bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertebrate community composition and diversity declines along a defaunation gradient radiating from rural villages in Gabon
Authors: Koerner Sally E. , Poulsen John R. , Blanchard Emily J. , Okouyi Joseph , Clark Connie J.
Published: October 2016

Anthropocene defaunation is the global phenomenon of human‐induced animal biodiversity loss. Understanding the patterns and process of defaunation is critical to predict outcomes for wildlife populations and cascading consequences for ecosystem function and human welfare.

We investigated a defaunation gradient in north‐eastern Gabon by establishing 24 transects at varying distances (2–30 km) to rural villages and surveying the abundance and composition of vertebrate communities. Distance from village was positively correlated with observations of hunting (shotgun shells, campfires, hunters), making it a good proxy for hunting pressure.

Species diversity declined significantly with proximity to village, with mammal richness increasing by roughly 1·5 species every 10 km travelled away from a village. Compared to forest far from villages, the wildlife community near villages consisted of higher abundances of large birds and rodents and lower abundances of large mammals like monkeys and ungulates.

Distance to nearest village emerged as a key driver of the relative abundance of five of the six taxonomic guilds, indicating that the top‐down force of hunting strongly influences large vertebrate community composition and structure. Several measures of vegetation structure also explained animal abundance, but these varied across taxonomic guilds. Forest elephants were the exception: no measured variable or combination of variables explained variation in elephant abundances.

Synthesis and applications. Hunting is concentrated within 10 km around villages, creating a hunting halo characterized by heavily altered animal communities composed of relatively small‐bodied species. Although the strongest anthropogenic effects are relatively distance‐limited, the linear increase in species richness shown here even at distances 30 km from villages suggests that hunting may have altered vertebrate abundances across the entire landscape. Central African forests store >25% of the carbon in tropical forests and are home to 3000 endemic species, but roughly 53% of the region lies within the village hunting halo. Resource management strategies should take into account this hunting‐induced spatial variation in animal communities. Near villages, resource management should focus on sustainable community‐led hunting programmes that provide long‐term supplies of wild meat to rural people. Resource management far from villages should focus on law enforcement and promoting industry practices that maintain remote tracts of land to preserve ecosystem services like carbon storage and biodiversity.
Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO‐OP) as group therapy for children living with motor coordination difficulties: An integrated literature review
Authors: Anderson Leanne , Wilson Jessie , Williams Gary
Published: October 2016

Background/aim

Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) demonstrate limited participation in daily occupations which negatively impacts their physical and psycho‐social wellbeing. The CO‐OP approach is strongly supported within the literature as an effective treatment for DCD when delivered as a one‐on‐one therapy. Group interventions have proven to be effective in increasing self‐esteem, decreasing feelings of isolation and are a cost effective way of delivering therapy. The purpose of this review was to explore the evidence for the use of the CO‐OP approach in a group format for children with motor coordination difficulties.

Methods

Searches of CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, Proquest, PsycINFO, ERIC and OTDBase, were conducted from 2000 through until September 30, 2015. Articles included were in English, peer reviewed articles, followed principals of CO‐OP and were delivered through a group therapy approach. All articles were critically reviewed and thematically analysed.

Results

192 studies were retrieved with a final number of six articles included in the review. Six themes were highlighted: achieving a new level of perceived competence; feeling a sense of belonging; children learning how the condition affected them and strategies to overcome these challenges; careful formation of intervention groups; the value of following the CO‐OP protocols; and the significance of parental involvement.

Conclusion

The findings of this review suggest that the CO‐OP approach, when administered in a group format, has the potential to benefit children living with motor coordination difficulties in both physical and psycho‐social domains. More research is required to confirm these findings and contribute to evidence‐based practice.
l‐arginine and l‐NMMA for assessing cerebral endothelial dysfunction in ischaemic cerebrovascular disease: A systematic review
Authors: Karlsson William K , Sørensen Caspar G , Kruuse Christina
Published: October 2016

Endothelial dysfunction (ED), in particular cerebral ED, may be an essential biomarker for ischaemic cerebrovascular disease. However, there is no consensus on methods to best estimate cerebral ED. In this systematic review, we evaluate the use of l‐arginine and NG‐monomethyl‐l‐arginine (l‐NMMA) for assessment of cerebral ED. A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library was done. We included studies investigating cerebrovascular response to l‐arginine or l‐NMMA in human subjects with vascular risk factors or ischaemic cerebrovascular disease. Seven studies (315 subjects) were eligible according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies investigated the effect of age (n=2), type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) (n=1), cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) (n=1), leukoaraiosis (n=1), and prior ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) (n=2) on cerebral ED. Most studies applied transcranial Doppler to quantify cerebral ED. Endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation (EDV) induced by l‐arginine was impaired in elderly and subjects with leukoaraiosis, but enhanced in CADASIL patients. Studies including subjects with prior ischaemic stroke or TIA reported both enhanced and impaired EDV to l‐arginine. Responses to l‐NMMA deviated between subjects with type 2 DM and the elderly. We found only few studies investigating cerebral endothelial responses to l‐arginine and l‐NMMA in subjects with vascular risk factors or ischaemic cerebrovascular disease. Inconsistencies in results were most likely due to variations in methods and included subject populations. In order to use cerebral ED as a prognostic marker, further studies are required to evaluate the association to cerebrovascular disease.
Clinical interventions to reduce stillbirths in sub‐Saharan Africa: a mathematical model to estimate the potential reduction of stillbirths associated with specific obstetric conditions
Authors: Goldenberg RL , Griffin JB , Kamath‐Rayne BD , Harrison M , Rouse DJ , Moran K , Hepler B , Jobe AH , McClure EM
Published: October 2016

Objective

Stillbirths are among the most common adverse pregnancy outcomes, with 98% occurring in low‐income countries. More than one‐third occur in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the medical conditions causing stillbirths and interventions to reduce stillbirths from these conditions are not well documented. We estimated the reductions in stillbirths possible with combinations of interventions.

Design

We developed a computerised model to estimate the impact of various interventions on stillbirths caused by the most common conditions. The model considered the location of obstetric care (home, clinic or hospital) and each intervention's efficacy, penetration and utilisation. Maternal transfers were also considered.

Setting and population

Pregnancies in SSA in 2012.

Methods

For each condition, we created a series of scenarios involving different combinations of interventions and modelled their impact on stillbirth rates.

Main outcome measures

Stillbirths associated with various maternal and fetal conditions and the percentage reduction with various interventions.

Results

Eight to ten maternal and fetal conditions were responsible for most stillbirths, but none for more than 15%. The most common conditions causing stillbirths in SSA include obstructed labour and uterine rupture, fetal distress and umbilical cord complications, fetal growth restriction, pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia, and placental abruption/placenta praevia. Syphilis and malaria contribute smaller numbers. Reducing stillbirths requires appropriate diagnosis and management of each condition, usually including hospital care for monitoring and delivery, often by caesarean section. Maternal syphilis and malaria were the only conditions for which outpatient management alone reduced stillbirth.

Conclusions

Most stillbirths in low‐income countries occur at term and during labour and therefore are preventable by appropriate obstetric care. Management focused on the maternal and fetal conditions that cause stillbirths is necessary to achieve stillbirth rates approaching those found in high‐income countries.

Tweetable abstract

Reducing stillbirth incidence requires appropriate management of each causative condition and often caesarean delivery.
Umbilical lactate as a measure of acidosis and predictor of neonatal risk: a systematic review
Authors: Allanson ER , Waqar T , White CRH , Tunçalp Ö , Dickinson JE
Published: October 2016

Background

Umbilical cord lactate is one approach to measuring acidosis and intrapartum hypoxia, knowledge of which may be helpful for clinicians involved in the care of women and newborns.

Objective

To synthesise the evidence on accuracy of umbilical cord lactate in measuring acidosis and predicting poor neonatal outcome.

Search strategy

Studies published and unpublished between 1990 and 2014 from PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and clinicaltrials.gov were assessed.

Selection criteria

Cross‐sectional and randomised studies that assessed fetal acidosis (using lactate as the index test) with or without an assessment of neonatal outcome.

Data collection and analysis

Correlations between index and reference test(s) were recorded, as were the raw data to classify the predictive ability of umbilical lactate for neonatal outcomes. Meta‐analysis of correlation was performed. We plotted estimates of the studies' observed sensitivities and specificities on Forest plots with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Where possible, we combined data using meta‐analysis, applying the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristics model and a bivariate model.

Main results

Twelve studies were included. Umbilical lactate correlated with pH [pooled effect size (ES) −0.650; 95% CI −0.663 to −0.637, P < 0.001], base excess (ES −0.710; 95% CI −0.721 to −0.699, P < 0.001), and Apgar scores at 5 minutes (ES 0.300; 95% 0.193–0.407, P < 0.001). Umbilical lactate had pooled sensitivity and specificity for predicting neonatal neurological outcome including hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy of 69.7% (95% CI 23.8–94.4%) and 93% (95% CI 86.8–96.3%).

Authors' conclusion

Umbilical cord lactate is a clinically applicable, inexpensive and effective way to measure acidosis and is a tool that may be used in the assessment of neonatal outcome.

Tweetable abstract

Umbilical cord lactate: a clinically applicable, inexpensive, effective way to measure intrapartum acidosis.
Drospirenone‐containing combined oral contraceptives and the risk of arterial thrombosis: a population‐based nested case‐control study
Authors: Larivée N , Suissa S , Eberg M , Joseph L , Eisenberg MJ , Abenhaim HA , Filion KB
Published: October 2016

Objective

To compare the rate of arterial thromboembolism (ATE) of drospirenone‐containing COCs to that of levonorgestrel‐containing COCs.

Design

Population‐based cohort study.

Setting

United Kingdom's Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), which contains clinical records for >11 million patients.

Population

Women aged 16–45 years prescribed a drospirenone‐ or levonorgestrel‐containing COC between May 2002 and June 2012.

Methods

We conducted nested case‐control analyses using risk set sampling to randomly select up to 10 controls for each ATE case, matched on age, cohort entry year, CPRD registration year, COC user type (first‐time ever, new, switcher, or prevalent users), duration of COC use, duration of progestin‐only or implantable contraceptive use, pre‐cohort entry duration of drospirenone and levonorgestrel use, and duration of follow up.

Main outcome measures

We used conditional logistic regression to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusted for high‐dimensional propensity scores.

Results

Our cohort included 339 743 women followed over a mean 4.4 years, during which 228 ATE cases occurred: 37 myocardial infarctions, 170 strokes, and 21 other ATEs; overall rate: 1.5 events per 10 000 person‐years (PYs). After adjusting for potential confounders, the hazard ratio for ATE with current use of drospirenone‐containing COCs versus current use of levonorgestrel‐containing COCs was 0.89 (95% CI 0.35, 2.28), corresponding to a rate difference of −0.16 events per 10 000 PYs.

Conclusions

The overall rate of ATE in this population is low regardless of which COC was taken. We found little evidence of a difference in the rate of ATE with drospirenone‐ versus levonorgestrel‐containing COCs.

Tweetable abstract

Little evidence was found of a greater incidence of arterial thrombosis with drospirenone versus levonorgestrel contraceptives.
Labour Market Inequality in Australia
Authors: Borland Jeff , Coelli Michael
Published: October 2016

This article reviews developments in labour market inequality in Australia. First, descriptive information on changes in labour market inequality and on the causes of those changes is integrated with a summary of findings from recent research. Second, the effect of changes in labour market inequality on income inequality is evaluated. Third, evidence on differences in earnings and employment outcomes between specific groups – by gender, Indigenous status and country of birth – is considered. Finally, some suggestions for future research are presented.
Institutional veto players and cabinet formation: The veto control hypothesis reconsidered
Authors: EPPNER SEBASTIAN , GANGHOF STEFFEN
Published: October 2016

Are potential cabinets more likely to form when they control institutional veto players such as symmetric second chambers or minority vetoes? Existing evidence for a causal effect of veto control has been weak. This article presents evidence for this effect on the basis of conditional and mixed logit analyses of government formations in 21 parliamentary and semi‐presidential democracies between 1955 and 2012. It also shows that the size of the effect varies systematically across political‐institutional contexts. The estimated causal effect was greater in countries that eventually abolished the relevant veto institutions. It is suggested that the incidence of constitutional reform is a proxy for context‐specific factors that increased the incentives for veto control and simultaneously provided a stimulus for the weakening of institutional veto power.
Analytical Characterization of Polyphenols from Tara and Caesalpinia decapetala as Stabilizers of O/W Emulsions
Authors: Gallego M Gabriela , Rodríguez Tamara , Rodríguez Isaac , Almajano María Pilar
Published: October 2016

The extracts (0.5% [w/w]) from Caesalpinia spinosa or tara (CS) and Caesalpinia decapetala (CD) leaves were evaluated for their ability to inhibit lipid oxidation using oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions as the model system. Liquid chromatography (LC) combined with mass spectrometry (MS), using a hybrid quadrupole time‐of‐flight (QTOF) mass spectrometer, was employed for (1) the identification of potential antioxidant species in the extracts and (2) to follow their evolution through aging of the emulsions. CS extracts, containing esters and conjugated forms of gallic acid (GA), turned out to be more effective than CD, rich in flavonoid species, in stabilizing the O/W emulsions. After 3 wk at 33 °C, peroxide values of emulsions stabilized with CS and CD extracts were 6.7 and 18.2 meq hydroperoxides/kg, respectively. Responses measured for the oligomers and esterified forms of GA in CS containing emulsions decreased with time; however, the response for the free form of GA kept increasing.
Consumer Acceptance of a Polyphenolic Coffee Beverage
Authors: Nguyen Thuy , Kuchera Meredith , Smoot Katie , Diako Charles , Vixie Beata , Ross Carolyn F.
Published: October 2016

The objective of this study was to determine if Chardonnay grape seed pomace (GSP), a waste stream of wine production, could be used as a functional ingredient in brewed coffee. Two consumer panels were conducted to assess the acceptance of coffee at coffee replacement (w/w) values of 0% (control), 6.25%, 12.50%, 18.75%, or 25% GSP. The 1st consumer panel (n = 80) assessed the coffee samples served “black.” The 2nd panel (n = 67) assessed the coffee samples with adjustment (that is, sweeteners, milk, and cream) options available. Consumer sensory evaluation involved evaluating the 5 treatments individually for acceptance of appearance, aroma, taste/flavor, and overall acceptance using a 9‐point hedonic scale. A check‐all‐that‐apply questionnaire surveyed the sensory attributes describing aroma, appearance, and taste/flavor of the samples. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity was used to measure the effects of antioxidant levels in GSP coffee samples. Results showed that GSP could be added at 6.25% replacement without significantly affecting the overall consumer acceptance of coffee compared to the control (0% GSP). Above 6.25% GSP supplementation, the coffee beverage was described as more tan, milky, watery/dilute, and mild, and was generally less accepted by the consumers. GSP also increased the antioxidant capacity of the coffee compared to the control (0% GSP), with no significant differences among replacement values. Therefore, 6.25% GSP replacement is recommended for creating coffee beverages acceptable to consumers. Further in vivo investigation may substantiate the free‐radical scavenging capacity of GSP coffee and its potential health benefits.
Out‐of‐sample stock return predictability in emerging markets
Authors: Bahrami Afsaneh , Shamsuddin Abul , Uylangco Katherine
Published: October 2016

This article builds on the widely debated issue of stock return predictability by applying a broad range of predictor variables and comprehensively considering the in‐sample and out‐of‐sample stock return predictability of ten advanced emerging markets. It compares forecasts from models with a single predictor variable, multiple predictor variables and a combination forecast approach. The results confirm the findings of Welch and Goyal (2008) for US data that only a limited number of individual predictor variables are able to deliver significant out‐of‐sample forecasts. However, a combination forecast approach provides statistically and economically significant out‐of‐sample forecast results.
Corporate social responsibility and dividend policy
Authors: Cheung Adrian (Waikong) , Hu May , Schwiebert Jörg
Published: October 2016

This study outlines and tests two corporate social responsibility (CSR) views of dividends. The first view argues that firms are likely to pay fewer dividends because CSR activities lower the cost of equity, encouraging firms to invest or hoard cash rather than to pay dividends. The second view suggests that CSR activities are positive NPV projects that increases earnings and hence dividend payouts. The first (second) view predicts that firms with a stronger involvement in CSR activities should be associated with a lower (higher) dividend payouts. The finding supports the second view and is robust.
Stock price response to new‐CEO earnings news
Authors: Geertsema Paul G. , Lont David H. , Lu Helen
Published: October 2016

New‐CEO earnings news exhibits asymmetric effects on stock prices. Stock prices rise more on good earnings news announced by firms with new CEOs compared with those with established CEOs. By contrast, stock prices tend to fall by a smaller amount on bad earnings news for new CEOs. Both the new‐CEO quality effect and the new‐CEO honeymoon effect are more pronounced for CEOs appointed during challenging situations. The new‐CEO quality effect is stronger for firms followed by fewer analysts, while the honeymoon effect is stronger for firms followed by more analysts – illustrating the importance of a transparent information environment.
Interactions between domestic and wild carnivores around the greater Serengeti ecosystem
Authors: Craft M. E. , Vial F. , Miguel E. , Cleaveland S. , Ferdinands A. , Packer C.
Published: October 2016

The domestic and wild carnivore interface is complex, yet understudied. Interactions between carnivore species have important implications for direct interference competition, cross‐species transmission of shared pathogens and conservation threats to wild carnivores. However, carnivore intraguild interactions are hard to quantify. In this study, we asked 512 villagers residing around a conservation area in the Serengeti Ecosystem, Tanzania, to report on the presence of wild carnivores in their village, the number of domestic dogs Canis familiaris and cats Felis catus in their household and interactions between domestic and wild carnivores. Wild carnivores are abundant near households surrounding the Serengeti National Park, villagers have many free‐ranging domestic dogs (and would like to have more) and direct and indirect contacts between wild and domestic carnivores are common. Large carnivores, such as spotted hyenas and leopards, often killed or wounded domestic dogs. Small carnivores, such as mongoose, bat‐eared fox, serval and wildcat, are locally abundant and frequently interact with domestic dogs. We demonstrate that interspecific carnivore behavior, human culture and local and regional geography play a complex role in domestic and wild carnivore interaction risk around conservation areas. Through the use of household surveys, we were able to efficiently obtain data on a wide scope of carnivore interactions over a large area, which may provide a direction for future targeted and in‐depth research to reduce interspecific conflict. Improving the health and husbandry of domestic animals and reducing the unintentional feeding of wild carnivores could reduce dog–wildlife interactions and the potential for pathogen transmission at the domestic–wild animal interface.
IgE‐associated allergic disorders: recent advances in etiology, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Zellweger F. , Eggel A.
Published: October 2016

IgE‐associated allergic diseases belong to the most common inflammatory conditions. Their clinical manifestation ranges from mild symptoms to life‐threatening episodes. Often patients experience a reduction in physical and psychologic well‐being and suffer from a decreased quality of life due to disease activity. The continuously rising number of people that are affected by an allergic condition indicates an urgent need for better diagnostics and more efficient treatment options. Recent progress in the understanding of pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying IgE‐associated allergic disorders has led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets and the development of drug candidates that are currently under evaluation. In this review, we highlight studies and clinical trials, which have helped to gain further insight in the etiology of IgE‐associated allergic conditions as well as advances in the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches recently published in Allergy (European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology).
Cross‐sectional study showed psychosocial variables, gender and family involvement played an important role in an adolescent weight management programme
Authors: Prioste Ana , Fonseca Helena , Sousa Pedro , Gaspar Pedro , Machado Maria do Céu
Published: October 2016

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the psychosocial gains perceived by overweight adolescents attending a 12‐week weight management programme and to analyse gender‐specific differences.

Methods

A quantitative cross‐sectional study was conducted with a sample of 70 overweight adolescents aged between 12 and 18 (52.9% girls), evaluated at baseline and at week 12 using anthropometric measurements and self‐reported questionnaires. We analysed gender‐specific differences related to body self‐esteem, social life, relationships with their family, physical comfort, health responsibility, perceived benefits of the intervention, self‐efficacy and adherence. We further investigated whether the variables at week 12 would predict changes in their body mass index.

Results

While weight had a greater impact on the body self‐esteem of girls, both at baseline and week 12, boys reported higher self‐efficacy and adherence as well as a greater perception of the benefits of the intervention at week 12. The body mass index change was positively associated with body self‐esteem, relationships within the family and self‐efficacy and adherence.

Conclusion

Gender specifics and the role of psychosocial variables must be taken into account during weight management programmes for adolescents, and it is important to include the family throughout the entire process.
Re‐appropriating the political through enacting a pedagogical politics of place
Authors: Crossan John
Published: October 2016

This paper critically analyses the post‐political thesis, highlighting its universalising and agency‐grabbing tendencies. Drawing on my own family life, anarchist theory and long‐standing traditions of “properly” political placemaking by past and present grassroots actors, the paper unsettles two interrelated claims on which the post‐political thesis sits. First, that the political (le politique) is in retreat. Second, that “proper” politics constitutes a confrontational set of relations. Informed by empirical observations I present an existing form of rigorous political encounter enacted in anarchist‐influenced social centres. The politics on offer here has a supportive pedagogical quality to it and, crucially, there are semblances of this pedagogical politics found in multiple sites. Focusing on the “micro‐physics of power” at work in social centres, I show how such organisational practices counter the predetermined finalities of the post‐political condition by enacting what I call “equality‐as‐tactic”. Community here is not an empty vessel that can be easily filled with “empty signifiers”. On the contrary, post‐political practices tend to crack under the scrutiny of a pedagogical politics aimed at equalising participation in the decisionmaking process.
Optimisation of combi‐lipases from Aspergillus niger for the synergistic and efficient hydrolysis of soybean oil
Authors: Qiao Hanzhen , Zhang Fei , Guan Wutai , Zuo Jianjun , Feng Dingyuan
Published: October 2016

The enzymatic properties of four lipases (A, B, C and D) from different strains of Aspergillus niger, were investigated, and a 3‐factor mixture design and triangular surface analysis were performed to screen the optimal combi‐lipase by observing synergistic effects. Lipases B and D differed in optimal pH, temperature and substrate specificity. A combi‐lipase with 31.2% lipase B and 68.8% lipase D (w/w, equal to units of 30.36% and 69.64%) exhibited optimal hydrolytic activity on soybean oil, which exceeded the sum of the combined activities of individual lipases (P < 0.05). Free fatty acid from the hydrolyzed soybean oil indicated that the synergistic effect of the combi‐lipase resulted from the different fatty acid specificities of the two lipases. Overall, combi‐lipase afforded an effective route for the application of lipase enzymes to animal feeds.
Understanding the role of new systemic agents in the treatment of prostate cancer
Authors: Corfield Julia , Crozier Jack , Joshua Anthony M , Bolton Damien M. , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To examine the current literature and identify key consensus findings from the available studies to better educate urologists and medical oncologists on agents used in the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer (mPC).

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of the available literature on reported trials of systemic therapies for mPC. Two search terms were used: ‘metastatic prostate cancer’ and ‘treatment’.

Results

A variety of agents have demonstrated improved overall survival in patients with mPC. Twenty recently documented trials were reported in the literature with a focus on enzalutamide, abiraterone acetate, docetaxel and other newer agents. These studies were grouped based on patient populations.

Conclusion

The increasing number of high‐quality clinical trials, with overlapping patient populations has made defining the correct therapy for men with mPC challenging for urologists and medical oncologists. The data suggests that the optimal sequence of drugs is not only unknown but also not necessarily the same for each patient. As such, we suggest a more individualized approach to the treatment of prostate cancer depending on patient and disease factors.
Application of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Added Value Score in evaluating the effectiveness of Functional Family Therapy within local authority social work services
Authors: Marshall John , Hamilton Russell , Cairns Nicole
Published: October 2016

Background

As ‘Blueprints’ evidence‐based programmes, such as Functional Family Therapy (FFT), originating from the United States, are increasingly implemented in Social Work services, the importance of assessing their effectiveness in a UK context is crucial. To do this, it is not always practical for services to commission randomised control trials or quasi‐experimental control trials. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) Added Value Score has been shown to have utility in the evaluation of intervention programmes by controlling for regression to the mean, attenuation and the shifting nature of most childhood psychopathology.

Method

The SDQ Added Value Score was used to assess the effectiveness of FFT in two local authorities in Scotland. One hundred and sixty‐four families who had finished FFT completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Outcome Questionnaire and the Client Outcome Measure at pre‐ and postintervention.

Results

Both parents' and adolescents' average psychosocial distress scores significantly decreased on all measures after FFT and many of the scores postintervention fell to a range equivalent with the general population. Furthermore, calculation of the SDQ Added Value Score indicated that adolescents' mean total difficulties scores were lower following FFT than what would have been expected had this intervention not been received, producing an effect size that compares favourably to other interventions.

Conclusions

Functional Family Therapy has been identified as an effective intervention for improving the psychosocial functioning of high‐risk adolescents and their families.
Wnt‐β‐catenin signaling regulates ABCC3 (MRP3) transporter expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Minoru , Funayama Ryo , Ohnuma Shinobu , Unno Michiaki , Nakayama Keiko
Published: October 2016

We determined the gene expression profiles for 48 ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters in matched colon cancer and normal colon tissues in order to provide insight into the mechanisms underlying expression of transporters related to colon carcinogenesis. The expression of ABCB1, ABCC1, ABCC2, ABCC3, and ABCG2 was altered in association with colon carcinogenesis. Among these transporters, the expression of ABCC3 was repressed by Wnt signaling pathway in colon cancer cell lines. Knockdown of the pathway components transcription factor 7‐like 2 (TCF7L2) or β‐catenin thus increased ABCC3 expression, whereas activation of Wnt signaling with inhibitors of glycogen synthase kinase–3β (GSK‐3β) reduced it. ChIP and luciferase reporter assays also showed that TCF7L2 binds to the ABCC3 locus and regulates its expression. Finally, overexpression of ABCC3 in colon cancer cells conferred resistance to anticancer drug‐induced cytotoxicity. Our data thus suggest that Wnt signaling represses ABCC3 expression during colon carcinogenesis, and that subsequent upregulation of ABCC3 expression during drug treatment might contribute to acquired drug resistance.
Identifying research priorities with nurses at a tertiary children's hospital in the United Kingdom
Authors: Williams A. , Sell D. , Oulton K. , Wilson N. , Wray J. , Gibson F.
Published: October 2016

Aim

The objective of this study was to undertake a research priority setting exercise with the aim of maximizing efficiency and impact in research activity undertaken by nurses at one children's tertiary healthcare institution by ensuring the clinical staff directly shaped a coherent, transparent and consensus driven nurse‐led research agenda.

Background

In Round 1, the research topics of 147 nurses were elicited using a modified nominal group technique as the consensus method. The number of participants in the 24 separate discussions ranged from 3 to 21, generating lists of between 6 and 23 topics. In Round 2, nurses from the clinical areas ranked topics of importance resulting in a set of four to five priorities. In Round 3, the divisional heads of nursing consulted with staff in all of their clinical areas to each finalize their five divisional priorities. The Nursing Research Working Group discussed and refined the divisions' priorities and voted on the final list to agree the top five research priorities for the organization.

Results

A total of 269 research topics were initially generated. Following three rounds of ranking and prioritizing, five priorities were agreed at Divisional level, and from these, the five top organizational priorities were selected. These were (i) understanding and improving all aspects of the patient journey through the hospital system; (ii) play; (iii) staff wellbeing, patient care and productivity; (iv) team work – linking to a more efficient service; and (v) supporting parents/parent pathway.

Conclusions

Divisional priorities have been disseminated widely to clinical teams to inform a patient‐specific nurse‐led research agenda. Organizational priorities agreed upon have been disseminated through management structures and processes to ensure engagement at all levels. A subgroup of the Nursing Research Working Group has been delegated to take this work forward so that the agreed priorities continue to contribute towards shaping nurse‐led research activity, thereby going some way to inform and embed an evidence‐based culture of inquiry.
Novel DNMT3A germline mutations are associated with inherited Tatton‐Brown–Rahman syndrome
Authors: Xin B. , Cruz Marino T. , Szekely J. , Leblanc J. , Cechner K. , Sency V. , Wensel C. , Barabas M. , Therriault V. , Wang H.
Published: October 2016

Tatton‐Brown–Rahman syndrome (TBRS) was recently described in 13 isolated cases with de novo mutations in the DNMT3A gene. This autosomal dominant condition is characterized by tall stature, intellectual disability and a distinctive facial appearance. Here, we report six cases of inherited TBRS caused by novel DNMT3A germline mutations. The affected individuals belong to two sib‐ships: four from an Old Order Amish family in America and two from a French Canadian family in Canada. All of them presented with characteristic features of TBRS, including dysmorphic facial features, increased height, intellectual disability, and variable additional features. We performed clinical exome sequencing and identified two mutations in the DNMT3A gene, a c.2312G>A (p.Arg771Gln) missense mutation in the Amish family and a c.2296_2297delAA (p.Lys766Glufs*15) small deletion in the French Canadian family. Parental DNA analysis by Sanger sequencing revealed that the Amish mutation was inherited from the healthy mosaic father. This study reflects the first cases with inherited TBRS and expands the phenotypic spectrum of TBRS.
Vertical augmentation of the posterior atrophic mandible by interpositional grafts in a split‐mouth design: a human tomography evaluation pilot study
Authors: Domingues Eduardo Pinheiro , Ribeiro Rafael Fernandes , Horta Martinho Campolina Rebello , Manzi Flávio Ricardo , Côsso Maurício Greco , Zenóbio Elton Gonçalves
Published: October 2016

Objective

Using computed tomography, to compare vertical and volumetric bone augmentation after interposition grafting with bovine bone mineral matrix (GEISTLICH BIO‐OSS®) or hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate (STRAUMANN® BONECERAMIC) for atrophic posterior mandible reconstruction through segmental osteotomy.

Material and methods

Seven patients received interposition grafts in the posterior mandible for implant rehabilitation. The computed tomography cone beam images were analysed with OsiriX Imaging Software 6.5 (Pixmeo Geneva, Switzerland) in the pre‐surgical period (T0), at 15 days post‐surgery (T1) and at 180 days post‐surgery (T2). The tomographic analysis was performed by a single trained and calibrated radiologist. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric methods were used to analyse the data.

Results

There was a significant difference in vertical and volume augmentation with both biomaterials using the technique (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in volume change of the graft, bone volume augmentation, or augmentation of the maximum linear vertical distance between the two analysed biomaterials.

Conclusions

The GEISTLICH BIO‐OSS® and STRAUMANN® BONECERAMIC interposition grafts exhibited similar and sufficient dimensional stability and volume gain for short implants in the atrophic posterior mandible.
Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging for residual and recurrent cholesteatoma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Muzaffar J. , Metcalfe C. , Colley S. , Coulson C.
Published: October 2016

Background

Diagnosis and management of recurrent or residual cholesteatoma can be problematic. Diffusion‐weighted imaging magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences have been used for follow‐up of such lesions. More recent non‐echoplanar imaging (non‐EPI) sequences are thought to be superior to older echoplanar imaging (EPI) sequences.

Objective of review

Evaluate whether diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging is useful in the diagnosis of recurrent or residual cholesteatoma.

Type of review

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Search strategy

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science and the Cochrane Database were searched, with no limits on date or language.

Study Selection

Adults or children who had previously undergone tympanomastoid surgery by any method with confirmation of recurrence/residual disease by second‐look/revision surgery.

Evaluation methods

Two reviewers independently reviewed studies. Data extracted on 11 domains and rechecked.

Data synthesis

Statistical analysis with SPSS.

Results

A total of 575 studies were identified of which 27 met the inclusion criteria. These covered 727 patient episodes. For EPI studies: sensitivity (sd) 71.82 (24.5), specificity (sd) 89.36 (13.4), PPV (sd) 93.36 (8.1) and NPV (sd) 73.36 (15.8). For non‐EPI studies: sensitivity 89.79 (12.1), specificity (sd) 94.57 (5.8), PPV (sd) 96.50 (4.2) and NPV 80.46 (20.2). Improved sensitivity of non‐EPI sequences reached significance (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Diffusion‐weighted MRI is both sensitive and specific for the detection of recurrent or residual cholesteatoma following ear surgery. Non‐EPI techniques are superior to EPI techniques.
Associations between lifestyle factors and hand eczema severity: are tobacco smoking, obesity and stress significantly linked to eczema severity?
Authors: Sørensen Jennifer A. , Fisker Maja H. , Agner Tove , Clemmensen Kim K. B. , Ebbehøj Niels E.
Published: October 2016

Background

It has been suggested that lifestyle factors such as smoking, overweight and stress may influence the prevalence and severity of hand eczema.

Objectives

To investigate the association between lifestyle factors and hand eczema severity in a cohort of patients with work‐related hand eczema.

Methods

Individuals with work‐related hand eczema notified in the period between June 2012 and November 2013 were included in this questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study. Participants responded to a questionnaire including questions on lifestyle factors, as well as a photographic guide for assessment of severity of hand eczema and questions on quality of life.

Results

A total of 773 individuals (546 women and 227 men) responded to the questionnaire and were included in the study. A strong association was found between tobacco smoking and hand eczema severity (p = 0.003), whereas no significant association was found for body weight and stress. Other factors linked to severe eczema were male sex and older age (p = 0.04 and p = 0.01, respectively), and wet work (p = 0.08).

Conclusion

The data from the present study strongly support an association between smoking and hand eczema severity. However, owing to the cross‐sectional design of the study, no conclusion on causation can be drawn.
Occupational dermatitis in hairdressers – influence of individual and environmental factors
Authors: Carøe Tanja K. , Ebbehøj Niels E. , Agner Tove
Published: October 2016

Background

Hairdressers are at risk of developing occupational contact dermatitis because of their intense contact with wet work in combination with chemicals.

Objectives

To perform an analysis of a cohort study of hairdressers with occupational contact dermatitis recognized in the period 2006–2011, focusing on individual and environmental factors associated with the disease.

Methods

The study was a descriptive, register‐based survey including all hairdressers with recognized occupational contact dermatitis in Denmark in the period January 2006 to September 2011. Data were obtained from the Danish National Board of Industrial Injuries.

Results

The study comprised 381 patients (373 women and 8 men). The median age was 25 years, 64.8% were apprentices, and 35.2% were fully trained hairdressers. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis was 36.0%, and was significantly higher among apprentices than among fully trained hairdressers (44.9% and 19.4%, respectively) (p < 0.001). Of the patients, 48.3% had their dermatitis recognized as occupational irritant contact dermatitis, 46.7% had their dermatitis recognized as as occupational allergic contact dermatitis or combined allergic and irritant contact dermatitis, and 5.0% were recognized as having occupational contact urticaria.

Conclusion

The low median age, the high percentages of atopic dermatitis in apprentices and the fact that more apprentices than fully trained hairdressers had recognized occupational contact dermatitis underlines the importance of early prevention.
Biosorption of lac dye by the red marine alga Gracilaria tenuistipitata: biosorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic parameters
Authors: Chairat Montra , Bremner John B.
Published: October 2016

The hypothesis that the dried, ground biomass of the red marine alga Gracilaria tenuistipitata could be used for the efficient removal of lac dye from aqueous solution was assessed in this work. The effects of parameters such as initial pH, biosorbent dosage, contact time, initial dye concentration, and temperature on the biosorption capacity of the dye were investigated. Equilibrium data were analysed using Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models, and the Freundlich model provided the highest coefficient of determination values. Biosorption kinetic data were successfully described with a pseudo‐second‐order model at initial dye concentrations of 50, 80, 100, and 120 mg l−1. The thermodynamic parameters of biosorption – enthalpy change (∆H° = −30.64 kJ mol−1), free energy change (∆G° = 4.32 kJ mol−1 at 303 K to 7.78 kJ mol−1 at 333 K), and entropy change (∆S° = −115.38 J mol−1 K−1) – were determined. The negative value of the enthalpy change and positive values of the free energy change indicate that the biosorption process is exothermic and non‐spontaneous. The negative value of the entropy change is consistent with decreased randomness at the solid–liquid interface with dye biosorption. Attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis confirmed the presence of lac dye on the G. tenuistipitata material. The efficiency of lac dye removal by this biomass material at 20 g l−1 and with an initial dye concentration of 50 mg l−1 in acidic solution was 71%, which indicated its potential usefulness as a new dye biosorbent.
Protected areas and spatial conservation priorities for endemic vertebrates of the Gran Chaco, one of the most threatened ecoregions of the world
Authors: Nori Javier , Torres Ricardo , Lescano Julián N. , Cordier Javier M. , Periago Maria E. , Baldo Diego
Published: October 2016

Aim

To evaluate the representativeness of the current network of protected areas (PAs) of one of the most threatened ecoregions in the world, the South American Gran Chaco, and determine priority conservation areas for endemic (and nearly endemic) terrestrial vertebrates of the region.

Location

South America.

Methods

We identified all those amphibians, mammals and birds whose distributions were at least 70% within the Gran Chaco. Then, we refined and corrected species’ distributional ranges, first, using records from collections and expert knowledge, and second, by incorporating environmental and topographic data using a technique for range polygon refinement. Lastly, we used Zonation, a spatial conservation prioritization software, to evaluate representativeness of the current protected areas (PAs) network of the region and to define forest remnants to strategically expand PAs while maximizing the representativeness of the selected groups and considering human activities.

Results

Current PAs cover 9% of the region and represent 9.1% of the total distribution of endemic species. Considering our prioritization, increasing the coverage to 17% to match the Aichi targets would substantially increase the representativeness of the PA network, covering on average more than 30% of the ranges of all endemic species and 77% of the distributions of threatened and DD endemic species.

Main conclusions

Our results highlight that the need for well‐informed decisions in the Gran Chaco is imperative. While the current PA network in the region ensures a very poor representation of endemic terrestrial vertebrates, opportunities to efficiently expand the PAs network are really high. This emphasizes the potential of complementarity‐based systematic conservation planning tools as an essential support for conservation decisions. Given the great information gaps regarding biodiversity and human activities in the region, similar studies with updated data would improve conservation planning in the Gran Chaco in the future.