bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parents' experiences of child protection practice in Denmark
Authors: Petersen Stina Krogh
Published: March 2018

Not much research focuses on how parents perceive and experience child protection practice although the voices of service users are important in the development of social work within Child Welfare Services. This article contributes to a growing body of research that takes the user perspective as its point of departure when conducting research in social work. Drawing on a qualitative study, this article explores how 17 parents have experienced assessment processes in Denmark. Several studies indicate that parents who by themselves initiate child protection assessment have a greater chance of achieving positive experiences of assessment processes. As the large majority of the parents in this study by themselves initiated the assessment, it seems paradoxical that most of the parents report solely negative experiences. The article discusses different entries into child protection assessments (referral or the parents' own initiative) and suggests that time (in the sense of progression in the assessment) is an important dimension to take into account particularly when it comes to parents who wish to engage in child protection assessments.
Data‐Driven Crowd Motion Control With Multi‐Touch Gestures
Authors: Shen Yijun , Henry Joseph , Wang He , Ho Edmond S. L. , Komura Taku , Shum Hubert P. H.
Published: March 2018

Controlling a crowd using multi‐touch devices appeals to the computer games and animation industries, as such devices provide a high‐dimensional control signal that can effectively define the crowd formation and movement. However, existing works relying on pre‐defined control schemes require the users to learn a scheme that may not be intuitive. We propose a data‐driven gesture‐based crowd control system, in which the control scheme is learned from example gestures provided by different users. In particular, we build a database with pairwise samples of gestures and crowd motions. To effectively generalize the gesture style of different users, such as the use of different numbers of fingers, we propose a set of gesture features for representing a set of hand gesture trajectories. Similarly, to represent crowd motion trajectories of different numbers of characters over time, we propose a set of crowd motion features that are extracted from a Gaussian mixture model. Given a run‐time gesture, our system extracts the K nearest gestures from the database and interpolates the corresponding crowd motions in order to generate the run‐time control. Our system is accurate and efficient, making it suitable for real‐time applications such as real‐time strategy games and interactive animation controls.
Comparison of different grafting materials for treatment of bone defect distal to the molar in canine
Authors: Ge Jing , Yang Chi , Wang Yong , Zheng Jiawei , Hua Hongfei , Zhu Jun
Published: March 2018

Background

The extraction of impacted mandibular 3rd molar is highly related to bone defect distal to the adjacent 2nd molar.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different grafting materials for the treatment of bone defect distal to the mandibular molar in canine model.

Materials and Methods

In 12 beagle dogs, bilateral mandibular 2nd and 3rd molars were extracted and entire mesial bone of the 2nd molar extracted socket was surgically removed. Twenty‐four bone defects (4 mm width and 8 mm depth) were randomly assigned to 4 groups, and grafted using 1 of the following protocols: (1) group C: no graft; (2) group Ta: autogenous bone (AB); (3) group Tb: deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) with a collagen membrane (CM); and (4) group Tab: an equal mixture of AB/DBBM + CM. Quantitative imageology analyses using micro‐CT and fluorescence microscopy, as well as qualitative analyses using histological and histomorphometric evaluations, were characterized at postoperative 12 weeks. Significant differences of all variables were tested by multivariate analysis (P < .05).

Results

The defect depth was significantly lower in groups Ta, Tb, and Tab (1.70, 1.97, and 1.61 mm, respectively; mean) than in the group C (3.66 mm, P < .01, all). Compared to the sites received DBBM/CM, sites grafted with AB or AB/DBBM exhibited significant greater and faster new bone formation (P < .01). The percentage of DBBM remnants area (%) was significantly higher in group Tb than in group Tab (10.43% and 1.13%, P < .01; mean).

Conclusions

Our data suggested grafting AB alone, DBBM/CM, or AB/DBBM/CM resulted in similar periodontal parameters in canine. Furthermore, the AB could accelerate new bone regeneration and mineralization, and promote the biodegradation of DBBM.
One‐year clinical outcomes of locking taper Equator attachments retaining mandibular overdentures to narrow diameter implants
Authors: Marcello‐Machado Raissa Micaella , Faot Fernanda , Schuster Alessandra Julie , Bielemann Amália Machado , Chagas Júnior Otacílio Luiz , Del Bel Cury Altair Antoninha
Published: March 2018

Background

Narrow diameter implants (NDI) are recommended to retain mandibular overdentures (MOs) in cases of limited bone thickness. It is necessary to evaluate the clinical behavior of NDI as MO retainers connected to a new screwless locking taper abutments, their predictability and maintenance problems.

Objectives

To evaluate the peri‐implant tissue behavior around NDI and the performance of locking taper stud abutments as MO retainers.

Methodology

Thirty patients (average age of 67.5 years) received 2 NDI implants (2.9 × 10 mm) loaded after 12 weeks using Equator stud attachments. The plaque index (PI), calculus index (CI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and implant stability quotient (ISQ) were monitored during osseointegration at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks and postloading at 24, 48, and 60 weeks. The marginal bone level (MBL) and bone level changes (BLC) were determined at baseline and 60 weeks.

Results

The cumulative success rate was 83.3%. The PI oscillated in the first 24 weeks and decreased from 48 weeks onward, while the CI score showed significantly higher values at week 8 (22%). The GI also peaked at week 8 (18.6%) and decreased from week 12 onward. The PD decreased gradually over time, but no significant differences were found between weeks 8 and 12. The ISQ decreased significantly between 0 and 12 weeks. After MO loading, the ISQ values increased linearly and significantly between 12 and 24, 24 and 48, and 48 and 60 weeks and reached values similar to the primary stability after 60 weeks [56.1(42.0‐65.3)]. No significant MBL was observed at 60 weeks, with an average BLC of −0.06 ± 0.64 mm.

Conclusion

NDI connected to locking taper Equator attachments showed a stable clinical behavior as an MO retainer for edentulous patients with clinical mandibular atrophy.
Diagnostic performance of cone beam computed tomography in assessing peri‐implant bone loss: A systematic review
Authors: Pelekos Georgios , Acharya Aneesha , Tonetti Maurizio S. , Bornstein Michael M.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the assessment of peri‐implant bone loss and analyze its influencing factors.

Materials and Methods

Clinical and preclinical studies reporting diagnostic outcomes of CBCT imaging of peri‐implant bone loss compared to direct reference measurements were sought by searching five electronic databases, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus, and OpenGrey. QUADAS‐2 criteria were adapted for quality analysis of the included studies. A qualitative synthesis was performed. Two meta‐analysis models (random‐effects and mixed‐effects) summarized the area under receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curve observations reported in the selected studies. The mixed‐effects meta‐analysis model evaluated three possible influencing factors, “defect type,” “defect size,” and “study effect.”

Results

The initial search yielded 3,716 titles, from which 18 studies (13 in vitro and 5 animal) were included. Diagnostic accuracy of CBCT was fair to excellent in detecting in vitro circumferential‐intrabony and fenestration defects, but moderate to low for peri‐implant dehiscences, and tended to be higher for larger defect sizes. Both, over‐ and underestimation of linear measurements were reported for the animal models. The meta‐analyses included 37 AUC observations from eight studies. The random‐effects model showed significant heterogeneity. The mixed‐effects model exhibited also significant but lower heterogeneity, and “defect type” and “study effect” significantly influenced the variability of AUC observations.

Conclusion

In vitro, CBCT performs well in detecting peri‐implant circumferential‐intrabony or fenestration defects but less in depicting dehiscences. Influencing factors due to other site‐related and technical parameters on the diagnostic outcome need to be addressed further in the future studies.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00152 is a potential prognostic biomarker in patients with high‐grade glioma
Authors: Wang Wen , Wu Fan , Zhao Zheng , Wang Kuan‐Yu , Huang Ruo‐Yu , Wang Hao‐Yuan , Lan Qing , Wang Jiang‐Fei , Zhao Ji‐Zong
Published: March 2018

Aims

To investigate the role of LINC00152 in high‐grade glioma (HGG).

Methods

We collected data from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) microarray, CGGA RNA sequencing, and GSE16011 datasets to evaluate the expression and prognostic relationship of LINC00152 in patients with HGGs. A knockdown assay was performed to determine the function of LINC00152 in glioma development and progression in vitro and in vivo.

Results

The expression of LINC00152 was increased with glioma grade, especially in the mesenchymal TCGA subtype. LINC00152 was independently associated with poor prognosis, and the overall survival (OS) of the high expression group was shorter than the low expression group (median OS 14.77 vs 9.65 months; P = 0.0216) in the CGGA microarray dataset. The results were validated in the other 2 datasets. Based on the expression of LINC00152, 4288 (2519 positively; 1769 negatively) probes were extracted to perform a biological process analysis using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery. Positively regulated genes were enriched in immune response, apoptotic process, cell adhesion, and regulation of cell proliferation. The clinical and molecular features of HGG patients indicated that patients in the LINC00152 high expression group tended to display the mesenchymal type, older (≥46 years), isocitrate dehydrogenase1 wild‐type, O(6)‐methylguanine DNA methyltransferase unmethylated, nonchemotherapy, and low karnofsky performance status. Functionally, knockdown of LINC00152 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and increased the sensitivity of chemotherapy in vitro.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that knockdown of LINC00152 could inhibit tumor growth in vivo. LINC00152 could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker in patients with HGG.
ECONOMIC FREEDOM AND INCOME LEVELS ACROSS U.S. STATES: A SPATIAL PANEL DATA ANALYSIS
Authors: Hall Joshua C. , Lacombe Donald J. , Shaughnessy Timothy M.
Published: March 2018

There is a large literature estimating the effect of economic freedom on economic growth or income levels. Most studies examine the relationship between economic freedom and growth or income levels for countries, while a few examine the relationship for U.S. states. Absent in the state‐level literature is consideration of the presence of spatial spillovers affecting the freedom‐income relationship. Neglecting to account for spatial autocorrelation can bias estimation results and therefore inferences drawn. We find evidence of a spatial pattern in real per‐capita gross state product (GSP) that affects nonspatial estimates of the freedom‐income relationship. Taking into account the direct and indirect effects of economic freedom on real per‐capita GSP, we find a 10% increase in economic freedom is associated with a 5% increase in real per‐capita GSP. (JEL E02, O47, R11)
No apparent benefit of preemptive sorafenib therapy in liver transplant recipients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma on explant
Authors: Satapathy Sanjaya K. , Das Kanak , Kocak Mehmet , Helmick Ryan A. , Eason James D. , Nair Satheesh P. , Vanatta Jason M.
Published: March 2018

Background

Sorafenib has shown survival benefits in patients with advanced HCC; however, limited data are available on its role in OLT recipients with advanced HCC in the explant.

Aim

Evaluate the role of preemptive sorafenib therapy on HCC recurrence and survival after OLT with advanced HCC on explant pathology.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the outcome after OLT of all HCC recipients with advanced HCC in the explant pathology from 04/2006 to 12/2012 based on preemptive treatment with sorafenib.

Results

During the observation period, 217 HCC recipients underwent OLT; 50 explants revealed advanced HCC. After exclusion of 5 patients who were lost to follow‐up, 45 LT recipients were finally included for analysis. Recipients were grouped as sorafenib Gr (N = 25) and nonsorafenib Gr (N = 20). Both recurrence‐free survival (RFS) (P = .67) and overall survival were similar between groups (P = .53) on Kaplan‐Meier analysis. Additionally, sorafenib use was neither associated with HCC recurrence‐free survival (HR 0.74, 95% CI [0.32‐1.70]; P = .48) nor overall survival (HR 0.92, 95% CI [0.39‐2.15], P = .84) on multivariate Cox proportional hazard model with sorafenib use as time‐varying covariates.

Conclusion

Preemptive treatment with sorafenib in OLT recipients with high‐risk features in explant does not improve HCC recurrence‐free or overall survival.
Cytomorphology and sonographic features of ectopic thymic tissue diagnosed in paediatric FNA biopsies
Authors: Escobar F. A. , Pantanowitz L. , Picarsic J. L. , Craig F. E. , Simons J. P. , Viswanathan P. A. , Yilmaz S. , Monaco S. E.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Ectopic thymic tissue can arise as an asymptomatic neck mass, which may be detected on imaging studies. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of ectopic thymic tissue in paediatric FNAs and to the correlate clinical, radiological and cytomorphological findings.

Methods

FNAs in children with neck and mediastinal lesions performed between January 2012 and July 2016 were reviewed for cases of ectopic thymus. These were then evaluated and correlated with the cytology findings.

Results

Of 739 FNAs, 13 (1.8%) cases from 11 patients showed ectopic thymic tissue. The targeted lesions were in the thyroid (n = 7), submandibular region (n = 1), superior mediastinum (n = 1) and paratracheal region (n = 1). The most common indication was for microcalcifications concerning for papillary thyroid carcinoma on ultrasound (n = 6). Imaging findings included fusiform lesions with linear and punctuate bright echoes. The cytology evaluation showed small lymphocytes with discohesive epithelioid cells in most cases, and proteinaceous fluid in the cystic case. There were rare macrophages and Hassall's corpuscles. Flow cytometry and/or immunostains were performed in all cases, supporting thymic origin.

Conclusion

Ectopic thymic tissue is rarely present as a neck mass or thyroid nodule on FNA biopsy. The ultrasound imaging findings reveal a well‐defined fusiform lesion with punctate bright echoes that could be misinterpreted as papillary thyroid carcinoma. The aspirates show a small lymphoid population, immunophenotypically compatible with thymic T‐cells, in addition to scattered epithelial cells. Therefore, knowledge of the typical ultrasonographic and cytopathological features can help make a definitive diagnosis and avoid more invasive procedures in paediatric patients.
Telomere length determined by the fluorescence in situ hybridisation distinguishes malignant and benign cells in cytological specimens
Authors: Matsuda Y. , Suzuki A. , Esaka S. , Hamashima Y. , Imaizumi M. , Kinoshita M. , Shirahata H. , Kiso Y. , Kojima H. , Matsukawa M. , Fujii Y. , Ishikawa N. , Aida J. , Takubo K. , Ishiwata T. , Nishimura M. , Arai T.
Published: March 2018

Background

Telomeres are tandem repeats of TTAGGG at the end of eukaryotic chromosomes that play a key role in preventing chromosomal instability. The aim of the present study is to determine telomere length using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) on cytological specimens.

Methods

Aspiration samples (n = 41) were smeared on glass slides and used for FISH.

Results

Telomere signal intensity was significantly lower in positive cases (cases with malignancy, n = 25) as compared to negative cases (cases without malignancy, n = 16), and the same was observed for centromere intensity. The difference in DAPI intensity was not statistically significant. The ratio of telomere to centromere intensity did not show a significant difference between positive and negative cases. There was no statistical difference in the signal intensities of aspiration samples from ascites or pleural effusion (n = 23) and endoscopic ultrasound‐guided FNA samples from the pancreas (n = 18).

Conclusions

The present study revealed that telomere length can be used as an indicator to distinguish malignant and benign cells in cytological specimens. This novel approach may help improve diagnosis for cancer patients.
Predicting distributions, habitat preferences and associated conservation implications for a genus of rare fishes, seahorses (Hippocampus spp.)
Authors: Zhang Xiong , Vincent Amanda C.J.
Published: March 2018

Aim

To identify useful sources of species data and appropriate habitat variables for species distribution modelling on rare species, with seahorses as an example, deriving ecological knowledge and spatially explicit maps to advance global seahorse conservation.

Location

The shallow seas.

Methods

We applied a typical species distribution model (SDM), maximum entropy, to examine the utility of (1) two versions of habitat variables (habitat occurrences vs. proximity to habitats) and (2) three sources of species data: quality research‐grade (RG) data, quality‐unknown citizen science (CS) and museum‐collection (MC) data. We used the best combinations of species data and habitat variables to predict distributions and estimate species–habitat relations and threatened status for seahorse species.

Results

We demonstrated that using “proximity to habitats” and integrating all species datasets (RG, CS and MC) derived models with the highest accuracies among all dataset variations. Based on this finding, we derived reliable models for 33 species. Our models suggested that only 0.4% of potential seahorse range was suitable to more than three species together; seahorse biogeographic epicentres were mainly in the Philippines; and proximity to sponges was an important habitat variable. We found that 12 “Data Deficient” species might be threatened based on our predictions according to IUCN criteria.

Main conclusions

We highlight that using proper habitat variables (e.g., proximity to habitats) is critical to determine distributions and key habitats for low‐mobility animals; collating and integrating quality‐unknown occurrences (e.g., CS and MC) with quality research data are meaningful for building SDMs for rare species. We encourage the application of SDMs to estimate area of occupancy for rare organisms to facilitate their conservation status assessment.
Coordination in theory, coordination in practice: the case of the Clusters
Authors: Clarke Paul Knox , Campbell Leah
Published: March 2018

The atomised nature of the humanitarian system has led to frequent and repeated attempts to coordinate humanitarian activity. Since 2005, some of the best resourced, and arguably most successful, coordination mechanisms have been the humanitarian Clusters, groups of UN (United Nations) and non‐UN actors that engage in sectoral coordination of humanitarian response (such as the provision of healthcare and water) at the global and country level. Nevertheless, it is not clear exactly what ‘coordination’ means in the context of a Cluster. Formal guidance suggests that they should be aiming to create a single, joint strategy to guide the activities of members. Actual experience of the Clusters, however, indicates that looser forms of coordination are more effective. This finding resonates with organisational theory, and with the experience of emergency management professionals beyond the international humanitarian sector. To capitalise fully on the success of the Clusters, policymakers may need to rethink their attitudes to, and expectations of, coordination.
Gamma‐aminobutyric acid levels in cerebrospinal fluid in neuropaediatric disorders
Authors: Cortès‐Saladelafont Elisenda , Molero‐Luis Marta , Cuadras Daniel , Casado Mercedes , Armstrong‐Morón Judith , Yubero Dèlia , Montoya Julio , Artuch Rafael , García‐Cazorla Àngels ,   Institut De Recerca Sant Joan De Déu Working Group
Published: March 2018

Aim

Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a major modulator in brain maturation and its role in many different neurodevelopmental disorders has been widely reported. Although the involvement of GABA in different disorders has been related to its regulatory function as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mature brain, co‐transmitter, and signalling molecule, little is known about its role as a clinical biomarker in neuropaediatric disorders. The aim of this study is to report the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) free‐GABA concentrations in a large cohort of patients (n=85) with different neurological disorders.

Method

GABA was measured in the CSF of neuropaediatric patients using capillary electrophoresis with laser‐induced fluorescence detection. Other neurotransmitters (amino acids and monoamines) were also analysed.

Results

GABA concentrations in CSF were abnormal, with a greater frequency (44%) than monoamines (20%) in neuropaediatric patients compared with our reference values. Although we included a few patients with inborn errors of metabolism, GABA levels in CSF were more frequently abnormal in metabolic disorders than in other nosological groups.

Interpretation

Our work suggests further research into brain GABAergic status in neuropaediatric disorders, which could also lead to new therapeutic strategies.

What this paper adds

Homeostasis of GABA seems more vulnerable than that of monoamines in the developing brain.

The highest GABA levels are found in the primary GABA neurotransmitter disorder SSADH deficiency.

GABA alterations are not specific for any clinical or neuroimaging presentation.
The first 142 amino acids of glutamate decarboxylase do not contribute to epitopes recognized by autoantibodies associated with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Wyatt R. C. , Brigatti C. , Liberati D. , Grace S. L. , Gillard B. T. , Long A. E. , Marzinotto I. , Shoemark D. K. , Chandler K. A. , Achenbach P. , Gillespie K. M. , Piemonti L. , Lampasona V. , Williams A. J. K.
Published: March 2018

Aims

Glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies are the most widely used predictive marker for Type 1 diabetes, but many individuals currently found to be GAD antibody‐positive are unlikely to develop diabetes. We have shown previously that radioimmunoassays using N‐terminally truncated 35S‐GAD65(96–585) offer better disease specificity with similar sensitivity to full‐length 35S‐GAD65(1–585). To determine whether assay performance could be improved further, we evaluated a more radically truncated 35S‐GAD65(143–585) radiolabel.

Methods

Samples from people with recent‐onset Type 1 diabetes (n = 157) and their first‐degree relatives (n = 745) from the Bart's–Oxford family study of childhood diabetes were measured for GAD antibodies using 35S‐labelled GAD65(143–585). These were screened previously using a local radioimmunoassay with 35S‐GAD65(1–585). A subset was also tested by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which performs well in international workshops, but requires 10 times more serum. Results were compared with GAD antibody measurements using 35S‐GAD65(1–585) and 35S‐GAD65(96–585).

Results

Sensitivity of GAD antibody measurement was maintained using 35S‐GAD65(143–585) compared with 35S‐GAD65(1–585) and 35S‐GAD65(96–585). Specificity for Type 1 diabetes was improved compared with 35S‐GAD65(1–585), but was similar to 35S‐GAD65(96–585). Relatives found to be GAD antibody‐positive using these truncated labels were at increased risk of diabetes progression within 15 years, compared with those positive for GAD(1–585) antibody only, and at similar risk to those found GAD antibody‐positive by ELISA.

Conclusions

The first 142 amino acids of GAD65 do not contribute to epitopes recognized by Type 1 diabetes‐associated GAD antibodies. Low‐volume radioimmunoassays using N‐terminally truncated 35S‐GAD65 are more specific than those using full‐length GAD65 and offer practical alternatives to the GAD antibody ELISA for identifying children at increased risk of Type 1 diabetes.
Echocardiographic and clinical markers of left ventricular ejection fraction and moderate or greater systolic dysfunction in left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy
Authors: Arenas Ivan A. , Mihos Christos G. , DeFaria Yeh Doreen , Yucel Evin , Elmahdy Hany M. , Santana Orlando
Published: March 2018

Background

Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is associated with progressive LV systolic dysfunction and dilated cardiomyopathy. We aimed to investigate the echocardiographic and clinical characteristics associated with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and moderate or greater systolic dysfunction in patients with LVNC.

Methods

Our institutional echocardiography database was retrospectively reviewed between 2008 and 2014, and 62 patients with LVNC were identified. Forty‐three (69%) had moderate or greater LV systolic dysfunction (LVEF ≤ 40%) and were compared with 19 (31%) patients with preserved or mildly reduced LVEF (>40%). Linear regression analyses were utilized to identify markers associated with LVEF.

Results

The mean age was 63 ± 17 years and noncompacted‐to‐compacted ratio was 2.3 ± 0.5, and was larger in patients with LVEF ≤ 40% (2.4 vs 2.1; P = .02). Patients with LVEF ≤ 40% were older, had more congestive heart failure, significant QRS interval prolongation, and greater LV remodeling and worse mean global longitudinal strain (GLS). Multivariate regression analysis revealed increased age (standardized regression coefficient (β) = −0.17; P = .04) and QRS duration (β = −0.13; P = .08), congestive heart failure (β = −0.18; P = .04), and worsened GLS (β = −0.40; P = .001) were independently associated with decreased LVEF in the cohort (overall model fit R2 = 0.71; P < .0001). Increased age (β = −0.49; P = .01) and QRS duration (β = −0.50; P = .002), and worsened GLS (β = −0.33; P = .04), were also associated with a lower LVEF in patients with LVEF > 40%.

Conclusions

The independent markers associated with LVEF and moderate or greater LV systolic dysfunction in patients with LVNC, in particular GLS and QRS duration, may detect high‐risk candidates for more aggressive clinical surveillance and medical therapy.
First report onBursaphelenchus sexdentati(Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae) in Israel
Authors: Slonim O. , Bucki P. , Mendel Z. , Protasov A. , Golan O. , Vieira P. , Braun‐Miyara S.
Published: March 2018

This is the first report and characterization ofBursaphelenchus sexdentatiand the first official report of the presence of the genusBursaphelenchusin Israel. This species was isolated fromOrthotomicus erosus(Coleoptera: Scolytinae) found onPinus halepensisin the Judean foothills in Israel. Nematodes collected from insect galleries were reared on fungal cultures and identified based on morphological diagnostic characters for the genusBursaphelenchus. Sequencing analyses of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region, small subunit (SSU) and large subunit (LSU) of ribosomalDNAconfirmed the identification of this nematode species collected from wood and directly from the insect body.
Edge fires drive the shape and stability of tropical forests
Authors: Hébert‐Dufresne Laurent , Pellegrini Adam F. A. , Bhat Uttam , Redner Sidney , Pacala Stephen W. , Berdahl Andrew M.
Published: March 2018

In tropical regions, fires propagate readily in grasslands but typically consume only edges of forest patches. Thus, forest patches grow due to tree propagation and shrink by fires in surrounding grasslands. The interplay between these competing edge effects is unknown, but critical in determining the shape and stability of individual forest patches, as well the landscape‐level spatial distribution and stability of forests. We analyze high‐resolution remote‐sensing data from protected Brazilian Cerrado areas and find that forest shapes obey a robust perimeter–area scaling relation across climatic zones. We explain this scaling by introducing a heterogeneous fire propagation model of tropical forest‐grassland ecotones. Deviations from this perimeter–area relation determine the stability of individual forest patches. At a larger scale, our model predicts that the relative rates of tree growth due to propagative expansion and long‐distance seed dispersal determine whether collapse of regional‐scale tree cover is continuous or discontinuous as fire frequency changes.
Comparison of behavioral, neuroprotective, and proinflammatory cytokine modulating effects exercised by (+)‐cis‐EC and (−)‐cis‐EC stereoisomers in a PTZ‐induced kindling test in mice
Authors: Salgado Paula Regina Rodrigues , da Fonsêca Diogo Vilar , de Melo Cynthia Germoglio Farias , Leite Fagner Carvalho , Alves Adriano Francisco , Ferreira Paula Benvindo , Piuvezam Márcia Regina , de Sousa Damião Pergentino , de Almeida Reinaldo Nóbrega
Published: March 2018

Epoxy‐carvone (EC) has chiral centers that allow generation of stereoisomers, including (+)‐cis‐EC and (−)‐cis‐EC, whose effects in the kindling tests have never been studied. Accordingly, this study aims to comparatively investigate the effect of stereoisomers (+)‐cis‐epoxy‐carvone and (−)‐cis‐epoxy‐carvone on behavioral changes measured in scores, in the levels of cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNFα) and neuronal protection in the face of continuous treatment with pentylenetetrazol. Swiss mice were divided into five groups (n = 10), receiving vehicle, (+) – cis‐EC, (−) – cis‐EC (both at the dose of 30 mg/kg), and diazepam (4 mg/kg). Thirty minutes after the respective treatment was administered to the animals one subconvulsive dose of PTZ (35 mg/kg). Seven subconvulsives treatments were made on alternate days, in which each treatment several parameters were recorded. In the eighth treatment, the animals receiving the highest dose of PTZ (75 mg/kg) and were sacrificed for quantification of cytokines and histopathologic analysis. All drugs were administered by intraperitoneal route. In the kindling test, (+)‐cis‐EC and (−)‐cis‐EC reduced the average scores. The stereoisomer (+)‐cis‐EC decreased levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNFα, whereas comparatively (−)‐cis‐EC did not reduce IL‐1β levels. Histopathological analysis of the mice hippocampi undergoing this methodology showed neural protection for treated with (+)‐cis‐EC. The results suggest that the anticonvulsant effect of (+)‐cis‐EC possibly takes place due to reduction of proinflammatory cytokines involved in the epileptogenic process, besides neuronal protection, yet further investigation of the mechanisms involved is required.
Tauroursodeoxycholic acid produces antidepressant‐like effects in a chronic unpredictable stress model of depression via attenuation of neuroinflammation, oxido‐nitrosative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Lu Xu , Yang Rong‐Rong , Zhang Jin‐Lin , Wang Peng , Gong Yu , Hu Wen‐feng , Wu Yue , Gao Min‐hui , Huang Chao
Published: March 2018

Depression is a common psychiatric disorder with heavy economic and social burdens. Searching new agents with better antidepressant‐like activities is of great significance for depression therapy. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), a clinical drug for gallstone treatment, possesses neuroprotective effects in different brain disorders. However, whether it affects depression remains unclear. We addressed this issue by evaluating the effect of TUDCA on depression induced by chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). Results showed that TUDCA treatment at 200 but not 100 mg/kg prevented the 5 weeks of CUS‐induced increases in the immobile time of C57BL6/J mice in the experiments of forced swimming test and tail suspension test as well as the CUS‐induced decrease in sucrose intake and crossing numbers in the open‐field test, and did not enhance the antidepressant‐like effect of fluoxetine. Attenuation of neuroinflammation may be involved in the antidepressant‐like effect of TUDCA, as TUDCA treatment (200 mg/kg) normalized the levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 in both hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. The increases in inflammasome and microglial activation markers, including interleukin‐β, nod‐like receptor protein 3, and Iba‐1, in CUS‐treated mice were reduced by TUDCA treatment (200 mg/kg). TUDCA treatment (200 mg/kg) also normalized the changes in markers reflecting the oxidative–nitrosative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by CUS, such as nitric oxide, reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, glucose‐regulated protein 78, and C/EBP homologous protein. These results revealed that TUDCA improved the CUS‐induced depression‐like behaviors likely through attenuation of neuroinflammation, oxido‐nitrosative, and ER stress.
The regulatory mechanism of mammalian TRPMLs revealed by cryo‐EM
Authors: Schmiege Philip , Fine Michael , Li Xiaochun
Published: March 2018

Transient receptor potential mucolipin (TRPML) channels are the most recently identified subfamily of TRP channels and have seen a surge of new reports revealing both structural and functional insight. In 2017, several groups published multiple conformations of TRPML channels using cryo‐EM. Similar to other TRP channels, the ML subfamily consists of six transmembrane helices (S1–S6), and a pore region including S5, S6, and two pore helices (PH1 and PH2). However, these reports also reveal distinct structural characteristics of the ML subfamily. Asp residues within the luminal pore may function to control calcium/pH regulation. A synthetic agonist, ML‐SA1, can bind to the pore region of TRPMLs to force a direct dilation of the lower gate. Finally, biophysical and electrophysiological characterizations reveal another natural agonist binding site in the unique domain of TRPMLs, presumably regulating the conformation of the S4–S5 linker to open the channel. This work elucidates the molecular architecture and provides insights into how multiple ligands regulate TRPMLs.
Desmopressin stimulation testing: Response to intravenous and intranasal forms
Authors: McCormick M. C. , Siripong N. , Cooper J. D.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Desmopressin is commonly used to reduce bleeding in patients with mucocutaneous bleeding disorders and is available in both intravenous and intranasal forms. Given the variability in response to desmopressin at an individual level, its effectiveness should be assessed with a test dose prior to being advised for use. At this time, no trial has extensively compared the use of intranasal desmopressin to intravenous desmopressin.

Aims

To determine whether both forms of desmopressin are equally effective in yielding a positive response in laboratory assays in paediatric patients with von Willebrand disease or probable von Willebrand disease.

Methods

We evaluated medical record data for 58 patients who underwent desmopressin stimulation testing in our haematology clinic during a 1‐year period. Data were collected on demographic information and haematologic laboratory assays prior to desmopressin administration and one hour following desmopressin.

Results

There was an absolute increase in von Willebrand antigen to levels appropriate for haemostasis following both forms of desmopressin, although this increase was significantly greater in the intravenous group compared to the intranasal group. There was also a significant absolute increase in Ristocetin Cofactor and Factor VIII levels following desmopressin in both groups.

Conclusion

Both intravenous and intranasal forms of desmopressin produce a positive response during desmopressin stimulation testing and can be used to identify patients for whom this medication would be effective.
Focal, but not global, cerebral ischaemia causes loss of myenteric neurons and upregulation of vasoactive intestinal peptide in mouse ileum
Authors: Cheng Xiaowen , Svensson Martina , Yang Yiyi , Deierborg Tomas , Ekblad Eva , Voss Ulrikke
Published: March 2018

Reduced blood flow to the brain induces cerebral ischaemia, potentially causing central injury and peripheral complications including gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction. The pathophysiology behind GI symptoms is suspected to be neuropathy in the enteric nervous system (ENS), which is essential in regulating GI function. This study investigates if enteric neuropathy occurs after cerebral ischaemia, by analysing neuronal survival and relative numbers of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expressing neurons in mouse ileum after three types of cerebral ischaemia. Focal cerebral ischaemia, modelled by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) and global cerebral ischaemia, modelled with either transient occlusion of both common carotid arteries followed by reperfusion (GCIR) or chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) was performed on C56BL/6 mice. Sham‐operated mice for each ischaemia model served as control. Ileum was collected after 1–17 weeks, depending on model, and analysed using morphometry and immunocytochemistry. For each group, intestinal mucosa and muscle layer thicknesses, neuronal numbers and relative proportions of neurons immunoreactive (IR) for nNOS or VIP were estimated. No alterations in mucosa or muscle layer thicknesses were noted in any of the groups. Loss of myenteric neurons and an increased number of VIP‐IR submucous neurons were found in mouse ileum 7 days after pMCAO. None of the global ischaemia models showed any alterations in neuronal survival or relative numbers of VIP‐ and nNOS‐IR neurons. We conclude that focal cerebral ischaemia and global cerebral ischaemia influence enteric neuronal survival differently. This is suggested to reflect differences in peripheral neuro‐immune responses.
Assessing morphological characteristics of elite cotton lines from different breeding programmes for low temperature and drought tolerance
Authors: Singh B. , Norvell E. , Wijewardana C. , Wallace T. , Chastain D. , Reddy K. R.
Published: March 2018

Cotton breeders in the United States strive to develop region‐specific genotypes adapted to low temperatures and variable soil moistures during early‐season planting. Nine elite upland cotton germplasm (Gossypium hirsutum L.) lines, representing public breeding programmes from nine states across the cotton belt, were evaluated for cold and drought stresses during seed germination and seedling growth stages. Lines were subjected to three treatments, such as low temperature well‐watered (22/14°C, WW), optimal temperature drought stress (30/22°C, DS) and optimal temperature well‐watered (30/22°C, WW; control), to examine genotypic variability for cold and drought tolerance. The treatment including drought stress was irrigated at 50% of the control. Shoot and root traits measured at 25 days after planting were significantly affected by drought and low temperature, where significant genetic variability among lines was observed for both shoot and root parameters. Response indices were developed to quantify variation in the degree of tolerance among the lines to low temperature and drought. Accordingly, OA‐33 was identified as the most low‐temperature‐tolerant line and Acala 1517‐99 as the most drought‐tolerant line. Identification of both cold‐ and drought‐tolerant genotypes suggests existing genotypic variability could provide breeders the opportunity to improve cultivar response to early‐season drought or cold conditions.
Effect of substituting CaO with BaO on the viscosity and structure of CaO‐BaO‐SiO2‐MgO‐Al2O3 slags
Authors: Wang Zhanjun , Sohn Il
Published: March 2018

In this study, the effect of CaO and BaO substitution on the viscosity and structure of CaO‐BaO‐SiO2‐MgO‐Al2O3 slags was investigated. The results showed that the viscosity increased with an increase in the BaO substitution concentration, which was correlated to an increase in the degree of polymerization (DOP) of the slag structural units as the activation energy increased from 207.9 to 263.8 kJ/mol for viscous flow. Deconvolution and area integration of the Raman spectrum of the slag revealed that the ratio of Q3/Q2 (Qi, i is the number of O0 in a [SiO4]‐tetrahedral unit) increased and NBO/Si (nonbridging oxygen per unit silicon atom) decreased with higher BaO content. It was also observed from the 27Al magic angles pinning nuclear magnetic resonance (27Al MAS‐NMR) spectrum that the relative proportion of AlIV increased, while that of AlV decreased because of the decrease in the percentage of nonbridging oxygen (O−), indicating the polymerization of the slag. O1s X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was also carried out to semi‐quantitatively analyze the various types of oxygen anions present in the slag. The XPS results correlated well with the results obtained from the analysis of the Raman and 27Al MAS‐NMR spectra of the slags and its viscous behavior.
The effect of a practice‐based multicomponent intervention that includes health coaching on medication adherence and blood pressure control in rural primary care
Authors: Wu Jia‐Rong , Cummings Doyle M. , Li Quefeng , Hinderliter Alan , Bosworth Hayden B. , Tillman Jimmy , DeWalt Darren
Published: March 2018

Low adherence to anti‐hypertensive medications contributes to worse outcomes. The authors conducted a secondary data analysis to examine the effects of a health‐coaching intervention on medication adherence and blood pressure (BP), and to explore whether changes in medication adherence over time were associated with changes in BP longitudinally in 477 patients with hypertension. Data regarding medication adherence and BP were collected at baseline, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. The intervention resulted in increases in medication adherence (5.75→5.94, P = .04) and decreases in diastolic BP (81.6→76.1 mm Hg, P < .001) over time. The changes in medication adherence were associated with reductions in diastolic BP longitudinally (P = .047). Patients with low medication adherence at baseline had significantly greater improvement in medication adherence and BP over time than those with high medication adherence. The intervention demonstrated improvements in medication adherence and diastolic BP and offers promise as a clinically applicable intervention in rural primary care.
Assessment of two screening tools to identify psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Coates L.C. , Savage L.J. , Chinoy H. , Laws P.M. , Lovell C.R. , Korendowych E. , Mahmood F. , Mathieson H.R. , McGonagle D. , Warren R.B. , Waxman R. , Helliwell P.S.
Published: March 2018

Background

Many patients with psoriasis have undiagnosed psoriatic arthritis. Low specificity is found with many PsA screening tools. A new instrument, the CONTEST questionnaire, was developed utilizing the most discriminative items from existing instruments.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the CONTEST and PEST screening tools.

Methods

People attending secondary care clinics with psoriasis, but not PsA, completed the questionnaires, were assessed for function and quality of life, and had a physical examination. Patients thought to have PsA were compared to those without. The performance of CONTEST and PEST was compared using area under the receiver operating curve (AUC), and sensitivity and specificity at the previously published cut‐offs.

Results

A total of 451 dermatology patients were approached, 35% were reviewed and 27 (17%, 95% CI 12.3–21.7) had unidentified psoriatic arthritis. The sensitivity and specificity (95% CI) of PEST were 0.60 (0.42–0.78)/0.76 (0.69–0.83) and for CONTEST 0.53 (0.34–0.72)/0.71 (0.63–0.79). The confidence limits for the AUC overlapped (AUC for PEST 0.72 (0.61–0.84), for CONTEST 0.66 (0.54–0.77).

Conclusions

PEST and CONTEST questionnaires performed equally well, with no superiority of the new CONTEST tool.
Flow cytometry for assessing the efficacy of interspecific gynogenesis induction in sturgeon
Authors: Lebeda I. , Steinbach C. , Flajšhans M.
Published: March 2018

The efficacy of ploidy analysis for separating progeny of Siberian sturgeon Acipenser baerii after induced gynogenesis was demonstrated using sperm of a paternal species differing in ploidy level from the maternal species. Gynogenesis was induced in tetraploid A. baerii with UV‐C irradiated sperm from the diploid sterlet Acipenser ruthenus and vice‐versa. The success of sperm UV irradiation and diploidy restoration by heat‐shock was estimated based on the ploidy level of progeny, confirmed by microsatellite parentage assignment. Hatching rates of interspecific gynogenotes were comparable with rates reported for gynogenesis induction using sperm and eggs of the same species. Juvenile mortality was similar to that observed in the control hybrids. The efficiency and reliability of this method may foster its use for production of gynogenotes in aquaculture, potentially allowing interspecific gynogenesis to replace intraspecific.
The nutrition impact symptoms (NIS) score detects malnutrition risk in patients admitted to nephrology wards
Authors: MacLaughlin H. L. , Twomey J. , Saunt R. , Blain S. , Campbell K. C. , Emery P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Nutritional screening tools recommended for the general hospitalised population do not always adequately detect malnutrition risk in patients with kidney disease. The present study assessed the validity and reliability of the Nutrition Impact Symptoms (NIS) score as a nutrition screening tool for hospitalised inpatients prefer in nephrology wards.

Methods

Nutritional status was classified using Subjective Global Assessment (SGA). NIS scores were calculated from the total score of responses to questions assessing symptoms impacting upon nutritional status from the patient‐generated SGA. Concurrent validity of NIS score was assessed using a receiver operating characteristic curve to predict malnutrition risk against SGA. Predictive validity was examined against length of hospital stay (LOS) and 30‐day re‐admission using Poisson and logistic regression, respectively. Inter‐rater reliability of NIS scoring between assessors was determined using intraclass correlation.

Results

In 143 patients [90 males; mean (SD) age 57.8 (15.8) years], malnutrition prevalence was 38% (54/143) using SGA (rating B/C). Predicting malnutrition risk with an NIS score of ≥3 had a sensitivity of 0.89 and a specificity of 0.65 (area under the curve = 0.81 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.74–0.88]). For each 1‐point increase in NIS score, the model predicted a 1.9% rise in the risk of an increased LOS (P = 0.002). Thirty‐day re‐admission was not associated with NIS score. Inter‐rater reliability was moderate (mean difference = 0.53; intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.57–0.85).

Conclusions

Nutrition impact symptoms score is a valid stand‐alone nutrition screening tool for identifying malnutrition risk in nephrology inpatients and is associated with LOS.