bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic and clinical findings in a Chinese cohort of patients with collagen VI‐related myopathies
Authors: Fan Y. , Liu A. , Wei C. , Yang H. , Chang X. , Wang S. , Yuan Y. , Bonnemann C. , Wu Q. , Wu X. , Xiong H.
Published: February 2018

Collagen VI‐related myopathy, caused by pathogenic variants in the genes encoding collagen VI, represents a clinical continuum from Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) to Bethlem myopathy (BM). Clinical data of 60 probands and their family members were collected and muscle biopsies of 26 patients were analyzed. COL6A1, COL6A2 and COL6A3 exons were analyzed by direct sequencing or next generation sequencing (NGS). Sixty patients were characterized by delayed motor milestones, muscle weakness, skin and joint changes with 40 UCMD and 20 BM. Muscle with biopsies revealed dystrophic changes and showed completely deficiency of collagen VI or sarcolemma specific collagen VI deficiency. We identified 62 different pathogenic variants in these 60 patients, with 34 were first reported while 28 were previously known; 72 allelic pathogenic variants in COL6A1 (25/72, 34.7%), COL6A2 (33/72, 45.8%) and COL6A3 (14/72, 19.4%). We also found somatic mosaic variant in the parent of 1 proband by personal genome machine amplicon deep sequencing for mosaicism. Here we provide clinical, histological and genetic evidence of collagen VI‐related myopathy in 60 Chinese patients. NGS is a valuable approach for diagnosis and accurate diagnosis provides useful information for genetic counseling of related families.
A global analysis of management capacity and ecological outcomes in terrestrial protected areas
Authors: Geldmann Jonas , Coad Lauren , Barnes Megan D. , Craigie Ian D. , Woodley Stephen , Balmford Andrew , Brooks Thomas M. , Hockings Marc , Knights Kathryn , Mascia Michael B. , McRae Louise , Burgess Neil D.
Published: February 2018

Protecting important sites is a key strategy for halting the loss of biodiversity. However, our understanding of the relationship between management inputs and biodiversity outcomes in protected areas (PAs) remains weak. Here, we examine biodiversity outcomes using species population trends in PAs derived from the Living Planet Database in relation to management data derived from the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) database for 217 population time‐series from 73 PAs. We found a positive relationship between our METT‐based scores for Capacity and Resources and changes in vertebrate abundance, consistent with the hypothesis that PAs require adequate resourcing to halt biodiversity loss. Additionally, PA age was negatively correlated with trends for the mammal subsets and PA size negatively correlated with population trends in the global subset. Our study highlights the paucity of appropriate data for rigorous testing of the role of management in maintaining species populations across multiple sites, and describes ways to improve our understanding of PA performance.
Cardiovascular biomarkers in clinical studies of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Baldassarre Maria P. A. , Andersen Andreas , Consoli Agostino , Knop Filip K. , Vilsbøll Tina
Published: February 2018

When planning cardiovascular (CV) studies in type 2 diabetes (T2D), selection of CV biomarkers is a complex issue. Because the pathophysiology of CV disease (CVD) in T2D is multifactorial, ideally, the selected CV biomarkers should cover all aspects of the known pathophysiology of the disease. This will allow the researcher to distinguish between effects on different aspects of the pathophysiology. To this end, we discuss a host of biomarkers grouped according to their role in the pathogenesis of CVD, namely: (1) cardiac damage biomarkers; (2) inflammatory biomarkers; and (3) novel biomarkers (oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction biomarkers). Within each category we present the best currently validated biomarkers, with special focus on the population of interest (people with T2D). For each individual biomarker, we discuss the physiological role, validation in the general population and in people with T2D, analytical methodology, modifying factors, effects of glucose‐lowering drugs, and interpretation. This approach will provide clinical researchers with the information necessary for planning, conducting and interpreting results from clinical trials. Furthermore, a systematic approach to selection of CV biomarkers in T2D research will improve the quality of future research.
Paternalism, Nudging and Liberty
Authors: Snowdon Christopher
Published: February 2018

The recent popularity of ‘nudge’ – involving governments structuring choices to lead individuals to choose outcomes which policymakers wish to encourage – has given rise to a belief that ‘libertarian paternalism’ offers a modern substitute for classical liberalism. But most governments are more paternalistic and less libertarian than nudge theorists. If ‘nudge’ was taken seriously, many existing laws would be repealed and few new laws would be made.
Why Does the Negotiable Certificate of Deposit Matter for Chinese Banking?
Authors: Liu Kerry
Published: February 2018

The Negotiable Certificate of Deposit (NCD) is a major financial instrument in China; the value of outstanding Chinese NCDs was approximately RMB8 trillion (equivalent to USD1.2 trillion) in mid‐2017. This article reviews the most recent developments in the Chinese NCD, including its effect on interest rate pass‐through and money creation. Empirical results show that the introduction of the NCD in 2014 influenced the relationship between the policy rate and the lending rate of Chinese commercial banks, and the interest rate pass‐through from the policy rate to the lending rate of commercial banks improved subsequently. However, this process has also been accompanied by maturity mismatch, increasing leverage, and decreasing credit ratings for the assets of banks and other financial institutions. Consequently, systemic risk in the Chinese banking system has increased.
Echocardiographic 3D‐guided 2D planimetry in quantifying left‐sided valvular heart disease
Authors: Argulian Edgar , Seetharam Karthik
Published: February 2018

Echocardiographic 3D‐guided 2D planimetry can improve the accuracy of valvular disease assessment. Acquisition of 3D pyramidal dataset allows subsequent multiplanar reconstruction with accurate orthogonal plane alignment to obtain the correct borders of an anatomic orifice or flow area. Studies examining the 3D‐guided 2D planimetry approach in left‐sided valvular heart disease were identified and reviewed. The strongest evidence exists for estimating mitral valve area in patients with rheumatic mitral valve stenosis and vena contracta area in patients with mitral regurgitation (both primary and secondary). 3D‐guided approach showed excellent feasibility and reproducibility in most studies, as well as time efficiency and good correlation with reference and comparator methods. Therefore, 3D‐guided 2D planimetry can be used as an important clinical tool in quantifying left‐sided valvular heart disease, especially mitral valve disorders.
Competing for blood: the ecology of parasite resource competition in human malaria–helminth co‐infections
Authors: Budischak Sarah A. , Wiria Aprilianto E. , Hamid Firdaus , Wammes Linda J. , Kaisar Maria M. M. , van Lieshout Lisette , Sartono Erliyani , Supali Taniawati , Yazdanbakhsh Maria , Graham Andrea L.
Published: February 2018

Ecological theory suggests that co‐infecting parasite species can interact within hosts directly, via host immunity and/or via resource competition. In mice, competition for red blood cells (RBCs) between malaria and bloodsucking helminths can regulate malaria population dynamics, but the importance of RBC competition in human hosts was unknown. We analysed infection density (i.e. the concentration of parasites in infected hosts), from a 2‐year deworming study of over 4000 human subjects. After accounting for resource‐use differences among parasites, we find evidence of resource competition, priority effects and a competitive hierarchy within co‐infected individuals. For example reducing competition via deworming increased Plasmodium vivax densities 2.8‐fold, and this effect is limited to bloodsucking hookworms. Our ecological, resource‐based perspective sheds new light into decades of conflicting outcomes of malaria–helminth co‐infection studies with significant health and transmission consequences. Beyond blood, investigating within‐human resource competition may bring new insights for improving human health.
Talent Management: The Good, the Bad, and the Possible
Authors: Painter‐Morland Mollie , Kirk Susan , Deslandes Ghislain , Tansley Carole
Published: February 2018

In this essay we offer a critical investigation of talent management practices (TMP), which is an increasingly influential concept in contemporary organisations. We try to show how these organisational practices could have both a negative and a positive ethical impact on those identified as ‘talent’ within organisations. A critical analysis of how talent is defined, and how this impacts on individuals’ capacities for ethical reflection, allows us to highlight the ethical ambiguity inherent in talent management (TM). We then highlight examples of some ‘bad’ consequences of TM, and explore some ‘good’ counter‐examples. To highlight what may be ‘possible’ in talent management, we propose a more constructive relationship between talent management and ethics based on two dimensions: (1) the acceptance of ambiguity and personal struggle and (2) the development of more qualitative approaches to performance that could enable a better understanding of and sensitivity towards the broader context within which organisations function.
The immediate and short‐term effects of bilateral intrahippocampal depth electrodes on verbal memory
Authors: Helmstaedter Christoph , Gielen Gerrit H. , Witt Juri‐Alexander
Published: February 2018

In contrast to previous studies, Ljung et al. provide evidence of permanent cognitive consequences of bilateral intrahippocampal depth electrodes for verbal memory in patients who were not operated or operated in the right temporal lobe. Stimulated by this, we provide historical confirmatory and supplementary evidence of the detrimental effect of bilateral depth electrodes implanted along the longitudinal axis of the hippocampus on verbal learning and especially on delayed verbal memory and recognition performance. This is demonstrated in 31 patients with memory assessments before implantation, after explantation, and 3 months later after left/right temporal lobe surgery. After surgery, significant recovery from postimplantation impairment is found in right temporal patients. Left temporal resection patients stay on the level seen after implantation and do not recover. Surgery, however, has its own effects in addition to the implantation. Intracranial electrodes for electroencephalographic monitoring or electrical stimulation are commonly and increasingly used for diagnosis or treatment in pharmacoresistant epilepsies. Thus, the monitoring of invasive stereotactic approaches is recommended to find safe procedures for the patients. In response to the findings, we restricted indications and used different implantation schemes, different trajectories, and targets to minimize the risk of additional damage.
The Parental Stress Scale: Psychometric Properties in Families of Children With Chronic Health Conditions
Authors: Zelman Jessica J. , Ferro Mark A.
Published: February 2018

Objective

To confirm the factor structure of the Parental Stress Scale (PSS) and examine its validity in parents whose children have chronic health conditions.

Background

Parents who have a child with a chronic illness report more stress than parents of healthy children. However, information is lacking on whether the PSS demonstrates adequate psychometric properties in this population.

Method

Data came from a convenience sample of 50 parents whose children (aged 6–16 years) were newly diagnosed with asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, food allergy, or juvenile arthritis. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to replicate the factor structure of the PSS. Analyses were bootstrapped to reduce potential sample bias.

Results

The factor structure of the PSS was validated and demonstrated adequate internal consistency, α = .84. There was evidence of convergent validity with family functioning, r = –.51, parental anxiety, r = .44, and depression, r = .35. Discriminant analyses showed low, nonstatistical correlations with domains of child quality of life, r = –.07 to –.18. The PSS did not differentiate between those with and without psychiatric disorders.

Conclusion

The PSS is valid and reliable in parents of children with chronic health conditions.

Implications

Having established robust psychometric properties of the PSS, research is needed to extend its utility and routine use in clinical and public health settings.
Recovery of plankton from hurricane impacts in a large shallow lake
Authors: Ji Gaohua , Havens Karl E. , Beaver John R. , East Therese L.
Published: February 2018

We quantified recovery of plankton in a large subtropical shallow lake from the catastrophic impacts of three successive major hurricanes. This assessment was possible because hurricanes passed directly over the lake amid an ongoing long‐term sampling programme that included nearly all components of the plankton, from bacteria to crustacean zooplankton.

We compared attributes of plankton 5 years after the hurricanes to a pre‐hurricane period and to a period immediately after the storms. We evaluated both community‐level properties (biomass, biomass ratios, diversity, and dominance of major plankton groups) and species‐level properties (species absolute and relative biomass) at four sites in the lake representing different ecological zones.

The hurricanes strongly affected water quality and plankton community structure. The lake experienced a regime shift, losing its submerged aquatic vegetation and becoming homogenous and turbid at all sampled sites.

Five years after the storms, chemical and physical conditions recovered across the lake, with a few exceptions. Between 35 and 93 plankton species were lost at the sampling sites, with greatest losses in the phytoplankton. Relative species biomass displayed substantive changes too. Daphnia ambigua did not recover at three of the sites, Polyarthra vulgaris greatly increased lake‐wide, and at a central pelagic site, there was a total loss of heterotrophic nano‐flagellates and a much higher biomass of diatoms than before the hurricanes, despite recovery of irradiance, depth, nutrient levels and other attributes.

Most community‐level properties were resilient, returning to pre‐hurricane conditions of total biomass, ratios of autotrophs to heterotrophs and ratios of protozoa to metazoa. This likely happened because of species compensation in the biodiverse community. The exception was at a central pelagic site, where the community‐level properties did not recover and nearly 50 per cent of species were lost.

The community resilience, despite a regime shift, may have occurred because of a controlled lowering of water levels in the lake for flood protection, which led to regrowth of lost submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) and migration of mud sediments back towards mid‐lake.

In this lake and others with a history of high nutrient inputs, shallow depth and flocculent sediments, resilience may be low unless counter‐acting forces are able to push the system back after a regime shift.
Health status of older adults living in the community in Japan: Recent changes and significance in the super‐aged society
Authors: Suzuki Takao
Published: February 2018

As of 2017, the total Japanese population was 126.7 million, which included 35 million who were aged ≥65 years (27.6%) and 17.3 million aged ≥75 years (13.7%). From now, the old‐old aged ≥75 years will increase rapidly in Japan compared with the young‐old aged 65–74 years. The characteristics of the old‐old include deterioration of activities of daily living (ADL) functions and an increase of chronic diseases, which are unavoidable consequences of advanced age. In the present review article, secular changes of the health status and functional capacity of older people living in communities are described based on representative longitudinal studies on aging in Japan. The author also discusses the importance and implication of two major strategies related to health promotion, and prevention of both lifestyle‐related diseases and long‐term care dependence in the super‐aged society. Among the old‐old people, prevention of long‐term care dependence becomes a much higher priority than disease prevention. In regard to evidence‐based prevention of long‐term care dependence, various geriatric syndromes, such as undernutrition, falling, incontinence and decline of cognitive function, are the major targets for prevention. Many randomized controlled trials on the prevention of geriatric syndromes have been carried out in Japan, targeting high‐risk older people living in the community, and have attained many excellent achievements so far. Finally, the author introduces a new index of competence for older people (the Japan Science and Technology Agency Index of Competence), which can accurately measure high‐level competence and higher functioning needed to execute the activities of more sophisticated living of today and in the future. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 667–677.
On the advantages and disadvantages of being the first mover under rules of k names
Authors: Barberà Salvador , Coelho Danilo
Published: February 2018

Rules of k names are methods that allow two potentially conflicting parties to share the power to appoint officers. One of the parties (the proposer) selects k candidates from a larger pool, and then the other party (the chooser) selects the winner from this restricted list. We investigate conditions under which the two parties could agree ex ante on the distributions of roles, one of them preferring to be the chooser and the other preferring to be the proposer. We show that this may not always be possible, and discuss what are the relevant characteristics of the environments where agreement can be reached.
Suzumura‐consistent relations: An overview
Authors: Bossert Walter
Published: February 2018

This paper provides a brief introduction to the use and usefulness of Suzumura consistency, a coherence requirement for binary relations that weakens transitivity. The property was introduced by Suzumura in the context of collective choice but, as demonstrated in some recent contributions, its applicability reaches beyond the boundaries of social‐choice theory. In addition to a summary of its mathematical underpinnings, some recent applications in individual and collective decision‐making are provided. Several examples are employed to illustrate the property and how it distinguishes itself from alternative weakenings of transitivity such as quasi‐transitivity or acyclicity.
Role of computed tomography‐calculated intraparenchymal tumor volume in assessment of patients undergoing partial nephrectomy
Authors: Tiwari Raj Vikesh , Ho Chia Ming , Huang Hong Hong , Ho Henry Sun Sien , Sim Allen Soon Phang
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To determine the complexity of renal masses by using an objective novel imaging parameter (intraparenchymal tumor volume) based on computed tomography scans, to correlate this parameter to perioperative outcomes and to the RENAL nephrometry score.

Methods

After institutional review board approval, 87 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy between 2012 and 2016 at Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative computed tomography intravenous pyelogram scans were reviewed by a single senior radiologist who calculated the intraparenchymal tumor volume. Once the intraparenchymal tumor volume scores were obtained, they were compared with perioperative renal and surgical outcomes, and nephrometry scores. Furthermore, intraparenchymal tumor volume was subdivided into two categories, low and high intraparenchymal tumor volume, both using the 89th percentile.

Results

The mean patient age was 60 years, and the mean tumor size was 2.9 cm. The mean nephrometry score was 7.8, and the mean intraparenchymal tumor volume score was 12.7 cm³. The cut‐off for high intraparenchymal tumor volume was >27.26 cm³. As a continuous variable, intraparenchymal tumor volume showed a significant relationship with the percentage of creatinine change (P = 0.009) and nephrometry scores (P < 0.001). As a categorical variable, high intraparenchymal tumor volume showed significance when compared with absolute creatinine change (P = 0.018), percentage of creatinine change (P = 0.004) and nephrometry score (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Intraparenchymal tumor volume represents a novel objective tool based on computed tomography imaging to determine the complexity of a renal mass. This tool correlates with renal functional outcomes of partial nephrectomy, and it also shows good correlation with RENAL nephrometry score.
Evidence of negative seasonal carry‐over effects of breeding ground mercury exposure on survival of migratory songbirds
Authors: Ma Yanju , Branfireun Brian A. , Hobson Keith A. , Guglielmo Christopher G.
Published: February 2018

Mercury (Hg) is a well‐known global contaminant that persists in the environment. The organic form, methylmercury (MeHg) has been shown to adversely affect bird immune function, foraging behavior, navigation, and flight ability, which individually or together could reduce migration performance, and ultimately survival. Nestlings grow feathers at their natal site, and in North America many adult passerines undergo a complete feather molt prior to autumn migration at or near their breeding location. Body Hg is redistributed into growing feathers, and remains stable following feather growth. As flight feathers are retained in most species over the non‐breeding season until molt in the following summer, tail feathers can be used at other times and places as indicators of Hg body burden on the breeding grounds. In five migratory passerine species, we compared Hg concentrations in tail feathers that were grown prior to autumn migration and retained until the following spring. We predicted that we would observe a shift in the distribution of species‐specific feather Hg values towards lower means in the spring if Hg reduced survival over the migration and winter periods. We found reductions in mean feather Hg between autumn and spring in two long‐distance migratory insectivores (blackpoll warbler Setophaga striata; American redstart Setophaga ruticilla). Most significantly, spring‐returning blackpoll warblers, a species that undertakes long non‐stop flights to South America during autumn migration, had nearly 50 percent lower Hg concentrations than those that departed in the autumn. Our finding suggests that Hg exposure on the breeding areas could have a carry‐over effect to influence migration success and survival of insectivorous songbirds that undergo extensive and demanding migratory journeys. More investigation is needed to fully understand the relationships among Hg exposure, migration performance, and survival of songbirds.
Leucocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin block for bone augmentation procedure: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Cortellini Simone , Castro Ana B. , Temmerman Andy , Van Dessel Jeroen , Pinto Nelson , Jacobs Reinhilde , Quirynen Marc
Published: February 2018

Aim

The objective of this proof‐of‐concept study was to investigate the effects of a new guided bone regeneration technique with a tissue engineering approach.

Materials and Methods

This single cohort observational study evaluated the outcome of the leucocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF) Block for horizontal bone augmentation in the maxilla. The L‐PRF Block is prepared by mixing a particulated biomaterial with chopped L‐PRF membranes at a 50:50 ratio and adding liquid fibrinogen to glue all together. Horizontal augmentation was assessed linearly and volumetrically immediately after surgery and 5–8 months later by matching consecutive cone beam computed tomography (CBCTs).

Results

Ten patients (mean age of 50.7 years [±17.2]) representing 15 sites with horizontal alveolar deficiencies were included. Superimposition of pre‐operative and posthealing CBCT scans showed an average linear horizontal bone gain of 4.6 mm (±2.3), 5.3 mm (±1.2) and 4.4 mm (±2.3), measured at 2, 6 and 10 mm from the alveolar crest, respectively. The volumetric gain was 1.05 cm3 (±0.7) on average. The resorption rate after 5–8 months was 15.6% (±6.7) on average.

Conclusions

L‐PRF Block may be a suitable technique to augment deficient alveolar ridges.
Comparing anadromous brown troutSalmo truttain small, neighbouring catchments across contrasting landscapes: What is the role of environment in determining life‐history characteristics?
Authors: Thomson M. , Lyndon A. R.
Published: February 2018

Study of anadromous brown troutSalmo truttain Orkney, U.K., burns (small streams) with a common‐garden sea in Scapa Flow supports the key role of nutrient availability in fresh water, independent of day length, as a determinant of smolt age, with a systematic increase in mean smolt age from 1 to 3 years related inversely to productivity. Whole catchment (8 km2) population budgets indicated annual smolt production of around 650 individuals from approximately 100 spawners. Egg‐to‐smolt survival was 0·65%, while marine survival was estimated from mark–recapture to be between 3·5 and 10%. The question of B‐type growth (accelerated growth immediately prior to or during smolt migration) was also addressed, with a strong negative correlation between B‐type growth and size at end of winter suggesting that this represents a freshwater compensatory growth response. The data obtained indicate the potential importance of small catchments for supporting anadromousSalmo truttapopulations and suggest that small runs of spawners (<100 individuals) are adequate to maintain stocks in such situations. Furthermore, they support the key role of freshwater productivity in determining life‐history characteristics over small spatial scales, with Orkney providing a useful natural laboratory for future research into metapopulation genetic structuring and environmental factors at a tractable scale.
Acute anti‐obesity effects of intracerebroventricular 11β‐HSD1 inhibitor administration in diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Seo M. , Islam S. A. , Moon S.‐S.
Published: February 2018

The hypothalamus is the regulatory centre of both appetite and energy balance and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the hypothalamus is involved in the pathogenesis of obesity. Recently, inhibition of 11 β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type1 (11β‐HSD1) was reported to have an anti‐obesity effect by reducing fat mass. However, the link between the role of 11β‐HSD1 in the hypothalamus and obesity has yet to be determined. In the present study, embryonal primary hypothalamic neurones and high‐fat diet (HFD) fed mice were used to investigate the anorexigenic effects of 11β‐HSD1 inhibitors both in vitro and in vivo. In hypothalamic neurones, carbenoxolone (a non selecitve 11β‐HSD inhibitor) alleviated ER stress and ER stress‐induced neuropeptide alterations. In HFD mice, i.c.v. administration of carbenoxolone or KR67500 (nonselective and selective 11β‐HSD1 inhibitors, respectively) was associated with less weight gain compared to control mice for 24 hours after treatment, presumably by reducing food intake. Furthermore, glucose regulated protein (Grp78), spliced X‐box binding protein (Xbp‐1s), c/EBP homologous protein (chop) and ER DnaJ homologue protein (Erdj4) expression was decreased in the hypothalami of mice administrated 11β‐HSD1 inhibitors compared to controls. Conversely, the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3), mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK/ERK) and S6 kinase1 (S6K1) in the hypothalamus was induced more in mice treated using the same regimes. In conclusion, acute 11β‐HSD1 inhibition in the hypothalamus could reduce food intake by decreasing ER stress and increasing insulin, leptin, and mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signalling.
A study on the information–motivation–behavioural skills model among Chinese adults with peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Chang Tian‐ying , Zhang Yi‐lin , Shan Yan , Liu Sai‐sai , Song Xiao‐yue , Li Zheng‐yan , Du Li‐ping , Li Yan‐yan , Gao Douqing
Published: February 2018

Aim and objective

To examine whether the information–motivation–behavioural skills model could predict self‐care behaviour among Chinese peritoneal dialysis patients.

Background

Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment performed by patients or their caregivers in their own home. It is important to implement theory‐based projects to increase the self‐care of patients with peritoneal dialysis. The information–motivation–behavioural model has been verified in diverse populations as a comprehensive, effective model to guide the design, implementation and evaluation of self‐care programmes.

Design

A cross‐sectional, observational study.

Methods

A total of 201 adults with peritoneal dialysis were recruited at a 3A grade hospital in China. Participant data were collected on demographics, self‐care information (knowledge), social support (social motivation), self‐care attitude (personal motivation), self‐efficacy (behaviour skills) and self‐care behaviour. We also collected data on whether the recruited patients had peritoneal dialysis‐associated peritonitis from electronic medical records. Measured variable path analysis was performed using mplus 7.4 to identify the information–motivation–behavioural model.

Results

Self‐efficacy, information and social motivation predict peritoneal dialysis self‐care behaviour directly. Information and personal support affect self‐care behaviour through self‐efficacy, whereas peritoneal dialysis self‐care behaviour has a direct effect on the prevention of peritoneal dialysis‐associated peritonitis.

Conclusions

The information–motivation–behavioural model is an appropriate and applicable model to explain and predict the self‐care behaviour of Chinese peritoneal dialysis patients. Poor self‐care behaviour among peritoneal dialysis patients results in peritoneal dialysis‐associated peritonitis.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings suggest that self‐care education programmes for peritoneal dialysis patients should include strategies based on the information–motivation–behavioural model to enhance knowledge, motivation and behaviour skills to change or maintain self‐care behaviour.
Staying well with bipolar disorder: A qualitative analysis of five‐year follow‐up interviews with young people
Authors: Crowe M. , Inder M.
Published: February 2018

Accessible summary

What is already known about the topic?

Bipolar disorder is a long‐term condition which causes ongoing disruptions to the individual's life.

Current evidence suggests that a combination of medication in combination with psychotherapy is more effective than medication alone.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

There are few published reports of the effects of interventions (pharmacological or psychotherapeutic) for treatment in bipolar disorder.

While both psychotherapies provided a framework for understanding bipolar disorder each had specific strategies that participants identified as effective.

What are the implications for practice?

Because bipolar disorder is a long‐term condition, its treatment needs to incorporate psychotherapeutic approaches that address the unique nature of its impact on each individual and provide individualized strategies for managing the disorder.

Both Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy and Specialist Supportive Care provide strategies that promote personal recovery.

Introduction

The primary outcomes from this study of psychotherapy for young people with bipolar disorder identified that most participants had continued to remain well. Given that up to 80% of people relapse within 2 years, it was important to establish how these participants described the process of staying well.

Aim

To examine how participants in a psychotherapy for young people with bipolar disorder study at 5‐year follow‐up described their experiences of the intervention and its impact on living with the disorder.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted 5 years after participants had completed a psychotherapy intervention in a randomized controlled trial for young people with bipolar disorder. Thirty people were recruited into this qualitative study and interviewed regarding their experiences. The data were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis.

Findings

Three themes were identified from the data: self‐awareness in the context of bipolar disorder; understanding my bipolar disorder; and learning to stay well with bipolar disorder.

Conclusions

Mental health nurses can promote the factors that participants found helpful in learning to stay well self‐awareness, understanding the unique characteristics of their disorder, learning to take care of the self and stabilization of social rhythms.
Accuracy of the radioactive copper incorporation test in the diagnosis of Wilson disease
Authors: Członkowska Anna , Rodo Maria , Wierzchowska‐Ciok Agata , Smolinski Lukasz , Litwin Tomasz
Published: February 2018

Background & Aims

In Wilson disease (WD), copper accumulates in the liver and other tissues because of mutations in the ATP7B copper transporter gene. Early and effective anticopper treatment is crucial. However, routine diagnostic methods based on clinical findings, copper metabolism tests, liver biopsies and DNA analyses do not always provide a conclusive diagnosis. The aim was to evaluate radioactive copper incorporation as a diagnostic test.

Methods

We included cases with a diagnosis of WD supported by radiocopper testing and later, when available, confirmed by DNA analysis. Incorporation of 64Cu was measured at 2, 24 and 48 hours following intravenous injection. Diagnostic accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC]), sensitivity, specificity and predictive value were assessed for 24 hours/2 hours and 48 hours/2 hours 64Cu ratios and compared with serum measurements of ceruloplasmin, copper, non‐ceruloplasmin‐bound copper and urinary 24‐hours copper excretion.

Results

Patients having two pathogenic ATP7B mutations (homozygotes/compound heterozygotes) (n = 74) had significantly lower 24 hours/2 hours and 48 hours/2 hours 64Cu ratios than heterozygote controls (n = 21) (mean 0.14 and 0.12 vs 0.49 and 0.63, respectively; both P < .001). Of note, 24 hours/2 hours and 48 hours/2 hours 64Cu ratios had excellent diagnostic accuracy, with AUCs approaching 1, and only 24‐hours urinary copper excretion displayed similar positive features. Other copper metabolism tests studied had lower accuracy, specificity and sensitivity.

Conclusions

The radioactive copper test had excellent diagnostic accuracy and may be useful in the evaluation of new therapies aimed at restoring ATP7B function.
Shifts in diversification rates and host jump frequencies shaped the diversity of host range among Sclerotiniaceae fungal plant pathogens
Authors: Navaud Olivier , Barbacci Adelin , Taylor Andrew , Clarkson John P. , Raffaele Sylvain
Published: February 2018

The range of hosts that a parasite can infect in nature is a trait determined by its own evolutionary history and that of its potential hosts. However, knowledge on host range diversity and evolution at the family level is often lacking. Here, we investigate host range variation and diversification trends within the Sclerotiniaceae, a family of Ascomycete fungi. Using a phylogenetic framework, we associate diversification rates, the frequency of host jump events and host range variation during the evolution of this family. Variations in diversification rate during the evolution of the Sclerotiniaceae define three major macro‐evolutionary regimes with contrasted proportions of species infecting a broad range of hosts. Host–parasite cophylogenetic analyses pointed towards parasite radiation on distant hosts long after host speciation (host jump or duplication events) as the dominant mode of association with plants in the Sclerotiniaceae. The intermediate macro‐evolutionary regime showed a low diversification rate, high frequency of duplication events and the highest proportion of broad host range species. Our findings suggest that the emergence of broad host range fungal pathogens results largely from host jumps, as previously reported for oomycete parasites, probably combined with low speciation rates. These results have important implications for our understanding of fungal parasites evolution and are of particular relevance for the durable management of disease epidemics.
First record of humpback whale songs in Southern Chile: Analysis of seasonal and diel variation
Authors: Español‐Jiménez Sonia , van der Schaar Mike
Published: February 2018

Male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae)produce complex, patterned songs that are traditionally recorded on their breeding grounds. In this work, we report results from the first continuous acoustic monitoring of a humpback whale feeding ground off southern Chile, Corcovado Gulf. Using an autonomous continuously recording system anchored to the seafloor and an automatic signal detector, we used the units within a song to analyze the temporal distribution and diel patterns of humpback whales. Acoustic recordings were made at the end of the austral summer and autumn of 2012. Songs occurred over the entire 130 d monitoring period, from 1 February to 15 June 2012. The percentage of units detected increased throughout the monitored period with the highest detections in the last recorded month (June), despite recording for fewer days that month. Furthermore, songs were detected during all light regimes studied, but most frequently during darkness. This study provides further evidence that, far from being rare or sporadic, humpback whale songs occur commonly at a feeding ground in high latitudes over different light conditions and in all months, with a peak in autumn.
Efficacy of a novel neem oil formulation (RP03™) to control the poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae
Authors: Camarda A. , Pugliese N. , Bevilacqua A. , Circella E. , Gradoni L. , George D. , Sparagano O. , Giangaspero A.
Published: February 2018

Dermanyssus gallinae (Mesostigmata: Dermanyssidae) is the most harmful ectoparasite of laying hens, represents an occupational hazard for poultry workers, and a growing threat to medical science per se. There is increasing demand for alternative products, including plant‐derived acaricides, with which to control the mite. The present study investigated the efficacy of neem oil against D. gallinae on a heavily infested commercial laying hen farm. A novel formulation of 20% neem oil, diluted from a 2400‐p.p.m. azadirachtin‐concentrated stock (RP03™), was administered by nebulization three times in 1 week. Using corrugated cardboard traps, mite density was monitored before, during and after treatment and results were statistically analysed. Mite populations in the treated block showed 94.65%, 99.64% and 99.80% reductions after the first, second and third product administrations, respectively. The rate of reduction of the mite population was significantly higher in the treated block (P < 0.001) compared with the control and buffer blocks. The results suggest the strong bioactivity of neem, and specifically of the patented neem‐based formulation RP03™, against D. gallinae. The treatment was most effective in the 10 days following the first application and its effects persisted for over 2 months. Further studies will aim to overcome observed side effects of treatment represented by an oily layer on equipment and eggs.
Consensus opinion on diagnosis and management of thrombotic microangiopathy in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Fox Lucy C , Cohney Solomon J , Kausman Joshua Y , Shortt Jake , Hughes Peter D , Wood Erica M , Isbel Nicole M , de Malmanche Theo , Durkan Anne , Hissaria Pravin , Blombery Piers , Barbour Thomas D
Published: February 2018

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) arises in a variety of clinical circumstances with the potential to cause significant dysfunction of the kidneys, brain, gastrointestinal tract and heart. TMA should be considered in all patients with thrombocytopenia and anaemia, with an immediate request to the haematology laboratory to look for red cell fragments on a blood film. While TMA of any aetiology generally demands prompt treatment, this is especially so in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS), where organ failure may be precipitous, irreversible and fatal. In all adults, urgent, empirical plasma exchange (PE) should be started within 4–8 h of presentation for a possible diagnosis of TTP, pending a result for ADAMTS13 activity (a disintegrin and metalloprotease thrombospondin, number 13). A sodium citrate plasma sample should be collected for ADAMTS13 testing prior to any plasma therapy. In children, Shiga toxin‐associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome due to infection with Escherichia coli (STEC‐HUS) is the commonest cause of TMA, and is managed supportively. If TTP and STEC‐HUS have been excluded, a diagnosis of aHUS should be considered, for which treatment is with the monoclonal complement C5 inhibitor, eculizumab. While early confirmation of aHUS is often not possible, except in the minority of patients in whom autoantibodies against factor H are identified, genetic testing ultimately reveals a complement‐related mutation in a significant proportion of aHUS cases. The presence of other TMA‐associated conditions (e.g. infection, pregnancy/postpartum and malignant hypertension) does not exclude TTP or aHUS as the underlying cause of TMA.
Long distance RNA movement
Authors: Kehr Julia , Kragler Friedrich
Published: February 2018

Contents

Summary
29

I.
Introduction
29

II.
Phloem as a conduit for macromolecules
30

III.
Classes of phloem transported RNAs and their function
32

IV.
Mode of RNA transport
35

V.
Conclusions
37

Acknowledgements
37

References
37

In higher plants, small noncoding RNAs and large messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules are transported between cells and over long distances via the phloem. These large macromolecules are thought to get access to the sugar‐conducting phloem vessels via specialized plasmodesmata (PD). Analyses of the phloem exudate suggest that all classes of RNA molecules, including silencing‐induced RNAs (siRNAs), micro RNAs (miRNAs), transfer RNAs (tRNAs), ribosomal RNA (rRNAs) and mRNAs, are transported via the vasculature to distant tissues. Although the functions of mobile siRNAs and miRNAs as signalling molecules are well established, we lack a profound understanding of mobile mRNA function(s) in recipient cells and tissues, and how they are selected for transport. A surprisingly high number of up to thousands of mRNAs were described in diverse plant species such as cucumber, pumpkin, Arabidopsis and grapevine to move long distances over graft junctions to distinct body parts. In this review, we present an overview of the classes of mobile RNAs, the potential mechanisms facilitating RNA long‐distance transport, and the roles of mobile RNAs in regulating transcription and translation. Furthermore, we address potential function(s) of mobile protein‐encoding mRNAs with respect to their characteristics and evolutionary constraints.
Visual perceptual skills and visual motor integration in children and adolescents after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Fahnehjelm Kristina Teär , Törnquist Alba Lucia , Olsson Monica , Winiarski Jacek , Ek Ulla
Published: February 2018

The aim of the study was to study visual acuity, visual perceptual, and VMI skills in patients after HSCT in childhood. Tests of visual perceptual skills, VMI, and visual acuity were performed in 102 children/adolescents (age range 4.3‐20.9 years). Mean time from HSCT to testing was 6.0 years (0.9‐17.5 years). Visual acuity was median 1.0 decimal (range 0.16‐1.6). Visual perceptual skills (memory, form constancy, visual sequential memory) and VMI were low compared to age‐equivalent normative data with, respectively, 36%, 45%, 60%, and 46% of all patients performing below the 25 percentile. All patients performed significantly lower than the 50 percentile in the reference material in visual sequential memory, P < .001 (boys P < .001 and girls P < .05). All patients also performed significantly lower than the 50 percentile in VMI (P < .01) (boys P < .05). Pretransplant conditioning regimen did not affect outcome if the results were corrected for age at HSCT. Visual perceptual skill problems and VMI problems frequently occur in patients after HSCT in childhood. Age at HSCT and original diagnosis influence the outcome. Neuropsychological assessment including visual perception is recommended in children after HSCT.
Wittgenstein's Inspiring View of Nature: On Connecting Philosophy and Science Aright
Authors: Hutto Daniel D. , Satne Glenda
Published: February 2018

This paper explicates Wittgenstein's vision of our place in nature and shows in what ways it is unlike and more fruitful than the picture of nature promoted by exclusive scientific naturalists. Wittgenstein's vision of nature is bound up with and supports his signature view that the task of philosophy is distinctively descriptive rather than explanatory. Highlighting what makes Wittgenstein's vision of nature special, it has been claimed that to the extent that he qualifies as a naturalist of any sort he ought to be regarded as a liberal naturalist (Macarthur forthcoming, Wittgenstein, Philosophy of Mind and Naturalism. London: Routledge). We argue, in contrast, that focusing solely on the liberality of Wittgenstein's view of nature risks overlooking and downplaying the ways in which his philosophical clarifications can act as a platform for productively engaging with the sciences in their explanatory endeavors. We argue that Wittgenstein's vision of nature allows for a more relaxed form of naturalism in which philosophy can be a productive partner for scientific inquiry and investigation. Although this feature of Wittgenstein's vision of nature is not something that he himself emphasized, given his interests and concerns, it is an inspiring vision in an age in which philosophy must find its feet with and alongside the sciences.