bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does reduced‐port laparoscopic surgery for medically uncontrolled ulcerative colitis do more harm than good?
Authors: Homma Shigenori , Kawamata Futoshi , Shibasaki Susumu , Kawamura Hideki , Takahashi Norihiko , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Reduced‐port laparoscopic surgery is a novel minimally invasive surgery. However, reduced‐port surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC) remains controversial. Here, we describe the clinical outcomes of single‐incision plus one port laparoscopic surgery (SILS + 1) for medically uncontrolled UC.

Methods

Between May 2011 and September 2014, 10 UC patients underwent SILS + 1 port surgery. All procedures were performed with the use of a SILS port and either a 5‐mm or a 12‐mm port placed at the planned ileostomy site.

Results

The median age of patients was 32 years (range, 22–53 years). Six patients underwent two‐stage SILS + 1 port restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis, two patients underwent SILS + 1 total proctocolectomy, and the remaining two patients underwent SILS + 1 subtotal colectomy with subsequent three‐stage SILS + 1 ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis. The median operative time was 363.1 min (range, 253–465 min) and the median estimated blood loss was 29 mL (range, 0–100 mL). There were no conversions or additional ports required. Two patients previously underwent SILS + 1 subtotal colectomy, and in one of those patients, SILS + 1 ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis was performed successfully 6 months after the previous surgery. There were no intra‐abdominal adhesions, and no extra wounds were necessary because the previous stoma site had been used to access the SILS port. The median postoperative period was 24 months, during which five patients had their ileostomies closed. No patients reported occasional minor daily soiling or the need to wear a pad.

Conclusion

Reduced‐port laparoscopic surgery for medically uncontrolled UC is a feasible and safe procedure when performed by skilled surgeons.
False Discovery Rate Estimation for Large-Scale Homogeneous Discretep-Values
Authors: Liang Kun
Published: October 2015

Large-scale homogeneous discrete p-values are encountered frequently in high-throughput genomics studies, and the related multiple testing problems become challenging because most existing methods for the false discovery rate (FDR) assume continuous p-values. In this article, we study the estimation of the null proportion and FDR for discrete p-values with common support. In the finite sample setting, we propose a novel class of conservative FDR estimators. Furthermore, we show that a broad class of FDR estimators is simultaneously conservative over all support points under some weak dependence condition in the asymptotic setting. We further demonstrate the significant improvement of a newly proposed method over existing methods through simulation studies and a case study.
Answering Developmental Questions Using Secondary Data
Authors: Davis‐Kean Pamela E. , Jager Justin , Maslowsky Julie
Published: October 2015

Secondary data analysis of large longitudinal and national data sets is a standard method used in many social sciences to answer complex questions regarding behavior. In this article, we detail the advantages of using these data sets to study developmental questions across the life span. First, we provide an overview of how using secondary data can increase studies' scientific integrity. Then, we detail where and how data sets can be obtained that answer specific questions. Finally, we discuss methodological issues related to using longitudinal, population data sets. These data sets can enhance science and test theories by increasing the rigor and generalizability of research to the general population, making secondary data analysis an important method to consider.
Psychosocial predictors of weight loss by race and sex
Authors: Jerome G. J. , Myers V. H. , Young D. R. , Matthews‐Ewald M. R. , Coughlin J. W. , Wingo B. C. , Ard J. D. , Champagne C. M. , Funk K. L. , Stevens V. J. , Brantley P. J.
Published: October 2015

This paper examined the psychosocial predictors of weight loss among race and sex subgroups. Analyses included overweight and obese participants from the PREMIER study, a previously published randomized trial that examined the effects of two multi‐component lifestyle interventions on blood pressure among pre‐hypertensive and stage 1 hypertensive adults. Both intervention conditions received behavioural recommendations for weight loss and group sessions. Weight and psychosocial measures of self‐efficacy and social support for diet and exercise were assessed at baseline and at 6 months. There were 157 African–American (AA) women, 46 AA men, 203 non‐AA women and 182 non‐AA men with an average age of 50 years and average body mass index of 34 at baseline. Multiple predictor regression models were performed individually by race and sex subgroup. Among AA women, increases in diet self‐efficacy were associated with weight loss. Among AA men, increases in diet‐related social support and self‐efficacy, along with increases in family support to exercise, were associated with weight loss (all Ps <0.05). Among non‐AA women, increases in friends' support to exercise and exercise‐related self‐efficacy were associated with weight loss, and among non‐AA men only increases in diet self‐efficacy were associated with weight loss (all Ps <0.05). These results emphasize the need for targeted interventions based on race and sex to optimize the impact of lifestyle‐based weight loss programmes.
Contact dermatitis in patients undergoing serial intravitreal injections
Authors: Veramme Jolien , de Zaeytijd Julie , Lambert Jo , Lapeere Hilde
Published: October 2015

Background

Anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medication, injected intravitreally, is currently the standard of care in patients with different retinal pathologies. Since its introduction in 2006, an increasing number of patients have undergone this procedure in Ghent University Hospital. Strikingly, more patients were diagnosed with contact dermatitis caused by ophthalmic products used during intravitreal injection procedure.

Objectives

To identify which of the substances used during intravitreal injection is most likely to cause contact dermatitis.

Patients/materials/methods

Sixteen patients who developed a burning and stinging sensation and swelling of the eyelids after intravitreal injection were tested. All patients were patch tested with the Belgian baseline series, as well as a cosmetic, a pharmaceutical and an ophthalmic series, including the different eye drops used during the intravitreal injection procedure.

Results

Fourteen of 16 patients reacted to at least one of the substances used during the injection procedure. Nine patients reacted to phenylephrine (56%), 5 to iso‐Betadine® ophthalmic solution (31%), and 3 patients to sodium metabisulfite (16%).

Conclusions

The most common causal allergen was phenylephrine, being positive in 56% of patients. Patients most likely become sensitized because of the high frequency of usage of phenylephrine during repeated intravitreal injections and follow‐up consultations.
Corporate Governance Codes: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Cuomo Francesca , Mallin Christine , Zattoni Alessandro
Published: October 2015

Manuscript Type

Review

Research Question/Issue

This study reviews previous country‐level and firm‐level studies on corporate governance codes up to 2014 in order to highlight recent trends and indicate future avenues of research.

Research Findings/Results

Our data show that research on codes increases over time consistently with the diffusion and the relevance of the empirical phenomenon. Despite previous studies substantially enriching our knowledge of the antecedents and consequences of governance codes, our study shows there are still several opportunities to make significant contributions in this area.

Theoretical Implications

Agency theory is the dominant theoretical framework, although other theoretical perspectives (especially the institutional one) are increasingly adopted. Future studies should be aimed at widening and combining various theoretical lenses so as to develop new interpretations and a better understanding of governance codes.

Practical Implications

Legislators and policymakers should continue to develop and update the recommendations of national governance codes in order to address the potential failures of corporate governance mechanisms in place.
Seven‐site versus three‐site method of body composition using BodyMetrix ultrasound compared to dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry
Authors: Baranauskas Marissa N. , Johnson Kelly E. , Juvancic‐Heltzel Judith A. , Kappler Rachele M. , Richardson Laura , Jamieson Scott , Otterstetter Ronald
Published: October 2015

Obesity is a steadily growing epidemic affecting all segments of the population including college‐aged students. The weight gain that is evidenced amid the transitional stage of college years increases the risks associated with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The BodyMetrix® BX‐2000 (ULTRA) using a seven‐site method has been evaluated against dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) for estimation of body composition, which has yielded conflicting results. To date, no studies have compared the three‐site method Jackson and Pollock three‐site method to DXA.

Purpose

The purpose of the study was twofold (i) to compare agreement between Jackson–Pollock seven site (JP7), Jackson–Pollock three site (JP3) and Pollock three site (P3) to predict body fat (%BF) using ULTRA and (ii) and to compare the three ULTRA methodologies against DXA.

Methods

Seventy‐six healthy college‐aged subjects (ages = 22·08 ± 2·50 years) participated in this study. DXA and ULTRA body composition assessments were performed following manufacturer's instructions to estimate %BF. Paired sample t‐tests were used to assess agreement between JP7, P3 and JP3. Additionally, a two‐tailed sample t‐test was performed by sex. ULTRA and DXA results were also performed for agreement and bivariate correlation.

Results

No significant differences between JP7 and P3, P = 0·38, were observed. In males, no significant differences were observed between JP7 and P3, P = 0·18. Significant differences were observed in all other pairs, P≤0·001 and between ULTRA and DXA.

Conclusions

The Pollock 3‐site method estimates body fat percentage with comparable accuracy to JP7 using ULTRA.
Efficacy and acceptability of very low energy diets in overweight and obese people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review with meta‐analyses
Authors: Rehackova L. , Arnott B. , Araujo‐Soares V. , Adamson A. A. , Taylor R. , Sniehotta F. F.
Published: October 2015

Aims

To explore the efficacy and acceptability of very low energy diets in overweight or obese adults with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Controlled trials and qualitative studies of individuals with Type 2 diabetes that compared very low energy diets with standard care, minimal interventions, other weight loss interventions, less intensive very low energy diet interventions and very low energy diets with additional components were eligible for inclusion. Meta‐analyses of changes in weight, blood glucose levels and attrition rates were performed. Acceptability of very low energy diets was assessed by attrition rates, number and severity of side effects, and by qualitative evaluations of the interventions.

Results

Four randomized, five non‐randomized controlled trials and no qualitative studies (21 references, 9 studies, 346 participants) were identified. Meta‐analyses showed that very low energy diets induced greater weight losses than minimal interventions, standard care or low energy diets at 3 and 6 months. No conclusive evidence for differences in outcomes between very low energy diets and Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery was found. Greater differences in energy prescription between intervention and comparator arms were associated with greater differences in weight loss and fasting blood glucose levels at 3 months. Attrition rates did not differ between the very low energy diets and the comparator arms at any measurement point.

Conclusions

Very low energy diets are effective in substantial weight loss among people with Type 2 diabetes. Levels of adherence to very low energy diets in controlled studies appear to be high, although details about behaviour support provided are usually poorly described.
A neurophylogenetic approach provides new insight to the evolution of Scaphopoda
Authors: Sumner‐Rooney Lauren H. , Schrödl Michael , Lodde‐Bensch Eva , Lindberg David R. , Heß Martin , Brennan Gerard P. , Sigwart Julia D.
Published: October 2015

The position of scaphopods in molluscan phylogeny remains singularly contentious, with several sister relationships supported by morphological and phylogenomic data: Scaphopoda + Bivalvia (Diasoma), Scaphopoda + Cephalopoda (Variopoda), and Scaphopoda + Gastropoda. Nervous system architecture has contributed significant insights to reconstructing phylogeny in the Mollusca and other invertebrate groups, but a modern neurophylogenetic approach has not been applied to molluscs, hampered by a lack of clearly defined homologous characters that can be unequivocally compared across the radical body plan disparity among the living clades. We present the first three‐dimensional reconstruction of the anterior nervous system of a scaphopod,Rhabdus rectius, using histological tomography. We also describe a new putative sensory organ, a paired and pigmented sensory mantle slit. This structure is restricted to our study species and not a general feature of scaphopods, but it forms an integral part of the description of the nervous system inR. rectius. It also highlights the potential utility of neuro‐anatomical characters for multiple levels of phylogenetic inference beyond this study. This potential has not previously been exploited for the thorny problem of molluscan phylogeny. The neuroanatomy of scaphopods demonstrates a highly derived architecture that shares a number of key characters with the cephalopod nervous system, and supports a Scaphopoda + Cephalopoda grouping.
Influence of wearing a scuba diving mouthpiece on the stomatognathic system – considerations for mouthpiece design
Authors: Hirose Toshiaki , Ono Takahiro , Maeda Yoshinobu
Published: October 2015

Although diver's mouth syndrome (DMS) has long been recognized by scuba divers, little attention has been paid to the influence of wearing a scuba diving mouthpiece on the stomatognathic system. In this review, DMS‐related stomatognathic events (DMS‐SE) while wearing a mouthpiece, the relationship between components of the mouthpiece and those events, and design considerations to reduce the risk of those events are discussed based on evidence from 32 articles concerning scuba diving mouthpieces. Forward movement of the mandible, loss of molar occlusal support, and continuous jaw clenching while wearing a mouthpiece are considered to be pathogenic for DMS‐SE. Several experimental studies have suggested a relationship between incidence of those events and the design of mouthpiece components such as the connector, labial flange, platform, and occlusal rug, and the possibility of reducing risk of those events through design customization of these components. Improvement of the shape of commercially available mouthpieces and creation of custom‐made mouthpieces may thus contribute to the prevention and treatment of DMS‐SE and the provision of a comfortable diving environment.
Adolescents with or at ultra‐high risk for bipolar disorder exhibit erythrocyte docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid deficits: a candidate prodromal risk biomarker
Authors: McNamara Robert K. , Jandacek Ronald , Tso Patrick , Blom Thomas J. , Welge Jeffrey A. , Strawn Jeffrey R. , Adler Caleb M. , Strakowski Stephen M. , DelBello Melissa P.
Published: October 2015

Aim

Mood disorders are associated with low levels of the long‐chain omega‐3 (LCn‐3) fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This study investigated LCn‐3 fatty acid biostatus in youth with or at varying risk for developing mania to assess its utility as a prodromal risk biomarker.

Method

Erythrocyte fatty acid composition was determined in healthy adolescents (n = 28, HC), asymptomatic adolescents with a biological parent with bipolar I disorder (n = 30; ‘high risk’, HR), adolescents with a biological parent with bipolar I disorder and major depressive disorder, or depressive disorder not otherwise specified (n = 36; ‘ultra‐high risk’, UHR), and first‐episode adolescent bipolar manic patients (n = 35, BP).

Results

Group differences were observed for DHA (P ≤ 0.0001) and EPA (P = 0.03). Compared with HC, erythrocyte EPA + DHA (‘omega‐3 index’) was significantly lower in BP (−24%, P ≤ 0.0001) and UHR (−19%, P = 0.0006) groups, and there was a trend in the HR group (−11%, P = 0.06). Compared with HC (61%), a greater percentage of HR (77%, P = 0.02), UHR (80%, P = 0.005) and BP (97%, P = 0.001) subjects exhibited EPA + DHA levels of ≤4.0%. Among all subjects (n = 130), EPA + DHA was inversely correlated with manic (r = −0.29, P = 0.0008) and depressive (r = −0.28, P = 0.003) symptom severity. The AA/EPA + DHA ratio was significantly greater in BP (+22%, P = 0.0002) and UHR (+16%, P = 0.001) groups.

Conclusions

Low EPA + DHA levels coincide with the initial onset of mania, and increasing risk for developing bipolar disorder is associated with graded erythrocyte EPA + DHA deficits. Low erythrocyte EPA + DHA biostatus may represent a promising prodromal risk biomarker warranting additional evaluation in future prospective studies.
Early exposure to parental bipolar disorder and risk of mood disorder: the Flourish Canadian prospective offspring cohort study
Authors: Goodday Sarah , Levy Adrian , Flowerdew Gordon , Horrocks Julie , Grof Paul , Ellenbogen Mark , Duffy Anne
Published: October 2015

Aim

Exposure to postnatal parental depression is associated with offspring mood disorder later in life; however, little is known about exposure to parental bipolar disorder (BD) and subsequent risk of psychopathology. The aim of this study was to determine the association between the duration, severity and timing of exposure to parental BD in early childhood and subsequent risk of mood disorder.

Methods

189 offspring of a parent with BD completed annual assessments following Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders (KSADS) format semistructured interviews as part of an ongoing 16‐year prospective cohort study. Clinical data from the affected parents were collected over the first decade of their offspring's life using SADS‐L format semistructured interviews and coded using the Affective Morbidity Index (AMI).

Results

A longer duration of exposure to parental BD was associated with a 1.5‐fold risk of any psychopathology (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–2.3) and a 2.5‐fold increased risk of substance use disorders (95% CI: 1.2–5.3). Exposure during the first 2 years of life was significantly associated with the risk of mood disorder (hazard ratio (HR): 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0–1.2), whereas exposure later in childhood was not.

Conclusions

The duration of exposure to active parental BD in childhood is an important risk factor for the subsequent development of mood and non‐mood psychopathology risk in offspring. These findings emphasize the importance of effective treatment of parents with BD to help both themselves and their children, especially early in development.
The Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg model of absence epilepsy exhibits alterations in fear conditioning and latent inhibition consistent with psychiatric comorbidities in humans
Authors: Marks Wendie N. , Cavanagh Mary E. , Greba Quentin , Cain Stuart M. , Snutch Terrance P. , Howland John G.
Published: October 2015

Behavioural, neurological, and genetic similarities exist in epilepsies, their psychiatric comorbidities, and various psychiatric illnesses, suggesting common aetiological factors. Rodent models of epilepsy are used to characterize the comorbid symptoms apparent in epilepsy and their neurobiological mechanisms. The present study was designed to assess Pavlovian fear conditioning and latent inhibition in a polygenetic rat model of absence epilepsy, i.e. Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS) and the non‐epileptic control (NEC) strain. Electrophysiological recordings confirmed the presence of spike‐wave discharges in young adult GAERS but not NEC rats. A series of behavioural tests designed to assess anxiety‐like behaviour (elevated plus maze, open field, acoustic startle response) and cognition (Pavlovian conditioning and latent inhibition) was subsequently conducted on male and female offspring. Results showed that GAERS exhibited significantly higher anxiety‐like behaviour, a characteristic reported previously. In addition, using two protocols that differed in shock intensity, we found that both sexes of GAERS displayed exaggerated cued and contextual Pavlovian fear conditioning and impaired fear extinction. Fear reinstatement to the conditioned stimuli following unsignalled footshocks did not differ between the strains. Male GAERS also showed impaired latent inhibition in a paradigm using Pavlovian fear conditioning, suggesting that they may have altered attention, particularly related to previously irrelevant stimuli in the environment. Neither the female GAERS nor NEC rats showed evidence of latent inhibition in our paradigm. Together, the results suggest that GAERS may be a particularly useful model for assessing therapeutics designed to improve the emotional and cognitive disturbances associated with absence epilepsy.
Circadian PER2::LUC rhythms in the olfactory bulb of freely moving mice depend on the suprachiasmatic nucleus but not on behaviour rhythms
Authors: Ono Daisuke , Honma Sato , Honma Ken‐ichi
Published: October 2015

The temporal order of physiology and behaviour in mammals is regulated by the coordination of the master circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and peripheral clocks in various tissues outside the SCN. Because the circadian oscillator(s) in the olfactory bulb (OB) is regarded as SCN independent, we examined the relationship between the SCN master clock and the circadian clock in the OB. We also examined the role of vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 2 in the circadian organization of the OB. We continuously monitored the circadian rhythms of a clock gene product PER2 in the SCN and OB of freely moving mice by means of a bioluminescence reporter and an optical fibre implanted in the brain. Robust circadian rhythms were detected in the OB and SCN for up to 19 days. Bilateral SCN lesions abolished the circadian behaviour rhythms and disorganized the PER2 rhythms in the OB. The PER2 rhythms in the OB showed more than one oscillatory component of a similar circadian period, suggesting internal desynchronization of constituent oscillators. By contrast, significant circadian PER2 rhythms were detected in the vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 2‐deficient mice, despite the substantial deterioration or abolition of circadian behavioural rhythms. These findings indicate that the circadian clock in the OB of freely moving mice depends on the SCN master clock but not on the circadian behavioural rhythms. The circadian PER2::LUC rhythm in the cultured OB was as robust as that in the cultured SCN but reset by slice preparation, suggesting that culturing of the slice reinforces the circadian rhythm.
Global assessment of the severity of epilepsy (GASE) Scale in children: Validity, reliability, responsiveness
Authors: Chan Cindy Jauhrur , Zou Guangyong , Wiebe Samuel , Speechley Kathy Nixon
Published: October 2015

Objective

The Global Assessment of Severity of Epilepsy (GASE) Scale is a single‐item, 7‐point global rating scale designed for neurologist‐report of overall severity of epilepsy in children. Building on previous preliminary evidence of its validity and reliability for research and clinical use, this study evaluated the GASE Scale's construct validity, reliability, and responsiveness to changes in severity of epilepsy.

Methods

Data used for the study arose from the Health‐Related Quality of Life in Children with Epilepsy Study (HERQULES), a 2‐year multicenter prospective cohort study (n = 374) with observations taken at baseline, and 6, 12, and 24 months after diagnosis. Construct validity and reliability were quantified using Spearman's correlation and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Responsiveness was assessed using both distribution‐based and anchor‐based indices.

Results

The GASE Scale was at least moderately correlated (r ≥ 0.30) with several key clinical aspects and most strongly correlated with frequency and intensity of seizures and interference of epilepsy or drugs with daily activities (r > 0.30). Total variation in GASE Scale scores explained by seven core clinical aspects of epilepsy increased over time (R2 = 28% at baseline to R2 = 70% at 24 months). The GASE Scale had modest test–retest reliability (ICC range: 0.52–0.64) and was responsive to changes in clinical criteria (standardized response mean range: 0.49–0.68; probability of change range: 0.69–0.75; Guyatt's responsiveness statistic range: 0.56–0.84). The GASE Scale showed potential to discriminate “stable” and “changed” patients according to select criteria and to a composite score (area under the receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve range: 0.50–0.67).

Significance

Results offer additional evidence in support of the GASE Scale's validity, reliability, as well as responsiveness to changes in severity of epilepsy in children. We conclude that the GASE Scale is a potentially useful tool for assessing the severity of epilepsy in both clinical and research settings.
Warming accelerates termination of a phytoplankton spring bloom by fungal parasites
Authors: Frenken Thijs , Velthuis Mandy , de Senerpont Domis Lisette N. , Stephan Susanne , Aben Ralf , Kosten Sarian , van Donk Ellen , Van de Waal Dedmer B.
Published: October 2015

Climate change is expected to favour infectious diseases across ecosystems worldwide. In freshwater and marine environments, parasites play a crucial role in controlling plankton population dynamics. Infection of phytoplankton populations will cause a transfer of carbon and nutrients into parasites, which may change the type of food available for higher trophic levels. Some phytoplankton species are inedible to zooplankton, and the termination of their population by parasites may liberate otherwise unavailable carbon and nutrients. Phytoplankton spring blooms often consist of large diatoms inedible for zooplankton, but the zoospores of their fungal parasites may serve as a food source for this higher trophic level. Here, we investigated the impact of warming on the fungal infection of a natural phytoplankton spring bloom and followed the response of a zooplankton community. Experiments were performed in ca. 1000 L indoor mesocosms exposed to a controlled seasonal temperature cycle and a warm (+4 °C) treatment in the period from March to June 2014. The spring bloom was dominated by the diatom Synedra. At the peak of infection over 40% of the Synedra population was infected by a fungal parasite (i.e. a chytrid) in both treatments. Warming did not affect the onset of the Synedra bloom, but accelerated its termination. Peak population density of Synedra tended to be lower in the warm treatments. Furthermore, Synedra carbon: phosphorus stoichiometry increased during the bloom, particularly in the control treatments. This indicates enhanced phosphorus limitation in the control treatments, which may have constrained chytrid development. Timing of the rotifer Keratella advanced in the warm treatments and closely followed chytrid infections. The chytrids' zoospores may thus have served as an alternative food source to Keratella. Our study thus emphasizes the importance of incorporating not only nutrient limitation and grazing, but also parasitism in understanding the response of plankton communities towards global warming.
Age But Not Sex Is Associated With Efficacy and Adverse Events Following Administration of Intravenous Migraine Medication: An Analysis of a Clinical Trial Database
Authors: Friedman Benjamin W. , Cisewski David H. , Holden Lynne , Bijur Polly E. , Gallagher E. John
Published: October 2015

Background

Migraine prevalence is associated with both sex and age. Differences in efficacy of parenteral migraine medication administration based on the sex and age of the patient have not been explored in the published literature.

Objective

The objective was to determine whether sex and age are associated with short‐term headache relief, sustained headache freedom, or adverse medication effects in data collected during 3 emergency department (ED)‐based acute migraine comparative efficacy trials.

Methods

Data were combined from 3 studies in which patients who presented to an ED with acute migraine were randomized to one of the following intravenous medication regimens: (1) metoclopramide combined with diphenhydramine; (2) metoclopramide combined with diphenhydramine and dexamethasone; (3) metoclopramide alone; (4) ketorolac; or (5) valproate. In each of these studies, (1) short‐term efficacy (patient description of the headache as “mild” or “none” 1 hour after medication administration); (2) sustained efficacy (patient description of the headache as “none” within 2 hours of medication administration and no headache recurrence for 24 hours post ED discharge); and (3) the frequency of any adverse medication effects within 24 hours of medication administration was determined. For each of the medication regimens studied, efficacy and adverse event rates were compared between men vs women and the older vs the younger half of patients. Multivariate logistic regression models were constructed in which sex and age were maintained in the model as well as variables representing each of the medication regimens patients received.

Results

A total of 884 patients were included in this analysis (140 men and 744 women). The median age was 35 years. After controlling for age and medication received, female sex was not associated with short‐term efficacy (OR 0.98 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.66, 1.46]), sustained efficacy (OR 0.72 [95%CI: 0.45, 1.15]), or adverse events (OR 1.14 [95%CI: 0.77, 1.71]). Age >36 years, however, was associated with short‐term efficacy (OR 0.66 [95%CI: 0.49, 0.88]), sustained efficacy (OR 0.50 [95%CI: 0.34, 0.73]), and adverse events (OR 1.36 [95%CI: 1.02, 1.82]).

Conclusion

Sex was not associated with response to parenteral acute migraine medication. Age was associated with both efficacy and adverse events.
Protecting liver sinusoidal endothelial cells suppresses apoptosis in acute liver damage
Authors: Tanoi Tomohito , Tamura Takafumi , Sano Naoki , Nakayama Ken , Fukunaga Kiyoshi , Zheng Yun‐Wen , Akhter Afsana , Sakurai Yu , Hayashi Yasuhiro , Harashima Hideyoshi , Ohkohchi Nobuhiro
Published: October 2015

Aim

Apoptosis is associated with various types of hepatic disorders. We have developed a novel cell‐transfer drug delivery system (DDS) using a multifunctional envelope‐type nano device that targets liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of the novel DDS containing siRNA at suppressing apoptosis in LSECs.

Methods

Bax siRNA was transfected into a sinusoidal endothelial cell line (M1) to suppress apoptosis induced by an anti‐Fas antibody and staurosporine. C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: (i) a control group, only intravenous saline; (ii) a nonselective group, injections of siRNA sealed in the nonselective DDS; and (iii) an LSEC‐transfer efficient group, injections of siRNA sealed in an LSEC‐transfer efficient DDS. Hepatic cell apoptosis was induced by an anti‐Fas antibody.

Results

Bax siRNA had an anti‐apoptotic effect on M1 cells. Serum alanine aminotransferase was reduced in the LSEC‐transfer efficient group, as were cleaved caspase‐3 and the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling positive hepatocytes. Silver impregnation staining indicated that the sinusoidal space was maintained in the LSEC‐transfer efficient group but not in the other groups. Electron microscopy showed that the LSECs were slightly impaired, although the sinusoidal structure was maintained in the LSEC‐transfer efficient group.

Conclusion

Hepatocyte apoptosis was reduced by the efficient suppression of LSEC apoptosis with a novel DDS. Protecting the sinusoidal structure by suppressing LSEC damage will be an effective treatment for acute liver failure.
Medieval History from the Margins
Authors: Lee Rosemary
Published: October 2015

Around 1000 CE, minorities like Jews, heretics, and Muslims, the physically and mentally ill, and gay men began experiencing increased persecution in medieval Europe. This pedagogy‐focused article on a thematic medieval history course surveys major works on persecution, sexual identity, gender identity, religious violence, and deviance. A brief discussion on implementing the course at two colleges will reveal how instructors can adapt a course on persecution and medieval interfaith relations to diverse learners and institutional climates.
Teaching and Learning Guide: Outsiders in Medieval Europe
Authors: Lee Rosemary
Published: October 2015

Religious persecution is synonymous with the popular image of the Middle Ages. “Outsiders in Medieval Europe” is a pedagogy‐focused article on a medieval history course for undergraduates that studies persecution. The course, which explores marginalized peoples and groups in the Middle Ages, focuses on medieval interfaith relations and the history of sexuality. Students will study medieval anti‐Semitism and medieval Jews, explore Christian interactions with Islam before and after the crusades, and examine John Boswell's argument about Christian attitudes towards homosexuality. Students will conclude the course by studying female mysticism and attitudes towards illness. The article includes a sample syllabus.
“An Indelible Mark”: Gay Purges in Higher Education in the 1940s
Authors: Nash Margaret A. , Silverman Jennifer A. R.
Published: October 2015

In June 1948, Wisconsin Superior Court Judge Roy H. Proctor sentenced four University of Wisconsin students to one year probation for “participating in abnormal sexual activities.” The four students were among a group of twelve men on and off campus who had been arrested by city and university police. Their sentence was mild, given that the judge could have put them in prison for up to five years. Judge Proctor warned them that if there was a second offense, they should not expect leniency. “Each and all of you should feel deeply ashamed,” Proctor told them; “your conduct has caused an indelible mark to be placed against you. Certainly you will have to watch your step in the future, not only to avoid becoming second offenders, but to allay all suspicions of your becoming involved again.” Indeed, when one of the young men tried to move on with his life, university administrators made sure that the “indelible mark” followed him.
The Consequences of Competition: Federal Boarding Schools, Competing Institutions, Pueblo Communities, and the Fight to Control the Flow of Pueblo Students, 1881–1928
Authors: Gram John Reynolds
Published: October 2015

Samuel M. Cart, superintendent of the recently opened federal boarding school in Santa Fe, New Mexico, sat down at his desk in September 1891 to write the commissioner of Indian affairs regarding his recent recruiting tour through the pueblos under his jurisdiction. The recruiting trip was in preparation for the first full school year of Santa Fe Indian School's (SFIS's) existence. Though Cart had only recently arrived, his would-be pupils belonged to communities who had lived in the region for over millennia. The Pueblos among whom Cart had just traveled had established successful agricultural committees in the arid region and developed complex social and cultural means to order and influence the world that Cart's countryman now called the American Southwest. And for generations, they had educated their children in order that their communities would survive. Now Cart, and men and women like him, had traveled to the Southwest to convince the Pueblos (and other Native American groups) that their way of life was inferior, their social–cultural complex was immoral, and their methods for educating their children were insufficient.
Effects of overweight and obesity on motor and mental development in infants and toddlers
Authors: Cataldo R. , Huang J. , Calixte R. , Wong A. T. , Bianchi‐Hayes J. , Pati S.
Published: October 2015

Background

A consequence of childhood obesity may be poor developmental outcomes.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the relationship between weight and developmental delays in young children.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study Birth Cohort data. Logistic regression models quantified the association between different weight statuses (normal weight <85th, overweight ≥90th, obese ≥95th percentile for weight) and delays in motor and mental development.

Results

Children classified as overweight in both waves had higher percentages of delays in wave 2 (motor [7.5 vs. 6.2–6.4%], mental [8.6 vs. 5.9–6.7%]), as well as wave 1 and/or wave 2 (motor [14.8 vs. 10.9–13.0%], mental [11.9 vs. 9.0–10.1%]), compared with other children. This association was also found in children who were obese at both time points in wave 2 (motor delay [8.9 vs. 4.9–7.3%], mental delay [10.3 vs. 6.0–7.2%]), as well as wave 1 and/or wave 2 (motor delay [14.5 vs. 10.9–12.9%], mental delay [14.1 vs. 9.4–10.1%]). In the adjusted models, children classified as always obese were more likely to have a mental delay in wave 2 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.89, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21–2.95) as well as wave 1 and/or wave 2 (aOR 1.56, 95% CI: 1.08–2.26). These children were also more likely to have motor delay (aOR 1.47, 95% CI: 1.02–2.13) in wave 1 and/or wave 2.

Conclusion

Overweight children are more likely than their normal‐weight peers to have motor and mental developmental delays. Preventing obesity during infancy may facilitate reducing developmental delays in young children.
The fear of failure: Youth employment problems in China
Authors: SCHUCHER Günter
Published: October 2015

Media reports about the employment situation of China's youth have been somewhat contradictory. Low unemployment rates coexist with heightened concern over this issue among China's leadership and population. The author addresses that contradiction by investigating the employment situation of young people in China and demonstrating that they complain about inadequate employment rather than about unemployment per se. In particular, tertiary education graduates, who represent approximately half of all the young people entering the Chinese labour market every year, are concerned about unsatisfying job opportunities, lower‐than‐expected starting salaries, and declining chances for upward mobility.
Parental effects and the evolution of phenotypic memory
Authors: Kuijper B. , Johnstone R. A.
Published: October 2015

Despite growing evidence for nongenetic inheritance, the ecological conditions that favour the evolution of heritable parental or grandparental effects remain poorly understood. Here, we systematically explore the evolution of parental effects in a patch‐structured population with locally changing environments. When selection favours the production of a mix of offspring types, this mix differs according to the parental phenotype, implying that parental effects are favoured over selection for bet‐hedging in which the mixture of offspring phenotypes produced does not depend on the parental phenotype. Positive parental effects (generating a positive correlation between parental and offspring phenotype) are favoured in relatively stable habitats and when different types of local environment are roughly equally abundant, and can give rise to long‐term parental inheritance of phenotypes. By contrast, unstable habitats can favour negative parental effects (generating a negative correlation between parental and offspring phenotype), and under these circumstances, even slight asymmetries in the abundance of local environmental states select for marked asymmetries in transmission fidelity.
The Effects of Cephalaria Syriaca Flour on the Quality of Sunn Pest (Eurygaster Integriceps)‐Damaged Wheat
Authors: Başar Şule , Karaoğlu M. Murat , Boz Hüseyin
Published: October 2015

The effects of Cephalaria syriaca flour on the quality of sunn pest‐damaged wheat were investigated. Sunn pest‐damaged wheat was blended into sound wheat at different levels (5, 10 and 15%). C. syriaca flour was then added at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% levels. The rheological properties of sunn pest‐damaged wheat flour with added C. syriaca flour were considerably improved, in particular with regard to farinograph characteristics (dough stability, mixing tolerance index [MTI] and degree of softening [DS]) and instrumental textural properties (area and maximum resistance) compared to control. The dough stability value increased significantly (P < 0.01) as C. syriaca flour level increased for all sunn pest‐damaged wheat levels. The addition of sunn pest‐damaged wheat at 15% level greatly increased the MTI and DS values of dough (202.5 and 282.5 BU); however, the addition of 1.5% C. syriaca to this blend significantly decreased these values (87 and 94.5 BU; P < 0.01).

Practical Applications

A large number of optional ingredients are included in bread formulation to improve its bread‐making quality. Cephalaria syriaca is traditionally used to improve the rheological properties of dough by farmers living in some part of Turkey. The addition of C. syriaca flour to sunn pest‐damaged wheat significantly affected the physical, technological and rheological properties of the sunn pest‐damaged wheat flour and dough and improved the bread‐making quality. Thus, the deteriorated dough‐kneading properties induced by sunn pest‐damaged wheat can be slightly improved by C. syriaca flour supplementation.
Effect of Statin Therapy on Fibrous Cap Thickness in Coronary Plaques Using Optical Coherence Tomography: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zheng Guian , Chen Jiandong , Lin Chunyi , Huang Xiaohong , Lin Jinxiu
Published: October 2015

Objectives

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the effect of statin therapy on coronary fibrous cap thickness (FCT) as assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and the relationship between FCT and traditional coronary risk factors.

Background

Increasing evidence has shown that statin therapy results in a marked increase in coronary FCT. However, the relationship between this increase in FCT and the lipid profile has not been clearly elucidated.

Methods

A literature search of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to March 17, 2015 was performed. Studies providing data on FCT using OCT at baseline and follow‐up in patients receiving statin therapy were included. Weighted mean difference (WMD) with a random‐effects model was used.

Results

Six OCT studies were included. The FCT in coronary plaques was significantly increased after statin therapy (WMD: 58.79 μm, 95% CI 33.82–83.76 μm, P < 0.001). When compared with the placebo group, the increase in FCT was also greater in the statin group (WMD: 72.28 μm, 95% CI 44.97–99.58 μm, P < 0.001). Meta regression analysis demonstrated no significant correlations between the increase in FTC and the changes in total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels during follow‐up. Similarly, there were no significant correlations between the increase in FCT and age, male gender, hypertension, diabetes, and smoking.

Conclusions

Statin therapy induced a significant increase in coronary FCT evaluated by OCT. This increase in FCT was independent of traditional coronary risk factors including the lipid profile. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:514–522)
Evaluation of Surface Roughness of Ceramic and Resin Composite Material Used for Conservative Indirect Restorations, after Repolishing by Intraoral Means
Authors: Vrochari Areti D. , Petropoulou Aikaterini , Chronopoulos Vasilios , Polydorou Olga , Massey Ward , Hellwig Elmar
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the mean surface roughness (Ra) of one ceramic and one resin composite material used for indirect restorations, after grinding and repolishing by intraoral means.

Materials and Methods

The materials used were the lithium disilicate glass ceramic IPS e.max Press (EMP) and the indirect resin composite restoration system Gradia (GR). Twelve specimen disks were prepared from each material according to the manufacturer of each material. Five initial measurements of the Ra (Ra1) were made on each specimen as a referral basis, and the specimens were ground with a fine (red) diamond bur. The specimens were repolished using (a) Komet Dialite Polishing Kit for EMP and (b) Enhance Finishing and Polishing System and Prisma Gloss Polishing Paste for GR. Five final Ra (Ra2) measurements were performed on each specimen. All measurements were made using a laser profilometer. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was also used to visualize the initial surface morphology and the morphological changes on the specimens’ surface after repolishing.

Results

A highly significant difference was found between Ra1EMP and Ra2EMP (p < 0.001), between Ra1GR and Ra2GR (p < 0.001), as well as between Ra2EMP and Ra2GR (p < 0.001), when compared in pairs. A highly significant difference (p < 0.001) was also found between ΔRaEMP and ΔRaGR, with ΔRaGR being higher than ΔRaEMP. The RaGR values were higher than the RaEMP values at all times. SEM revealed that both EMP and GR repolished surfaces presented with irregularities; however, in GR specimens major voids and craters were present.

Conclusions

EMP was found to perform better when polished by intraoral means compared with GR. Both materials exhibited Ra2 above the critical threshold for increased plaque accumulation and periodontal inflammation. If enamel‐to‐enamel roughness found in occlusal contact areas is considered as baseline, both materials were clinically acceptable after repolishing.
Adam Smith, Ethicist
Authors: McRorie Christina
Published: October 2015

This essay argues that Adam Smith's political economy is premised upon a moral anthropology, and that greater attention to Smith from religious ethicists may both improve Smith scholarship and deepen dialogue on economic themes within the field of religious ethics. It does so first by surveying common readings of Smith and noting that engagement of his work within religious ethics and theology tends to rely on misconceptions prevalent in these readings. It then outlines the moral psychology that links Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments and Wealth of Nations and explains the importance of this moral psychology for Smith's ambivalent analysis of commercial society. Reflecting on the case of Smith's work, it concludes by arguing that attention from religious ethicists may also improve contemporary political economic debates, given that they are often premised upon latent assumptions about moral anthropology.