bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Brodifacoum and other Rodenticides in Drug Mixtures using Thermal Desorption Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry (TD‐DART‐MS)
Authors: Robinson Elizabeth L. , Sisco Edward
Published: December 2018

In recent months, there has been increased reporting of seized drug and toxicology cases containing rodenticides, the active ingredient in rat poisons. Seeing as rodenticides are not scheduled substances, they are not commonly screened for in seized drug analysis. This work investigates the use ofTD‐DART‐MSfor the simultaneous detection of rodenticides and drugs. Six rodenticides were evaluated, an optimal method was established, and limits of detection in the tens of nanograms were calculated. Additional studies highlight that detection at less than 1% by weight in mixtures withAB‐FUBINACA, cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine was possible. This work presents an optimized method for detection of these compounds, allowing for the simultaneous detection of drugs and rodenticides, providing drug chemists with a tool for rapid identification of these compounds for forensic or public health purposes.
Performance of the Surgical Outcomes Monitoring and Improvement Program in comparison to Portsmouth Physiological and Operative Severity Score for enUmeration of Mortality and Morbidity and National Surgery Quality Improvement Program calculators in predicting mortality for emergency colectomy: A retrospective case series study
Authors: Lee Martin S.C. , Wong Yu‐Yan , Yau Kelvin Kai‐Wing , Chan Canon Kin‐On
Published: December 2018

Aim

The National Surgery Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) and Portsmouth Physiological and Operative Severity Score for enUmeration of Mortality and Morbidity (P‐POSSUM) are well‐established risk calculators employed by surgeons worldwide to calculate predicted surgical mortality and morbidity. Since 2008, the Hospital Authority has implemented the Surgical Outcomes Monitoring and Improvement Program (SOMIP) for auditing of 30‐day mortality in emergency surgery. In the present study, we aimed to compare the performance of this locally‐developed risk calculator with NSQIP and P‐POSSUM for 30‐day mortality predictions in patients undergoing emergency colectomy.

Patients and Methods

The present study was a retrospective study of 119 patients who underwent emergency colectomy between January and December 2014 at the Department of Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong. The predicted mortality rate was calculated by SOMIP, NSQIP and P‐POSSUM. Data were analysed by the area under the receiver–operator characteristic curve (AUROC).

Results

The overall mortality rate was 12.6 per cent (15/119). The AUROC for SOMIP was 0.908 [95 per cent confidence interval (CI): 0.845–0.970, P < 0.05), whereas the the AUROC for NSQIP and P‐POSSUM were 0.903 (95 per cent CI: 0.815–0.990, P < 0.05) and 0.842 (95 per cent CI: 0.743–0.942, P < 0.05), respectively. The SOMIP calculator provided the highest AUROC and was comparable to the other two well‐established international risk calculators.

Conclusions

All three risk calculators (SOMIP, NSQIP and P‐POSSUM) showed considerable accuracy in predicting the 30‐day mortality rate. The SOMIP risk calculator was comparable to the well‐established international risk calculators NSQIP and P‐POSSUM.
Biliary cystadenoma: An unusual cause of recurrent cholangitis
Authors: Das Somak , Renganathan Kirubakaran , Gopakumar Chandrasekharan V. , Swain Sudeepta K. , Balachandar Tirupporur G.
Published: December 2018

Biliary cystic neoplasm is a rare variety of liver cyst. Cystobiliary communication is even more uncommon. Biliary complications from cystobiliary communication can mimic liver hydatid disease, particularly in endemic areas. A middle‐aged female presented with recurrent cholangitis and a cystic lesion in the liver, which ultimately turned to be a biliary cystadenoma. We report on this case for its rarity.
Human resource practices and migrant workers' turnover intentions: The roles of post‐migration place identity and justice perceptions
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Li Xiaobei , Frenkel Stephen J. , Zhang Jianjun
Published: December 2018

This study adopts an identity perspective to explore the relationship between human resource (HR) practices and turnover intentions among migrant workers. Informed by HR attribution theory, we propose that the effects of HR practices will be more effective in reducing turnover among migrant workers when these workers have stronger post‐migration place identities and when they experience a sense of justice regarding their work and nonwork environments. Using a three‐way interaction model, we tested these ideas on a sample composed of 1,985 migrant workers in 141 firms in China. The results support the theoretical model.
99mTc‐Ceftizoxime: Synthesis, characterization and its use in diagnosis of diabetic foot osteomyelitis
Authors: Ahmed Naseer , Fatima Shazia , Saeed Muhammad Adnan , Zia Muhammad , Irfan Ullah Javaid
Published: December 2018

Introduction

The diagnosis of diabetic foot osteomyelitis is crucial and challenging for the proper management of diabetic foot. 99mTc labelled Ceftizoxime was used as a non‐invasive diagnostic agent for diabetic foot osteomyelitis.

Methods

Ceftizoxime [CFT], a third generation cephalosporin, was used in a simple and direct method for the synthesis of 99mTcO4− labelled infection imaging agent with stannous chloride as reducing agent. Its radiochemical purity was checked by thin Layer chromatography. Partition co‐efficient was measured with phosphate buffer and chloroform. The radiochemical complex was injected to control and infected animal model for 3 hours in‐vivo localization studied with the help of dual head gamma camera. The labelled complexes were injected to 5 patients of known type II diabetes mellitus suspected of diabetic foot osteomyelitis. All patients underwent dynamic and static 99mTc‐MDP and 99mTc‐CFT scans.

Results

The synthesized radio labelled complex was 98.8% pure, with hydrophilic character. When injected to animal model, at 120 minutes, 49.3% was localized in foci of infection with 3.35% in liver and excretion through kidney. Human studies were interpreted as true or false positive and true or false negative based on bone histopathology/culture and clinical follow‐up. We found that of 5 patients, 2 were true positive, 2 as true negative with no false positive or negative and 01 patient had soft tissue infection.

Conclusion

This study showed that 99mTc‐CFT labelled complex could be used for detection of diabetic foot osteomyelitis; however, further confirmation of results with a larger patient population would be optimal.
Brain Glutamate, GABA, and Glutamine Levels and Associations with Recent Drinking in Treatment‐Naïve Individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder Versus Light Drinkers
Authors: Prisciandaro James J. , Schacht Joseph P. , Prescot Andrew P. , Renshaw Perry F. , Brown Truman R. , Anton Raymond F.
Published: December 2018

Background

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) studies have demonstrated abnormal levels of a variety of neurometabolites in inpatients/outpatients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) following acute alcohol withdrawal relative to healthy controls. In contrast, few studies have compared neurometabolite levels between less severe, treatment‐naïve AUD individuals and light drinkers (LD) or related them to recent alcohol consumption. The present study compared neurometabolite levels between treatment‐naïve AUD and LD individuals.

Methods

Twenty treatment‐naïve individuals with AUD and 20 demographically matched LD completed an 1H‐MRS scan, approximately 2.5 days following their last reported drink. 1H‐MRS data were acquired in dorsal anterior cingulate (dACC) using a 2‐dimensional J‐resolved point‐resolved spectroscopy sequence. dACC neurometabolite levels, with a focus on glutamate, glutamine, and GABA, were compared between AUD and LD participants. The associations between metabolite levels and recent drinking were explored.

Results

AUD participants had significantly lower concentrations of GABA (Cohen's d = 0.79, p = 0.017) and glutamine (Cohen's d = 1.12, p = 0.005), but not glutamate (Cohen's d = 0.05, p = 0.893), relative to LD. As previously reported, AUD participants’ glutamate and N‐acetylaspartate concentrations were inversely associated with their number of heavy drinking days. In contrast, neither number of drinking (mean p = 0.56) nor heavy drinking (mean p = 0.47) days were associated with metabolite concentrations in LD.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated significantly lower levels of prefrontal γ‐aminobutyric acid and glutamine in treatment‐naïve individuals with AUD relative to LD. Whether these findings reflect the neurotoxic consequence and/or neuroadaptive response of alcohol consumption versus a predrinking trait, and therefore a more durable neurochemical disturbance, awaits elucidation from longitudinal studies.
Role of ADHD in the Co‐Occurrence Between Heavy Alcohol Use and Depression Trajectories in Adulthood
Authors: Wang Frances L. , Pedersen Sarah L. , Joseph Heather , Gnagy Elizabeth M. , Curran Patrick , Pelham William E. , Molina Brooke S. G.
Published: December 2018

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with greater heavy alcohol use and depressive symptoms in adulthood. Yet, few studies have investigated whether childhood ADHD predicts an increased association between heavy drinking and depression in adulthood when this co‐occurrence becomes more common. We examined associations among heavy alcohol use and depression longitudinally from ages 21 to 29 and whether these associations differed for those with or without childhood ADHD, as well as for those with or without persistent ADHD in adulthood.

Methods

Data were from the Pittsburgh ADHD Longitudinal Study, a prospective cohort of children diagnosed with ADHD and demographically similar individuals without ADHD histories. ADHD symptoms in adulthood were self‐ and parent reported; depressive symptoms and frequency of drinking 5 or more drinks in a single drinking occasion were self‐reported and measured at 5 time‐points from ages 21 to 29. Depression and alcohol use were modeled in a multiple‐group, parallel process longitudinal growth model.

Results

The slopes of heavy alcohol use and depression were significantly and positively associated from ages 25 to 29 but not at the younger ages. Although the strength of these associations did not differ by group (with or without ADHD, childhood or adulthood), the slopes of depression and heavy drinking at the older ages were highly variable and individuals with ADHD showed significantly faster growth in depression from ages 25 to 29.

Conclusions

Due to the strengthening association between heavy drinking and depression for adults in their late 20s, and increasing depression for adults with ADHD histories, individuals with ADHD may be at greater risk for co‐occurring depression and binge drinking. Negative reinforcement‐related alcohol use may strengthen as these individuals age toward the fourth decade of life. More rigorous testing of this possibility is warranted.
Incidence of severe critical events in paediatric anaesthesia in the United Kingdom: secondary analysis of the anaesthesia practice in children observational trial (APRICOT study)
Authors: Engelhardt T. , Ayansina D. , Bell G. T. , Oshan V. , Rutherford J. S. , Morton N. S. ,   for the APRICOT Group of the European Society of Anaesthesiology Clinical Trial Network
Published: December 2018

The anaesthesia practice in children observational trial of 31,127 patients in 261 European hospitals revealed a high (5.2%) incidence of severe critical events in the peri‐operative period and wide variability in practice. A sub‐analysis of the UK data was undertaken to investigate differences compared with the non‐UK cohort in the incidence and nature of peri‐operative severe critical events and to attempt to identify areas for quality improvement. In the UK cohort of 7040 paediatric patients from 43 hospitals, the overall incidence of peri‐operative severe critical events was lower than in the non‐UK cohort (3.3%, 95%CI: 2.9–3.8 vs. 5.8%, 95%CI: 5.5–6.1, RR 0.57, p < 0.001). There was a lower rate of bronchospasm (RR 0.22, 95%CI: 0.14–0.33; p < 0.001), stridor (RR 0.42, 95%CI: 0.28–0.65; p < 0.001) and cardiovascular instability (RR 0.69, 95%CI: 0.55–0.86; p = 0.001) than in the non‐UK cohort. The proportion of sicker patients where less experienced teams were managing care was lower in the UK than in the non‐UK cohort (10.4% vs. 20.4% of the ASA physical status 3 and 9% vs. 12.9% of the ASA physical status 4 patients). Differences in work‐load between centres did not affect the incidence and outcomes of severe critical events when stratified for age and ASA physical status. The lower incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory complications could be partly attributed to more experienced dedicated paediatric anaesthesia providers managing the higher risk patients in the UK. Areas for quality improvement include: standardisation of serious critical event definitions; increased reporting; development of evidence‐based protocols for management of serious critical events; development and rational use of paediatric peri‐operative risk assessment scores; implementation of current best practice in provision of competent paediatric anaesthesia services in Europe; development of specific training in the management of severe peri‐operative critical events; and implementation of systems for ensuring maintenance of skills.
Infants who die in shared sleeping situations differ from those who die while sleeping alone
Authors: Collins‐Praino Lyndsey E. , Byard Roger W.
Published: December 2018

Aim

To determine whether there are differences between infants who are sharing a sleeping surface with others, compared to those who die alone.

Methods

A literature review was undertaken of PubMed and Google Scholar databases using search terms: sudden infant death syndrome, SIDS, co‐sleeping and overlaying.

Results

Statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in the sex ratios, and in staining of brain sections for β‐amyloid precursor protein (β‐APP), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labelling (TUNEL). There were also higher numbers of nucleated red blood cells (nRBCs) in the peripheral blood of infants who died while co‐sleeping.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate differences between infants who are sharing a sleeping surface with others, compared to those who die alone. It is likely, therefore, that lethal mechanisms for some shared sleepers are not the same as for SIDS infants sleeping alone, and may involve suffocation.
Islands of indigeneity: Cultural distinction, indigenous territory and island spatiality
Authors: Grydehøj Adam , Nadarajah Yaso , Markussen Ulunnguaq
Published: December 2018

Islands are often associated with distinct cultures. Although the island polities that formed during the withdrawal of empire frequently brought together various ethnicities, Indigenous governance and claims to cultural distinction have often remained an ideal for such islands and archipelagos. This paper examines the complex causality behind associations between indigeneity and islandness, discussing how island spatiality fosters: (1) cultural distinction, (2) connections between people and place, and (3) Indigenous territory. We argue that islands are exceptionally fruitful spaces for developing and maintaining distinct ethnicities, due not just to material effects of island geography but also in the manner in which both islanders and mainlanders conceptualise islands as “legible geographies.” Islands can thereby become quintessential spaces for containing Indigenous Peoples, simultaneously sustaining cultural difference while limiting the scope for Indigenous self‐determination. Drawing on cases from the Arctic, East Asia, Oceania and the Caribbean, we highlight the benefits that island spatiality can offer to Indigenous communities as well as the dangerous manner in which island spatiality can encourage essentialisations of Indigenous Peoples and circumscriptions of Indigenous spaces. This paper positions itself as an effort in decolonial island studies.
Pray local and act global? Christian religiosity in the U.S. and human rights
Authors: Cui Jinhua , Jo Hoje
Published: December 2018

This study examines the influence of Christian religion on corporate decisions related to human rights in the United States. Specifically, it examines the empirical association between a company's human rights practices and the Christian religiosity in its local community, as well as individual CEO religiosity in the United States, both of which have not been tested in prior studies. Employing a large sample from the United States, we find a congruent association between the “human rights friendly” practices of a company and the Christian religiosity of the local community. This novel finding is robust to a diverse set of tests. In addition, we find that the association between Christian religiosity in the United States and human rights is more significant in reducing human rights concerns, than it improves human rights strengths. This study interprets these results as upholding the religious morality hypothesis, namely, that companies located in areas with higher religiosity are likely to engage in more human rights‐friendly practices, and the United States. Christians consider religion as an influencing factor that encourages managers to embrace human rights. Furthermore, this study finds that individual religious managers tend toward more human rights‐friendly practices, supporting our religious manager hypothesis.
Frontiérités québécoises : Représentations de la zone transfrontalière québéco‐américaine au Congrès des États‐Unis, 2001–2016
Authors: Boucher Vincent , Cloutier‐Roy Christophe , Vallet Élisabeth
Published: December 2018

Messages clés

Les élus du Congrès des États‐Unis formulent des demandes contradictoires de durcissement et d'assouplissement de la frontière québéco‐américaine.

Deux tensions se dégagent de leurs discours : une volonté d'assouplir et de durcir les contrôles frontaliers; l'affirmation d'un sentiment de communauté transfrontalière et d'un sentiment d'extranéité vis‐à‐vis de ce qui se trouve de l'autre côté de la frontière.

Les législateurs réclament des niveaux différents de contrôle frontalier, ce qui reflète des frontiérités propres aux circonscriptions ou États qu'ils représentent au niveau fédéral.
Clinical significance of the mutational landscape and fragmentation of circulating tumor DNA in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Uemura Motohide , Fujita Masashi , Maejima Kazuhiro , Koh Yoko , Matsushita Makoto , Nakano Kosuke , Hayashi Yujiro , Wang Cong , Ishizuya Yu , Kinouchi Toshiro , Hayashi Takuji , Matsuzaki Kyosuke , Jingushi Kentaro , Kato Taigo , Kawashima Atsunari , Ujike Takeshi , Nagahara Akira , Fujita Kazutoshi , Imamura Ryoichi , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Nonomura Norio
Published: December 2018

Reliable biomarkers for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have yet to be determined. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is an emerging resource to detect and monitor molecular characteristics of various tumors. The present study aims to clarify the clinical utility of ctDNA for RCC. Fifty‐three patients histologically diagnosed with clear cell RCC were enrolled. Targeted sequencing was carried out using plasma cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) and tumor DNA. We applied droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) to validate detected mutations. cfDNA fragment size was also evaluated using a microfluidics‐based platform and sequencing. Proportion of cfDNA fragments was defined as the ratio of small (50‐166 bp) to large (167‐250 bp) cfDNA fragments. Association of mutant allele frequency of ctDNA with clinical course was analyzed. Prognostic potential was evaluated using log‐rank test. A total of 38 mutations across 16 (30%) patients were identified from cfDNA, including mutations in TP53 (n = 6) and VHL (n = 5), and median mutant allele frequency of ctDNA was 10%. We designed specific ddPCR probes for 11 mutations and detected the same mutations in both cfDNA and tumor DNA. Positive ctDNA was significantly associated with a higher proportion of cfDNA fragments (P = .033), indicating RCC patients with ctDNA had shorter fragment sizes of cfDNA. Interestingly, the changes of mutant allele frequency in ctDNA concurrently correlated with clinical course. Positive ctDNA and fragmentation of cfDNA were significantly associated with poor cancer‐specific survival (P < .001, P = .011). In conclusion, our study shows the clinical utility of ctDNA status and cfDNA fragment size as biomarkers for prognosis and disease monitoring in RCC.
Young Adult Carers: The Impact of Caring on Health and Education
Authors: Becker Saul , Sempik Joe
Published: December 2018

Research has shown that young people who care for parents and relatives (young carers and young adult carers) are at greater risk of mental and emotional difficulties and are more likely to do badly at school or college. To explore the difficulties faced by young adult carers (aged 14–25) in the UK, an online survey was conducted. Almost half (45%) of the 295 respondents reported having a mental health problem. The relationship between the extent of caring and perceived mental health problems and the impact of caring responsibilities on work and education were investigated.
Complications after discharge and delays in adjuvant chemotherapy following colonic resection: a cohort study of linked primary and secondary care data
Authors: Arhi C. S. , Burns E. M. , Bouras G. , Aylin P. , Ziprin P. , Darzi A.
Published: December 2018

Aim

By understanding the reasons for delays in adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) after colonic resection, there is the potential to improve patient outcome. The aim of this study is to determine the extent and impact of complications after hospital discharge on delays to AC.

Method

The study cohort included patients from Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) who had a colorectal cancer resection; linkage to primary care data was provided by the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD). Complications during the index hospital stay (from HES) and after discharge (from CPRD) were compared. The risk of late AC treatment (8 weeks or later) following a complication, stoma at the index procedure or emergency admission was described after accounting for age and Charlson score. A Cox hazards model determined the association of these factors with overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 1266 patients underwent AC following colon cancer resection, of whom 598 (47.2%) received treatment within 8 weeks. Patients receiving late AC had a significantly higher proportion of re‐operations (7.0% vs 3.3% P < 0.005) and wound infections (5.5% vs 3.7% P = 0.042), with 96% of the latter only being noted in CPRD. In multivariate analysis, the risk of AC delay significantly increased following a complication (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.16–2.03, P = 0.003) or a stoma at the index operation. AC delay was associated with worse OS [hazard ratio (HR) 1.44, 95% CI 1.16–1.79, P = 0.001], as was an emergency admission (HR 1.59, 95% CI 1.21–1.98, P < 0.0005). However, the presence of a complication did not independently reduce OS (HR 1.15, 95%CI 0.89–1.48, P = 0.295).

Conclusion

The true extent and impact of complications following colonic resection is underestimated when only secondary care data are used.
Tranilast Treatment Attenuates Cerebral Ischemia‐Reperfusion Injury in Rats Through the Inhibition of Inflammatory Responses Mediated by NF‐κB and PPARs
Authors: Zhuo Yue , Zhuo Jun
Published: December 2018

Ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) occurs when blood supply returns to tissue after interruption, which is associated with life‐threatening inflammatory response. Tranilast is a widely used antiallergic agent in the treatment against bronchial asthma and keloid. To study the function of tranilast, we used IRI in rat models. The brain tissues of IRI rats with or without tranilast treatment were collected. Neuronal apoptosis in the brain was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase nick end labeling assay, and proinflammatory cytokine levels were measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The expression levels of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB), inhibitor of κB (IκB) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) were detected by Western blot. The results showed that tranilast treatment reduced neuronal apoptosis in the brain of IRI rats. Tranilast enhanced the short‐term memory and long‐term memory to novel object recognition paradigm. Tranilast treatment decreased the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of multiple proinflammatory cytokines, and affected NF‐κB and inhibitor of kappa B protein expressions. Tranilast promoted the expressions of PPAR‐α and PPAR‐γ. Our findings demonstrate that tranilast treatment could attenuate cerebral IRI by regulating the inflammatory cytokine production and PPAR expression. Tranilast is a potential drug for IRI treatment in the clinic.
Fieldwork after conflict: contextualising the challenges of access and data quality
Authors: Roll Kate , Swenson Geoffrey
Published: December 2018

Despite sustained scholarly interest in post‐conflict states, there has not been a thorough review and analysis of associated methodology and the challenges of conducting research in these contexts. Addressing this gap, this paper directs attention to the particular effects of these settings on access and data quality and their ramifications for the resulting scholarship. It assesses the intrinsic challenges of performing fieldwork in these environments, drawing on both relevant social science literature and the authors’ experiences of carrying out research in Afghanistan and Timor‐Leste. The study demonstrates that the post‐conflict environment moulds research design and, consequently, influences how questions are answered as well as the questions asked. Moreover, it highlights ways to mitigate these issues. This work is of relevance to scholars planning to engage in field research and to researchers reflecting upon their work, as well as to policymakers who are considering undertaking programmes or commissioning research in post‐conflict areas.
Brain structure and neurological and behavioural functioning in infants born preterm
Authors: Kelly Claire E , Thompson Deanne K , Cheong Jeanie LY , Chen Jian , Olsen Joy E , Eeles Abbey L , Walsh Jennifer M , Seal Marc L , Anderson Peter J , Doyle Lex W , Spittle Alicia J
Published: December 2018

Aim

To examine: (1) relationships between brain structure, and concurrently assessed neurological and behavioural functioning, in infants born preterm at term‐equivalent age (TEA; approximately 38–44wks); and (2) whether brain structure–function relationships differ between infants born very (24–29wks) and moderate‐late (32–36wks) preterm.

Method

A total of 257 infants (91 very preterm, 166 moderate‐late preterm; 120 males, 137 females) had structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and neurological and behavioural assessments (Prechtl's general movements assessment, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Network Neurobehavioral Scale [NNNS] and Hammersmith Neonatal Neurological Examination [HNNE]). Two hundred and sixty‐three infants (90 very preterm, 173 moderate‐late preterm; 131 males, 132 females) had diffusion MRI and assessments. Associations were investigated between assessment scores and global brain volumes using linear regressions, regional brain volumes using Voxel‐Based Morphometry, and white matter microstructure using Tract‐Based Spatial Statistics.

Results

Suboptimal scores on some assessments were associated with lower fractional anisotropy and/or higher axial, radial, and mean diffusivities in some tracts: NNNS attention and reflexes, and HNNE total score and tone, were associated with the corpus callosum and optic radiation; NNNS quality of movement with the corona radiata; HNNE abnormal signs with several major tracts. Brain structure‐function associations generally did not differ between the very and moderate‐late preterm groups.

Interpretation

White matter microstructural alterations may be associated with suboptimal neurological and behavioural performance in some domains at TEA in infants born preterm. Brain structure–function relationships are similar for infants born very preterm and moderate‐late preterm.

What this paper adds

Brain volume is not related to neurological/behavioural function in infants born preterm at term.

White matter microstructure is related to some neurological/behavioural domains at term.

Brain–behaviour relationships are generally similar for infants born very preterm and moderate‐late preterm.
Addition of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist therapy to insulin in C‐peptide‐positive patients with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Kuhadiya Nitesh D. , Prohaska Ben , Ghanim Husam , Dandona Paresh
Published: December 2018

We aimed to test the hypothesis that addition of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) to insulin in C‐peptide‐positive patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) will result in a reduction in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) with reduced insulin requirements and a rise in C‐peptide concentrations. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 11 normal‐weight patients with T1D consecutively treated with a GLP‐1RA in addition to insulin. Paired t tests were used to compare the changes in HbA1c, insulin doses, body weight, body mass index, and C‐peptide concentrations prior to and 12 ± 1 weeks after GLP‐1RA therapy. At the end of 12 ± 1 weeks of GLP‐1RA therapy, HbA1c fell from 10.74 ± 0.96% (95 ± 10.5 mmol/mol) to 7.4 ± 0.58% (58 ± 6.3mmol/mol) (P < 0.01), body weight fell from 71 ± 2.0 to 69 ± 2 kg (P = 0.06), and total insulin dose was reduced by 64% from 33 ± 6 to 11 ± 5 units (P < 0.01). Five out of 10 patients did not require any insulin. C‐peptide concentrations increased significantly from 0.43 ± 0.09 ng/ml (0.14 ± 0.02 nmol/L) to 1.42 ± 0.42ng/ml (0.47 ± 0.13 nmol/L) (P = 0.01). Addition of GLP‐1RA therapy to insulin in normal‐weight patients with T1D led to a reduction in HbA1c with reduced insulin requirements, a 3.5‐fold increase in C‐peptide concentrations and freedom from insulin therapy in 50% of patients who tolerated the GLP‐1RA therapy over a period of 12 ± 1 weeks.
Persistence of a pacemaker lead‐like “ghost” 6 months after lead extraction
Authors: Alizadehasl Azin , Sarrafi Rad Negar , Pourafkari Leili , Haghjoo Majid
Published: December 2018

Residual fibrous structures, referred as “ghosts”, are occasionally encountered following lead extraction. Though typically detected in patients with cardiac device infections, their prognostic and therapeutic implications remain speculative. We describe a 62‐year‐old gentleman with history of sick sinus syndrome who presented atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. The patient had history of transvenous lead extraction following pacemaker pocket infection 6 months earlier. In echocardiography, an echo‐dense tubular lead‐like structure was seen that followed the route of a pacer lead from superior vena cava to right atrium and then passing through the tricuspid valve into right ventricle.
The gender division of labour in early modern England
Authors: Whittle Jane , Hailwood Mark
Published: December 2018

This article presents new evidence of gendered work patterns in the pre‐industrial economy, providing an overview of women's work in early modern England. Evidence of 4,300 work tasks undertaken by particular women and men was collected from three types of court documents (coroners’ reports, church court depositions, and quarter sessions examinations) from five counties in south‐western England (Cornwall, Devon, Hampshire, Somerset, and Wiltshire) between 1500 and 1700. The findings show that women participated in all the main areas of the economy. However, different patterns of gendered work were identified in different parts of the economy: craft work showed a sharp division of labour and agriculture a flexible division of labour, while differences of gender were less pronounced in everyday commerce. Quantitative evidence of early modern housework and care work in England indicates that such work used less time and was less family‐based than is often assumed. Comparisons with gendered work patterns in early modern Germany and Sweden are drawn and show strong similarities to England. In conclusion it is argued that the gender division of labour cannot be explained by a single factor, as different influences were at play in different parts of the economy.
Simulated long‐term outcomes of early use of long‐acting injectable antipsychotics in early schizophrenia
Authors: Horvitz‐Lennon Marcela , Predmore Zachary , Orr Patrick , Hanson Mark , Hillestad Richard , Durkin Mike , Kim Edward , Mattke Soeren
Published: December 2018

Aim

Duration of untreated psychosis in early schizophrenia impacts long‐term outcomes. Because long‐acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotic drugs improve adherence in early‐stage patients, they could reduce additional time in uncontrolled psychosis (TUP) during the critical period of the illness. However, the long‐term benefit of early LAI use over oral formulations has not been quantified. This study explores the potential magnitude of the benefit with a simulation approach.

Methods

A microsimulation models the effects of 11 treatment pathways reflecting alternative decisions on whether and when LAI agents are used during a “calibration phase” that starts at treatment entry and lasts until the end of the 3‐year critical period. Treatment failure prolongs time in psychosis. Long‐term outcomes are predicted over the ensuing 7‐year period as a function of TUP.

Results

An “early LAI” pathway where LAI treatment follows the second oral treatment failure is compared to an oral‐only pathway. Under these pathways, 69% and 46% of patients, respectively, are estimated to exit the calibration phase with adequate symptom control (total positive and negative syndrome scale score below 68). Relative to the oral‐only pathway, the early LAI pathway is predicted to increase competitive employment by 39% (25% vs 18%) and independent or family living by 22% (71% vs 58%), and to decrease receipt of disability benefits by 36% (42% vs 66%) and hospital admissions per 1000 patient‐years by 15% (249% vs 294%).

Conclusions

While these simulation results need to be confirmed empirically, they suggest that earlier use of LAI antipsychotics can meaningfully improve patient outcomes.
Improved resin‐to‐dentin bond strength and durability via non‐thermal atmospheric pressure plasma drying of etched dentin
Authors: Han Geum‐Jun , Kim Jun‐Min , Cho Byeong‐Hoon , Hwang Yunchan , Kim Hae‐Young
Published: December 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the improvement in strength and durability of the bond between dentin and composite resins following plasma drying of the etched dentin surface using non‐thermal atmospheric pressure plasma. Plasma drying was applied to the etched dentin before applying adhesive. Conventional wet‐bonding and helium (He) gas‐dried bonding schemes were used as control groups. The bond strength of the composite resin to dentin was measured as the microtensile bond strength at 24 h after bonding and after 10,000 cycles of thermocycling. Hybrid layer formation was observed using micro‐Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Although the bond‐strength values were not statistically different either at 24 h after bonding or after thermocycling, the bond strength of the plasma‐dried bonding group was significantly higher than the conventional wet‐bonding group and He gas‐dried bonding group. Micro‐Raman spectral analysis revealed effective penetration of the adhesive and an improved polymerization rate of the adhesive after plasma drying. Plasma drying increased the penetration of hydrophobic resin into the collagen mesh structure, which improved mechanical bonding and long‐term durability between dentin and composite resin.
Molecular and cellular basis of depigmentation in vitiligo patients
Authors: Delmas Véronique , Larue Lionel
Published: December 2018

Vitiligo is a chronic skin disease characterized by the appearance of zones of depigmentation. It is mostly described as an autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys the melanocytes. Consistent with this origin, genetic studies have implicated genes encoding proteins mediating the immune response targeting melanocytes in the aetiology of this disease, together with proteins specific to these cells. However, the destruction of melanocytes by the immune system is neither global nor complete, because the patients do not display total depigmentation. The etiopathology of vitiligo is clearly complex and cannot be simply reduced to an autoimmune reaction directed against pigmented cells. Intrinsic changes have been observed in the melanocytes, keratinocytes and dermal cells of vitiligo patients. Identification of the molecular and cellular changes occurring in normally pigmented skin in vitiligo patients, and an understanding of these changes, is essential to improve the definition of trigger events for this disease, with a view to developing treatments with long‐term efficacy. This review focuses on the early events identified to date in the non‐lesional regions of the skin in vitiligo patients and discusses the process of repigmentation from melanocyte stem cells.
Scaling up DNA metabarcoding for freshwater macrozoobenthos monitoring
Authors: Elbrecht Vasco , Steinke Dirk
Published: December 2018

The viability of DNA metabarcoding for assessment of freshwater macrozoobenthos has been demonstrated over the recent years. The method has matured to a stage where it can be applied to monitoring at a large scale, keeping pace with increased high‐throughput sequencing capacity. However, workflows and sample tagging need to be optimised to accommodate for hundreds of samples within a single sequencing run.

Here, we conceptualise a streamlined metabarcoding workflow, in which samples are processed in 96‐well plates. Each sample is replicated starting with tissue extraction. Negative and positive controls are included to ensure data reliability. With our newly developed fusion primer sets for the BF2 + BR2 primer pair up to three 96‐well plates (288 wells) can be uniquely tagged for a single Illumina sequencing run. By including Illumina indices, tagging can be extended to thousands of samples.

We hope that our metabarcoding workflow will be used as a practical guide for future large‐scale biodiversity assessments involving freshwater invertebrates. However, as this is just one possible metabarcoding approach, we hope this article will stimulate discussion and publication of alternatives and extensions to this method.
Electrophoretic deposition studies of Ba(Zr‐Ce‐Y)O3 ceramic coating
Authors: Choudhary Bishnu , Anwar Sharmistha , Besra Laxmidhar , Anwar Shahid
Published: December 2018

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is now a well established colloidal processing technique which uses electrophoresis mechanism for the movement of suspended charged particles in a suspension in the presence of an electric field. In this work, electrophoretic deposition of BaZr0.4Ce0.4Y0.2O3‐δ (BZCY) in ethanol medium was performed under different conditions on both conducting and non‐conducting (porous anode) substrate without using any external additives in a suspension bath. Process parameters such as deposition time, voltage, and rate of deposition of suspended particles were studied under various conditions. Green coating deposited under different potential (30, 50, and 70V) was uniform and crack free, even at extended time of deposition. Surface roughnesses have also been evaluated to correlate it with deposition conditions. It is also found that the rate of deposition on conducting substrate was higher as compared to that on non‐conducting substrate (anode). XRD studies of the calcined powder and coating exhibit an expected simple cubic perovskite structure. The deposition yield increases linearly with voltage for each deposition time for both conducting and non‐conducting substrates. The coating on non‐conducting porous anode heat treated at 1500°C for 2 hours was dense and well adherent to the anode substrate. A film thickness of about 13 μm was obtained at 70V. Such dense BZCY electrolyte coating on BZCY+NiO anode (Half cell) could be well utilized for fabrication of proton conducting SOFC single cell by applying suitable cathode layer on electrolyte film.
Multiple receptors converge on H2‐Q10 to regulate NK and γδT‐cell development
Authors: Goodall Katharine J , Nguyen Angela , Matsumoto Aya , McMullen Julie R , Eckle Sidonia B , Bertolino Patrick , Sullivan Lucy C , Andrews Daniel M
Published: December 2018

Class Ib major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is an extended family of molecules, which demonstrate tissue‐specific expression and presentation of monomorphic antigens. These characteristics tend to imbue class Ib MHC with unique functions. H2‐Q10 is potentially one such molecule that is overexpressed in the liver but its immunological function is not known. We have previously shown that H2‐Q10 is a ligand for the natural killer cell receptor Ly49C and now, using H2‐Q10‐deficient mice, we demonstrate that H2‐Q10 can also stabilize the expression of Qa‐1b. In the absence of H2‐Q10, the development and maturation of conventional hepatic natural killer cells is disrupted. We also provide evidence that H2‐Q10 is a new high affinity ligand for CD8αα and controls the development of liver‐resident CD8αα γδT cells. These data demonstrate that H2‐Q10 has multiple roles in the development of immune subsets and identify an overlap of recognition within the class Ib MHC that is likely to be relevant to the regulation of immunity.
Deciding Where to go: Policies, People and Perceptions Shaping Destination Preferences
Authors: Crawley Heaven , Hagen‐Zanker Jessica
Published: December 2018

There is considerable interest among European politicians and policymakers in the factors influencing the destination preferences of refugees and other migrants. Drawing on in‐depth qualitative interviews with more than 250 Syrians, Eritreans and Nigerians, this article examines the destination preferences of those crossing the Mediterranean in 2015 and the extent to which they were aware of, and/or influenced by, policies intended to control and manage their arrival. Our findings question the extent to which deterrence policies have their intended or assumed effects. Preferred destinations are rarely identified solely, or even primarily, on the basis of migration policies devised by different governments with the explicit aim of reducing the number of arrivals. Rather they reflect the “coming together” of a wide range of factors, including access to protection and family reunification, the availability/accuracy of information, the overall economic environment and social networks. Moreover perceptions of migration policies may be more significant than their content as the implications are often not known or misunderstood.
Antibody levels in a cohort of pregnant women after the 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic: Waning and association with self‐reported severity and duration of illness
Authors: Tunheim Gro , Laake Ida , Robertson Anna Hayman , Waalen Kristian , Hungnes Olav , Næss Lisbeth M. , Cox Rebecca J. , Mjaaland Siri , Trogstad Lill
Published: December 2018

Background

A population‐based pregnancy cohort was established in Norway to study potential effects of exposure to the 2009 influenza pandemic or pandemic vaccination during pregnancy.

Objectives

We studied maternal A(H1N1)pdm09‐specific hemagglutination inhibition (HI)‐titer levels and waning in women with influenza‐like illness (ILI) in pregnancy compared to vaccinated women. Moreover, we studied the association betweenHI‐titers and self‐reported severity and duration ofILI.

Methods

HI‐titers against the pandemic virus were measured in maternal blood samples obtained at birth, 3‐9 months after exposure, and linked with information about pregnancy, influenza and vaccination from national registries and a cohort questionnaire.

Results

Among 1821 pregnant women included, 43.7% were unvaccinated and 19.3% of these hadILI.HI‐titers were low (geometric mean titer (GMT) 11.3) in the unvaccinated women withILI. HigherHI‐titers (GMT37.8) were measured in the vaccinated women. EstimatedHI‐titer waning was similar for vaccinated women and women withILI. MostILIepisodes were moderate and lasted 3‐5 days. Women withILIreporting specific influenza symptoms such as fever or cough had higherHI‐titers than women without these symptoms. Women who reported being “very ill” or illness duration of >5 days had higherHI‐titers than women reporting less severe illness or illness of shorter duration, respectively.

Conclusions

Antibody waning was similar in vaccinated women and women withILI. More severeILIor longer duration of illness was associated with higherHI‐titers. Most unvaccinated pregnant women withILIhad lowHI‐titers, probably due to moderate illness andHI‐titer waning between exposure and sampling.
Effectiveness of self‐management programme in people with chronic kidney disease: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nguyen Nguyet Thi , Douglas Clint , Bonner Ann
Published: December 2018

Aims

To examine the effectiveness of a self‐management intervention compared with usual care in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on self‐management, knowledge, self‐efficacy, health‐related quality of life, and blood pressure.

Design

A parallel group randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Patients aged ≥ 18 years with CKD stages 3–5 were recruited between November 2015 and June 2016. Participants were randomly allocated into either the intervention (N = 68) or control group (N = 67). The control group received usual care, while the intervention group received usual care plus a self‐management programme from a nurse. The intervention was guided by social cognitive theory (SCT) and included a face‐to‐face educational session followed by telephone support. Both groups were followed for 16 weeks.

Results

There were no significant differences in self‐management, knowledge, self‐efficacy, health‐related quality of life, and blood pressure between the two groups at baseline. At week 16, compared with the control group, large effect sizes for improved self‐management, knowledge, and self‐efficacy were detected. For health‐related quality of life, the physical and mental health components significantly improved. However, no significant differences in either systolic or diastolic blood pressures were found.

Conclusion

In earlier stages of CKD, a simple self‐management education benefits patients.

Impact

Effective self‐management in the earlier stages of CKD contributes to slowing its progression, improving health outcomes and lowering the burden on healthcare systems. This study demonstrated that SCT increases CKD self‐management by strengthening knowledge and self‐efficacy. Nurses can give this education.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000038493.