bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hereditäres Angioödem in Österreich: Prävalenz und regionale Besonderheiten
Authors: Schöffl Clemens , Wiednig Michaela , Koch Lukas , Blagojevic Daniel , Duschet Peter , Hawranek Thomas , Kinaciyan Tamar , Öllinger Angela , Aberer Werner
Published: April 2019

Hintergrund

Zur Prävalenz und zu den klinischen Merkmalen österreichischer Patienten mit hereditärem Angioödem (HAE) mit C1‐Esterase‐Inhibitor (C1‐INH)‐Defizienz (HAE‐1) oder ‐Dysfunktion (HAE‐2) liegen keine Daten vor.

Methodik

In einer landesweiten Befragung wurden aktuelle Basisdaten erfasst. Krankenakten der HAE‐Patienten der medizinischen Universität Graz wurden im Hinblick auf klinische Merkmale ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden 137 Patienten identifiziert, was einer Prävalenz von 1 : 64 396 entspricht. Das mediane Alter bei Einsetzen der Symptome betrug 6,5 Jahre, das mediane Alter zum Zeitpunkt der korrekten Diagnose 21,0 Jahre. Die mediane diagnostische Verzögerung lag bei 15,0 Jahren bei neu diagnostizierten Patienten ohne HAE in der Familienanamnese. Patienten mit HAE in der Familienanamnese erhielten ihre Diagnose unmittelbar. HAE‐Patienten ohne HAE in der Familienanamnese, die vor 1960 geboren wurden, mussten bis zur korrekten Diagnose im Median 16,0 Jahre warten. Bei Patienten, die nach 1980 geboren wurden, betrug die mediane Zeit bis zur Diagnose immer noch 6,5 Jahre.

Schlussfolgerungen

Patienten mit hereditärem Angioödem müssen in einigen Teilen Österreichs nach wie vor mit einer unverhältnismäßig langen diagnostischen Verzögerung rechnen, oder ihre Erkrankung wird unter Umständen selbst von Spezialisten nicht erkannt. Die vorliegenden Ergebnisse unterstreichen die Notwendigkeit, das Bewusstsein für HAE zu stärken.
The interplay of landscape composition and configuration: new pathways to manage functional biodiversity and agroecosystem services across Europe
Authors: Martin Emily A. , Dainese Matteo , Clough Yann , Báldi András , Bommarco Riccardo , Gagic Vesna , Garratt Michael P.D. , Holzschuh Andrea , Kleijn David , Kovács‐Hostyánszki Anikó , Marini Lorenzo , Potts Simon G. , Smith Henrik G. , Al Hassan Diab , Albrecht Matthias , Andersson Georg K.S. , Asís Josep D. , Aviron Stéphanie , Balzan Mario V. , Baños‐Picón Laura , Bartomeus Ignasi , Batáry Péter , Burel Francoise , Caballero‐López Berta , Concepción Elena D. , Coudrain Valérie , Dänhardt Juliana , Diaz Mario , Diekötter Tim , Dormann Carsten F. , Duflot Rémi , Entling Martin H. , Farwig Nina , Fischer Christina , Frank Thomas , Garibaldi Lucas A. , Hermann John , Herzog Felix , Inclán Diego , Jacot Katja , Jauker Frank , Jeanneret Philippe , Kaiser Marina , Krauss Jochen , Le Féon Violette , Marshall Jon , Moonen Anna‐Camilla , Moreno Gerardo , Riedinger Verena , Rundlöf Maj , Rusch Adrien , Scheper Jeroen , Schneider Gudrun , Schüepp Christof , Stutz Sonja , Sutter Louis , Tamburini Giovanni , Thies Carsten , Tormos José , Tscharntke Teja , Tschumi Matthias , Uzman Deniz , Wagner Christian , Zubair‐Anjum Muhammad , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf
Published: April 2019

Managing agricultural landscapes to support biodiversity and ecosystem services is a key aim of a sustainable agriculture. However, how the spatial arrangement of crop fields and other habitats in landscapes impacts arthropods and their functions is poorly known. Synthesising data from 49 studies (1515 landscapes) across Europe, we examined effects of landscape composition (% habitats) and configuration (edge density) on arthropods in fields and their margins, pest control, pollination and yields. Configuration effects interacted with the proportions of crop and non‐crop habitats, and species’ dietary, dispersal and overwintering traits led to contrasting responses to landscape variables. Overall, however, in landscapes with high edge density, 70% of pollinator and 44% of natural enemy species reached highest abundances and pollination and pest control improved 1.7‐ and 1.4‐fold respectively. Arable‐dominated landscapes with high edge densities achieved high yields. This suggests that enhancing edge density in European agroecosystems can promote functional biodiversity and yield‐enhancing ecosystem services.
Tricalcium silicate cements: osteogenic and angiogenic responses of human bone marrow stem cells
Authors: Ali Mohamed R. W. , Mustafa Manal , Bårdsen Asgeir , Bletsa Athanasia
Published: April 2019

Tricalcium silicate cements (TSCs) are used in endodontic procedures to promote wound healing and hard tissue formation. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of commonly used TSCs [mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Biodentine, and TotalFill] on cellular metabolism and osteogenic/angiogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) in vitro. We tested the null hypothesis of no difference between MTA, Biodentine, and TotalFill in stem cell responses. Cells were subjected to eluates of the tested materials for up to 14 d. Cell viability was evaluated using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐thiazoyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Real‐time PCR was used to determine the levels of expression of the osteogenic factors alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteoprotegerin (OPG), osteocalcin (OC), and collagen 1A (COL1A1), and the angiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1). ELISAs were used to measure the levels of VEGFA and ALP in culture supernatants. Mineralization in vitro of hBMSCs was assessed using Alizarin Red staining. The hBMSCs tolerated exposure to TSCs well, with Biodentine showing the most favorable effect on cell viability. Expression of ALP, COL1A1, OPG, and VEGFA were differentially affected by the materials, with Biodentine and TotalFill inducing earlier changes at gene level. Increased mineralization was observed with time, after exposure to all TSCs tested, with MTA showing the greatest effect. The results revealed different responses of hBMSCs to TSCs in vitro.
Duration of therapeutic coma and outcome of refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Muhlhofer Wolfgang G. , Layfield Stephen , Lowenstein Daniel , Lin Chee Paul , Johnson Robert D. , Saini Shalini , Szaflarski Jerzy P.
Published: April 2019

Objective

Examine the association of duration of therapeutic coma (TC) with seizure recurrence, morbidity, and mortality in refractory status epilepticus (RSE). Define an optimal window for TC that provides sustained seizure control and minimizes complications.

Methods

Retrospective, observational cohort study involving patients who presented with RSE to the University of Alabama at Birmingham or the University of California at San Francisco from 2010 to 2016. Relationship of duration of TC with primary and secondary outcomes was evaluated using two‐sample t tests, simple linear regression, and chi‐square tests. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to identify independent predictors. Predictive ability of TC for seizure recurrence was quantified using a receiver‐operating characteristic curve. Youden index was used to determine an optimal cutoff value.

Results

Multivariable analysis of clinical and treatment characteristics of 182 patients who were treated predominantly with propofol as anesthetic agent showed that longer duration of the first trial of TC (27.2 vs 15.6 hours) was independently associated with a higher chance of seizure recurrence following the first weaning attempt (P = 0.038) but not with poor functional neurologic outcome upon discharge, in‐hospital complications, or mortality. Furthermore, higher doses of anesthetic utilized during the first trial of TC were independently associated with fewer in‐hospital complications (P = 0.003) and associated with a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation and total length of stay. Duration of TC was identified as an independent predictor of seizure recurrence with an optimal cutoff point at 35 hours.

Significance

This study suggests that a shorter duration yet deeper TC as treatment for RSE may be more effective and safer than the currently recommended TC duration of 24‐48 hours. Prospective and randomized trials should be conducted to validate these assertions.
Stroma in normal and cancer wound healing
Authors: Huet Eric , Jaroz Camille , Nguyen Hoang Quy , Belkacemi Yazid , de la Taille Alexandre , Stavrinides Vasilis , Whitaker Hayley
Published: April 2019

It is currently believed that stroma, the connective framework of biological tissues, plays a central role in normal wound healing and in cancer. In both these contexts, stromal cellular components such as activated fibroblasts interact with complex protein networks that include growth factors, structural protein or proteinases in order to initiate and sustain an extensive remodelling process. However, although this process is usually spatially and temporally self‐limited, it is unregulated in the case of cancer and leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation and invasion within tissues, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. In this review, we outline the role of stroma in normal healing, cancer and post radiotherapy, with a particular focus on the crosstalk between normal or cancer cells and fibroblasts. Understanding these mechanisms is particularly important as several stromal components have been proposed as potential therapeutic targets.
Beaver‐created successional gradients increase β‐diversity of invertebrates by turnover in stream‐wetland complexes
Authors: Bush Bryana M. , Stenert Cristina , Maltchik Leonardo , Batzer Darold P.
Published: April 2019

Beavers are ecosystem engineers known to modify the environment primarily via dam building. Beaver wetlands are complexes of newly created, mature, and abandoned beaver constructions within a stream network. Invertebrate dynamics across all habitats derived from these successional stages remains poorly explored.

Here, we test how this natural successional gradient created by beaver affects invertebrate β‐diversity and its components (turnover and nestedness). Invertebrates were sampled in the Piedmont region of Georgia (U.S.A.) in two seasons (autumn and spring) in each of four stages of habitat succession: natural stream channels, forested wetlands created by newly formed beaver dams, mature open wetland marshes, and abandoned wetland meadows.

In autumn, invertebrate communities were different among successional stages, apart from new versus abandoned wetlands and new versus mature wetlands, which were only marginally different, and streams versus abandoned wetlands. In spring, only the mature beaver wetland communities were unique, differing from both streams and from newly formed or abandoned wetlands. Beta‐diversity was nearly twice as high for the overall study‐system than any individual successional stage, which all had similar diversity. Additionally, turnover was significantly higher than nestedness in all stages.

Community differences combined with high turnover among successional stages indicates that beaver wetland communities are not merely a subset of more stable mature wetlands or streams; instead, each stage has a different taxonomic make‐up. Our results strengthen the idea that beaver activity can be an important conservation tool by contributing substantially to diversity in areas where they are present. Beaver wetlands have the potential to help stabilise β‐ and regional diversity in the face of wetland loss from climate change and other human impacts.
Validating the Life Events Scale for the Elderly with proxy‐based data: A case–control psychological autopsy study in rural China
Authors: Mo Qiqing , Zhou Liang , He Qiuping , Jia Cunxian , Ma Zhenyu
Published: April 2019

Aim

The present study aimed to evaluate the validity of proxy informants’ reports on Life Event Scale for the Elderly (LESE) by using psychological autopsy method among rural older adults in China.

Methods

A multistage stratified cluster sampling method was used to select research sites. Using a case–control psychological autopsy study, face‐to‐face interviews were carried out to collect information from 242 suicide cases and 242 living controls. We compared the intensity and number of life events to assess the validity and reliability of LESE with proxy data reported by different informants. Data from proxy respondents of the living controls were compared with data reported by the targets (gold standards). Intraclass correlation coefficients were computed to evaluate the consistency of informants. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to analyze the convergent validity and discriminate validity of the LESE.

Results

The number of life events between different informants showed higher intraclass correlation coefficients values than the intensity of life events, but the results of correlation analysis was similar. The LESE was positively correlated with depression, loneliness and hopelessness, and negatively correlated with quality of life, family function and social support both in suicide cases and living controls.

Conclusions

The LESE has good convergent validity and discriminant validity. LESE is a valid instrument for measuring life events in psychological autopsy studies. We suggest using the number of life events to assess the validity and reliability with proxy data in a psychological autopsy study, which is more reliable than using the intensity of life events. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 547–551.
Outpatient communication patterns in a cancer hospital in China: A qualitative study of doctor–patient encounters
Authors: Tu Jiong , Kang Ge , Zhong Jiudi , Cheng Yu
Published: April 2019

Objective

The paper characterizes outpatient communication in a major cancer hospital in southern China with regard to the structure, style and focus of doctor–patient communication.

Method

Fifty‐one encounters between doctors and patients were recorded in the outpatient department of the cancer hospital and analysed inductively to identify patterns of doctor–patient outpatient communication.

Results

Outpatient communication in the cancer hospital is characterized by structuralized conversation, doctor domination of the conversation and a focus on technology during communication. These characteristics suggest an extreme inequality of power between Chinese doctors and patients at the individual level. They are also shaped by the institutional environment of Chinese hospitals.

Discussion

Measures should be taken at both the interpersonal and institutional level to improve doctor–patient communication. At the micro‐interpersonal level, public education and professional skills training are needed to improve communication and promote mutual understanding between patients and doctors. At the macro‐institutional level, changes are needed in terms of transforming the structural factors that shape doctor–patient communication.

Conclusions

Structuralized conversation, doctor domination of the conversation and a focus on technology during outpatient encounters present challenges to effective doctor–patient communication. These patterns are shaped by the institutional environment of Chinese hospitals and suggest the extreme power imbalance between Chinese doctors and patients.
Association between trans fatty acid intake and overweight including obesity in 4 to 5‐year‐old children from the INMA study
Authors: Scholz Alexander , Navarrete‐Muñoz Eva Maria , García‐de‐la‐Hera Manuela , Fernandez‐Somoano Ana , Tardon Adonina , Santa‐Marina Loreto , Pereda‐Pereda Eva , Romaguera Dora , Guxens Mònica , Beneito Andrea , Iñiguez Carmen , Vioque Jesus
Published: April 2019

Background

Trans fatty acid (TFA) intake has been positively associated with obesity in adults, although the evidence in children is scarce. There is growing evidence that TFA of industrial or natural origin may have different effects.

Objectives

We aimed to explore the association between total, industrial, and natural TFA intake and overweight including obesity in 4 to 5‐year‐old Spanish children.

Methods

We cross‐sectionally analyzed data of 1744 children aged 4 to 5 from the INMA study, a prospective mother‐child cohort study in Spain. We estimated the intake of total, industrial, and natural TFA in grams per day (g/day) using a validated food frequency questionnaire and expressed it as quartiles. Overweight including obesity was defined according to the International Obesity Task Force criteria. We used multiple logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (95%CI).

Results

After adjusting for major risk factors, the highest quartile of industrial TFA intake (>0.7 g/day) was positively associated with overweight including obesity (OR 1.57, 95%CI 1.13‐2.21, P trend for quartiles 0.01). No significant associations were observed between natural TFA intake and overweight including obesity.

Conclusions

In 4 to 5‐year‐old Spanish children, higher intake of industrial but not natural TFA was positively associated with overweight including obesity.
Dignity‐based practices in Norwegian activation work
Authors: Ohls Carolina
Published: April 2019

This qualitative study sought to identify dignity‐based practices in a Norwegian activation programme − the Qualification Programme. Some welfare recipients are likely to experience shame in connection with their interaction with the welfare system. Previous research suggests that a dignity‐based approach could help welfare recipients to avoid such negative experiences. The operational components of dignity have been identified as autonomy, empathy and rights. Data gathered through individual interviews with participants and activation workers were examined using interpretative phenomenological analysis with a focus on exploring respondents’ perceptions of events to which they ascribe meaning. The findings indicate that accounts of empathy were common, but that the study’s participants seldom reported experiencing that their autonomy and rights were enhanced. Participation in the programme appeared to undermine the participants’ dignity, particularly when individual needs were overlooked. An underlying reason could be the current move away from a comprehensive understanding of service users’ different needs and to a narrow focus on employability.
Pharmacological blockade of the CD39/CD73 pathway but not adenosine receptors augments disease in a humanized mouse model of graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Geraghty Nicholas J , Watson Debbie , Sluyter Ronald
Published: April 2019

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a curative therapy for a number of hematological malignancies, but is limited by the development of graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). CD39 and CD73 form an ectoenzymatic pathway that hydrolyzes extracellular adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine, which respectively exacerbate or alleviate disease in allogeneic mouse models of GVHD. The current study aimed to explore the role of the CD39/CD73 pathway and adenosine receptor (AR) blockade in a humanized mouse model of GVHD. Immunodeficient nonobese diabetic‐severe combined immunodeficiency‐IL‐2 receptor γnull mice were injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and subsequently injected with the CD39/CD73 antagonist αβ‐methylene‐ADP (APCP) (50 mg kg−1) or saline for 7 days, or the AR antagonist caffeine (10 mg kg−1) or saline for 14 days. Mice predominantly engrafted human CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, with smaller proportions of human regulatory T cells, invariant natural killer T cells, monocytes and dendritic cells. Neither APCP nor caffeine altered engraftment of these human leukocyte subsets. APCP (CD39/CD73 blockade) augmented GVHD as shown through increased weight loss and worsened liver histology, including increased leukocyte and human T‐cell infiltration, and increased apoptosis. This treatment also increased serum human IL‐2 concentrations and decreased the frequency of human CD39− CD73− CD4+ T cells. In contrast, caffeine (AR blockade) did not alter GVHD severity or human serum cytokine concentrations (IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10 or tumor necrosis factor‐α). In conclusion, blockade of CD39/CD73 but not ARs augments disease in a humanized mouse model of GVHD. These results indicate that CD39/CD73 blockade maintains sufficient extracellular ATP concentrations to promote GVHD in this model.
The use of omalizumab for treatment‐refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria in a West Australian outpatient cohort
Authors: Farrah Georgia , Stevenson Brittany , Lie Katie , Brusch Anna
Published: April 2019

There is a lack of real‐world data on the use of omalizumab in treatment‐refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). A single‐centre retrospective cohort study was performed to assess the efficacy and safety of omalizumab for treatment‐refractory CSU. The overall response rate of 67% is comparable with that reported in the literature. Disease control and sustained remission can be achieved with omalizumab, even in patients with treatment‐resistant CSU.
Review and Comparison of Computational Approaches for Joint Longitudinal and Time‐to‐Event Models
Authors: Furgal Allison K.C. , Sen Ananda , Taylor Jeremy M.G.
Published: April 2019

Joint models for longitudinal and time‐to‐event data are useful in situations where an association exists between a longitudinal marker and an event time. These models are typically complicated due to the presence of shared random effects and multiple submodels. As a consequence, software implementation is warranted that is not prohibitively time consuming. While methodological research in this area continues, several statistical software procedures exist to assist in the fitting of some joint models. We review the available implementation for frequentist and Bayesian models in the statistical programming languagesR, SAS and Stata. A description of each procedure is given including estimation techniques, input and data requirements, available options for customisation and some available extensions, such as competing risks models. The software implementations are compared and contrasted through extensive simulation, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Data from an ongoing trial on adrenal cancer patients are used to study different nuances of software fitting on a practical example.
Improving species distribution models for invasive non‐native species with biologically informed pseudo‐absence selection
Authors: Chapman Daniel , Pescott Oliver L. , Roy Helen E. , Tanner Rob
Published: April 2019

Aim

We present a novel strategy for species distribution models (SDMs) aimed at predicting the potential distributions of range‐expanding invasive non‐native species (INNS). The strategy combines two established perspectives on defining the background region for sampling “pseudo‐absences” that have hitherto only been applied separately. These are the accessible area, which accounts for dispersal constraints, and the area outside the environmental range of the species and therefore assumed to be unsuitable for the species. We tested an approach to combine these by fitting SDMs using background samples (pseudo‐absences) from both types of background.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Invasive non‐native plants: Humulus scandens, Lygodium japonicum, Lespedeza cuneata, Triadica sebifera, Cinnamomum camphora.

Methods

Presence‐background (or presence‐only) SDMs were developed for the potential global distributions of five plant species native to Asia, invasive elsewhere and prioritised for risk assessment as emerging INNS in Europe. We compared models where the pseudo‐absences were selected from the accessible background, the unsuitable background (defined using biological knowledge of the species’ key limiting factors) or from both types of background.

Results

Combining the unsuitable and accessible backgrounds expanded the range of environments available for model fitting and caused biological knowledge about ecological unsuitability to influence the fitted species‐environment relationships. This improved the realism and accuracy of distribution projections globally and, generally, within the species’ ranges.

Main conclusions

Correlative SDMs remain valuable for INNS risk mapping and management, but are often criticised for a lack of biological underpinning. Our approach partly addresses this concern by using prior knowledge of species’ requirements or tolerances to define the unsuitable background for modelling, while also accommodating dispersal constraints through considerations of accessibility. It can be implemented with current SDM software and results in more accurate and realistic distribution projections. As such, wider adoption has potential to improve SDMs that support INNS risk assessment.
Induced pluripotent stem cell‐conditional medium inhibits H9C2 cardiomyocytes apoptosis via autophagy flux and Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Guo Xiaoling , Gu Xiaohong , Hareshwaree Sohun , Rong Xing , Li Lei , Chu Maoping
Published: April 2019

Induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived conditioned medium (iPS‐CM) could improve cell viability in many types of cells and may be a better alternative for the treatment of myocardial infarction. This study aimed to examine the influence of iPS‐CM on anti‐apoptosis and the proliferation of H9C2 cardiomyocytes and investigate the underlying mechanisms. H9C2 cardiomyocytes were exposed to 200 μmol/L hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) for 24 hours with or without pre‐treatment with iPS‐CM. The ratio of apoptotic cells, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (△Ψm) and the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species were analysed by flow cytometric analysis. The expression levels of BCL‐2 and BAX proteins were analysed by Western blot. Cell proliferation was assessed using cell cycle and EdU staining assays. To study cell senescence, senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) staining was conducted. The levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione were also quantified using commercially available enzymatic kits. The results showed that iPS‐CM containing basic fibroblast growth factor significantly reduced H2O2‐induced H9C2 cardiomyocyte apoptosis by activating the autophagy flux pathway, promoted cardiomyocyte proliferation by up‐regulating the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and inhibited oxidative stress and cell senescence. In conclusion, iPS‐CM effectively enhanced the cell viability of H9C2 cardiomyocytes and could potentially be used to inhibit cardiomyocytes apoptosis to treat myocardial infarction in the future.
Genetic and environmental influences on the stability of psychotic experiences and negative symptoms in adolescence
Authors: Havers Laura , Taylor Mark J. , Ronald Angelica
Published: April 2019

Background

Psychotic experiences (PEs) such as paranoia and hallucinations, and negative symptoms (NS) such as anhedonia and flat affect are common in adolescence. Psychotic experiences and negative symptoms (PENS) increase risk for later psychiatric outcomes, particularly when they persist. The extent to which genetic and environmental influences contribute to the stability of PENS in mid‐to‐late adolescence is unknown.

Methods

Using the Specific Psychotic Experiences Questionnaire (SPEQ) twice across ~9 months in adolescence, N = 1,448 twin pairs [M = 16.32 (0.68)] reported experiences of paranoia, hallucinations, cognitive disorganization, grandiosity and anhedonia, and their parents reported on a range of NS. Individuals were split into low‐scoring, decreasing, increasing and persistent groups for each subscale. Frequencies and mean differences in distress, depression traits and emotional problems were investigated across groups. Longitudinal structural equation modelling was used to estimate the aetiological components underlying the stability of PENS.

Results

Phenotypic stability was moderate for all PENS (r = .59–.69). Persistent PENS across 9 months were associated with greater levels of distress (V = 0.15–0.46, for PEs only), depression traits (d = 0.47–1.67, except grandiosity) and emotional problems (d = 0.47–1.47, except grandiosity and anhedonia) at baseline compared to groups with transitory or low levels of PENS. At both ages PENS were heritable and influenced by shared and nonshared environment. Genetic influences contributed 38%–62% and shared environment contributed 13%–33% to the stability of PENS. Nonshared environment contributed 34%–41% (12% for parent‐rated NS). There was strong overlap of genetic and shared environmental influences across time, and lower overlap for nonshared environment. Imperfect stability of PENS was at least partly due to nonshared environmental influences.

Conclusions

When adolescent PENS persist over time, they are often characterized by more distress, and higher levels of other psychopathology. Both genetic and environmental effects influence stability of PENS.
A digital elevation model based method for a rapid estimation of flood inundation depth
Authors: Manfreda Salvatore , Samela Caterina
Published: April 2019

In recent years, the acquisition of data from multiple sources, together with improvements in computational capabilities, has allowed to improve our understanding on natural hazard through new approaches based on machine learning and Big Data analytics. This has given new potential to flood risk mapping, allowing the automatic extraction of flood prone areas using digital elevation model (DEM) based geomorphic approaches. Most of the proposed geomorphic approaches are conceived mainly for the identification of flood extent. In this article, the DEM‐based method based on a geomorphic descriptor—the geomorphic flood index (GFI)—has been further exploited to predict inundation depth, which is useful for quantifying flood induced damages. The new procedure is applied on a case study located in southern Italy, obtaining satisfactory performances. In particular, the inundation depths are very similar to the ones obtained by hydraulic simulations, with a root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) = 0.335 m, in the domain where 2D dynamics prevail. The reduced computational effort and the general availability of the required data make the method suitable for applications over large and data‐sparse areas, opening new horizons for flood risk assessment at national/continental/global scale.
Where periodontitis meets metabolic syndrome—The role of common health‐related risk factors
Authors: Abdalla‐Aslan Ragda , Findler Mordechai , Levin Liran , Zini Avraham , Shay Boaz , Twig Gilad , Almoznino Galit
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To analyse and compare associations between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in periodontitis compared to control patients.

Methods

This 7‐year cross‐sectional study retrospectively analysed medical records of 504 individuals aged 18‐90 who attended the student dental clinic between 2008 and 2014. Demographics, smoking habits, blood pressure, waist circumference, as well as presence of: periodontitis, MetS, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, stroke, heart disease, cancer and psychiatric disorders were recorded.

Results

The study population composed of 231 (45.8%) males and 273 (54.2%) females, with an average age of 55.79 ± 16.91 years. A patient profile associated with periodontitis was identified and included male sex, older age, smoking, higher smoking pack‐years, abdominal obesity, higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures, the presence of MetS or its components, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes or diseases associated with its consequences such as ischaemic heart disease and stroke.

Following multivariate logistic regression analysis, age and smoking retained a significant association with periodontitis, whereas the systemic disorders did not.

Conclusions

The association between periodontitis and MetS may be explained by shared common profile and risk factors. An appropriate risk factors management approach should be adopted by both dental and general health clinicians and health authorities, to control common high‐risk behaviours.
Survey of oral nursing care attitudes, knowledge and practices in a neurorehabilitation setting
Authors: Odgaard Lene , Kothari Mohit
Published: April 2019

The provision of oral care is an important fundamental nursing activity. The purpose of the study was to gain knowledge on nursing care professionals´ attitude, belief, knowledge and practice towards oral care in a neurorehabilitation setting. Nursing care professionals (n = 260, response rate: 60%) at neurorehabilitation hospital took part in cross‐sectional web‐based 59‐items survey. Attitudes were cross‐tabulated and compared using Fisher's exact test. Oral care product frequencies were compared between patients with/without eating difficulties using McNemar's test. Most professionals agreed that oral health impacts general health (93%) and poor oral health can cause pneumonia (85%). 41% professionals found it difficult to clean the oral cavity and 12% found it unpleasant. 40% indicated that time allocated for oral hygiene was insufficient, 27% indicated a need for broader range of oral care supplies and >80% would like continuing oral care education. Manual toothbrush and toothpaste were used more than once per shift by >75% in all patients. Swabs, premixed mouth rinse, carbonated water and lip moisturiser were more frequently used in patients with eating difficulties compared to with no eating difficulties. Oral care is perceived as an essential component of care in neurorehabilitation. However, professionals indicated lack of time, need for better supplies and oral care training. The differentiated use of oral care products shows that professionals were aware that patients with eating difficulties have different requirements; however, some oral care practices were inappropriate. The results should be considered while designing oral care guidelines and training.
Maternal Buffering of Adolescent Dysregulation in Socially Appetitive Contexts: From Behavior to the Brain
Authors: Rogers Christina R. , Perino Michael T. , Telzer Eva H.
Published: April 2019

Adolescents are more susceptible to dysregulation in positive social contexts, compared to children. We investigated whether maternal presence would buffer these effects in adolescence. Fifty‐four adolescents and children (age range = 8–17 years, Mage = 13.38 years) completed a social go‐nogo task during an fMRI scan alone and in the presence of their mother. We found age‐related patterns, such that older relative to younger youth displayed more disinhibition toward socially appetitive than socially aversive stimuli, which was buffered by maternal presence. Furthermore, with age, maternal buffering in socially appetitive contexts elicited heightened activation in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and amygdala–medial prefrontal cortex connectivity. Findings underscore the importance of caregivers in promoting the neural regulation of their offspring during adolescence.
Effect of ureteral stent diameter on ureteral stent‐related symptoms
Authors: Taguchi Makoto , Yoshida Kenji , Sugi Motohiko , Kinoshita Hidefumi , Matsuda Tadashi
Published: April 2019

Objective

This study investigated the correlation between ureteral stent diameter and stent‐related symptoms.

Methods

This study evaluated 17 patients (53 [74.6%] men, 18 [25.4%] women; mean [±SD] age 59.3 ± 14.2 years) who underwent ureteral stent placement before ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) and in whom the ureteral stent tail was positioned inside the bladder without crossing the midline. All stents were Inlay Optima stents. Stent diameter (6 or 4.7 Fr) and length (24 or 26 cm) were chosen at the surgeon's discretion. Patients were classified into two groups (Group 1, 6‐Fr stent; Group 2, 4.7‐Fr stent). Urinary symptoms before insertion of the ureteral stents and the day before URSL were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS). In addition, patient background and changes in the IPSS and OABSS were compared. Factors affecting ureteral stent‐related symptoms were evaluated using multivariate analysis.

Results

Compared with Group 2, Group 1 had a worse total IPSS (P = 0.02), as well as intermittency (P = 0.009), urgency (P = 0.008), voiding symptoms (Q1 + Q3 + Q5 + Q6; P = 0.046), and storage symptoms (Q2 + Q4 + Q7; P = 0.017) subscores on the IPSS, total OABSS (P = 0.045) and OABSS urgency subscore (P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis revealed that stent diameter was significantly associated with total IPSS (P = 0.007) and OABSS (P = 0.036).

Conclusion

This is the first study to show that larger‐diameter ureteral stents induce significantly worse urinary symptoms. Ureteral stents with smaller diameters are recommended to improve ureteral stent‐related symptoms.
An Assessment of the IMF’s Unemployment Forecasts
Authors: An Zidong , Jalles João Tovar , Loungani Prakash
Published: April 2019

This paper assesses the performance of the IMF’s unemployment forecasts for 84 countries, both advanced and emerging market economies, between 1990 and 2015. The forecasts are reported in the World Economic Outlook, a leading IMF publication. The forecasts display a small amount of bias—they tend to predict lower unemployment outcomes than occur—which arises because the forecasters fail to predict accurately the sharp increase in unemployment during downturns. Forecasts are characterized by inefficiency (errors of the past are repeated in the present) and rigidity (forecast revisions are serially correlated). There is little to choose between IMF and Consensus Forecasts, a source of private sector forecasts, for the small subset of 12 countries for which both sets of forecasts are available.
Planet Four: Craters—Optimizing task workflow to improve volunteer engagement and crater counting performance
Authors: Sprinks J. , Houghton R. , Bamford S. , Morley J. G.
Published: April 2019

Virtual citizen science platforms allow nonscientists to take part in scientific research across a range of disciplines, including planetary science. What is required of the volunteer can vary considerably in terms of task type, variety, judgment required, and autonomy—even when the overall goal is unchanged. Through analysis of our live Zooniverse Planet Four: Craters citizen science platform, the effects of task workflow design factors including volunteer autonomy, task variety, task type, and judgment required on volunteer engagement and crater marking performance were investigated. Website analytics showed volunteers using the Full interface (most autonomy and variety) were more likely to return to the platform, although the amount of time spent per visit was unaffected by the interface used. However, analysis of performance suggested that how this time was used did differ. The interface involving the least complex task resulted in the greatest amount of data and rate of collection, although this also coincided with a greater number of false positives when compared with the expert. Performance in terms of agreement, both between participants and with the expert judgment, was significantly improved when using the Stepped interface for crater position and the Ramped (Mark) when measuring diameter—interfaces that both directly measured the metric with a specific, delineated task. The implications for planetary scientists considering the citizen science route is that there is a balancing act to perform, weighing the importance of volunteer engagement with scientists' data needs and the resources that can be committed to data validation.
Concept mapping to reach consensus on a 6‐month exclusive breastfeeding strategy model to improve the rate in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Thepha Thiwawan , Marais Debbie , Bell Jacqueline , Muangpin Somjit
Published: April 2019

Background

In implementation research, it is essential to involve all stakeholders in the development of complex interventions to ensure that the proposed intervention strategy is relevant and acceptable to the target area and group. The aim of this study was to involve stakeholders in conceptualising, developing, and prioritising a feasible intervention strategy to improve the 6‐month exclusive breastfeeding rate in North‐east Thailand. Concept mapping was used in a purposive sample including health care volunteers, health care professionals, and community leaders. During the first meeting, stakeholders (n = 22) expressed the generation of feasible interventions. During the second meeting, participants (n = 21) were asked to individually rate the feasibility of each intervention and to group them into relevant categories to enable multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. The outputs of analysis included the intervention list, cluster list, point map, point rating map, cluster map, and cluster rating map. All of these were shared with stakeholders (n = 17) during the third meeting to reach consensus on an intervention model. The final proposed intervention strategy included 15 feasible interventions in five clusters: health care services, community services, and education packages for parents, family members, and communities. These interventions were prioritised for implementation over a 3‐year period. Once the feasibility of each intervention is established, the proposed model could be implemented and incorporated into local health policy. After assessing intervention effectiveness, each intervention could be scaled up to other middle‐income countries to help improve overall maternal and child survival.
Child stunting is associated with child, maternal, and environmental factors in Vietnam
Authors: Beal Ty , Le Danh Tuyen , Trinh Thi Huong , Burra Dharani Dhar , Huynh Tuyen , Duong Thanh Thi , Truong Tuyet Mai , Nguyen Duy Son , Nguyen Kien Tri , de Haan Stef , Jones Andrew D.
Published: April 2019

Child stunting in Vietnam has reduced substantially since the turn of the century but has remained relatively high for several years. We analysed data on children 6–59 months (n = 85,932) from the Vietnam Nutritional Surveillance System, a nationally representative cross‐sectional survey. Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to estimate relative risk (RR) of stunting, stratified by child age and ecological region. Covariates at the child, maternal, household, and environmental levels were included based on available data and the World Health Organization conceptual framework on child stunting. Among children 6–23 months, the strongest associations with child stunting were child age in years (RR: 2.49; 95% CI [2.26, 2.73]), maternal height < 145 cm compared with ≥150 cm (RR: 2.04; 95% CI [1.85, 2.26]), living in the Northeast compared with the Southeast (RR: 2.01; 95% CI [1.69, 2.39]), no maternal education compared with a graduate education (RR: 1.77; 95% CI, [1.44, 2.16]), and birthweight < 2,500 g (RR: 1.75; 95% CI [1.55, 1.98]). For children 24–59 months, the strongest associations with child stunting were no maternal education compared with a graduate education (RR: 2.07; 95% CI [1.79, 2.40]), living in the Northeast compared with the Southeast (RR: 1.94; 95% CI [1.74, 2.16]), and maternal height < 145 cm compared with ≥150 cm (RR: 1.81; 95% CI [1.69, 1.94]). Targeted approaches that address the strongest stunting determinants among vulnerable populations are needed and discussed. Multifaceted approaches outside the health sector are also needed to reduce inequalities in socioeconomic status.
Passive acoustic monitoring predicts daily variation in North Atlantic right whale presence and relative abundance in Roseway Basin, Canada
Authors: Durette‐Morin Delphine , Davies Kimberley T. A. , Johnson Hansen D. , Brown Moira W. , Moors‐Murphy Hilary , Martin Bruce , Taggart Christopher T.
Published: April 2019

North Atlantic right whale monitoring in Roseway Basin, Canada, is primarily based on short‐term (<14 d) visual surveys conducted during August–September. Variability in survey effort has been the biggest limiting factor to studying changes in the population's occurrence and habitat use. Such efforts could be enhanced considerably using passive acoustic monitoring (PAM). We sought to determine if variation in whale presence, relative abundance, demography, and/or behavior (estimated through visual surveys) could be explained by variation in three right whale call types in this habitat. A generalized linear model was fit to 23 d of concurrent PAM and visual monitoring during four summers within the Roseway Basin Right Whale Critical Habitat boundaries. The model revealed significant positive relationships between relative abundance, call counts and presence of surface‐active group behavior. PAM can refine daily right whale presence estimates. While visual observations (n= 23 d) implied a 40% decline in right whale presence during 2014–2015 relative to 2004–2005, PAM data (n= 211 d) showed right whales were present between 71%–85% of survey days throughout all years analyzed. We demonstrate that PAM is a useful tool to extend periods of right whale monitoring, especially in areas where visual monitoring efforts may be limited.
Sural nerve pathology in TFG‐associated motor neuron disease with sensory neuropathy
Authors: Li Jia , Meng Lingchao , Wu Rui , Xie Zhiying , Gang Qiang , Zhang Wei , Wang Zhaoxia , Yuan Yun
Published: April 2019

The tropomyosin‐receptor kinase fused gene (TFG) functions in vesicles formation and egress at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). A heterozygous missense mutation c.854C > T (p.Pro285Leu) within TFG has been reported as causative for hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy with proximal predominance. Here, we describe two unrelated Chinese pedigrees with 13 affected members harboring the same variant. The clinical, electrophysiological and pathological findings are consistent with motor neuron disease with sensory neuropathy. The main symptoms were painful muscle cramps, slowly progressive proximal predominant weakness, muscle atrophy, fasciculation and distal sensory disturbance. Electromyography revealed widespread denervation and reinnervation. Sural nerve biopsy revealed severe loss of myelinated fibers. Electron microscopy revealed aggregation of ER with enlarged lumen and small vesicles in the remaining myelinated and unmyelinated axons. The mitochondria are smaller in Schwann cells and axons. Some unmyelinated axons showed disappearance of neurofilament and microtubular structures. This is the first report of c.854C > T mutation within TFG in Chinese population. Our findings not only extend the geographical and phenotypic spectrum of TFG‐related neurological disorders, but also confirm the abnormalities of ER and mitochondria in sural nerves.
Emotional communication with older people: A cross‐sectional study of home care
Authors: Höglander Jessica , Sundler Annelie J. , Spreeuwenberg Peter , Holmström Inger K. , Eide Hilde , van Dulmen Sandra , Eklund Jakob H.
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to explore the influence of characteristics of nurses and older people on emotional communication in home care settings. A generalized, linear, mixed model was used to analyze 188 audio‐recorded home care visits coded with Verona Coding Definitions of Emotional Sequences. The results showed that most emotional distress was expressed by older females or with female nurses. The elicitation of an expression of emotional distress was influenced by the nurses' native language and profession. Older women aged 65–84 years were given the most space for emotional expression. We found that emotional communication was primarily influenced by sex for nurses and older people, with an impact on the frequency of expressions of and responses to emotional distress. Expressions of emotional distress by older males were less common and could risk being missed in communication. The results have implications for students' and health professionals' education in increasing their knowledge of and attentiveness to the impacts of their and others' characteristics and stereotypes on emotional communication with older people.