bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shift in species composition in the Anopheles gambiae complex after implementation of long‐lasting insecticidal nets in Dielmo, Senegal
Authors: SOUGOUFARA S. , HARRY M. , DOUCOURÉ S. , SEMBÈNE P. M. , SOKHNA C.
Published: April 2016

Long‐lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS) are the cornerstones of malaria vector control. However, the effectiveness of these control tools depends on vector ecology and behaviour, which also largely determine the efficacy of certain Anopheles mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) as vectors. Malaria vectors in sub‐Saharan Africa are primarily species of the Anopheles gambiae complex, which present intraspecific differences in behaviour that affect how they respond to vector control tools. The focus of this study is the change in species composition in the An. gambiae complex after the implementation of LLINs in Dielmo, Senegal. The main findings referred to dramatic decreases in the proportions of Anopheles coluzzii and An. gambiae after the introduction of LLINs, and an increase in the proportion of Anopheles arabiensis. Two years after LLINs were first introduced, An. arabiensis remained the most prevalent species and An. gambiae had begun to rebound. This indicated a need to develop additional vector control tools that can target the full range of malaria vectors.
The role of Candida albicans in the severity of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Saroukolaei Shahla Amri , Ghabaee Mojdeh , Shokri Hojjatollah , Badiei Alireza , Ghourchian Shadi
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study was to compare the specific activity of proteinase A in Candida albicans (C. albicans) between multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and controls. A total of 135 and 100 C. albicans strains were isolated from superficial surfaces of MS patients and healthy controls. Analytical models (regression and neural network) were applied to predict the severity of MS considering specific enzyme activity (SEA) and other factors which affect the expanded disability status scale (EDSS). The SEA of C. albicans in MS patients (3466.95 ± 277.25 μmol min−1 mg−1) was significantly more than that of healthy controls (1108.98 ± 294.51 μmol min−1 mg−1) that was confirmed by regression model (P < 0.001). The SEA had a positive correlation with the severity of MS (P < 0.001, r = 0.65). Analytical models showed that SEA played the most important role (among all included factors that affect on EDSS) in the severity of MS. The SEA of C. albicans in MS patients was significantly more than the healthy controls. The results suggest that the level of SEA of proteinase A and probably the capacity of C. albicans isolates to invade the host tissue is associated with the severity of MS.
Conflict at Work, Negative Emotions, and Performance: A Diary Study
Authors: Rispens Sonja , Demerouti Evangelia
Published: April 2016

This study examines how daily conflict events at work affect people's active (anger, contempt) and passive (sadness, guilt) negative emotions and in‐ and extra‐role performance. We introduce the concept of conflict detachment and examined whether this coping strategy alleviates the degree of negative emotions a person feels due to a conflict experience. Sixty‐two individuals from various professions in the Netherlands provided questionnaire and daily survey measures during five consecutive workdays. Multilevel analyses showed that daily relationship and process conflict experiences at work were positively related to daily negative emotions. In addition, the results demonstrated a lagged effect of passive negative emotions: feelings of guilt and sadness predicted lower in‐role and extra‐role performance the following day. We also found that conflict detachment moderated the relationship between daily conflict and negative emotions. We discuss the implications of our findings for organizational practice and suggest possible ways for future research.
Indian chronic kidney disease study: Design and methods
Authors: Kumar Vivek , Yadav Ashok Kumar , Gang Sishir , John Oommen , Modi Gopesh K , Ojha Jai Prakash , Pandey Rajendra , Parameswaran Sreejith , Prasad Narayan , Sahay Manisha , Varughese Santosh , Baid‐Agarwal Seema , Jha Vivekanand
Published: April 2016

Aim

The rate and factors that influence progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in developing countries like India are unknown. A pan‐country prospective, observational cohort study is needed to address these knowledge gaps.

Methods

The Indian Chronic Kidney Disease (ICKD) study will be a cohort study of approximately 5000 patients with mild to moderate CKD presenting to centres that represent different geographical regions in India. Time to 50% decline in baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate, need of renal replacement therapy or any new cardiovascular disease (CVD) event or death from CVD are the primary end points.

Value of Study

This study will provide the opportunity to determine risk factors for CKD progression and development of CVD in Indian subjects and perform international comparisons to determine ethnic and geographical differences. A bio‐repository will provide a chance to discover biomarkers and explore genetic risk factors.
Live donor study – implications of kidney donation on cardiovascular risk with a focus on lipid parameters including lipoprotein a
Authors: Doucet Brian , Kostner Karam , Kaiser Omar , Hawley Carmel , Isbel Nicole
Published: April 2016

In this prospective observational cohort study, we evaluate the change in cardiovascular risk parameters, with a focus on lipids, in live kidney donors 1 year post donation. Body mass index, systolic/diastolic blood pressure, kidney function (chromium‐51 ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid estimated glomerular filtration) and lipid parameters were measured at baseline and 1 year. Data on 87 live kidney donors were collected. Body mass index increased from 26.5 ± 2.7 pre to 27.4 ± 3.0 kg/m2 post donation (p < 0.0001). Chromium‐51 ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid estimated glomerular filtration decreased from 111.8 ± 20.0 pre to 72.1 ± 13.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 post donation (p < 0.0001). Serum triglyceride levels increased from 0.8 (interquartile range 0.6–1.3) pre to 1.0 mmol/L (interquartile range 0.7–1.6) post donation (p = 0.0004). Statin use increased from 11.5% pre to 21% post donation (p < 0.005). Low‐density lipoprotein remained stable, and other lipids (high‐density lipoprotein, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein a) did not change post donation.
Ear length and kidney function decline after kidney donation
Authors: Katavetin Pisut , Watanatorn Salin , Townamchai Natavudh , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Praditpornsilpa Kearkiat
Published: April 2016

The preservation of kidney function after kidney donation depends on the kidney reserve – the potential of the remaining kidney to boost their function after loss of the other kidney. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, size and shape of the external ears are examined to evaluate the person's kidney health. We hypothesized that ear size might be a practical yet overlooked marker of kidney reserve. Fifty kidney transplantation donors were participated in this study. The length and width of both ears of all participants were measured during one of the post‐donation visits. Pre‐donation serum creatinine and post‐donation serum creatinine as well as other relevant parameters (age, sex, weight, height, etc.) of the participants were extracted from medical records. The estimated GFR was calculated from serum creatinine, age and sex using the CKD‐EPI equation. Ear length negatively associated with %GFR decline after kidney donation. For every 1 cm increase in ear length, it was associated with 5.7% less GFR decline after kidney donation (95% Confidence Interval 0.2 to 11.3, P = 0.04). Ear width, as well as age, sex, body weight, height, body mass index, and pre‐donation eGFR did not significantly associate with the GFR decline. Our findings support the notion of Traditional Chinese Medicine that ear morphology may be associated with kidney health and suggest that ear length might be a useful predictor of kidney function decline after kidney donation.
Clinical and morphologic spectrum of renal involvement in patients with HBV‐associated cryoglobulinaemia
Authors: Li Shi‐jun , Xu Shu‐tian , Chen Hui‐ping , Zhang Ming‐chao , Xu Feng , Cheng Shui‐qin , Liu Zhi‐hong
Published: April 2016

Aim

Cryoglobulinaemic glomerulonephritis related to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been rarely reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical features, renal biopsy findings in patients with HBV‐associated cryoglobulinaemia.

Methods

Twelve patients with HBV‐associated cryoglobulinaemia were identified in this study. The demographic, clinical, pathological characteristics, treatment and follow‐up data were analyzed.

Results

Renal involvement was characterized by nephrotic range proteinuria with microscopic haematuria in all patients, and impaired renal function in nine patients (75%). Purpuric rash was the main extrarenal manifestation (58.3%). Type II cryoglobulinaemia was presented in three patients and type III in nine patients. Hypocomplementaemia and positive of rheumatoid factors were present in all patients. Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) was observed in all kidney specimens. Seven patients also had evidence of prominent cryoglobulins thrombi on renal biopsy, but only three patients had HBV antigen deposits in renal tissues. Antiviral and steroids or immunosuppressive agents have been used in most of patients. During follow‐up, two patients died, and four reaching end‐stage renal disease; three patients had complete remission, and three patients had renal function improved after therapy.

Conclusions

Nephrotic syndrome with haematuria and renal insufficiency are the main clinical manifestation; cryoglobulinaemic glomerulonephritis are the main renal lesion in patients with HBV‐Associated cryoglobulinaemia; half of patients have poor outcome even with antiviral and immunosuppressive therapy. The results of this study indicate that cryoglobulins should be detected in hepatitis B virus‐Associated nephropathy in endemic area.
Analysis of clinical presentation, pathological spectra, treatment and outcomes of biopsy‐proven acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis in adult indigenous people of the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Ramanathan Ganesh , Abeyaratne Asanga , Sundaram Madhivanan , Fernandes David Kiran , Pawar Basant , Perry Greg John , Sajiv Cherian , Majoni Sandawana William
Published: April 2016

Aim

Acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis is common in indigenous communities in the Northern Territory, Australia. It is a major risk factor for the high prevalence of chronic kidney disease. We aimed to analyse the clinical presentation, pathological spectra, treatment and outcomes of biopsy‐proven acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis in the Northern Territory.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of all adult patients (≥18 years) who were diagnosed with acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis on native renal biopsies from 01/01/2004 to 31/05/2014. The outcome measure was end‐stage renal disease requiring long‐term dialysis.

Results

Forty‐three of 340 patients who had renal biopsies had acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis. Most were Aboriginals (88.4%). They had co‐morbidities; diabetes mellitus (60.5%), hypertension (60.5%) and smoking (56.4%). Forty‐nine per cent had multiple pathologies on biopsy. Predominant histological pattern was diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis (72%). Main sites of infections were skin (47.6%) and upper respiratory tract infection (26.2%) with streptococcus and staphylococcus as predominant organisms. Fifty per cent of patients developed end‐stage renal disease. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, those on dialysis had higher baseline creatinine (P = 0.003), higher albumin/creatinine ratio at presentation (P = 0.023), higher serum creatinine at presentation (P = 0.02) and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate at presentation (P = 0.012).

Conclusion

Overall, most patients had pre‐existing pathology with superimposed acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis that led to poor outcomes in our cohort.
The phylogenetic relationship and non‐specific symbiotic habit of mycorrhiza fungi from a terrestrial orchid (Cymbidium)
Authors: Li Jie , Wang Renrui , Wang Zhina , Kuang Ping
Published: April 2016

To investigate the specificity of the symbiotic relationship between Cymbidium plants and their mycorrhiza fungi, thirty mycorrhiza fungi were isolated from roots of six terrestrial Cymbidium species. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with universal fungal primers ITS1/ITS4. All fungal strains isolated from natural roots of orchids were inoculated into the rhizomes of in vitro Cymbidium goeringii. Phylogenetic analysis indicated fungal isolates of different cluster could be obtained from a special terrestrial Cymbidium species. Observation of light microscope and scanning electron microscope showed that fungi entered the cortical tissue by destroying cell wall of epidermal cells, where they formed hyphal knots in the cortical cells and were digested gradually. A large number of small protuberances were visible on cross sections of the rhizome. There was no strict inter‐species specificity between the isolated mycorrhiza fungi and terrestrial Cymbidium.
Morphological responses to different flooding regimes in Carex brevicuspis
Authors: Gao Han , Tan Huaizhi , Xie Yonghong , Zhou Mingxing , Li Feng , Zhu Lianlian
Published: April 2016

Water regime can be described by the depth, duration, frequency, and timing and predictability of flooded and dry phases. Despite growing recognition of the importance of water regimes in the regulation of plant growth and distribution, which components of water regimes that determine plant growth are not well known. To identify the causative components, 72 ramets of Carex brevicuspis were grown under six different water regime treatments (treatment A: constant 0 cm water level; treatment B: constant 30 cm water level; treatment C: 0 cm water level to 30 cm water level for 30 days, repeated 2 times; treatment D: 30 cm water level to 0 cm water level for 30 days, repeated 2 times; treatment E: 0 cm water level to 30 cm water level for 5 days, repeated 12 times; and treatment F: 30 cm water level to 0 cm water level for 5 days, repeated 12 times). Biomass accumulation, below:above ground biomass ratio, number of ramets, and proportions of spreading and clumping ramet were assessed. Biomass accumulation decreased only in relation to length of flooding. The highest biomass accumulation occurred in the 120‐day + 0 cm water level treatment, it was intermediate in the four 60 day + 30 cm water level treatments, and lowest in the 120 day + 30 cm water level treatment. Likewise, the below:above ground ratio decreased only with increasing length of flooding. Ramet number was highest in the 120 day + 0 cm water level treatment, intermediate in the four 60 day + 30 cm water level treatments, and lowest in the 120 day + 30 cm water level treatment. The proportion of spreading ramets increased from 28.0% in the 120 day + 0 cm water level treatment to 76.4% in the 120 day + 30 cm water level treatment. These data suggest that the growth of C. brevicuspis was only limited by the duration of flooding. Reduction of the below:above ground ratio and change from phalanx to guerrilla growth form are effective strategies for C. brevicuspis to acclimate to flooding stress, because they allow the plant to grow above the water surface and escape from anoxic conditions. Our study provides experimental information on the role of different components of water regimes in regulating plant growth, and may assist in protection and restoration of the C. brevicuspis community.
Systematic wood anatomy of the tribe Phyllantheae (Phyllanthaceae, Euphorbiaceae s.l.) from India: implication in reinstatement of Phyllanthus, Glochidion and allies
Authors: Jangid Prem Prakash , Gupta Sangeeta
Published: April 2016

The present paper provides a comprehensive wood anatomical survey of sixteen Indian species belonging to six genera, viz. Breynia, Flueggea, Glochidion, Leptopus, Margaritaria and Phyllanthus, of Phyllantheae (Phyllanthaceae). Systematic relationships were evaluated within the Phyllantheae with special emphasis on wood anatomical distinctiveness and recognition of genera within the super‐genus Phyllanthus s.l. Except for Leptopus, the wood microstructure of all genera was found to be largely homogeneous. The results confirm the generic identity of Glochidion, Phyllanthus and Breynia s.l. (including Sauropus) within Phyllanthus s.l. and supports the segregation of Leptopus from Phyllantheae. Further, the results did not favour the placement of P. columnaris and P. polyphyllus in same subsection ‘Polyphylli’ of Emblica sect. Emblica. Ecological and evolutionary aspects of the wood anatomy within the tribe are also discussed.
Determinants and clinical impact of pressure drift in manoscan anorectal high resolution manometry system
Authors: Parthasarathy G. , McMaster J. , Feuerhak K. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Bharucha A. E.
Published: April 2016

Background

Pressure drift (PD), resulting from differences between room and body temperature, reduces the accuracy of pressure measurements with the Manoscan high resolution manometry (HRM) system. Our aims were to assess PD during anorectal HRM.

Methods

Defined as the residual pressure measured immediately after the catheter was removed, PD was calculated for each sensor and averaged across all 12 sensors in 454 anorectal consecutive studies recorded with 3 HRM catheters. The relationship between PD and study duration, number of prior uses of a catheter, and peak and average pressure exposure during a study were evaluated. The correction of PD with a software algorithm (thermal compensation) was evaluated in 76 studies where the most distal sensor was outside the body.

Key Results

The PD varied among sensors and across catheters. The average PD (7.3 ± 0.2 mmHg) was significantly greater for newer catheters, during longer studies, or when sensors were exposed to higher pressures. Together, these factors explained 81% of the variance in overall PD. After thermal compensation, the uncorrected median PD for the most distal sensor was 2.5–5 mmHg over the study duration. Correcting this changed the interpretation (e.g., as abnormal instead of normal) of at least 1 anorectal parameter in eight of 76 studies.

Conclusions & Inferences

During anorectal HRM, PD declines with catheter use and is greater for newer catheters, when sensors are exposed to higher pressures, and for studies of longer duration. While PD is partially corrected with thermal compensation algorithms, the impact on interpretation is modest.
Competency based medical education in gastrointestinal motility
Authors: Yadlapati R. , Keswani R. N. , Pandolfino J. E.
Published: April 2016

Traditional apprenticeship‐based medical education methods focusing on subjective evaluations and case‐volume requirements do not reliably produce clinicians that provide high‐quality care in unsupervised practice. Consequently, training approaches are shifting towards competency based medical education, which incorporates robust assessment methods and credible standards of physician proficiency. However, current gastroenterology and hepatology training in the US continues to utilize procedural volume and global impressions without standardized criteria as markers of competence. In particular, efforts to optimize competency based training in gastrointestinal (GI) motility are not underway, even though GI motility disorders account for nearly half of outpatient gastroenterology visits. These deficiencies compromise the quality of patient care. Thus, there is a great need and opportunity to shift our focus in GI motility training towards a competency based approach. First, we need to clarify the variable rates of learning for individual diagnostic tests. We must develop integrated systems that standardize training and monitor physician competency for GI motility diagnostics. Finally, as a profession and society, we must create certification processes to credential competent physicians. These advances are critical to optimizing the quality of GI motility diagnostics in practice.
A commonly used ecto‐ATPase inhibitor, ARL‐67156, blocks degradation of ADP more than the degradation of ATP in murine colon
Authors: Durnin L. , Moreland N. , Lees A. , Mutafova‐Yambolieva V. N.
Published: April 2016

Background

Adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP) is released extracellularly as a neurotransmitter and an autocrine or paracrine mediator in numerous systems, including the gastrointestinal tract. It is rapidly degraded to active and inactive metabolites by membrane‐bound enzymes. Investigators frequently use inhibitors of ATP hydrolysis such as ARL‐67156 and POM‐1 to suppress the catabolism of ATP and prolong its effects in pharmacological studies. Our aim was to investigate directly the effects of ARL‐67156 and POM‐1 on the degradation of ATP and adenosine 5′‐diphosphate (ADP) in mouse colonic muscles.

Methods

The degradation of ATP and ADP was evaluated by superfusing tissues with 1,N6‐etheno‐ATP (eATP) and 1,N6‐etheno‐ADP (eADP) as substrates and monitoring the decrease in substrate and increase in products (i.e., eADP, eAMP, and e‐adenosine) by high‐performance liquid chromatography techniques with fluorescence detection. Relaxation responses to etheno‐derivatized and non‐derivatized ATP and ADP were examined in isometric tension experiments.

Key Results

ARL‐67156 inhibits the degradation of ADP but not of ATP, whereas POM‐1 inhibits the degradation of ATP but not of ADP in murine colonic muscles. Consequently, ARL‐67156 enhances relaxation responses to both ATP and ADP, whereas POM‐1 reduces relaxation to ATP and does not affect relaxation to ADP.

Conclusions & Inferences

Studies that use ARL‐67156 to inhibit ATP degradation in smooth muscle likely evaluate responses to accumulated ADP rather than ATP. POM‐1 appears to be a more selective inhibitor of ATP degradation in the mouse colon. The choice of pharmacological tools in studies on extracellular ATP signaling may affect the interpretation of experimental data in functional studies.
Roles of sucrose in guard cell regulation
Authors: Daloso Danilo M. , dos Anjos Leticia , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: April 2016

The control of stomatal aperture involves reversible changes in the concentration of osmolytes in guard cells. Sucrose has long been proposed to have an osmolytic role in guard cells. However, direct evidence for such a role is lacking. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that sucrose may perform additional roles in guard cells. Here, we provide an update covering the multiple roles of sucrose in guard cell regulation, highlighting the knowledge accumulated regarding spatiotemporal differences in the synthesis, accumulation, and degradation of sucrose as well as reviewing the role of sucrose as a metabolic connector between mesophyll and guard cells. Analysis of transcriptomic data from previous studies reveals that several genes encoding sucrose and hexose transporters and genes involved in gluconeogenesis, sucrose and trehalose metabolism are highly expressed in guard cells compared with mesophyll cells. Interestingly, this analysis also showed that guard cells have considerably higher expression of C4‐marker genes than mesophyll cells. We discuss the possible roles of these genes in guard cell function and the role of sucrose in stomatal opening and closure. Finally, we provide a perspective for future experiments which are required to fill gaps in our understanding of both guard cell metabolism and stomatal regulation.
Understanding the roles of nonstructural carbohydrates in forest trees – from what we can measure to what we want to know
Authors: Hartmann Henrik , Trumbore Susan
Published: April 2016

Carbohydrates provide the building blocks for plant structures as well as versatile resources for metabolic processes. The nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC), mainly sugars and starch, fulfil distinct functional roles, including transport, energy metabolism and osmoregulation, and provide substrates for the synthesis of defence compounds or exchange with symbionts involved in nutrient acquisition or defence. At the whole‐plant level, NSC storage buffers the asynchrony of supply and demand on diel, seasonal or decadal temporal scales and across plant organs. Despite its central role in plant function and in stand‐level carbon cycling, our understanding of storage dynamics, its controls and response to environmental stresses is very limited, even after a century of research. This reflects the fact that often storage is defined by what we can measure, that is, NSC concentrations, and the interpretation of these as a proxy for a single function, storage, rather than the outcome of a range of NSC source and sink functions. New isotopic tools allow direct quantification of timescales involved in NSC dynamics, and show that NSC‐C fixed years to decades previously is used to support tree functions. Here we review recent advances, with emphasis on the context of the interactions between NSC, drought and tree mortality.

Contents

Summary
386

I.
Introduction
386

II.
NSC in plant function: synthesis, classes, roles and responses to drought
388

III.
Tools and approaches for quantifying NSC dynamics
392

IV.
What is the spatial and temporal distribution of NSC in trees?
392

V.
Studies on the use of NSC in plant functioning – progress towards answering longstanding questions
396

VI.
Summary and conclusion
399

Acknowledgements
399

References
399
A fungal endophyte helps plants to tolerate root herbivory through changes in gibberellin and jasmonate signaling
Authors: Cosme Marco , Lu Jing , Erb Matthias , Stout Michael Joseph , Franken Philipp , Wurst Susanne
Published: April 2016

Plant–microbe mutualisms can improve plant defense, but the impact of root endophytes on below‐ground herbivore interactions remains unknown. We investigated the effects of the root endophyte Piriformospora indica on interactions between rice (Oryza sativa) plants and its root herbivore rice water weevil (RWW; Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus), and how plant jasmonic acid (JA) and GA regulate this tripartite interaction.

Glasshouse experiments with wild‐type rice and coi1‐18 and Eui1‐OX mutants combined with nutrient, jasmonate and gene expression analyses were used to test: whether RWW adult herbivory above ground influences subsequent damage caused by larval herbivory below ground; whether P. indica protects plants against RWW; and whether GA and JA signaling mediate these interactions.

The endophyte induced plant tolerance to root herbivory. RWW adults and larvae acted synergistically via JA signaling to reduce root growth, while endophyte‐elicited GA biosynthesis suppressed the herbivore‐induced JA in roots and recovered plant growth.

Our study shows for the first time the impact of a root endophyte on plant defense against below‐ground herbivores, adds to growing evidence that induced tolerance may be an important root defense, and implicates GA as a signal component of inducible plant tolerance against biotic stress.
Framing obesity in UK policy from the Blair years, 1997–2015: the persistence of individualistic approaches despite overwhelming evidence of societal and economic factors, and the need for collective responsibility
Authors: Ulijaszek Stanley J. , McLennan Amy K.
Published: April 2016

Since 1997, and despite several political changes, obesity policy in the UK has overwhelmingly framed obesity as a problem of individual responsibility. Reports, policies and interventions have emphasized that it is the responsibility of individual consumers to make personal changes to reduce obesity. The Foresight Report ‘Tackling Obesities: Future Choices’ (2007) attempted to reframe obesity as a complex problem that required multiple sites of intervention well beyond the range of personal responsibility. This framing formed the basis for policy and coincided with increasing acknowledgement of the complex nature of obesity in obesity research. Yet policy and interventions developed following Foresight, such as the Change4Life social marketing campaign, targeted individual consumer behaviour. With the Conservative‐Liberal Democrat government of 2011, intervention shifted to corporate and individual responsibility, making corporations voluntarily responsible for motivating individual consumers to change. This article examines shifts in the framing of obesity from a problem of individual responsibility, towards collective responsibility, and back to the individual in UK government reports, policies and interventions between 1997 and 2015. We show that UK obesity policies reflect the landscape of policymakers, advisors, political pressures and values, as much as, if not more than, the landscape of evidence. The view that the individual should be the central site for obesity prevention and intervention has remained central to the political framing of population‐level obesity, despite strong evidence contrary to this. Power dynamics in obesity governance processes have remained unchallenged by the UK government, and individualistic framing of obesity policy continues to offer the path of least resistance. © 2016 World Obesity
Modeling winter moth Operophtera brumata egg phenology: nonlinear effects of temperature and developmental stage on developmental rate
Authors: Salis Lucia , Lof Marjolein , van Asch Margriet , Visser Marcel E.
Published: April 2016

Understanding the relationship between an insect's developmental rate and temperature is crucial to forecast insect phenology under climate change. In the winter moth Operophtera brumata timing of egg‐hatching has severe fitness consequences on growth and reproduction as egg‐hatching has to match bud burst of the host tree. In the winter moth, as in many insect species, egg development is strongly affected by ambient temperatures. Here we use laboratory experiments to show for the first time that the effect of temperature on developmental rate depends on the stage of development of the eggs. Building on this experimental finding, we present a novel physiological model to describe winter moth egg development in response to temperature. Our model, a modification of the existing Sharpe−Schoolfield biophysical model, incorporates the effect of developmental stage on developmental rate. Next we validate this model using a 13‐year data‐set from winter moth eggs kept under ambient conditions and compared this validation with a degree day model and with the Sharpe−Schoolfield model, which lacks the interaction between temperature and developmental stage on developmental rate. We show that accounting for the interaction between temperature and developmental stage improved the predictive power of the model and contributed to our understanding of annual variation in winter moth egg phenology. As climate change leads to unequal changes in temperatures throughout the year, a description of insect development in response to realistic patterns of temperature rather than an invariable degree‐day approach will help us to better predict future responses of insect phenology, and thereby insect fitness, to climate change.
Is there a link between passive smoke exposure and early‐onset myopia in preschool Asian children?
Authors: Chua Sharon Yu Lin , Ikram Mohammad Kamran , Tan Chuen Seng , Stone Richard A. , Cai Shirong , Gluckman Peter D , Yap Seng Chong , Yap Fabian , Wong Tien‐Yin , Ngo Cheryl S. , Saw Seang‐Mei ,   The GUSTO Study Group
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To investigate the association of passive tobacco smoke exposure with early‐onset myopia among three‐year‐old children in Singapore.

Methods

Pregnant mothers who attended their first trimester clinic at two major maternity units were recruited into the GUSTO birth cohort. The current analysis comprised 572 three‐year‐old children, who underwent cycloplegic autorefraction and axial length (AL) measurements. Myopia was defined as spherical equivalent (SE) of ≤−0.50 dioptres (D). Either parent completed questionnaires describing their child's exposure to passive smoke at six months, one and two years of age.

Results

There were 197 children (36.2%) who were exposed to passive smoke from birth to before six months. Compared to non‐exposed children, children exposed to any passive smoke from birth to before six months experienced greater myopia prevalence (adjusted OR = 2.79; 95% CI: 1.24–6.29; p = 0.01). The odds of myopia in a child was greater if a smoker smokes at home, in the family car, or in the presence of the child (adjusted OR = 3.95; 95% CI: 1.41–11.09; p < 0.01) compared to non‐exposed child. In contrast to myopia, childhood exposure to passive smoke did not systematically shift mean values for SE or AL.

Conclusions

In this prospective birth cohort study, we found that childhood exposure to passive smoke from birth to before six months slightly increased the risk of early‐onset myopia. This may indicate a delayed response to passive smoke exposure before six months and the development of myopia at three years of age. Our study is limited by the small number of myopic children at this young age. Thus, larger prospective studies using more objective cotinine level measures are required to fully establish and understand the influence of tobacco smoke on refractive development in older children.
The value of Tablets as reading aids for individuals with central visual field loss: an evaluation of eccentric reading with static and scrolling text
Authors: Walker Robin , Bryan Lauren , Harvey Hannah , Riazi Afsane , Anderson Stephen J.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Technological devices such as smartphones and tablets are widely available and increasingly used as visual aids. This study evaluated the use of a novel app for tablets (MD_evReader) developed as a reading aid for individuals with a central field loss resulting from macular degeneration. The MD_evReader app scrolls text as single lines (similar to a news ticker) and is intended to enhance reading performance using the eccentric viewing technique by both reducing the demands on the eye movement system and minimising the deleterious effects of perceptual crowding. Reading performance with scrolling text was compared with reading static sentences, also presented on a tablet computer.

Methods

Twenty‐six people with low vision (diagnosis of macular degeneration) read static or dynamic text (scrolled from right to left), presented as a single line at high contrast on a tablet device. Reading error rates and comprehension were recorded for both text formats, and the participant's subjective experience of reading with the app was assessed using a simple questionnaire.

Results

The average reading speed for static and dynamic text was not significantly different and equal to or greater than 85 words per minute. The comprehension scores for both text formats were also similar, equal to approximately 95% correct. However, reading error rates were significantly (p = 0.02) less for dynamic text than for static text. The participants’ questionnaire ratings of their reading experience with the MD_evReader were highly positive and indicated a preference for reading with this app compared with their usual method.

Conclusions

Our data show that reading performance with scrolling text is at least equal to that achieved with static text and in some respects (reading error rate) is better than static text. Bespoke apps informed by an understanding of the underlying sensorimotor processes involved in a cognitive task such as reading have excellent potential as aids for people with visual impairments.
Miniaturized Implantable Loop Recorder in Small Patients: An Effective Approach to the Evaluation of Subjects at Risk of Sudden Death
Authors: PLACIDI SILVIA , DRAGO FABRIZIO , MILIONI MADDALENA , VERTICELLI LETIZIA , TAMBURRI ILARIA , SILVETTI MASSIMO STEFANO , DI MAMBRO CORRADO , RIGHI DANIELA , GIMIGLIANO FABRIZIO , RUSSO MARIO SALVATORE , PALMIERI ROSALINDA , REMOLI ROMOLO , SANTUCCI LORENZO MARIA , TOZZI ALBERTO EUGENIO
Published: April 2016

Background

The etiological diagnosis of syncope and/or palpitations in children is often challenging. However, when noninvasive conventional examinations are inconclusive, the subcutaneous miniaturized implantable loop recorder (ILR) is recommended. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of miniaturized cardiac implantable devices in the early diagnosis of arrhythmias in children ≤6 years.

Methods

From March 2014 to May 2015, 21 patients (median age 5 years) underwent implantation of miniaturized ILR at our Institution after a complete cardiac work up. Median follow‐up was 10 months.

Results

One patient underwent device removal for pocket infection and one needed a pocket revision. Eleven (52%) patients did not show any symptom and/or arrhythmia. Eight patients experienced symptoms during ILR monitoring: six had no electrocardiographic abnormalities, two had significant sinus pauses. Two patients had significant arrhythmias without symptoms and in one of these a pacemaker was implanted. The overall diagnostic yield was 47%.

Conclusions

Miniaturized ILR could be very useful to make a diagnosis and to decide future management strategies in small patients with undefined symptoms or severe cardiac diseases. Considering its characteristics, miniaturized ILR could start a new era in the diagnosis and follow‐up of young patients with symptomatic and/or malignant arrhythmias.
Epidural insertion height for ureteric reimplant surgery; does location matter?
Authors: Sommerfield David , Ramgolam Anoop , Barker Andrew , Bergesio Ric , von Ungern‐Sternberg Britta S
Published: April 2016

Background

Surgical correction of vesicoureteric reflux through ureteric reimplantation is a common, highly successful treatment. Postoperative pain can be severe and may relate to somatic wound pain from the lower abdominal incision or from visceral bladder spasm pain.

Aim

To conduct a prospective quality improvement audit to compare four perioperative analgesic techniques.

Methods

Observational data were collected on 217 patients following open ureteroneocystostomy over 5 days. The patients were split into four groups: (i) ‘morphine’ infusion; (ii) ‘caudal’—single‐shot caudal; (iii) ‘epidural’—epidural catheter inserted at T10‐L2 given a bolus, followed by an infusion of 0.125% bupivacaine with fentanyl 2 μg·ml−1; (iv) ‘caudal catheter’—caudal placed epidural catheter was treated similar to the epidural catheter. Data regarding postoperative analgesic interventions were recorded. Intravesical pethidine was used for bladder spasm pain and i.v. morphine for wound pain.

Results

Over the study period, the caudal catheter technique (mean interventions/patient = 1.8 ± 2.6) and the single‐shot caudal (6.1 ± 4) needed significantly less bladder spasm interventions than morphine (9.2 ± 4) and epidural (8.0 ± 4.4) patients. For wound pain, the caudal catheter (8.8 ± 3.3) and epidural groups (11.4 ± 3.2) needed significantly less interventions than morphine (16.1 ± 3) and caudal (15.3 ± 3.3) patients. Overall, caudal catheter patients on average required about half the number of pain interventions and were associated with less high nursing workload.

Conclusions

Despite some limitations in data collection and study design, the caudal catheter technique was superior at reducing pain interventions, particularly bladder spasm interventions. Overall epidural analgesia was not superior to a single‐shot caudal followed by opioid infusion. The issue of bladder spasm may be similar to the phenomenon of sacral sparing in obstetric epidural anesthesia. Thus, regional techniques, such as caudal epidural, targeting a better balance between sacral and lumber nerves are required.
Cricoid and left bronchial diameter in the pediatric population
Authors: Wani Tariq M. , Rafiq Mahmood , Terkawi Rayan , Moore‐Clingenpeel Melissa , AlSohaibani Mazen , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: April 2016

Background

Lung isolation in the pediatric population can be problematic. The diameter and length of the right and left mainstem bronchi are not well described in young children. Information regarding these measurements may help determine the appropriate size of endotracheal tubes for endobronchial intubation as well as the development of lung isolation devices for the pediatric population. The present study is based on computed tomography (CT) measurements to evaluate airway dimensions. The goal of this study was to define the relationship between the diameters of the left mainstem bronchus (LMSB) and the cricoid ring, and to study the effect of age, weight, and height on these dimensions.

Methods

The two‐dimensional CT images of 102 children, ranging in age from 1 month to 10 years, undergoing radiological evaluation unrelated to airway symptomatology were examined. The cricoid dimensions (anteroposterior and transverse diameters) were measured using transverse plane images. The LMSB diameter was measured below the carina along the long axis of left main bronchus. Univariate regression analysis was used to determine whether one or more of the variables (age, gender, height, weight) had a predictable relationship with the cricoid and the LMSB diameters.

Results

The cricoid as well as the LMSB diameters increase with age, height, and weight. The relationship between the cricoid diameter and the LMSB diameter remains constant across all ages with a ratio of 0.78 ± 0.14. This ratio was slightly larger for girls than boys (0.81 ± 0.16 vs 0.77 ± 0.13).

Conclusion

The cricoid to LMSB ratio (relationship) remains constant with respect to age, height, and weight.
A pilot study of dexmedetomidine sedation and caudal anesthesia for inguinal hernia repair in infants
Authors: Bong Choon L. , Yeo Angela S. H. , Fabila Teddy , Tan Josephine S. K.
Published: April 2016

Background

Recent concerns regarding possible long‐term effects of early anesthesia exposure on neurodevelopment in children have provided an impetus to explore alternative anesthetic techniques using potentially neuroprotective agents. Dexmedetomidine has not been implicated in anesthesia‐induced neurotoxicity and has been shown to be neuroprotective in preclinical studies. We describe a case series of 50 neonates and infants who received dexmedetomidine sedation with caudal anesthesia instead of general endotracheal anesthesia for inguinal hernia surgery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review on all neonates and infants who underwent inguinal hernia surgery with dexemetomidine sedation and caudal anesthesia in our institution. We started exploring this technique since October 2011 and established a protocol of administering dexmedetomidine 2 mcg·kg−1 over 10 min, followed by 1 mcg·kg−1 over the next 10 min. This led to satisfactory conditions for caudal placement in 20 min, with minimal need for airway intervention during surgery.

Results

The median gestational age of the infants was 31.4 (28.7, 36.0) weeks and median postconceptual age was 39.7 weeks (IQR 37.8, 45.7) at time of surgery. Of patients, 86% had surgery successfully completed under this technique alone. Seven patients required sevoflurane or nitrous oxide due to failed caudal block (n = 1) or difficult or prolonged surgery (n = 6). After establishing the sedation protocol and excluding patients with large or complicated hernias, the success rate was 96%. Transient intra‐operative apnea or hypoventilation occurred in five patients and postoperative apnea in two patients. All respiratory events were easily reversed and no patient developed significant bradycardia or required intubation.

Conclusions

Dexmedetomidine sedation with caudal anesthesia is a feasible alternative to spinal or general anesthesia in selected infants undergoing uncomplicated hernia surgery. It avoids the need for endotracheal intubation and may be potentially beneficial in avoiding the unknown effects of general anesthesia on neurodevelopment.
Significant Difference in Hydrogen Isotope Composition Between Xylem and Tissue Water in Populus Euphratica
Authors: Zhao Liangju , Wang Lixin , Cernusak Lucas A. , Liu Xiaohong , Xiao Honglang , Zhou Maoxian , Zhang Shiqiang
Published: April 2016

Deuterium depletions between stem water and source water have been observed in coastal halophyte plants and in multiple species under greenhouse conditions. However, the location(s) of the isotope fractionation is not clear yet and it is uncertain whether deuterium fractionation appears in other natural environments. In this study, through two extensive field campaigns utilizing a common dryland riparian tree species Populus euphratica Oliv., we showed that no significant δ18O differences were found between water source and various plant components, in accord with previous studies. We also found that no deuterium fractionation occurred during P. euphratica water uptake by comparing the deuterium composition (δD) of groundwater and xylem sap. However, remarkable δD differences (up to 26.4‰) between xylem sap and twig water, root water and core water provided direct evidence that deuterium fractionation occurred between xylem sap and root or stem tissue water. This study indicates that deuterium fractionation could be a common phenomenon in drylands, which has important implications in plant water source identification, palaeoclimate reconstruction based on wood cellulose and evapotranspiration partitioning using δD of stem water.
Functional consequences of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder on children and their families
Authors: Usami Masahide
Published: April 2016

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with core symptoms that include hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention, and it is the most common psychiatric disorder among children and adolescents. These core symptoms are continuously recognized throughout the day from childhood to adulthood. Furthermore, children with ADHD from childhood to adulthood might also have various comorbid psychiatric disorders. Recently, bipolar disorder and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, a new clinical issue, have been discussed as comorbid disorders or differential disorders associated with ADHD. Furthermore, comorbid disorders of ADHD are related to quality of life and family burden. Children with ADHD have poorer long‐term outcomes than controls with respect to: academic achievement and attainment, occupational rank and job performance, risky sexual practices and early unwanted pregnancies, substance use, relationship difficulties, marital problems, traffic violations, and car accidents. Irritability of children with ADHD has been a key symptom that clinicians and researchers have used to evaluate the developmental condition of children with ADHD. ADHD is sometimes a chronic disorder that occurs over a long period, increasing the family burden of these children (including health‐care costs), which will increase with aging for unremitted children with ADHD. Therefore, clinicians should evaluate not only the mental condition of the child but also the family burden. Children with ADHD should be treated during childhood to reduce their clinical symptoms and family burden.