bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting effects of summer and winter warming on body mass explain population dynamics in a food‐limited Arctic herbivore
Authors: Albon Steve D. , Irvine R. Justin. , Halvorsen Odd , Langvatn Rolf , Loe Leif E. , Ropstad Erik , Veiberg Vebjørn , van der Wal René , Bjørkvoll Eirin M. , Duff Elizabeth I. , Hansen Brage B. , Lee Aline M. , Tveraa Torkild , Stien Audun
Published: July 2016

The cumulative effects of climate warming on herbivore vital rates and population dynamics are hard to predict, given that the expected effects differ between seasons. In the Arctic, warmer summers enhance plant growth which should lead to heavier and more fertile individuals in the autumn. Conversely, warm spells in winter with rainfall (rain‐on‐snow) can cause ‘icing’, restricting access to forage, resulting in starvation, lower survival and fecundity. As body condition is a ‘barometer’ of energy demands relative to energy intake, we explored the causes and consequences of variation in body mass of wild female Svalbard reindeer (Rangifer tarandus platyrhynchus) from 1994 to 2015, a period of marked climate warming. Late winter (April) body mass explained 88% of the between‐year variation in population growth rate, because it strongly influenced reproductive loss, and hence subsequent fecundity (92%), as well as survival (94%) and recruitment (93%). Autumn (October) body mass affected ovulation rates but did not affect fecundity. April body mass showed no long‐term trend (coefficient of variation, CV = 8.8%) and was higher following warm autumn (October) weather, reflecting delays in winter onset, but most strongly, and negatively, related to ‘rain‐on‐snow’ events. October body mass (CV = 2.5%) increased over the study due to higher plant productivity in the increasingly warm summers. Density‐dependent mass change suggested competition for resources in both winter and summer but was less pronounced in recent years, despite an increasing population size. While continued climate warming is expected to increase the carrying capacity of the high Arctic tundra, it is also likely to cause more frequent icing events. Our analyses suggest that these contrasting effects may cause larger seasonal fluctuations in body mass and vital rates. Overall our findings provide an important ‘missing’ mechanistic link in the current understanding of the population biology of a keystone species in a rapidly warming Arctic.
Evaluating Chinese Economic Engagement in Africa versus Latin America
Authors: Narins Thomas P.
Published: July 2016

Since the early 2000s, when China joined the World Trade Organization and the Chinese government announced an official ‘going out policy’ to encourage economic engagement beyond China's territorial borders, growth of Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade with both Africa and Latin America has risen exponentially. Reasons for this rise include (1) Chinese economic actors' view that expansion within these former European colonial regions is critical for accessing primary resources and new markets and (2) leadership in Beijing's view that its legitimacy continues to be based on economic growth. Given China's recent bleak economic forecast and plunging stock market, an increase in Chinese overseas economic engagement in Africa and Latin America warrants a closer examination of the ‘Chinese model’ of economic expansion in the developing world and implies that the Chinese economy may be more dependent on connections with these regions than has been previously suggested. By distinguishing the political economic forces at play, on the ground, in Africa from those in Latin America, Chinese economic engagement tactics in these regions can be more accurately understood as a set of dependent and negotiated processes that are location specific.
Effect of a dual task on quantitative Timed Up and Go performance in community‐dwelling older adults: A preliminary study
Authors: Smith Erin , Walsh Lorcan , Doyle Julie , Greene Barry , Blake Catherine
Published: July 2016

Aim

The Timed Up and Go test (TUG) is used as a measure of functional ability in older adults; however, the method of measurement does not allow us to determine which aspects of the test deficits occur in. The aim of the present study was to examine the ability of the quantitative TUG (QTUG) to measure performance during the TUG test under three different conditions – single task, motor task and cognitive dual task – and to compare performance between fallers and non‐fallers in high‐functioning community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

A total of 37 community‐dwelling older adults, 16 with a self‐reported falls history in the previous year, were recruited. Participants underwent a falls risk assessment with a physiotherapist including the QTUG under three conditions (single task, motor task, cognitive dual‐task). A total of 10 clinical parameters were chosen for analysis using mancova and a series of ancova, with age, sex and body mass index included as covariates.

Results

The mancova analysis showed a significant difference across the three task conditions (Wilk's Lambda F20,186 = 3.37, P < 0.001. No overall significant difference between faller and non‐faller groups (Wilk's Lambda F10,96 = 1.469, P = 0.163) or significant interaction between task and faller status (Wilk's Lambda F20,192 = 1.131, P = 0.321) was found. ancova results for each of the parameters showed overall differences between single, motor and cognitive tasks for all of the variables, except time in double support. When faller and non‐faller differences were explored, cadence and stride velocity was greater, and stride time longer in those with a prior history of falls.

Conclusions

In community‐dwelling older adults, these preliminary results show that a cognitive dual‐task significantly (P < 0.025) affects QTUG performance in almost all parameters, with a significant (P < 0.025) reduction in time‐to‐stand observed with a motor task. Although no statistical difference was found between fallers and non‐fallers for many of the parameters, cadence, stride time and stride velocity were statistically different (P < 0.05). A larger sample size and more assessment points might lead to more definitive findings. These results highlight the need for further research to examine QTUG performance under dual‐task conditions between fallers and non‐fallers in this population, and to look at the ability of dual‐task QTUG assessment to measure change longitudinally and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1176–1182.
Standardization of haematology critical results management in adults: an International Council for Standardization in Haematology, ICSH, survey and recommendations
Authors: Keng T. B. , De La Salle B. , Bourner G. , Merino A. , Han J‐Y. , Kawai Y. , Peng M. T. , McCafferty R. ,   the International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH)
Published: July 2016

Introduction

These recommendations are intended to develop a consensus in the previously published papers as to which parameters and what values should be considered critical. A practical guide on the standardization of critical results management in haematology laboratories would be beneficial as part of good laboratory and clinical practice and for use by laboratory‐accrediting agencies.

Methods

A working group with members from Europe, America, Australasia and Asia was formed by International Council for Standardization in Haematology. A pattern of practice survey of 21 questions was distributed in 2014, and the data were collected electronically by Survey Monkey. The mode, or most commonly occurring value, was selected as the threshold for the upper and lower alert limits for critical results reporting.

Results

A total of 666 laboratories submitted data to this study and, of these, 499 submitted complete responses. Full blood count critical results alert thresholds, morphology findings that trigger critical result notification, critical results alert list, notification process and maintenance of critical results management protocol are described.

This international survey provided a snapshot of the current practice worldwide and has identified the existence of considerable heterogeneity of critical results management.

Conclusion

The recommendations in this study represent a consensus of good laboratory practice. They are intended to encourage the implementation of a standardized critical results management protocol in the laboratory.
Current and emerging approaches for assessing von Willebrand disease in 2016
Authors: Federici A. B.
Published: July 2016

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder and is due to a deficiency and/or abnormality of von Willebrand factor (VWF). VWD is inherited in an autosomal dominant or recessive pattern, but women are apparently more symptomatic. Diagnosis of VWD is still difficult in most countries due to the multiple activities of VWF and the heterogeneity of the disease. VWD is mainly associated with mild mucosal bleeding although gastrointestinal and joint bleeds may occur in severe VWD forms. This review describes the most recent clinical and laboratory procedures for the correct diagnosis of VWD. Assays for the evaluation of the platelet‐dependent VWF activity (PD‐VWFact) with or without ristocetin as well as VWF collagen binding (VWF:CB) are currently in use. However, other tests such as VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), factor VIII procoagulant (FVIII:C), ristocetin‐induced platelet agglutination (RIPA), multimeric analysis (VWF:MA), VWF propeptide (VWFpp), VWF:FVIII binding assay (VWF:FVIIIB), and the assessment of biological response to desmopressin (DDAVP) are necessary to characterize VWD types. Levels of VWF activities <30 U/dL have been associated with a bleeding phenotype and the presence of mutations in the VWF gene.
Examining Organic and Mechanistic Structures: Do We Know as Much as We Thought?
Authors: Kessler Stacey R. , Nixon Ashley E. , Nord Walter R.
Published: July 2016

Burns and Stalker's theory of organic/mechanistic structures (1961, The Management of Innovation. London: Tavistock) has been widely used. However, review of the empirical literature revealed inconsistencies in how the concepts have been operationalized. These inconsistencies may interfere with the ability to consolidate knowledge. This paper reviews the various ways in which researchers have operationalized the concepts, and summarizes the empirical findings derived from these operationalizations. In doing so, it highlights gaps and opportunities for future empirical and methodological work, suggesting the need to further our theoretical conceptualization of the concepts and to draw attention to Burns and Stalker's () largely neglected corollary of the employee experience. As such, this review provides a road map for future exploration of the wide‐ranging implications associated with organic and mechanistic structures.
The ecology and adaptive evolution of influenza A interspecies transmission
Authors: Joseph Udayan , Su Yvonne C. F. , Vijaykrishna Dhanasekaran , Smith Gavin J. D.
Published: July 2016

Since 2013, there have been several alarming influenza‐related events; the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 viruses into North America, the detection of H10N8 and H5N6 zoonotic infections, the ongoing H7N9 infections in China and the continued zoonosis of H5N1 viruses in parts of Asia and the Middle East. The risk of a new influenza pandemic increases with the repeated interspecies transmission events that facilitate reassortment between animal influenza strains; thus, it is of utmost importance to understand the factors involved that promote or become a barrier to cross‐species transmission of Influenza A viruses (IAVs). Here, we provide an overview of the ecology and evolutionary adaptations of IAVs, with a focus on a review of the molecular factors that enable interspecies transmission of the various virus gene segments.
Efficacy and safety of triamcinolone acetonide alone and in combination with 5‐fluorouracil for treating hypertrophic scars and keloids: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ren YiMing , Zhou XianHu , Wei ZhiJian , Lin Wei , Fan BaoYou , Feng ShiQing
Published: July 2016

Pathological scars, such as keloids and hypertrophic scars, readily cause physical and psychological problems. Combination 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) with triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) is presumed to enhance the treatment of pathological scars, although supportive evidence is lacking. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of TAC alone and in combination with 5‐FU for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. Five databases (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane databases, Embase and CNKI) were searched with the limitations of human subjects and English‐language text. Mean differences (MDs), odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias Tool was used to assess the risk of bias. The control group received intralesional TAC alone, and the experimental group received TAC combined with 5‐FU injection. A pooled analysis of the effectiveness based on patient self‐assessment after treatment showed that the experimental group achieved better results than the control group (OR = 2·92, 95% CI = 1·63–5·22, P = 0·0003). Similarly, a pooled analysis of the effectiveness based on observer assessment following treatment produced the same conclusion (OR = 4·03, 95% CI = 1·40–11·61, P = 0·010). A meta‐analysis of scar height after treatment showed that the experimental group performed better than the control group (MD = −0·14, 95% CI = −0·23–0·05, P = 0·002). The erythema score of the experimental group after treatment was superior (MD = −0·20, 95% CI = −0·34–0·06, P = 0·004). The heterogeneity test showed no heterogeneity among the studies (P > 0·1, I2 = 0%). TAC combined with 5‐FU is more suitable for the treatment and prevention of hypertrophic scars and keloids, with greater improvement in scar height and patient satisfaction as well as fewer side effects.
How to think about immigration: Control, protection, discretion and democracy
Authors: Miller David
Published: July 2016

David Miller argues that some level of intake of economic immigrants, and some kind of selection between them, is inevitable, and so the choice between closed borders and free movement is a false one. Instead what matters is that the selection criteria are informed by a democratic debate and stand up to public scrutiny.
Utopia today: Citizenship, self‐interest and society
Authors: Paul Joanne
Published: July 2016

Historian Joanne Paul looks back to the work of Thomas More, and asks whether his conceptions of citizenship and private property cast a light on the roots of our modern crises, from inequality to climate change. She argues that More can help us to challenge assumptions that have stood since the Enlightenment.
Preparation and Structure of New Oxyfluoride Glass‐Ceramics Containing BaLiF3 Nanocrystal
Authors: Lin Changgui , Li Legang , Bocker Christian , Rüssel Christian
Published: July 2016

Through a careful composition design, new oxyfluoride glass‐ceramics (GCs) containing BaLiF3 nanocrystals with sizes of around 30 nm were prepared. Microstructural characterizations show interpenetrating phase separation in the sample with a composition of 15BaF2–15ZnF2–70SiO2, after thermal treatment at 580°C for 40 h which leads to the nanocrystallization of BaLiF3. The BaLiF3 nanocrystals embedded in the glassy matrix could provide Ba or Li sites for the incorporation of optically active rare earth and transition‐metal ions, which provides a possibility to explore novel photonic properties by the codoping of rare earth and transition‐metal ions in GC materials.
Selective Corrosion Preparation and Sintering of Disperse α‐Al2O3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Guo Ruiyun , Cao Wenbin , Mao Xuan , Li Jiangong
Published: July 2016

Disperse fine equiaxed α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles with a mean particle size of 9 nm and a narrow size distribution of 2–27 nm were synthesized using α‐Fe2O3 as seeds and isolation via homogeneous precipitation‐calcination‐selective corrosion processing. The presence of α‐Fe2O3 acting as seeds and isolation phase can reduce the formation temperature to 700°C and prevent agglomeration and growth of α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles, resulting in disperse fine equiaxed α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles. These α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles were pressed into green compacts at 500 MPa and sintered first by normal sintering to study their sintering behavior and finally by two‐step sintering (heated to 1175°C without hold and decreased to 1025°C with a 20 h hold in air) to obtain nanocrystalline α‐Al2O3 ceramics. The two‐step sintered bodies are nanocrystalline α‐Al2O3 with an average grain size of 55 nm and a relative density of 99.6%. The almost fully dense nanocrystalline α‐Al2O3 ceramic with finest grains achieved so far by pressureless sintering reveals that these α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles have an excellent sintering activity.
Precursor Preparation to Promote the Adsorption of Mg‐Al Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Wang Bentao , Qu Jun , Li Xuewei , He Xiaoman , Zhang Qiwu
Published: July 2016

This study presents an interesting phenomenon of the simultaneous occurrence of adsorption and synthesis of Mg–Al layered double hydroxide (Mg–Al–LDH) by stirring a precursor in an aqueous solution with methyl orange (MO) as target adsorbate with the precursor prepared by first milling Mg(OH)2 for 1 h followed by another 3 h milling with Al(OH)3.The prepared precursor and LDH samples were characterized by a set of analytical methods including X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry (TG–DSC), and Fourier‐transform infrared (FT–IR). The maximum adsorption capacity (Qm) of MO by the prepared precursor sample was 1110.2 mg/g, much higher than that from the synthesized LDH sample. Engineering application may be expected from the easy preparation of such precursor as adsorbent to purify the tremendous amounts of dye wastewater.
Effect of a universal anxiety prevention programme (FRIENDS) on children's academic performance: results from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Skryabina Elena , Taylor Gordon , Stallard Paul
Published: July 2016

Background

Evaluations of school‐based anxiety prevention programmes have reported improvements in psychological functioning although little is known about their effect upon educational outcomes.

Methods

One thousand three hundred and sixty‐two children from 40 primary schools in England took part in the randomised controlled trial, Preventing Anxiety in Children through Education in Schools. The trial investigated the effectiveness of a universal school‐based cognitive behaviour therapy prevention programme, FRIENDS, delivered by health care staff or school staff compared with usual personal, social, health and education (PSHE) lessons. Self‐report psychological outcomes and educational attainment on national standardised attainment tests in reading, writing and maths were collected 12 months postintervention. Analysis was performed at individual level using multivariable mixed effect models controlling for gender, type of intervention and school effect. Registered trial: ISRCTN: 23563048.

Results

At 12 months, anxiety reduced in the health‐led FRIENDS group compared to school‐led FRIENDS and PSHE. There were no between‐group differences in academic performance regardless of gender, deprivation, ethnicity and additional educational needs.

Conclusions

School‐based mental health interventions should assess psychological and educational outcomes. Further research should directly compare the effects of interventions led by health and school staff.
The Effect of Evidence‐Based Scripted Midwifery Counseling on Women's Choices About Mode of Birth After a Previous Cesarean
Authors: Chinkam Somphit , Ewan Jean , Koeniger‐Donohue Rebecca , Hawkins Joellen W. , Shorten Allison
Published: July 2016

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate how a scripted counseling intervention affected the experience of decision making and actual choice for trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) or elective repeat cesarean birth (ERCB) in a cohort of women receiving care from nurse‐midwives.

Methods

A pilot study of scripted counseling for women who had a previous cesarean about TOLAC versus ERCB was conducted at Boston Medical Center. Candidates for a TOLAC, receiving prenatal care from nurse‐midwives in 2012 and 2013, were enrolled before 28 weeks’ gestation. The women received 4 scripted counseling sessions during the routine prenatal visit, evidence‐based information pamphlets, and an opportunity to review the hospital TOLAC consent form. Pre and post questionnaires were completed regarding birth preference, information sources, and decision factors. A midpoint assessment of the participants’ knowledge of risks and benefits of TOLAC versus ERCB was conducted, and satisfaction with the intervention and outcome were assessed after the birth.

Results

Twenty‐two women participated in the study, and 20 completed all study questionnaires. More of the participants believed they had enough information after the intervention (95% after intervention vs 70% before the intervention). Reasons for choosing ERCB included being afraid of vaginal birth complications, having prior positive experience with cesarean, and convenience of knowing when the neonate will be born. Reasons for choosing a TOLAC included the personal importance of having a vaginal birth and that recovery is faster and easier. Few women cited concerns for their own safety and that of their newborns when choosing TOLAC.

Discussion

Women were satisfied with the scripted counseling and found it useful in helping them make a birth mode decision. While the scripted counseling did not appear to influence preferred mode of birth, it appeared to help women follow through with the mode of birth they chose prenatally.
Role of GABAAR trafficking in the plasticity of inhibitory synapses
Authors: Mele Miranda , Leal Graciano , Duarte Carlos B.
Published: July 2016

Neuronal excitability depends on the balance between inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission, which in the CNS are mainly mediated by GABA and glutamate respectively. The plasticity of glutamatergic synapses and the underlying molecular mechanisms have been characterized to a large extent. In comparison, much less is known regarding the plasticity of GABAergic synapses, which is also important in the maintenance of the excitatory/inhibitory balance. GABAergic synapses, similarly to the glutamatergic synapses, adjust their strength depending on the pattern of neuronal activity. These alterations take place in the pre‐ and postsynaptic compartments, and short‐ and long‐term alterations have been described. At the postsynaptic level the plasticity of inhibitory synapses is largely mediated by modulation of the expression, localization and function of GABAA receptors, by mechanisms involving the participation of scaffold proteins and structural molecules. This review is focused on the key mechanisms that regulate GABAA receptor trafficking in response to alterations in neuronal activity or to stimulation of plasma membrane receptors. These alterations in GABAergic neurotransmission are important in the refinement of the pattern of activity of neuronal networks.

image

In this work, we review some of the mechanisms contributing to the plasticity of inhibitory synapses in the CNS, focusing on the regulation of GABAA receptor (GABAAR) trafficking in response to alterations in neuronal activity or to stimulation of different classes of plasma membrane‐associated receptors. Alterations in these mechanisms are important in the refinement of neuronal network activity.

This article is part of a mini review series: “Synaptic Function and Dysfunction in Brain Diseases”.
Hospital Distance and Readmissions Among VA‐Medicare Dual‐Enrolled Veterans
Authors: Wong Edwin S. , Rinne Seppo T. , Hebert Paul L. , Cook Meredith A. , Liu Chuan‐Fen
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Geographic access to inpatient care at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System is challenging for many veterans with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) given relatively few VA hospitals nationwide. Veterans with lengthy travel distances may obtain non‐VA care, particularly those dually enrolled in Medicare. Our primary objective was to assess whether distance from VA patients’ residence to the nearest VA and non‐VA hospitals was associated with 30‐day all‐cause readmission and the system where patients were readmitted (VA or Medicare).

Methods

Using VA and Medicare administrative data, we identified 21,273 patients hospitalized for COPD between October 2008 and September 2011 and dually enrolled in VA and fee‐for‐service Medicare. Outcome variables were dichotomous measures denoting readmission for any cause within 30 days following discharge and whether the readmission occurred in a non‐VA hospital through Medicare. Distance to the nearest hospital was defined as the number of miles between patients’ residence ZIP code and the ZIP code of the nearest VA and non‐VA hospital accepting Medicare, respectively. Probit models with sample selection were applied to examine the relationship between hospital distance and outcome measures.

Findings

Respective distances to the nearest VA and non‐VA hospital were not associated with 30‐day all‐cause readmission. Greater distance to the nearest VA hospital was associated with a greater conditional probability of choosing non‐VA hospitals for readmission.

Conclusions

COPD patients with poor geographic access to VA hospitals did not forgo subsequent inpatient care following their index hospitalization, but they were more likely to seek non‐VA substitutes.
Delay discounting and response disinhibition moderate associations between actigraphically measured sleep parameters and body mass index
Authors: Chan Wai Sze
Published: July 2016

Previous research suggests that the sleep–obesity association varies significantly across individuals. This study examined the associations between actigraphically measured sleep parameters and body mass index and hypothesized that the associations would be stronger in individuals with greater delay discounting, the devaluation of future rewards and response disinhibition and the difficulty in withholding previously rewarded responses. Seventy‐eight college students carried a wrist‐worn actigraph and completed diaries reporting bedtime, wake time and covariates including physical activity, alcohol and caffeine consumption, daytime nap duration and perceived stress for 7 days and completed the delay discounting and go/no‐go response disinhibition tasks. Their height and weight were measured. Only bedtime variability was significantly associated with body mass index in the main effect model controlling for all covariates (B = 0.03, P = 0.001). Delay discounting moderated associations of bedtime (B = 0.03, P < 0.001), sleep duration variability (B = 0.05, P = 0.002), bedtime variability (B = 0.03, P = 0.002) and wake time variability (B = 0.02, P < 0.001) with body mass index; these associations were significant only when the delay discounting rate was high. Response disinhibition moderated the association between bedtime variability and body mass index in a similar pattern (B = 0.01, P = 0.004). The findings suggest that, using actigraphy measures of sleep, circadian desynchrony rather than sleep duration is a risk factor for higher body mass index. The findings support the hypothesis that delay discounting and response disinhibition moderate the associations between sleep and body mass index. Delay discounting and response disinhibition might characterize individuals who are vulnerable to the influence of circadian desynchrony on weight.
Female Labor Participation in the Arab World: Evidence from Panel Data in Morocco
Authors: Verme Paolo , Barry Abdoul Gadiry , Guennouni Jamal
Published: July 2016

Female Participation Rates (FPRs) in the Arab world are low compared with the level of economic development of Arab countries. Beyond anecdotal evidence and cross‐country studies, there is very little evidence on what could explain this phenomenon. This paper models FPRs in Morocco using the richest set of panel data available for any Arab country to date. It finds marriage, secondary education, and GDP per capita to lower FPRs. These findings are robust to different estimators, endogeneity tests, specifications of the FPR equations, and sources of data. The explanation seems to reside in the nature of economic growth and gender norms. Economic growth has not generated jobs for women with secondary education and this factor reinforces the institution of marriage as a permanent alternative to work.
Treatment of HCV genotype 2 with sofosbuvir and ribavirin results in lower sustained virological response rates in real life than expected from clinical trials
Authors: Tacke Frank , Günther Rainer , Buggisch Peter , Klinker Hartwig , Schober Andreas , John Christine , Lutz Thomas , Pfeiffer‐Vornkahl Heike , Niederau Claus , Cornberg Markus , Sarrazin Christoph , Mauss Stefan
Published: July 2016

Background and Aims

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections with genotype 2 (GT2) are generally considered as easy to treat. The current standard therapy is 12 weeks of sofosbuvir and ribavirin. However, sustained virological response (SVR) rates varied substantially in distinct subgroups. Therefore, re‐assessing the efficacy of interferon‐free therapy in cohorts with larger patient numbers is warranted.

Methods

The German Hepatitis C registry is a national multicenter cohort. Patients are treated at the discretion of the physician. Data are collected by a web‐based data system and confirmed by plausibility checks and on‐site monitoring.

Results

A total of 265 (4.3%) of 6034 patients enrolled in the registry were infected with GT2, and 236 had initiated treatment (60% males, 98% Caucasian, median age 54 years). Treatment with sofosbuvir and ribavirin for 12 weeks achieved SVR at week 12 post‐treatment (SVR12) in 136/164 (83%) patients. SVR12 rates for this regimen were 80% (35/44) in treatment‐experienced patients, 74% (20/27) in cirrhotics and 75% (21/28) in patients with HCV‐RNA ≥6 million IU/mL. The overall SVR rate in patients treated with sofosbuvir/ribavirin 12 weeks per protocol (PP), excluding therapy discontinuation or lost to follow‐up, was 135/151 (89%). PP SVR12 rates were 91% for treatment naïve, 83% for cirrhotic and 80% for treatment‐experienced patients respectively.

Conclusions

In this large GT2 cohort, sofosbuvir and ribavirin for 12 weeks achieved lower SVR rates compared to treatment outcomes expected from phase 3 trials. These findings highlight the need for establishing alternative treatment strategies for GT2 patients, especially in patients with unfavourable outcome factors.
Effects of environmental factors on seasonal and spatial changes in surface zooplankton in Golden Horn Estuary (Istanbul, Turkey)
Authors: Dorak Zeynep , Albay Meriç
Published: July 2016

The abundance and spatial distribution of zooplankton at monthly intervals were studied in polluted Golden Horn Estuary (Istanbul, Turkey), from July 2006 to December 2007. Selected water quality parameters also were measured. The zooplankton community was characterized by the presence of freshwater, estuarine and marine species, with a total of 59 taxa. Rotifers were the most important fraction of the total zooplankton, comprising 36.52% of all the samples. The zooplankton exhibited seasonal patterns, with the highest abundance occurring in the summer (979 ind. L−1) and the lowest in the spring (856 ind. L−1). Rotifera was the most abundant group in the upper and middle estuary, whereas Copepoda usually reaches the maximum densities in the higher salinity waters in the lower estuary. The study results indicated that both the sampling time (seasons) and sampling sites jointly had significant effects on the zooplankton densities (manova P < 0.05), and horizontal patterns were related to electrical conductivity, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, suspended particulate matter, pH and chlorophyll a measured in the estuary.
Competitive Exchange Rate and Public Infrastructure in a Macrodynamic of Economic Growth
Authors: Neto Antonio Soares Martins , Lima Gilberto Tadeu
Published: July 2016

We develop a dual open‐economy model which incorporates a flow of public infrastructure as a factor of production to investigate effects of a competitive exchange rate policy under different levels of provision of public infrastructure. It is suggested that an exchange rate policy coordinated with a public infrastructure policy should produce better results. By increasing productivity in the tradable sector and reducing inflationary pressures, this supply‐side public policy contributes to the success of an economic growth strategy led by a competitive currency.
Intertwining nutrient‐sensory networks and the control of antibiotic production inStreptomyces
Authors: Urem Mia , Świątek‐Połatyńska Magdalena A. , Rigali Sébastien , van Wezel Gilles P.
Published: July 2016

Actinobacteria are producers of a plethora of natural products of agricultural, biotechnological and clinical importance. In an era where mankind has to deal with rapidly spreading antimicrobial resistance, streptomycetes are of particular importance as producers of half of all antibiotics used in the clinic. Genome sequencing efforts revealed that their capacity as antibiotic producers has been underestimated, in particular as many biosynthetic pathways are silent under standard laboratory conditions. Here we review the global regulatory networks that control antibiotic production in streptomycetes, with emphasis on carbon‐ and aminosugar‐related nutrient sensory pathways. Recent research has revealed intriguing connections between these regulons, and overlap and antagonism between the activities of among others the global regulatory proteins AtrA, DasR and Rok7B7 as well as GlnR (nitrogen control) and PhoP (phosphate control), are discussed. Finally, we provide ideas as to how these novel insights might help us to find ways to activate the transcription of silent biosynthetic gene clusters.
Invasion of hepatocytes by Plasmodium sporozoites requires cGMP‐dependent protein kinase and calcium dependent protein kinase 4
Authors: Govindasamy K. , Jebiwott S. , Jaijyan D. K. , Davidow A. , Ojo K. K. , Van Voorhis W. C. , Brochet M. , Billker O. , Bhanot P.
Published: July 2016

Invasion of hepatocytes by sporozoites is essential for Plasmodium to initiate infection of the mammalian host. The parasite's subsequent intracellular differentiation in the liver is the first developmental step of its mammalian cycle. Despite their biological significance, surprisingly little is known of the signalling pathways required for sporozoite invasion. We report that sporozoite invasion of hepatocytes requires signalling through two second‐messengers – cGMP mediated by the parasite's cGMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKG), and Ca2+, mediated by the parasite's calcium‐dependent protein kinase 4 (CDPK4). Sporozoites expressing a mutated form of Plasmodium berghei PKG or carrying a deletion of the CDPK4 gene are defective in invasion of hepatocytes. Using specific and potent inhibitors of Plasmodium PKG and CDPK4, we demonstrate that PKG and CDPK4 are required for sporozoite motility, and that PKG regulates the secretion of TRAP, an adhesin that is essential for motility. Chemical inhibition of PKG decreases parasite egress from hepatocytes by inhibiting either the formation or release of merosomes. In contrast, genetic inhibition of CDPK4 does not significantly decrease the number of merosomes. By revealing the requirement for PKG and CDPK4 in Plasmodium sporozoite invasion, our work enables a better understanding of kinase pathways that act in different Plasmodium stages.
Development of the Japanese version of the Woman Abuse Screening Tool‐Short
Authors: Kita Sachiko , Haruna Megumi , Hikita Naoko , Matsuzaki Masayo , Kamibeppu Kiyoko
Published: July 2016

This study develops a Japanese version of the Woman Abuse Screening Tool, comprising two simple questions, to examine its accuracy and validity. A cohort study involving women in the third trimester of pregnancy and one month after childbirth was conducted in an antenatal clinic in a Tokyo suburb. The Japanese versions of the Index of Spouse Abuse and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were used to examine the cut‐off point, accuracy, and validity of the Woman Abuse Screening Tool. Results showed that the tool demonstrated good accuracy (sensitivity 66.7–71.4%, specificity 89.7%), using an alternative cut‐off point (i.e. responses of “some tension” or “some difficulty” [2 points] for one item and “a lot of tension” or “great difficulty” [1 point] for the other), and good concurrent, convergent, and predictive validity. The results indicated that the Woman Abuse Screening Tool could be useful in Japanese perinatal health settings, as an initial screening tool to detect intimate partner violence efficiently and effectively during pregnancy.
Cough reflex attenuation and swallowing dysfunction in sub‐acute post‐stroke patients: prevalence, risk factors, and clinical outcome
Authors: Vilardell N. , Rofes L. , Nascimento W. V. , Muriana D. , Palomeras E. , Clavé P.
Published: July 2016

Background

Cough and swallowing impairments in post‐stroke patients (PSP) have been associated with increased risk for respiratory complications.

Aims

To assess the prevalence of alterations in protective cough responses in subacute PSP and its association with oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD), clinical, and neurotopographic stroke factors and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Three months after stroke, the cough reflex test (CRT) was performed by nebulizing incremental citric acid concentrations (7.8–1000 mmol L−1) to determine the concentration that elicited two and five coughs; OD was assessed by the volume‐viscosity swallow test. Clinical and neurotopographic stroke risk factors and complications (readmissions, respiratory infections, institutionalization, and mortality) were recorded from 3 to 12 months post‐stroke.

Results

We included 225 PSP. Prevalence of impaired CRT was 5.8%, that of OD was 40.4% (20.4% with impaired safety of swallow), and of both impairments was, 1.8%. No specific risk factors associated with impaired CRT were found; however, hemorrhagic, wide circulation infarction (TACI), and brainstem strokes delayed the cough response. OD was associated with age, TACI and poor functional and nutritional status. Outcome of PSPs was unaffected by impaired CRT but OD and impaired safety of swallow increased institutionalization, respiratory infections, and mortality with the poorest outcome for those with both impairments.

Conclusions

Prevalence of subacute post‐stroke OD and swallow safety impairments was much higher than CRT attenuation, and risk factors strongly differed suggesting that the swallow response receives a stronger cortical control than the cough reflex. OD has a greater impact on PSP clinical outcome than impaired cough, the poorest prognosis being for patients with both airway protective dysfunctions.
Influence of unhealthy food and beverage marketing on children's dietary intake and preference: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Sadeghirad B. , Duhaney T. , Motaghipisheh S. , Campbell N. R. C. , Johnston B. C.
Published: July 2016

Marketing of foods and beverages high in fat, sugar and salt are suggested to contribute to poor dietary behaviours in children and diet‐related diseases later in life. This systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized trials aimed to assess the effects of unhealthy food and beverage marketing on dietary intake (grams or kilocalories) and dietary preference (preference score or percentage of participants who selected specific foods/beverages) among children 2 to 18 years of age.

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO up to January 2015 for terms related to advertising, unhealthy foods or beverages among children. Randomized trials that assessed the effects of unhealthy food and beverage marketing compared with non‐dietary advertisement or no advertisement in children were considered eligible. Two authors independently extracted information on study characteristics and outcomes of interest and assessed risk of bias and the overall quality of evidence using grade methodology. Meta‐analysis was conducted separately for dietary intake and preference using a random‐effects model.

We identified 29 eligible studies, of which 17 studies were included for meta‐analysis of dietary preference and nine for meta‐analysis of dietary intake. Almost half of the studies were at high risk of bias. Our meta‐analysis showed that in children exposed to unhealthy dietary marketing, dietary intake significantly increased (mean difference [MD] = 30.4 kcal, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.9 to 57.9, and MD = 4.8 g, 95%CI 0.8 to 8.8) during or shortly after exposure to advertisements. Similarly, children exposed to the unhealthy dietary marketing had a higher risk of selecting the advertised foods or beverages (relative risk = 1.1, 95%CI 1.0 to 1.2; P = 0.052). The evidence indicates that unhealthy food and beverage marketing increases dietary intake (moderate quality evidence) and preference (moderate to low quality evidence) for energy‐dense, low‐nutrition food and beverage. Unhealthy food and beverage marketing increased dietary intake and influenced dietary preference in children during or shortly after exposure to advertisements. © 2016 World Obesity
N/P imbalance as a key driver for the invasion of oligotrophic dune systems by a woody legume
Authors: Ulm Florian , Hellmann Christine , Cruz Cristina , Máguas Cristina
Published: July 2016

Oligotrophic ecosystems, previously considered to be more resilient to invasive plants, are now recognised to be highly vulnerable to invasions. In these systems, woody legumes show belowground ecosystem engineering characteristics that enable invasion, however, the underlying processes are not well understood. Using a Portuguese primary dune ecosystem as an oligotrophic model system, belowground biomass pools, turnover rates and stoichiometry of a native (Stauracanthus spectabilis) and an invasive legume (Acacia longifolia) were compared and related to changes in the foliage of the surrounding native (Corema album) vegetation.

We hypothesized that the invasive legume requires less phosphorus per unit of biomass produced and exhibits an enhanced nutrient turnover compared to the native vegetation, which could drive invasion by inducing a systemic N/P imbalance.

Compared with the native legumes, A. longifolia plants had larger canopies, higher SOM levels and lower tissue P concentrations. These attributes were strongly related to legume influence as measured by increased foliar N content and less depleted δ15N signatures in the surrounding C. album vegetation. Furthermore, higher root N concentration and increased nutrient turnover in the rhizosphere of the invader were associated with depleted foliar P in C. album.

Our results emphasize that while A. longifolia itself maintains an efficient phosphorus use in biomass production, at the same time it exerts a strong impact on the N/P balance of the native system. Moreover, this study highlights the engineering of a belowground structure of roots and rhizosphere as a crucial driver for invasion, due to its central role in nutrient turnover. These findings provide new evidence that, under nutrient‐limited conditions, considering co‐limitation and nutrient cycling in oligotrophic systems is essential to understand the engineering character of invasive woody legumes.
The Effects of Ultraviolet Eye Irradiation on Dextran Sodium Sulfate‐Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Hiramoto Keiichi , Yamate Yurika , Sato Eisuke F.
Published: July 2016

Ultraviolet (UV) eye irradiation denatures the cells of the intestine. This study examined the action of UVA and UVB on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)‐induced ulcerative colitis. We produced a mouse model of ulcerative colitis by administering DSS for 5 days and irradiated the eye with UVB or UVA for each day of the DSS treatment period. DSS‐induced ulcerative colitis was deteriorated by the UVB eye irradiation. Conversely, the symptoms improved with UVA eye irradiation. The levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), urocortin 2, interleukin (IL)‐18, IL‐6 and histamine in the blood increased after the UVB eye irradiation of DSS‐treated mice (UVB/DSS‐treated mice). In contrast, the β‐endorphin level in the blood of the UVA/DSS‐treated mice increased and the levels of urocortin 2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and histamine decreased. Furthermore, in the colon, the expression of melanocortin‐2 receptors (MC2R) increased in the UVB/DSS‐treated mice, while the expression of μ‐opioid receptors increased in the UVA/DSS‐treated mice. When an ACTH inhibitor was administered, UVB eye irradiation caused the deterioration of DSS‐treated ulcerative colitis, while the effect of UV eye irradiation disappeared with a μ‐opioid receptor antagonist. These results suggested that UV eye irradiation plays an important role in DSS‐induced ulcerative colitis.
Effects of root medium pH on root water transport and apoplastic pH in red‐osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera) seedlings
Authors: Zhang W. , Zwiazek J. J.
Published: July 2016

Soil pH is a major factor affecting plant growth. Plant responses to pH conditions widely vary between different species of plants. However, the exact mechanisms of high pH tolerance of plants are largely unknown. In the present study, we compared the pH responses of paper birch (Betula papyrifera) seedlings, a relatively sensitive species to high soil pH, with red‐osier dogwood (Cornus sericea), reported to be relatively tolerant of high pH conditions. We examined the hypotheses that tolerance of plants to high root zone pH is linked to effective control of root apoplastic pH to facilitate nutrient and water transport processes

In the study, we exposed paper birch and red‐osier dogwood seedlings for six weeks to pH 5, 7 and 9 under controlled‐environment conditions in hydroponic culture. Then, we measured biomass, gas exchange, root hydraulic conductivity, ferric chelate reductase (FCR) activity, xylem sap pH and the relative abundance of major elements in leaf protoplasts and apoplasts.

The study sheds new light on the rarely studied high pH tolerance mechanisms in plants. We found that compared with paper birch, red‐osier dogwood showed greater growth, higher gas exchange, and maintained higher root hydraulic conductivity as well as lower xylem sap pH under high pH conditions.

The results suggest that the relatively high pH tolerance of dogwood is associated with greater water uptake ability and maintenance of low apoplastic pH. These traits may have a significant impact on the uptake of Fe and Mn by leaf cells.