bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nalmefene is effective at reducing alcohol seeking, treating alcohol‐cocaine interactions and reducing alcohol‐induced histone deacetylases gene expression in blood
Authors: Calleja‐Conde Javier , Echeverry‐Alzate Victor , Giné Elena , Bühler Kora‐Mareen , Nadal Roser , Maldonado Rafael , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando , Gual Antoni , López‐Moreno Jose Antonio
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose

The opioid antagonist nalmefene (selincro®) was approved for alcohol‐related disorders by the European Medicines Agency in 2013. However, there have been no studies regarding the effectiveness of nalmefene when alcohol is used in combination with cocaine.

Experimental Approach

Using operant alcohol self‐administration in Wistar rats and qRT‐PCR, we evaluated (i) the dose–response curve for s.c. and p.o. nalmefene; (ii) the effects of nalmefene with increasing concentrations of alcohol; (iii) the efficacy of nalmefene on cocaine‐potentiated alcohol responding; and (iv) the gene expression profiles of histone deacetylases (Hdac1–11) in peripheral blood in vivo and in the prefrontal cortex, heart, liver and kidney post mortem.

Key Results

S.c. (0.01, 0.05, 0.1 mg·kg−1) and p.o. (10, 20, 40 mg·kg−1) nalmefene dose‐dependently reduced alcohol‐reinforced responding by up to 50.3%. This effect of nalmefene was not dependent on alcohol concentration (10, 15, 20%). Cocaine potentiated alcohol responding by approximately 40% and nalmefene (0.05 mg·kg−1) reversed this effect of cocaine. Alcohol increased Hdac gene expression in blood and nalmefene prevented the increases in Hdacs 3, 8, 5, 7, 9, 6 and 10. In the other tissues, alcohol and nalmefene either did not alter the gene expression of Hdacs, as in the prefrontal cortex, or a tissue‐Hdac‐specific effect was observed.

Conclusions and Implications

Nalmefene might be effective as a treatment for alcohol‐dependent patients who also use cocaine. Also, the expression of Hdacs in peripheral blood might be useful as a biomarker of alcohol use and drug response.
The α7 nicotinic receptor dual allosteric agonist and positive allosteric modulator GAT107 reverses nociception in mouse models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain
Authors: Bagdas Deniz , Wilkerson Jenny L , Kulkarni Abhijit , Toma Wisam , AlSharari Shakir , Gul Zulfiye , Lichtman Aron H , Papke Roger L , Thakur Ganesh A , Damaj M Imad
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose

Orthosteric agonists and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of the α7 nicotinic ACh receptor (nAChR) represent novel therapeutic approaches for pain modulation. Moreover, compounds with dual function as allosteric agonists and PAMs, known as ago‐PAMs, add further regulation of receptor function.

Experimental Approach

Initial studies examined the α7 ago‐PAM, GAT107, in the formalin, complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), LPS inflammatory pain models, the chronic constriction injury neuropathic pain model and the tail flick and hot plate acute thermal nociceptive assays. Additional studies examined the locus of action of GAT107 and immunohistochemical markers in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord in the CFA model.

Key Results

Complementary pharmacological and genetic approaches confirmed that the dose‐dependent antinociceptive effects of GAT107 were mediated through α7 nAChR. However, GAT107 was inactive in the tail flick and hot plate assays. In addition, GAT107 blocked conditioned place aversion elicited by acetic acid injection. Furthermore, intrathecal, but not intraplantar, injections of GAT107 reversed nociception in the CFA model, suggesting a spinal component of action. Immunohistochemical evaluation revealed an increase in the expression of astrocyte‐specific glial fibrillary acidic protein and phosphorylated p38MAPK within the spinal cords of mice treated with CFA, which was attenuated by intrathecal GAT107 treatment. Importantly, GAT107 did not elicit motor impairment and continued to produce antinociceptive effects after subchronic administration in both phases of the formalin test.

Conclusions and Implications

Collectively, these results provide the first proof of principle that α7 ago‐PAMs represent an effective pharmacological strategy for treating inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
Maternal age and asthma in Latino populations
Authors: Abid Z. , Oh S. S. , Hu D. , Sen S. , Huntsman S. , Eng C. , Farber H. J. , Rodriguez‐Cintron W. , Rodriguez‐Santana J. R. , Serebrisky D. , Avila P. C. , Thyne S. M. , Kim K.‐Y. A. , Borrell L. N. , Williams L. K. , Seibold M. A. , Burchard E. G. , Kumar R.
Published: May 2016

Background

Younger maternal age at birth is associated with increased risk of asthma in offspring in European descent populations, but has not been studied in Latino populations.

Objectives

We sought to examine the relationship between maternal age at birth and prevalence of asthma in a nationwide study of Latino children.

Methods

We included 3473 Latino children aged 8–21 years (1696 subjects with physician‐diagnosed asthma and 1777 healthy controls) from five US centres and Puerto Rico recruited from July 2008 through November 2011. We used multiple logistic regression models to examine the effect of maternal age at birth on asthma in offspring overall and in analyses stratified by ethnic subgroup (Mexican American, Puerto Rican and other Latino). Secondary analyses evaluated the effects of siblings, acculturation and income on this relationship.

Results

Maternal age < 20 years was significantly associated with decreased odds of asthma in offspring, independent of other risk factors (OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.57–0.93). In subgroup analyses, the protective effect of younger maternal age was observed only in Mexican Americans (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.79). In Puerto Ricans, older maternal age was associated with decreased odds of asthma (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44–0.97). In further stratified models, the protective effect of younger maternal age in Mexican Americans was seen only in children without older siblings (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.23–0.81).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

In contrast to European descent populations, younger maternal age was associated with decreased odds of asthma in offspring in Mexican American women. Asthma is common in urban minority populations but the factors underlying the varying prevalence among different Latino ethnicities in the United States is not well understood. Maternal age represents one factor that may help to explain this variability.
Long‐term Evaluation of Peri‐implant Bone Level after Reconstruction of Severely Atrophic Edentulous Maxilla via Vertical and Horizontal Guided Bone Regeneration in Combination with Sinus Augmentation: A Case Series with 1 to 15 Years of Loading
Authors: Urban Istvan A. , Monje Alberto , Lozada Jaime L. , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: May 2016

Background

To the best of the authors' knowledge, there is very limited clinical data on the outcomes of simultaneous guided bone regeneration (GBR) for horizontal and/or vertical bone gain for the reconstruction of severely atrophic edentulous maxilla. Therefore, the purpose of the clinical series presented herein was to clinically evaluate long‐term horizontal and vertical bone gain, as well as implant survival rate after reconstruction of severely atrophic edentulous maxillary ridges.

Material and Methods

Sixteen patients (mean age: 64.6 ± 14.6 years of age) were consecutively treated for vertical and/or horizontal bone augmentation via GBR in combination with bilateral sinus augmentation utilizing a mixture of autologous and anorganic bovine bone. Implant survival, bone gain, intraoperative/postoperative complications and peri‐implant bone loss were calculated up to the last follow‐up exam.

Results

Overall, 122 dental implants were placed into augmented sites and have been followed from 12 to 180 months (mean: 76.5 months). Implant survival was 100% (satisfactory survival rate of 97.5%). Mean bone gain was 5.6 mm (max: 9 mm; min: 3 mm) While vertical bone gain was 5.1 ± 1.8 mm; horizontal bone gain was 7.0 ± 1.5 mm. No intraoperative/postoperative complications were noted. Mean peri‐implant bone loss values were consistent within the standards for implant success (1.4 ± 1.0 mm). At patient‐level, only one patient who had three implants presented with severe peri‐implant bone loss.

Conclusion

Complete reconstruction of an atrophied maxilla can be successfully achieved by means of guided bone regeneration for horizontal and/or vertical bone gain including bilateral sinus augmentation using a mixture of anorganic bovine bone and autologous bone.
Gene expression profiles in guided bone regeneration using combinations of different biomaterials: a pilot animal study
Authors: Suleimenova Dina , Hashimi Saeed M. , Li Ma , Ivanovski Saso , Mattheos Nikos
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the gene expression profile related to guided bone regeneration (GBR) at the early healing stage while using combinations of different biomaterials.

Materials and methods

Cranial defects in 4 New Zealand rabbits were filled with A) biphasic calcium phosphate/experimental pericardium‐derived collagen membrane, B) Bio‐Oss®/Bio‐Gide®, C) biphasic calcium phosphate/strontium hydroxyapatite‐containing collagen membrane and D) Bio‐Oss®/strontium hydroxyapatite‐containing collagen membrane. Seven days after surgery, one animal was subjected to histological observation and histomorphometric analysis, and three animals to real‐time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An RT2 Profiler PCR Array (PANZ‐026Z, QIAGEN, QIAGEN Sciences, Germantown, MD, USA) was conducted to observe the gene expression profile of groups A, C and D as compared with the control group B.

Results

The analysis showed 9 of the 84 genes on the array to be significantly different in the three experimental groups (six genes in group D, four in group C and one in group A). Group D demonstrated the most changes in gene expression profile at day 7. Genes that were significantly down‐regulated (AHSG, EGF) or up‐regulated (CDH11, MMP13, GLI1 and MCSF) are responsible for early‐stage bone formation, bone remodeling and pre‐osteoclast development. The gene expression profile of this group correlated with the histological findings, as this group showed the higher formation of osteoid as compared with the other groups.

Conclusion

Gene expression patterns at early‐stage healing of GBR‐treated defects appear to be related to the biomaterial used. The combination of Bio‐Oss® and strontium hydroxyapatite‐containing collagen membrane showed the most pro‐osteogenic gene regulation profile (group D), implying the stimulation of key transcriptional factors, which appeared to translate into the up‐regulation of the osteogenic process and earlier bone formation.
Granulomatous‐lymphocytic interstitial lung disease as the first manifestation of common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Tashtoush Basheer , Memarpour Roya , Ramirez Jose , Bejarano Pablo , Mehta Jinesh
Published: May 2016

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is one of the most common primary immunodeficiencies, which is characterized by reduced serum immunoglobulin levels and B‐lymphocyte dysfunction. There are many clinical manifestations of this disease, the most common of which are recurrent respiratory tract infections. Among the most recently recognized autoimmune manifestation of CVID is a disease described as granulomatous‐lymphocytic interstitial lung disease (GLILD), where CVID coexists with a small airway lymphoproliferative disorder, mimicking follicular bronchiolitis, or lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis (LIP) on histology specimens. We herein describe the clinical and radiological features of GLILD in a 55‐year‐old woman where the diagnosis of CVID was actively pursued and eventually confirmed after her lung biopsy showed characteristic features of GLILD. The patient had dramatic response to treatment with IVIG and corticosteroids for 3 months followed by Mycophenolate mofetil for maintenance therapy.
Patterns of drug dependence in a Queensland (Australia) sample of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people who inject drugs
Authors: Smirnov Andrew , Kemp Robert , Ward James , Henderson Suzanna , Williams Sidney , Dev Abhilash , Najman Jake M.
Published: May 2016

Introduction and Aims

Despite over‐representation of Indigenous Australians in sentinel studies of injecting drug use, little is known about relevant patterns of drug use and dependence. This study compares drug dependence and possible contributing factors in Indigenous and non‐Indigenous Australians who inject drugs.

Design and Methods

Respondent‐driven sampling was used in major cities and ‘peer recruitment’ in regional towns of Queensland to obtain a community sample of Indigenous (n = 282) and non‐Indigenous (n = 267) injectors. Data are cross sectional. Multinomial models were developed for each group to examine types of dependence on injected drugs (no dependence, methamphetamine‐dependent only, opioid‐dependent only, dependent on methamphetamine and opioids).

Results

Around one‐fifth of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous injectors were dependent on both methamphetamine and opioids in the previous 12 months. Psychological distress was associated with dual dependence on these drugs for Indigenous [adjusted relative risk (ARR) 4.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.08–11.34] and non‐Indigenous (ARR 4.14, 95% CI 1.59–10.78) participants. Unemployment (ARR 8.98, 95% CI 2.25–35.82) and repeated (> once) incarceration as an adult (ARR 3.78, 95% CI 1.43–9.97) were associated with dual dependence for Indigenous participants only. Indigenous participants had high rates of alcohol dependence, except for those dependent on opioids only.

Discussion and Conclusions

The drug dependence patterns of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people who inject drugs were similar, including the proportions dependent on both methamphetamine and opioids. However, for Indigenous injectors, there was a stronger association between drug dependence and contextual factors such as unemployment and incarceration. Expansion of treatment options and community‐level programs may be required. [Smirnov A, Kemp R, Ward J, Henderson S, Williams S, Dev A, Najman J M. Patterns of drug dependence in a Queensland (Australia) sample of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people who inject drugs. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:611‐619]
Death from liver disease in a cohort of injecting opioid users in a Swedish city in relation to registration for opioid substitution therapy
Authors: Jerkeman Anna , Håkansson Anders , Rylance Rebecca , Wagner Philippe , Alanko Blomé Marianne , Björkman Per
Published: May 2016

Introduction and Aims

Injecting opioid users are at elevated risk of death. Although liver disease (especially hepatitis C) is common, its impact on mortality is low in active injectors. Because opioid substitution therapy (OST) reduces the risk of death from directly drug related causes, we hypothesised that the proportion of liver‐related deaths would increase in subjects receiving OST. We investigated liver‐related mortality in a cohort of injecting opioid users attending a needle exchange program (NEP) in a Swedish city in relation to OST exposure.

Design and Methods

Participants enrolled in the NEP between 1987 and 2011 with available national identity numbers, and registered use of opioids, were included. Linkage based on national identity numbers was performed with national registers for death, emigration and prescription of OST. Participants were categorised as non‐OST recipients until the registered date of first OST prescription, and hence as OST recipients. Hazard ratios were calculated by Cox regression for overall and liver‐related mortality in relation to OST, with OST as a time‐dependent variable.

Results

Among 4494 NEP participants, 1488 opioid users were identified; 711/1488 had been prescribed OST. During a follow‐up period of 15 546 person‐years 368 deaths occurred. Sixteen deaths were caused by liver disease; 10 of these occurred in OST recipients. The risk of liver‐related death was significantly increased in OST receiving participants (hazard ratio 3.08, 95% confidence interval [1.09, 8.68], P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Liver related mortality among opioid users was significantly elevated in OST recipients, showing the long‐term importance of chronic liver disease in this population. [Jerkeman A, Håkansson A, Rylance R, Wagner P, Alanko Blomé M, Björkman P. Death from liver disease in a cohort of injecting opioid users in a Swedish city in relation to registration for opioid substitution therapy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:424–431]
Pathophysiologische Grundlagen der Systemtherapien bei Psoriasis
Authors: Volc Sebastian , Ghoreschi Kamran
Published: May 2016

Das Spektrum der systemischen antipsoriatischen Therapie hat sich in den letzten 15 Jahren deutlich erweitert. Während uns bis zum Ende des letzten Jahrtausends mit Methotrexat, Ciclosporin, Acitretin und Fumarsäureester lediglich vier orale Systemtherapien zur Verfügung standen, verfügen wir heute zusätzlich über sieben verschiedene Biologika und ein neues orales Antipsoriatikum. Hinzu kommen die ersten verfügbaren Biosimilars. Sechs weitere Biologika mit neuen Zielstrukturen und mindestens vier weitere Biosimilars befinden sich aktuell in der Phase‐III‐Prüfung. Zu verdanken haben wir diese Entwicklung den neuen Erkenntnissen über die Pathogenese der Psoriasis, bei der nicht nur der Tumornekrosefaktor (TNF), sondern insbesondere die Th17‐Immunantwort mit ihren Zytokinen Interleukin 23 und 17 von zentraler Bedeutung sind. Hierauf basieren sowohl die neue Generation der Biologika als auch die neue Generation von immunmodulatorischen small molecules. Phosphodiesterase‐4‐Inhibitoren, Dimethylfumarat‐Präparate und Januskinase‐Inhibitoren interagieren alle mit der Th17‐Immunantwort. Einige dieser Substanzen befinden sich bereits in fortgeschrittener klinischer Entwicklung und wirken auch bei der Psoriasisarthritis. Somit gehören sowohl die Psoriasis als auch die Psoriasisarthritis heute zu den am besten kontrollierbaren entzündlichen Autoimmunkrankheiten. Die Dermatologie entwickelt sich zunehmend zu einer Domäne moderner zielgerichteter Immuntherapien.
Religious narratives and their implications for disaster risk reduction
Authors: McGeehan Kathleen M. , Baker Charlene K.
Published: May 2016

The role of religious factors in the disaster experience has been under‐investigated. This is despite evidence of their influence throughout the disaster cycle, including: the way in which the event is interpreted; how the community recovers; and the strategies implemented to reduce future risk. This qualitative study examined the role of faith in the disaster experience of four faith communities in the Hawaiian Islands of the United States. Twenty‐six individuals from the Bahá'í, Buddhist, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‐day Saints (LDS), and United Methodist Church communities participated, including 10 faith leaders and 16 laypersons. The results suggest that religious narratives provide a framework for interpretation of, preparedness for, and responses to disasters. Preparedness varied widely across faith communities, with the LDS community reporting greater levels of preparedness than other communities. Recommendations include the development of collaborative efforts between disaster managers and faith leaders to increase preparedness within faith communities, which may facilitate community‐wide disaster risk reduction.
Intravenous immunoglobulin in paediatric neurology: safety, adherence to guidelines, and long‐term outcome
Authors: Nosadini Margherita , Mohammad Shekeeb S , Suppiej Agnese , Sartori Stefano , Dale Russell C ,   IVIG in Neurology Study Group
Published: May 2016

Aim

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is an expensive therapy used in immunodeficiency and autoimmune disorders. Increasing demands and consequent shortages result in a need for usage to conform to guidelines.

Method

We retrospectively evaluated IVIG use for neuroimmunological indications and adherence to existing guidelines in a major Australian paediatric hospital between 2000 and 2014.

Results

One‐hundred and ninety‐six children (96 male, 100 female; mean age at disease onset 6y 5mo [range 3mo–15y 10mo], mean age at first IVIG dose 7y 2mo [range 3mo–16y 5mo]) received IVIG for neuroimmunological indications during the study period (28.1% had Guillain–Barré syndrome), representing 15.5% of all hospital indications. In total, 1669 IVIG courses were administered (total 57 221g, median 78g/patient, range 12–5748g). The highest median numbers of courses were in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathies, opsoclonus‐myoclonus ataxia syndrome, suspected immune‐mediated epilepsies, and Rasmussen's encephalitis. Adverse reactions occurred in 25.5% of patients, but these were mostly minor. Outcome at follow‐up was best in anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (anti‐NMDAR) encephalitis, Guillain–Barré syndrome, and myasthenia gravis, and worst in Rasmussen's encephalitis and epilepsies. The total cost of IVIG was US$2 595 907 (median $3538/patient, range $544–260 766). Of patients receiving IVIG, 45.4% to 57.1% were given the therapy for ‘weak’ indications or indications ‘not listed’ in international guidelines. Some entities commonly treated with IVIG in current practice, such as anti‐NMDAR encephalitis and transverse myelitis, are not listed in most guidelines.

Interpretation

Our study demonstrates that IVIG is generally well tolerated but expensive, and discloses discrepancies between guidelines and clinical practice in paediatric neurology, suggesting both the need for greater adherence to current recommendations, and for recommendations to be updated to accommodate emerging indications.
Impaired Left and Right Ventricular Systolic and Diastolic Function in Response to Exercise in Patients with Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Narayanan Meena , Bamba Alyssa , Liu Shuang , Naqvi Tasneem Z.
Published: May 2016

Background

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is associated with exercise intolerance. To evaluate mechanisms of exercise intolerance in patients with DD, we performed bicycle stress echocardiography.

Method and Results

Doppler measurements were performed at baseline, during exercise and recovery in 26 patients (58 ± 11 years) with DD and normal left ventricular ejection fraction and 6 normal controls (53 ± 5 years). Compared to controls, patients achieved similar target heart rates but lower METs (5.5 ± 2 vs. 9.8 ± 3, P < 0.01) and a higher peak pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) at peak exercise (50 ± 13 vs. 32 ± 7 mmHg, P < 0.01) despite similar PAP at rest and similar mean blood pressure at peak exercise (110.4 ± 18.0 vs. 106.9 ± 11.4 mmHg, P = NS). In patients versus controls, mitral E/E' was similar at baseline (10 ± 3 vs. 8 ± 1.3, P = NS) but higher at recovery (11 ± 2 vs. 7 ± 2, P < 0.05), % mitral filling time was shorter at baseline, onset, and peak exercise, whereas % LV and RV ejection time was similar to controls throughout exercise. Compared to controls, lateral mitral annular S' (11.8 ± 2.5 cm/sec vs. 14.9 ± 1.9 cm/sec, P < 0.02) and tricuspid annular S' (14.8 ± 4.1 cm/sec vs. 19.4 ± 4.0 cm/sec, P < 0.05) were lower at peak exercise in patients.

Conclusion

Diastolic filling time is reduced at rest and stress while LV ejection time increases normally during exercise in DD. There is a reduced systolic reserve in LV and RV during exercise in DD. These mechanisms contribute to exercise intolerance and elevation of left atrial and PAP in patients with DD.
Topographic distributions of emergent trees in tropical forests of the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Authors: Balzotti Christopher S. , Asner Gregory P. , Taylor Philip G. , Cole Rebecca , Osborne Brooke B. , Cleveland Cory C. , Porder Stephen , Townsend Alan R.
Published: May 2016

Tropical rainforests are reservoirs of terrestrial carbon and biodiversity. Large and often emergent trees store disproportionately large amounts of aboveground carbon and greatly influence the structure and functioning of tropical rainforests. Despite their importance, controls on the abundance and distribution of emergent trees are largely unknown across tropical landscapes. Conventional field approaches are limited in their ability to characterize patterns in emergent trees across vast landscapes with varying environmental conditions and floristic composition. Here, we used a high‐resolution light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor aboard the Carnegie Airborne Observatory Airborne Taxonomic Mapping System (CAO‐AToMS) to examine the abundance and distribution of tall emergent tree crowns (ETC) relative to surrounding tree crowns (STC) across the Osa Peninsula, a geologically and topographically diverse region of Costa Rica. The abundance of ETC was clearly influenced by fine‐scale topographic variation, with distribution patterns that held across a variety of geologic substrates. Specifically, the density of ETC was much greater on lower slopes and in valleys, compared to upper slopes and ridges. Furthermore, using the CAO high‐fidelity imaging spectrometer, ETC had a different spectral signature than that of STC. Most notably, ETC had lower remotely sensed foliar nitrogen than STC, which was verified with an independent field survey of canopy leaf chemistry. The underlying mechanisms to explain the topographic‐dependence of ETCs and linkages to canopy N are unknown, and remain an important area of research.
Density‐mediated indirect interactions alter host foraging behaviour of parasitoids without altering foraging efficiency
Authors: DE RIJK MARJOLEIN , ZHANG XI , VAN DER LOO JUULTJE A. H. , ENGEL BAS , DICKE MARCEL , POELMAN ERIK H.
Published: May 2016

1. Foraging decisions of parasitoids are influenced by host density via density‐mediated indirect interactions. However, in the parasitoid's environment, non‐suitable herbivores are also present. These non‐hosts also occur in different densities, which can affect a parasitoid's foraging behaviour.

2. The influence of non‐host densities can be expressed during the first phase of the foraging process, when parasitoids use plant volatiles to locate plants infested by their host. They may also play a role during the second phase, when parasitoids use infochemicals from the host and plant to locate, recognise and accept the host.

3. By using laboratory and field setups, it was studied whether the density of non‐host herbivores influences these two phases of the foraging behaviour of the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata as well as the parasitoid's efficiency to find its host, Pieris brassicae caterpillars.

4. The findings show that a high non‐host density, regardless of the species used, negatively affected parasitoid preference for host‐infested plants, but that the behaviour on the plant and the total host‐finding efficiency of the parasitoids were not influenced by non‐host density.

5. These results are discussed in the context of density‐mediated indirect interactions.
Greenhead ants Rhytidoponera metallica make trade‐offs between food temperature and food concentration
Authors: PETTIT LACHLAN , LATTY TANYA
Published: May 2016

1. Foraging animals are often faced with foods that vary in several important attributes, some of which may be in conflict with one another. For ectothermic animals, food temperature can be an important characteristic, as the consumption of cold foods is metabolically costly.

2. Here, the effect of food temperature on food preferences in the green‐headed ant Rhytidoponera metallica (Smith, 1858) was investigated. The first aim of the study was to determine how food concentration (caloric value) and relative food temperature influenced colony‐level preferences. We found that, all else being equal, green‐headed ant colonies preferred warmer food solutions over colder solutions, and more concentrated food solutions over less concentrated ones.

3. Next, the question of whether green‐head ant colonies could make trade‐offs between temperature and food concentration was tested. It was found that ant colonies switched their preferences in favour of a colder food solution when the colder food solution was 10 times more concentrated than the warmer food solution.

4. These experiments show that temperature is an important characteristic shaping food preferences in ants. Moreover, we show that colonies can make trade‐offs between food concentration and food temperature.
Political Party Affiliation of the President, Majority in Congress, and Sin Stock Returns
Authors: Sabherwal Sanjiv , Sarkar Salil K. , Uddin Mohammad Riaz
Published: May 2016

We find that in contrast to the stock market, which performs better during Democratic presidencies, “sin” stocks—publicly traded producers of tobacco, alcohol, and gaming—perform better during Republican presidencies and even more so when the Republican presidency is accompanied by a Republican majority in at least one chamber of Congress. We examine whether sin firms use contributions to establish connections with politicians and find that sin firms contribute more to Republican candidates and that these contributions are greater when Republicans are in power. We also find a positive relation between political contributions and future returns. The relation is stronger for contributions to Republicans.
What factors influence healthy aging? A person‐centered approach among older adults in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Li‐Fan , Su Pei‐Fang
Published: May 2016

Aim

The present study aimed to identify the health profiles of older adults by using latent class analysis to investigate health heterogeneity and to determine what factors predicted healthy aging among an oldest‐old sample cohort that was followed up for 14 years in Taiwan.

Methods

Data were drawn from five waves (carried out in 1993, 1996, 1999, 2003 and 2007) of the Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging to examine the changes in health heterogeneity in a nationally representative oldest‐old cohort of Taiwanese. Overall, data from a total of 11 145 observations of 3155 older adults were considered. The influential factors predicting health changes were analyzed by using a generalized estimating equation.

Results

The results showed that four health profiles were identified among the aging population observed in the Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging. With increasing age, the combined effects of the physical functioning, cognitive and emotional health, and comorbidities of older adults significantly impact their health changes. Apart from health deteriorating with age and sex disparities, educational and economic status, health behaviors, and social participation at the individual level were found to be the robust factors in predicting healthy aging.

Conclusions

In considering what factors impact healthy aging, we suggest that a person‐centered approach would be useful and critical for policy makers to understand the compositions of health profiles and the influencing factors in view of a life‐course perspective. Based on the factors identified as influencing healthy aging at the individual level, it is imperative from a policy‐making perspective to maximize opportunities for healthy aging.Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 697–707.
Childhood Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence and Risk of Migraine Among Pregnant Women: An Epidemiologic Study
Authors: Gelaye Bizu , Do Ngan , Avila Samantha , Carlos Velez Juan , Zhong Qiu‐Yue , Sanchez Sixto E. , Lee Peterlin B. , Williams Michelle A.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To examine the independent and joint associations of childhood abuse and intimate partner violence with migraine among pregnant women.

Background

Childhood abuse and intimate partner violence have each been associated with migraine headaches in previous studies, but these associations have not been explored among pregnant women.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among a cohort of 2970 pregnant women attending prenatal clinics in Lima, Peru. History of childhood abuse (ie, physical or sexual abuse) was assessed using the Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse Questionnaire. Intimate partner violence (IPV) was assessed using the World Health Organization questionnaire. Migraine classification (including migraine and probable migraine) was based on International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)‐III beta criteria. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate odd ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

The prevalence of any migraine was 33.5% while approximately 70% of participants reported a history of childhood abuse and 36.7% a history of IPV. Women with a history of any childhood abuse had a 38% increased odds of any migraine compared to women with no history of childhood abuse (OR = 1.38; 95% CI 1.15‐1.64). The odds of migraine increased with increasing numbers of experienced childhood abuse events (Ptrend < .001). Additionally, after adjusting for confounders women with a history of IPV had a 43% increased odds of any migraine as compared to women without intimate partner violence (OR = 1.43; 95%CI 1.02‐2.02). Women with a joint positive history of childhood abuse and IPV, as compared with the reference group, had a 88% increased odds of migraine (aOR = 1.88, 95%CI: 1.51‐2.35).

Conclusion

Childhood abuse and IPV are associated with increased odds of migraine in pregnant women. Our findings highlight the importance of screening for abuse among pregnant migraineurs to help guide treatment strategies.
Determination of residual 1,4‐dioxane in surfactants and cleaning agents using headspace single‐drop microextraction followed by gas chromatography–flame ionization detection
Authors: Saraji M. , Shirvani N.
Published: May 2016

Objective

Polyethoxylated surfactants are widely used in the formulation of different cleaning agents such as shampoo, dish washing and hand washing products and lotion formulation. During the production of polyethoxylated surfactants, 1,4‐dioxane as a toxic and carcinogenic by‐product is formed. A simple low‐cost method based on headspace single‐drop microextraction combined with gas chromatography–flame ionization detection was developed for the determination of 1,4‐dioxane in surfactants and cleaning agents.

Methods

In this method, 1,4‐dioxane was extracted from 8.0 mL sample solution into a microdrop of an organic solvent, and then, it was injected to gas chromatography. The effects of such parameters as the solvent type, salt addition, microdrop volume, stirring rate, equilibrium time, extraction time and the temperature of sample solution on the extraction performance were studied and optimized. An ethoxylated surfactant containing 1,4‐dioxane was used as the sample for the optimization of the extraction parameters.

Results

The linear range, determination coefficient, limit of detection and relative standard deviation of the method were 0.5–100 μg g−1, 0.9977, 0.4 μg g−1 and 7.2% (n = 5), respectively. Different real samples including sodium lauryl ether sulphate, sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), four brands of shampoo, and hand washing and dish washing liquids were analysed by the method. 1,4‐Dioxane was detected at the concentration range of 2.4–201 μg g−1 in the samples, except dish washing liquid and SLS.

Conclusion

A new method with the merits of simplicity, low cost, low organic solvent consumption, short analysis time, good repeatability and suitable detection limit was developed for the analysis of 1,4‐dioxane in surfactants and cleaning agents.
Immunohistochemical study of hepatic fibropoiesis associated with canine visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Madeira Igor M. V. M. , Pereira Debora. M. O. , Sousa Aline. A. , Vilela Cesar A. , Amorim Izabela F. G. , Caliari Marcelo V. , Souza Carolina C. , Tafuri Wagner L.
Published: May 2016

Hepatic fibropoiesis has been confirmed in canine visceral leishmaniasis. In fibrotic disease, hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play an important role in fibropoiesis, undergoing activation by TGF‐β to acquire characteristics of myofibroblasts. These cells show extensive capacity for proliferation, motility, contractility, collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix component synthesis. The aim of this work was to identify markers of HSC activation in 10 symptomatic and 10 asymptomatic dogs naturally infected with Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum. Eight uninfected dogs were used as controls. Alpha‐actin (α‐SMA), vimentin and cytokeratin were investigated by immunohistochemistry as HSC markers. The cytokine TGF‐β in tissue was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry. All infected dogs showed higher numbers of reticular fibres than controls. Fibropoiesis found in infected dogs was always associated with the presence of parasites and chronic granulomatous hepatitis. Positive correlation was found among fibropoiesis, parasite tissue load and expression of α‐SMA. There was no correlation between fibropoiesis, vimentin and cytokeratin markers. The expression of cytokine TGF‐β was higher in infected dogs than in controls, but not significantly different between symptomatic and asymptomatic dogs. These results confirm previous work describing the intense hepatic fibropoiesis in dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum, but now associated them with overexpression of TGF‐β, where α‐SMA may be a superior marker for activated HSC cells in CVL.
Crystallization of Glass: What We Know, What We Need to Know
Authors: Schmelzer Jürn W. P. , Fokin Vladimir M. , Abyzov Alexander S.
Published: May 2016

The relevance of the concepts of fragility and of the glass transition temperature for the understanding of crystal nucleation and growth in glass‐forming liquids is explored. It is shown that classical fragility can be relevant for the understanding of the crystallization behavior only if several severe conditions are fulfilled that are rarely met. By this reason, a new definition of liquid fragility is introduced shown to be able to reflect appropriately the maxima of crystal nucleation, growth, and overall crystallization rates. The origin of the previously reported correlations between glass transition temperatures and intensity of crystallization processes is specified. Further, interpreted in terms of classical nucleation theory, for a variety of oxide glass‐forming liquids, the thermodynamic barrier for homogeneous crystal nucleation exhibits at high undercooling an unusual increase with a decrease in temperature. Such behavior cannot be explained in terms of classical nucleation theory. Different directions of generalization of the classical theory are discussed, which may lead to a resolution of these problems. The realization of such generalization is considered to be a prerequisite for a generally deeper understanding of the complex phenomena occurring in melt crystallization with its rich field of applications.
Work related stress, burnout, job satisfaction and general health of nurses: A follow‐up study
Authors: Khamisa Natasha , Peltzer Karl , Ilic Dragan , Oldenburg Brian
Published: May 2016

Nurses experience high levels of work related stress and burnout as well as low job satisfaction and poor general health owing to the nature of their work. This paper seeks to provide a better understanding of the nature of relationships between work related stress, burnout, job satisfaction and general health of nurses over one year. This study involved a longitudinal design. Two hundred and seventy seven nurses from four hospitals completed a follow up survey consisting of five questionnaires. Data were collected between 2013 and 2014. The data were analysed using generalized estimation equation analysis. Lack of support was associated with burnout, patient care was associated with job satisfaction and staff issues were associated with general health of nurses. Burnout is more strongly related to job satisfaction than general health. The findings of this study could inform evidence based policy and practice through interventions aimed at improving job satisfaction and reducing the impact of burnout on general health of nurses.
Romantic, sexual, and sexual risk behaviours of adolescent females with severe obesity
Authors: Becnel J. N. , Zeller M. H. , Noll J. G. , Sarwer D. B. , Reiter‐Purtill J. , Michalsky M. , Peugh J. , Biro F. M. ,   for the TeenView Study Group in cooperation with Teen‐LABS Consortium
Published: May 2016

Background

There is an increasing adolescent population with severe obesity with impairments in social and romantic relationships that are seeking clinical weight management, including weight loss surgery (WLS).

Objective

To document romantic, sexual and sexual risk behaviours in a clinical sample of adolescent females with severe obesity (BMI > 40 kg/m2) compared to those of healthy weight (HW).

Methods

This multi‐site study—an ancillary to a prospective longitudinal observational study documenting health in adolescents having WLS—presents pre‐operative/baseline data from 108 females undergoing WLS, 68 severely obese seeking lifestyle intervention and 118 of HW. Romantic and sexual risk behaviour and birth control information sources were assessed using the Sexual Activities and Attitudes Questionnaire (SAAQ).

Results

Severely obese females reported engaging in fewer romantic and sexual behaviours compared to HW. Similar to HW, a subgroup (25%) of severely females were engaging in higher rates of sexual risk behaviours and reported pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A considerable number (28–44%) reported receiving no birth control information from physicians.

Conclusions

Discussion topics with the adolescent patient should extend beyond reproductive health needs (e.g. contraception, unintended pregnancies) to include guidance around navigating romantic and sexual health behaviours that are precursors to these outcomes.
The redistribution of medicines: could it become a reality?
Authors: McRae David , Allman Mark , James Delyth
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectives

Prescription medicines that are returned unused to pharmacies in the United Kingdom (UK) cannot be supplied (or redistributed) to other patients. The aim of the study was to investigate whether or not consensus could be achieved between pharmacists on the barriers and potential solutions they perceive towards the redistribution of returned medicines.

Methods

A two-round electronic modified Delphi study was employed. Statements were generated following qualitative interviews (n = 29) with doctors, nurses and pharmacists from primary and secondary care from one Health Board (HB) in South East Wales. The Delphi panel were asked to rate the degree to which they agreed (or disagreed) with each statement. The panel was recruited via an email invitation forwarded to all hospital (n = 70), primary care (n = 11) and community pharmacists (n = 77) from one HB in South East Wales.

Key findings

Two rounds of Delphi were completed by 17 pharmacists. Consensus was achieved for seven (n = 26) ‘barrier’ and seven (n = 16) ‘solution’ statements. From the statements which achieved consensus, it was identified that the following criteria would need to be met for pharmacists to potentially accept the redistribution of medicines in solid dosage forms (tablets and capsules): protection for pharmacists; guidance from the professional regulator; tamper evident seals; ‘as new’ packaging; technologies to indicate inappropriate storage and public engagement.

Conclusions

This study suggests that pharmacists would potentially be willing to redistribute medicines in solid dosage forms if certain criteria are met.
A New Chilean Migration Act: an Approach to International Standards
Authors: Díaz Tolosa Regina Ingrid
Published: May 2016

The current Chilean Migration Act is the oldest in South America. It was created under the paradigm of national security, not human rights, and today does not adequately serve a participating democratic state, active within the international community. The Chilean government will soon be moving to discuss in congress a new migration act. We want to emphasize that the government should not forget the importance of incorporating international standards of migration policy into the national sphere. Chile is part of the United Nations system and, as a participating member, ratifies all core human rights treaties. Given that the United Nations Human Rights Bodies have made recommendations about migration policy, it is essential that this discussion be brought to the attention of our governing officials. This article reviews the UN recommendations as a concrete approach to the implementation of international standards in Chilean migrant policy.
Predicting the prolonged length of stay of general surgery patients: a supervised learning approach
Authors: Chuang Mao‐Te , Hu Ya‐han , Lo Chia‐Lun
Published: May 2016

Determining the likelihood of a prolonged length of stay (LOS) for surgery patients can improve medical resource management. This study was aimed at developing predictive models for determining whether patient LOS is within the standard LOS after surgery. This study analyzed the complete historical medical records and lab data of 896 clinical cases involving surgeries performed by general surgery physicians. The cases were divided into urgent operation (UO) and non‐UO groups to develop a prolonged LOS prediction model using several supervised learning techniques. Several critical factors for the two groups were identified using the gain ratio technique. The results indicated that the random forest method yielded the most accurate and stable prediction model. Additionally, comorbidity, body temperature, blood sugar, and creatinine were the most influential variables for prolonged LOS in the UO group, whereas blood transfusion, blood pressure, comorbidity, and the number of ICU admissions were the most influential variables in the non‐UO group. This study shows that supervised learning techniques are suitable for analyzing patient medical records in accurately predicting a prolonged LOS; thus, the clinical decision support system developed based on the prediction models may serve as reference tools for communicating with patients before surgery. The system may also assist physicians when making decisions regarding whether patients require more clinical care, thereby improving patient safety.
Embracing Impossible Justice
Authors: Jay Christopher
Published: May 2016

It is often thought that considerations of practicality speak in favour of accepting the principle that if there is no practical alternative to something then that thing is not unjust. I present an argument which suggests that there are in fact practical costs to accepting such a principle, so that on grounds of practicality we perhaps ought to reject it. That argument does not assume that there are any demands of justice which it is impossible to meet, but only that we are very fallible when it comes to knowing what the possibilities are. I then argue that rejecting that principle and embracing a notion of ‘impossible justice’ has positive practical benefits in respect of putting us in a position to respond appropriately to really necessary injustices if there are any.