on structured methods with a risk reducing nursing to tasks and skills why combinations with qualitative evaluations are recommended. A holistic view of competence dominated and in designing evaluations, explicit perspectives and operationalized definitions of clinical competence became evident.
A randomized trial of direct pulp capping in primary molars usingMTAcompared to 3Mixtatin: a novel pulp capping biomaterial
Authors: Asl Aminabadi Naser , Satrab Soheil , Najafpour Ebrahim , Samiei Mohammad , Jamali Zahra , Shirazi Sajjad
Published: September 2015

Objective

This study aimed to examine the efficacy of 3Mixtatin (a combination of simvastatin and 3Mix antibiotic) as a novel pulp capping biomaterial inDPCof human primary molars.

Methods

In this randomized clinical trial, 160 primary molars from 83 healthy children aged 3–6 years were randomly allocated into four groups. Small traumatic non‐caries pulpal exposures were treated byDPCusing simvastatin, 3Mix, 3Mixtatin, orMTA. Capping materials were covered with hard‐setting zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) cement, and then, teeth were restored with amalgam. Clinical and radiographic examinations were conducted at 2, 6, and 12 months after treatment. The data were compared using chi‐square test at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐nine teeth were available for follow‐up study. By the end of 12 months, the overall success rates were 93.8% inMTA, 91.9% in 3Mixtatin, 62.5% in 3Mix, and 57.1% in simvastatingroups. No statistically significant difference was found between the outcomes ofMTAand 3Mixtatin groups (P> 0.05). 3Mixtatin had statistically superior results compared to 3Mix and simvastatin (P< 0.01).

Conclusion

Radiographic and clinical outcomes in 3Mixtatin group could suggest it as an acceptable alternative inDPCof primary molar teeth.
Comparison of mandibular cortical thickness and QCT‐derived bone mineral density (BMD) in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a retrospective study
Authors: Allen Brandice , Migliorati Cesar , Rowland Chris , An Qi , Shintaku Werner , Donaldson Martin , Wells Martha , Kaste Sue
Published: September 2015

Objective

To examine whether panoramic radiograph‐determined mandibular cortical thickness correlated with quantitative computed tomography‐derived bone mineral density (BMD) in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Methods

We identified patients treated for ALL at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, seen in the After Completion of Therapy (ACT) Clinic between January of 2006 and January of 2014 who had QCT‐derived BMD and panoramic radiographs obtained within 1 month of each other. Panoramic radiographs were independently scored by a pediatric radiologist, two pediatric dentists, and a general dentist using the Klemetti technique. We used the Spearman's rank correlation test and the multivariate regression model to investigate the effect of evaluator experience on results.

Results

The study cohort comprised 181 patients with 320 paired studies: 112 (62%) male, 112 (71%) were white. Median age at ALL diagnosis was 6.4 (range, 0–18.8) years. Median age at study was 11.9 (range, 3.3 to 29.4) years. The median average BMD was 154.6 (range, 0.73–256) mg/cc; median QCT Z‐score (age and gender adjusted) was −0.875 (range, −5.04 to 3.2). We found very weak association between panoramic radiograph score and both QCT‐BMD average (P = 0.53) and QCT Z‐score (P = 0.39). Results were not influenced by level of reader experience.

Conclusions

The Klemetti technique of estimating BMD does not predict BMD deficits in children and young adult survivors of ALL, regardless of reviewer expertise. Alternative methods are needed whereby dental healthcare providers can identify and refer patients at risk for BMD deficits for detailed assessment and intervention.
Links Between Demographic and Kinship Transitions
Authors: Verdery Ashton M.
Published: September 2015

The demographic transition is also a kinship transition. This insight is obvious for certain types of kin—as fertility falls, parents have fewer children, for instance—but its broader implications for communities remain unexplored. Prior work on this topic has focused on how the demographic transition reshapes the availability of living kin within a society over time to the neglect of how differences in the demographic transition lead to differences in kinship networks between communities. In this article, I examine survey data (for rural Thailand) and use microsimulation methods to test how different pathways through the demographic transition affect kinship networks in communities. My results show that different routes through the demographic transition can substantially alter kinship network size and, entirely through the mechanism of demographic change, have indirect effects on community integration. These effects persist long after the demographic transition has ended. I theorize reasons that community‐level differentiation in kinship networks owing to the demographic transition are an important mechanism linking the demographic transition to modernity.
Concealed pregnancy: a concept analysis
Authors: Murphy Tighe Sylvia , Lalor Joan G.
Published: September 2015

Aim/Design

A concept analysis of concealed pregnancy was undertaken using Walker and Avant's framework to examine the attributes, characteristics and uses of the concept in maternity care.

Background

Understanding the concept of concealed pregnancy is critical as failing to do so adds the risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Reviewing the literature and selected empirical referents indicated that concealed pregnancy has been predominantly viewed through a biomedical lens. Confusion exists around the definitions of denied and concealed pregnancy.

Data sources

A systematic search of five bibliographic databases using keywords from the years 1960–2014.

Methods

Walker and Avant's framework was used to guide the concept analysis. A thematic analysis of reviewed papers identified the main characteristics of concealed pregnancy.

Results

Concealed pregnancy was conceptualized as a process and the critical attributes are secrecy, hiding, daytime story, staying away and avoidance. This process involves avoidance and if this includes failing to access healthcare can lead to catastrophic outcomes such as maternal and neonatal death. Antecedents, attributes and consequences of concealed pregnancy are also identified.

Conclusions

Understanding the concept of concealed pregnancy and its’ antecedents, attributes and consequences may assist in risk identification of women who conceal a pregnancy. This concept analysis has identified a need for further exploration of the coping styles and psychosocial processes involved in women concealing and revealing a pregnancy.
Diagnostic approach in lymphoplasmacytic plaque
Authors: Mitteldorf C. , Palmedo G. , Kutzner H. , Kauer F. , Prestin M. , Schuster C. , Hübscher E. , Kirsch A. , Tronnier M. , Kempf W.
Published: September 2015

Background

Lymphoplasmacytic plaque (LPP) is a recently described rare skin disease characterized by a dense dermal lymphohistiocytic infiltrate with polyclonal plasma cells. The clinical picture is distinct with reddish to brownish plaque with a predilection for the lower leg. LPP typically affects children.

Objective

To define clinical and histologic criteria of LPP and to develop a diagnostic flow chart.

Methods

We investigated six of our own LPP cases. Immunoglobulin light chains, IgG, IgG4, CD31, CD163 as a histiocytic marker were examined by immunohistochemistry. PCR‐based molecular studies were conducted for borrelia sp., mycobacterial and leishmania sp. Moreover, 10 cases, which have been reported in the literature, were checked for the same features.

Results

We could differentiate three main histological patterns (superficial band‐like only, [deep] dermal only and mixed). Acanthosis and interface dermatitis are key features in cases with a superficial band‐like or mixed infiltrate. Granulomas and giant cells could be only found in about 30% of the cases. The number of plasma cells was variable accounting for 5–40% of the infiltrate. The number of blood vessels was increased in the majority of the cases. ‘Free‐floating’ collagen bundles surrounded by histiocytes (pseudorosettes) were identified as a new histological feature. An infectious agent could be excluded in all cases.

Conclusions

LPP is a long‐standing skin disease, which may also occur in adults and in other body regions than the lower leg. Reproducible clinical and histological criteria allow delineating a diagnostic work‐up for LPP.
The role of cytokine deficiencies and cytokine autoantibodies in clinical dermatology
Authors: Liszewski W. , Gniadecki R.
Published: September 2015

Cytokines are small, secreted proteins that are essential for promoting and maintaining a normal immune response. Upregulation of cytokines frequently occurs in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Conversely, several immunodeficiency, autoimmune and autoinflammatory disorders are known to occur due to a downregulation or absence of cytokines. Here, we review the diagnosis and clinical management of cytokine deficiency syndromes in dermatology. We will review the biology of cytokines, and the current approved indications for recombinant cytokines and anticytokine antibodies. We will also review the role of cytokine deficiencies and cytokine autoantibodies in immunodeficiency syndromes, as well as in autoimmune disorders. Finally, we will examine autoinflammatory disorders due to cytokine deficiencies.