bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telling children their mother is seriously ill or dying: mapping French people's views
Authors: Muñoz Sastre M. T. , Sorum P. C. , Mullet E.
Published: July 2015

Background

What to tell children when their mother's life is seriously endangered is a largely unstudied issue.

Methods

We had 255 lay persons in France judge the appropriateness of the parents' behaviour in 48 scenarios of parents dealing with this problem. The scenarios comprised according to a four within‐subject orthogonal design: child's age (4, 6, 8 or 10 years), severity of disease (lethal or worrisome but curable), child's concern or not about his or her mother's illness and parents' decision about how much to tell (tell nothing, minimize or tell the full truth).

Results

Cluster analysis revealed four clusters, labelled ‘always tell the truth’ (33%), ‘tell the truth or minimize’ (16%), ‘tell nothing or minimize’ (22%) and ‘depends on child's age and level of concern’ (29%). Women and participants who had already faced breaking bad news like this to children were more frequently members of the two ‘tell the truth’ clusters than other participants.

Conclusions

People who have already experienced a situation of having to tell a child about their mother's bad health tend to think, more than others, that telling the truth is the best policy.
Postoperative biochemical remission of serum calcitonin is the best predictive factor for recurrence‐free survival of medullary thyroid cancer: a large‐scale retrospective analysis over 30 years
Authors: Jung Kyong Yeun , Kim Seok‐Mo , Yoo Won Sang , Kim Bup‐Woo , Lee Yong Sang , Kim Kyung Won , Lee Kyu Eun , Jeong Jong Ju , Nam Kee‐Hyun , Lee Se Hoon , Hah Jeong Hun , Chung Woong Youn , Yi Ka Hee , Park Do Joon , Youn Yeo‐Kyu , Sung Myung‐Whun , Cho Bo Youn , Park Cheong Soo , Park Young Joo , Chang Hang‐Seok
Published: July 2015

Context

The increase in thyroid screening in the general population may lead to earlier detection of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

Objective

We aimed to evaluate secular trends in clinicopathological characteristics and long‐term prognosis of MTC and its prognostic factors.

Design

This was a retrospective analysis from 1982 to 2012.

Patients

Three hundred and thirty‐one patients with MTC were included and grouped based on the year of diagnosis (1982–2000, 2001–2005, 2006–2010 and 2011–2012).

Measurements

These included recurrence and mortality as well as biochemical remission (BCR) of serum calcitonin.

Results

Mean tumour size (from 2·5 cm to 1·7 cm, P < 0·001) and percentage of extrathyroidal extension (from 52·0% to 26·0%, P = 0·026) decreased. The percentage of patients achieving BCR within six postoperative months (po‐BCR) increased with time (from 39·6% to 76·1%, P < 0·001). The 5‐year overall recurrence rate significantly decreased in 2006–2012 compared to 1982–2005 (10% vs 18%, respectively, P = 0·031), although the 5‐year survival rate did not improve (92% vs 92%, P = 0·929). Failure to achieve po‐BCR was the strongest predictive factor associated with recurrence (hazard ratio [HR]  = 58·04, 95% CI 7·14–472·11; P < 0·001). Male gender (HR = 3·18, 95% CI 1·18–8·56; P = 0·022), tumour size >2 cm (HR = 18·33, 95% CI 2·35–143·06; P = 0·006) and distant metastasis (HR = 4·00, 95% CI 1·31–12·21; P = 0·015) were significant prognostic factors for mortality.

Conclusions

Clinicopathological characteristics and recurrence of MTC improved with time. Po‐BCR was the best predictive factor for recurrence‐free survival.
Accelerated Osteogenic Differentiation and Bone Formation on Zirconia with Surface Grooves Created with Fiber Laser Irradiation
Authors: Taniguchi Yusuke , Kakura Kae , Yamamoto Katsuki , Kido Hirofumi , Yamazaki Jun
Published: July 2015

Background

Modification of the surface topography of biomaterials is a critical factor for the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts. Elucidating the biological response to surface roughening is necessary for clinical application of zirconia implants.

Purpose

To investigate the effects of fiber laser‐induced zirconia surface roughening on cultured osteoblast‐like cell morphology, proliferation, differentiation, and calcification, and on in vivo bone formation.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐six machine‐surfaced yttria‐tetragonal zirconia polycrystal plates (S‐Zr) and 16 machine‐surfaced implants were used as controls. We prepared 66 rough plates (R‐Zr) and 16 rough implants by surface treatment using a fiber laser.

Results

MC3T3‐E1 cells spread well in all directions on S‐Zr, whereas elongated cells with poorly organized actin stress fibers were observed on R‐Zr. Cell proliferation was significantly greater on R‐Zr than on S‐Zr. The Runx2 mRNA level increased time dependently in osteogenic culture condition. Alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin mRNA levels were higher on R‐Zr compared with S‐Zr. Alizarin red S staining revealed greater calcification on R‐Zr than on S‐Zr. Laser treatment of zirconia implant bodies placed in rat tibiae increased the bone‐implant contact ratio and removal torque considerably.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that fiber laser irradiation produces adequate surface roughening of zirconia ceramics to support osseointegration.
Disaggregating the Demand for Pesticides: Does it Matter?
Authors: Fadhuile Adélaïde , Lemarié Stéphane , Pirotte Alain
Published: July 2015

This paper analyzes the demand of French farmers for pesticides by disaggregating among the three main categories of pesticides. We estimate the demand elasticities of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides with respect to pesticide expenditure, and also consider crop differentiation. We retain a Linear Approximated Almost Ideal Demand System specification. A Full‐Information Maximum Likelihood estimation procedure is used to deal with corner solution problems and censored data. The estimation is based on two cross‐sections covering pesticide use of three major crops cultivated in France in 2001 and 2006. Our results show that farmers' response to price variation is very low, especially for 2001. Furthermore, elasticities of pesticide expenditure are significantly different across categories: the highest levels are obtained for fungicides and the lowest ones for insecticides. Finally, we find higher own‐price elasticities for herbicides and fungicides than for insecticides, which are less frequently used.
The prevalence of peri‐implant diseases for two‐piece implants with an internal tube‐in‐tube connection: a cross‐sectional analysis of 512 implants
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Becker Kathrin , Sahm Narja , Horstkemper Thomas , Rousi Khalifa , Becker Jürgen
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of peri‐implant health or disease for a two‐piece implant system with a tube‐in‐tube internal connection on the short‐, medium‐ and long term.

Material and methods

For this cross‐sectional analysis, 238 patients with a total of n = 512 implants were screened in six private practices and one university clinic in Germany. Peri‐implant health and disease was assessed according to strict case definitions. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the correlation with systemic factors.

Results

After a median function time of 23 months, the prevalence of peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis amounted to 41.6% and 13.9%, corresponding to 35.6% and 7.6% at the implant level, respectively. Factors plaque (odds ratio [OR], 8.415) and gender “male” (OR, 2.003) were significantly correlated with the event peri‐implant mucositis. The event peri‐implantitis was significantly correlated with plaque (OR, 9.250) and smoking (OR, 2.679).

Conclusion

The prevalence of peri‐implant diseases was correlated with patient‐specific factors.
A computer‐based method for precise detection and calculation of affected skin areas
Authors: Henriksen Sille Mølvig , Nybing Janus Damm , Bouert Rasmus , Havsteen Inger , Christensen Anders F. , Jensen Kenneth , Christensen Hanne , Børglum Jens
Published: July 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to describe and validate a method to obtain reproducible and comparable results concerning extension of a specific skin area, unaffected by individual differences in body surface area.

Methods

A phantom simulating the human torso was equipped with three irregular areas representing the increasing extension of an affected skin area over time. A large sheet of flexible calques paper was placed at the phantom, and five clinicians copied the three irregular shapes two times, resulting in 60 copies. Subsequently, a digital photograph was taken of the calques papers with a clinical ruler placed at the margin. The images were postprocessed and measured in the program ‘ImageJ’ by two observers. An exact area measurement of the three irregular shapes was performed for comparison.

Results

We found an interobserver variation of 0·36% when comparing the measurements of all three areas. Comparing observer measurements with the exact areas size, we found an underestimate of 2·52%. We observed a tendency that the discrepancy in measurement increases when the measured area decreases.

Conclusion

We find this method accurate, reproducible and easy to use. The presented method can be of help when documenting psoriasis and other dermatologic conditions as well as when exploring the effects of new types and variations of ultrasound‐guided peripheral nerve blocks – especially in study volunteers.
Increased ventilatory response to exercise in symptomatic and asymptomatic LMNA mutation carriers: a follow‐up study
Authors: Ollila Laura , Heliö Tiina , Sovijärvi Anssi , Jalanko Mikko , Kaartinen Maija , Kuusisto Johanna , Kärkkäinen Satu , Jurkko Raija , Reissell Eeva , Palojoki Eeva , Piirilä Päivi
Published: July 2015

Background

LMNA mutations are an important cause of cardiomyopathy often leading to cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure and even heart transplantation. An increasing number of asymptomatic mutation carriers are identified, as family members of the index patients are screened. Our aim was to study the disease progression in asymptomatic LMNA mutation carriers and in patients with symptomatic cardiolaminopathy by repeated spiroergometric testing in a prospective clinical follow‐up study.

Methods and Results

We studied 26 LMNA mutation carriers once a year during 5 years up to 6 times by spiroergometry, clinical assessment, laboratory tests and echocardiography. The 23 control subjects underwent clinical assessment and spiroergometry once. Twelve of the mutation carriers were asymptomatic, and 14 had some clinical manifestations of the mutation ranging from clinically relevant rhythm disturbances to DCM and heart failure. Compared to controls, the symptomatic carriers showed a higher slope of the ventilatory equivalent for CO2 (E/CO2 slope) and a lower fraction of end‐tidal CO2 (FetCO2). The asymptomatic mutation carriers also showed an increased ventilatory response to exercise during the follow‐up as indicated by increased E/CO2 slope and decreased FetCO2.

Conclusions

The study suggests that an increased ventilatory response during exercise might reveal a preclinical manifestation of DCM in LMNA mutation carriers.
Elevated resting heart rate in heart transplant recipients: innocent bystander or adverse prognostic indicator?
Authors: Wachter S. Blake , McCandless Sean P. , Gilbert Edward M. , Stoddard Gregory J. , Kfoury Abdallah G. , Reid Bruce B. , McKellar Stephen H. , Nativi‐Nicolau Jose , Saidi Abdulfattah , Barney Jacob , McCreath Lauren , Koliopoulou Antigone , Wright Spencer E. , Fang James C. , Stehlik Josef , Selzman Craig H. , Drakos Stavros G.
Published: July 2015

Background

The elevated baseline heart rate (HR) of a heart transplant recipient has previously been considered inconsequential. However, we hypothesized that a resting HR above 100 beats per minute (bpm) may be associated with morbidity and mortality.

Methods

The U.T.A.H. Cardiac Transplant Program studied patients who received a heart transplant between 2000 and 2011. Outpatient HR values for each patient were averaged during the first year post‐transplant. The study cohort was divided into two groups: the tachycardic (TC) (HR >100 bpm) and the non‐TC group (HR ≤100 bpm) in which mortality, incidence of rejection, and cardiac allograft vasculopathy were compared.

Results

Three hundred and ten patients were included as follows: 73 in the TC and 237 in the non‐TC group. The TC group had a higher risk of a 10‐yr all‐cause mortality (p = 0.004) and cardiovascular mortality (p = 0.044). After adjustment for donor and recipient characteristics in multivariable logistic regression analysis, the hazard ratio was 3.9, (p = 0.03, CI: 1.2–13.2) and 2.6 (p = 0.02, CI: 1.2–5.5) for cardiovascular mortality and all‐cause mortality, respectively.

Conclusion

Heart transplant recipients with elevated resting HR appear to have higher mortality than those with lower resting HR. Whether pharmacologically lowering the HR would result in better outcomes warrants further investigation.
A comparison of long‐term outcomes of portal versus systemic venous drainage in pancreatic transplantation: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Oliver Joseph B. , Beidas Abdel‐Kareem , Bongu Advaith , Brown Lloyd , Shapiro Michael E.
Published: July 2015

Pancreas transplantation venous effluent can be drained via the portal vein or the systemic circulation; however, no recommendation exists for the ideal technique. A systematic review of the literature from 1989 through 2014 using PubMed, CINHAL, and Cochrane Library for portal versus systemic venous drainage was undertaken. Only studies on humans and published in English were considered. Measures of glycemic control and total cholesterol were synthesized for meta‐analysis utilizing random‐effects models. Of 166 articles retrieved, 15 articles were included for meta‐analysis. Patient and graft survival were comparable in a large database study as well as in the only randomized control study. No differences in complications were seen when exocrine drainage was enteric for the systemic venous group. Fasting insulin (−34.13 pmol/mL, p < 0.001) was significantly lower within the portal drained group; however, fasting blood glucose levels (−3.4 mg/dL, p = 0.32) and hemoglobin A1C levels (mean difference 0.124%, p = 0.25) were comparable. Total cholesterol levels (−3.62 mg/dL, p = 0.447), as well as other measures of lipids, showed no difference. Based on this systematic review and meta‐analysis, there is no evidence of differences in outcomes or metabolic control in patients undergoing pancreatic transplant with portal venous drainage compared to the systemic venous drainage.
Green tea in dermatology – myths and facts
Authors: Zink Alexander , Traidl‐Hoffmann Claudia
Published: July 2015

Green tea consumption has a long tradition in Asian countries – especially China. The epidemiologically and experimentally observed anticarcinogenic and antiinflammatory effects of green tea have led to the implementation of green tea extracts in multiple therapeutic applications – both in dermatological and cosmeceutical preparations. The most abundant evidence exists for the anticarcinogenic and chemopreventive effect of green tea or its major constituent epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate. Almost equally evident is the effect in infectious diseases such as cutaneous viral infections. For external genital warts, a topical ointment with green tea extracts was licensed in the USA in 2010, and recently also in Europe. Experimental evidence pinpointing the block of central signal transduction factors in inflammatory mechanisms has led to the evaluation of catechins in inflammatory disorders such as atopic dermatitis. The belief of green tea as a “wonder weapon” against diseases dates back thousands of years. According to a Chinese legend, ancient Emperor Shen Nung noted a delightful aroma after some leaves of a nearby tree had fallen into boiling water. He immediately proclaimed the new “drink” as “heaven‐sent”, starting the belief – persisting until today – of green tea as a medication from nature against many different diseases. This review summarizes biological effects and clinical implications of green tea.
Impact of B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) on development of atrial fibrillation in people with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kishimoto I. , Makino H. , Ohata Y. , Tamanaha T. , Tochiya M. , Kusano K. , Anzai T. , Toyoda K. , Yasuda S. , Minematsu K. , Ogawa H.
Published: July 2015

Aims

To examine if a simple biomarker can identify people with diabetes who are at high risk of atrial fibrillation.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single centre in people with Type 2 diabetes referred to our department between January 2000 and December 2007. In 517 consecutive people without any history, signs or symptoms of atrial fibrillation at baseline, the association between baseline B‐type natriuretic peptide level and future atrial fibrillation incidence was examined, with adjustments for other potentially confounding factors.

Results

A total of 28 people were diagnosed with new‐onset atrial fibrillation during a median 6‐year follow‐up. When people were categorized into three groups according to B‐type natriuretic peptide clinical thresholds (20 and 100 pg/ml), hazard ratios for the development of atrial fibrillation in the middle and highest B‐type natriuretic peptide groups were 2.8 and 9.4, respectively, compared with the lowest B‐type natriuretic peptide group. Time‐dependent receiver‐operating curve analysis identified a threshold for B‐type natriuretic peptide to detect atrial fibrillation development of 52.8 pg/ml (sensitivity 75.2%, specificity 68.8%). The B‐type natriuretic peptide predictive value was independent of and similar to that of left atrial size and ventricular dimension.

Conclusion

In people with Type 2 diabetes, high baseline B‐type natriuretic peptide levels were significantly associated with future atrial fibrillation development.
GSK2374697, a long duration glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist, reduces postprandial circulating endogenous total GLP‐1 and peptide YY in healthy subjects
Authors: Lin J. , Hodge R. J. , O'Connor‐Semmes R. L. , Nunez D. J.
Published: July 2015

We investigated the effects of a long‐duration glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist, GSK2374697, on postprandial endogenous total GLP‐1 and peptide YY (PYY). Two cohorts of healthy subjects, one normal/overweight and one obese, were randomized to receive GSK2374697 2 mg (n = 8 each) or placebo (n = 4 and n = 2) subcutaneously on days 1, 4 and 7. Samples for plasma endogenous GLP‐1 and PYY were collected after breakfast on days −1 and 12. Weighted mean area under the curve (0–4 h) of total GLP‐1 and PYY in treated subjects was reduced compared with placebo. The least squares mean difference for change from baseline was −1.24 pmol/l [95% confidence interval (CI) −2.33, −0.16] and −4.47 pmol/l (95% CI −8.74, −0.20) for total GLP‐1 and PYY, respectively, in normal/overweight subjects (p < 0.05 for both), and −1.56 (95% CI −2.95, −0.16) and −3.02 (95% CI −8.58, 2.55), respectively, in obese subjects (p < 0.05 for GLP‐1). In healthy subjects, GSK2374697 reduced postprandial total GLP‐1 and PYY levels, suggesting feedback suppression of enteroendocrine L‐cell secretion of these peptides.
Once‐weekly glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist dulaglutide is non‐inferior to once‐daily liraglutide and superior to placebo in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: a 26‐week randomized phase III study
Authors: Miyagawa J. , Odawara M. , Takamura T. , Iwamoto N. , Takita Y. , Imaoka T.
Published: July 2015

Aims

To examine the efficacy and safety of once‐weekly dulaglutide monotherapy (0.75 mg) compared with placebo and once‐daily liraglutide (0.9 mg) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This was a phase III, 52‐week (26‐week primary endpoint), randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, open‐label comparator (liraglutide) trial comparing 492 Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (dulaglutide, n = 281; liraglutide, n = 141; and placebo, n = 70) who were aged ≥20 years. Patients and investigators were blinded to treatment assignment for dulaglutide and placebo but not for liraglutide. The primary objective evaluated the superiority of dulaglutide versus placebo on change from baseline in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) at 26 weeks. Analyses were performed on the full analysis set.

Results

At 26 weeks, once‐weekly dulaglutide was superior to placebo and non‐inferior to once‐daily liraglutide for HbA1c change from baseline [least squares mean difference: dulaglutide vs placebo −1.57% (95% confidence interval −1.79 to −1.35); dulaglutide vs liraglutide −0.10% (95% confidence interval −0.27 to 0.07)]. The most frequently reported adverse events were nasopharyngitis, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal distension and decreased appetite; only decreased appetite was different between the dulaglutide and liraglutide groups [dulaglutide, n = 2 (0.7%); liraglutide, n = 8 (5.8%); p = 0.003]. Nine (1.8%) patients experienced hypoglycaemia [dulaglutide, n = 6 (2.1%); liraglutide, n = 2 (1.5%); placebo, n = 1 (1.4%)], with no event being severe.

Conclusions

In Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes, once‐weekly dulaglutide (0.75 mg) was superior to placebo and non‐inferior to once‐daily liraglutide (0.9 mg) for reduction in HbA1c at 26 weeks. Dulaglutide was safe and well tolerated.
Burning through the pain: treatments for diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Javed S. , Alam U. , Malik R. A.
Published: July 2015

The rise in the global burden of diabetes is spurring an increase in the prevalence of its complications. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common and devastating complication of diabetes, with multiple clinical manifestations. The most common is a symmetrical length‐dependent dysfunction and damage of peripheral nerves. The management of DPN rests on three tenets: intensive glycaemic control, even though the evidence of benefit is questionable in people with type 2 diabetes; pathogenetic therapies; and symptomatic treatment. A number of pathogenetic treatments have been evaluated in phase III clinical trials, including α‐lipoic acid (stems reactive oxygen species formation), benfotiamine (prevents vascular damage) and aldose‐reductase inhibitors (reduce flux through the polyol pathway), protein kinase C inhibitors (prevent hyperglycaemia‐induced activation of protein kinase C), nerve growth factors (stimulate nerve regeneration) and Actovegin® (improves tissue glucose and oxygen uptake). However, none have gained US Food and Drug Administration or European Medicines Agency (EMA) approval, questioning the validity of current trial designs and the endpoints deployed to define efficacy. For painful diabetic neuropathy, clinical guidelines recommend: atypical analgesics for pain relief, including duloxetine and amitriptyline; the γ‐aminobutyric acid analogues gabapentin and pregabalin; opioids, including Tapentadol; and topical agents such as lidocaine and capsaicin. No single effective treatment exists for painful DPN, highlighting a growing need for studies to evaluate more potent and targeted drugs, as well as combinations. A number of novel potential candidates, including erythropoietin analogues and angiotensin II type 2 receptor anatagonists are currently being evaluated in phase II clinical trials.
Efficacy and safety of liraglutide versus placebo added to basal insulin analogues (with or without metformin) in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Ahmann A. , Rodbard H. W. , Rosenstock J. , Lahtela J. T. , de Loredo L. , Tornøe K. , Boopalan A. , Nauck M. A. ,   on behalf of the NN2211‐3917 Study Group
Published: July 2015

Aim

To confirm the superiority, compared with placebo, of adding liraglutide to pre‐existing basal insulin analogue ± metformin in adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes [glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0–10.0% (53–86 mmol/mol)].

Methods

In this 26‐week, double‐blind, parallel‐group study, conducted in clinics or hospitals, 451 subjects were randomized 1 : 1 to once‐daily liraglutide 1.8 mg (dose escalated from 0.6 and 1.2 mg/day, respectively, for 1 week each; n = 226) or placebo (n = 225) added to their pre‐existing basal insulin analogue (≥20 U/day) ± metformin (≥1500 mg/day). After randomization, insulin adjustments above the pre‐study dose were not allowed. The primary endpoint was HbA1c change.

Results

After 26 weeks, HbA1c decreased more with liraglutide [−1.3% (−14.2 mmol/mol)] than with placebo [−0.1% (−1.2 mmol/mol); p < 0.0001]. More subjects on liraglutide reached HbA1c targets: <7.0% (59% vs 14%; p < 0.0001) and ≤6.5% (43% vs 4%; p < 0.0001) using slightly less insulin (35.8 IU vs 40.1 IU). Greater decreases from baseline (estimated treatment differences vs placebo; p < 0.0001) occurred in fasting plasma glucose (−1.3 mmol/l), seven‐point glucose profiles (−1.6 mmol/l), body weight (−3.1 kg) and systolic blood pressure (−5.0 mmHg). Transient gastrointestinal adverse events (nausea: 22.2% vs 3.1%) and minor hypoglycaemia (18.2% vs 12.4%) were more frequent with liraglutide than placebo, and pulse increased (4.5 beats/min) compared with placebo. No severe hypoglycaemia or pancreatitis occurred.

Conclusions

Adding liraglutide to a basal insulin analogue ± metformin significantly improved glycaemic control, body weight and systolic blood pressure compared with placebo. Typical gastrointestinal symptoms and minor hypoglycaemia were more frequent with liraglutide.
Which Domestic Firms Benefit from FDI? Evidence from Selected African Countries
Authors: Boly Amadou , Coniglio Nicola D. , Prota Francesco , Seric Adnan
Published: July 2015

The existing literature on the effects of FDI inflows on domestic firms' performance offers ambiguous evidence. Macro‐level studies suggest that the characteristics of inward FDI and the ‘absorptive capacity’ of the host economy matter in determining the sign (or the mere existence) of these effects. Studies based on micro‐level data have so far mostly focused on finding a nexus between FDI inflows and the productivity of domestic firms, suggesting that the effects might be highly heterogeneous. This article, using a recent firm‐level survey conducted by UNIDO in 19 sub‐Saharan African countries, explores the channels through which multinational enterprises may exert an impact on local firms: products’ market, input availability and costs, access to finance and export opportunities, and analyses the strategic reactions of domestic firms induced by the presence of foreign affiliates.
Mitral Annular Plane Systolic Excursion–Derived Ejection Fraction: A Simple and Valid Tool in Adult Males With Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Adel Walaa , Roushdy Alaa M. , Nabil Mohamed
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Validation of a mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE)–derived formula to calculate the ejection fraction where EF = 4.8 × MAPSE (mm) + 5.8 in adult males with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction.

Background

Echocardiographic assessment of LV function generally requires expert echocardiographer and is somewhat subjective and prone to reader discordance. MAPSE has been suggested as a surrogate measurement for LV function.

Methods

Prospective analysis of 170 male patients with systolic dysfunction by two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was carried out. MAPSE and ejection fraction measured by qualitative visual inspection, M‐mode, and biplane modified Simpson's rule were measured. MAPSE‐derived EF was compared against other conventional methods to measure EF using Bland–Altman analysis and independent t‐test.

Results

There was a significant positive correlation between average MAPSE and EF measured by M‐mode (r = 0.554, P < 0.001), Simpson's rule (r = 0.585, P < 0.001), and visual inspection (r = 0.611, P < 0.001). An average MAPSE cutoff value <= 5 provided the best balanced sensitivity (67.1%) and specificity (76.5%) to predict EF < 30%. The mean difference between MAPSE‐derived EF and EF measured by visual inspection and by Simpson's method was 3.86 ± 5.24% and 3.57 ± 5.97%, respectively. The least mean difference of 0.5 ± 5.69% was present between MAPSE‐derived EF and M–mode‐measured EF (P value 0.2).

Conclusion

MAPSE‐derived EF using the equation EF = 4.8 × MAPSE (mm) + 5.8 is a valid technique in adult males with severely impaired LV EF.
FIRM SURVIVAL, UNCERTAINTY, AND FINANCIAL FRICTIONS: IS THERE A FINANCIAL UNCERTAINTY ACCELERATOR?
Authors: Byrne Joseph P. , Spaliara Marina‐Eliza , Tsoukas Serafeim
Published: July 2015

Using a large panel of unquoted UK firms over the period 2000–2009, we examine the impact of firm‐specific uncertainty on corporate failures. In this context we also distinguish between firms which are likely to be more or less dependent on bank finance as well as public and nonpublic companies. Our results document a significant effect of uncertainty on firm survival. This link is found to be more potent during the recent financial crisis compared with tranquil periods. We also uncover significant firm‐level heterogeneity because the survival chances of bank‐dependent and nonpublic firms are most affected by changes in uncertainty, especially during the recent global financial crisis. (JEL E44, F32, F34, G32)
Difference in pressure‐formed mouthguard thickness according to heating condition
Authors: Mizuhashi Fumi , Koide Kaoru , Takahashi Mutsumi
Published: July 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences of pressure‐formed mouthguard thickness by varying the heating conditions within the proper heating temperature.

Materials and methods

The material used in this study was a mouthguard sheet of 3.8‐mm ethylene vinyl acetate. The sheets were formed by pressure forming using a vacuum‐pressure former. Three heating conditions were varied as follows: the sheet was heated until the center was displaced by 10, 15, and 20 mm from baseline. We measured the mouthguard thickness at the labial surface of the central incisor, buccal surface of the first molar, and occlusal surface of the first molar. Differences in thickness by measurement region of the mouthguards formed under different heating conditions were analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance and Bonferroni's method.

Results

We found that mouthguard thickness varied in different regions of the central incisors and the first molars (P < 0.01). The incisal (cusp) region was thinner than the cervical region. There were statistically significant differences among the heating conditions at the labial surface of the central incisor (P < 0.05), and the thickness became larger as the sheet was heated. Mouthguard thickness at the buccal surface and occlusal surface of the first molar did not differ among the three heating conditions.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the best heating condition of the pressure‐forming method was the condition that the sheet was heated until its center displaced by 20 mm. This finding is an important fact when fabricating a mouthguard.
The selective florivory of Erioscelis emarginata matches its role as a pollinator of Philodendron
Authors: Maldonado Marina , Sakuragui Cassia Monica , Trigo José Roberto , Rodrigues Daniela
Published: July 2015

Flowers commonly face the dilemma of needing to be attractive to pollinators but unattractive to nectar robbers or florivores. When the pollinator has chewing mouthparts, there is also a considerable risk of the pollinator consuming the flowers. Scant field records indicate that the florivorous beetle Erioscelis emarginata (Mannerheim) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cyclocephalini), which pollinates Philodendron spp., feeds selectively on the sterile staminate flowers. Here, the hypothesis was tested that E. emarginata prefers sterile staminate flowers of Philodendron bipinnatifidum Schott and Philodendron melinonii Brongn. ex Regel (Araceae) over fertile flowers. This study also examined whether such a preference exists regardless of the proportion of fertile vs. sterile flowers in each Philodendron species. Analysis of nutritional and defensive compounds plus scanning electron microscopy on each flower type were performed. The feeding preference of florivores for either P. bipinnatifidum or P. melinonii was also examined. In both species, sterile flowers were significantly more consumed than fertile ones. The sterile zone of P. bipinnatifidum was significantly larger than that of P. melinonii, and sterile staminate flowers of both plants were consumed at similar rates. Calcium oxalate was markedly low in sterile flowers, which also presented smaller papillae than the other flowers. This study presents evidence that the balance between pollination and florivory has most likely evolved through a strong feeding preference for less‐defended sterile flowers regardless of the size of the sterile zone.
Domain‐specific impairment in cognitive control among remitted youth with a history of major depression
Authors: Peters Amy T. , Jacobs Rachel H. , Crane Natania A. , Ryan Kelly A. , Weisenbach Sara L. , Ajilore Olusola , Lamar Melissa , Kassel Michelle T. , Gabriel Laura B. , West Amy E. , Zubieta Jon‐Kar , Langenecker Scott A.
Published: July 2015

Aim

Impairment in neuropsychological functioning is common in major depressive disorder (MDD), but it is not clear to what degree these deficits are related to risk (e.g. trait), scar, burden or state effects of MDD. The objective of this study was to use neuropsychological measures, with factor scores in verbal fluency, processing speed, attention, set‐shifting and cognitive control in a unique population of young, remitted, unmedicated, early course individuals with a history of MDD in hopes of identifying putative trait markers of MDD.

Methods

Youth aged 18–23 in remission from MDD (rMDD; n = 62) and healthy controls (HC; n = 43) were assessed with neuropsychological tests at two time points. These were from four domains of executive functioning, consistent with previous literature as impaired in MDD: verbal fluency and processing speed, conceptual reasoning and set‐shifting, processing speed with interference resolution, and cognitive control.

Results

rMDD youth performed comparably to HCs on verbal fluency and processing speed, processing speed with interference resolution, and conceptual reasoning and set‐shifting, reliably over time. Individuals with rMDD demonstrated relative decrements in cognitive control at Time 1, with greater stability than HC participants.

Conclusion

MDD may be characterized by regulatory difficulties that do not pertain specifically to active mood state or fluctuations in symptoms. Deficient cognitive control may represent a trait vulnerability or early course scar of MDD that may prove a viable target for secondary prevention or early remediation.
Associations between duration of untreated psychosis and domains of positive and negative symptoms
Authors: Birnbaum Michael L. , Wan Claire Ramsay , Broussard Beth , Compton Michael T.
Published: July 2015

Aim

The duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) has been established as an independent and significant predictor of negative outcomes in first‐episode psychosis samples. Whereas literature has supported the association between DUP and severity of positive and negative symptoms, surprisingly little research to date has explored specifically what types of positive and negative symptoms are most associated with DUP.

Methods

DUP, Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS) and Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) data were collected in 247 first‐episode psychosis participants (mean age: 23.9 ± 4.8) between August 2008 and June 2013.

Results

DUP was significantly but modestly associated with the severity of hallucinations (ρ = 0.222; P = 0.001), delusions (r = 0.202; P = 0.003) and formal thought disorder (ρ = 0.138; P = 0.043) but was not associated with bizarre behaviour. DUP was significantly but modestly associated with SANS avolition‐apathy (ρ = 0.164; P = 0.016) and anhedonia‐asociality (r = 0.321; P < 0.001) subscales but was not associated with affective flattening or blunting, alogia or attention.

Conclusions

DUP is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is associated with early‐course illness development. In efforts to improve early intervention services, prognoses and outcomes, it is vital to understand both the factors that contribute to lengthy untreated psychosis as well as the illness characteristics that are impacted by untreated psychosis.
Rapid rFVIIa enhanced on‐demand dosing in haemophilia inhibitor patients
Authors: Morfini Massimo
Published: July 2015

Recombinant factor VII activated (rFVIIa) is a bypassing agent widely used in haemophilia A and B patients with antibodies against coagulation factors VIII or IX. When used according to the correct doses, rFVIIa may control bleeding, subclinical bleeding and rebleeding, avoiding the effect of neutralising inhibitors. Because of the fast action of the rFVIIa, haemostasis occurs promptly and enables a fast bleeding control with on‐demand treatment in home or in surgical setting. Rapidity is also a distinguishing feature in preparation and injection of rFVIIa to cope the restraining times of busy patients and parents. The effective haemostatic activity of rFVIIa enables a sustained bleeding control, which is implemented with every other day (eod) administration and suited for enhanced on‐demand therapy and short‐term repeated infusions use of rFVIIa to prevent microhaemorrhages or rebleeding. Comprehensive appreciation of these pharmacological and pharmacodynamic’ characteristics will likely be a further stimulus to the wider enhanced on‐demand use of rFVIIa.
Recommendations on the clinical use of bendamustine in lymphoproliferative syndromes and multiple myeloma
Authors: Peñalver Francisco Javier , Delgado Julio , Loscertales Javier , Sastre Jose Luis , Peña Asunción , Olave María Teresa , Osorio Santiago , de la Fuente Adolfo , Salar Antonio , Grande Carlos , Pérez Ceballos Elena , Debén Guillermo , Echeveste Asunción , Casado Felipe , de la Rubia Javier , Lahuerta Juan José , Mateos María Victoria
Published: July 2015

Bendamustine is an increasingly used hybrid alkylating agent that is active in lymphoid neoplasias via a novel mechanism of action. There are some pending questions about its use in clinical practice because of its developmental features. A consensus panel of several leading Spanish hematologists with broad experience in the clinical use of bendamustine has established recommendations for the management and treatment of hematological patients with bendamustine based on available clinical data and the experience of the participants. These recommendations address the dose and treatment regimen for different clinical indications, the management of toxicity, and support therapy. This article contains the conclusions of this consensus panel, which are intended to serve as guidelines for the use of bendamustine.
The neural basis of value accumulation in intertemporal choice
Authors: Rodriguez Christian A. , Turner Brandon M. , Van Zandt Trisha , McClure Samuel M.
Published: July 2015

Making intertemporal choices (choosing between rewards available at different points in time) requires determining and comparing the subjective values of available rewards. Several studies have found converging evidence identifying the neural systems that encode subjective value in intertemporal choice. However, the neural mechanisms responsible for the process that produces intertemporal decisions on the basis of subjective values have not been investigated. Using model‐based and connectivity analyses of functional magnetic resonance imaging data, we investigated the neural mechanisms underlying the value‐accumulation process by which subjective value guides intertemporal decisions. Our results show that the dorsomedial frontal cortex, bilateral posterior parietal cortex, and bilateral lateral prefrontal cortex are all involved in the accumulation of subjective value for the purpose of action selection. Our findings establish a mechanistic framework for understanding frontoparietal contributions to intertemporal choice and suggest that value‐accumulation processes in the frontoparietal cortex may be a general mechanism for value‐based choice.
Improvement of cold injury‐induced mouse brain edema by endothelin ETB antagonists is accompanied by decreases in matrixmetalloproteinase 9 and vascular endothelial growth factor‐A
Authors: Michinaga Shotaro , Seno Naoki , Fuka Mayu , Yamamoto Yui , Minami Shizuho , Kimura Akimasa , Hatanaka Shunichi , Nagase Marina , Matsuyama Emi , Yamanaka Daisuke , Koyama Yutaka
Published: July 2015

Brain edema is a potentially fatal pathological state that often occurs after brain injuries such as ischemia and trauma. However, therapeutic agents that fundamentally treat brain edema have not yet been established. We previously found that endothelin ETB receptor antagonists attenuate the formation and maintenance of vasogenic brain edema after cold injury in mice. In this study, the effects of ETB antagonists on matrixmetalloproteinase (MMP)9 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐A expression were examined in the cold injury model. Cold injury was performed in the left brain of male ddY mice (5–6 weeks old) for the induction of vasogenic edema. Expression of MMP9 and VEGF‐A mRNA in the mouse cerebrum was increased by cold injury. Immunohistochemical observations showed that the MMP9 and VEGF‐A were mainly produced in reactive astrocytes in the damaged cerebrum. Intracerebroventricular administration of BQ788 (10 μg) or IRL‐2500 (10 μg) (selective ETB antagonists) attenuated brain edema and disruption of the blood–brain barrier after cold injury. BQ788 and IRL‐2500 reversed the cold injury‐induced increases in MMP9 and VEGF‐A expression. The induction of reactive astrocytes producing MMP9 and VEGF‐A in the damaged cerebrum was attenuated by BQ788 and IRL‐2500. These results suggest that attenuations of astrocytic MMP9 and VEGF‐A expression by ETB antagonists may be involved in the amelioration of vasogenic brain edema.
Assessment of soil water repellency as a function of soil moisture with mixed modelling
Authors: Fishkis O. , Wachten M. , Hable R.
Published: July 2015

An understanding of the relation between soil water repellency (SWR) and soil moisture is a prerequisite of water‐flow modelling in water‐repellent soil. Here, the relation between SWR and soil moisture was investigated with intact cores of soil taken from three types of soil with different particle‐size distributions. The SWR was measured by a sessile drop contact angle (CA) during drying at soil pF values that ranged from −∞ to 4.2. From the measured CA, the work of adhesion (Wa) was calculated and its relation with the pF‐value was explored. Mixed modelling was applied to evaluate the effects of pF, soil type and soil depth on CA and Wa. For all soil types, a positive relation was observed between CA and the pF‐value that could be represented by a linear model for the pF‐range of 1–4.2. The variation in slope and intercept of the CA–pF relationship caused by heterogeneity of the samples taken from a single soil horizon was quantified. In addition, the relation between CA and water content (WC) showed hysteresis, with significantly larger CAs during drying than during wetting.
Geography, assortative mating, and the effects of sexual selection on speciation with gene flow
Authors: Servedio Maria R.
Published: July 2015

Theoretical and empirical research on the evolution of reproductive isolation have both indicated that the effects of sexual selection on speciation with gene flow are quite complex. As part of this special issue on the contributions of women to basic and applied evolutionary biology, I discuss my work on this question in the context of a broader assessment of the patterns of sexual selection that lead to, versus inhibit, the speciation process, as derived from theoretical research. In particular, I focus on how two factors, the geographic context of speciation and the mechanism leading to assortative mating, interact to alter the effect that sexual selection through mate choice has on speciation. I concentrate on two geographic contexts: sympatry and secondary contact between two geographically separated populations that are exchanging migrants and two mechanisms of assortative mating: phenotype matching and separate preferences and traits. I show that both of these factors must be considered for the effects of sexual selection on speciation to be inferred.
Macrolide‐induced hyperthermia in foals: Role of impaired sweat responses
Authors: Stieler A. L. , Sanchez L. C. , Mallicote M. F. , Martabano B. B. , Burrow J. A. , MacKay R. J.
Published: July 2015

Reasons for performing study

The mechanism of hyperthermia, a potentially fatal adverse effect of erythromycin treatment of foals, is unknown.

Objectives

To determine the cause of erythromycin‐associated hyperthermia. It was hypothesised that the normal sweat response of foals is impaired by treatment with erythromycin.

Study design

Blinded, crossover study in 10 healthy pony foals.

Methods

Foals kept in stalls were given either erythromycin (25 mg/kg bwt orally, 3 times daily) or control for 10 days then turned out for a further 10 days. Quantitative intradermal terbutaline sweat tests were performed on Days 1 (baseline), 3, 10 and 20. The effects on terbutaline‐induced sweating of erythromycin, terbutaline concentration and treatment day were analysed by repeated‐measures ANOVA with Bonferroni‐corrected pairwise post hoc comparisons. Peak temperatures were compared by Wilcoxon's signed rank test and proportions by McNemar's related samples test. Significance was set at P<0.05.

Results

There were significant 2‐factor interactions for treatment × terbutaline after baseline, treatment × day at every terbutaline concentration, and day × terbutaline for erythromycin (P<0.001) but not control (P = 0.9) treatment. Sweating was significantly reduced from baseline in erythromycin‐treated foals at all subsequent days. Erythromycin‐treated foals produced less sweat at all time‐points than did control‐treated foals (P<0.05). Peak rectal temperatures of erythromycin‐treated foals were significantly higher (P = 0.02) than those of controls. During the first 3 days outside more erythromycin‐treated than control‐treated foals required treatment for hyperthermia (6 vs. 0; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

We believe drug‐induced anhidrosis is the likely cause of hyperthermia in some foals treated with erythromycin.
Self‐maintenance of neurogenic inflammation contributes to a vicious cycle in skin
Authors: Gouin Olivier , Lebonvallet Nicolas , L'Herondelle Killian , Le Gall‐Ianotto Christelle , Buhé Virginie , Plée‐Gautier Emmanuelle , Carré Jean‐Luc , Lefeuvre Luc , Misery Laurent
Published: July 2015

Cutaneous neurogenic inflammation (CNI) is frequently associated with skin disorders. CNI is not limited to the retrograde signalling of nociceptive sensory nerve endings but can instead be regarded as a multicellular phenomenon. Thus, soluble mediators participating in communication among sensory nerves, skin and immune cells are key components of CNI. These interactions induce the self‐maintenance of CNI, promoting a vicious cycle. Certain G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a prominent role in these cell interactions and contribute to self‐maintenance. Protease‐activated receptors 2 and 4 (PAR‐2 and PAR‐4, respectively) and Mas‐related G protein‐coupled receptors (Mrgprs) are implicated in the synthesis and release of neuropeptides, proteases and soluble mediators from most cutaneous cells. Regulation of the expression and release of these mediators contributes to the vicious cycle of CNI. The authors propose certain hypothetical therapeutic options to interrupt this cycle, which might reduce skin symptoms and improve patient quality of life.