bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the genetic diversity of microsatellite markers among four strains of Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Dias M. A. D. , de Freitas R. T. F. , Arranz S. E. , Villanova G. V. , Hilsdorf A. W. S.
Published: March 2016

Different strains of Nile tilapia can be found worldwide. To successfully use them in breeding programs, they must be genetically characterized. In this study, four strains of Nile tilapia – UFLA, GIFT, Chitralada and Red‐Stirling – were genetically characterized using 10 noncoding microsatellite loci and two microsatellites located in the promoter and first intron of the growth hormone gene (GH). The two microsatellites in the GH gene were identified at positions −693 to −679 in the promoter [motif (ATTCT)8] and in intron 1 at positions +140 to +168 [motif (CTGT)7]. Genetic diversity was measured as mean numbers of alleles and expected heterozygosity, which were 4 and 0.60 (GIFT), 3.5 and 0.71 (UFLA), 4.5 and 0.57 (Chitralada) and 2.5 and 0.42 (Red‐Stirling) respectively. Genetic differentiation was estimated both separately and in combination for noncoding and GH microsatellites markers using Jost's DEST index. The UFLA and GIFT strains were the least genetically divergent (DEST = 0.10), and Chitralada and Red‐Stirling were the most (DEST = 0.58). The UFLA strain was genetically characterized for the first time and, because of its unique origin and genetic distinctness, may prove to be an important resource for genetic improvement of Nile tilapia. This study shows that polymorphisms found in coding gene regions might be useful for assessing genetic differentiation among strains.
Analysis of genomic copy number variation in equine recurrent airway obstruction (heaves)
Authors: Ghosh S. , Das P. J. , McQueen C. M. , Gerber V. , Swiderski C. E. , Lavoie J.‐P. , Chowdhary B. P , Raudsepp T.
Published: March 2016

We explored the involvement of genomic copy number variants (CNVs) in susceptibility to recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), or heaves—an asthmalike inflammatory disease in horses. Analysis of 16RAO‐susceptible (cases) and sixRAO‐resistant (control) horses on a custom‐made whole‐genome 400K equine tiling array identified 245CNVregions (CNVRs), 197 previously known and 48 new, distributed on all horse autosomes and the X chromosome. Among the newCNVRs, 30 were exclusively found inRAOcases and were further analyzed by quantitativePCR, including additional cases and controls. Suggestive association (P = 0.03; correctedP = 0.06) was found betweenRAOand a loss on chromosome 5 involvingNME7,a gene necessary for ciliary functions in lungs and involved in primary ciliary dyskinesia in humans. TheCNVRcould be a potential marker forRAOsusceptibility but needs further study in additionalRAOcohorts. OtherCNVRs were not associated withRAO, although several involved genes of interest, such asSPI2/SERPINA1from the serpin gene family, which are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma in humans. TheSPI2/SERPINA1CNVRshowed striking variation among horses, but it was not significantly different betweenRAOcases and controls. The findings provide baseline information on the relationship betweenCNVs andRAOsusceptibility. Discovery of newCNVs and the use of a larger population ofRAO‐affected and control horses are needed to shed more light on their significance in modulating this complex and heterogeneous disease.
Helicobacter pylori in children with asthmatic conditions at school age, and their mothers
Authors: den Hollander W. J. , Sonnenschein‐van der Voort A. M. M. , Holster I. L. , de Jongste J. C. , Jaddoe V. W. , Hofman A. , Perez‐Perez G. I. , Moll H. A. , Blaser M. J. , Duijts L. , Kuipers E. J.
Published: March 2016

Background

Helicobacter pylori prevalence in Western countries has been declining simultaneously with increases in childhood asthma and allergic diseases; prior studies have linked these phenomena.

Aims

To examine the association between H. pylori colonisation in children and risk of asthma and related conditions at school age. We secondly examined additional effects of maternal H. pylori status by pairing with children's status.

Methods

This study was embedded in a multi‐ethnic population‐based cohort in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. We measured anti‐H. pylori and anti‐CagA antibodies in serum of children obtained at age 6 years, and of their mothers obtained during midpregnancy. Asthma or related conditions were reported for children at age 6 years. We used multivariate logistic regression analyses among 3797 subjects.

Results

In children, the H. pylori positivity rate was 8.7%, and 29.2% of these were CagA‐positive. A child's colonisation with a CagA‐negative‐H. pylori strain was associated with an increased risk of asthma (Odds ratio 2.11; 95% CI 1.23–3.60), but this differed for European (3.64; 1.97–6.73) and non‐European (0.52; 0.14–1.89) children. When taking into account maternal H. pylori status, only H. pylori‐positive children with an H. pylori‐negative mother had increased risk of asthma (2.42; 1.11–5.27), accounting for 3.4% of the asthma risk.

Conclusions

Colonisation of a European child with a CagA‐negative‐H. pylori strain at age 6 was associated with an increased prevalence of asthma, but there was no association for non‐European children. The underlying mechanisms for the observed risk differences require further research.
Development of behavioural regulation in Do and Don't contexts among behaviourally inhibited Chinese children
Authors: He Jie , Zhai Shuyi , Lou Liyue , Zhang Qing , Li Zhuyun , Shen Mowei
Published: March 2016

Behavioural inhibition influences the development of behavioural regulation in early childhood. Previous studies have mainly focused on the relationship between inhibition and regulation in the Don't context (e.g., inhibitory control), while few have investigated this relationship in the Do context (e.g., task persistence). This longitudinal study examined the effect of temperamental inhibition on behavioural regulation during both the Do and Don't contexts in 112 Chinese preschoolers. At 3.5 years of age, children's behavioural inhibition was assessed by behavioural observation and parental report, and then at 4.5 years of age, their regulatory behaviours were measured in the following two challenging contexts: Do [locked box (LB)] and Don't [toy inhibition (TI)]. In each task, children were randomly assigned to either a high‐ or a low‐incentive condition designed to vary the value of a given goal. Results suggested that higher inhibition was associated with poorer regulation (lower task persistence) in both conditions of the Do context (LB), whereas in the Don't context (TI) highly inhibited children showed better regulation (less violation behaviours) in the low‐incentive condition than they did in the high‐incentive condition. The results highlight the context characteristics and goal incentive as important factors for behavioural regulation development in inhibited children in China.
Mental Fitness for patients with acute coronary syndrome: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Chiavarino Claudia , Cavallero Erika , Rabellino Daniela , Palumbo Luigi , Bianchino Claudia , Gaita Fiorenzo , Bergerone Serena , Bara Bruno G.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to verify the efficacy of a manualized, cognitively oriented psychological intervention, called Mental Fitness, in improving the mental and physical health of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Mental Fitness is a small‐group four‐session treatment aimed at increasing awareness of one's own bodily perceptions, emotions, and thoughts and is overall tailored on participants' perception of control over their health.

Design

Prospective randomized controlled single‐blind trial.

Methods

Patients with ACS were recruited within a week from their acute cardiac event. Patients in the intervention group underwent one of two variants of Mental Fitness, depending on their perceived (internal or external) control over their health. Patients in the control group underwent standard treatment. All the patients were submitted to a clinical and psychological follow‐up for 8 months.

Results

The patients who underwent the Mental Fitness intervention (N = 31) showed, compared to the control patients (N = 34), increased quality of life in its physical, psychological, social and environmental domains, more functional emotional and problem‐centred coping strategies, and higher emotional awareness. They also showed improved high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, heart rate, and left ventricular ejection fraction compared to the controls. In addition, they were more successful in maintaining physical exercise.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the efficacy of Mental Fitness in modifying specific psychological and physical variables conditioning cardiological patients' prognosis. It also confirms the importance of differentiating psychological interventions based on the psychological characteristics of the patients.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Traditional symptom‐based interventions in heart disease are aimed at diagnosing and reducing psychological symptomatology (e.g., depression), but recent work has shown the usefulness of orienting psychological interventions to patients' representations of themselves and of the world and to how such representations influence their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours (e.g., Chiavarino et al., ).

What does this study add?

Mental Fitness, by working on awareness of bodily perceptions, emotions, and thoughts, leads to positive changes in physical and psychological health.

Mental Fitness is a cost‐effective psychological intervention that adds significantly to the effectiveness of standard medical care.
Quantification provides a conceptual basis for convergent evolution
Authors: Speed Michael P. , Arbuckle Kevin
Published: March 2016

While much of evolutionary biology attempts to explain the processes of diversification, there is an important place for the study of phenotypic similarity across life forms. When similar phenotypes evolve independently in different lineages this is referred to as convergent evolution. Although long recognised, evolutionary convergence is receiving a resurgence of interest. This is in part because new genomic data sets allow detailed and tractable analysis of the genetic underpinnings of convergent phenotypes, and in part because of renewed recognition that convergence may reflect limitations in the diversification of life. In this review we propose that although convergent evolution itself does not require a new evolutionary framework, none the less there is room to generate a more systematic approach which will enable evaluation of the importance of convergent phenotypes in limiting the diversity of life's forms. We therefore propose that quantification of the frequency and strength of convergence, rather than simply identifying cases of convergence, should be considered central to its systematic comprehension. We provide a non‐technical review of existing methods that could be used to measure evolutionary convergence, bringing together a wide range of methods. We then argue that quantification also requires clear specification of the level at which the phenotype is being considered, and argue that the most constrained examples of convergence show similarity both in function and in several layers of underlying form. Finally, we argue that the most important and impressive examples of convergence are those that pertain, in form and function, across a wide diversity of selective contexts as these persist in the likely presence of different selection pressures within the environment.
The impact of disease activity and tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitor therapy on cytokine levels in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Walters H M , Pan N , Lehman T J A , Adams A , Kalliolias G D , Zhu Y S , Santiago F , Nguyen J , Sitaras L , Cunningham-Rundles S , Walsh T J , Toussi S S
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively cytokine levels and disease activity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients treated with and without tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors. TNF-α inhibitor-naive JIA subjects were followed prospectively for 6 months. Cytokine levels of TNF-α, interleukin (IL)−1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-17 were measured at baseline for JIA subjects and healthy controls (HCs). Cytokine levels were then measured at four time-points after initiation of TNF-α inhibition for anti-TNF-α-treated (anti-TNF) JIA subjects, and at two subsequent time-points for other JIA (non-TNF) subjects. JIA disease activity by Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) disability index/pain score and physician joint count/global assessment was recorded. Sixteen anti-TNF, 31 non-TNF and 16 HCs were analysed. Among JIA subjects, those with higher baseline disease activity (subsequent anti-TNFs) had higher baseline TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 than those with lower disease activity (non-TNFs) (P < 0·05). TNF-α and IL-10 increased, and IL-6 and IL-8 no longer remained significantly higher after TNF-α inhibitor initiation in anti-TNF subjects. Subgroup analysis of etanercept versus adalimumab-treated subjects showed that TNF-α and IL-17 increased significantly in etanercept but not adalimumab-treated subjects, despite clinical improvement in both groups of subjects. JIA subjects with increased disease activity at baseline had higher serum proinflammatory cytokines. TNF-α inhibition resulted in suppression of IL-6 and IL-8 in parallel with clinical improvement in all anti-TNF-treated subjects, but was also associated with elevated TNF-α and IL-17 in etanercept-treated subjects.
The first phylogenetic study of Mesembrinellidae (Diptera: Oestroidea) based on molecular data: clades and congruence with morphological characters
Authors: Marinho Marco Antonio Tonus , Wolff Marta , Ramos‐Pastrana Yardany , de Azeredo‐Espin Ana Maria Lima , Amorim Dalton de Souza
Published: March 2016

The Mesembrinellidae (Diptera: Oestroidea) comprise a small group of strictly Neotropical calyptrate flies, with 36 described species. The group has often been treated as a subfamily of Calliphoridae, but there is growing evidence that it corresponds to a distinct Oestroidea lineage. Internal relationships have so far been addressed based only on morphology, with results lacking resolution and support. This is the first molecular phylogeny for the group, which is based on the analyses of 80 terminal taxa (22 mesembrinellid and 28 outgroup species) and 5 molecular markers (ITS2, 28S, COI, COII and 16S). Maximum‐parsimony, maximum‐likelihood and Bayesian inference methods were used, the latter two with partitioning strategies considering codon position and secondary structure information. Results corroborate the Mesembrinellidae as a monophyletic lineage inside Oestroidea. Three clades were consistently recovered: (1) (Laneella + Mesembrinella patriciae); (2) (Mesembrinella (excluding M. patriciae)  + Eumesembrinella); and (3) (Huascaromusca + Giovanella). Re‐examination of the female reproductive tract of M. patriciae revealed a Laneela‐type spermatheca, which corroborates the position of the species recovered in the molecular phylogenetic analyses. Mesembrinella and Huascaromusca are in all cases paraphyletic with regards to Eumesembrinella and Giovanella, respectively. These latter two genera should, thus, be seen as subjective junior synonyms.
Metabolism of aceclofenac in cattle to vulture‐killing diclofenac
Authors: Galligan T. H. , Taggart M. A. , Cuthbert R. J. , Svobodova D. , Chipangura J. , Alderson D. , Prakash V. M. , Naidoo V.
Published: March 2016

The nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac is highly toxic to Gyps vultures, and its recent widespread use in South Asia caused catastrophic declines in at least 3 scavenging raptors. The manufacture of veterinary formulations of diclofenac has since been banned across the region with mixed success. However, at least 12 other NSAIDs are available for veterinary use in South Asia. Aceclofenac is one of these compounds, and it is known to metabolize into diclofenac in some mammal species. The metabolic pathway of aceclofenac in cattle, the primary food of vultures in South Asia, is unknown. We gave 6 cattle the recommended dose of aceclofenac (2 mg/kg), collected blood thereafter at intervals for up to 12 h, and used liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry in a pharmacokinetic analysis of aceclofenac and diclofenac in the plasma. Nearly all the aceclofenac administered to the cattle was very rapidly metabolized into diclofenac. At 2 h, half the aceclofenac had been converted into diclofenac, and at 12 h four‐fifths of the aceclofenac had been converted into diclofenac. Therefore, administering aceclofenac to livestock poses the same risk to vultures as administering diclofenac to livestock. This, coupled with the risk that aceclofenac may replace diclofenac in the veterinary market, points to the need for an immediate ban on all aceclofenac formulations that can be used to treat livestock. Without such a ban, the recovery of vultures across South Asia will not be successful.
Private Landowners, Voluntary Conservation Programs, and Implementation of Conservation Friendly Land Management Practices
Authors: Farmer James R. , Ma Zhao , Drescher Michael , Knackmuhs Eric G. , Dickinson Stephanie L.
Published: March 2016

Private land conservation mechanisms are critical components employed by policy makers and conservation professionals to support the stewardship and protection of vital ecosystem services. While most research on voluntary conservation programs focuses on motives and barriers to participation, little is known about landowner activities and ecological status once property is enrolled in programs. Our mailed survey to landowners with property enrolled in the Indiana Classified Forest and Wildlands Program in U.S.A. revealed that (1) environmental motives, (2) residential motives like family life, and (3) having more land enrolled in the program were strong predictors of individuals who implemented conservation actions such as removal of invasive species and control of erosion. We also found that landowners witnessing environmental improvements on their land reported more conservation actions than those perceiving unchanged environmental conditions. A better understanding of landowner perceptions and conservation outcomes can help policy makers improve private land conservation programs.
Phenological response of a key ecosystem function to biological invasion
Authors: Alp Maria , Cucherousset Julien , Buoro Mathieu , Lecerf Antoine
Published: March 2016

Although climate warming has been widely demonstrated to induce shifts in the timing of many biological events, the phenological consequences of other prominent global change drivers remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of biological invasions on the seasonality of leaf litter decomposition, a crucial freshwater ecosystem function. Decomposition rates were quantified in 18 temperate shallow lakes distributed along a gradient of crayfish invasion and a temperature‐based model was constructed to predict yearly patterns of decomposition. We found that, through direct detritus consumption, omnivorous invasive crayfish accelerated decomposition rates up to fivefold in spring, enhancing temperature dependence of the process and shortening the period of major detritus availability in the ecosystem by up to 39 days (95% CI: 15–61). The fact that our estimates are an order of magnitude higher than any previously reported climate‐driven phenological shifts indicates that some powerful drivers of phenological change have been largely overlooked.
Neurology of the cryopyrin‐associated periodic fever syndrome
Authors: Parker T. , Keddie S. , Kidd D. , Lane T. , Maviki M. , Hawkins P. N. , Lachmann H. J. , Ginsberg L.
Published: March 2016

Background and purpose

The cryopyrin‐associated periodic fever syndrome (CAPS) is an autosomal dominant autoinflammatory disorder caused by mutations in the NLRP3 gene and is typified by recurrent episodes of systemic inflammation resulting in fever, urticarial rash and arthralgia. In addition to these systemic aspects, CAPS has multiple neurological manifestations. The largest case series to date is presented focusing on the neurological features of this disorder.

Methods

The case histories of a cohort of 38 UK patients with genetically proven CAPS who were treated with interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) inhibition as part of a national treatment programme and underwent detailed neurological assessment were reviewed.

Results

Across the entire disease course neurological manifestations were present in 95% of patients; 84% had some form of headache; 66% sensorineural hearing loss; 60% myalgia; 34% papilloedema and 26% optic atrophy. Patients with the T348M mutation tended to have a more severe neurological phenotype with an earlier age of onset. Four patients had cerebrospinal fluid examination, three of whom had evidence of aseptic meningitis. There was a marked response to IL‐1β inhibition, which has revolutionized management of these patients (29/32 patients with headache responding).

Conclusion

Neurological symptoms are extremely common in CAPS and these results highlight the importance of increasing awareness amongst neurologists, particularly as highly effective therapies are available.
Relationship Education for Military Couples: Recommendations for Best Practice
Authors: Bakhurst Melissa G. , Loew Benjamin , McGuire Annabel C.L. , Halford W. Kim , Markman Howard J.
Published: March 2016

Military couples have a number of distinctive strengths and challenges that are likely to influence their relationship adjustment. Military couples' strengths include stable employment, financial security, and subsidized health and counseling services. At the same time, military couples often experience long periods of separation and associated difficulties with emotional disconnect, trauma symptoms, and reintegrating the family. This paper describes best practice recommendations for working with military couples, including: addressing the distinctive challenges of the military lifestyle, ensuring program delivery is seen as relevant by military couples, and providing relationship education in formats that enhance the accessibility of programs.
A Case Study of Extension in Florida
Authors: Gutter Michael S.
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this article was to describe the role of Extension in Florida. Because Florida is diverse in geography, population, industry, and income, the challenges include low‐wage jobs, income inequality, and food insecurity. Opportunities for Extension in Florida include collaboration with other organizations, the use of volunteers, innovative programming, and diverse opportunities for funding.
Attitudes and Acceptability of Behavior Change Techniques to Promote Healthy Food Choices Among Danish Adolescents
Authors: Nørnberg Trine Riebeling , Skov Laurits Rohden , Houlby Louise , Pérez‐Cueto Federico Jose Armando
Published: March 2016

This study addressed attitudes of using nudging‐like measures in community schools to promote healthy food choices among Danish adolescents. Data were successfully collected for 408 respondents. The next step was to prepare descriptive statistics and conduct factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Respondents were positive toward less intrusive interventions, but they had negative attitudes toward interventions targeting their self‐image. Self‐reported level of vegetable intake, healthy food habits, and eco‐consciousness had the strongest positive association. Respondents considered it to be acceptable for the school to attempt to intervene with their health‐related behavior, but respondents saw it as neither the school's obligation nor responsibility. School‐based health promotion could benefit from these findings.
Structural mechanisms of plant glucan phosphatases in starch metabolism
Authors: Meekins David A. , Vander Kooi Craig W. , Gentry Matthew S.
Published: March 2016

Glucan phosphatases are a recently discovered class of enzymes that dephosphorylate starch and glycogen, thereby regulating energy metabolism. Plant genomes encode two glucan phosphatases, called Starch EXcess4 (SEX4) and Like Sex Four2 (LSF2), that regulate starch metabolism by selectively dephosphorylating glucose moieties within starch glucan chains. Recently, the structures of both SEX4 and LSF2 were determined, with and without phosphoglucan products bound, revealing the mechanism for their unique activities. This review explores the structural and enzymatic features of the plant glucan phosphatases, and outlines how they are uniquely adapted to perform their cellular functions. We outline the physical mechanisms used by SEX4 and LSF2 to interact with starch glucans: SEX4 binds glucan chains via a continuous glucan‐binding platform comprising its dual‐specificity phosphatase domain and carbohydrate‐binding module, while LSF2 utilizes surface binding sites. SEX4 and LSF2 both contain a unique network of aromatic residues in their catalytic dual‐specificity phosphatase domains that serve as glucan engagement platforms and are unique to the glucan phosphatases. We also discuss the phosphoglucan substrate specificities inherent to SEX4 and LSF2, and outline structural features within the active site that govern glucan orientation. This review defines the structural mechanism of the plant glucan phosphatases with respect to phosphatases, starch metabolism and protein–glucan interaction, thereby providing a framework for their application in both agricultural and industrial settings.
Celebrity humanitarianism, transnational emotion and the rise of neoliberal citizenship
Authors: MITCHELL KATHARYNE
Published: March 2016

Celebrity humanitarianism is a form of advocacy for the poor and ill, primarily those populations residing in developing regions of the world. Often the celebrities attempt to galvanize support and care for these distant populations through various kinds of emotional practices, which are promoted and sustained across space through the invocation of community and the use of new social media. The articulation of community, empathy and fan activism creates an experience of citizenship that appears to transcend national borders and enables affective relations between distant individuals and places. In this article, I analyse the mechanisms of emotion in the constitution of these deterritorialized networks, including the specific practices and pastoral language that draw individuals into feelings of transnational solidarity, through fan groups and fan–celebrity engagement. Further, I address the ways in which the emotional enrolment of individuals in this vein can be read as part of a larger process of neoliberal citizenship formation and depoliticization, in which subjects are subtly directed away from state‐based responses to problems of poverty and ill health, and towards more individualized, enterprising, and market‐mediated forms of social aid.
Transnational disruptions: materialities and temporalities of transnational citizenship among Somali refugees in Cairo
Authors: PASCUCCI ELISA
Published: March 2016

Literature on both transnationalism and ‘lived citizenship’ has highlighted the multiple, fluid and simultaneous character of migrant experiences of belonging. Geographers, however, have questioned this emphasis on mobility, connections and simultaneity, regrounding research on migrant transnationalism through the study of materiality and embodiment, and pointing to the salience of temporality in defining contemporary migration and asylum regimes. Drawing on ethnographic research with Somali refugees living in Cairo, Egypt, in this article I explore the material and temporal ‘disruptions’ that mark their condition at three interrelated levels. These are the experience of ‘time suspension’ associated with maintaining transnational family connections, the uncertain temporalities characterizing the work of humanitarian agencies, and the ‘everyday emergencies’ that mark daily life in a Cairo neighbourhood. Through the heuristic lens of materiality and assemblage geographies, through the analysis I hope to offer a more nuanced account of the tension between ‘fluidity’ and groundedness in refugees’ transnational practices, as well as an appraisal of the role temporalities and materialities play in emerging forms of ‘irregular citizenship’ in the Global South.
Migrants' capacity as actors of development: do skills matter for economic and social remittances?
Authors: STURGE GEORGINA , BILGILI ÖZGE , SIEGEL MELISSA
Published: March 2016

Highly skilled migrants are presumably in a better position than less skilled ones to contribute to development in their countries of origin, largely by way of economic and social remittances. In this article, we use unique data on first‐generation migrants in the Netherlands to test how economic and social remittances differ by skill level. We find that the highly skilled are more likely to remit, to remit larger amounts and to give advice on education, jobs and health matters. Thus, we identify the highly skilled as having a greater capacity to affect development than have migrants of other skill levels. However, nuances exist with respect to this overall result. We illustrate that the low and medium skilled also show some capacity to affect economic development and that a medium skill level is sufficient to be in a position to transfer significantly more knowledge and skills.
Outcome of liver transplantation in patients with hereditary bleeding disorders: a single centre UK experience
Authors: Murthy V. , Murray D. , Hebballi S. , Bramhall S. , Lester W. , Mutimer D. , Wilde J.
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Patients with hereditary bleeding disorders who have developed end‐stage liver disease as a consequence of hepatitis C infection (HCV) acquired from factor concentrates prior to the introduction of viral inactivation continue to be referred for liver transplantation.

Methods

A retrospective review of case notes and electronic records was performed on all patients with bleeding disorders who have undergone liver transplantation at the University Hospital Birmingham (UHB).

Results

Between 1990 and 2014, 35 liver transplants have been performed in 33 patients with hereditary bleeding disorders. The indication for transplantation was mainly end‐stage liver disease secondary to HCV. Five patients had human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co‐infection. No excess mortality due to bleeding occurred in the peri or postoperative period. Median overall survival post transplant is 9.7 years. Overall survival rates at 1, 3 and 5 years are 90%, 72% and 64% respectively. The predominant cause of mortality was liver failure secondary to either recurrent HCV or recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The median overall survival in patients with HIV co‐infection is shorter than in those with mono‐infection but this is not statistically significant. Patients with a pre‐existing HCC had a statistically significant shorter survival (2.4 years vs. 13.6 years, P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Liver transplantation has become an accepted treatment option for patients with hereditary bleeding disorders and HCV associated end‐stage liver disease with survival rates similar to non‐bleeding disorder patients.
Hypertension and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease proven by transient elastography
Authors: Wang Yaohui , Zeng Yuhua , Lin Changwei , Chen Zhiheng
Published: March 2016

Aim

The relationship between non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hypertension is poorly understood. In the present study, we aimed to assess the relationship between essential hypertension and NAFLD, by using a new diagnostic tool, transient elastography (TE).

Methods

We enrolled 836 subjects in this study. All subjects underwent a comprehensive questionnaire survey and blood test. Each patient had undergone TE to detect the controlled attenuation parameter, which was used to and quantify liver steatosis with the help of TE.

Results

Participants with hypertension showed a higher prevalence of NAFLD defined by TE (P < 0.05). After adjusting for body mass index (BMI), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, the odds ratio for NAFLD, comparing the grade 3 group (systolic blood pressure level ≥ 180 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure level ≥ 110 mmHg) with the normal group, was 1.476 (95% confidence interval, 1.166–2.551). A stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis (R2 = 0.084, P = 0.043) retained NAFLD, BMI, and AST as significant predictors of the systolic blood pressure levels. Additionally, stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis (R2 = 0.199, P = 0.037) retained NAFLD, controlled attenuation parameter, BMI, triglycerides, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol as significant predictors of diastolic blood pressure levels. In addition, BMI, AST, and alanine aminotransferase were associated with systolic blood pressure levels among individuals with NAFLD; BMI, AST, and total cholesterol were associated with diastolic blood pressure levels among individuals with NAFLD.

Conclusion

The main finding of our study is that hypertensive patients have a higher prevalence of NAFLD defined by TE, and NAFLD is independently associated with hypertension and blood pressure category.
The provision of oral hygiene instructions and patient motivation in a dental care system without dental hygienists
Authors: Thevissen E , De Bruyn H , Koole S
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Oral hygiene instructions (OHI) and patient motivation (PM), often provided by dental hygienists, are essential attributes to establishing good oral health in patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the provision of OHI and PM by dental professionals in a dental care system without dental hygienists.

Methods and materials

A questionnaire, including 22 items (demographics, OHI and PM), was presented to 1037 dental professionals (=21.6% Flemish population). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the provision of OHI and PM. Additionally, the Fisher–Freeman–Halton exact test was used to investigate the influence of qualification (general practitioner/specialist), work experience (< or ≥ 25 years), workload (< or ≥ 30 h), location of practice (rural/urban) and chair‐side assistance (with/without).

Results

Response rate was 75%. Participants reported a single strategy for preventive care and felt their efforts were not in harmony with the results. Lack of time, remuneration and patient interest were reported as complicating factors and participants agreed on allowing assistants to provide preventive care. Significant variance was found based on qualification (12/17 items), work experience (7/17 items), workload (1/17 items), location of practice (2/17 items) and chair‐side assistance (15/17 items).

Conclusion

In a context without dental hygienists, OHI and PM appeared non‐compliant with current international guidelines. Although dental professionals were concerned with preventive dentistry, they reported barriers including lack of time, remuneration and patient compliance. Almost all participants expressed the need for delegation of in‐mouth OHI, suggesting a need for dental hygienists.
Plasmodium yoelii infection of BALB/c mice results in expansion rather than induction of CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells
Authors: Abel Simone , Ueffing Kristina , Tatura Roman , Hutzler Marina , Hose Matthias , Matuschewski Kai , Kehrmann Jan , Westendorf Astrid M. , Buer Jan , Hansen Wiebke
Published: March 2016

Recently, we demonstrated elevated numbers of CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells in Plasmodium yoelii‐infected mice contributing to the regulation of anti‐malarial immune response. However, it remains unclear whether this increase in Treg cells is due to thymus‐derived Treg cell expansion or induction of Treg cells in the periphery. Here, we show that the frequency of Foxp3+ Treg cells expressing neuropilin‐1 (Nrp‐1) decreased at early time‐points during P. yoelii infection, whereas percentages of Helios+ Foxp3+ Treg cells remained unchanged. Both Foxp3+ Nrp‐1+ and Foxp3+ Nrp‐1− Treg cells from P. yoelii‐infected mice exhibited a similar T‐cell receptor Vβ chain usage and methylation pattern in the Treg‐specific demethylation region within the foxp3 locus. Strikingly, we did not observe induction of Foxp3 expression in Foxp3− T cells adoptively transferred to P. yoelii‐infected mice. Hence, our results suggest that P. yoelii infection triggered expansion of naturally occurring Treg cells rather than de novo induction of Foxp3+ Treg cells.
SHARPIN controls the development of regulatory T cells
Authors: Redecke Vanessa , Chaturvedi Vandana , Kuriakose Jeeba , Häcker Hans
Published: March 2016

SHARPIN is an essential component of the linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC) complex that controls signalling pathways of various receptors, including the tumour necrosis factor receptor (TNFR), Toll‐like receptor (TLR) and antigen receptor, in part by synthesis of linear, non‐degrading ubiquitin chains. Consistent with SHARPIN's function in different receptor pathways, the phenotype of SHARPIN‐deficient mice is complex, including the development of inflammatory systemic and skin diseases, the latter of which depend on TNFR signal transduction. Given the established function of SHARPIN in primary and malignant B cells, we hypothesized that SHARPIN might also regulate T‐cell receptor (TCR) signalling and thereby control T‐cell biology. Here, we focus primarily on the role of SHARPIN in T cells, specifically regulatory T (Treg) cells. We found that SHARPIN‐deficient (Sharpincpdm/cpdm) mice have significantly reduced numbers of FOXP3+ Treg cells in lymphoid organs and the peripheral blood. Competitive reconstitution of irradiated mice with mixed bone marrow from wild‐type and SHARPIN‐deficient mice revealed an overall reduced thymus population with SHARPIN‐deficient cells with almost complete loss of thymic Treg development. Consistent with this cell‐intrinsic function of SHARPIN in Treg development, TCR stimulation of SHARPIN‐deficient thymocytes revealed reduced activation of nuclear factor‐κB and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, establishing a function of SHARPIN in TCR signalling, which may explain the defective Treg development. In turn, in vitro generation and suppressive activity of mature SHARPIN‐deficient Treg cells were comparable to wild‐type cells, suggesting that maturation, but not function, of SHARPIN‐deficient Treg cells is impaired. Taken together, these findings show that SHARPIN controls TCR signalling and is required for efficient generation of Treg cells in vivo, whereas the inhibitory function of mature Treg cells appears to be independent of SHARPIN.
Blinking Bird Brains: A Timing Specific Deficit in Auditory Learning in Quail Hatchlings
Authors: Harshaw Christopher , Lickliter Robert
Published: March 2016

Contingency perception is critical during infancy, providing the basis for the continuous learning (and re‐learning) of the relation between the developing body, self‐produced actions, and the environment. Nevertheless, relatively few studies have systematically examined the spatiotemporal parameters that optimize learning during development. Here, we present a series of experiments exploring a novel timing‐specific deficit in auditory learning in an animal model, the bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus). In this paradigm, chicks vocalize to hear playback of an unfamiliar maternal call and are later tested for their filial preference for that call over a novel maternal call. Rather than a simple, hyperbolic decline in learning with increased delay between chick vocalization and playback, we found a window—450–900 msec after chicks ceased vocalizing—in which chicks appeared to have difficulty learning and forming a preference for the maternal call. This deficit nonetheless occurred only when the spatial location of call playback switched semi‐randomly during training, suggesting an attentional explanation for this deficit. Our findings indicate that optimization of the temporal parameters in operant paradigms with infants can be complex, particularly if tasks requiring the switching of attention between spatial locations. Our findings may thus be instructive for other developmental research with infants employing operant components.
Crisis averted: How consumers experienced a police and clinical early response (PACER) unit responding to a mental health crisis
Authors: Evangelista Eloisa , Lee Stuart , Gallagher Angela , Peterson Violeta , James Jo , Warren Narelle , Henderson Kathryn , Keppich‐Arnold Sandra , Cornelius Luke , Deveny Elizabeth
Published: March 2016

When mental health crisis situations in the community are poorly handled, it can result in physical and emotional injuries. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the experiences and opinions of consumers about the way police and mental health services worked together, specifically via the Alfred Police and Clinical Early Response (A‐PACER) model, to assist people experiencing a mental health crisis. Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted with 12 mental health consumers who had direct contact with the A‐PACER team between June 2013 and March 2015. The study highlighted that people who encountered the A‐PACER team generally valued and saw the benefit of a joint police‐mental health clinician team response to a mental health crisis situation in the community. In understanding what worked well in how the A‐PACER team operated, consumers perspectives can be summarized into five themes: communication and de‐escalation, persistence of the A‐PACER team, providing a quick response and working well under pressure, handover of information, and A‐PACER helped consumers achieve a preferred outcome. All consumers acknowledged the complementary roles of the police officer and mental health clinician, and described the A‐PACER team's supportive approach as critical in gaining their trust, engagement and in de‐escalating the crises. Further education and training for police officers on how to respond to people with a mental illness, increased provision of follow‐up support to promote rehabilitation and prevent future crises, and measures to reduce public scrutiny for the consumer when police responded, were proposed opportunities for improvement.
Dysfunctional attitude mediates the relationship between psychopathology and Internet addiction among Korean college students: A cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Noh Dabok , Kim Sunah
Published: March 2016

Internet addiction is of growing concern and college students are particularly vulnerable. This study examines the mediating effect of dysfunctional attitude on the association between psychopathology (depression and social anxiety) and Internet addiction among Korean college students. A sample of 159 college students from one university was obtained via an online survey. Participants completed a depression scale, social avoidance and distress scale, dysfunctional attitude scale, and Internet addiction test. Overall, 25.8% of students were classified as problematic Internet users. Use of the Internet for gaming and general Internet use time were significantly associated with Internet addiction, and specific uses of the Internet differed by gender. In multiple regression and mediation analyses with bootstrapping, dysfunctional attitude completely mediated the association between depression and Internet addiction, and partially mediated the association between social anxiety and Internet addiction. The assessment for those at risk of Internet addiction should include evaluation of depression, social anxiety, and dysfunctional attitude. The mediation role of dysfunctional attitude indicated the need for nurses to attend not only to psychopathology but also to cognition regarding problematic Internet use, particularly for college students.
High‐Temperature Structural Evolution of the Disordered LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4
Authors: Vitucci Francesco M. , Paolone Annalisa , Palumbo Oriele , Greco Giorgia , Lombardo Lucia , Köntje Melanie , Latini Alessandro , Panero Stefania , Brutti Sergio
Published: March 2016

In this work, we present our recent results about the changes induced on a crystalline bulk LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 disordered cubic spinel phase by thermal treatments carried out under different back atmospheres (vacuum and air). Our aim is to describe the structural changes induced by temperature in various conditions both on the long range (by means of XRD) and on the short range around Mn/Ni metal sites (by means of EXAFS) and to investigate the reversible oxygen loss and adsorption upon heating and cooling, respectively. In summary, the LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 phase suffers large structural modifications above 650°C both under vacuum and air. These alterations are closely related to the occurrence of large oxygen vacancies in the anionic sublattice due to spontaneous oxygen loss via the gas phase. Apparently, local and long‐range distortions from the pristine disordered cubic spinel structure are completely reversible in air upon cooling from high temperature, whereas under vacuum, the structural alterations are permanent.
In Situ Gas–Solid Reaction and Oxidation Resistance of Silicon Carbide Coating on Carbon Fibers
Authors: Dong Shuilang , Li Baowei , Hou Feng , Jiao Jian , Yang Jinhua , Wang Shiling , Ren Ruiming
Published: March 2016

Silicon carbide (SiC) coating on carbon fibers was realized based on in situ low‐temperature gas–solid reaction processing in which carbon reacted with Si vapor at the temperature of 1200°C–1300°C. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis showed that the SiC coating was uniform and crystallized by beta‐SiC. The oxidation resistant properties of the SiC‐coated carbon fibers were significantly improved according to isothermal oxidation measurement. The initial oxidation temperature of the SiC‐coated carbon fibers was about 200°C higher than that of the raw carbon fibers. The SiC‐coating carbon fibers treated at 1250°C possessed higher antioxidant property than the one treated at 1300°C.
Ce3+‐ and Dy3+‐Doped Oxyfluoride Borosilicate Glasses with Near White Luminescence
Authors: Wu Dongqun , Zhu Chaofeng , Zhang Meimei
Published: March 2016

A series of Ce3+/Dy3+‐doped oxyfluoride borosilicate glasses prepared by melt‐quenching method are investigated for light‐emitting diodes applications. These glasses are studied via X‐ray diffraction (XRD), optical absorption, photoluminescence (PL), color coordinate, and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectra. We find that the absorption and emission bands of Ce3+ ions move to the longer wavelengths with increasing Ce3+ concentrations and decreasing B2O3 and Al2O3 contents in the glass compositions. We also discover the emission behavior of Ce3+ ions is dependent on the excitation wavelengths. The glass structure variations with changing glass compositions are examined using the FT‐IR spectra. The influence of glass network structure on the luminescence of Ce3+/Dy3+ codoped glasses is studied. Furthermore, the near‐ideal white light emission (color coordinate x = 0.32, y = 0.32) from the Ce3+/Dy3+ codoped glasses excited at 350 nm UV light is realized.
Deformation Control During Thermal Treatment of Electrospun PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 Nanofiber Mats
Authors: Rozent Ofer , Beilin Vadim V. , Shter Gennady E. , Grader Gideon S.
Published: March 2016

This paper focuses on the deformation origin of PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 (PZT) fiber mats obtained by electrospinning. The main cause of deformation of the green mats during heating was found to be a nonuniform relaxation of the stretched PVP polymer, due to nonuniform thermal decomposition of the Pb‐hexanoate in the fibers. This relaxation starts under 100°C, well below the polymer decomposition temperature. The shrinkage was found to accelerate above the polymer glass transition point, giving rise to an overall linear change of almost 50%. The “green” PZT mats were easily separated from the collector by first depositing a pure PVP sublayer on the collector. An optimal fabrication and slow multistep thermal treatment process that provides fiber mats with desired PZT phase and overcomes the nonuniform deformation is described.