bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualitative Analysis of the American College of Nurse‐Midwives Student Reports, 2005 to 2014
Authors: Doherty Mary Ellen
Published: November 2015

Introduction

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) is changing the health care landscape in the United States. It is now more important than ever to understand the needs of students who are preparing for roles as health care providers. The purpose of this study was to describe and analyze the American College of Nurse‐Midwives (ACNM) Student Reports from 2005 through 2014 to acquire a better understanding of student needs in light of the historic change in health care reform.

Methods

A document analysis was conducted to review and evaluate 10 student reports using qualitative content analysis. Data were coded, categories were formed, and themes were discovered. The interpretation of the student reports elicited meaning, gained understanding, and developed empirical knowledge.

Results

Eight themes emerged from the data contained in the 10 student reports. These were: 1) public awareness and marketing; 2) midwifery education; 3) funding for midwifery education; 4) preceptor issues; 5) communication and professional issues; 6) diversity and inclusion; 7) transition to practice; and 8) the ACNM Annual Meeting.

Discussion

Students bring a unique perspective to the profession of midwifery and ACNM. This study revealed 8 themes emanating from the student reports spanning 10 years. Each theme showcased in this study is presented through a student lens and was deemed important enough to be mentioned in the majority of the student reports. These themes identify key areas affecting students such as education program content and clinical experiences, diversity and inclusion, preceptor availability and relationships, funding for graduate school and for attending the ACNM Annual Meeting, and a myriad of other significant topics. These students will begin their new careers with the changing structure of the health care industry under the ACA. At this complex and vulnerable time, it is imperative that student voices be heard and that their professional organization remains receptive to their concerns. A continuing dialogue between students and midwifery leadership, faculty, and preceptors will be beneficial to move our profession in the direction of achieving access to high‐quality health care for all.
Neural Substrate Essential for Suppression of Vasopressin Secretion and Excretion of a Water Load
Authors: Pennington Glenn L. , McKinley Michael J.
Published: November 2015

Suppression of vasopressin secretion to very low levels is essential for the excretion of excess water. To investigate a role for the preoptic brain region in the suppression of vasopressin secretion and the excretion of a water load, lesions were made in the vicinity of the lamina terminalis in ewes (LTX‐sheep) and responses to water‐loading or reduction of cerebrospinal fluid NaCl by i.c.v. isotonic mannitol solution were investigated. In normal conscious sheep, intraruminal water‐loading resulted in the urine flow rate increasing and urine osmolality decreasing within 1 h, such that renal free water clearance (CH2O) increased from −1.02 ± 0.16 ml/min (mean ± SEM) to a maximum of +4.99 ± 0.62 ml/min at 2.5 h after water‐loading (P < 0.05, n = 6). Plasma vasopressin levels fell from 0.88 ± 0.17 pg/ml to undetectable levels (< 0.4 pg/ml, n = 4). In LTX‐sheep (n = 6), CH2O did not change significantly after water‐loading (−1.78 ± 0.13 to −2.03 ± 0.49 ml/min at 2.5 h after water‐loading). Plasma vasopressin levels were inappropriately elevated in water‐loaded LTX‐sheep (n = 3). Intracerebroventricular mannitol (1 ml/h for 2 h) resulted in a water diuresis and increase in CH2O (−1.16 ± 0.12 to +2.81 ± 0.58 ml/min, P < 0.05) after 2 h in normal sheep, and plasma vasopressin levels fell significantly from to 0.88 ± 0.23 pg/ml to < 0.4 pg/ml (P < 0.05, n = 6). However, in LTX‐sheep, there was no change in CH2O (−1.31 ± 0.14 to −1.35 ± 0.12 ml/min) or the plasma vasopressin concentration (1.47 ± 0.18 to 1.60 ± 0.44 pg/ml, not significant) with i.c.v. mannitol. The results suggest that an inhibitory pathway from the vicinity of the median preoptic nucleus to the supraoptic and hypothalamic paraventricular nuclei plays an important role in the suppression of vasopressin secretion and the excretion of excess water.
Distinct expression patterns for type II topoisomerases IIA and IIB in the early foetal human telencephalon
Authors: Harkin Lauren F. , Gerrelli Dianne , Gold Diaz Diana C. , Santos Chloe , Alzu'bi Ayman , Austin Caroline A. , Clowry Gavin J.
Published: November 2015

TOP2A and TOP2B are type II topoisomerase enzymes that have important but distinct roles in DNA replication and RNA transcription. Recently, TOP2B has been implicated in the transcription of long genes in particular that play crucial roles in neural development and are susceptible to mutations contributing to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. This study maps their expression in the early foetal human telencephalon between 9 and 12 post‐conceptional weeks. TOP2A immunoreactivity was restricted to cell nuclei of the proliferative layers of the cortex and ganglionic eminences (GE), including the ventricular zone and subventricular zone (SVZ) closely matching expression of the proliferation marker KI67. Comparison with sections immunolabelled for NKX2.1, a medial GE (MGE) marker, and PAX6, a cortical progenitor cell and lateral GE (LGE) marker, revealed that TOP2A‐expressing cells were more abundant in MGE than the LGE. In the cortex, TOP2B is expressed in cell nuclei in both proliferative (SVZ) and post‐mitotic compartments (intermediate zone and cortical plate) as revealed by comparison with immunostaining for PAX6 and the post‐mitotic neuron marker TBR1. However, co‐expression with KI67 was rare. In the GE, TOP2B was also expressed by proliferative and post‐mitotic compartments. In situ hybridisation studies confirmed these patterns of expression, except that TOP2A mRNA is restricted to cells in the G2/M phase of division. Thus, during early development, TOP2A is likely to have a role in cell proliferation, whereas TOP2B is expressed in post‐mitotic cells and may be important in controlling expression of long genes even at this early stage.
Impact of morbid obesity and bariatric surgery on antioxidant/oxidant balance of the unstimulated and stimulated human saliva
Authors: Knaś Małgorzata , Maciejczyk Mateusz , Sawicka Katarzyna , Hady Hady Razak , Niczyporuk Marek , Ładny Jerzy R. , Matczuk Jan , Waszkiel Danuta , Żendzian‐Piotrowska Małgorzata , Zalewska Anna
Published: November 2015

Objective

There is no study evaluating the influence of morbid obesity and bariatric surgery on antioxidant/oxidant homeostasis of the unstimulated and stimulated human saliva.

Materials and Methods

Salivary flow rate, total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative status index (OSI), the total amount of uric acid (UA), polyphenols (pPh), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), specific activity of peroxidase (Px), as well as malondialdehyde (MDA), and advanced glycation end products (AGE) concentrations were determined in the unstimulated (UWS) and stimulated (SWS) whole saliva of patients with morbid obesity before and after bariatric surgery.

Results

In both UWS and SWS, the total amount of TOS, OSI, SOD2, and MDA was statistically higher in patients with morbid obesity as compared to the healthy controls, as well as significantly lower in the patients treated surgically as compared to the obese patients. The median values of the total amount of TAS, CAT, UA, pPh, and specific activity of Px were significantly reduced in UWS and SWS in patients with morbid obesity as compared to the control group and also statistically elevated in patients after bariatric surgery as compared to the patients with morbid obesity.

Conclusions

In morbid obesity, reduced unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow can be observed. Bariatric surgery restored only unstimulated salivary flow to normal values. Disturbances in oxidant/antioxidant homeostasis may be observed in UWS and SWS of obese patients before and after treatment.
Establishing an essential amino acid profile for maintenance in poultry using deletion method
Authors: Dorigam J. C. P. , Sakomura N. K. , de Lima M. B. , Sarcinelli M. F. , Suzuki R. M.
Published: November 2015

This study aimed to estimate the essential amino acid profile and the ideal ratio for the maintenance of poultry by deletion method. A nitrogen balance (NB) trial was conducted using 198 adult roosters, housed individually in metabolic cages. The treatments were 33 purified diets being 11 diets with an amino acid mixture providing high protein intake of 500 mg N/BWkg0.75 per day, 11 diets providing medium protein intake of 250 mg N/BWkg0.75 per day (in each diet, one amino acid tested was diluted 50%) and 11 diets providing low protein intake of 125 mg N/BWkg0.75 per day (made by omitting the amino acid tested). Each treatment had six replicates. After 48 h of fasting receiving water plus sucrose, the roosters were fed 40 g of the diets by tube once a day for 3 days. The excreta were collected within 72 h after the first feeding. The diets and excreta were analysed for nitrogen content. For each amino acid studied, a linear regression was fitted by NB and amino acid intake (AAI). The maintenance requirements were estimated as the AAI to maintain the NB equal to zero. The daily amino acid requirements for maintenance were estimated to be Lys 11, Met 29, Thr 23, Trp 5, Arg 50, Val 29, His 6, Gly 54, Phe 49, Leu 78 and Ile 21 mg/BWkg0.75 per day. Therefore, the amino acid ratio for maintenance was concluded to be Lys 100, Met 276, Thr 220, Trp 48, Arg 467, Val 275, His 60, Gly 511, Phe 467, Leu 735 and Ile 198% independent of the scale. The essential amino acid profile and the ideal ratio for the maintenance of poultry estimated in this study contributed to improve the factorial model for estimating essential amino acid requirements for poultry.
Is Travel Time to Colonoscopy Associated With Late‐Stage Colorectal Cancer Among Medicare Beneficiaries in Iowa?
Authors: Charlton Mary E. , Matthews Kevin A. , Gaglioti Anne , Bay Camden , McDowell Bradley D. , Ward Marcia M. , Levy Barcey T.
Published: November 2015

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening has been shown to decrease the incidence of late‐stage colorectal cancer, yet a substantial proportion of Americans do not receive screening. Those in rural areas may face barriers to colonoscopy services based on travel time, and previous studies have demonstrated lower screening among rural residents. Our purpose was to assess factors associated with late‐stage CRC, and specifically to determine if longer travel time to colonoscopy was associated with late‐stage CRC among an insured population in Iowa.

Methods

SEER‐Medicare data were used to identify individuals ages 65 to 84 years old diagnosed with CRC in Iowa from 2002 to 2009. The distance between the centroid of the ZIP code of residence and the ZIP code of colonoscopy was computed for each individual who had continuous Medicare fee‐for‐service coverage for a 3‐ to 4‐month period prior to diagnosis, and a professional claim for colonoscopy within that time frame. Demographic characteristics and travel times were compared between those diagnosed with early‐ versus late‐stage CRC. Also, demographic differences between those who had colonoscopy claims identified within 3‐4 months prior to diagnosis (81%) were compared to patients with no colonoscopy claims identified (19%).

Results

A total of 5,792 subjects met inclusion criteria; 31% were diagnosed with early‐stage versus 69% with late‐stage CRC. Those divorced or widowed (vs married) were more likely to be diagnosed with late‐stage CRC (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.06‐1.37). Travel time was not associated with diagnosis of late‐stage CRC.

Discussion

Among a Medicare‐insured population, there was no relationship between travel time to colonoscopy and disease stage at diagnosis. It is likely that factors other than distance to colonoscopy present more pertinent barriers to screening in this insured population. Additional research should be done to determine reasons for nonadherence to screening among those with access to CRC screening services, given that over two‐thirds of these insured individuals were diagnosed with late‐stage CRC.
Hypersexuality, Paraphilic Behaviors, and Gender Dysphoria in Individuals with Klinefelter’s Syndrome
Authors: Fisher Alessandra D. , Castellini Giovanni , Casale Helen , Fanni Egidia , Bandini Elisa , Campone Beatrice , Ferruccio Naika , Maseroli Elisa , Boddi Valentina , Dèttore Davide , Pizzocaro Alessandro , Balercia Giancarlo , Oppo Alessandro , Ricca Valdo , Maggi Mario
Published: November 2015

Introduction

An increased risk of autistic traits in Klinefelter syndrome (KS) has been reported. In addition, some studies have shown an increased incidence of gender dysphoria (GD) and paraphilia in autism spectrum disorder.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of (i) paraphilic fantasies and behaviors; and (ii) GD symptomatology in KS.

Methods and Main Outcomes Measures

A sample of 46 KS individuals and 43 healthy male controls (HC) were evaluated. Subjects were studied by means of several psychometric tests, such as Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) and Reading the Mind in the Eyes Revised (RME) to measure autistic traits, Gender Identity/GD questionnaire (GIDYQ-AA), and Sexual Addiction Screening Test (SAST). In addition, body uneasiness psychopathological symptoms were assessed using Symptom Checklist 90 Revised (SCL-90-R). The presence and frequency of any paraphilic fantasy and behavior was assessed by means of a clinical interview based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition criteria. Finally, all individuals included were assessed by Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised to evaluate intelligence quotient (IQ). Data from a subsample of a previous published series of male to female GD individuals, with the battery of psychological measures useful to provide a psychopathological explanation of GD in KS population available, was also considered.

Results

When compared with HC, KS reported significantly lower total, verbal and performance IQ scores and higher SCL-90 obsession-compulsive symptoms (all P  < 0.001). In line with previously reported findings, KS showed higher autistic traits according with both RME and AQ tests (P  < 0.001). With respect to sexuality, KS showed a significant higher frequency of voyeuristic fantasies during masturbation (52.2% vs. 25.6%) and higher SAST scores (P  = 0.012). A mediation role of obsessive symptoms on the relationship between Klinefelter and SAST was confirmed (unstandardized estimate b  = 2.75, standard error = 0.43 P  < 0.001). Finally, KS individuals showed significantly higher gender dysphoric symptoms than HC (P  = 0.004), which were mediated by the presence of autistic traits (Sobel’s test; P  < 0.05).

Conclusions

KS is associated with hypersexuality, paraphilic behaviors, and GD, which were mediated by obsessive-compulsive and autistic traits.
White matter alterations in narcolepsy patients with cataplexy: tract‐based spatial statistics
Authors: Park Yun K. , Kwon Oh‐Hun , Joo Eun Yeon , Kim Jae‐Hun , Lee Jong M. , Kim Sung T. , Hong Seung B.
Published: November 2015

Functional imaging studies and voxel‐based morphometry analysis of brain magnetic resonance imaging showed abnormalities in the hypothalamus–thalamus–orbitofrontal pathway, demonstrating altered hypocretin pathway in narcolepsy. Those distinct morphometric changes account for problems in wake–sleep control, attention and memory. It also raised the necessity to evaluate white matter changes. To investigate brain white matter alterations in drug‐naïve narcolepsy patients with cataplexy and to explore relationships between white matter changes and patient clinical characteristics, drug‐naïve narcolepsy patients with cataplexy (n = 22) and healthy age‐ and gender‐matched controls (n = 26) were studied. Fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity images were obtained from whole‐brain diffusion tensor imaging, and tract‐based spatial statistics were used to localize white matter abnormalities. Compared with controls, patients showed significant decreases in fractional anisotropy of white matter of the bilateral anterior cingulate, fronto‐orbital area, frontal lobe, anterior limb of the internal capsule and corpus callosum, as well as the left anterior and medial thalamus. Patients and controls showed no differences in mean diffusivity. Among patients, mean diffusivity values of white matter in the bilateral superior frontal gyri, bilateral fronto‐orbital gyri and right superior parietal gyrus were positively correlated with depressive mood. This tract‐based spatial statistics study demonstrated that drug‐naïve patients with narcolepsy had reduced fractional anisotropy of white matter in multiple brain areas and significant relationship between increased mean diffusivity of white matter in frontal/cingulate and depression. It suggests the widespread disruption of white matter integrity and prevalent brain degeneration of frontal lobes according to a depressive symptom in narcolepsy.
Neighbour effects on shrub seedling establishment override climate change impacts in a Mediterranean community
Authors: Rysavy Anne , Seifan Merav , Sternberg Marcelo , Tielbörger Katja
Published: November 2015

Questions

Can theory about plant–plant interactions along climate gradients help us predict how climate change will affect shrub establishment? How does a predicted reduction in rainfall affect the outcome of the interactions between shrub seedlings and herbaceous plants in a dryland ecosystem?

Location

Three field sites along a rainfall gradient and an adjacent experimental site at the Botanical Gardens of Tel Aviv University, Israel.

Method

We measured seedling survival of a dominant shrub species in response to the presence of herbaceous neighbours and to rainfall amount using two approaches: First, we employed a space‐for‐time approach and studied seedling survival along an aridity gradient that was shown to mimic the predicted rainfall changes. Second, we monitored seedling survival in a common garden experiment in which we simulated drought using rainout shelters. In both experiments we contrasted the importance of water availability relative to the presence of herbaceous neighbours and the origin of the shrub seedlings.

Results

Our results showed that neighbours always had a negative effect on shrub seedling survival. In contrast to theoretical predictions, the intensity of competition increased with reduction in water availability. Shrub seedlings originating from drier conditions showed higher survival than seedlings from mesic origin.

Conclusions

These results emphasize the importance of incorporating biotic interactions in studies predicting changes in plant dynamics under climate change. Moreover, plant species growing in ecosystems prone to high rainfall variability showed a greater ability to cope with dry conditions, which suggests more nuanced origin‐specific predictions than suggested by recent climate models.
Geoepidemiology of hepatocellular carcinoma in the island of Crete, Greece. A possible role of pesticides
Authors: Sifaki‐Pistolla Dimitra , Karageorgos Spyridon A. , Koulentaki Mairi , Samonakis Dimitrios , Stratakou Soultana , Digenakis Emmanuel , Kouroumalis Elias
Published: November 2015

Background & Aims

Geoepidemiological data of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are lacking. Crete has a genetically homogeneous population and is suitable for studies to identify a possible contribution of environmental factors in HCC.

Methods

Databases for HCC (316 cases), hepatitis B virus (HBV) (633) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) (392), constructed over the past 20 years in our Unit, were used. Data included place of birth and place of residence for the last 15 years. Hellenic Statistical Authority provided population statistics from 1980 to 2014. Time‐spatial methods were applied in Gis‐ArcMap 10 software. Spatial autocorrelation tests (Moran's index) detected differences between the spatial distribution to place of residence. Spatial density maps were created. Kriging Interpolation was applied, to produce prediction maps of HCC.

Results

Hepatitis C virus appears in areas of high prevalence while HBV is uniformly distributed. HCC is more prevalent in Eastern Crete. A spatial autocorrelation between HCC and either HCV (Moran's I = 0.88, P < 0.001) or HBV (I = 0.84, P < 0.02) was found as expected. However, there is a discrepancy in the South East of Crete, where a higher prevalence of HCC than expected was observed. This is an area where extensive use of pesticides in large green houses is practiced.

Conclusions

Hepatocellular carcinoma is associated with the dispersion of HCV and HBVs. In an area with widespread use of pesticides, a higher than expected spatial distribution of HCC was detected.
The UV signature of carbon in the solar system
Authors: Hendrix Amanda R. , Vilas Faith , Li Jian‐Yang
Published: November 2015

Carbon compounds are ubiquitous in the solar system but are challenging to study using remote sensing due to the mostly bland spectral nature of these species in the traditional visible‐near‐infrared regime. In contrast, carbonaceous species are spectrally active in the ultraviolet (UV) but have largely not been considered for studies of solar system surfaces. We compile existing UV data of carbon compounds—well‐studied in contemplation of the ISM extinction “bump”—to review trends in UV spectral behavior. Thermal and/or irradiation processing of carbon species results in the loss of H and ultimately graphitization. Graphitization is shown to produce distinct spectral features in the UV, which are predicted to be more readily detected in the inner solar system, whereas outer solar system bodies are expected to be more dominated by less‐processed carbon compounds. Throughout the solar system, we can thus consider a “carbon continuum” where the more evolved carbons in the inner solar system exhibit a stronger UV absorption feature and associated far‐UV rise. We compare carbon spectral models with spacecraft data of two bodies from different points in the carbon continuum, Ceres and Iapetus. We find that the apparent strong far‐UV upturn in Ceres’ spectrum (in the 150–200 nm range) can be explained by an anthracite‐like species while Iapetus’ spectrum features a reflectance peak consistent with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. We make generalized predictions for UV spectral characteristics in other regions of the solar system.
Class Structure and the US Personal Income Distribution, 1918–2012
Authors: Mohun Simon
Published: November 2015

Quantitative measures of class, by percentile position and income share, are constructed using U.S. personal income distribution tax‐unit data from 1918 to 2012. Three classes are identified: ‘capitalists’ with sufficient non‐labour income that they do not need an employment contract (although typically they are in employment); ‘managers’, with insufficient non‐labour income to meet that threshold; and ‘workers’ with no supervisory responsibilities in employment. Class measures of inequality show that inequality was very much greater by 2010‐11 than at any time since 1918. The paper concludes with how causal explanations might be constructed and how the data might be used.
Dual RNA‐seq reveals Meloidogyne graminicola transcriptome and candidate effectors during the interaction with rice plants
Authors: Petitot Anne‐Sophie , Dereeper Alexis , Agbessi Mawusse , Da Silva Corinne , Guy Julie , Ardisson Morgane , Fernandez Diana
Published: November 2015

Root‐knot nematodes secrete proteinaceous effectors into plant tissues to facilitate infection by suppressing host defences and reprogramming the host metabolism to their benefit. Meloidogyne graminicola is a major pest of rice (Oryza sativa) in Asia and Latin America, causing important crop losses. The goal of this study was to identify M. graminicola pathogenicity genes expressed during the plant–nematode interaction. Using the dual RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) strategy, we generated transcriptomic data of M. graminicola samples covering the pre‐parasitic J2 stage and five parasitic stages in rice plants, from the parasitic J2 to the adult female. In the absence of a reference genome, a de novo M. graminicola transcriptome of 66 396 contigs was obtained from those reads that were not mapped on the rice genome. Gene expression profiling across the M. graminicola life cycle revealed key genes involved in nematode development and provided insights into the genes putatively associated with parasitism. The development of a ‘secreted protein prediction’ pipeline revealed a typical set of proteins secreted by nematodes, as well as a large number of cysteine‐rich proteins and putative nuclear proteins. Combined with expression data, this pipeline enabled the identification of 15 putative effector genes, including two homologues of well‐characterized effectors from cyst nematodes (CLE‐like and VAP1) and a metallothionein. The localization of gene expression was assessed by in situ hybridization for a subset of candidates. All of these data represent important molecular resources for the elucidation of M. graminicola biology and for the selection of potential targets for the development of novel control strategies for this nematode species.
Blood‐brain barrier damage in vascular dementia
Authors: Ueno Masaki , Chiba Yoichi , Matsumoto Koichi , Murakami Ryuta , Fujihara Ryuji , Kawauchi Machi , Miyanaka Hiroshi , Nakagawa Toshitaka
Published: November 2015

New findings on flow or drainage pathways of brain interstitial fluid and cerebrospinal fluid have been made. The interstitial fluid flow has an effect on the passage of blood‐borne substances in the brain parenchyma, especially in areas near blood‐brain barrier (BBB)‐free regions. Actually, blood‐borne substances can be transferred in areas with intact BBB function, such as the hippocampus, the corpus callosum, periventricular areas, and medial portions of the amygdala, presumably through leaky vessels in the subfornical organs or the choroid plexus. Increasing evidence indicates that dysfunction of the BBB function may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of vascular dementia. Accordingly, we have examined which insults seen in patients suffering from vascular dementia have an effect on the BBB using experimental animal models exhibiting some phenotypes of vascular dementia. The BBB in the hippocampus was clearly deteriorated in Mongolian gerbils exposed to acute ischemia followed by reperfusion and also in stroke‐prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP) showing hypertension. The BBB in the corpus callosum was clearly deteriorated in Wistar rats with permanent ligation of the bilateral common carotid arteries showing chronic hypoperfusion. The BBB in the hippocampus and the olfactory bulb was mildly deteriorated in aged senescence accelerated prone mice (SAMP8) showing cognitive dysfunction. The BBB in the hippocampus was mildly deteriorated in aged animals with hydrocephalus. Mild endothelial damage was seen in hyperglycemic db/db mice. In addition, mRNA expression of osteopontin, matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13), and CD36 was increased in vessels showing BBB damage in hypertensive SHRSP. As osteopontin, MMP‐13 and CD36 are known to be related to brain injury and amyloid β accumulation or clearance, BBB damage followed by increased gene expression of these molecules not only contributes to the pathogenesis of vascular dementia, but also bridges the gap between vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Primary central nervous system lymphomas and related diseases: Pathological characteristics and discussion of the differential diagnosis
Authors: Sugita Yasuo , Muta Hiroko , Ohshima Koichi , Morioka Motohiro , Tsukamoto Yoshihiro , Takahashi Hitoshi , Kakita Akiyoshi
Published: November 2015

Although primary diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas of the CNS are designated as primary CNS lymphomas according to the WHO Classification of Tumours of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissue in 2008, a variety of other lymphomas (Burkitt lymphomas, EBV‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma of the elderly) and related diseases (lymphomatoid granulomatosis) that are also found in the CNS have been spotlighted in recent years. The histopathology of primary CNS Burkitt lymphomas mimics that of primary diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas of the CNS after steroid administration. Therefore, for correct diagnosis of the involved lymphoma, comprehensive fluorescent in situ hybridization analysis for c‐MYC and BCL2 is recommended in all primary CNS lymphoma cases with aggressive clinical course, multifocal involvement of the CNS, and a high proliferation index. The pathological characteristics of primary CNS EBV‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma of the elderly have similarities with those of the latency phenotype III, EBV lymphoproliferative disorders that arise in the setting of immunodeficiency. These age‐related lymphomas usually occur in elderly immunocompetent patients, and the incidence of this disease was estimated to range from 4.0% to 13.6% of all primary CNS lymphomas. Shorter overall survival has been reported for patients with this disease. Lymphomatoid granulomatosis (LYG) is a systemic, EBV‐driven, angiocentric and angiodestructive lymphoproliferative disorder. Primary LYG that shows distinct clinicopathological features compared with systemic LYG was recently reported. Finally, this review focuses on the relationship between primary CNS lymphomas and demyelinating diseases, and the concomitant use of intraoperative cytology and frozen sections that are helpful in rapid intraoperative diagnosis.
Perceiving Necessity
Authors: Legg Catherine , Franklin James
Published: November 2015

In many diagrams one seems to perceive necessity – one sees not only that something is so, but that it must be so. That conflicts with a certain empiricism largely taken for granted in contemporary philosophy, which believes perception is not capable of such feats. The reason for this belief is often thought well‐summarized in Hume's maxim: ‘there are no necessary connections between distinct existences’. It is also thought that even if there were such necessities, perception is too passive or localized a faculty to register them. We defend the perception of necessity against such Humeanism, drawing on examples from mathematics.
Medication Adherence in Children and Adolescents with Acne Vulgaris in Medicaid: A Retrospective Study Analysis
Authors: Hester Chloe , Park Chanhyun , Chung Janice , Balkrishnan Rajesh , Feldman Steven , Chang Jongwha
Published: November 2015

Objectives

The objectives of the study were to evaluate and compare medication adherence associated with acne drugs in children and adolescents with acne vulgaris.

Methods

Data from MarketScan Medicaid enrollees with acne vulgaris were included if patients were ages 6 to 17 years on the index date, had at least one acne‐related medication claim, and were enrolled in Medicaid during January 2004 to December 2007. The adherence rate was measured using the medication possession ratio. The medication possession ratio was dichotomized to categorize patients as adherent (≥0.8) or nonadherent (<0.8). Multivariate logistic regressions were used for analyses of the medication possession ratio.

Results

Of 20,039 eligible patients, 2,860 patients were children and 17,179 patients were adolescent. Approximately 6.96% of children and 16.75% of adolescents had at least one acne‐related medication refill. The mean adherence rate to acne medication was significantly different between children (0.22) and adolescents (0.32). In addition, only 3.71% of children were adherent to acne medication while 13.38% of adolescents were adherent. After controlling for covariates, adolescents were 2.06 times more likely to get an acne‐related medication refilled and were 2.40 times more likely to be adherent to acne‐related medication. The analyses also showed that acne‐related medication adherence was associated with the patient's characteristics and acne medication type.

Conclusion

Neither patient population was considered adherent to acne‐related medications, nor was there a significant difference between the two patient populations. This study also revealed that medication type is a contributing factor towards adherence. Health care providers should strive to educate patients on the importance of medication adherence.
Fatal Outcome from Brain Vascular Lesions in a Neonate with Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome
Authors: Ocampo‐Garza Jorge , Salas‐Alanís Julio C. , Ponce‐Camacho Marco A. , Rosales‐Solis Gloria M. , Miranda Maldonado Ivett , Elizondo‐Riojas Guillermo , Villanueva‐Nava Diana , Barbosa‐Quintana Oralia , Gonzalez Colunga Karla , Ocampo‐Candiani Jorge
Published: November 2015

The most common cause of death in blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome is gastrointestinal bleeding. Here we present a case of central nervous system bleeding that resulted in death.
Early habituation of maize (Zea mays) suspension‐cultured cells to 2,6‐dichlorobenzonitrile is associated with the enhancement of antioxidant status
Authors: Largo‐Gosens Asier , Encina Antonio , de Castro María , Mélida Hugo , Acebes José L. , García‐Angulo Penélope , Álvarez Jesús M.
Published: November 2015

The cellulose biosynthesis inhibitor 2,6‐dichlorobenzonitrile (DCB) has been widely used to gain insights into cell wall composition and architecture. Studies of changes during early habituation to DCB can provide information on mechanisms that allow tolerance/habituation to DCB. In this context, maize‐cultured cells with a reduced amount of cellulose (∼20%) were obtained by stepwise habituation to low DCB concentrations. The results reported here attempt to elucidate the putative role of an antioxidant strategy during incipient habituation. The short‐term exposure to DCB of non‐habituated maize‐cultured cells induced a substantial increase in oxidative damage. Concomitantly, short‐term treated cells presented an increase in class III peroxidase and glutathione S‐transferase activities and total glutathione content. Maize cells habituated to 0.3–1 µM DCB (incipient habituation) were characterized by a reduction in the relative cell growth rate, an enhancement of ascorbate peroxidase and class III peroxidase activities, and a net increment in total glutathione content. Moreover, these cell lines showed increased levels of glutathione S‐transferase activity. Changes in antioxidant/conjugation status enabled 0.3 and 0.5 µM DCB‐habituated cells to control lipid peroxidation levels, but this was not the case of maize cells habituated to 1 μM DCB, which despite showing an increased antioxidant capacity were not capable of reducing the oxidative damage to control levels. The results reported here confirm that exposure and incipient habituation of maize cells to DCB are associated with an enhancement in antioxidant/conjugation activities which could play a role in incipient DCB habituation of maize‐cultured cells.
Reference conditions and historical changes in an unharvested ponderosa pine stand on sedimentary soil
Authors: Schneider Eryn E. , Sánchez Meador Andrew J. , Covington William W.
Published: November 2015

Much of the previous research on spatial reference conditions in dry frequent fire pine forests have come from stand‐level patterns under regionally average ecosystem conditions (e.g. soil type and precipitation). We evaluated the 1883 reference conditions of an uncut ponderosa pine stand representing a far end of the range of variability in terms of regionally unusual environmental conditions. Using a forest reconstruction model, univariate and bivariate Ripley'sKfunctions, and regression analysis, we determined 1883 structural and spatial reference conditions, and compared those to the contemporary (2010) stand. Historical stand density was 77 trees/ha with a basal area of 8.0 m2/ha. Reference spatial patterns were significantly aggregated from 1 to 2 m and randomly distributed at distances greater than 2 m. Nearly 40% of the reconstructed trees were individuals, the average patch size was 2.9 trees, and the largest patch had 7 members. The contemporary stand had considerably greater densities and basal area than historical conditions and showed aggregation at all distances. Bivariate spatial analysis indicated attraction of post‐settlement recruitment to live pre‐settlement trees from 1 to 6 m and no association at distances greater than 6 m. We speculate that the historically random tree pattern is the product of a variety of factors including soil parent material, climate, and more homogeneous resource partitioning.
Production of greenhouse‐grown biocrust mosses and associated cyanobacteria to rehabilitate dryland soil function
Authors: Antoninka Anita , Bowker Matthew A. , Reed Sasha C. , Doherty Kyle
Published: November 2015

Mosses are an often‐overlooked component of dryland ecosystems, yet they are common members of biological soil crust communities (biocrusts) and provide key ecosystem services, including soil stabilization, water retention, carbon fixation, and housing of N2 fixing cyanobacteria. Mosses are able to survive long dry periods, respond rapidly to precipitation, and reproduce vegetatively. With these qualities, dryland mosses have the potential to be an excellent dryland restoration material. Unfortunately, dryland mosses are often slow growing in nature, and ex situ cultivation methods are needed to enhance their utility. Our goal was to determine how to rapidly produce, vegetatively, Syntrichia caninervis and S. ruralis, common and abundant moss species in drylands of North America and elsewhere, in a greenhouse. We manipulated the length of hydration on a weekly schedule (5, 4, 3, or 2 days continuous hydration per week), crossed with fertilization (once at the beginning, monthly, biweekly, or not at all). Moss biomass increased sixfold for both species in 4 months, an increase that would require years under dryland field conditions. Both moss species preferred short hydration and monthly fertilizer. Remarkably, we also unintentionally cultured a variety of other important biocrust organisms, including cyanobacteria and lichens. In only 6 months, we produced functionally mature biocrusts, as evidenced by high productivity and ecosystem‐relevant levels of N2 fixation. Our results suggest that biocrust mosses might be the ideal candidate for biocrust cultivation for restoration purposes. With optimization, these methods are the first step in developing a moss‐based biocrust rehabilitation technology.
Effect of treatment with inhaled corticosteroid on serum periostin levels in asthma
Authors: Hoshino Makoto , Ohtawa Junichi , Akitsu Kenta
Published: November 2015

Background and objective

Periostin is a biomarker of eosinophilic airway inflammation and may contribute to airway remodeling in asthma. The anti‐inflammatory activity of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) for asthma control is widely recognized. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of ICS on serum periostin levels and its relationships to inflammation and airway geometry.

Methods

Forty‐two healthy controls and 20 patients with steroid‐naïve asthma before and after treatment with fluticasone propionate (800 μg/day for 16 weeks) were examined. Serum periostin, lung function and inflammatory cell counts in sputum were measured. Airway dimensions were determined by quantitative computed tomography (total area of the airway (Ao), wall area (WA), wall thickness (T) and percentage wall area (WA%) ).

Results

Serum periostin concentrations were significantly higher in patients with asthma than in controls. Periostin levels were correlated with airway wall thickness and sputum eosinophilia and inversely correlated with airflow limitation in asthma. ICS significantly decreased serum periostin (P < 0.01), decreased WA corrected for body surface area (WA/BSA, P < 0.05), T/√BSA (P < 0.01) and WA% (P < 0.01), reduced the percentage of sputum eosinophils (P < 0.01) and improved airflow limitation. The decrease in serum periostin levels was associated with an increased per cent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (r = −0.64, P < 0.01), decreased WA/BSA (r = 0.46, P < 0.05) and decreased sputum eosinophils (r = 0.71, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Serum periostin levels respond partially to ICS and may reflect a reduction in airway inflammation and wall thickening in asthma.
Model Checking for Parametric Single-index Models: A Dimension Reduction Model-Adaptive Approach
Authors: Guo Xu , Wang Tao , Zhu Lixing
Published: November 2015

Local smoothing testing based on multivariate non-parametric regression estimation is one of the main model checking methodologies in the literature. However, the relevant tests suffer from the typical curse of dimensionality, resulting in slow rates of convergence to their limits under the null hypothesis and less deviation from the null hypothesis under alternative hypotheses. This problem prevents tests from maintaining the level of significance well and makes tests less sensitive to alternative hypotheses. In the paper, a model adaptation concept in lack-of-fit testing is introduced and a dimension reduction model-adaptive test procedure is proposed for parametric single-index models. The test behaves like a local smoothing test, as if the model were univariate. It is consistent against any global alternative hypothesis and can detect local alternative hypotheses distinct from the null hypothesis at a fast rate that existing local smoothing tests can achieve only when the model is univariate. Simulations are conducted to examine the performance of our methodology. An analysis of real data is shown for illustration. The method can be readily extended to global smoothing methodology and other testing problems.
Infants’ Style of Emotion Regulation with Their Mothers and Fathers: Concordance between Parents and the Contribution of Father–Infant Interaction Quality
Authors: Martins Eva Costa , Soares Isabel , Martins Carla , Osório Ana
Published: November 2015

The concordance between infants’ emotion regulation styles with different partners has not been consistently analysed nor have the relational correlates of such potential across‐partners similarities. We explored these issues by assessing 10‐month‐olds’ (59.6 percent boys) emotion regulation styles separately with mother and father and by evaluating mother–infant and father–infant interaction quality. The sample consisted of 50 low‐risk families. Two home visits were conducted and similar procedures were adopted for each visit. Parent–infant interaction quality was assessed during daily routines and during free play; both parents independently completed a temperament questionnaire. Infant emotion regulation was assessed in a semi‐structured problem‐solving task: adaptive vs. maladaptive (under and over‐regulation) styles. As predicted, infants’ emotion regulation with their mothers and fathers were related. However, only father–infant interaction quality predicted infants’ emotion regulation concordance: lower interaction quality was associated with maladaptive concordance compared with non‐concordance and higher interaction quality was associated with adaptive concordance compared with non‐concordance. Our results support the claim that by the end of the first year of life, infants use similar emotion regulation styles with mother and father and point to father–infant interaction as an important correlate of emotion regulation across‐parents.
Dynamics of soil chemical properties in shifting cultivation systems in the tropics: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Ribeiro Filho A. A. , Adams C. , Manfredini S. , Aguilar R. , Neves W. A.
Published: November 2015

The forest cultivation system (slash‐and‐burn or shifting cultivation) has contributed to the transformation of social systems since the early Neolithic period. Despite being considered by conservationists and public policymakers as a system of low productivity that generates environmental degradation and contributes to the maintenance of rural poverty, the shifting cultivation system (SCS) is being declared a practice that is highly ecologically and economically efficient. Such dichotomy of opinions is the consequence of the disparate results of studies assessing the effects of SCS on soil properties of rainforests throughout the last three decades. To circumvent this apparent inconsistency, we used a systematic quantitative review method (meta‐analysis), with the objective of integrating and synthesizing the data published in the literature to assess the overall effects of SCS on soil chemical properties. Four variables traditionally assessed in primary studies were chosen for the meta‐analyses: pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), total carbon (Total C) and total nitrogen (Total N). Our results show that pH values increase under SCS conditions, while Total N and C content are significantly reduced under SCS. No significant impacts are observed on CEC. Our results on pH and CEC support the position from researchers who argue for the sustainability of SCS and highlight the importance of evaluating the soil system as a soil/vegetation complex. Also, our results indicate that soil chemical properties under SCS scenarios are better conserved and more readily recoverable, provided there is a rather longer fallow period than has been traditionally employed.
Cystic echinococcosis in South America: systematic review of species and genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato in humans and natural domestic hosts
Authors: Cucher Marcela Alejandra , Macchiaroli Natalia , Baldi Germán , Camicia Federico , Prada Laura , Maldonado Lucas , Avila Héctor Gabriel , Fox Adolfo , Gutiérrez Ariana , Negro Perla , López Raúl , Jensen Oscar , Rosenzvit Mara , Kamenetzky Laura
Published: November 2015

Objective

To systematically review publications on Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato species/genotypes reported in domestic intermediate and definitive hosts in South America and in human cases worldwide, taking into account those articles where DNA sequencing was performed; and to analyse the density of each type of livestock that can act as intermediate host, and features of medical importance such as cyst organ location.

Methods

Literature search in numerous databases. We included only articles where samples were genotyped by sequencing since to date it is the most accurate method to unambiguously identify all E. granulosus s. l. genotypes. Also, we report new E. granulosus s. l. samples from Argentina and Uruguay analysed by sequencing of cox1 gene.

Results

In South America, five countries have cystic echinococcosis cases for which sequencing data are available: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru and Uruguay, adding up 1534 cases. E. granulosus s. s. (G1) accounts for most of the global burden of human and livestock cases. Also, E. canadensis (G6) plays a significant role in human cystic echinococcosis. Likewise, worldwide analysis of human cases showed that 72.9% are caused by E. granulosus s. s. (G1) and 12.2% and 9.6% by E. canadensis G6 and G7, respectively.

Conclusions

E. granulosus s. s. (G1) accounts for most of the global burden followed by E. canadensis (G6 and G7) in South America and worldwide. This information should be taken into account to suit local cystic echinococcosis control and prevention programmes according to each molecular epidemiological situation.