bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The transient receptor potential melastatin 4 channel inhibitor 9‐phenanthrol modulates cardiac sodium channel
Authors: Hou Jian‐wen , Fei Yu‐dong , Li Wei , Chen Yi‐he , Wang Qian , Xiao Ying , Wang Yue‐peng , Li Yi‐gang
Published: August 2018

Background and Purpose

9‐Phenanthrol, known as a specific inhibitor of the transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRMP4) channel, has been shown to modulate cardiac electrical activity and exert antiarrhythmic effects. However, its pharmacological effects remain to be fully explored. Here, we tested the hypothesis that cardiac sodium current inhibition contributes to the cardioprotective effect of 9‐phenanthrol.

Experimental Approach

Single ventricular myocytes (VMs) and Purkinje cells (PCs) were enzymatically isolated from rabbits. Arterially perfused rabbit wedge preparations were also used, and transmural electrocardiogram and endocardial action potentials (APs) were simultaneously recorded. Wild‐type and mutated human recombinant SCN5A were expressed in HEK293 cells. Anemonia toxin II (ATX‐II) was used to amplify the late sodium current (INaL) and induce arrhythmias. Whole‐cell patch clamp technique was used to record APs and ionic currents.

Key Results

9‐Phenanthrol (10–50 μM) stabilized ventricular repolarization and abolished arrhythmias induced by ATX‐II in both isolated VMs, PCs and wedge preparations. Further study revealed that 9‐phenanthrol modulated the gating properties of cardiac sodium channels and dose‐dependently inhibited INaL and peak sodium current (INaP) in VMs with an IC50 of 18 and 71.5 μM respectively. Its ability to inhibit INaL was further confirmed in PCs and HEK293 cells expressing SCN5A mutations.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results indicate that 9‐phenanthrol modulates the gating properties of cardiac sodium channels and inhibits INaL and INaP, which may contribute to its antiarrhythmic and cardioprotective effects.
Structural and depositional controls on Plio‐Pleistocene submarine channel geometry (Taranaki Basin, New Zealand)
Authors: Mattos Nathalia H. , Alves Tiago M. , Scully Aisling
Published: August 2018

High‐quality 3D seismic data are used to investigate the effect of the Parihaka Fault on the geometry of submarine channels in Northern Graben of the Taranaki Basin, New Zealand. The Parihaka Fault comprises of four segments (S1–S4) with variable displacements. As part of the Plio‐Pleistocene Giant Foresets Formation, the older Channel Complex Systems 1 and 2 reveal a two‐stage evolution: (a) a syn‐tectonic depositional stage with channels incising the slope during early fault growth (ca. 4.5 Ma) and (b) a stage of sediment bypass (ca. 3 Ma) leading to the infill of hanging‐wall depocentres. The Channel Complex System 3 is syn‐tectonic relative to segment S3 and was formed at ca. 2.5 Ma. We show that the successive generation of new fault segments towards the north controlled the formation of depocentres in the study area. This occurred in association to rotation and uplift of the footwall block of the Parihaka Fault and subsidence of its hanging‐wall block, with fault activity controlling the orientation of channel systems. As a result, we observe three drainage types in the study area: oblique, transverse and parallel to the Parihaka Fault. This work is important as it shows that relay zones separating the Parihaka Fault segments had limited influence on the geometry and location of channel systems. Submarine channels were diverted from their original courses close to the Parihaka Fault and flowed transversally to fault segments instead of running through relay ramps, contrasting to what is often recorded in the literature. A plausible explanation for such a discrepancy relates to rapid progradation of the Giant Foresets Formation during the Plio‐Pleistocene, with channel complexes becoming less confined, favouring footwall incision and basinward deposition of submarine fans.
Roles of microRNAs in mammalian reproduction: from the commitment of germ cells to peri‐implantation embryos
Authors: Reza Abu Musa Md Talimur , Choi Yun‐Jung , Han Sung Gu , Song Hyuk , Park Chankyu , Hong Kwonho , Kim Jin‐Hoi
Published: August 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are active regulators of numerous biological and physiological processes including most of the events of mammalian reproduction. Understanding the biological functions of miRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow a better and comparative understanding of fertility and sterility in male and female mammals. Herein, we summarize recent progress in miRNA‐mediated regulation of mammalian reproduction and highlight the significance of miRNAs in different aspects of mammalian reproduction including the biogenesis of germ cells, the functionality of reproductive organs, and the development of early embryos. Furthermore, we focus on the gene expression regulatory feedback loops involving hormones and miRNA expression to increase our understanding of germ cell commitment and the functioning of reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on male and female reproductive failure, and provide perspectives for future studies on this topic.
Paternal psychological distress, parenting, and child behaviour: A population based, cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gulenc Alisha , Butler Emma , Sarkadi Anna , Hiscock Harriet
Published: August 2018

Background

Child behaviour problems are common and can lead to later mental health problems. Poor maternal mental health and adverse parenting practices are known risk factors for child behaviour problems. Less is known about the association between paternal mental health and parenting, and child behaviour. We aimed to explore the association between paternal psychological distress and parenting (harsh discipline, low warmth, unreasonable expectations, and overinvolved/protectiveness) with children's internalising and externalising behaviour at 3 years of age.

Methods

Cross‐sectional surveys of 669 (80% response) fathers of 3‐year‐old children, nested within a randomised controlled trial. Main outcomes of behaviour (Child Behavior Checklist), parenting (Parent Behavior Checklist and overinvolved/protective parenting scale), and psychological distress (Kessler‐6) were measured. Regression modelling examined the associations between paternal factors and child behaviour, adjusting for maternal mental health and parenting, as well as child and family variables.

Results

In adjusted analyses, paternal psychological distress (b = 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.26–0.60], p < 0.001), harsh discipline (b = 0.20, 95% CI [0.13–0.27], p < 0.001), and maternal mental health (b = 0.08, 95% CI [0.03–0.12], p = 0.001) were associated with externalising symptoms. However, only paternal psychological distress, harsh discipline, and being a boy were associated with borderline/clinical levels of externalising problems (all p < 0.05). Paternal psychological distress, harsh discipline, overinvolved parenting, maternal mental health, and difficult child temperament were associated with internalising symptoms (all p < 0.05). However, only paternal harsh discipline and overinvolved parenting were associated with borderline/clinical internalising problems.

Conclusions

Paternal mental health and parenting are independently associated with child behaviour. Treatments for children with behavioural problems should also address paternal mental health and parenting.
Social workers' attitudes towards female victims of domestic violence: A study in one English local authority
Authors: Witt Laura , Diaz Clive
Published: August 2018

This paper aims to explore childcare social workers' attitudes towards female victims of domestic violence in England. The study discusses the concept of “mothering” and the processes through which mothers are potentially denigrated rather than empowered. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with social workers in a single child protection agency to investigate their perceptions of domestic violence, its gendered nature, and the implications for their practice. Participants' responses were coded using thematic analysis. The results demonstrated social workers' cognisance of the challenges domestic violence poses for abused mothers in terms of the ability to safely parent their children. Although the study is not without its limitations, it nevertheless indicates the need for a more holistic approach to safeguarding children within domestic violence settings. Moreover, it underscores the necessity for improving awareness about the prevalence and importance of domestic violence as a child safeguarding concern within social work training. Indeed, improved training would help to develop social workers' knowledge and understanding of service provisions and partner agencies, thus potentially improving practice in this critically important area.
Trade and conservation implications of new beak and feather disease virus detection in native and introduced parrots
Authors: Fogell Deborah J. , Martin Rowan O. , Bunbury Nancy , Lawson Becki , Sells James , McKeand Alison M. , Tatayah Vikash , Trung Cao Tien , Groombridge Jim J.
Published: August 2018

Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD), caused by Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), has spread rapidly around the world, raising concerns for threatened species conservation and biosecurity associated with the global pet bird trade. The virus has been reported in several wild parrot populations, but data are lacking for many taxa and geographical areas with high parrot endemism. We aimed to advance understanding of BFDV distribution in many data‐deficient areas and determine phylogenetic and biogeographic associations of the virus in 5 parrot species across Africa, the Indian Ocean islands, Asia, and Europe and focused specifically on the highly traded and invasivePsittacula krameri. Blood, feather, and tissue samples were screened for BFDV through standard polymerase chain reaction. Isolates obtained from positive individuals were then analyzed in a maximum likelihood phylogeny along with all other publically available global BFDV sequences. We detected BFDV in 8 countries where it was not known to occur previously, indicating the virus is more widely distributed than currently recognized. We documented for the first time the presence of BFDV in wild populations ofP. krameriwithin its native range in Asia and Africa. We detected BFDV among introducedP. krameriin Mauritius and the Seychelles, raising concerns for island endemic species in the region. Phylogenetic relationships between viral sequences showed likely pathways of transmission between populations in southern Asia and western Africa. A high degree of phylogenetic relatedness between viral variants from geographically distant populations suggests recent introductions, likely driven by global trade. These findings highlight the need for effective regulation of international trade in live parrots, particularly in regions with high parrot endemism or vulnerable taxa whereP. kramericould act as a reservoir host.
Chronic ulcerative stomatitis: Case series of an under‐recognized entity
Authors: Ko Eugene M. , Danciu Theodora E. , Fullen Douglas R. , Chan May P.
Published: August 2018

Chronic ulcerative stomatitis (CUS) is a mucocutaneous condition characterized by chronic relapsing and remitting oral ulcers and erosions. This condition remains under‐recognized among dermatopathologists, possibly because of common misdiagnosis as oral erosive lichen planus (LP). We report five cases of CUS in order to raise awareness of this uncommon condition. All patients presented with desquamative gingivitis and/or oral erosions, with biopsies showing lichenoid mucositis and epithelial nuclear IgG deposition on direct immunofluorescence. Recognition of the characteristic direct immunofluorescence findings allows for distinction of chronic ulcerative stomatitis from oral LP and appropriate therapy.
Measuring drug dependence in police custody: An item response theory and differential item function analysis of UNCOPE in Australia
Authors: Payne Jason , Wong Gabriel
Published: August 2018

Introduction and Aims

Although there has been significant investment in policies and programs aimed at preventing drug‐related crime, there has been comparatively little effort dedicated to the validation the relevant research and evidence gathering tools. In this study, we aim to confirm the internal consistency of UNCOPE, developed by Hoffmann and colleagues, in the Australian context, as well as explore whether time in custody and prior custodial experience results in differential item functioning.

Design and Methods

Data were derived from the Australian Institute of Criminology's Drug Use Monitoring in Australia Program in which the UNCOPE instrument had been administered with 15 454 detainees who reported illicit drug use in the past 12 months. Item response theory methods are used to explore the characteristics of all six items, while Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes and likelihood ratio differential item functioning test methods are used to explore differential item functioning.

Results

Strong support is indicated for the internal consistency of the UNCOPE instrument. Modest differential functioning is identified for only one item, indicating that prolonged periods of detention prior to interview may influence the probability of endorsement for items that require introspection and reflection on drug‐related neglect. These modest effects are unlikely to have any practical effect on the overall utility of UNCOPE.

Discussion and Conclusions

In these analyses, the item characteristics of UNCOPE appear consistent with results seen in the USA. Further, the modest differential item functioning identified for neglect (item N) has no practical impact on the overall functioning on UNCOPE. Criminal justice and drug policy researchers will be comforted by the absence of any substantial implementation or environmental bias.
Using large spatial scale camera trap data and hierarchical occupancy models to evaluate species richness and occupancy of rare and elusive wildlife communities in southwest China
Authors: Li Xueyou , Bleisch William V. , Jiang Xuelong
Published: August 2018

Aim

Owing to the broad use of camera traps, integration and standardization among camera trap studies has become key to maximizing their utility for local and global biodiversity conservation. Our goal was to introduce the use of a hierarchical modelling framework in the context of coordinated biodiversity monitoring to compare species richness and occupancy by integrating camera trap data from multiple study areas.

Location

Southwest China.

Methods

We used hierarchical occupancy models to integrate camera trap data for elusive mammal and pheasant communities from three study areas representing different habitat types: alpine and subalpine zones, dry‐hot valleys and subtropical montane forests. We evaluate the responses of species occurrence to human influence and habitat parameters based on a Bayesian approach.

Results

We captured photographs of 23 mammal and 7 pheasant species over 10,095 trap nights. The model revealed that the alpine and subalpine zones supported the highest species richness of the target communities among the three habitat types. Surprisingly, dry‐hot valleys supported similar levels of species richness to subtropical montane forest. Species richness showed a similar bell‐shaped relationship with elevation, with the richness curve peaking at intermediate elevations at about 3500 m above sea level (asl). Posterior distributions for community‐level hyper‐parameters indicated the consistent and negative effects of human disturbance on species occupancy. The community model also revealed a strong quadratic relationship between elevation and occupancy, with the highest occupancy occurring at about 3700 m asl.

Main conclusion

Using hierarchical occupancy models for integrating camera trap data from multiple study areas, we show that alpine/subalpine zone and dry‐hot valleys have the highest richness and should be given more priority for conservation of biodiversity in southwest China. We recommend broader application of the hierarchical occupancy modelling approach to camera trap data to obtain more comprehensive insights relevant to regional biodiversity conservation.
Endoscopic nasobiliary drainage tube‐guided scope insertion technique for internal drainage in a case of difficult selective biliary duct guiding
Authors: Takenaka Mamoru , Minaga Kosuke , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: August 2018

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Endoscopic suturing device with Overstitch for esophageal stent fixation
Authors: Li Xuan , Zhang Weifeng , Zhang Guoxin
Published: August 2018

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School climate is associated with cortical thickness and executive function in children and adolescents
Authors: Piccolo Luciane R , Merz Emily C , Noble Kimberly G ,   the Pediatric Imaging, Neurocognition, and Genetics Study
Published: August 2018

A positive school climate has been found to support mental and physical health, academic achievement and social adjustment among youth. However, links between school climate and brain structure have not been investigated to date. In this study, we investigated whether school climate was associated with executive function (EF) and brain structure (cortical thickness and surface area) in children and adolescents. We further examined whether these links varied as a function of socioeconomic background. Participants who ranged from 9 to 18 years of age (N = 108) completed EF tasks and a high‐resolution, 3‐Tesla, T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Overall school climate, academic support, and family socioeconomic background were assessed using questionnaires. Higher academic support was associated with greater EF task performance and increased global cortical thickness. Additionally, academic support moderated the association between family income and EF, such that children from lower income families performed similarly to their more advantaged peers on EF tasks in the context of positive academic support. This work is the first to link school climate to brain structure and contributes to the growing body of evidence suggesting that academic support may be an important protective factor in the context of socioeconomic disadvantage.
An intervention that increases parental sensitivity in families referred to Child Protective Services also changes toddlers’ parasympathetic regulation
Authors: Hastings Paul D , Kahle Sarah , Fleming Charles , Lohr Mary Jane , Katz Lynn Fainsilber , Oxford Monica L
Published: August 2018

Experiencing maltreatment in early childhood predicts poor parasympathetic regulation, characterized by low baseline parasympathetic activity and strong withdrawal of parasympathetic influence in response to tasks. The Promoting First Relationships® (PFR) program improves parental sensitivity toward young children in families identified as maltreating. Using a subsample from a randomized control trial, we examined whether parental participation in PFR had lasting effects on toddlers’ parasympathetic regulation, as measured by respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), relative to a resource and referral control condition. In addition, we examined whether parental sensitive and responsive behavior mediated or moderated associations between parent treatment group and children's RSA. More than 6 months after completing treatment, 29 families in the PFR condition and 30 families in the control condition were visited at home, and toddlers’ RSA was assessed at baseline and during five moderately challenging tasks. Groups did not differ in baseline RSA, but differed in RSA reactivity to the tasks. Across tasks, toddlers of parents in the control condition manifested significantly larger RSA decreases than toddlers of parents in the PFR condition. Parental behavior showed divergent associations with RSA change for toddlers of parents in the PFR versus control condition, with PFR treatment predicting RSA change ranging from small decreases to increases in toddlers of parents who showed the most sensitive, responsive behavior in the 6 months following treatment. This preliminary study showed that the same intervention that improved parenting also improved toddlers’ parasympathetic regulation in response to everyday activities, warranting further experimental investigation.
Learning to read in Chinese: Evidence for reciprocal relationships between word reading and oral language skills
Authors: Hulme Charles , Zhou Lulin , Tong Xiuli , Lervåg Arne , Burgoyne Kelly
Published: August 2018

This study investigates the longitudinal predictors of the development of Chinese word reading skills and potential bidirectional relationships between Chinese word reading and oral language skills. We examine, in a 2‐year longitudinal study, a wide range of theoretically important predictors (phonological awareness, tone awareness, morphological awareness, visual skills, rapid automatized naming, Pinyin knowledge, and vocabulary knowledge) of reading in 143 primary‐school children living in mainland China. Initial levels of reading were predicted by vocabulary knowledge, phonological awareness, and visual discrimination skills. Only initial reading levels predicted growth in reading. Initial reading also predicted growth in vocabulary knowledge and morphological construction. This pattern demonstrates that the early stages of learning to read in Chinese places demands on semantic (vocabulary) and visual skills in addition to phonological skills. Furthermore, early levels of word reading predict the growth of vocabulary knowledge and morphological awareness suggesting that the development of these oral language skills is facilitated by learning to read.
Child neurodevelopment and mental health after surgical ventricular septal defect repair: risk and protective factors
Authors: Eichler Anna , Köhler‐Jonas Nicola , Stonawski Valeska , Purbojo Ariawan , Moll Gunther H , Heinrich Hartmut , Cesnjevar Robert A , Kratz Oliver
Published: August 2018

Aim

This case–control study examined the long‐term consequences of surgical correction for ventricular septal defect (VSD; the most common congenital heart defect) in infancy. It assessed children who had undergone VSD surgery and the factors related to maternal conditions, surgery, and hospital stay.

Method

Thirty‐nine children (23 females, 16 males; age range 6y 1mo–9y 7mo [mean 7y 4mo, SD 1y]) with repaired isolated, non‐syndromic, non‐genetic VSD were compared with 39 typically developing children (22 females, 17 males; age range 6y–9y 2mo [mean 7y 3mo, SD 10mo]). The children completed behavioural tests of neurodevelopment and a quality of life (QoL) questionnaire. Mothers rated children's emotional/behavioural symptoms and QoL. Measures of maternal parenting behaviour and psychopathology were treated as moderators.

Results

Affected children showed reduced language skills (p=0.002) unless mothers reported high parenting behaviour subscale scores (p=0.04). Children's anxiety symptoms were elevated when mothers had anxiety symptoms (p=0.01). Longer hospital stay was associated with lower intelligence (p=0.003) and psychomotor scores (p=0.006). Longer scars predicted elevated child anxiety (p=0.008), and age at surgery and QoL were inversely related (p=0.01).

Interpretation

Impairments could be mitigated if VSD repair was performed early in life with a relatively small scar and uncomplicated hospital stay. This outcome depends on maternal parenting behaviour and anxiety symptoms.

What this paper adds

Children's cognitive and psychomotor development after surgical ventricular septal defect repair was unimpaired.

Children showed no mental health restrictions when their mothers reported few anxiety symptoms themselves.

Language impairments might be preventable by pro‐active parenting.

The outcome also depends on variables related to surgery and hospital stay.
Lower limb muscle fatigue during walking in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Eken Maaike M , Brændvik Siri M , Bardal Ellen Marie , Houdijk Han , Dallmeijer Annet J , Roeleveld Karin
Published: August 2018

Aim

To investigate whether more prominent signs of muscle fatigue occur during self‐paced walking in children with cerebral palsy (CP) compared to typically developing peers.

Method

In this case–control study, 13 children with CP (four males, nine females; mean age [SD] 11y 4mo [3y 8mo]; nine in Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] level I, three in GMFCS level II, and one in GMFCS level III) and 14 typically developing peers (nine males, five females; mean age [SD] 9y 10mo [1y 10mo]) walked 5 minutes overground at a self‐selected walking speed. Electromyography (EMG) median frequency and root mean square (RMS) were identified per gait cycle from EMG recordings of the tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius medialis, soleus, rectus femoris, and semitendinosus. Rate of change in those variables was analysed using mixed linear model analyses.

Results

The decrease in EMG median frequency of gastrocnemius medialis and soleus and increase in EMG‐RMS of tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius medialis, and soleus were significantly larger in the most affected leg of children with CP compared with typically developing peers.

Interpretation

Increased selective muscle fatigue of the lower leg muscles was observed during self‐paced walking in children with mild‐to‐moderate severe CP. This could contribute to and account for limited walking capacity.

What this paper adds

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) show more signs of lower leg muscle fatigue than typically developing peers.

No signs of muscle fatigue were observed in upper leg muscles of children with CP.
Optimal pheromone trap density for mass trapping cacao mirids
Authors: Sarfo Joseph E. , Campbell Colin A.M. , Hall David R.
Published: August 2018

Sahlbergella singularis Haglund and Distantiella theobroma (Distant) (Heteroptera: Miridae) are the key insect pests of cacao in Ghana and elsewhere in West Africa. Since 1954, spraying with synthetic insecticides has been the principal means of controlling these pests. In West Africa, environmental concerns, economic stimuli, and unreliable access to insecticides have stimulated interest in ecologically more benign mirid control strategies as an alternative to a total reliance on insecticides. Males of both mirid species, and those of the less damaging Bryocoropsis laticollis Schumacher, respond to the same synthetic sex pheromone blend, so pheromone‐based strategies may provide control as well as monitoring opportunities. Pheromone traps were deployed for 3 months at nine densities between two and 30 traps per 0.1 ha plot (20–300 traps ha−1) plus an untreated control treatment in a replicated large‐scale field experiment on mature mixed Upper Amazon hybrid cacao in Ghana, in order to determine the optimal dispenser density for mass trapping, lure‐and‐kill, and/or lure‐and‐infect. At the end of the trapping period, mirid populations in the various treatments were assessed by insecticide knockdown on 400 trees and by searches to hand height on 1 200 trees, together with an assessment of mirid damage. In total 781 S. singularis and 235 D. theobroma were captured in the pheromone traps. The optimal dispenser density for S. singularis was 150 traps ha−1. Over 300 traps ha−1 was probably optimal for D. theobroma as a smaller proportion of the population was captured, and numbers caught per trap displayed no decline with increasing trap density. From insecticide knockdowns, mirid population density was estimated at 220–230 ha−1, 63% of which were D. theobroma. Too few pods and orthotropic shoots were damaged by mirids to establish the efficacy of pheromone trapping for mirid control.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated demyelination: comparison between onset phenotypes
Authors: Zhou Y. , Jia X. , Yang H. , Chen C. , Sun X. , Peng L. , Kermode A. G. , Qiu W.
Published: August 2018

Background and purpose

The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical and prognostic features of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody‐associated demyelination with different onset phenotypes.

Methods

A total of 52 MOG‐IgG‐seropositive patients were divided into four groups: (i) optic neuritis (ON) at onset (MOG‐ON+, n = 23), (ii) transverse myelitis (TM) at onset (MOG‐TM+, n = 12), (iii) pure brain symptoms at onset (MOG‐ON−‐TM−, n = 14) and (iv) both ON and TM at onset (n = 3). This final group was not included in further analyses. Data were collected through medical records and regular follow‐up.

Results

Median age at presentation was 24 (range, 3–63) years in the whole cohort (50% female). MOG‐ON−‐TM− patients had the youngest age of onset across the three groups. Patients with MOG‐TM+ tended to relapse more frequently and had a longer interval to first relapse than was observed in MOG‐ON+ and MOG‐ON−‐TM− patients. High MOG‐IgG titres were associated with increased cerebrospinal fluid leukocytes. The likelihood of harbouring transient, low MOG‐IgG titres was higher in the MOG‐TM+ group than in the other groups. After a median disease duration of 20 months, most but not all cases had a favourable outcome, with 8% developing severe visual deficit, 2% becoming wheelchair‐dependent and 6% developing cognitive impairment. The onset phenotype appeared to be an important predictor of disability type. Having high MOG‐IgG titres (odds ratio, 0.168, P = 0.027) or female gender (odds ratio, 0.270, P = 0.067) was associated with a lower likelihood of complete recovery.

Conclusions

Onset phenotype may influence long‐term presentation, MOG‐IgG status as well as outcome. Further large and prospective studies are needed to better clarify the clinical implications of the first demyelinating event.
Ecosystem structure and function of afrotropical streams with contrasting land use
Authors: Fugère Vincent , Jacobsen Dean , Finestone Erin H. , Chapman Lauren J.
Published: August 2018

Land use changes can strongly influence stream ecosystems, yet these effects remain poorly documented in many hotspots of deforestation such as tropical Africa. The few studies conducted in this region have mostly focused on structural aspects of stream integrity; sparse data are available for key ecosystem processes such as ecosystem metabolism and litter decomposition.

To address this knowledge gap, we measured multiple ecosystem functions in rainforest and nearby agricultural (farm) streams located in an afrotropical deforestation hotspot. In two farm and forest stream pairs, we quantified the standing stock biomass of basal resources and invertebrate functional feeding groups, measured rates of litter decomposition (microbial and shredder‐mediated) and modelled invertebrate secondary production. We also calculated whole‐stream metabolic parameters over multiple weeks. To test the regional generality of our results, we then reanalysed a published dataset and assessed the functional composition of invertebrate communities from many local streams.

We found that farm streams had greater algal standing stocks, gross primary production (GPP) and production‐to‐respiration ratios than forest streams, although they remained strongly heterotrophic with relatively low GPP values. Agricultural land use also led to the almost complete extirpation of invertebrate shredders, resulting in much slower litter decomposition rates at farm than forest sites despite comparable rates of microbial decomposition. Finally, farm streams had lower invertebrate biomass despite abundant basal resources, leading to a 41%–66% reduction in estimated invertebrate production.

We speculate that the functional response of our streams to agricultural land use (i.e., a modest increase in GPP but large declines in invertebrate production and shredder‐mediated litter decomposition rates) could be common across the afrotropics due to low fertiliser usage in this region and/or features of the local fauna. Although our study focuses a small number of streams, the large effect sizes that we report suggest that afrotropical streams could be strongly affected by rapid land use changes in the region, highlighting the need for additional research, monitoring, and conservation efforts in this poorly studied area of the world that is under increasing human pressures.
Public involvement in health and social sciences research: A concept analysis
Authors: Hughes Mel , Duffy Catherine
Published: August 2018

Background

Research funding bodies have significantly increased emphasis on the need for public involvement in research with the requirement to evidence effective methods and approaches to achieving this. Specific definitions and approaches within published research remain tokenistic and vague.

Objective

The concept analysis explores and clarifies the nature and meaning of public involvement in health and social sciences research and identifies operational definitions which can be used to guide, develop and evaluate public involvement in research activity.

Search strategy

A literature search was conducted using online databases. Systematic literature reviews and broader studies on the impact of PPI were included as was grey literature such as guidance from INVOLVE and research funding bodies. Limits were set to papers published in the last 10 years and in the English language. A concept analysis framework adapted from Rodgers (Concept Development in Nursing: Foundations, Techniques and Applications. London, UK: Saunders; 2000) and Walker and Avant (Strategies for Theory construction in Nursing. Boston, MA: Pearson Prentice Hall; 2005) was applied.

Main results

Five operational definitions were developed from the concept analysis: undefined involvement; targeted consultation; embedded consultation; co‐production; and user‐led research. Typical examples of each approach were identified from the literature. Defining attributes included having clear and agreed meaning and purpose for any involvement; reciprocal relationships; and value and recognition of the expertise of all those involved.

Conclusions

The authors argue the need for researchers to more explicitly incorporate and evaluate details of approaches used. Impact of public involvement on a research study should be identified when reporting on findings to prevent tokenistic practices where involvement is viewed as secondary to the core research process.
Does CSF1 overexpression or rearrangement influence biological behaviour in tenosynovial giant cell tumours of the knee?
Authors: Mastboom Monique J L , Hoek Daisy M , Bovée Judith V M G , van de Sande Michiel A J , Szuhai Károly
Published: August 2018

Aims

Localised‐ and diffuse‐type tenosynovial giant cell tumours (TGCT) are regarded as different clinical and radiological TGCT types. However, genetically and histopathologically they seem indistinguishable. We aimed to correlate CSF1 expression and CSF1 rearrangement with the biological behaviour of different TGCT‐types with clinical outcome (recurrence).

Methods and results

Along a continuum of extremes, therapy‐naive knee TGCT patients with >3‐year follow‐up, mean age 43 (range = 6–71) years and 56% females were selected. Nine localised (two recurrences), 16 diffuse‐type (nine recurrences) and four synovitis as control were included. Rearrangement of the CSF1 locus was evaluated with split‐apart fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation (FISH) probes. Regions were selected to score after identifying CSF1‐expressing regions, using mRNA ISH with the help of digital correlative microscopy. CSF1 rearrangement was considered positive in samples containing >2 split signals/100 nuclei. Irrespective of TGCT‐subtype, all cases showed CSF1 expression and in 76% CSF1 rearrangement was detected. Quantification of CSF1‐expressing cells was not informative, due to the extensive intratumour heterogeneity. Of the four synovitis cases, two also showed CSF1 expression without CSF1 rearrangement. No correlation between CSF1 expression or rearrangement with clinical subtype and local recurrence was detected. Both localised and diffuse TGCT cases showed a scattered distribution in the tissue of CSF1‐expressing cells.

Conclusion

In diagnosing TGCT, CSF1 mRNA‐ISH, in combination with CSF1 split‐apart FISH using digital correlative microscopy, is an auxiliary diagnostic tool to identify rarely occurring neoplastic cells. This combined approach allowed us to detect CSF1 rearrangement in 76% of the TGCT cases. Neither CSF1 expression nor presence of CSF1 rearrangement could be associated with the difference in biological behaviour of TGCT.
Longitudinal evaluation of markers of inflammation in HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative Rwandan women
Authors: Kiefer EM , Hoover DR , Shi Q , Dusingize JC , Sinayobye JD , Anastos K
Published: August 2018

Objectives

African women are disproportionately affected by HIV infection and may experience non‐AIDS‐related complications associated with inflammation. High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), d‐dimer and transthyretin have been examined as inflammatory markers elsewhere, but it is unclear how they change over time in HIV‐negative or HIV‐positive African women with or without antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation.

Methods

We examined hsCRP, d‐dimer and transthyretin levels at baseline and at follow‐up of ≥2 years in 185 HIV‐negative and 510 HIV‐positive Rwandan women who were ART naïve at study entry. Generalized estimating equations for each marker were used to investigate the association with HIV infection/CD4 count, ART and follow‐up time.

Results

Compared with HIV‐negative women, HIV‐positive women had higher hsCRP and d‐dimer and lower transthyretin concentrations, with greater differences at lower CD4 counts. After adjusting for CD4 count and other factors, ART was not significantly associated with log hsCRP (P = 0.36) at follow‐up, but was independently associated with lower log d‐dimer (P = 0.03) and higher transthyretin (P = 0.0008) concentrations. At ≥ 2 years of follow‐up, hsCRP had not significantly changed in any group but log d‐dimer had decreased significantly in all groups. Transthyretin declined significantly over time in HIV‐negative women and HIV‐positive non‐ART initiators, but increased significantly in HIV‐positive ART initiators.

Conclusions

HIV infection and advanced immune suppression were associated with higher hsCRP and d‐dimer and lower transthyretin concentrations. ART (independently of CD4 changes) was significantly associated with decreases in d‐dimer and increases in transthyretin, but, in contrast to other studies, was not associated with decreases in hsCRP. We found no change in hsCRP over time in any group.
Peripheral artery disease in HIV‐infected older adults on antiretroviral treatment in Thailand
Authors: Aurpibul L , Sugandhavesa P , Srithanaviboonchai K , Sitthi W , Tangmunkongvorakul A , Chariyalertsak C , Rerkasem K
Published: August 2018

Objectives

HIV infection has become a chronic disease requiring long‐term treatment. Premature cardiovascular disease resulting from atherosclerosis in the HIV‐infected population has been observed. We assessed the prevalence of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a common consequence of atherosclerosis, in HIV‐infected patients aged ≥ 50 years receiving antiretroviral treatment (ART).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in 12 community hospitals in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) age ≥ 50 years, (2) positive HIV status, and (3) currently receiving ART. Age‐ and sex‐matched hospital patients without documented HIV infection were enrolled as a comparison group. Clinical data were extracted from hospital records. Personal information and details of PAD‐related symptoms were obtained through face‐to‐face interviews. The diagnosis of PAD was made using ankle‐brachial index (ABI) measurement.

Results

Seven hundred and twenty‐four participants were enrolled in the study (362 HIV‐infected patients and 362 patients in the comparison group). In the HIV‐infected group, 43% were male; the mean (± standard deviation) age was 57.8 ± 5.6 years. The mean (± standard deviation) times from HIV diagnosis and ART initiation were 10.0 ± 4.3 and 8.6 ± 3.5 years, respectively. The prevalence of abnormal ABI (< 1.00) was significantly lower in the HIV‐infected group than in the comparison group (20 versus 27%, respectively; P = 0.03), while that of PAD (ABI ≤ 0.90) was not significantly different between the two groups (5 and 7%, respectively). In the HIV‐infected group, female sex and low body mass index were independently associated with abnormal ABI.

Conclusions

The prevalence of PAD when measured by ABI in HIV‐infected older adults was relatively low. A follow‐up study to determine the incidence of PAD and its persistence with time is warranted.
The food neophobia scale and young adults’ intention to eat insect products
Authors: Sogari Giovanni , Menozzi Davide , Mora Cristina
Published: August 2018

In the coming years, the new EU Regulation on Novel Food is likely to facilitate the development of a niche market for insects and insect‐based ingredients in many European countries. In this research, the aim is to explore the relationship between willingness to try (WTT) and behavior of eating insects, where the independent variables are food neophobia, sensory property expectations, and previous consumption. In total, 88 Italian participants took part in the study. The food neophobia scale (FNS) was constructed using 9 of the 10 items from the original FNS, and a Structural Equation Modeling approach was used to test the research hypotheses. The results show that males are more open to trying insects than females, and food neophobia is negatively correlated with the willingness to eat insects. Findings also indicate that the first exposure to insects positively increases consumers’ sensory property expectations. Intention to try is a strong predictor of the behavior of eating insects. People who scored lower on the FNS were more likely to try (intention) and consequently eat insects (behavior). These findings enhance knowledge about factors which could lead to lower levels of negative prejudice and greater willingness to taste edible insects among Western consumers. Finally, some marketing implications are discussed, like the need of information campaigns to emphasize positive sensory attributes of edible insects to increase the WTT this unfamiliar food.
Utility of a sensor‐based technology to assist in the prevention of pressure ulcers: A clinical comparison
Authors: Raizman Rose , MacNeil Minette , Rappl Laurie
Published: August 2018

Detection of subcutaneous tissue damage before it is visible can trigger early intervention and decrease hospital‐acquired pressure ulcer (HAPU) rates. The objective of this two‐phase study was to evaluate the clinical utility of the Sub‐Epidermal Moisture (SEM) Scanner (Bruin Biometrics (BBI), LLC), a hand‐held device that assesses increases in interstitial fluid or subepidermal moisture, indicating early tissue damage. Phase 1: Patients were provided standard‐of‐care risk assessment and interventions and were scanned with the SEM Scanner, but the resulting SEM scores were not used to determine interventions. This gave a baseline pressure ulcer incidence rate. Phase 2: This phase is the same as Phase 1 except the resulting SEM scores were used in conjunction with risk assessment scores to determine appropriate interventions and care planning. In Phase 1, 12 of the 89 subjects or 13.5% developed visible pressure ulcers—4 Stage I's, 6 Stage II's, 1 Stage III, and 1 deep tissue injury. In Phase 2, 2 of the 195 subjects or 1.0% developed visible pressure ulcers—1 Stage I and 1 Stage II. Patients in Phase 2 were more incontinent, less mobile, and had longer lengths of stay than those in Phase 1. Use of the Scanner resulted in a 93% decrease in HAPU. No deep injuries developed in Phase 2.
The impact of atopic dermatitis on sexual health
Authors: Misery L. , Seneschal J. , Reguiai Z. , Merhand S. , Héas S. , Huet F. , Taieb C. , Ezzedine K.
Published: August 2018

Background

Sexual health is frequently affected by chronic diseases but has been poorly investigated in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objective

To evaluate the risk factors for impaired sexual desire and its relationship with the burden and quality of life of patients with AD.

Methods

A multicentre prospective transversal study in patients with AD. Socio‐demographic and clinical data were obtained from all patients using a specifically developed questionnaire. In addition, patients were asked to answer validated scales, that is ABS‐A, DLQI, SF‐12 and EQ‐5D.

Results

A total of 1024 patients participated in the study. Severity of AD, sites involved and treatment type was found to negatively impact the sexual desire of patients and their partners. In addition, the involvement of the genital and visible areas was associated with a higher burden and more significant alterations in quality of life.

Conclusions

The results of this study are substantial and clearly demonstrate the deep impact of AD on sexual health, its relationship with disease‐related burden and alterations to quality of life. Psychosociological as well as neurosensory phenomena could help to understand these data.
A novel divergent group of Ostreid herpesvirus 1 μVar variants associated with a mortality event in Pacific oyster spat in Normandy (France) in 2016
Authors: Burioli Erika A. V. , Varello Katia , Lavazza Antonio , Bozzetta Elena , Prearo Marino , Houssin Maryline
Published: August 2018

The acute course of disease in young oysters infected by OsHV‐1 and the rapid tissue degradation often preclude histological examination of specimens collected during outbreaks in field. Herein, live spat originated from two geographical areas were sampled just at the onset of a mortality event that occurred in Normandy (France) in June 2016. The lesions, associated with high OsHV‐1 DNA quantities, were characterized by severe and diffuse haemocytosis mainly involving blast‐like cells, myocyte degeneration and large, irregularly shaped degenerate eosinophilic cells in the connective tissue. The herpesvirus was identified by negative staining TEM and real‐time PCR. Sequencing of the C region and ORFs 42/43 confirmed that the variants met the definition of OsHV‐1 μVar. We sequenced 30 other ORFs in twenty OsHV‐1‐positive individuals and compared them to the μVar specimens isolated between 2009 and 2011. The ORFs encoding putative membrane proteins showed the highest number of variations. Seven different genotypes were identified, confirming the presence of relevant genetic diversity. Phylogenetic analysis provided evidence for a well‐separated μVar new group, with an evolutionary divergence estimated at 0.0013 from the other μVar variants. The geographical distribution of these newly described variants and their effective virulence should be investigated in future.