bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietetic management of gestational diabetes in New Zealand: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Lawrence Robyn L. , Wall Clare R. , Bloomfield Frank H. , Crowther Caroline A.
Published: September 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate dietetic practice in the management of gestational diabetes in New Zealand, compare this with evidence‐based guidelines and determine the need for New Zealand‐specific evidence‐based nutrition practice guidelines for gestational diabetes.

Methods

A 64‐item cross‐sectional online survey of New Zealand‐registered dietitians providing care to women with gestational diabetes was undertaken. Participants were recruited through Dietitians New Zealand, District Health Boards and private practices across New Zealand. The survey examined dietetic service provision, management recommendations, guideline use, service evaluation, compliance with national and international guidelines and the perceived need for New Zealand‐specific evidence‐based guidelines for the nutritional management of gestational diabetes.

Results

Thirty‐three (62%) eligible dietitians participated in the survey. There was significant variation in dietetic services and management recommendations. Nine (28%) dietitians felt the service within which they worked did not offer adequate dietetic services for women with gestational diabetes. Compliance with national and international evidence‐based guidelines ranged from 28 to 100% depending on the recommendation. Twenty‐five (76%) respondents felt there was a need for New Zealand‐specific evidence‐based nutrition practice guidelines for gestational diabetes.

Conclusions

These results highlight differences in dietetic services and practice in New Zealand and variations in compliance with local and international evidence‐based guidelines. The development of New Zealand‐specific evidence‐based nutrition practice guidelines for gestational diabetes is supported.
Generation of glucagon‐like peptide‐2‐expressing Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its improvement of the intestinal health of weaned rats
Authors: Zhang Zhongwei , Wu Xiaodong , Cao Lili , Zhong Zhengdong , Zhou Yan
Published: September 2016

We aimed to assess the feasibility of enhancing the intestinal development of weaned rats using glucagon‐like peptide‐2 (GLP‐2)‐expressing Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae). GLP‐2‐expressing S. cerevisiae (GLP2‐SC) was generated using a recombinant approach. The diet of weaned rats was supplemented with the GLP2‐SC strain. The average daily gain (ADG), the intestinal morphology and the activities of the digestive enzymes in the jejunum were tested to assess the influence of the GLP2‐SC strain on intestinal development. The proliferation of rat enterocytes was also assessed in vitro. The study revealed that the ADG of the weaned rats that received GLP2‐SC was significantly greater than that of the controls fed a basal diet (Control) and S. cerevisiae harbouring an empty vector (EV‐SC) (P < 0.05) but was equivalent to that of positive control rats fed recombinant human GLP‐2 (rh‐GLP2) (P > 0.05). Furthermore, GLP2‐SC significantly increased villous height (P < 0.01) and digestive enzyme activity (P < 0.05) in the jejunum. Immunohistochemistry analysis further affirmed that enterocyte proliferation was stimulated in rats fed the GLP2‐SC strain, as indicated by the greater number of enterocytes stained with proliferative cell nuclear antigen (P < 0.05). In vitro, the proliferation of rat enterocytes was also stimulated by GLP‐2 expressed by the GLP2‐SC strain (P < 0.01). Herein, the combination of the GLP‐2 approach and probiotic delivery constitute a possible dietary supplement for animals after weaning.
Effects of foliar apple trichomes on Galendromus occidentalis (Nesbitt) (Acari: Phytoseiidae): preferences, fecundity and prey consumption
Authors: Schmidt‐Jeffris Rebecca A. , Beers Elizabeth H.
Published: September 2016

Tritrophic interactions may alter the efficacy of biocontrol agents such as Galendromus occidentalis, the primary predator of tetranychids in Washington State apple. Apple cultivars vary in leaf pubescence, which may differentially affect the performance of G. occidentalis.

The present study aimed to determine both preference and performance of G. occidentalis on pubescent and glabrous surfaces. Choice tests were conducted on two apple cultivars: ‘Oregon Spur Delicious’ – pubescent and ‘Golden Delicious’ – glabrous, as well as by adding simulated trichomes to a bean leaf disk. No‐choice tests measured oviposition and prey consumption on the two apple cultivars.

Galendromus occidentalis consumed more prey on the ‘Oregon Spur Delicious’ side of arenas, although only when arenas were constructed without including the leaf midrib. When the midrib was included, G. occidentalis preferred to oviposit on the ‘Oregon Spur Delicious’ side. The preference of G. occidentalis for simulated trichomes did not lead to a performance difference between cultivars. In the no‐choice test, G. occidentalis did not differ in performance between cultivars.

These studies indicate that G. occidentalis may have a slight preference for more pubescent surfaces, although this preference is not sufficiently strong to alter its biocontrol performance. As a specialist, G. occidentalis may be more adapted to tracking populations of its prey than locating ‘ideal’ host plants.
Evaluation of the introduction of the OSCE to the fifth‐year Geriatric Medicine Teaching Programme
Authors: Vanlint Andrew , Tam Khai Loon , Yu Solomon , Visvanathan Renuka
Published: September 2016

Aim

An Observed Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) was integrated into the assessment for senior medical students undertaking a 4.5‐week geriatric medicine teaching block at one campus. The feasibility and acceptability of an OSCE were examined.

Methods

Students completed eight questions regarding the OSCE using a 6‐point Likert scale and two additional questions, using free text, highlighting the strengths and potential areas for improvement. Changes were made every 6 months over a two‐year period in response to student evaluation.

Results

Improvements included adjusting the format to conform with end‐of‐year examinations and introducing simulated patients. Following these improvements, students perceived improved structure and sequence to the assessments, improved opportunity for demonstration of skills and knowledge and that the assessment was fair.

Conclusion

This preliminary research provides evidence that it is feasible to introduce OSCE as a form of assessment into a geriatric medicine teaching programme and student evaluation can be used to inform improvements.
A nomogram for prediction of prostate cancer on multi‐core biopsy using age, serum prostate‐specific antigen, prostate volume and digital rectal examination in Singapore
Authors: Lee Alvin , Lim Joel , Gao Xiao , Liu Lizhen , Chia Sing Joo
Published: September 2016

Aim

To develop and internally validate two nomograms for predicting the probability of overall and clinically‐significant prostate cancer on initial biopsy in a Singaporean population.

Methods

Data were collected from men undergoing initial prostate biopsy at a single center. The indications for biopsy were serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) ≥4.0 ng/mL or suspicious digital rectal examination (DRE) findings. Men with PSA >30 ng/mL were excluded. Age, PSA, prostate volume (PV) and DRE were predictors included in our logistic regression model and used to construct two nomograms for overall prostate cancer and clinically‐significant (Gleason sum ≥7) cancer detection. Predictive accuracies of our nomograms were assessed using area under curve (AUC) of their receiver–operator characteristic curves. Internal validation was performed using the bootstrap method. Our nomograms were compared to a model based on PSA alone using AUC and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Out of 672 men analyzed, our positive biopsy rate was 26.2% (n = 176), of which 63.6% (n = 112) had clinically significant disease. Age, PSA, PV and DRE status were all independent risk factors for both overall prostate cancer detection as well as clinically‐significant cancer detection (all P < 0.05). Our nomogram outperformed serum PSA for both overall and clinically‐significant cancer detection (0.736 vs 0.642, P < 0.001 and 0.793 vs 0.696, P < 0.001, respectively). Using DCA, our nomograms had superior net benefit and net reduction in biopsy rate compared to PSA alone.

Conclusions

Our nomograms have been shown to be superior to PSA alone, on both AUC and DCA. However, it warrants external validation.
Granular parakeratosis induced by benzalkonium chloride exposure from laundry rinse aids
Authors: Robinson Aaron J , Foster Rachael S , Halbert Anne R , King Emma , Orchard David
Published: September 2016

Benzalkonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium cationic detergent present in a number of household products, which can act as a major skin irritant. We present the case of six children who developed granular parakeratosis after exposure to benzalkonium chloride in laundry rinse aids, presenting as a brightly erythematous, tender but minimally pruritic, intertriginous eruption followed by superficial desquamation. The eruptions resolved over 3–4 weeks after cessation of exposure.
Unlikely Democrats: Economic Elite Uncertainty under Dictatorship and Support for Democratization
Authors: Albertus Michael , Gay Victor
Published: September 2016

Influential recent scholarship assumes that authoritarian rulers act as perfect agents of economic elites, foreclosing the possibility that economic elites may at times prefer democracy absent a popular threat from below. Motivated by a puzzling set of democratic transitions, we relax this assumption and examine how elite uncertainty about dictatorship—a novel and generalizable causal mechanism impacting democratization—can induce elite support for democracy. We construct a noisy signaling model in which a potential autocrat attempts to convince economic elites that he will be a faithful partner should elites install him in power. The model generates clear predictions about how two major types of elite uncertainty—uncertainty in a potential autocratic successor's policies produced by variance in the pool of would‐be dictator types, and uncertainty in the truthfulness of policy promises made by potential autocratic successors—impact the likelihood of elite‐driven democratization. We demonstrate the model's plausibility in a series of cases of democratic transition.
RORγt antagonist suppresses M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor-induced Sjögren's syndrome-like sialadenitis
Authors: Tahara M , Tsuboi H , Segawa S , Asashima H , Iizuka-Koga M , Hirota T , Takahashi H , Kondo Y , Matsui M , Matsumoto I , Sumida T
Published: September 2016

We showed recently that M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3R)-reactive CD3+ T cells play a pathogenic role in the development of murine autoimmune sialadenitis (MIS), which mimics Sjögren's syndrome (SS). The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness and mechanism of action of retinoic acid-related orphan receptor-gamma t (RORγt) antagonist (A213) in MIS. Splenocytes from M3R knockout (M3R–/–) mice immunized with murine M3R peptide mixture were inoculated into recombination-activating gene 1 knockout (Rag-1–/–) mice (M3R–/–→Rag-1–/–) with MIS. Immunized M3R–/– mice (pretransfer treatment) and M3R–/–→Rag-1–/– mice (post-transfer treatment) were treated with A213 every 3 days. Salivary volume, severity of sialadenitis and cytokine production from M3R peptide-stimulated splenocytes and lymph node cells were examined. Effects of A213 on cytokine production were analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and on T helper type 1 (Th1), Th17 and Th2 differentiation from CD4+ T cells by flow cytometry. Pretransfer A213 treatment maintained salivary volume, improved MIS and reduced interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-17 production significantly compared with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (P < 0·05). These suppressive effects involved CD4+ T cells rather than CD11c+ cells. Post-transfer treatment with A213 increased salivary volume (P < 0·05), suppressed MIS (P < 0·005) and reduced IFN-γ and IL-17 production (P < 0·05). In vitro, A213 suppressed IFN-γ and IL-17 production from M3R-stimulated splenocytes and CD4+ T cells of immunized M3R–/– mice (P < 0·05). In contrast with M3R specific responses, A213 suppressed only IL-17 production from Th17 differentiated CD4+ T cells without any effect on Th1 and Th2 differentiation in vitro. Our findings suggested that RORγt antagonism is potentially suitable treatment strategy for SS-like sialadenitis through suppression of IL-17 and IFN-γ production by M3R-specific T cells.
Node of Ranvier disruption in Guillain–Barré syndrome
Authors: Susuki Keiichiro
Published: September 2016

Guillain–Barré syndrome is an autoimmune polyneuropathy characterized by acute and progressive limb weakness. Recent evidence shows that disruption of the nodes of Ranvier is the key pathophysiology in axonal forms of Guillain–Barré syndrome. Rapid and efficient propagation of action potentials along myelinated nerve fibers depends on the high density of voltage‐gated Na+ channels on the nodal axolemma. Complement‐mediated autoimmune attacks against gangliosides cause dysfunction and structural damage at and near nodes, resulting in nerve conduction failure. Furthermore, the proteins highly enriched at and near the nodes can be a direct target of autoimmune reactions, and these autoantibodies might exacerbate immune‐mediated demyelinating neuropathies. The present review focuses on disruption of the nodes of Ranvier during Guillain–Barré syndrome and related disorders.
Sociodemographic, psychosocial and clinical factors associated with uptake of genetic counselling for hereditary cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Willis A.M. , Smith S.K. , Meiser B. , Ballinger M.L. , Thomas D.M. , Young M.‐A.
Published: September 2016

Evidence suggests that a significant proportion of individuals referred to cancer genetic counselling (GC) do not attend, and thus may not be engaged in adequate cancer risk management. We aimed to review the literature to better understand barriers to accessing GC and how they may be overcome. We conducted a systematic literature search for articles examining factors influencing cancer GC uptake as well as motivators and barriers to GC attendance. Factors were categorised as sociodemographic, psychosocial or clinical. The literature search identified 1413 citations, 35 of which met the inclusion criteria. GC uptake ranged from 19% to 88%. With the exceptions of education level, socioeconomic status, cancer‐specific distress, personal cancer diagnosis and actual and perceived risk of cancer, support was lacking for most sociodemographic, clinical and psychosocial factors as predictors of GC uptake. Cost and logistical barriers, emotional concerns, family concerns and low perceived personal relevance were reported as important considerations for those declining GC. We conclude that there is poor understanding of GC and a lack of decision support among those referred to GC. Research into ways of providing education and support to referred individuals will be important as the scope and availability of GC and genetic testing broaden.
Gene expression profiling of CD8+ T cells induced by ovarian cancer cells suggests a possible mechanism for CD8+ Treg cell production
Authors: Wu Meng , Lou Jianfang , Zhang Shuping , Chen Xian , Huang Lei , Sun Ruihong , Huang Peijun , Pan Shiyang , Wang Fang
Published: September 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate a possible mechanism of CD8+ regulatory T‐cell (Treg) production in an ovarian cancer (OC) microenvironment.

Materials and methods

Agilent microarray was used to detect changes in gene expression between CD8+ T cells cultured with and without the SKOV3 ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line. QRT‐PCR was performed to determine glycolysis gene expression in CD8+ T cells from a transwell culturing system and OC patients. We also detected protein levels of glycolysis‐related genes using Western blot analysis.

Results

Comparing gene expression profiles revealed significant differences in expression levels of 1420 genes, of which 246 were up‐regulated and 1174 were down‐regulated. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis indicated that biological processes altered in CD8+ Treg are particularly associated with energy metabolism. CD8+ Treg cells induced by co‐culture with SKOV3 had lower glycolysis gene expression compared to CD8+T cells cultured alone. Glycolysis gene expression was also decreased in the CD8+ T cells of OC patients.

Conclusions

These findings provide a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of DEGs in CD8+ T cells cultured with and without SKOV3 and suggests that metabolic processes may be a possible mechanism for CD8+ Treg induction.
Participation, both a means and an end: a conceptual analysis of processes and outcomes in childhood disability
Authors: Imms Christine , Granlund Mats , Wilson Peter H , Steenbergen Bert , Rosenbaum Peter L , Gordon Andrew M
Published: September 2016

This review outlines a conceptual approach to inform research and practice aimed at supporting children whose lives are complicated by impairment and/or chronic medical conditions, and their families. ‘Participation’ in meaningful life activities should be an essential intervention goal, to meet the challenges of healthy growth and development, and to provide opportunities to help ensure that young people with impairments reach their full potential across their lifespan. Intervention activities and research can focus on participation as either an independent or dependent variable. The proposed framework and associated hypotheses are applicable to children and young people with a wide variety of conditions, and to their families. In taking a fresh ‘non‐categorical’ perspective to health for children and young people, asking new questions, and exploring issues in innovative ways, we expect to learn lessons and to develop creative solutions that will ultimately benefit children with a wide variety of impairments and challenges, and their families, everywhere.
Lack of trophic polymorphism despite substantial genetic differentiation in sympatric brown trout (Salmo trutta) populations
Authors: Andersson Anastasia , Johansson Frank , Sundbom Marcus , Ryman Nils , Laikre Linda
Published: September 2016

Sympatric populations occur in many freshwater fish species; such populations are typically detected through morphological distinctions that are often coupled to food niche and genetic separations. In salmonids, trophic and genetically separate sympatric populations have been reported in landlocked Arctic char, whitefish and brown trout. In Arctic char and brown trout rare cases of sympatric, genetically distinct populations have been detected based on genetic data alone, with no apparent morphological differences, that is “cryptic” structuring. It remains unknown whether such cryptic, sympatric structuring can be coupled to food niche separation. Here, we perform an extensive screening for trophic divergence of two genetically divergent, seemingly cryptic, sympatric brown trout populations documented to remain in stable sympatry over several decades in two interconnected, tiny mountain lakes in a nature reserve in central Sweden. We investigate body shape, body length, gill raker metrics, breeding status and diet (stomach content analysis and stable isotopes) in these populations. We find small significant differences for body shape, body size and breeding status, and no evidence of food niche separation between these two populations. In contrast, fish in the two lakes differed in body shape, diet, and nitrogen and carbon isotope signatures despite no genetic difference between lakes. These genetically divergent populations apparently coexist using the same food resources and showing the same adaptive plasticity to the local food niches of the two separate lakes. Such observations have not been reported previously but may be more common than recognised as genetic screenings are necessary to detect the structures.
Effect of nucleus accumbens lesions on socially motivated behaviour of young domestic chicks
Authors: Zachar Gergely , Tóth András Sebestyén , Balogh Márton , Csillag András
Published: September 2016

Behaviour of young domestic chicks when isolated from conspecifics is influenced by two conflicting drives: fear of potential predator and craving for company. The nucleus accumbens (Ac) has been suggested to influence social behaviour, as well as motivation in goal‐directed tasks. In this study, the Ac of 1‐day‐old domestic chicks was lesioned bilaterally, using radiofrequency method. Open field behaviour before and after presenting a silhouette of a bird of prey was recorded, followed by a behavioural test to measure group size preference and social motivation of chicks. Ac‐lesioned individuals emitted more distress calls and ambulated more in the open field test, however, they reacted to the predatory stimulus very similarly to control chicks: their vocalization was reduced and the intergroup difference in motor activity also disappeared. There was no difference between the lesioned and control chicks in the latency to approach their conspecifics in the social motivation test, and both groups chose the larger flock (eight) of conspecifics over the smaller one (three). Concerning the role of Ac in social behaviour, a difference between lesioned and sham birds was evident here only in the absence of detectable stimulus (predator or conspecifics). These findings may reflect either decreased fear of exposure to predators or increased craving for conspecifics suggesting that the likely function of Ac is to modulate goal‐driven, including socially driven, behaviours, especially when the direct stimulus representing the goal is absent. This is in harmony with the known promotion of impulsiveness by Ac lesions.
Neonatal maternal separation stress elicits lasting DNA methylation changes in the hippocampus of stress‐reactive Wistar Kyoto rats
Authors: McCoy Chelsea R. , Rana Samir , Stringfellow Sara Anne , Day Jeremy J. , Wyss J. Michael , Clinton Sarah M. , Kerman Ilan A.
Published: September 2016

Early‐life stress (ELS) can alter neurodevelopment in variable ways, ranging from producing deleterious outcomes to stress resilience. While most ELS studies focus on its harmful effects, recent work by our laboratory and others shows that ELS elicits positive effects in certain individuals. We exposed Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats, known for a stress reactive, anxiety/depression‐like phenotype, to maternal separation (MS), a model of ELS. MS exposure elicited anxiolytic and antidepressant behavioral effects as well as improved cardiovascular function in adult WKY offspring. This study interrogates an epigenetic mechanism (DNA methylation) that may confer the adaptive effects of MS in WKY offspring. We quantified global genome methylation levels in limbic brain regions of adult WKYs exposed to daily 180‐min MS or neonatal handling from postnatal day 1–14. MS exposure triggered dramatic DNA hypermethylation specifically in the hippocampus. Next‐generation sequencing methylome profiling revealed reduced methylation at intragenic sites within two key nodes of insulin signaling pathways: the insulin receptor and one of its major downstream targets, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase 5 (Map3k5). We then tested the hypothesis that enhancing DNA methylation in WKY rats would elicit adaptive changes akin to the effects of MS. Dietary methyl donor supplementation improved WKY rats’ anxiety/depression‐like behaviors and also improved cardiovascular measures, similar to previous observations following MS. Overall, these data suggest a potential molecular mechanism that mediates a predicted adaptive response, whereby ELS induces DNA methylation changes in the brain that may contribute to successful stress coping and adaptive physiological changes in adulthood.
Partitioning controls on Amazon forest photosynthesis between environmental and biotic factors at hourly to interannual timescales
Authors: Wu Jin , Guan Kaiyu , Hayek Matthew , Restrepo‐Coupe Natalia , Wiedemann Kenia T. , Xu Xiangtao , Wehr Richard , Christoffersen Bradley O. , Miao Guofang , da Silva Rodrigo , de Araujo Alessandro C. , Oliviera Raimundo C. , Camargo Plinio B. , Monson Russell K. , Huete Alfredo R. , Saleska Scott R.
Published: September 2016

Gross ecosystem productivity (GEP) in tropical forests varies both with the environment and with biotic changes in photosynthetic infrastructure, but our understanding of the relative effects of these factors across timescales is limited. Here, we used a statistical model to partition the variability of seven years of eddy covariance‐derived GEP in a central Amazon evergreen forest into two main causes: variation in environmental drivers (solar radiation, diffuse light fraction, and vapor pressure deficit) that interact with model parameters that govern photosynthesis and biotic variation in canopy photosynthetic light‐use efficiency associated with changes in the parameters themselves. Our fitted model was able to explain most of the variability in GEP at hourly (R2 = 0.77) to interannual (R2 = 0.80) timescales. At hourly timescales, we found that 75% of observed GEP variability could be attributed to environmental variability. When aggregating GEP to the longer timescales (daily, monthly, and yearly), however, environmental variation explained progressively less GEP variability: At monthly timescales, it explained only 3%, much less than biotic variation in canopy photosynthetic light‐use efficiency, which accounted for 63%. These results challenge modeling approaches that assume GEP is primarily controlled by the environment at both short and long timescales. Our approach distinguishing biotic from environmental variability can help to resolve debates about environmental limitations to tropical forest photosynthesis. For example, we found that biotically regulated canopy photosynthetic light‐use efficiency (associated with leaf phenology) increased with sunlight during dry seasons (consistent with light but not water limitation of canopy development) but that realized GEP was nonetheless lower relative to its potential efficiency during dry than wet seasons (consistent with water limitation of photosynthesis in given assemblages of leaves). This work highlights the importance of accounting for differential regulation of GEP at different timescales and of identifying the underlying feedbacks and adaptive mechanisms.
Effects of Changing Meteoric Precipitation Patterns on Groundwater Temperature in Karst Environments
Authors: Brookfield A.E. , Macpherson G.L. , Covington M.D.
Published: September 2016

Climate predictions indicate that precipitation patterns will change and average air temperatures will increase across much of the planet. These changes will alter surface water and groundwater temperatures which can significantly affect the local and regional environment. Here, we examine the role of precipitation timing in changes to groundwater temperature in carbonate‐karst aquifers using measured groundwater level and temperature data from the Konza Prairie Long‐Term Ecological Research Site, Kansas. We demonstrate that shifts to increased cool‐season precipitation may mitigate the increases in groundwater temperature produced by increases in average annual air temperature. In karst, the solution‐enlarged conduits allow faster and focused recharge, and the recharge‐event temperature can strongly influence the groundwater temperature in the aquifer. Our field data and analysis show that predictions of future groundwater conditions in karst aquifers need to consider changes in precipitation patterns, in addition to changes to average annual air temperature.
Complex Inversion of MRT Signals under Different Loop Configurations for Groundwater Exploration
Authors: Chen Bin , Hu Xiangyun , Li Jianhui , Liu Yajun
Published: September 2016

Surface nuclear magnetic resonance (SNMR) is a relatively new geophysical method for non‐invasive groundwater exploration and aquifer characterization. Conventional SNMR surveys based on one‐dimensional (1‐D) inversion of amplitude data recorded only using coincident loops provide limited or distorted groundwater distribution information, especially in regions with strong lateral heterogeneity and complicated hydrological environments. The simplistic approach limits the applicability and efficiency of SNMR, which was therefore made more effective in this study using a sophisticated signal response formulation. The elliptical polarization parameters of the excitation magnetic fields and 2‐D sensitivity kernels (including real and imaginary parts) of three commonly used loop configurations were first calculated. After all the individual complex signals of five simulated measurement series along a profile were incorporated. The 2‐D magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) complex inversion scheme was then used to perform high resolution tomography of synthetic models under the three loop configurations, taking full advantage of the different sensitivity distributions offered by the different loop configurations and the high sensitivity of the imaginary parts of signals to deep structures. Contrast analyses of the tomographic results showed that the complex inversions significantly decreased model ambiguities and increased depth resolution even with artificial noise added. Coincident loop measurements usually gave the best vertical resolution, and separated loops provided better lateral resolution. However, various factors would influence phase data, meaning that the complex inversion of field data is neither very reliable nor very common at present.
Sex in Prisoner Power Relations: Attitudes and Practices in a Ukrainian Correctional Colony for Men
Authors: SYMKOVYCH ANTON
Published: September 2016

Most research on prison sex has originated in the global West, often employing quantitative methodology. Building on a semi‐ethnographic study of a Ukrainian prison, this article explores how prisoners and officers perceive prisoner sex. Rape was not reported in this prison, despite the relatively young prison population. I argue that the informal prisoner power structure of the prison underworld diminishes sexual abuse. Thus, contrary to much of the literature, masculinity, homophobia, and informal prisoner hierarchies can equally instigate and restrain prison violence and sexual victimisation.
The obesity paradox: an endocrine perspective
Authors: Cheung Yee‐Ming , Joham Anju , Marks Sharon , Teede Helena
Published: September 2016

Obesity is a growing epidemic both in Australia and worldwide. Being overweight or obese is known to be adversely associated with multiple cardiovascular risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, lipid disorders and hypertension. Despite the adverse impact of overweight and obesity, recent observational studies have suggested that in some overweight and obese individuals with established chronic disease, there is a survival advantage that is paradoxically better than individuals of normal weight. A burgeoning area of interest is the existence of this paradox in chronic endocrine disorders, especially with respect to osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as the latter's chronic complications, chronic kidney disease and coronary artery disease. In this article, we review the postulated mechanisms and latest evidence concerning the obesity paradox, with a focus on endocrine‐related diseases. We discuss confounders and biases that exist in observational studies from which the paradox has been described and highlight that, despite the observed paradox, substantial literature exists supporting the benefits of weight reduction in obesity.
Inpatient healthcare utilisation in patients with alcoholic liver disease: what are the costs and outcomes?
Authors: Williamson K. D. , Gill M. G. , Andrews J. M. , Harley H. A. J.
Published: September 2016

Background

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) carries a significant cost burden and often leads to inpatient care. It is unclear whether inpatient care for ALD is any more costly than admission for other reasons.

Aims

To compare the costs and outcomes of inpatient care for ALD to two groups: a control group of matched cases admitted in the same time frame and people admitted for other chronic liver diseases (CLD).

Methods

All admissions for ALD and other CLD in a 3‐month period were retrospectively identified. Five randomly identified gender‐ and age‐matched contemporaneously admitted controls were allocated. Length of stay (LoS), mortality, inpatient costs, blood product utilisation and discharge destination were compared.

Results

Of the 71 admissions due to CLD, ALD was the most frequent cause (53/71, 75%). ALD admissions cost more (median $10 100 vs $5294; P = 0.0012) and had greater LoS (median LoS 7.2 days (interquartile range (IQR) 0.2–40.7)) than controls (2.6 days (IQR 1.1–6.8); P = 0.0001). A larger proportion of the ALD cohort required blood transfusion and had a higher mortality than controls (24.5 vs 6.4%, P = 0.002 and 13.2 vs 0.2%; P < 0.0001 respectively). Self‐discharge was more common in the ALD group (13.2 vs 1.1%, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

ALD inpatient hospital admissions have greater median total cost, longer LoS, greater blood product utilisation, higher mortality and greater rate of discharge against medical advice than age‐ and gender‐matched controls. These data emphasise the large inpatient care burden, high mortality and suboptimal engagement in those with ALD, which justifies the more active provision of services for ALD.
Bond Fund Performance During Recessions and Expansions: Empirical Evidence from a Small Market
Authors: Leite Paulo , Armada Manuel Rocha
Published: September 2016

This paper provides the first investigation about bond mutual fund performance during recession and expansion periods separately. Based on multi‐factor performance evaluation models, results show that bond funds significantly underperform the market during both phases of the business cycle. Nevertheless, unlike equity funds, bond funds exhibit considerably higher alphas during good economic states than during market downturns. These results, however, seem entirely driven by the global financial crisis sub‐period. In contrast, during the recession associated to the Euro sovereign debt crisis, bond funds are able to accomplish neutral performance. This improved performance throughout the debt crisis seems to be related to more conservative investment strategies, which reflect an increase in managers' risk aversion.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Profiles, Stock Returns, and Financial Policy: Australian Evidence
Authors: Limkriangkrai Manapon , Koh SzeKee , Durand Robert B.
Published: September 2016

This study investigates the independent effects of environmental (E), social (S), corporate governance (G), and the composite ESG ratings on stock returns and corporate financing decisions of the largest stocks in the Australian equity market. Firms with high composite ESG ratings tend to increase their leverage. For the individual ratings, we find different inferences: firms with low E and high G ratings tend to raise less debt. Firms with high G ratings hold less cash, while those with low G ratings have lower dividend payouts. S ratings have no impact on corporate financing decisions. There appears to be no significant difference in risk‐adjusted returns for portfolios based on ESG ratings, effectively indicating that there is no cost of ESG investment.
KLRC3, a Natural Killer receptor gene, is a key factor involved in glioblastoma tumourigenesis and aggressiveness
Authors: Cheray Mathilde , Bessette Barbara , Lacroix Aurélie , Mélin Carole , Jawhari Soha , Pinet Sandra , Deluche Elise , Clavère Pierre , Durand Karine , Sanchez‐Prieto Ricardo , Jauberteau Marie‐Odile , Battu Serge , Lalloué Fabrice
Published: September 2016

Glioblastoma is the most lethal brain tumour with a poor prognosis. Cancer stem cells (CSC) were proposed to be the most aggressive cells allowing brain tumour recurrence and aggressiveness. Current challenge is to determine CSC signature to characterize these cells and to develop new therapeutics. In a previous work, we achieved a screening of glycosylation‐related genes to characterize specific genes involved in CSC maintenance. Three genes named CHI3L1, KLRC3 and PRUNE2 were found overexpressed in glioblastoma undifferentiated cells (related to CSC) compared to the differentiated ones. The comparison of their roles suggest that KLRC3 gene coding for NKG2E, a protein initially identified in NK cells, is more important than both two other genes in glioblastomas aggressiveness. Indeed, KLRC3 silencing decreased self‐renewal capacity, invasion, proliferation, radioresistance and tumourigenicity of U87‐MG glioblastoma cell line. For the first time we report that KLRC3 gene expression is linked to glioblastoma aggressiveness and could be a new potential therapeutic target to attenuate glioblastoma.
Objective severity does not capture the impact of rosacea, acne scarring and photoaging in patients seeking laser therapy
Authors: Thomas C.L. , Kim B. , Lam J. , Richards S. , See A. , Kalouche S. , Paver R.D. , Fernández Peñas P.
Published: September 2016

Background

Measures of quality of life (QOL) and patient satisfaction are of great importance in dermatology, as both impact upon treatment adherence and health outcomes. Patients’ assessment of QOL often differs from their doctors’ predictions and their assessments of skin disease severity do not correlate with patients’ own perceptions. The development of laser technology has facilitated successful treatment of many skin conditions, but studies on patient satisfaction are lacking.

Objectives

Our aim was to determine the extent of discordance between patient and dermatologist‐assessed disease severity and assess the impact of acne scarring, rosacea and photoaging on QOL. Our secondary aim was to assess patient satisfaction with laser therapy.

Methods

A prospective study of patients undergoing laser treatment for acne scarring, rosacea and photoaging was conducted over 1 year at the Skin & Cancer Foundation Australia. Subjective disease severity was determined using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Two dermatologists determined objective severity using validated grading scales to score photographs. QOL impact was measured by Skindex‐16, satisfaction was measured using an amended Comprehensive Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ‐18).

Results

A total of 147 individuals sought laser therapy for acne scarring, rosacea and photoaging. Dermatologists’ subjective disease severity correlated weakly with patient‐reported severity. All conditions negatively impacted upon QOL. Patients with rosacea had the most symptomatic impact; acne scarring was associated with the greatest self‐esteem and social functioning issues; photoaging patients were the least affected. There were significant correlations between subjective severity assessment and Skindex‐16 scores. There was notable discordance between dermatologist's skin severity assessment and patient's self‐reported QOL impact.

Conclusion

Skin conditions can have a profound impact on patient QOL, which is affected by patients’ perception of disease severity and not fully appreciated by dermatologists’ own severity assessments. Laser therapy is associated with high patient satisfaction.
Effect of Egg‐Replacer and Composite Flour on Physical Properties, Color, Texture and Rheology, Nutritional and Sensory Profile of Cakes
Authors: Agrahar‐Murugkar Dipika , Zaidi Aiman , Kotwaliwale Nachiket , Gupta Chetan
Published: September 2016

Eggless cakes were developed using composite flour (CF) of wheat, malted finger‐millet, sprouted soy and amaranth and egg‐replacers (banana (T1), chia (T2) and soy milk powder (T3)) and were analyzed for physical, textural, rheological, nutritional and organoleptic properties and compared with egg cakes with refined wheat flour (C1) and CF (C2). T1 cake showed no significant difference for batter physical and textural properties with C1. In rheological studies, no significant difference was found for Casson‐plastic viscosity, flow‐behavior index and consistency‐index among T1 and C1 batter. T1 cake had higher volume (437.1 cm3) as compared to T3 (404.4 cm3) and T2 (359.4 cm3). C2 showed highest protein (g/100 g) (14.3) and fat (27), while T3 and T1 cakes contained significantly higher iron contents. On 9‐point hedonic scale, T1 cake scored significantly higher values among T cakes. Therefore, CF was a good replacement for refined flour and banana was the best egg‐replacer for cake developed.

Practical Applications

Increasing consumer search for healthier food options has led researchers to look for alternatives of traditional bakery items such as eggs, refined wheat flour, and butter in food products. Refined wheat flour with low gluten, eggs with its unique foaming, emulsifying and heat coagulation properties and butter giving tenderness, moistness and flavor are important ingredients in bakery products especially in cakes and thus difficult to replace by any other source. Therefore, our research on different egg‐replacers and incorporation of composite flour containing whole wheat, sprouted soybean, malted millet and pseudocereals instead of refined wheat flour in cakes may help manufacturers to produce a healthy product with no sacrifice for its taste and appearance. These alternatives deliver same functional role as that of eggs, butter and flour at much lower cost and can be incorporated into the cakes to obtain desirable organoleptic properties.
Psychological Well‐Being of Older Chinese‐American Grandparents Caring for Grandchildren
Authors: Tang Fengyan , Xu Ling , Chi Iris , Dong XinQi
Published: September 2016

The rapid increase in grandparents caring for grandchildren has received growing attention, but little research has focused on Chinese‐American grandparents and their caregiving experiences. Drawing on cross‐sectional data from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly—a community‐engaged, epidemiological study of Chinese‐American adults aged 60 and older, the relationships between caregiving experiences and psychological well‐being were examined. Of 2,365 older adults who answered the question about grandparent caregiving, 818 (35%) were designated as caregivers, spending an average of 12 hours a week on childcare. About one in five caregivers reported caregiving burden, pressure, or negative health effect of caregiving. Caregivers had better psychological well‐being than noncaregivers, with significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, and loneliness. For caregivers, higher levels of caregiving burden, pressure from adult children, and perceived negative effect were related to greater rates of psychological distress. With a strong cultural expectation of family care, grandparent caregiving is generally associated with positive psychological well‐being, but it can also be stressful, especially when older adults feel pressured to provide childcare or that doing so is a burden. The study implies that cultural values and life transitions may shape grandparent caregiving experiences and well‐being, indicating the importance of respecting cultural differences in family caregiving. Understanding positive and negative aspects of grandparent caregiving and the underlying mechanisms will help healthcare professionals identify caregivers at risk of psychological distress and provide proper interventions to attenuate negative outcomes while maximizing positive experiences for Chinese‐American older adults.
Weight Loss Interventions in Older Adults with Obesity: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials Since 2005
Authors: Batsis John A. , Gill Lydia E. , Masutani Rebecca K. , Adachi‐Mejia Anna M. , Blunt Heather B. , Bagley Pamela J. , Lopez‐Jimenez Francisco , Bartels Stephen J.
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To identify geriatric obesity interventions that can guide clinical recommendations.

Design

Systematic review using Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CINAHL, EMBASE (Ovid), and PsycINFO (Proquest) from January 1, 2005, to October 12, 2015, to identify English‐language randomized controlled trials.

Participants

Individuals aged 60 and older (mean age ≥65) and classified as having obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2).

Interventions

Behavioral weight loss interventions not involving pharmacological or procedural therapies lasting 6 months or longer.

Measurements

Two investigators performed the systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses criteria and achieved a high concordance rate (97.3%) in summarizing the primary outcomes. The three primary outcomes were weight loss, physical performance, and quality of life.

Results

Of 5,741 citations, 19 were included. (Six studies were unique, and the remaining 13 were based on the same study population.) Duration ranged from 6 to 18 months (n = 405 participants, age range 66.7–71.1). Weight loss in the intervention groups ranged from 0.5 to 10.7 kg (0.1–9.3%). Five studies had a resistance exercise program accompanying a dietary component. Greater weight loss was observed in groups with a dietary component than those with exercise alone. Exercise alone led to better physical function but no significant weight loss. Combined dietary and exercise components led to the greatest improvement in physical performance measures and quality of life and mitigated reductions in muscle and bone mass observed in diet‐only study arms. Heterogeneous outcomes were observed, which limited the ability to synthesize the data quantitatively.

Conclusions

The evidence supporting geriatric obesity interventions to improve physical function and quality of life is of low to moderate quality. Well‐designed trials are needed in this population.
Local Risk, Local Factors, and Asset Prices
Authors: TUZEL SELALE , ZHANG MIAO BEN
Published: September 2016

Firm location affects firm risk through local factor prices. We find more procyclical factor prices such as wages and real estate prices in areas with more cyclical economies, namely, high “local beta” areas. While procyclical wages provide a natural hedge against aggregate shocks and reduce firm risk, procyclical prices of real estate, which are part of firm assets, increase firm risk. We confirm that firms located in higher local beta areas have lower industry‐adjusted returns and conditional betas, and show that the effect is stronger among firms with low real estate holdings. A production‐based equilibrium model explains these empirical findings.