bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathophysiological evaluation of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) by continuous ruminal pH monitoring
Authors: Sato Shigeru
Published: August 2015

Evaluation of the radio‐transmission pH‐measurement system for monitoring the ruminal pH and subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) in cattle is described. This is done in order to reveal the possible application of this system for detection and pathophysiological research of SARA by continuous ruminal pH measurement. The possibility of using this system for assessment of the ruminal pH in SARA cattle, and the presence of negative correlation between the ruminal pH and ruminal temperature in heathy and SARA cattle were determined. In addition, the 16S rRNA gene pyrosequencing analysis showed that the ruminal microbial community was simpler in SARA cattle, and the bacterial numbers in SARA cattle were lower than those in healthy hay‐fed cattle. Concentrate feeding might have reduced the diversity of the ruminal microbial community. Changes in the ruminal microbial community of SARA cattle might be related to the changes in ruminal pH followed by the decrease in the number of some bacteria. Continuous monitoring of the ruminal pH using the radio‐transmission pH‐measurement system would be applied for detection and prevention of SARA in the field and pathophysiological research of SARA, including ruminal zymology and bacteriology, which have been determined previously by sampling of the ruminal fluid and measuring of ruminal pH.
Change of fatty acid composition of the lumbar longissimus during the final stage of fattening in the Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Honda Takeshi , Ishida Takafumi , Kobayashi Ikuo , Oguri Yusuke , Mizuno Yuto , Mannen Hideyuki , Iwaisaki Hiroaki , Kuge Shiro , Saito Kunihiko , Oyama Kenji
Published: August 2015

Consideration of the shortened fattening period seems to be worthwhile for the realization of profitable beef production. In this study, change of fatty acid composition of the lumbar longissimus during the final stage of fattening was investigated in Japanese Black cattle. Each of 110 fattening animals was sampled three times: the initial two samples were taken by biopsy (25.7 months and 27.5 months on average) and the final one was from carcasses (29.9 months on average). Preliminary analysis indicated that removing muscle tissues from the constant body position of the living animals should be essential for sampling. Average monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) at three sampling points were 58.1%, 58.5% and 60.5%, and the differences of the third sampling with the first and second samplings were significant. Both in steers and heifers, MUFA also increased as the fattening stage proceeded, and MUFA of the heifers at all the sampling points were significantly higher than those of the steers. The increasing rate of MUFA rose from 0.21 percentage points (pp)/month at period 1 (from the first sampling to the second sampling) to 0.84 pp/month at period 2 (from the second sampling to the slaughter).
Distribution of radioactive cesium and its seasonal variations in cattle living in the "difficult‐to‐return zone" of the Fukushima nuclear accident
Authors: Sato Itaru , Sasaki Jun , Satoh Hiroshi , Deguchi Yoshitaka , Otani Kumiko , Okada Keiji
Published: August 2015

The amount of radioactive cesium in various tissues of cattle which lived in the highly contaminated area designated as the "difficult‐to‐return zone", was measured in May and December of 2014. The average concentration of radioactive cesium in the skeletal muscles ranged from 3900 to 5500 Bq/kg, and there was no significant difference between May and December. The sirloin (in December), tenderloin and top round (in May and December) showed significantly higher concentrations of cesium than the neck muscle, which is generally used for the radioactivity inspection. The Longus colli muscle, which is also used for the inspection in some institutions, showed the same radioactivity as the neck muscle. Study results indicated that relative cesium concentrations in internal organs were higher in May compared to December. There were high correlations of cesium concentration between the blood and other tissues. However, regression coefficients between the blood and muscles were significantly higher in December than those in May. When radioactivity in the neck or Longus colli muscles between 50 to 100 Bq/kg is detected, the slaughtered cattle should be re‐inspected using another muscle, such as top round or sirloin, to prevent marketing of meat that violates the criteria of the Food Sanitation Act.
Social network aided plagiarism detection
Authors: Zrnec Aljaž , Lavbič Dejan
Published: August 2015

The prevalence of different kinds of electronic devices and the volume of content on the Web have increased the amount of plagiarism, which is considered an unethical act. If we want to be efficient in the detection and prevention of these acts, we have to improve today's methods of discovering plagiarism. The paper presents a research study where a framework for the improved detection of plagiarism is proposed. The framework focuses on the integration of social network information, information from the Web, and an advanced semantically enriched visualization of information about authors and documents that enables the exploration of obtained data by seeking of advanced patterns of plagiarism. To support the proposed framework, a special software tool was also developed. The statistical evaluation confirmed that the employment of social network analysis and advanced visualization techniques led to improvements in the confirmation and investigation stages of the plagiarism detection process, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the plagiarism detection process.
Using repertory grid techniques to measure change following dialectical behaviour therapy with adults with learning disabilities: two case studies
Authors: McNair Louisa , Woodrow Ceri , Hare Dougal
Published: August 2015

Accessible summary

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) can be adapted for individuals with learning disabilities. DBT aims to teach people how to control their feelings, communicate with other people, manage distress and be more self‐aware.

This article presents the case studies of two adults with learning disabilities who completed DBT and shows how their opinions of themselves and others changed.

The results discussed include overall change in construing, changes in self‐esteem and changes in dilemmas they had about themselves before DBT.

Background: Government strategy indicates that individuals with learning disabilities should have access to adapted psychological therapies. Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is recommended for the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD); however, there is little published research regarding whether it can be appropriately adapted for adults with learning disabilities. The research available primarily focuses on measures of behavioural and psychiatric change, with little emphasis on the psychological changes that occur.

Materials and Methods: Two case studies are presented that using repertory grid technique, based on personal construct psychology (PCP). Both individuals completed repertory grids prior to, and following, adapted DBT for adults with learning disabilities within a specialist community psychology service in the United Kingdom.

Results: The case studies show some of the psychological changes that have occurred within adults with learning disabilities who received adapted DBT within a community psychology service. Changes included altered self‐esteem and dilemmas individuals have about themselves.

Conclusion: The contrasting case studies demonstrate the complexity and idiosyncrasy of the experiences of individuals with learning disabilities who receive DBT, and discuss how this information can be integrated into clinical practice.
A RE‐EXAMINATION OF REAL INTEREST PARITY IN CEECs USING ‘OLD’ AND ‘NEW’ SECOND‐GENERATION PANEL UNIT ROOT TESTS
Authors: Albulescu Claudiu Tiberiu , Pépin Dominique , Tiwari Aviral Kumar
Published: August 2015

This study applies ‘old’ and ‘new’ second‐generation panel unit root tests to check the validity of the long‐run real interest rate parity (RIP) hypothesis for ten Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs) with respect to the Euro area and an average of the CEECs’ real interest rates. When the ‘new’ panel unit root tests are carried out relative to the Euro area rate as reference, we confirm the results of previous studies that support the RIP hypothesis, and the results of the ‘old’ tests used as a benchmark. Nevertheless, when the ‘new’ tests are performed using the average of the CEECs’ rate as reference, our results are mitigated, revealing that the hypothesis of CEECs’ interest rates convergence cannot be taken for granted. From a robustness analysis perspective, our findings indicate that the RIP hypothesis for CEECs should be considered with caution, because the RIP hypothesis is sensitive to the retained reference rate for computing the real interest rate differential, and also to the retained countries in the sample.
GROWTH EFFECTS OF INFLATION UNDER THE PRESENCE OF INFORMALITY
Authors: Asfuroglu Dila , Elgin Ceyhun
Published: August 2015

In this paper we build an endogenous growth model in which the informal economy is subject to a cash‐in‐advance constraint along with physical capital accumulation and consumption. In this setting, we find that inflation generally adversely affects long‐run growth. However; this effect strongly interacts with the size of the informal economy. Specifically, the negative effect becomes milder (and can even be positive) under the presence of a large informal economy. Moreover, using an annual cross‐country panel data set of 161 countries over the period 1950‐2010 we also provide some empirical support for the mechanism of our theory.
Chemicals on plant surfaces as a heretofore unrecognized, but ecologically informative, class for investigations into plant defence
Authors: LoPresti Eric F.
Published: August 2015

Plants produce and utilize a great diversity of chemicals for a variety of physiological and ecological purposes. Many of these chemicals defend plants against herbivores, pathogens and competitors. The location of these chemicals varies within the plant, some are located entirely within plant tissues, others exist in the air‐ (or water‐) space around plants, and still others are secreted onto plant surfaces as exudates. I argue herein that the location of a given defensive chemical has profound implications for its ecological function; specifically, I focus on the characteristics of chemical defences secreted onto plant surfaces. Drawing from a broad literature encompassing ecology, evolution, taxonomy and physiology, I found that these external chemical defences (ECDs) are common and widespread in plants and algae; hundreds of examples have been detailed, yet they are not delineated as a separate class from internal chemical defences (ICDs). I propose a novel typology for ECDs and, using existing literature, explore the ecological consequences of the hypothesized unique characteristics of ECDs. The axis of total or proportional investment in ECDs versus ICDs should be considered as one axis of investment by a plant, in the same way as quantitative versus qualitative chemical defences or induced versus constitutive defences is considered. The ease of manipulating ECDs in many plant systems presents a powerful tool to help test plant defence theory (e.g. optimal defence). The framework outlined here integrates various disciplines of botany and ecology and suggests a need for further examinations of exudates in a variety of contexts, as well as recognition of the effects of within‐plant localization of defences.
Managing Radical Innovation as an Innovative Design Process: Generative Constraints and Cumulative Sets of Rules
Authors: Arrighi Pierre‐Antoine , Le Masson Pascal , Weil Benoit
Published: August 2015

This paper focuses on the organization of design processes and the difficulty of simultaneously achieving control and exploration while aiming to achieve radical innovation. After a first generation of works that tended to oppose new product development (NPD) processes (with controlled convergence and very limited exploration) to innovation processes (with poorly controlled convergence and random (uncontrolled) exploration), the new generation of works proposed ways to combine control and convergence either through concept shift or through stable architectures. Relying on a generic analytical framework (design space/value management), it appears that each model makes restrictive hypotheses (respectively smart leadership or stable architecture) to address two critical questions: How can one increase the efficiency of exploration? How can one ensure forms of cumulative convergence? Relying on the same analytical framework, we analyse two cases that explore the unknown in a controlled way and still do not correspond two either of the two models. We show that these two anomalies and the two models actually have two critical features in common: a focus on generative constraint and a logic of cumulative design rules. As a consequence, these two features might lead to several processes where teams have to explore the unknown and still have to keep a rigorous control of exploration and convergence.
Exploration and Exploitation within Firms: The Impact of CEOs' Cognitive Style on Incremental and Radical Innovation Performance
Authors: de Visser Matthias , Faems Dries
Published: August 2015

Previous studies have provided valuable insights into how environmental and organizational factors may influence levels of explorative and exploitative innovation in firms. At the same time, scholars suggest that individual characteristics, such as cognitive and behavioural inclinations of top executives, might also have significant impact on the ability of a firm to engage in explorative and exploitative activities. The importance of the CEO is of interest, especially in medium‐sized companies, where the CEO appears to be most influential. Very few studies, however, have quantitatively examined the relationship between individual characteristics of top managers and firm‐level exploration and exploitation. Most of the existing research focuses on observable managerial characteristics and the composition of top management teams. Therefore, some important psychological issues may have been bypassed. This study complements prior research in two fundamental ways. First, whereas previous studies focus on extrinsic organizational factors that influence individual exploration and exploitation, we rely on insights from cognitive psychology to hypothesize a relationship between intrinsic factors (i.e., cognitive style) and individuals' tendency for exploration versus exploitation. Second, whereas existing research remains silent on the implications of individual CEO characteristics for firm performance, we hypothesize a relationship between CEOs' tendency for exploration or exploitation and firm‐level innovation performance.
Gamification of Creativity: Exploring the Usefulness of Serious Games for Ideation
Authors: Agogué Marine , Levillain Kevin , Hooge Sophie
Published: August 2015

Organizing for idea generation is a recurring challenge in intensive innovation contexts. The literature on ideation has reached a compelling consensus on the features that such organizational devices must possess to support sufficient creativity: learning processes and a creative climate of confidence to promote collaboration. However, current practical methodologies struggle to simultaneously realize these two features. In this paper, we explore the potential ofSeriousGames, a collaborative tool that has been used since the 1960s to facilitate learning processes through the simulation of reality and a role‐playing game, to induce an immersive experience and, more recently, to support the ideation process. To do so, we conducted an exploratory case study using aSeriousGame to support ideation in aFrench medium‐sized business. We then assess the strengths and areas for improvement of thisSeriousGame with respect to an ideation performance framework based on the existing literature. Our findings show thatSeriousGames are efficient tools for supporting existing knowledge exchange between participants and collaboration by providing a creative climate, but they may not sufficiently support learning of the external knowledge required to attain high levels of originality. Accordingly, we discuss some crucial parameters to be further explored to allow for the effective managerial use of such methodologies, such as the fine‐tuning of the knowledge content that serves as a basis for the game.
The Adoption of Electronic Innovations with Indirect Network Externalities that Compete with Standalone Physical Products
Authors: Kawakami Tomoko , Parry Mark E.
Published: August 2015

The authors consider how a change in product form impacts the adoption decision for an innovative product based on digital technology. Examples of changes in product form often arise in products that feature indirect network externalities, such as MP3 players, PDAs and e‐readers. Existing research suggests that, for innovations with indirect network externalities, the consumer's hardware adoption decision is influenced by the availability of complementary products. However, these studies of complementary products tend to focus on products that exist only as complementary products, such as DVDs, CDs, and video games. This research focuses on the case of an innovative hardware product that uses digital complementary products that compete with standalone versions of the same products. The authors argue that high levels of experience with a standalone product that competes with an innovative hardware/software bundle should increase the consumer's appreciation of (1) the utilitarian benefits of the hardware/software bundle and (2) the hedonic benefits of the standalone product, some of which may not be transferable to the electronic hardware. An analysis of data collected from 549 potential adopters of e‐readers in Japan support these hypotheses. The findings have important implications for the design and marketing of digital innovations that involve a change in product form.
Rational Design of Glycomimetic Compounds Targeting the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Transglycosylase Gas2
Authors: Delso Ignacio , Valero‐González Jessika , Marca Eduardo , Tejero Tomás , Hurtado‐Guerrero Ramón , Merino Pedro
Published: August 2015

The transglycosylase Saccharomyces cerevisiae Gas2 (ScGas2) belongs to a large family of enzymes that are key players in yeast cell wall remodeling. Despite its biologic importance, no studies on the synthesis of substrate‐based compounds as potential inhibitors have been reported. We have synthesized a series of docking‐guided glycomimetics that were evaluated by fluorescence spectroscopy and saturation‐transfer difference (STD) NMR experiments, revealing that a minimum of three glucose units linked via a β‐(1,3) linkage are required for achieving molecular recognition at the binding donor site. The binding mode of our compounds is further supported by STD‐NMR experiments using the active site‐mutants Y107Q and Y244Q. Our results are important for both understanding of ScGas2–substrate interactions and setting up the basis for future design of glycomimetics as new antifungal agents.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Fluorinated 3‐Phenylcoumarin‐7‐O‐Sulfamate Derivatives as Steroid Sulfatase Inhibitors
Authors: Demkowicz Sebastian , Daśko Mateusz , Kozak Witold , Krawczyk Katarzyna , Witt Dariusz , Masłyk Maciej , Kubiński Konrad , Rachon Janusz
Published: August 2015

In the present work, we report the initial results of our study on a series of 3‐phenylcoumarin sulfamate‐based compounds containing C‐F bonds as novel inhibitors of steroid sulfatase. The new compounds are potent steroid sulfatase inhibitors, possessing more than 10 times higher inhibitory potency than coumarin‐7‐O‐sulfamate. In the course of our investigation, compounds 2b and 2c demonstrated the highest inhibitory effect on the enzymatic steroid sulfatase assay; both had IC50 values of 0.27 μm (the IC50 value of coumarin‐7‐O‐sulfamate is 3.5 μm, used as a reference).
A 1‐Year Clinical and Radiographic Study on Hydrophilic Dental Implants Placed with and without Bone Augmentation Procedures
Authors: Zumstein Thomas , Sennerby Lars
Published: August 2015

Purpose

The aim of the present 1‐year clinical and radiographic study was to evaluate a hydrophilic dental implant when used in everyday cases in one clinic. The purpose was also to compare augmented with nonaugmented sites.

Materials and Methods

The study group consisted of 50 consecutive patients treated with 159 dental implants (Proactive, Neoss Ltd, Harrogate, UK) in both mandibles and maxillae. Ninety‐two implants were placed with adjunct bone augmentation procedures, whereas 40 implants were placed in augmented maxillary sinus sites. A two‐stage procedure was used for 84 implants and a one‐stage procedure for 47 implants. Twenty‐eight implants were immediately loaded. Implant stability was measured with resonance frequency analysis (RFA) at placement and at prosthesis delivery. The patients were scheduled for checkups after 6 and 12 months in function with clinical and radiographic examinations. Marginal bone level measurements were performed in baseline and follow‐up intraoral radiographs.

Results

Two implant failures in two patients were experienced after 1 year of loading, giving a survival rate of 98.7%. One implant in nonaugmented sites and one implant in conjunction with an augmentation procedure (sinus lift), giving a survival rate of 98.5% and 98.9% for healed and augmented sites, respectively (NS). RFA measurements showed 70.2 ± 9.5 ISQ at placement and 76.5 ± 5.9 ISQ (p ≤ 0.001) after a mean healing time of 5.6 ± 1.6 months. The marginal bone loss amounted to 0.7 ± 0.7 mm after 1 year of loading. Frequency distribution showed bone gain or less than 1 mm bone loss for the majority of implants (69.3%), whereas 25.7% showed 1.1 to 2 mm, 5.0% more than 2 mm and no implants more than 3 mm of bone loss.

Conclusions

The use of Neoss Proactive implants for prosthetic rehabilitation of consecutive patients resulted in predictable clinical and radiographic outcomes after 1 year of loading with no differences between augmented and nonaugmented sites.
Longitudinal response of membrane thickness and ostium patency following sinus floor elevation: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Guo Zheng‐Ze , Liu Yi , Qin Lei , Song Ying‐Liang , Xie Chao , Li De‐Hua
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To investigate the influence of sinus floor elevation (SFE) on sinus physiology, including Schneiderian membrane thickness (MT) and ostium patency, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and methods

Based on pre‐established selection criteria, 53 patients in combination with 53 sinuses were referred for SFE with a lateral approach using deproteinized bone mineral. CBCT was performed prior to, immediately after surgery and before staged implant placement. The Schneiderian MT of the elevated region, ostium patency, and other clinical data was evaluated.

Results

The two‐stage sinus augmentation technique was applied in 33 males and 20 females. Four membrane perforations were observed during the surgical procedure. The Schneiderian membrane exhibited significant swelling immediately after augmentation (P < 0.0001), but this difference disappeared after a mean healing period of 7.51 months. The corresponding changes were also observed for ostium patency with a tendency of transient obstruction after surgery. Sinuses with flat mucosal thickening or pseudocysts did not present a liability of perforation compared to the normal cases, and the augmentation procedure was not likely to deteriorate the pathology of mucosal thickening or pseudocysts.

Conclusions

The results show that SFE with a lateral approach has no significant influence on MT and ostium patency after the healing period except for postoperative transient swelling and obstruction. Thickened membranes and antral pseudocysts in a small size might not be contraindications to SFE from the standpoint of the surgical impact on the Schneiderian membrane.
Exploring women's responses to online media coverage of weight loss surgery
Authors: Champion C. , Glenn N. , Berry T. , Spence J. C.
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to understand the reactions of women to online news articles about weight loss surgery and related reader comments. Focus groups were conducted; open‐ended questions were asked to elicit responses to existing online news media content related to weight loss surgery. The participants described the online articles as predominantly supportive of weight loss surgery and in response they expressed a desire to see more critical content, including different and competing perspectives. Participants felt the online comments represented extreme perspectives and were predominately negative. These were therefore not viewed as helpful or informative. Nevertheless, readers viewed comments as a form of entertainment. Because of the aggressive and anonymous nature of reader comments in response to online news stories, the participants did not feel comfortable leaving comments themselves on the news sites. Findings highlight the importance of gathering readers' perspectives in response to interactive media content and, in particular, health information.
Psychosocial presentation of revisional LAGB patients: a qualitative study
Authors: Janse Van Vuuren M. , Strodl E. , White K. M. , Lockie P.
Published: August 2015

This qualitative study offers insight into the experiences, expectations, perceptions and beliefs that may lead to laparoscopic adjustable gastric band patients' failure to achieve expected weight loss and seek revisional bariatric surgery. The 23 participants from two sites were interviewed and data were analysed from a grounded theory methodology in order to build a causal model. Analysis of participants' reports identified ‘unrealistic expectations of the LAGB’ as the core category. Additionally, the restriction of the band had a negative impact on participants' social interactions, leading to feelings of deprivation and, thus, to a desire for reward from food choices and consequently an increase of consumption of high‐calorie‐dense foods. These foods were chosen because of their specific texture or ability to provide reward. The resulting increase in weight or failure to achieve excess weight loss, led to feelings of shame and loneliness and emotional eating resulting in increased the consumption of rewarding foods. Thus, identifying unrealistic expectations of laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) and emotional eating behaviours are important in those who are present initially for primary bariatric and revisional bariatric surgery, as they may contribute specifically to these patients' weight regain and consequent failure to achieve excess weight loss.
Appendicular lean mass and site‐specific muscle loss in the extremities correlate with dynamic strength
Authors: Thiebaud Robert S. , Loenneke Jeremy P. , Abe Takashi , Fahs Christopher A. , Rossow Lindy M. , Kim Daeyeol , Beck Travis W. , Bemben Debra A. , Larson Rebecca D. , Bemben Michael G.
Published: August 2015

Background

Previous studies have reported the non‐homogenous loss of muscle mass (site‐specific muscle loss) with ageing, but this relationship to the loss of strength is not totally understood.

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between maximal dynamic strength and site‐specific muscle mass of the thigh and upper arm.

Methods

Thirty‐five recreationally active men were separated into young‐aged (YG, 20–39 years, n = 12), middle‐aged (MG, 40–59 years, n = 13) and old‐aged groups (OG, 60–75 years, n = 10). One‐repetition maximum strength (1‐RM; leg press, chest press, knee flexion, lat pull‐down, and knee extension), muscle thickness (MTH, anterior and posterior thigh and upper arm) and appendicular lean mass (aLM) index were obtained from participants. Site‐specific thigh MTH ratio was determined by dividing anterior thigh MTH (50% of thigh length) by posterior thigh MTH (50% of thigh length).

Results

aLM index was not significantly different between age groups, but a significantly smaller site‐specific MTH thigh ratio was found in the OG. Collapsed across age groups both site‐specific thigh MTH ratio and aLM index were significantly correlated with leg press, knee extension and knee flexion1‐RM strength (r = 0·390–0·699), but not with knee extension: knee flexion (KE:KF) 1‐RM strength ratios (r = 0·037–0·081). Separated by age groups only aLM index was correlated with KE:KF 1‐RM ratio for the OG (r = 0·780).

Conclusions

Site‐specific thigh MTH ratio may be an important assessment tool in older individuals as it is different among age groups and is significantly related to dynamic maximal strength. However, maximal dynamic strength ratios appear to be less sensitive to differences in site‐specific MTH ratios.
Longitudinal dose and type of immunosuppression in a national cohort of Australian liver, heart, and lung transplant recipients, 1984–2006
Authors: Na Renhua , Laaksonen Maarit A. , Grulich Andrew E. , Webster Angela C. , Meagher Nicola S. , McCaughan Geoffrey W. , Keogh Anne M. , Vajdic Claire M.
Published: August 2015

Unconfounded comparative data on the type and dose of immunosuppressive agents among solid organ transplant recipients are sparse, as are data on longitudinal immunosuppressive therapy since transplantation. We addressed this issue in a population‐based cohort of Australian liver (n = 1895), heart (n = 1220), and lung (n = 1059) transplant recipients, 1984–2006. Data on immunosuppressive therapy were retrospectively collected at discharge, three months, and one, five, 10, and 15 yr after first transplant. We computed unadjusted and adjusted estimates for the association between the type and dose of immunosuppressive therapy and organ type. After adjustment for confounders, use of induction antibody and maintenance corticosteroids was more common in heart and lung compared to liver recipients (p < 0.001), and antibody therapy for rejection more common in liver recipients (p < 0.001). Liver recipients were more likely to receive calcineurin inhibitor monotherapy, with or without corticosteroids, compared to heart and lung recipients (p < 0.001). Liver recipients consistently received lower doses of azathioprine than heart and lung recipients (p < 0.001). These differences in immunosuppression may partly explain variations in immunosuppression‐related morbidity by transplanted organ, for example, malignancy risk. Longitudinal changes in the type and the dose of immunosuppressive therapy over time since transplantation also demonstrate the need for time‐dependent data in observational research.
Multiple Comorbidities and Interest in Research Participation Among Clients of a Nonprofit Food Distribution Site
Authors: Higashi Robin T. , Craddock Lee Simon J. , Leonard Tammy , Cuate Erica L. , Cole Jay , Pruitt Sandi L.
Published: August 2015

Background

Persons accessing food from nonprofit distribution sites face numerous challenges and typically have significant unmet health needs. However, given limited and intermittent healthcare system engagement, this vulnerable population is underrepresented in clinical research. We sought to better understand the health needs of a nonclinical population to inform future research and interventions.

Methods

: Focus groups were conducted in English (n = 4) and Spanish (n = 4) with clients of Crossroads Community Services (CCS), the largest distributor of North Texas Food Bank. Discussions probed participants’ health status, healthcare utilization, understanding and utilization of mammography, and attitudes toward participation in research.

Results

Participants included 42 CCS clients, primarily Hispanic or African American women. Participants reported multiple comorbid conditions among household members, yet utilization of health services was often limited by cost. The majority expressed interest in participating in research to communicate their health concerns and obtain emotional support.

Conclusion

CCS clients represent a high‐need, under‐reached population willing to engage in health‐related research that affords them opportunity to connect with peers in group settings and obtain information to improve management of daily life challenges. The Community Assistance Research (CARe) Initiative, a community–academic collaboration, establishes a much‐needed opportunity for ongoing clinical research and intervention among this underserved population.
Bimodal emotion congruency is critical to preverbal infants’ abstract rule learning
Authors: Tsui Angeline Sin Mei , Ma Yuen Ki , Ho Anna , Chow Hiu Mei , Tseng Chia‐huei
Published: August 2015

Extracting general rules from specific examples is important, as we must face the same challenge displayed in various formats. Previous studies have found that bimodal presentation of grammar‐like rules (e.g. ABA) enhanced 5‐month‐olds’ capacity to acquire a rule that infants failed to learn when the rule was presented with visual presentation of the shapes alone (circle‐triangle‐circle) or auditory presentation of the syllables (la‐ba‐la) alone. However, the mechanisms and constraints for this bimodal learning facilitation are still unknown. In this study, we used audio‐visual relation congruency between bimodal stimulation to disentangle possible facilitation sources. We exposed 8‐ to 10‐month‐old infants to an AAB sequence consisting of visual faces with affective expressions and/or auditory voices conveying emotions. Our results showed that infants were able to distinguish the learned AAB rule from other novel rules under bimodal stimulation when the affects in audio and visual stimuli were congruently paired (Experiments 1A and 2A). Infants failed to acquire the same rule when audio‐visual stimuli were incongruently matched (Experiment 2B) and when only the visual (Experiment 1B) or the audio (Experiment 1C) stimuli were presented. Our results highlight that bimodal facilitation in infant rule learning is not only dependent on better statistical probability and redundant sensory information, but also the relational congruency of audio‐visual information.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KYTyjH1k9RQ
Efficacy and safety of pioglitazone added to alogliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group, comparative study
Authors: Kaku K. , Katou M. , Igeta M. , Ohira T. , Sano H.
Published: August 2015

A phase IV, multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group, comparative study was conducted in Japanese subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who had inadequate glycaemic control, despite treatment with alogliptin in addition to diet and/or exercise therapy. Subjects with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentrations of 6.9–10.5% were randomized to receive 16 weeks' double‐blind treatment with pioglitazone 15 mg, 30 mg once daily or placebo added to alogliptin 25 mg once daily. The primary endpoint was the change in HbA1c from baseline at the end of treatment period (week 16). Both pioglitazone 15 and 30 mg combination therapy resulted in a significantly greater reduction in HbA1c than alogliptin monotherapy [−0.80 and −0.90% vs 0.00% (the least squares mean using analysis of covariance model); p < 0.0001, respectively]. The overall incidence rates of treatment‐emergent adverse events were similar among the treatment groups. Pioglitazone/alogliptin combination therapy was effective and generally well tolerated in Japanese subjects with T2DM and is considered to be useful in clinical settings.
NEURAPRO‐E study protocol: a multicentre randomized controlled trial of omega‐3 fatty acids and cognitive‐behavioural case management for patients at ultra high risk of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
Authors: Markulev Connie , McGorry Patrick D. , Nelson Barnaby , Yuen Hok Pan , Schaefer Miriam , Yung Alison R. , Thompson Andrew , Berger Gregor , Mossaheb Nilufar , Schlögelhofer Monika , Smesny Stefan , de Haan Lieuwe , Riecher‐Rössler Anita , Nordentoft Merete , Chen Eric Yu Hai , Verma Swapna , Hickie Ian , Amminger G. Paul
Published: August 2015

Aim

Recent research has indicated that preventative intervention is likely to benefit patients ‘at‐risk’ for psychosis, both in terms of symptom reduction and delay or prevention of onset of threshold psychotic disorder. The strong preliminary results for the effectiveness of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), coupled with the falling transition rate in ultra high‐risk (UHR) samples, mean that further study of such benign, potentially neuroprotective interventions is clinically and ethically required. Employing a multicentre approach, enabling a large sample size, this study will provide important information with regard to the use of omega‐3 PUFAs in the UHR group.

Methods

This trial is a 6‐month, double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled trial of 1.4 g day−1 omega‐3 PUFAs in UHR patients aged between 13 and 40 years. The primary hypothesis is that UHR patients receiving omega‐3 PUFAs plus cognitive‐behavioural case management (CBCM) will be less likely to transition to psychosis over a 6‐month period compared to treatment with placebo plus CBCM. Secondary outcomes will examine symptomatic and functional changes, as well as examine if candidate risk factors predict response to omega‐3 PUFA treatment in the UHR group.

Conclusion

This is the protocol of the NeuraproE study. Utilizing a large sample, results from this study will be important in informing indicated prevention strategies for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, which may be the strongest avenue for reducing the burden, stigmatization, disability and economic consequences of these disorders.
Differences in omega‐3 and omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption in people at ultra‐high risk of psychosis, first‐episode schizophrenia, and in healthy controls
Authors: Pawełczyk Tomasz , Trafalska Elżbieta , Pawełczyk Agnieszka , Kotlicka‐Antczak Magdalena
Published: August 2015

Aim

Supplementation with omega‐3 PUFA showed efficacy in reducing the risk of transition into psychosis in UHR individuals. It is uncertain whether dietary patterns can be partly responsible for n‐3 deficiencies observed in susceptible participants before the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

The study was designed to assess differences in omega‐3 and omega‐6 PUFA consumption in healthy controls (HC), UHR participants and FES patients as well as to verify the hypothesis that dietary changes in PUFA consumption are present before active psychosis develops, that is, in UHR individuals.

Methods

Dietary habits during the previous year were assessed in 34 patients at UHR of psychosis, 33 patients diagnosed with FES and 33 HC participants using a validated Food‐Frequency Questionnaire and the Polish Food Composition Tables.

Results

Significant differences in omega‐3 and omega‐6 PUFA intake were observed between study groups. UHR and FES groups reported significantly higher consumption of omega‐6 PUFA in comparison with HC. FES patients also reported a higher consumption of alpha‐linolenic acid (omega‐3) in comparison with HC. No significant differences were seen in consumption of long‐chain marine PUFA.

Conclusions

Differences in omega‐6 and omega‐3 PUFA consumption exist before development of psychotic symptoms, fulfilling the criteria of schizophrenia.
On the relation between self‐reported cognitive fatigue and the posterior hypothalamic−brainstem network
Authors: Hanken K. , Manousi A. , Klein J. , Kastrup A. , Eling P. , Hildebrandt H.
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose

Various causes have been suggested for multiple sclerosis (MS) related fatigue. Hypothalamus‐brainstem fibres play a role in sleep−wake regulation and in hypothalamic deactivation during inflammatory states. Hence, they may play a role for experiencing fatigue by changing bottom‐up hypothalamic activation.

Methods

Multiple sclerosis patients with and without self‐reported cognitive fatigue and healthy controls were analysed with respect to the integrity of hypothalamus−brainstem fibres using diffusion‐tensor imaging based tractography, focusing on the anterior, medial and posterior hypothalamic areas, controlling for clinical impairment and excluding participants with depressive mood.

Results

Multiple sclerosis patients without self‐reported cognitive fatigue showed increased axial and radial diffusivity levels specifically for fibres connecting the right posterior hypothalamus with the right locus coeruleus, but not for the medial hypothalamus and the corpus callosum. Moreover, there were no differences between MS patients with and without fatigue in brain atrophy and lesion load, which could explain our results.

Conclusion

Multiple sclerosis patients not experiencing fatigue show increased axial and radial diffusivity for fibres connecting the posterior hypothalamus and the brainstem, which might prevent bottom‐up activation of the posterior hypothalamus and therefore downregulation of structures responsible for wakefulness and exploratory states of mind.
No Inbreeding Avoidance by Female Burying Beetles Regardless of Whether They Encounter Males Simultaneously or Sequentially
Authors: Mattey Sarah N. , Smiseth Per T.
Published: August 2015

Inbreeding avoidance reduces the probability that an individual will mate with a related partner, thereby lowering the risk that it produces inbred offspring suffering from inbreeding depression. Inbreeding avoidance can occur through several mechanisms, including active mate choice, polyandry and sex‐biased dispersal. Here, we focus on the role of active mate choice as a mechanism for inbreeding avoidance. Recent evidence suggests that the experimental design used in mate choice experiments (i.e. simultaneous versus sequential choice) can have a strong impact on the strength of the reported mating preferences. In this study, we examine whether similar effects of experimental design also apply in the context of inbreeding avoidance. To this end, we designed two experiments on the burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides that matched two different contexts under which females encounter potential mates in the wild; that is, when females encounter males simultaneously and sequentially. We found that females were as likely to mate with related and unrelated males regardless of whether they encountered male partners simultaneously or sequentially. Thus, our study provides no evidence for inbreeding avoidance in this species, and suggests that the number of mates present did not influence the degree of inbreeding avoidance. We discuss potential explanations for the lack of inbreeding avoidance through mate choice, including lack of mechanisms for recognizing close relatives, low costs and/or low risks of inbreeding and the presence of other inbreeding avoidance mechanisms, such as sex‐biased dispersal and polyandry coupled with post‐copulatory mate choice.
Letter to the Editor: Validation of IgG cut‐off values and their association with survival in neonatal foals
Authors: Corley K.T.T. , Dunkel B. , Nolen‐Walston R.
Published: August 2015

See article by Liepman et al.
Validation of IgG cut‐off values and their association with survival in neonatal foals: a response
Authors: Liepman R. S. , Dembek K. A. , Toribio R. E.
Published: August 2015

See also correspondences by Corley et al. and Liepman et al.
Seroprevalence and factors associated with seropositivity to equine arteritis virus in Spanish Purebred horses in Spain
Authors: Cruz F. , Fores P. , Mughini‐Gras L. , Ireland J. , Moreno M. A. , Newton R.
Published: August 2015

Reasons for performing study

Equine viral arteritis (EVA), a disease caused by infection with the equine arteritis virus (EAV), is present in many European countries. In Spain, the last confirmed outbreak was reported in 1992 and there is a paucity of seroprevalence studies. The disease has a major impact on the equine breeding industry, which is mainly represented by Spanish Purebred (SP) horses in Spain.

Objectives

To estimate the seroprevalence ofEAVin the breedingSPhorse population in central Spain and identify potential horse and studfarm level factors associated with seropositivity toEAV.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Individual serum samples from 555SPhorses, collected between September 2011 and November 2013 at 35 studfarms, were tested using a commercially availableEAVantibodyELISAand seroneutralisation as the World Organisation for Animal Health reference confirmation test for samples with positive and equivocal results. Data on factors putatively associated with seropositivity toEAVwere collected via a questionnaire and examined using random effects logistic regression for analysis of clustered data.

Results

Equine arteritis virus seroprevalence in theSPbreeding population in central Spain standardised for the sex distribution of the reference horse population, was estimated to be 16.8% (95% confidence interval 5.2–28.5%). Increasing numbers of breeding mares on the studfarm and increasing percentage of mares with reproductive problems during the last 12 months were identified as being positively associated withEAVseropositivity. Mares vaccinated against Equine herpesvirus‐1 (EHV‐1) and/or ‐4 (EHV‐4) were also positively associated withEAVseropositivity.

Conclusions

These findings are of importance to ensure appropriate biosecurity measures for studfarms are carried out and may help facilitate the development of anEVAsurveillance programme in theSPbreeding horse population.
A new member of MocR/GabR‐type PLP‐binding regulator of d‐alanyl‐d‐alanine ligase in Brevibacillus brevis
Authors: Takenaka Takashi , Ito Tomokazu , Miyahara Ikuko , Hemmi Hisashi , Yoshimura Tohru
Published: August 2015

The Brevibacillus brevis BBR47_28440 gene (referred to as ddlR) encodes an MocR/GabR family transcriptional regulator consisting of an N‐terminal helix‐turn‐helix DNA binding domain and a C‐terminal aminotransferase‐like domain. The ddlR gene is located just upstream of the d‐alanyl‐d‐alanine ligase gene (ddl) in the B. brevis genome, and these two genes form an operon. Gel‐shift assays indicated that purified DdlR binds specifically to the DNA region that includes putative −35 and −10 regions of the ddlR promoter. A 6‐bp inverted repeat that overlaps the −10 region of the ddlR promoter was found to be important for the binding. In vivo reporter assays confirmed that DdlR is an activator of the ddlR‐ddl operon. Spectroscopic analyses indicated that purified DdlR is a pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate binding transcriptional regulator that has dipeptide binding ability for d‐alanyl‐d‐alanine, the enzymatic product of Ddl, and glycylglycine. DdlR is capable of forming a dipeptide‐pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate external aldimine, but it lacks aminotransferase activity. Bioinformatic analyses suggest that DdlR‐mediated transcriptional regulation of ddlR and ddl may occur in multiple bacterial systems such as Actinobacteria and Bacillus species.