bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a new score for predicting functional outcome of neurocritically ill patients: The INCNS score
Authors: Gao Qiong , Yuan Fang , Yang Xi‐Ai , Zhu Ji‐Wen , Song Lu , Bi Li‐Jie , Jiao Ze‐Yu , Kang Xiao‐Gang , Yang Fang , Jiang Wen
Published: April 2019

Aims

To develop and validate a novel score for prediction of 3‐month functional outcome in neurocritically ill patients.

Methods

The development of the novel score was based on two widely used scores for general critical illnesses (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II, APACHE II; Simplified Acute Physiology Score II, SAPS II) and consideration of the characteristics of neurocritical illness. Data from consecutive patients admitted to neurological ICU (N‐ICU) between January 2013 and June 2016 were used for the validation. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was used to evaluate 3‐month functional outcomes. APACHE II scores, SAPS II scores, and our novel scores at 24 hours and 72 hours in N‐ICU were obtained. We compared the prognostic performance of our score with APACHE II and SAPS II.

Results

We developed a 44‐point scoring system named the INCNS score, and it includes 19 items which were categorized into five parts: inflammation (I), nutrition (N), consciousness (C), neurological function (N), and systemic function (S). We validated the INCNS score with a cohort of 941 N‐ICU patients. The 72‐hours INCNS score achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.828 (95% CI: 0.802‐0.854), and the 24‐hours INCNS score achieved an AUC of 0.788 (95% CI: 0.759‐0.817). The INCNS score exhibited significantly better discriminative and prognostic performance than APACHE II and SAPS II at both 24 hours and 72 hours in N‐ICU.

Conclusion

We developed an INCNS score with superior predictive power for functional outcome of neurocritically ill patients.
Fluorine‐contained hydroxyapatite suppresses bone resorption through inhibiting osteoclasts differentiation and function in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Liu Shibo , Zhou Hao , Liu Hanghang , Ji Huanzhong , Fei Wei , Luo En
Published: April 2019

Objectives

Fluorine, an organic trace element, has been shown to unfavourably effect osteoclasts function at a low dose. Use of hydroxyapatite (HA) has been effective in exploring its roles in promoting bone repair. In this study, we used HA modified with fluorine to investigate whether it could influence osteoclastic activity in vitro and ovariectomy‐induced osteoclasts hyperfunction in vivo.

Materials and methods

Fluorohydroxyapatite (FHA) was obtained and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Osteoclasts proliferation and apoptosis treated with FHA were assessed by MTT and TUNEL assay. SEM, F‐actin, TRAP activity and bone resorption experiment were performed to determine the influence of FHA on osteoclasts differentiation and function. Moreover, HA and FHA were implanted into ovariectomized osteoporotic and sham surgery rats. Histology and Micro‐CT were examined for further verification.

Results

Fluorine released from FHA slowly and sustainably. FHA hampered osteoclasts proliferation, promoted osteoclasts apoptosis, suppressed osteoclasts differentiation and function. Experiments in vivo validated that FHA participation brought about an inhibitory effect on osteoclasts hyperfunction and less bone absorption.

Conclusion

The results indicated that FHA served as an efficient regulator to attenuate osteoclasts formation and function and was proposed as a candidature for bone tissue engineering applications.
Eligibility of patients with type 2 diabetes for sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor cardiovascular outcomes trials: An assessment using the Diabetes Collaborative Registry
Authors: Wittbrodt Eric , Chamberlain David , Arnold Suzanne V. , Tang Fengming , Kosiborod Mikhail
Published: April 2019

Generalizability of findings from cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs) to patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in clinical practice is unknown. We assessed the proportions of patients in the Diabetes Collaborative Registry who would have met enrolment criteria for pivotal CVOTs of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2is): EMPA‐REG OUTCOME, CANVAS, DECLARE and VERTIS CV. In 172 643 patients, mean [standard deviation (SD)] age and HbA1c were 68.1 (11.8) years and 7.8% (2.2), respectively; 56.8% of patients were men and SGLT‐2i use was 4.4%. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) prevalence was 64.3% and mean 10‐year ASCVD risk was 28.6% in patients without ASCVD. Proportions of patients eligible for CVOTs ranged from 26% (EMPA‐REG OUTCOME) to 44% (DECLARE); 48% of patients were ineligible for all CVOTs. Mean (SD) ASCVD risk was 25.4% (22.6), 32.1% (20.6) and 37.7% (19.4) in patients eligible for no, one or two CVOTs, respectively. SGLT‐2i use was low in patients eligible for no CVOTs (3.5%) and at least one CVOT (5.2%). In conclusion, applicability of CVOT results to patients with T2D in clinical practice varies based on trial eligibility criteria.
Type 2 diabetes and the kidney: Insights from cardiovascular outcome trials
Authors: Giugliano Dario , De Nicola Luca , Maiorino Maria Ida , Bellastella Giuseppe , Esposito Katherine
Published: April 2019

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) still remains a progressive condition that is associated with higher risk of end‐stage kidney disease and significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Twelve cardiovascular outcome trials in type 2 diabetes (T2D) have been published to date. Most trials with dipeptidyl‐peptidase inhibitors (SAVOR‐TIMI 53 with saxagliptin, EXAMINE with alogliptin, TECOS with sitagliptin, and CARMELINA with linagliptin) and with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) (ELIXA with lixisenatide, LEADER with liraglutide, SUSTAIN‐6 with semaglutide, EXCSEL with exenatide once‐weekly, and HARMONY with albiglutide) pointed towards reduced albuminuria, which is a surrogate endpoint possibly heralding renal function preservation. The three trials with sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2is) (empagliflozin, canagliflozin and dapagliflozin) also showed a salutary effect on long‐term estimated glomerular filtration rate, suggesting that SGLT‐2is are more effective at mitigating loss of kidney function than incretin‐based therapies; moreover, SGLT‐2is also have the advantage of plausible haemodynamic mechanisms for improved renal outcomes. Despite some residual limitations linked to differences in study populations and patient characteristics, the cardiorenal protective actions of SGLT‐2is, and to a lesser extent some GLP‐1RAs, make them favourable medications for patients with T2D at increased cardiorenal risk. There is room for optimism that their use may change the paradigm of the ineluctable progression of DKD.
The application of appropriate use criteria for transthoracic echocardiography in a cardiac intensive care unit
Authors: Salik Jonathan R. , Sen Sounok , Picard Michael H. , Weiner Rory B. , Dudzinski David M.
Published: April 2019

Background

Appropriate use criteria (AUC) represent an important mechanism by which to promote the rational utilization of healthcare resources. No study to date has been conducted assessing the applicability of current AUC to transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs) performed in a cardiac intensive care unit (CICU). We analyzed 2 years of consecutive TTEs performed in a CICU at a quaternary‐care academic medical center, hypothesizing that current AUC may not adequately describe the role of TTE in a modern CICU.

Methods

Indications for TTEs were independently classified by two investigators in accordance with 2011 AUC. If investigators were unable to assign an AUC classification to a given study, it was deemed to be unclassifiable. Disagreements between investigators were resolved by consensus. Cases in which consensus could not be reached underwent definitive adjudication by a third investigator.

Results

Of the 826 TTEs, 619 TTEs were classified as appropriate (74.9%, CI 71.8%–77.9%), 12 as uncertain (1.5%, CI 0.75%–2.5%), 21 as rarely appropriate (2.5%, CI 1.6%–3.9%), and 174 were unable to be classified (21.1%, CI 18.3%–24.0%). The most common unclassifiable indication was “initial evaluation of cardiac structure or function after cardiac arrest of unknown etiology” (n = 101).

Conclusion

Current AUC for TTEs may not adequately address the complexity of clinical cases encountered in the CICU. In our study of 826 consecutive TTEs, 21.1% were unable to be classified, reflecting the difficulty in applying AUC to this unique clinical environment. Further studies are therefore needed to better delineate the appropriateness of TTEs performed in the CICU.
The relation of left ventricular geometry to left ventricular outflow tract shape and stroke volume index calculations
Authors: Lavine Steven J. , Obeng George B.
Published: April 2019

Background

Stroke volume (SV) and aortic valve area calculations require the left ventricular (LV) outflow tract (LVOT) or aortic annular area calculations that involve squaring the respective diameters. Area calculation errors became evident with transcatheter aortic valve replacement where areas were underestimated due to an elliptical annulus. We hypothesized that LVOT and annular shape are more elliptical in patients with greater relative LV wall thickness (RWT) leading to underestimation of SV index using 2D Doppler echocardiography.

Methods

We studied 203 consecutive patients referred to an outpatient noninvasive laboratory for Doppler echocardiograms which included acceptable 3‐dimensional images. 3‐dimensional assessment of the LVOT at 3–5 mm from the valve insertion, at the site of valve insertion, and at the sinus of Valsalva (SOV) was performed with assessment of the minor axis (MN), major axis (MJ), and areas at mid‐systole. SV index was calculated from LVOT and annular diameters obtained from 2‐dimensional echo and from 3‐dimensional LVOT areas.

Results

An inverse relation of RWT with MN/MJ at mid‐systole for the LVOT (r = 0.5812, P < 0.0001) and annulus (r = 0.6865, P < 0.0001) was noted. LVOT and annulus areas were similar among groups at mid‐systole. SV index calculated from 2D LVOT dimensions was significantly smaller than using 3D LVOT areas (35.6 ± 8.9 vs 53.6 ± 16.1 mL, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

There is an inverse relation between MN/MJ and RWT at the LVOT and aortic annulus despite the LVOT and annular areas being similar across most geometries resulting in SV index underestimation calculated using LVOT diameters vs 3D LVOT areas.
Prenatal diagnosis of left pulmonary artery sling and review of literature
Authors: Sezer Salim , Acar Deniz Kanber , Ekiz Ali , Kaya Başak , Bornaun Helen , Aslan Halil
Published: April 2019

Left pulmonary artery sling (LPAS) is a very rare cause of large airway compression. In LPAS, the left pulmonary artery (LPA) arises from the proximal right pulmonary artery, coursing over the right mainstem bronchus, posterior to the trachea and anterior to the esophagus prior to reaching the left hilum. The aberrant course of the LPA results in anatomical obstruction of the right mainstem bronchus, the trachea, or both. Only a few reports present the prenatal features of LPAS. In this report, we present the prenatal diagnosis of a case of LPAS in one of a set of identical twins in which the only feature was that of an abnormal course of the LPA on 3‐vessel tracheal view. The cross‐sectional view at the level of three vessels which includes both pulmonary artery branches is useful to detect this abnormality. Color and power Doppler may be helpful as well.
New Fathers’ Perceptions of Dyadic Adjustment: The Roles of Maternal Gatekeeping and Coparenting Closeness
Authors: Olsavsky Anna L. , Yan Jia , Schoppe‐Sullivan Sarah J. , Kamp Dush Claire M.
Published: April 2019

Although the association between maternal gatekeeping and relationship functioning has been explored by a few studies, none of these have focused on fathers’ perceptions of these constructs. Given that today's new fathers are challenged by elevated expectations for active parenting and coparenting even as most new mothers remain primary caregivers of infant children, this is a critical omission. This study examined the associations between new fathers’ perceptions of maternal gatekeeping and change in dyadic adjustment as mediated through coparenting closeness. Maternal gatekeeping was reported by 182 fathers at 3 months postpartum, coparenting closeness was reported at 3 and 6 months postpartum, and dyadic adjustment was reported during the third trimester of pregnancy and at 9 months postpartum. Fathers’ perceptions of relative change in coparenting closeness from 3 to 6 months mediated associations between fathers’ perceptions of maternal gatekeeping at 3 months and relative change in dyadic adjustment from the third trimester to 9 months postpartum. In particular, findings indicate that greater perceived maternal gate opening was associated with higher levels of dyadic adjustment through higher levels of coparenting closeness, whereas greater perceived maternal gate closing was associated with lower levels of dyadic adjustment through lower levels of coparenting closeness. This study highlights the importance of studying fathers in the context of the family system and the role of the coparenting relationship at the transition to parenthood in couple relationship functioning.
Perceptions of Cooking Education among High School Students
Authors: Hansen Sydney , Drake Teresa , Vollmer Rachel L.
Published: April 2019

Cooking is a basic life skill and promotes a more healthful diet. However, many young adults lack cooking confidence. Eleven focus groups with 71 total participants were conducted to understand perceptions of cooking education among high school students. Students who had taken cooking classes displayed cooking confidence, developed additional non‐cooking‐related skills, and valued the courses. Students believed cooking is a life skill, would like to learn more skills and about cultural cuisines, and thought cooking classes should be offered, but not required for all high school students. Family and Consumer Sciences teachers and school administrators could use the results in advocating for cooking classes.
The association between pharmacy refill-adherence metrics and healthcare utilisation: a prospective cohort study of older hypertensive adults
Authors: Dillon Paul , Smith Susan M , Gallagher Paul , Cousins Gráinne
Published: April 2019

Aims

Methods that enable targeting and tailoring of adherence interventions may facilitate implementation in clinical settings. We aimed to determine whether community pharmacy refill-adherence metrics are useful to identify patients at higher risk of healthcare utilisation due to low antihypertensive adherence, who may benefit from an adherence intervention.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study, recruiting participants (n = 905) from 106 community pharmacies across the Republic of Ireland. Participants completed a structured interview at baseline and 12 months. Antihypertensive medication adherence was evaluated from linked pharmacy records using group-based trajectory modelling (GBTM) and proportion of days covered (PDC). Healthcare utilisation included self-reported number of hospital visits (emergency department visits and inpatient admissions) and general practitioner (GP) visits, over a 6-month period. Separate regression models were used to estimate the association between adherence and number of hospital/GP visits. The relative statistical fit of each model using different adherence metrics was determined using the Bayesian information criterion (BIC).

Results

For the number of hospital visits, significant associations were observed only for PDC but not for GBTM. Each 10% increase in refill-adherence by PDC was significantly associated with a 16% lower rate of hospital visits (adjusted incidence rate ratio 0.84, 95% CI 0.72–0.98, P = 0.036). Poorer adherence using both measures was associated with higher GP visits. Improvements in BIC favoured models using PDC.

Conclusions

Medication refill-adherence, measured using PDC in community pharmacy settings, could be used to recognise poor antihypertensive adherence to enable effective targeting of clinical interventions to improve hypertension management and outcomes.
The Ambiguity of Return Migration: Prolonged Crisis and Uncertainty in the Life Strategies of Young Romanian and Latvian Returnees
Authors: Apsite‐Berina Elina , Manea Mădălina‐Elena , Berzins Maris
Published: April 2019

Drawing on qualitative research, this study endeavours to identify the determinants of return migration of young Romanians and Latvians in light of the most recent global economic crisis (GEC). The decision‐making patterns of young returnees are examined by three main research questions. How do macro‐events, such as theGEC, interfere with individual biographies creating specific return experiences? What can we say about the “crisis returnees”, their migration motivations and re‐adaptation in the origin country? What are the main challenges of young adults facing life strategies in such uncertain periods? Data are drawn from 51 in‐depth interviews with Romanian and Latvian young adults, carried out in late 2015 and early 2016. Findings show that return migration is associated with economic conditions, family life, feelings of homesickness, and re‐adaptation experiences. Our results also confirm that youth transitions and migration have become more diversified and complex in the context of the economic crisis.
Disclosure and Exchange of Inside Information*
Authors: Cao Rui , Zhang Yongli
Published: April 2019

This paper investigates how cooperation of stock analysts can affect voluntary disclosures of corporate inside information. Previous studies show that corporate insiders have incentives to disclose the information commonly shared by stock analysts, taking stock analysts’ actions as given. We focus on the strategic interactions between corporate insiders and stock analysts, and between stock analysts themselves. We show that voluntary disclosures may occur only when stock analysts intend to share their specialized information. In some sense managers are “forced” to disclose information because if they do not, stock analysts’ information sharing would put them at a disadvantage. Our results highlight the role of information exchange between stock analysts in stimulating voluntary disclosures, and provide an alternative explanation of managers’ motives for voluntary disclosures.
Ocean frontiers: epistemologies, jurisdictions, commodifications
Authors: Havice Elizabeth , Zalik Anna
Published: April 2019

The dynamic and unfolding relationship between the oceans and humans underwrites a general narrative of oceans in ‘crisis’ and the need for new governance and regulatory frameworks to attend to it. As concerns surrounding marine space have proliferated, sovereignty, territory and property in the oceans remain imprecise and subject to controversy, presenting challenges (and opportunities) for oceans governance. This special issue employs the concept of ocean frontiers as a pivot into these concerns because of the eroding, but still frequent, portrayal of the oceans as a planetary space separate from humans and because the concept offers entry points for navigating the unfolding dimensions of ocean conservation and exploitation. Deducing from the eight contributions from the special issue, we develop four inter‐related arguments. First, while ocean frontiers pre‐exist the epistemological, jurisdictional and commodification categories that we conceptualize in this editorial introduction, we find that these categories, which may be understood as intersecting inocean regimes, play central roles in closing the spatial and socially‐constituted ocean frontier, bringing it closer to human purview. Second, the materiality of oceans – their mobile and volumetric elements ‐ influences all of these emerging and intersecting oceanic processes. Third, contributing authors have developed innovative methodological approaches to the study of the oceans, revealing oceans not as ‘siteless’, but multi‐sited, and demonstrating that the social sciences are well suited methodologically to bring unfolding ocean processes into view. Last but not least, drawing from the insights set out by the contributors, we argue for ongoing interdisciplinary social (and natural) science research on the oceans as they and human‐ocean relations unfold in a period of dramatic change.
Does trust in financial institutions drive formal saving? Empirical evidence from Ghana
Authors: Baidoo Samuel Tawiah , Akoto Linda
Published: April 2019

Policies aimed at enhancing domestic savings mobilisation to facilitate economic growth have been implemented in both developed and developing countries; yet the level of savings remains low, especially in most of the developing world, due to the predominant use of informal savings methods. Several individuals’ characteristics have been identified as factors that influence individuals’ decision to use formal ways of saving with virtually no emphasis on the role of trust, which is envisaged as essential in making economic decisions. This paper investigates the effect of trust on individuals’ decision to save at financial institutions. We use primary data and employ binary probit regression for our analysis. The results show among others that boosting individuals’ trust is key to formal ways of saving. Based on the findings, we provide vital policy implications that seek to restore individuals’ trust in financial institutions.
Stochastic optimization models with substitution as a result of price differences and stockouts
Authors: Kim Sang‐Won , Bell Peter C.
Published: April 2019

Many firms produce a variety of products that are subject to demand uncertainty and are substitutable by customers where the potential for product substitution affects the firm's pricing and production decisions. Two common reasons for product substitution are stockouts (or inventory‐driven substitution), when a customer will substitute a product that is out of stock with a similar product, and price‐driven substitution where customers respond to price differences by substituting a lower priced product for a similar but higher priced product. In this paper, we include the potential for demand to move from one product or market segment to another into the demand model of the firm and present a series of single‐period stochastic models for finding optimal solutions for production quantity and product prices separately, as well as investigating the joint pricing and production decision model. We derive the optimal solution with and without a total production capacity limit and consider both inventory‐driven and price‐driven substitutions. We investigate how the firm should modify pricing and production decisions to take into account both price‐driven and inventory‐driven substitution and examine changes in the optimal prices and supply quantities with and without an aggregate supply limit. Our results demonstrate that both forms of substitution provide a revenue or profit opportunity if the firm is able to recognize the potential for substitution and respond in advance using an optimal pricing and/or ordering strategy. The contribution of this research is to present theoretical results that demonstrate the value of more complex demand models that include the possibility of stockouts and customer “leakage” from higher priced market segments to lower priced segments. Insights derived from these models lead to modified pricing and ordering strategies that will increase firm revenues and/or profitability.
Reversible luminescence modulation and temperature‐sensing properties of Pr3+/Yb3+ codoped K0.5Na0.5NbO3 ceramics
Authors: Zhang Quan , Luo Laihui , Zhu Zelin , Du Peng , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: April 2019

In this work, we have prepared a novel (K0.5Na0.5)0.99‐xPrxYb0.01NbO3 (abbreviated as KNN:xPr3+/0.01Yb3+, x = 0.0006, 0.0008, 0.001, 0.002, 0.003, and 0.004) ceramics, which possess visible UC emissions, photochromic (PC) and optical thermometric properties. Under the excitation of a 980‐nm diode laser, all the samples show the featured emissions of Pr3+ ions and the UC emission intensity is greatly dependent on the Pr3+ doping content. The optimal UC luminescence intensity is obtained at x = 0.001. All the prepared samples show a strong PC reaction, and a large luminescence quenching degree (ΔRt) of 74.94% is found. The optical thermometric properties of both the irradiated and unirradiated KNN:0.001Pr3+/0.01Yb3+ ceramics in the temperature range of 123‐573 K have been investigated via measuring the temperature‐dependent UC emission spectra of green emissions, which originate from the two 3P1 and 3P0 thermally coupled levels. It has been found that the prepared samples have both excellent PC behaviors and temperature‐sensing performances. These results suggest that the KNN:xPr3+/0.01Yb3+ ceramics are promising candidates for the applications in PC reaction and thermometers.
Commentary: “Autism: a disorder linked with some trouble in intermodal matching? Putting things together a bit further”: a commentary on Falck‐Ytter et al. (2018)
Authors: Guédeney Antoine
Published: April 2019

Falck‐Ytter et al. () (Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry 59: 872–880) designed an elegant study with 10‐month‐old siblings of children with autism using an eye‐tracking task.
Detection of the intranuclear microsporidian Enterospora nucleophila in gilthead sea bream by in situ hybridization
Authors: Ahmed Nahla Hossameldin , Caffara Monica , Sitjà‐Bobadilla Ariadna , Fioravanti Maria Letizia , Mazzone Angelica , Aboulezz Abbass Sayed , Metwally Asmaa Mohamed , Omar Mosaab Adl‐Eldin , Palenzuela Oswaldo R.
Published: April 2019

Enterospora nucleophila is an intranuclear microsporidian responsible for emaciative microsporidiosis of gilthead sea bream (GSB). Its minute size and cryptic nature make it easily misdiagnosed. An in situ hybridization (ISH) technique based on antisense oligonucleotide probes specific for the parasite was developed and used in clinically infected GSB in combination with calcofluor white stain (CW) and other histopathological techniques. The ISH method was found to label very conspicuously the cells containing parasite stages, with the signal concentrating in merogonial and sporogonial plasmodia within the infected cell nuclei. Comparison with CW demonstrated limited ISH signal in cells containing mature spores, which was attributed mostly to the scarcity of probe targets present in these stages. Although spores were detected in other organs of the digestive system as well as in the peripheral blood, proliferative stages or parasite reservoirs were not found in this work outside the intestines. The study demonstrated a frequent disassociation between the presence of abundant spores and the intensity of the infections as determined by the parasite activity. The ISH allows confirmatory diagnosis of GSB microsporidiosis and estimation of infection intensity and will be a valuable tool for a more precise determination of parasite dissemination pathways and pathogeny mechanisms.
An assay of drug‐induced emesis in the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus)
Authors: Wooldridge Lisa M. , Kangas Brian D.
Published: April 2019

Background

Emesis has significant evolutionary value as a defense mechanism against ingested toxins; however, it is also one of the most common adverse symptoms associated with both disease and medical treatments of disease. The development of improved antiemetic pharmacotherapies has been impeded by a shortage of animal models.

Methods

The present studies characterized the responses of the squirrel monkey to pharmacologically diverse emetic drugs. Subjects were administered nicotine (0.032‐0.56 mg/kg), lithium chloride (150‐250 mg/kg), arecoline (0.01‐0.32 mg/kg), or apomorphine (0.032‐0.32 mg/kg) and observed for emesis and prodromal hypersalivation.

Results

Nicotine rapidly produced emesis and hypersalivation. Lithium chloride produced emesis with a longer time course without dose‐dependent hypersalivation. Arecoline produced hypersalivation but not emesis. Apomorphine failed to produce emesis or hypersalivation.

Conclusions

The squirrel monkey is sensitive to drug‐induced emesis by a variety of pharmacological mechanisms and is well‐positioned to examine antiemetic efficacy and clinically important side effects of candidate antiemetic pharmacotherapies.
Quick and brief review: Comparison between different in vivo SPF determination methods
Authors: Hedayat Kamand , Ahmad Nasrollahi Saman , Firooz Alireza
Published: April 2019

Background

The use of sunscreen products has grown considerably in the last few decades because sunscreen products considered as one of the most important ways of skin protection against UV rays by different mechanisms such as reflecting, absorbing, or scattering. Excess expose to UV causes sunburn, early skin aging, and skin cancers.

Objective

This review aimed to review and compare prominent in vivo sun protection factor (SPF) determination protocols and investigate their approach in test criteria. Finally, this can help skin care specialists to choose the comprehensive SPF determination protocol.

Methods

Four current SPF determination protocols including ISO 24444, AS/NZS 2604:2012, CEN 2006, and FDA 2011 were selected and compared to each other.

Results and conclusions

Despite the similarity of the test method among these protocols, there are some obvious differences in test criteria which results in a better performance in the individual steps of the test process for each of these methods.
Health needs and timeliness of assessment of Victorian children entering out‐of‐home care: An audit of a multidisciplinary assessment clinic
Authors: McLean Karen , Little Keriann , Hiscock Harriet , Scott Dorothy , Goldfeld Sharon
Published: April 2019

Aim

To describe the health needs identified in children attending a comprehensive health assessment at a tertiary hospital, multidisciplinary clinic for children following entry to out‐of‐home care and timeliness of referral and assessment compared with national recommendations.

Methods

This was a retrospective audit of all the children who attended the Pathway to Good Health clinic at The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne from May 2013 until 31 August 2016.

Results

A total of 119 children aged 0–12 years attended the clinic during the audit period. Of these children, 17% (including more than 30% of 0–2‐year‐olds) were not up‐to‐date with immunisations, and 87% had physical health concerns that were addressed on the day or needed further management. Over 50% had mental health concerns identified (76% of 7–12‐year‐olds). In children aged 3–6 years, 64% had behavioural problems and 77% had developmental problems identified.

Only a third of the children was referred to the Pathway to Good Health clinic within the national standard of 30 days post‐entry to care, and 24% of children attended within 3 months of entry to care.

Conclusion

Children in out‐of‐home care within Victoria have high rates of physical, mental and developmental health concerns, consistent with previous studies. Timeliness of attendance at the clinic was low compared with national recommendations, even within a programme designed to facilitate timely health checks. This is the second and largest Australian study exploring timeliness of health checks. Further research would establish whether these results are more systemic.
Removing melatonin receptor type 1 signaling leads to selective leptin resistance in the arcuate nucleus
Authors: Buonfiglio Daniella , Tchio Cynthia , Furigo Isadora , Donato José , Baba Kenkichi , Cipolla‐Neto José , Tosini Gianluca
Published: April 2019

Recent studies have highlighted the involvement of melatonin in the regulation of energy homeostasis. In this study, we report that mice lacking melatonin receptor 1 (MT1KO) gained more weight, had a higher cumulative food intake, and were more hyperphagic after fasting compared to controls (WT). In response to a leptin injection, MT1KO mice showed a diminished reduction in body weight and food intake. To evaluate hypothalamic leptin signaling, we tested leptin‐induced phosphorylation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Leptin failed to induce STAT3 phosphorylation in MT1KO mice beyond levels observed in mice injected with phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS). Furthermore, STAT3 phosphorylation within the arcuate nucleus (ARH) was decreased in MT1KO mice. Leptin receptor mRNA levels in the hypothalamus of MT1KO were significantly reduced (about 50%) compared to WT. This study shows that: (a) MT1 deficiency causes weight gain and increased food intake; (b) a lack of MT1 signaling induces leptin resistance; (c) leptin resistance is ARH region‐specific; and (d) leptin resistance is likely due to down‐regulation of the leptin receptor. Our data demonstrate that MT1 signaling is an important modulator of leptin signaling.
The key role of insomnia and sleep loss in the dysregulation of multiple systems involved in mood disorders: A proposed model
Authors: Palagini Laura , Bastien Celyne H. , Marazziti Donatella , Ellis Jason G. , Riemann Dieter
Published: April 2019

Mood disorders are amongst the most prevalent and severe disorders worldwide, with a tendency to be recurrent and disabling. Although multiple mechanisms have been hypothesized to be involved in their pathogenesis, just a few integrative theoretical frameworks have been proposed and have yet to integrate comprehensively all available findings. As such, a comprehensive framework would be quite useful from a clinical and therapeutic point of view in order to identify elements to evaluate and target in the clinical practice. Because conditions of sleep loss, which include reduced sleep duration and insomnia, are constant alterations in mood disorders, the aim of this paper was to review the literature on their potential role in the pathogenesis of mood disorders and to propose a novel theoretical model. According to this hypothesis, sleep should be considered the main regulator of several systems and processes whose dysregulation is involved in the pathogenesis of mood disorders. The model may help explain why sleep disturbances are so strikingly linked to mood disorders, and underscores the need to evaluate, assess and target sleep disturbances in clinical practice, as a priority, in order to prevent and treat mood disorders.
How Individual Differences Affect Learning of Translation‐Ambiguous Vocabulary
Authors: Degani Tamar , Goldberg Miri
Published: April 2019

This study examined interactions of word and learner characteristics during foreign vocabulary learning, focusing on translation ambiguity and individual differences in cognitive resources and linguistic background (language proficiency, multilingual experience). Fifty‐three native Hebrew speakers and Russian–Hebrew multilinguals learned the phonological form of target Arabic words along with their Hebrew translations and definitions. The mapping could be translation ambiguous, with a single Hebrew word translated into two Arabic words (one‐to‐many) or translation unambiguous (one‐to‐one mapping). Results from translation production and meaning recognition tests revealed that translation‐ambiguous words were more difficult to learn than translation‐unambiguous words. This disadvantage did not dissipate with time, and learners’ phonological short‐term memory was associated with increased translation ambiguity costs. Learners’ proficiency in the language through which learning took place (Hebrew), but not degree of multilingualism, modulated learning. Findings underscore the importance of item and learner interactions, clarifying the multilingualism effect in novel language learning.
Adaptation of a mental development assessment tool for the evaluation of the long‐term effect of a successful nutrition intervention in Ghana
Authors: Mohammed Husein , Aboud Frances
Published: April 2019

This study adapted a cognitive assessment tool to be used in evaluating nutrition interventions in developing countries and assessed its reliability and validity in Ghana. The tool was used to evaluate the long‐term effect of the Enhancing Child Nutrition through Animal Source Food Management (ENAM) project. The former ENAM participants' children were contacted (now 13 to 15 years old). The items in the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence‐II were adapted, pretested, refined, and pretested again. Cross‐sectional data collection was conducted with former ENAM participants (60 interventions and 51 comparison families) in one of ENAM's three sites (the Guinea Savanna zone). Data on participants' socio‐economic status and food insecurity were collected, along with their children's intellectual functioning, dietary intake, school attainment, anthropometry, and symptoms of depression. Alpha coefficient of the verbal subscale improved between the first and second pretest (from .34 to .80). After controlling for age, the intelligence scores of the children were associated with their grade (r = .35, p = .001) and academic performance (r = .26 to .33, p < .05). The verbal scale was associated with their anthropometry (r = .24 to .27, p < .05). The intervention children still recorded a better dietary diversity score than controls (6.8 vs 5.8, p = .0001); however, significance was lost after adjusting for confounders. There were no significant group differences in growth or intellectual functioning. The adapted Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence‐II tool performed well in evaluating adolescent intellectual functioning in rural Ghana, and there were no long‐term effects of ENAM intervention on child growth and development.
Breaking down barriers in morning glories
Authors: Field David L. , Fraïsse Christelle
Published: April 2019

One of the most striking and consistent results in speciation genomics is the heterogeneous divergence observed across the genomes of closely related species. This pattern was initially attributed to different levels of gene exchange—with divergence preserved at loci generating a barrier to gene flow but homogenized at unlinked neutral loci. Although there is evidence to support this model, it is now recognized that interpreting patterns of divergence across genomes is not so straightforward. One problem is that heterogenous divergence between populations can also be generated by other processes (e.g. recurrent selective sweeps or background selection) without any involvement of differential gene flow. Thus, integrated studies that identify which loci are likely subject to divergent selection are required to shed light on the interplay between selection and gene flow during the early phases of speciation. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Rifkin et al. (2019) confront this challenge using a pair of sister morning glory species. They wisely design their sampling to take the geographic context of individuals into account, including geographically isolated (allopatric) and co‐occurring (sympatric) populations. This enabled them to show that individuals are phenotypically less differentiated in sympatry. They also found that the loci that resist introgression are enriched for those most differentiated in allopatry and loci that exhibit signals of divergent selection. One great strength of the study is the combination of methods from population genetics and molecular evolution, including the development of a model to simultaneously infer admixture proportions and selfing rates.
Numerical analyses of seed morphology and its taxonomic significance in the tribe Nigelleae (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Uğurlu Aydın Zübeyde , Dönmez Ali A.
Published: April 2019

We examined the seed morphology of Nigella, Garidella and Komaroffia to aid systematics and taxonomy. The seeds of 21 taxa in 20 species from Mediterranean and West Asian countries were studied using both zoom stereo and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and unweighted average linkage analysis (UPGMA) were performed to assess the contribution of seed characters to the taxonomy of the tribe. Representative pictures from zoom stereo microscopy and SEM studies and measurement of seeds are presented. Most studied species showed unique seed surface sculpturing features, and seed shape, size and surface sculpturing separated the studied taxa into five main groups. However, the variation in seed shape and color were found to be in conflict with the generic taxonomy while macromorphological characters were found more congruent with the sectional taxonomy than with the generic taxonomy. Five main types of seed ornamentations – rugulose + striate, granulate, smooth, rugulose and mucronulate – were identified. Patterns in seed micromorphology strongly supported the sectional level taxonomy of Nigella. Two of the three sections of the genus were found to be well differentiated in terms of seed characters. Furthermore, seed morphology alone provide good support to Garidella as a distinct genus, but shows less taxonomic value for Komaroffia.
Cyanoneuron (Rubiaceae) in Sulawesi? Reaffirmation of a Bornean endemic genus as a cautionary example on the use and interpretation of natural history specimen data
Authors: Neo Louise , Tan Hugh T. W. , Wong K. M.
Published: April 2019

Cyanoneuron, a genus of five species in the Rubiaceae, was described from Borneo and Sulawesi. We show that the occurrence of the genus in Sulawesi was probably derived from careless specimen labeling, and that Cyanoneuron should be considered endemic only to Borneo according to present knowledge. Erroneous collection localities in natural history specimen data can lead to the wrong interpretation of species distribution patterns, so care should be taken to verify specimen records before they are used.
What principles should guide interactions between population health researchers and the food industry? Systematic scoping review of peer‐reviewed and grey literature
Authors: Cullerton Katherine , Adams Jean , Forouhi Nita , Francis Oliver , White Martin
Published: April 2019

There is no explicit consensus amongst population health researchers regarding what constitutes acceptable or effective interactions with the food industry. This has led to confusion and disagreements over conflicts of interest, which can undermine the integrity of science. To clarify this issue, we aimed to systematically identify the key principles developed by population health researchers to prevent or minimize conflicts of interest when interacting with the food industry. Databases of peer‐reviewed literature were searched. In addition, an advanced Google search, a request to experts seeking related documents, and hand searching of references were undertaken. Thematic analysis of the extracted data was undertaken. We examined 54 eligible documents describing guidelines for population health researchers when interacting with the food industry. Fifty‐six principles were identified and synthesized in five themes. There were high levels of agreement in themes relating to research governance, transparency, and publication but less agreement and guidance on how principles should be applied in relation to funding and risk assessment. There is agreement on some of the general principles for preventing and minimizing conflicts of interests for population health researchers when interacting with the food industry. However, for issues such as assessing the appropriateness of an industry partner, greater clarity and consensus are required.
Allergen‐specific immunotherapy enhances CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ regulatory T cells and decreases nasal nitric oxide
Authors: Tsai Yi‐Giien , Yang Kuender D. , Wen Yung‐Sung , Hung Chih‐Hsing , Chien Jien‐Wen , Lin Ching‐Yuang
Published: April 2019

Background

4‐1BB (CD137), a member of the inducible tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) family, is expressed on regulatory T (Treg) cells and regulates Treg cells to control allergic inflammation. Pam3CSK4, a synthetic TLR2 ligand that can expand CD8+ Treg function, is a promising adjuvant for allergen immunotherapy (IT). We examined whether Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) IT and Pam3CSK4 could enhance CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ Treg suppressive function to decrease nasal nitric oxide (nNO) levels.

Methods

Nasal symptom scores, nNO levels, PBMCs, and inferior turbinate biopsies were obtained from 40 mite‐sensitive perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) patients before and after one year of Der p IT and 30 non‐allergic control subjects. CD137 expression on CD8+ CD25+ T cells and suppressive function of CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ Tregs was measured using flow cytometry. Cytokine levels were analyzed by ELISA. Inducible nitric oxide synthase production by nasal epithelial cells after co‐culturing with CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ T cells was analyzed by Western blotting.

Results

Der p IT improved nasal symptom scores, decreased nNO levels, and increased CD137 expression on CD8+ T cells in PBMCs and nasal mucosa. Pam3CSK4 expanded the CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ population in PBMCs. Pam3CSK4‐stimulated CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ Tregs induced IL‐10 and TGF‐β and suppressed CD4+ CD25‐ T‐cell proliferation mainly by cell contact inhibition. CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ Tregs cultured with nasal epithelial cells suppressed Der p 2–induced iNOS production. Silencing CD137 in sorted CD8+ CD25+ T cells decreased Pam3CSK4‐activated Foxp3 expression.

Conclusion

Der p IT expanded CD8+ CD25+ CD137+ Tregs and decreased nNO levels. Induced CD137 expression on CD8+ CD25+ Tregs by Pam3CSK4 stimulation may help suppress allergic inflammation during IT.
Social anxiety and negative symptoms as the characteristics of patients with schizophrenia who show competence–performance discrepancy in social functioning
Authors: Nemoto Takahiro , Uchino Takashi , Aikawa Sayaka , Saito Junichi , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Funatogawa Tomoyuki , Yamaguchi Taiju , Katagiri Naoyuki , Tsujino Naohisa , Mizuno Masafumi
Published: April 2019

Aim

Although competence and performance in relation to social functioning usually go hand in hand, it is not uncommon to observe a discrepancy between the two in patients with schizophrenia. The present study was aimed at examining the characteristics of patient groups showing such discrepancy.

Methods

A total of 205 outpatients with schizophrenia aged ≤40 years old were enrolled. The symptomatology and social functioning were widely assessed. The patients were divided into four groups by the cut‐off scores for competence and performance in relation to social functioning calculated using a comprehensive dataset.

Results

The subjects were divided according to their level of competence and performance as follows: high competence and high performance (CP) group, 108 (52.7%) patients; high competence, but low performance (Cp) group, 40 (19.5%) patients; low competence, but high performance (cP) group, 13 (6.3%) patients; low competence and low performance (cp) group, 44 (21.5%) patients. One‐way analysis of variance and post‐hoc comparisons revealed significantly worse negative symptoms, general psychopathology scores, global functioning, and quality of life in the Cp group than in the CP group, and significantly better social anxiety symptoms, global functioning, and quality of life in the cP group than in the cp group.

Conclusion

In patients who are capable, but do not perform well, negative symptoms may be involved in the discrepancy. Patients who are able to maintain themselves well despite low social competence appear to have milder social anxiety symptoms as compared to patients who are neither competent nor perform well.