bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land cover influences on juvenile Rainbow Trout diet composition and condition in Lake Michigan tributaries
Authors: Brumm Kyle J. , Jonas Jory L. , Prichard Carson G. , Watson Nicole M. , Pangle Kevin L.
Published: June 2018

Watershed development may alter tributaries in ways that influence the growth and development of juvenile fish. For Rainbow TroutOncorhynchus mykiss, the extent of land cover influence on the diet composition of stream‐residing juveniles is still an open but important question, particularly given their broad global distribution. Our study evaluated the effect of land cover on diet composition and condition metrics of juvenile Rainbow Trout in Lake Michigan tributaries. Juveniles were collected in the fall of 2014 and 2015 from 18 sampling locations across the Lake Michigan basin and included a wide variety of land cover types. Multivariate statistical procedures were used to quantitatively score sites along axes that maximized variation in land cover and diet composition. Subsequently, Spearman's rank correlations were used to test for significance of correlations between (a) land cover and diet composition, (b) land cover and fish condition, and (c) diet composition and fish condition. Our results indicated that land cover had an influence on the diet compositions of juvenile Rainbow Trout, but neither land cover nor diet composition had a significant influence on Rainbow Trout condition. These findings contrast with previously published work focusing on the growth responses of other fish species and provide insight into the plastic nature of Rainbow Trout. Further, we discuss potential ways in which fish may mitigate the effect of land cover changes as they are transmitted through stream food webs; however, the magnitude of the mitigation likely varies among fish species.
FENS‐Kavli winter symposium: Addressing the cellular phase of dementia—visions of the UK Dementia Research Institute
Authors: Hesse Raphael , Henstridge Christopher M.
Published: June 2018

This is a short report summarising the plenary talk by Professor Bart de Strooper, at the 2017 FENS‐Kavli winter symposium. We have tried to capture some of the key points in his lecture on dementia research and we discuss his vision for the new UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI). In his talk, Prof. de Strooper encourages us to focus on the multicellular influence on brain dysfunction in dementia and we summarise how the UK DRI is a timely and ambitious, collaborative endevour, aiming to conquer dementia.
Ontogenetic approach reveals how cognitive capability and motivation shape prey‐searching behavior in Pholcus phalangioides cellar spiders
Authors: Kilmer Joseph T. , Havens Zachary S. , Rodríguez Rafael L.
Published: June 2018

An important part of understanding the evolution of behavior is understanding how and why behavior develops and changes throughout ontogeny. Patterns of behavior are shaped by an animal's capabilities as well as its motivations, both of which are subject to selection. We ran an experiment to see how spiders' efforts to recover lost prey change with age and to determine the relative contributions of shifts in capability and motivation. We found that as spiders mature, they spend less time searching to recover lost prey, and they discriminate less between prey of different sizes. We also found that even the youngest, least experienced spiders are cognitively equipped to search for lost prey. Thus, predatory behavior in spiders fluctuated primarily with each age group's motivations to capture and consume prey, and did not seem to be hindered by behavioral or cognitive limitations at young ages.
The profitability effect: Insights from international equity markets
Authors: Chen Te‐Feng , Sun Lei , Wei K. C. John , Xie Feixue
Published: June 2018

Using data from 33 international markets over the period 1990–2017, we reveal that the profitability effect exists in many countries other than the USA, but the size of this effect is sensitive to the measure of profitability and portfolio sorts. The profitability effect is significant in pooled developed and global markets, though less so in emerging markets. The evidence lends support to incorporating a profitability factor in regional/global factor models. Cross‐region and cross‐country analyses show mixed evidence for a positive relationship between profitability effects and market developments, though the overall findings lean toward supporting the prediction of the investment model.
CXCL13 produced by macrophages due to Fli1 deficiency may contribute to the development of tissue fibrosis, vasculopathy and immune activation in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Taniguchi Takashi , Miyagawa Takuya , Toyama Satoshi , Yamashita Takashi , Nakamura Kouki , Saigusa Ryosuke , Ichimura Yohei , Takahashi Takehiro , Toyama Tetsuo , Yoshizaki Ayumi , Sato Shinichi , Asano Yoshihide
Published: June 2018

CXCL13, a chemokine for B cells, follicular T cells, T helper 17 cells, and regulatory T cells, is reported to contribute to the development of systemic sclerosis (SSc), reflecting aberrant activation of immune system. To better understand the role of CXCL13 in SSc, we investigated the influence of Fli1 deficiency, a potential predisposing factor of this disease, on CXCL13 expression and assessed the clinical correlation of serum CXCL13 levels by multivariate regression analysis. Haploinsufficient loss of Fli1 remarkably induced CXCL13 expression in murine peritoneal macrophages, while gene silencing of FLI1 did not affect the expression of CXCL13 in human dermal fibroblasts and human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. Serum CXCL13 levels were elevated in SSc patients compared with healthy controls and correlated positively with skin score and negatively with pulmonary function test results. SSc patients with elevated serum CXCL13 levels had longer disease duration, diffuse cutaneous involvement, interstitial lung disease (ILD), heart involvement, pulmonary arterial hypertension, Raynaud's phenomenon, pitting scars, digital ulcers, telangiectasia, and high serum IgG levels more frequently than the other patients. In particular, serum CXCL13 levels were associated with ILD and digital ulcers by multivariate regression analysis. Taken together, these results indicate that CXCL13 expression is upregulated by Fli1 deficiency in macrophages, potentially contributing to the development of tissue fibrosis, vasculopathy and immune activation in SSc, especially ILD and digital ulcers.
Family Nursing Therapeutic Conversations: Family Reorganization Processes After Diagnosis
Authors: Voltelen Barbara , Konradsen Hanne , Østergaard Birte
Published: June 2018

Objective

To explore and explain the readjustment processes of families living with a family member suffering from heart failure 1 year after having attended a heart failure clinic where family nursing therapeutic conversations were conducted.

Background

Living with heart failure is challenging for both the patient and the family due to role shifts and drastic lifestyle changes. Long‐term support for the entire family is needed from health care professionals. Evidence for suitable family interventions is scarce.

Method

Joint interviews with 15 families in which a member suffered from heart failure were conducted. Theoretical sampling guided the inclusion of families, and a grounded theory approach was used to analyze data.

Results

The core category to emerge was reorganizing family life, which included the process of balancing competing needs on an individual level and as a family. The needs in question involved maintaining personal integrity and maintaining family bonds in the context of health care and daily living.

Conclusions

The process of reorganizing family life seemed to stabilize during the first year. Exploring family illness narratives and family perception of needs and goals guided by health care professionals seem to support families' well‐being and adjustment processes.

Implications

Knowledge from this study could improve collaboration between families and health care professionals and support the communication within families living with heart failure.
Contemporary and emerging fisheries in The Bahamas—Conservation and management challenges, achievements and future directions
Authors: Sherman Krista D. , Shultz Aaron D. , Dahlgren Craig P. , Thomas Claire , Brooks Edward , Brooks Annabelle , Brumbaugh Daniel R. , Gittens Lester , Murchie Karen J.
Published: June 2018

The harvest of marine resources has long‐standing cultural and economic importance to The Bahamas and other small island developing states. Tourists and residents place a demand on local marine resources, particularly Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus (Latreille), queen conch, Lobatus gigas (Linnaeus) and Nassau grouper, Epinephelus striatus (Bloch), and many fishery products are also sold on the global market. Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing coupled with inadequate regulations and enforcement are the main factors contributing to the decline of Bahamian fisheries along with other anthropogenic impacts. This article reviews the status of fisheries management in The Bahamas using economically and ecologically important species as case studies to highlight conservation successes, knowledge gaps and deficiencies in existing management approaches. The review concludes with an examination of how emerging fisheries and improved conservation management strategies have the potential to improve economic and food security throughout the archipelago.
Risk factors for falls in terms of attention during gait in community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Inoue Tadatoshi , Kamijo Kenji , Haraguchi Kenzo , Suzuki Akihiro , Noto Misako , Yamashita Yuh , Nakamura Takashi
Published: June 2018

Aim

We examined factors related to conditions of life function and falls, including eye movements and gait variability, in community‐dwelling older adults in Japan.

Methods

Participants were 82 older adults (21 men, 61 women, mean age 76.1 years). We measured eye movements and gait variability during walking, and cognitive, attentional and life function. We compared two groups according to their fall history, and used a multiple logistic regression analysis to determine its relevance.

Results

Fixation time, which was estimated from eye movements during obstacle crossing, and gait variability (vertical) were significantly associated with falls. There was also a significant correlation between fixation time and gait variability during obstacle crossing. In other words, the higher the gait variability in older adults, the higher the risk of falls, which was due to reduced attention estimated from eye movements during obstacle crossing that required obstacle avoidance.

Conclusions

These results show that poor attention during gait is a critical risk factor for falls in community‐dwelling older adults. For fall prevention, it is necessary to promote exercises for attention, and to maintain an older adult‐friendly pedestrian environment. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1267–1271.
The making of a White nation: The disappearance of the Black population in Argentina
Authors: Edwards Erika Denise
Published: June 2018

While visiting what is considered the most European and White country in Latin America, I often asked Argentines, “What happened to the Black population?” The most common response I heard on the streets of Argentina “there are no Blacks, they disappeared.” But how can a population “disappear” and what exactly does that constitute for a country that prides itself in being European. Scholars have grappled with the meaning of disappearance and the consequences of the myth of Black disappearance since the 1960s. This essay traces their observations and conclusions, which have put the color back into Argentina's whitened past.
Heterogeneity of tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes in breast cancer and its prognostic significance
Authors: Althobiti Maryam , Aleskandarany Mohammed A , Joseph Chitra , Toss Michael , Mongan Nigel , Diez‐Rodriguez Maria , Nolan Christopher C , Ashankyty Ibraheem , Ellis Ian O , Green Andrew R , Rakha Emad A
Published: June 2018

Background and aims

Tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer (BC) provide prognostic and predictive information. The aim of this study was to assess the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of TILs in BC and its relationship with immune cell subtypes.

Methods and results

Immunohistochemically defined immune cell subtypes, i.e. those expressing T‐cell markers (CD3, CD8, and FOXP3), a B‐cell marker (CD20) and a histiocytic marker (CD68), were evaluated in a large series (n = 1165) of invasive BCs. A subset of full‐face haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)‐stained slides were examined for TILs heterogeneity within primary tumours and the corresponding local recurrent carcinomas to investigate spatial and temporal TILs heterogeneity. H&E‐stained sections from multiple tumour blocks (three or four blocks per case) representing different tumour areas were evaluated to assess TILs interslide heterogeneity and intraslide heterogeneity. Both average stromal TILs (AV‐TILs) and hotspot stromal TILs (HS‐TILs) were assessed. AV‐TILs showed associations with all immune cell subtypes; however, CD3+ cells constituted the main component (mean number of CD3+ was 55), whereas CD20+ cells constituted the smallest component (mean number of CD20 was 13). There was no significant statistical difference between TILs across tumour blocks of the same case (P = 0.251 for AV‐TILs and P = 0.162 for HS‐TILs). Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) showed higher TILs percentage than other BC subtypes (P < 0.001). High AV‐TILs, CD3+ cells, CD8+ cells and CD20+ cells were associated with longer survival in TNBC patients (P < 0.05). High AV‐TILs in recurrent tumours showed a significant association with shorter post‐recurrence survival (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Despite the heterogeneity of immune cell type components, average TILs in one full‐face H&E‐stained section reliably represent TILs in the whole tumour. TILs were associated with outcome in TNBC patients, as well as having prognostic significance for recurrent tumours.
Comparative assessment of phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activities in selected five varieties of wampee (Clausena lansium) fruits
Authors: Chang Xiaoxiao , Ye Yutong , Pan Jianping , Lin Zhixiong , Qiu Jishui , Guo Xinbo , Lu Yusheng
Published: June 2018

Wampee (Clausena lansium) fruit is a good resource for food ingredient because of abundant bioactive compounds. This study investigated phenolics, flavonoids, phytochemical composition and antioxidant activities of five different varieties of wampee fruit. Phytochemical composition was analysed by HPLC, and the antioxidant activities of wampee fruits were detected by ORAC, DPPH, FRAP and PSC assays. Results showed that the variety of ‘YangShanDuHe (YSDH)’ contained the highest contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, and the highest value of three phytochemical compounds: vanillic acid, ferulic acid and rutin. The sweet wampee variety ‘CongChengTianHuangPi (CCTHP)’ showed the lowest values of total phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activities. According to the rank of five different varieties by the values of total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activities, YSDH was characterised having the highest antioxidant potential, while the least one was CCTHP. These results may provide health guidance for wampee processing and consuming.
Central Sensitization: A Brief Overview
Authors: Gatchel Robert J. , Neblett Randy
Published: June 2018

This article introduces a SPECIAL ISSUE of the Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research on Central Sensitization (CS). First, a general overview of CS is provided, including some historical perspective, the prevalence of CS in various chronic pain disorders, and common ways of measuring CS and related symptoms. Then a brief summary of each contributing article to this SPECIAL ISSUE is provided. Article topics include: CS‐related neurobiology; diagnostic phenotyping; a biopsychosocial perspective of CS‐related disorders; use of the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI); evaluation of CS and related symptoms in some specific disorders (including general chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and breast cancer survivors); and how the concept of CS has changed our current view of chronic pain.
“I don't want to take any risks even if it's gonna mean this service‐user is gonna be happier”: A thematic analysis of community support staff perspectives on delivering Transforming Care
Authors: Clifford Adam , Standen PJ , Jones Jo
Published: June 2018

Background

Transforming Care is making mixed progress in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and complex needs, move to more appropriate specialist accommodations closer to home. Community support staff often spend greatest amounts of time with service‐users, yet are some of the least heard voices about why placements succeed and fail to varying extents.

Method

Managers and support staff (n = 13), working in ostensibly “specialist” community placements, were interviewed about perceived barriers and facilitators to implementing Transforming Care. Transcripts were subjected to thematic analysis.

Results

Participants identified difficulties balancing people's rights, safety and quality of life needs, and felt the system's expectations of them are hard to deliver within the resources, legislation, values and support models provided them. Multidisciplinary expertise was highly valued for both emotional and practical support, but was least valued when perceived as overly blaming or inspectorial. Specialist health input was seen to withdraw prematurely for this particular client group.

Conclusion

Recommendations are provided for how staff perspectives should inform Transforming Care in interests of service‐users.
Psychological status and coping styles of caregivers of individuals with intellectual disability and psychiatric illness
Authors: Panicker Anuja S. , Ramesh Sonali
Published: June 2018

Background

The psychological status of caregivers of individuals with intellectual disability and psychiatric illness (PI) is important for effective management. The aim of this study was to examine the psychological status and its relationship with coping styles among these caregivers.

Materials & Methods

Caregivers (N = 80) of individuals with intellectual disability (n = 40) and PI (n = 40) were administered a socio‐demographic questionnaire, depression, anxiety and stress scale and COPE Inventory.

Results

Caregivers experienced depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. These symptoms were found to be significantly higher among caregivers of individuals with intellectual disability than those with PI. The most common coping style used was religious coping. Use of positive reinterpretation and growth was associated with lower levels of depression and stress symptoms.

Conclusion

Caregivers’ mental health plays an important role in the quality of care delivery and outcome. Use of appropriate coping styles can reduce the impact of these symptoms.
How best to support individuals with IDD as they become frail: Development of a consensus statement
Authors: Ouellette‐Kuntz Hélène , Martin Lynn , Burke Eilish , McCallion Philip , McCarron Mary , McGlinchey Eimear , Sandberg Magnus , Schoufour Josje , Shooshtari Shahin , Temple Bev
Published: June 2018

Background

While higher rates and earlier onset of frailty have been reported among adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), research on how best to support these individuals is lacking.

Method

An international consultation relied on three consensus building methods: the Nominal Group Technique, an NIH consensus conference approach, and a Delphi survey.

Results

There is agreement that person‐centered planning and aging in place should be guiding principles. Frailty must be considered earlier than in the general population with the recognition that improvement and maintenance are viable goals. Intersectoral collaboration is needed to coordinate assessments and actions. Safety and planning for the future are important planning considerations, as are the needs of caregivers. Ongoing research is needed.

Conclusion

The statement offers guidance to respond to frailty among adults with IDD and fosters ongoing exchange internationally on best practice. As new evidence emerges, the statement should be revisited and revised.
Beliefs about intellectual disability among employees at a state facility and undergraduate students: An exploratory analysis
Authors: James Jessica S.
Published: June 2018

Background

Individuals with intellectual disability are subject to stigmatization, even among those providing services to them.

Method

Employees from an intermediate care facility (n = 97) and undergraduate students (n = 92) completed measures on their attitudes, beliefs of etiological causes and endorsement of helpful treatments and supports.

Results

Overall, participants reported few stigmatizing attitudes and high levels of support for interventions. Differences between employees and students emerged in regard to attitudes and causal beliefs, with employees reporting more support for sheltering and less endorsement of biomedical causes. Among students, those that reported knowing someone with intellectual disability reported less agreement with causal factors as well as differences in what supports were thought to be necessary or beneficial.

Conclusions

Attitudes and beliefs are interrelated and while familiarity impacts these views, it does not necessarily lead to greater understanding or endorsement of treatments or supports. The effects of familiarity on attitudes and beliefs should continue to be explored.
Mixed‐methods study of reported clinical cases of undesirable events, medical errors, and near misses in health care
Authors: Dimova Rositsa , Stoyanova Rumyana , Doykov Ilian
Published: June 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Patient safety is recognized as a key indicator of quality of medical care. International experience has shown that all efforts should focus on the delivery of a safer work environment and health care system as a whole in order to reduce or mitigate medical errors and their impact on society. The aim of this study is to investigate and classify the most common incidents regarding patient safety as well as their contributory factors, based on personal real‐life experiences and situations in medical care reported by health care professionals.

Methods

A mixed‐methods study design was used. Sixty‐five respondents participated (aged from 23 to 58 y). Reported cases of undesirable events (UE), medical errors (ME), and near misses (NM) were collected, processed, and analysed based on our original conceptual framework. A qualitative content analysis and descriptive statistics were conducted on the narratives in all 34 reported valid case files. Intercoder reliability was measured through the kappa statistics (κ = .69). The overall agreement of judgments on all codes was excellent (95%).

Results

A total of 29 MEs in 34 cases were reported. In 85% of them, an average of 1.83 contributory factors were identified. The most common contributory factors were “Incompetence,” “Neglect,” “Severe work overload,” and “Shortage of staff.”

Discussion

Important steps to prevent medical errors are their identification and reporting.

Conclusion

Health care professionals appear able to report UEs, MEs, and NMs occurring in medical care practice. They seem more willing to report and distinguish incidents related to MEs than to UEs and NMs.
Lean non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients had comparable total caloric, carbohydrate, protein, fat, iron, sleep duration and overtime work as obese non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients
Authors: Li Chunlong , Guo Panpan , Okekunle Akinkunmi Paul , Ji Xiaoning , Huang Min , Qi Jiayue , Jiang Yongshuai , Feng Rennan , Li Rui
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifactorial disease that involves a complex interaction between genetics, diet, and lifestyle. Although closely related with obese subjects, it is also common in lean humans. This study aimed to characterize the diet and lifestyle of lean and obese NAFLD patients in China.

Methods

To characterize the diet and lifestyle of lean and obese NAFLD patients, we conducted a matched case–control study that included 351 Chinese adults. General characteristics, dietary intake, and lifestyle were gathered by using a valid and reliable dietary questionnaire. We compared the dietary intake and lifestyle between lean and obese NAFLD patients.

Results

All NAFLD patients had more total caloric, calorigenic nutrients (carbohydrate, fat, and protein), grain, potato, fruit, and iron with higher levels of waist circumference and overtime work but shorter sleep duration than their corresponding controls. Particularly, lean NAFLD patients consumed comparable total caloric, calorigenic nutrients, iron, sleep duration, and overtime work as obese NAFLD patients, though they consumed lower levels of grain, potato, and fruit (lean NAFLD patients vs. obese NAFLD patients: mean ± SD, g/day grain: 291.8 ± 83.8, 365.2 ± 89.0; potato: 63.5 ± 33.1, 80.4 ± 37.6; fruit: 324.3 ± 148.4, 414.0 ± 220.4; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients had higher total caloric, calorigenic nutrients, grain, potato, fruit, iron, and overtime work but shorter sleep duration. Lean NAFLD patients had comparable total caloric, calorigenic nutrients, iron, sleep duration, and overtime work as obese NAFLD patients. These features could be used to the nutritional education and therapeutic guidance for lean NAFLD patients in the future.
Skin structure in newborn marsupials with focus on cutaneous gas exchange
Authors: Ferner Kirsten
Published: June 2018

A morphological and morphometric study of the skin of a variety of newborn marsupials (Dasyurus viverrinus, Monodelphis domestica, Trichosurus vulpecula, Isoodon obesulus, Perameles nasuta, Phascolarctos cinereus, Potorous tridactylus, Petrogale penicillata, Thylogale thetidi, Macropus dorsalis) and of a monotreme hatchling (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) was undertaken to assess the possibility of cutaneous gas exchange. Additionally, the lungs of some of these species were investigated to assess its structural degree at birth. The skin in the different newborn marsupials and the monotreme hatchling had a similar structure (no hair follicles and no sebaceous or perspiratory glands) and was in all cases less developed than the skin of altricial eutherians. The thickness of the entire skin (36–186 μm) and its different layers, epidermis (6–29 μm) and dermis (29–171 μm) varied among the marsupial species and reflected the differences in size and developmental degree of the neonates. In the skin of all marsupial neonates and the monotreme hatchling, numerous superficial cutaneous capillaries were encountered, some closely associated with the epidermis, indicating the possibility that the skin participated in gaseous exchange. The skin of the newborn D. viverrinus had the highest capillary volume density and shortest skin diffusion barrier of all marsupial neonates, suggesting that skin gas exchange in the dasyurid neonate might be the most pronounced. A graduation of the skin capillary density among the marsupial neonates inversely followed the respective lung structure and general developmental degree of the neonates.
Nudge‐nudge, WNK‐WNK (kinases), say no more?
Authors: Cao‐Pham Anh H. , Urano Daisuke , Ross‐Elliott Timothy J. , Jones Alan M.
Published: June 2018

Contents

Summary
35

I
Overview of animal and plant WNK kinases
35

II.
Structure: domains and topology
36

III.
Phylogeny–evolutionary relationships
41

IV.
Plant WNK kinase distribution and regulation of WNK expression and activity
41

V.
Functions of WNK family members in physiology and development
41

VI.
Say no more? Still many questions to be answered
45

Acknowledgements
46

References
46

WITH NO LYSINE (WNK) kinases are serine/threonine kinases uniquely characterized by an anomalous placement of a catalytic lysine, hence their moniker. In animals, WNK protein kinases play critical roles in protein trafficking of components that mediate renal ion transport processes and regulate osmoregulation of cell volume. In plants, the WNK kinase gene family is larger and more diverse. Recent studies revealed WNK kinase roles in orchestrating the trafficking of an ion channel, a lipid kinase complex in animals, and a heterotrimeric G protein signaling component in plants that is necessary for signal transduction. For this reason, new attention is geared toward investigating the mechanisms adopted by WNK kinases to nudge intracellular proteins to their destinations. In this review, the functions of WNK kinases in protein trafficking are derived from what we have learned from the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. To place this new idea in context, we provide the predicted WNK kinase structures, their predicted expression patterns, a speculated evolutionary pathway, and the regulatory roles of plant WNKs in transport processes and other physiologies. We brazenly predict that the WNK kinases in both plants and animals will soon be recognized as a nexus for trafficking‐based signal transduction.
Socioeconomic influences on brain function: implications for health
Authors: Muscatell Keely A.
Published: June 2018

Socioeconomic‐based disparities in physical health outcomes are well established, with individuals from lower socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds being more likely to experience chronic disease morbidity and early mortality compared to those from higher SES strata. While numerous studies in recent decades have focused on understanding the contextual, psychosocial, and biological mechanisms linking SES and health, the neural pathways that contribute to this relationship are currently underinvestigated. The present paper reviews and synthesizes the small number of published studies that have explored links between SES and health‐relevant neural functioning. Specifically, current knowledge of the relationship between socioeconomic factors and neural systems that may be affected by low SES contexts, including those related to processing threat and stress, responding to reward, and engaging in emotion regulation, is reviewed. Gaps in our knowledge that could be filled by health neuroscience research are emphasized, in an effort to catalyze future studies in this area. Understanding the neural mechanisms linking SES and health is crucial for building comprehensive models of the pathways by which social inequalities become health inequalities and may help identify novel targets for intervention to prevent health disparities. Health neuroscience research has a critical role to play in this important area of research.
Amelogenesis imperfecta: A novel FAM83H mutation and characteristics of periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Nowwarote Nunthawan , Theerapanon Thanakorn , Osathanon Thanaphum , Pavasant Prasit , Porntaveetus Thantrira , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: June 2018

Objective

To delineate orodental features, dental mineral density, genetic aetiology and cellular characteristics associated with amelogenesis imperfecta (AI).

Materials and Methods

Three affected patients in a family were recruited. Whole‐exome sequencing was used to identify mutations confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The proband's teeth were subjected for mineral density analysis by microcomputerised tomography and characterisation of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs).

Results

The patients presented yellow‐brown, pitted and irregular enamel. A novel nonsense mutation, c.1261G>T, p.E421*, in exon 5 of the FAM83H was identified. The mineral density of the enamel was significantly decreased in the proband. The patient's PDLCs (FAM83H cells) exhibited reduced ability of cell proliferation and colony‐forming unit compared with controls. The formation of stress fibres was remarkably present. Upon cultured in osteogenic induction medium, FAM83H cells, at day 7 compared to day 3, had a significant reduction of BSP, COL1 and OCN mRNA expression and no significant change in RUNX2. The upregulation of ALP mRNA levels and mineral deposition were comparable between FAM83H and control cells.

Conclusions

We identified the novel mutation in FAM83H associated with autosomal dominant hypocalcified AI. The FAM83H cells showed reduced cell proliferation and expression of osteogenic markers, suggesting altered PDLCs in FAM83H‐associated AI.
Salivary fetuin‐A, S100A12, and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels in periodontal diseases
Authors: Ersin Kalkan Reyhan , Öngöz Dede Figen , Gökmenoğlu Ceren , Kara Cankat
Published: June 2018

Aim

Hs‐CRP, fetuin‐A, and S100A12 are acute‐phase proteins associated with many systemic diseases and conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical parameters and salivary Hs‐CRP, fetuin‐A, and S100A12 levels before and after nonsurgical periodontal treatments in the patients with periodontal diseases.

Materials and Methods

A total of 54 subjects were divided into three groups of 18 patients each: periodontally healthy, gingivitis, and chronic periodontitis. Clinical periodontal parameters; salivary Hs‐CRP, fetuin‐A, and S100A12 levels; and salivary flow rates were evaluated at baseline and a month after the treatments.

Results

Fetuin‐A and S100A12 were significantly lower and Hs‐CRP levels were significantly higher in the chronic periodontitis and gingivitis groups than in the control group at baseline (p < 0.01). For the gingivitis and chronic periodontitis groups, the posttreatment levels of salivary fetuin‐A and S100A12 were higher than the baseline levels of the same (p < 0.01). There was a negative correlation between Hs‐CRP and fetuin‐A and Hs‐CRP and S100A12 (p < 0.001) and a positive correlation between fetuin‐A and S100A12 (p < 0.05) at baseline.

Conclusions

Salivary fetuin‐A and S100A12 levels decreased with increasing severity of periodontal disease. These results suggest that salivary fetuin‐A may play an important role as a negative acute‐phase protein in periodontal diseases.
Awareness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation among parents of 3‐year‐old children
Authors: Uehara Ritei , Shinohara Ryoji , Akiyama Yuka , Ichikawa Kaori , Ojima Toshiyuki , Matsuura Kencho , Yamazaki Yoshihisa , Yamagata Zentaro
Published: June 2018

Background

Out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in infants or toddlers mainly occurs at home. Therefore, parents should be able to perform immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when they witness OHCA. The status of knowledge regarding CPR among parents, however, remains unclear. The aim of the present study was therefore to determine the factors associated with awareness of CPR in parents of 3‐year‐old children.

Methods

We analyzed a subset of data from a population‐based, cross‐sectional survey that served as an evaluation of a national campaign for maternal and child health in Japan. The questionnaire was distributed to 32 897 parents who visited public health centers for medical check‐ups for their children in 2013. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out using the obtained demographic data.

Results

Overall, 26 971 parents (82.0%) responded to the questionnaire. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, birth order of the child, age of the mother at delivery, awareness of medical facilities for emergency services at night or during the weekend, current occupation status of the mother, and current economic status were independently associated with CPR awareness. When the mother was employed but the parents felt economically insufficient, the probability of having CPR knowledge decreased by 19%. Regardless of the parents’ economic stability, the probability of having CPR knowledge declined by >35% when the mother was unemployed.

Conclusions

The current occupation status of mothers and the current parent economic status should be considered when planning educational strategies regarding CPR training for parents.
Increased use of third‐generation cephalosporin antibiotics in the outpatient setting in Korean children and adolescents
Authors: Song Inmyung , Park Sang Jun , Byun Seong Jun , Choe Young‐June , Shin Ju‐Young
Published: June 2018

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is a concern to public health, and controlling antibiotic use is therefore important. This study analyzed the trend in outpatient antibiotic prescriptions in children and adolescents in Korea.

Methods

Using National Prescribing Sample data from the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2014, we analyzed outpatient systemic antibiotic (anatomical therapeutic chemical [ATC] J01) prescriptions in patients aged 2–17 years. The antibiotic rate was defined as the proportion of all outpatient prescriptions for antibiotics. We calculated absolute and relative differences with 95%CI between 2010 and 2014 in the antibiotic rate by age group (2–6, 7–11, and 12–17 years) and the percentage of antibiotic prescriptions by antibiotic class. Seven of the most commonly used antibiotic drugs were identified based on defined daily dose.

Results

A total of 7 261 176 prescriptions were written for 1 039 756 pediatric patients between 2010 and 2014. The antibiotic rate in all patients increased from 34.8% in 2010 to 70.4% in 2014, resulting in the relative difference of 102.1% (95%CI: 101.7–102.5). Extended spectrum penicillins were the most commonly prescribed antibiotic class, accounting for 40.0–41.0% of all antibiotic prescriptions. The use of third‐generation cephalosporins increased steeply with the relative difference of 55.7% (95%CI: 55.2–56.2). Amoxicillin/clavulanate, an extended spectrum antibiotic drug, was the predominately used antibiotic drug but the use of cefpodoxime, a third‐generation cephalosporin, increased by 96%.

Conclusions

The use of outpatient antibiotics, especially third‐generation cephalosporins, has increased in children and adolescents in Korea.
Rb–Sr Dating of Gold‐Bearing Pyrite in the Jinchang Porphyry Cu–Au Deposit, Heilongjiang Province, NE China
Authors: Zhang Peng , Kou Linlin , Bi Zhongwei , Han Renping , Zhao Yan , Sha Deming
Published: June 2018

The Jinchang Cu–Au deposit in Heilongjiang Province, NE China, is located in the easternmost part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. Rb–Sr analyses of auriferous pyrite from the deposit yielded an isochron age of 113.7 ±2.5 Ma, consistent with previously reported Re–Os ages. Both sets of ages represent the timing of Cu–Au mineralization because (i) the pyrite was separated from quartz–sulfide veins of the mineralization stage in granite porphyry; (ii) fluid inclusions have relatively high Rb, Sr, and Os content, allowing precise measurement; (iii) there are no other mineral inclusions or secondary fluids in pyrite to disturb the Rb–Sr or Re–Os decay systems; and (iv) the closure temperatures of the two decay systems are ≥500°C (compared with the homogenization temperatures of fluid inclusions of 230–510°C). It is proposed that ore‐forming components were derived from mantle–crust mixing, with ore‐forming fluids being mainly exsolved from magmas with minor amounts of meteoric water. The age of mineralization at Jinchang and in the adjacent regions, combined with the tectonic evolution of the northeast China epicontinental region, indicates that the formation of the Jinchang porphyry Cu–Au deposit was associated with Early Cretaceous subduction of the paleo‐Pacific Plate.
Are medical students trained in cross‐cover?
Authors: Heidemann Lauren A , Fitzgerald James T , Hartley Sarah
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To examine the current state of cross‐cover education in undergraduate medical education and intern perceived readiness to provide cross‐cover.

Methods

An electronic survey was distributed to 126 incoming interns in surgery, internal medicine, family medicine and paediatrics residencies at a single academic centre. Information regarding prior cross‐cover training, experience, confidence, and responses to a sample cross‐cover case were obtained.

Results

The survey response rate was 69.8% (88 of 126), which included both partial and complete responses. Fifty‐seven interns out of 85 (67.1%) had no formal training and 51 (60.0%) had no experience performing cross‐cover. They reported feeling unprepared to provide cross‐cover, with an average score of 1.8 on a 5‐point Likert scale (1, not at all confident; 5, extremely confident). Interns had more confidence in performing cross‐cover tasks if they had prior direct cross‐cover experience (p = 0.001), and were the least confident in performing the initial evaluation and management of urgent issues (Likert score = 1.6).

Scores on the sample case were correlated with the amount of prior experience with patients (p = 0.06). Only 77.7% of interns indicated that they would notify their senior resident in two urgent scenarios. Those who reported higher confidence in knowing when to ask for help were more likely to appropriately notify their senior colleague (p = 0.005).

We identified gaps in cross‐cover training and in the preparedness of incoming interns

Conclusions

We identified gaps in cross‐cover training and in the preparedness of incoming interns. This has important implications for the first day of residency, when interns are often asked to perform cross‐coverage, yet feel unprepared to do so and express the greatest concern in urgent cross‐cover scenarios. Addressing this curricular gap is crucial in assuring safe cross‐cover care.
Do HIV treatment eligibility expansions crowd out the sickest? Evidence from rural South Africa
Authors: Kluberg Sheryl A. , Fox Matthew P. , LaValley Michael , Pillay Deenan , Bärnighausen Till , Bor Jacob
Published: June 2018

Objective

The 2015 WHO recommendation to initiate all HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at diagnosis could potentially overextend health systems and crowd out sicker patients, mitigating the policy's impact. We evaluate whether South Africa's prior eligibility expansion from CD4 ≤ 200 to CD4 ≤ 350 cells/μl reduced ART uptake in the sickest patients.

Methods

Using data on all patients presenting to the Hlabisa HIV Treatment and Care Programme in KwaZulu‐Natal from April 2010 to June 2012 (n = 13 809), we assessed the impact of the August 2011 eligibility expansion on the number of patients seeking care, number initiating ART and time from HIV diagnosis to ART initiation among patients always eligible (CD4 0–200), newly eligible (CD4 201–350) and not yet eligible by CD4 count (>350). We used interrupted time series methods to control for long‐run trends and isolate the effect of the policy.

Results

Expanding ART eligibility led to an increased number of patients initiating ART per month [+95.5; 95% CI (−1.3; 192.3)]. Newly eligible patients (CD4 201–350) initiated treatment 47% faster than before (95% CI 19%; 82%), while the sickest patients (CD4 ≤ 200) saw no decline in the monthly number of patients initiating treatment or the rate of treatment uptake.

Conclusion

The Hlabisa programme successfully extended ART to patients with CD4 ≤ 350 cells/μl, while ensuring that the sickest patients did not experience delays in ART initiation. Treatment programmes must be vigilant to maintain quality of care for the sickest as countries move to treat all patients irrespective of CD4 count.
First detection of Leishmania donovani in sand flies from Cameroon and its epidemiological implications
Authors: Tateng Aimé Ngouateu , Kirstein Oscar David , Ngouateu Omer Bébé , Krüger Andreas , von Stebut Esther , Maurer Marcus , Payne Vincent Khan , Warburg Alon , Dondji Blaise
Published: June 2018

Objectives

A sound knowledge of the vector‐host‐parasite transmission dynamics is a prerequisite for adequate control measures of vector‐borne diseases. To achieve this, an entomological investigation was conducted in the cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) endemic focus of Mokolo District, northern Cameroon to identify the insect vector(s) of the disease.

Methods

Phlebotomine sand flies were collected in and around Mokolo using New Standard CDC Miniature Light Traps. Individual sand flies were used for morphological species identification, and the remainder of the body for DNA analysis. Sand flies were demonstrated to harbour Leishmania spp. parasites using ITS1 PCR. Mitochondrial vertebrate‐specific Cytochrome b ‐PCR was used to identify blood meals ingested by female sand flies. PCR amplicons were sequenced for Leishmania and blood sources discrimination.

Results

This study revealed the presence of Leishmania donovani complex DNA (n = 1) in Phlebotomus duboscqi and of lizard‐borne Leishmania tarentolae‐like DNA (n = 3) in Sergentomyia spp. in 79 sand fly specimens from Mokolo district.

Conclusions

The causative agent of CL could not be detected in potential vectors. Instead, we found evidence for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) parasites in Phlebotomus duboscqi as well as enzootic reptile parasites in the Mokolo area. We recommend that an epidemiological survey be carried out in the area to evaluate the prevalence and eventually describe the clinical manifestations of VL in the human population. Political instability in neighbouring countries and the resulting refugee migration are likely explanations for the emergence of VL in Mokolo.
Persistent reticulocytosis in a case of poodle macrocytosis
Authors: Boyd Susan P. , Best Matthew P.
Published: June 2018

A healthy 14‐year‐old, male neutered, Miniature Poodle was found to have a persistent erythrocyte macrocytosis and reticulocytosis with a normal and stable HCT. The hematologic features of macrocytosis, increased Howell‐Jolly bodies, and metarubricytosis, in the absence of anemia or other cytopenias, combined with the cytologic evidence of bone marrow erythroid dysplasia, including megaloblastosis, binuclearity, increased mitotic activity, and nuclear fragmentation, are consistent with previous reports of congenital dyserythropoiesis termed poodle macrocytosis. We speculate that the additional presence of persistent reticulocytosis in the absence of an identifiable stimulus for accelerated erythropoiesis may represent a phenotypic variation of this inherited condition, and the morphologic abnormalities of the dyserythropoiesis are described.