bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of abdominal muscle composition with prediabetes and diabetes: The CARDIA study
Authors: Granados Andrea , Gebremariam Achamyeleh , Gidding Samuel S. , Terry James G. , Carr John Jeffrey , Steffen Lyn M. , Jacobs David R. , Lee Joyce M.
Published: August 2018

Aim

To evaluate the relationship of abdominal muscle lean tissue and adipose tissue volumes with prediabetes and diabetes.

Research Design and Methods

We measured abdominal muscle composition in 3170 participants in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study who underwent computed tomography (CT) at Year 25 of follow‐up (ages, 43‐55 years). Multinomial regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of CT‐measured intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), lean muscle tissue (lean) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) volumes with diabetes at any point during the CARDIA study, newly detected prediabetes, prior history of prediabetes, and normal glucose tolerance. Models were adjusted for potential confounding factors: age, sex, race, height, smoking status, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, cardiorespiratory fitness and study centre.

Results

Higher IMAT, lean and VAT volumes were all separately associated with a higher prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes. Inclusion of VAT volume in models with both IMAT volume and lean volume attenuated the association of IMAT with both prediabetes and diabetes, but higher lean volume retained its association with prediabetes and diabetes. Individuals in the highest IMAT quartile, coupled with VAT in its lower three quartiles, had a higher prevalence of diabetes, but not of prediabetes, than those with both IMAT and VAT in their respective lower three quartiles. Adjusting for cardiorespiratory fitness did not substantially change the findings.

Conclusion

Higher IMAT volume was associated with a higher prevalence of diabetes even after adjustment for VAT volume. However, further study is warranted to understand the complicated relationship between abdominal muscle and adipose tissues.
The headspace Brief Interventions Clinic: Increasing timely access to effective treatments for young people with early signs of mental health problems
Authors: Schley Carsten , Pace Nicholas , Mann Rhianna , McKenzie Catherine , McRoberts Alison , Parker Alexandra
Published: August 2018

Aim

Timely access to treatment in the early stages of mental illness is pivotal to recovery and prevention of longer‐term disablement. Yet, this can be challenging at times of growing service demands. The headspace Brief Interventions Clinic (BIC) is an innovative treatment model aiming to promote quick access to evidence‐based interventions for young people presenting with early signs of mental disorders.

Methods

The BIC treatment package comprises eight skill‐building and behavioural intervention modules that young people can choose from. Treatment occurs over a maximum of six sessions with graduate students under supervision. Treatment outcomes are compared at baseline and final sessions, with client satisfaction measured at the final session.

Results

Allocation to the BIC occurred within 2 to 3 weeks of initial referral. Most young people (73%) completed their treatment, attending on average four sessions. Significant reductions in overall psychological distress, depressive symptomatology and anxiety severity ratings were observed at completion of treatment, as well as significant improvements in social and occupational functioning. About 91% of young people stated that their outcome expectations had been entirely met and 95% were entirely satisfied with their treatment experience. A strong therapeutic relationship, specific strategies for managing emotions, coping and problem‐solving and a choice of engaging in flexible and modularised content were identified as the most valued experiences by young people.

Conclusion

The BIC might be ideally suited for health care settings aiming to promote timely access to treatments for young people with early signs of mental disorders.
Elevated CO2 and warming cause interactive effects on soil carbon and shifts in carbon use by bacteria
Authors: Carrillo Yolima , Dijkstra Feike , LeCain Dan , Blumenthal Dana , Pendall Elise
Published: August 2018

Accurate predictions of soil C feedbacks to climate change depend on an improved understanding of responses of soil C pools and C use by soil microbial groups. We assessed soil and microbial C in a 7‐year manipulation of CO2 and warming in a semi‐arid grassland. Continuous field isotopic labelling under elevated CO2 further allowed us to study the dynamics of the existing C (Old C) in soil and microbes as affected by warming. Warming reduced soil C under elevated CO2 but had no impact under ambient CO2. Loss of soil C under warming and elevated CO2 was attributed to increased proportional loss of Old C. Warming also reduced the proportion of Old C in microbes, specifically the bacteria, but not the fungi. These findings highlight that warming impacts are C pool and microbial taxa dependent and demonstrate interactive effects of warming and atmospheric CO2 on soil C.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, periictal physiology, and the SUDEP‐7 Inventory
Authors: Odom Nicole , Bateman Lisa M.
Published: August 2018

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a significant public health burden. Epidemiological studies have identified clinical SUDEP risk factors across large populations, but the means to apply this information to individual patients are lacking. The SUDEP‐7 Inventory was developed as a marker of clinical SUDEP risk and has been used in studies of potential SUDEP biomarkers. We retrospectively reviewed clinical data from 16 patients dying of SUDEP and 48 matched living epilepsy controls to determine whether individuals succumbing to SUDEP could be distinguished from living epilepsy controls using the revised SUDEP‐7 Inventory, the absolute number of clinical risk factors as identified by an International League Against Epilepsy meta‐analysis (ILAE score), and physiological characteristics previously associated with SUDEP risk. Mean revised SUDEP‐7 Inventory score was 3.3 ± 2.0 in SUDEP cases and 3.8 ± 2.3 in controls (P = 0.39). Mean ILAE score was 2.4 ± 1.1 in SUDEP cases and 2.6 ± 1.4 in controls (P = 0.62). There were no significant differences in interictal heart rate variability (measured by the root mean square of differences of successive RR intervals), periictal cardiorespiratory dysfunction, and postictal generalized electroencephalographic suppression between the groups. This demonstrates that a reliable instrument for individual SUDEP risk stratification is lacking and highlights the need for improved understanding of SUDEP pathophysiology and individual risk determination.
Application of EMC‐J criterion to fracture prediction of U‐notched polymeric specimens with nonlinear behaviour
Authors: Majidi Hamid Reza , Razavi Nima , Torabi Ali Reza
Published: August 2018

The main purpose of the present research paper is to investigate applicability of a new energy‐based failure prediction model, called EMC‐J criterion, to predict the critical loads of U‐notched polymeric samples having a ductile behaviour and loaded under symmetric 3‐point bending. The evaluated polymeric single edge notch bending samples containing U‐notches failed by considerable plastic deformations around the notch border, making it inappropriate to directly use classic linear elastic‐based formulations. Due to the elastic‐plastic behaviour of the tested polymeric material, EMC‐J criterion is applied to avoid using complex and extremely time‐consuming nonlinear analysis for failure load predictions. Finally, it is shown that EMC‐J criterion can provide a good consistency between the experimental and theoretical results with an average discrepancy of about 10%.
A new method to estimate the plane strain fracture toughness of materials
Authors: Li He Fei , Duan Qi Qiang , Zhang Peng , Qu Rui Tao , Zhang Zhe Feng
Published: August 2018

Although the testing method for fracture toughness KIC has been implemented for decades, the strict specimen size requirements make it difficult to get the accurate KIC for the high‐toughness materials. In this study, different specimen sizes of high‐strength steels were adopted in fracture toughness testing. Through the observations on the fracture surfaces of the KIC specimen, it is shown that the fracture energy can be divided into 2 distinct parts: (1) the energy for flat fracture and (2) the energy for shear fracture. According to the energy criterion, the KIC values can be acquired by small‐size specimens through derivation. The results reveal that the estimated toughness value is consistent with the experimental data. The new method would be widely applied to predict the fracture toughness of metallic materials with small‐size specimens.
Postprandial hypotension in older people receiving tube feeding through gastrostomy
Authors: Sato Koichi , Sugiura Tomonori , Ohte Nobuyuki , Dohi Yasuaki
Published: August 2018

Aim

Postprandial hypotension (PPH) is recognized as a clinical problem, constituting a potential risk for cerebral and cardiovascular events, as well as mortality. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that PPH is prevented by slowing the infusion rate of enteral nutrition through tube feeding and by avoiding the administration of antihypertensive drugs just before the start of tube feeding.

Methods

Participants were older people receiving tube feeding through gastrostomy who used a geriatric health services facility (n = 12; mean age 79.8 years). Changes in blood pressure during and after enteric nutrient infusion lasting for 1 or 2 h were investigated with or without the administration of antihypertensive drugs just before the start of tube feeding.

Results

When enteric nutrient was infused for 1 h, after the administration of antihypertensive drugs, nine of 12 participants showed PPH with a maximal reduction in systolic blood pressure of 37.6 ± 6.5 mmHg. Although PPH was not prevented by avoiding drug administration before infusion (maximal blood pressure reduction 30.2 ± 5.0 mmHg) or by extending the infusion time to 2 h (26.5 ± 7.5 mmHg), the combination of the two actions prevented PPH and reduced the postprandial fall in systolic blood pressure to 17.6 ± 5.8 mmHg.

Conclusions

The prevalence of PPH in older people receiving tube feeding was 75%. Slowing the enteric nutrient infusion rate combined with avoiding antihypertensive drugs just before the infusion was useful for preventing PPH. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1474–1478.
Expertise and the PhD: Between depth and a flat place
Authors: Barnacle Robyn , Schmidt Christine , Cuthbert Denise
Published: August 2018

Expertise is under sustained interrogation. We see it in so‐called edu‐scepticism and pessimism about graduates’ apparently diminishing employment prospects, challenges to the role of Higher Education institutions as arbiters of knowledge and post‐truth rhetoric more broadly. This paper examines how the PhD is being discursively positioned in this context. We ask what these changing conceptions of expertise, education and work mean for how PhD‐level expertise is understood. Drawing on a range of sources, from the scholarly to the wider media, we draw together five exemplar models of expertise to expose the transforming ratio between generalist, transferable skills and specialist knowledge. The evident diminution of specialisation raises numerous issues for the PhD as it is increasingly called upon to serve multiple and potentially contradictory needs: an innovation society on the one hand and the discipline on the other. Reconciling the tension between depth and breadth is an important issue for a degree whose hallmark is—or at least has been—depth.
Evaluating digital libraries: a systematised review
Authors: Rahimi Alireza , Soleymani Mohammad R. , Hashemian Alireza , Hashemian Mohammad R. , Daei Azra
Published: August 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the models and methods for evaluating digital libraries.

Methods

Springer, Science Direct, ProQuest, Emerald, Wiley, LISTA, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, Magiran (Persian), Irandoc (Persian), SID (Persian) and Noormags (Persian) databases were searched systematically based on the defined criteria. Selection criteria included full‐text articles and dissertations published in English and Persian languages in 2004–2017. The final included articles (n = 64) were reviewed, selected and analysed by group discussions.

Results

The results of analysing 64 included articles for this systematised review specified that the evaluation of digital libraries is mostly focused on the service quality aspect, and DigiQual was the most frequently used model. Few studies have evaluated digital libraries in the health sector. The researcher developed questionnaire is the most frequently used method to evaluate digital libraries.

Conclusion

Because there are fewer studies of digital libraries evaluation in the health sector, the specific features of health digital libraries should be addressed by librarians and health digital library designers to develop specific models.
Defining and validating a Body Skin Discomfort Index (BSDI)
Authors: Segot‐Chicq E. , Salah S. , Jullien M. , Portal N. , Deschodt C. , Gagnebien D.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To understand the drivers of body skin discomfort and to validate a new index to assess its severity. This index should be sensitive enough to capture changes in response to treatment.

Methods

Previous consumer studies suggested seven potential main dimensions behind skin discomfort. Four of them refer to self‐declarations (stinging, itching, warming and tightening), whereas three can be assessed by a dermatologist (skin dryness, redness and desquamation). Intensity and frequency or extent of these items were measured using 0–9 ordinal scales. To generate the data for validation of a new index based on the 7 items, a group of 49 subjects complaining of skin discomfort was followed up for 5 weeks: 1‐week without product application to check reproducibility, followed by 4 weeks of treatment to evaluate sensitivity to change. Items not significantly reported at baseline or with changes because of treatment not sufficiently correlated with the overall change measured by the index were discarded. A control group of 49 subjects presenting no discomfort at all was also included to check the capacity of our index to discriminate both groups. The final index (Body Skin Discomfort Index, BSDI) was normalized to facilitate the clinical interpretation of the results.

Results

After discarding warming and skin redness, the BSDI is finally a five‐dimension score calculated as follows: (TI + TF + SI + SF + ItI + ItF + DI + DE + DqI + DqE) 9 9/90 where T, S, It, D and Dq refer to tightness, stinging, itching, dryness, desquamation respectively, and I, F or E refers to intensity, frequency or extent. The final BSDI score displayed a good capacity to discriminate people with skin discomfort from people with ‘normal skin’, a good reproducibility (intraclass coefficient correlation ICC = 0.85) and a good sensitivity to detect change because of treatment (Difference vs. Baseline of 2.63 on a 0–9 scale).

Conclusion

The developed index, BSDI, is a reliable way to address the measurement issue of the multidimensional skin discomfort syndrome. It thus should simplify the evaluation of cosmetic products effect and helps to compare products dedicated to body cleansing.
Laser coating of bioactive glasses on bioimplant titanium alloys
Authors: Kuo Po‐Hsuen , Joshi Sameehan S. , Lu Xiaonan , Ho Yee‐Hsien , Xiang Ye , Dahotre Narendra B. , Du Jincheng
Published: August 2018

Laser‐assisted material processing is a promising field for new material synthesis. This study explores the feasibility of using laser as a tool to synthesize SiO2‐Na2O‐CaO‐P2O5 bioactive glass coatings on Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy for bio‐implant application. Various laser processing conditions were explored to investigate their effects on coating characteristics. Detailed microstructure and elemental distribution on the top surface and in the cross‐sectional region of the bioactive glass‐coated alloy were investigated by scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Bio‐mineralization in simulated body fluid for both representative‐coated samples and uncoated control sample for comparison was carried out. The thermokinetic effects during laser processing were simulated using a multi‐physics finite element model. The results demonstrated synthesis of bioactive glass coating on the metal substrate with local segregation of Na, P, and Si elements and considerable dilution of Al and Ti in the coating from the alloy substrate impacted the bioactivity of the coating. Although the observations suggest that the laser processing is a promising method in applying bioactive glasses coatings, further efforts are warranted to optimize laser processing conditions to produce adherent coating while retaining its bioactivity.
A move in the Right Direction? The Model Law against Trafficking in Persons and the ILO Operational Indicators
Authors: Vijeyarasa Ramona
Published: August 2018

While the Palermo Protocol sought to offer the global community the first‐ever definition of trafficking and the parameters for who constitutes a victim, the result was an inaccurate, ill‐defined and cumbersome definition that fails to match the realities of the phenomenon. Since 2000, two other international instruments were drafted: the UNODC Model Law against Trafficking in Persons and the ILO Operational Indicators on Trafficking in Human Beings. This article navigates through various hypothetical scenarios to demonstrate the limitations of the Palermo Protocol in accommodating the autonomy exercised by victims of trafficking in the process of migrating into exploitative work and the more accurate picture of the victim offered by these newer instruments. By identifying the strengths in international law when it comes to trafficking and the problems that remain, this article offers potential solutions to how international law can better reflect trafficking and victimhood.
Impact of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging on heart failure patients referred to a tertiary advanced heart failure unit: improvements in diagnosis and management
Authors: Lum Ying H. , McKenzie Scott , Brown Martin , Hamilton‐Craig Christian
Published: August 2018

Background

The clinical use of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in Australian heart failure (HF) patients has limited evidence.

Aim

To examine how CMR, compared with routine echocardiography, affects the diagnosis and management of patients with HF.

Methods

Single‐centre retrospective study of HF patients newly referred to the Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant unit at The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane. Between January 2010 and December 2014, all patients clinically referred for both CMR and echocardiography in the workup of HF were analysed. Imaging results, electronic records and medical charts were reviewed for final diagnosis and changes in clinical management.

Results

A total of 114 new HF referrals was included. Evaluation of HF of uncertain aetiology (70%) was the most common indication for CMR. In 20% of cases, CMR led to a completely new diagnosis or diagnostic confirmation of suspicions raised by echocardiography. Clinical decision‐making was altered in 48%, with the greatest impact on decisions regarding revascularisation. Overall, CMR had a significant impact on 50% of patients. In a multivariable model, the only independent variable significantly associated with clinical impact was the presence/absence of late gadolinium enhancement (P < 0.001). Importantly, body mass index, echocardiography image quality and the presence of sinus rhythm did not show statistical significance in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

CMR makes a substantial contribution to both the diagnosis and management of HF patients over and above standard echocardiography. This study provides evidence of its clinical utility in the HF population in Australia and supports the role of CMR in the routine assessment of this cohort.
Coenzyme Q10 in acute influenza
Authors: Chase Maureen , Cocchi Michael N. , Liu Xiaowen , Andersen Lars W. , Holmberg Mathias J. , Donnino Michael W.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

The goal of this investigation was to determine if acute influenza infection is associated with depletion of CoQ10 compared to healthy controls and to determine any associations between CoQ10 levels and illness severity and inflammatory biomarkers.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed serum CoQ10 concentrations of patients with acute influenza enrolled in a randomized clinical trial prior to study drug administration. Patients were enrolled at a single urban tertiary care center over 3 influenza seasons (December 27, 2013 to March 31, 2016). Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare CoQ10 levels between influenza patients and healthy controls. Correlations with inflammatory biomarkers and severity of illness were assessed using Spearman correlation coefficient.

Results

We analyzed CoQ10 levels from 50 patients with influenza and 29 controls. Overall, patients with acute influenza had lower levels of CoQ10 (.53 μg/mL, IQR .37‐.75 vs .72, IQR .58‐.90, P = .004). Significantly more patients in the influenza group had low CoQ10 levels (<.5 μg/mL) compared to controls (48% vs 7%, P < .001). Among influenza patients, there were significant but weak correlations between CoQ10 levels and IL‐2 (r = −.30, P = .04), TNF‐alpha (r = −.35, P = .01) and VEGF (r = .38, P = .007), but no correlation with IL‐6, IL‐10, VCAM or influenza severity of illness score (all P > .05).

Conclusions

We found that CoQ10 levels were significantly lower in patients with acute influenza infection and that these levels had significant although weak correlations with several inflammatory biomarkers.
Prevention of hypergranulation tissue after gastrostomy tube placement: A randomised controlled trial of hydrocolloid dressings
Authors: León Astrid H , Hebal Ferdynand , Stake Christine , Baldwin Kerry , Barsness Katherine A
Published: August 2018

Hypergranulation tissue formation is a common complication after gastrostomy tube (G‐tube) placement, occurring in 44%–68% of children. Hydrocolloid dressings are often used in the treatment of hypergranulation tissue but have not been studied for the prevention of postoperative hypergranulation tissue. An institutional review board (IRB)‐approved, prospective, randomised study was performed in paediatric patients who underwent G‐tube placement at a single, large children's hospital from January 2011 to November 2016. After placement, patients were randomly assigned to (1) standard postoperative G‐tube care, (2) standard hydrocolloid G‐tube dressing, or (3) silver‐impregnated hydrocolloid G‐tube dressing, and the incidences of postoperative hypergranulation tissue formation, tube dislodgement, infection, and emergency department use were compared. A total of 171 patients were enrolled; 128 patients (75%) had at least 4 months of follow up and were included in the analyses. Eighty‐nine patients (69.5%) developed hypergranulation tissue during the postoperative period, with no significant differences in incidence among the three treatment arms. Of those who developed hypergranulation tissue, 46 (56%) visited the emergency department, compared with 6 of the 39 patients (19%) who did not develop hypergranulation tissue. Hydrocolloid dressings (standard or silver‐impregnated) do not prevent the development of hypergranulation tissue or other complications after G‐tube placement in paediatric patients.
Pharmacological characterization of hetrombopag, a novel orally active human thrombopoietin receptor agonist
Authors: Xie Chengying , Zhao Huajun , Bao Xubin , Fu Haoyu , Lou Liguang
Published: August 2018

Nonpeptide thrombopoietin receptor (TPOR/MPL) agonists, such as eltrombopag, have been used to treat thrombocytopenia of various aetiologies. Here, we investigated the pharmacological properties of hetrombopag, a new orally active small‐molecule TPOR agonist, in preclinical models. Hetrombopag specifically stimulated proliferation and/or differentiation of human TPOR‐expressing cells, including 32D‐MPL and human hematopoietic stem cells, with low nanomolar EC50 values through stimulation of STAT, PI3K and ERK signalling pathways. Notably, hetrombopag effectively up‐regulated G1‐phase–related proteins, including p‐RB, Cyclin D1 and CDK4/6, normalized progression of the cell cycle, and prevented apoptosis by modulating BCL‐XL/BAK expression in 32D‐MPL cells. Moreover, hetrombopag and TPO acted additively in stimulating TPOR‐dependent signalling, promoting cell viability, and preventing apoptosis. Orally administered hetrombopag specifically promoted the viability and growth of 32D‐MPL cells in hollow fibres implanted into nude mice with much higher potency than that of the well‐known TPOR agonist, eltrombopag, in association with activation of TPOR‐dependent signal transduction in vivo. Taken together, our findings indicate that, given its favourable pharmacological characteristics, hetrombopag may represent a new, orally active, small‐molecule TPOR agonist for patients with thrombocytopenia.
Theranostic nanosensitizers for highly efficient MR/fluorescence imaging‐guided sonodynamic therapy of gliomas
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Zhou Meijun , Sheng Zonghai , Chen Yu , Yeh Chih‐Kuang , Chen Wenting , Liu Jia , Liu Xin , Yan Fei , Zheng Hairong
Published: August 2018

Glioma is the most frequent primary brain tumour of the central nervous system. Its high aggressiveness and deep‐seated brain lesion make it a great challenge to develop a non‐invasive, precise and effective treatment approach. Here, we report a multifunctional theranostic agent that can integrate imaging and therapy into a single nano‐platform for imaging‐guided sonodynamic therapy (SDT). The SDT agents were fabricated by encapsulation of sinoporphyrin sodium (DVDMS) chelating with manganese ions into nanoliposomes (DVDMS‐Mn‐LPs). DVDMS‐Mn‐LPs are physiologically stable and biologically compatible, and they can produce singlet oxygen upon ultrasound irradiation to kill cancer cells. Both cell and animal studies demonstrated that SDT with DVDMS‐Mn‐LPs can significantly improve the antitumour growth efficiency even in the presence of skull. In addition, DVDMS‐Mn‐LPs are good for MR and fluorescence imaging. Thus, DVDMS‐Mn‐LPs reported here may provide a promising strategy for imaging‐guided modality for glioma treatment.
Identification of a GNE homozygous mutation in a Han‐Chinese family with GNE myopathy
Authors: Wu Yuan , Yuan Lamei , Guo Yi , Lu Anjie , Zheng Wen , Xu Hongbo , Yang Yan , Hu Pengzhi , Gu Shaojuan , Wang Bingqi , Deng Hao
Published: August 2018

GNE myopathy is a rare, recessively inherited, early adult‐onset myopathy, characterized by distal and proximal muscle degeneration which often spares the quadriceps. It is caused by mutations in the UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine 2‐epimerase/N‐acetylmannosamine kinase gene (GNE). This study aimed to identify the disease‐causing mutation in a three‐generation Han‐Chinese family with members who have been diagnosed with myopathy. A homozygous missense mutation, c.1627G>A (p.V543M) in the GNE gene co‐segregates with the myopathy present in this family. A GNE myopathy diagnosis is evidenced by characteristic clinical manifestations, rimmed vacuoles in muscle biopsies and the presence of biallelic GNE mutations. This finding broadens the GNE gene mutation spectrum and extends the GNE myopathy phenotype spectrum.
A novel, homozygous nonsense variant of the CDHR1 gene in a Chinese family causes autosomal recessive retinal dystrophy by NGS‐based genetic diagnosis
Authors: Fu Jiewen , Ma Lu , Cheng Jingliang , Yang Lisha , Wei Chunli , Fu Shangyi , Lv Hongbin , Chen Rui , Fu Junjiang
Published: August 2018

Retinal dystrophy is an inherited, heterogeneous, chronic and progressive disorder of visual functions. The mutations of patients with autosomal recessive retinal retinopathy cone‐and‐rod dysfunction and macular dystrophy have not been well described in the Chinese population. In this study, a three‐generation Chinese retinal dystrophy family was recruited. Ophthalmic examinations were performed. Targeted next generation sequencing (TGS) was used to identify causative genes, and Sanger sequencing was conducted to verify candidate mutations and co‐segregation. Reverse transcription (RT)‐PCR was applied to investigate the spatial and temporal expression patterns of cdhr1 gene in mouse. A novel, homozygous, deleterious and nonsense variant (c.T1641A; p.Y547*) in the CDHR1 gene was identified in the family with autosomal recessive retinal dystrophy, which was co‐segregated with the clinical phenotypes in this family. RT‐PCR analysis revealed that cdhr1 is ubiquitously expressed in eye, particularly very high expression in retina; high expression in lens, sclera, and cornea; and high expression in brain. In conclusion, our study is the first to indicate that the novel homozygous variant c.T1641A (p.Y547*) in the CHDR1 gene might be the disease‐causing mutation for retinal dystrophy in our patient, extending its mutation spectrums. These findings further the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this disease and provide new insights for diagnosis as well as new implications for genetic counselling.
Violence exposure in an urban city: A GxE interaction with aggressive and impulsive behaviors
Authors: Musci Rashelle J. , Bettencourt Amie F. , Sisto Danielle , Maher Brion , Masyn Katherine , Ialongo Nicholas S.
Published: August 2018

Background

Previous research has demonstrated a reciprocal relationship between community violence exposure and disruptive behavior problems among youth. No study to date, however, has explored the potential interaction between violence exposure in early adolescence and genetics.

Methods

We explore the gene x environment interaction's impact on teacher‐rated aggressive and impulsive behaviors. Violence exposure during the middle school years was assessed using self‐report. Genetic data collection occurred in emerging adulthood. A polygenic score was created using findings from a conduct disorder symptomatology genome‐wide association study.

Results

Three longitudinal classes of teacher reported aggressive and impulsive behavior were identified. We found a significant relationship between violence exposure and class membership. There was a significant GxE interaction, such that those with below average levels of the polygenic score and who were exposed to violence were more likely to be in the moderately high aggressive and impulsive class as compared to the no to low class.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the influence of genetic risk together with violence exposure on adolescent problem behavior. Although youth may have little control over the environments in which they live, interventions can and should focus on helping all youth.
Does the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) underestimate the disease‐specific burden of psoriasis patients?
Authors: Langenbruch A. , Radtke M.A. , Gutknecht M. , Augustin M.
Published: August 2018

Background

The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) is the most frequently used health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument for skin diseases. According to the DLQI instructions, the responses ‘not relevant’ and ‘my skin problem has not at all affected this aspect of life’ (‘not at all’) have to be scored as 0 = no HRQoL impairments.

Objective

The aim of this study was to estimate potential bias of DLQI measurements for patients with psoriasis based on items considered to be not relevant.

Methods

One thousand two hundred forty‐three patients with psoriasis were surveyed in a cross‐sectional study. Disease severity (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, PASI) and subjective health state (EuroQoL Visual Analogue Scale, EQ VAS) were compared per DLQI item between patients who answered the respective question ‘not relevant’ and those who answered ‘not at all’.

Results

Patients who declared a DLQI item to be not relevant showed a higher disease severity and a lower health state.

Conclusion

Results indicate that patients who declare a DLQI item to be not relevant have a higher disease‐related burden than those who do not feel affected by their psoriasis in the same aspect of life. If aspects of life are considered to be not relevant due to high disease burden, this should be reflected by a HRQoL instrument.
Overcoming Reluctance to Accept Home‐Based Support from an Older Adult Perspective
Authors: Lindquist Lee A. , Ramirez‐Zohfeld Vanessa , Forcucci Chris , Sunkara Priya , Cameron Kenzie A.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To understand older adult perceptions about accepting help at home, in particular fears related to potential loss of independence.

Design

Qualitative focus groups.

Setting

Rural, suburban, and urban areas of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Chicago, Illinois.

Participants

Community‐dwelling adults aged 65 and older (N=68).

Measurements

Participants discussed decision‐making, reluctance to accept home‐based care, barriers, and resources that might affect remaining in the home. Three independent coders used constant comparative analysis to interpret results.

Results

Analysis revealed that reluctance to accept home‐based support was associated with concerns over inability to complete tasks, perceptions of being burdensome to others, lack of trust in others, and lack of control. To overcome these concerns, some participants reframed the concept of independence to be “interdependence,” with people continually depending on each other throughout their lives. Subjects noted that, even if one becomes more limited over time, the recognition that one is still contributing something meaningful to society is important to overcoming refusal of home assistance. Another strategy presented to overcome negative perceptions of accepting assistance in the home was the recognition that helping someone who is in need may engender positive emotions in those providing the help.

Conclusion

Older adults perceived multiple reasons for refusing home‐based assistance and offered potential strategies to overcome this reluctance. Addressing the reasons and promoting strategies to accept home‐based support may lead older adults to have fewer unmet home‐based needs, enabling them to remain safely in their homes.
Effect of Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis on Outcomes of Individuals Aged 80 and Older
Authors: Suzuki Atsuko , Tajiri Kazuko , Ishizu Tomoko , Nakayama Mio , Hoshi Tomoya , Suzuki Seiichi , Hatsutori Mikiko , Sato Noriko , Takayama Shingo , Kawano Mikihiko , Aonuma Kazutaka , Nogami Akihiko
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To examine the effect of asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) on mortality late in life.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Large medical center.

Participants

Asymptomatic adults aged 80 and older (mean age 86 ± 4; N=1,060, n=569 women) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF; > 50%); 927 (87.5%) with no AS, 70 (6.6%) with nonsevere AS, and 63 (5.9%) with severe AS.

Measurements

Information was collected on demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and laboratory and echocardiographic data. Survival was assessed according to longest follow‐up available.

Results

During a mean follow‐up of 2.2 ± 2.3 years, there were 203 (19%) deaths, 51 of which were from cardiovascular causes. Four‐year estimates of survival were 72% for no AS, 58% for nonsevere AS, and 23% for severe AS (p<.001). Univariable analysis showed that asymptomatic severe AS was significantly associated with greater risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR)=3.06, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.96–4.58, p<.001). After adjustment for age, sex, LVEF, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease, and coronary artery disease, asymptomatic severe AS was an independent predictor of all‐cause mortality (HR=3.16, 95% CI=1.97–4.88, p<.001).

Conclusion

Asymptomatic severe AS has a major effect on prognosis even in very old adults.
ZmOST1 mediates abscisic acid regulation of guard cell ion channels and drought stress responses
Authors: Wu Qiqi , Wang Mei , Shen Jianlin , Chen Donghua , Zheng Yu , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2018

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) is an important mediator in the drought response, participating in, among other processes, stomatal movements. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the serine/threonine protein kinase, OST1, regulates this response, but the function of its maize homolog has yet to be established. Here, we isolated ZmOST1 and show that its encoded protein indeed acts to regulate guard cell movement. ZmOST1 was ubiquitously expressed throughout the plant, being highly expressed in guard cells, and inducible both by exogenous ABA and water stress. Transient expression of a ZmOST1‐GFP fusion protein, in maize mesophyll protoplasts, indicated its subcellular localization in the cytoplasm and nucleus. A Zmost1 loss‐of‐function mutant exhibited reduced sensitivity to ABA‐activated slow anion channels in maize guard cells, and reduced drought tolerance. Constitutive expression of ZmOST1, in an A. thaliana ost1‐1 mutant rescued the phenotype with respect both to the sensitivity of guard cell slow anion currents to ABA treatment and stomatal closure. Our findings indicate a positive regulatory role for ZmOST1 in guard cell ABA signaling and drought response in maize plants.
Obesity and recurrent miscarriage: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cavalcante Marcelo B. , Sarno Manoel , Peixoto Alberto B. , Araujo Júnior Edward , Barini Ricardo
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study is to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis on the relationship between excess weight and risk of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and to highlight the common immunological mechanisms of these two conditions. The PubMed and MEDLINE databases were searched for publications in English available as of November 2017. The search terms used were ‘recurrent pregnancy loss’, ‘body mass index’ (BMI), ‘overweight’ and ‘obesity’. For calculation of the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for miscarriage in different BMI groups, RevMan software was used (Review Manager, Version 5.3.5 for Windows; The Cochrane Collaboration). In total, 100 publications including the search terms were identified. Six studies were included for qualitative analysis, and two studies were included for quantitative analysis (meta‐analysis). The association between excess weight and RPL was significant (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.05–1.70; P = 0.02). The isolated analyses of the groups of obese and overweight women revealed an association only between obesity and RPL (OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.24–2.47; P = 0.001). The data available in the current literature revealed that obese women with a history of RPL have a high risk of future pregnancy losses, a risk which was not found among overweight women.
Competition in career tournaments: Investigating the joint impact of trait competitiveness and competitive psychological climate on objective and subjective career success
Authors: Spurk Daniel , Keller Anita C. , Hirschi Andreas
Published: August 2018

This study investigates the joint impact of trait competitiveness (i.e., the enjoyment of interpersonal competition and the desire to win and be better than others) and competitive psychological climate (i.e., the degree to which employees perceive organizational rewards as contingent upon comparisons of their performance against that of their peers) on objective and subjective career success. Based on tournament and person–environment fit theory, we assumed that the positive effects of trait competitiveness on different indicators of objective (i.e., salary, promotions) and subjective (i.e., career satisfaction, internal marketability, and meaningful work) career success are stronger under conditions of a highly competitive psychological climate. Moderated regression analyses using data from a 6‐month time‐lagged study of 340 employees working in diverse occupational fields in their early careers revealed joint effects of the two competition variables. For both objective and subjective career success, the effect of trait competitiveness was strengthened under conditions of a highly competitive psychological climate. We discuss the results by integrating theoretical reasoning from a tournament and person–environment fit perspective on the attainment of career success.

Practitioner points

Organizations should be aware that competitive environments, and specifically their related perceptions, are only beneficial for some employees’ career success.

Within perceived highly competitive organizational contexts, personnel selection and development should consider competitive traits of employees when deciding about hiring and career planning.

Career counsellors may consider perceived organizational climates and competitive personal characteristics when objective career success and subjective career success are of topic in the counselling process.
Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft tissue infections in young people in custody in New South Wales
Authors: Haysom Leigh , Cross Melanie , Anastasas Rebecca , Hampton Stephen , Harris Marilyn , Sneddon Kimberley
Published: August 2018

Aim

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are problematic for incarcerated adolescents but have not been previously researched.

Methods

This was a 2‐year prospective study of all New South Wales Juvenile Custodial Centres involving incarcerated youth aged 12–20 years. The main outcomes measured were MRSA SSTIs, MRSA molecular subtypes and associations with MRSA infection. Variables included age, gender, SSTI site and type, Indigenous status, incarceration time, lifetime incarcerations, intravenous drug use, overweight/obesity, recent antibiotic use and health centre presentations.

Results

From February 2013 to January 2015, there were 77 SSTIs (92.2% male, 59.2% Indigenous, mean age 16.9 years). The majority (77.9%) were collections, mostly on the lower limb (44.2%), and 33 (42.9%) isolates were MRSA; 94% were Panton–Valentine leukocidin positive. This represents 11 SSTIs per 1000 custodial admissions, and 4.7 MRSA SSTIs per 1000 custodial admissions. Independent associations with MRSA SSTI (vs. non‐MRSA SSTI) were Indigenous status (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 5.92, P < 0.001), presenting with a collection (AOR 18.29, P < 0.001) and recent antibiotic use (AOR 3.62, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Incarcerated Australian youth have high rates of MRSA SSTIs, comparable to rates in US adult inmates, but with different molecular subtypes. At particular risk of MRSA infection are Indigenous youth, those with recent antibiotic use and those presenting with a collection. Many MRSA infections present at custodial admission, making surveillance and containment important, along with avoidance of unnecessary antibiotics and hand hygiene. Panton–Valentine leukocidin‐positive MRSA predominates and is known for causing flu‐associated necrotising pneumonia. Albeit a rare outcome, the seasonal influenza vaccination should be mandatory for youth in custody and custodial staff.
Comparing monovalent and combination hepatitis B vaccine outcomes in children delivered by mothers with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Lee Le Y , Chan Si M , Ong Christina , M Aw Marion , Wong Franco , Saw Sharon , Lee Guan H , Thoon Koh C , Phua Kong B
Published: August 2018

Aim

We compared the vaccine effectiveness of monovalent and combination hepatitis B vaccine regimens in infants born to chronic hepatitis B carrier mothers.

Methods

An observational cohort of neonates was recruited over 78 months from two public hospital maternity units in Singapore. We enrolled term infants, born to chronic hepatitis B surface antigen‐positive mothers regardless of their hepatitis Be antigen status, who completed the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination programme in Singapore. Infants born to mothers on antiviral therapy, or with concurrent hepatitis C or human immunodeficiency virus infection were excluded. All infants received hepatitis B immunoglobulin at birth. One group received three doses of monovalent hepatitis B vaccine (0, 1, 6 months) (regimen A). The other group received two doses of monovalent vaccine, followed by one dose combination vaccine DTaP‐IPV‐Hib‐HBV (0, 1, 6 months) (regimen B). Vaccine effectiveness was determined by immunoprophylaxis failure leading to HBV vertical transmission. Immunogenicity was assessed by hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs) levels at 9 months of age.

Results

Total of 177 term neonates received regimen A and 115 received regimen B. Immunoprophylaxis failure rate was low, 2.3 and 2.6% (P = 1.00) in regimen A and B, respectively. Mean anti‐HBs titres were similar at 643 ± 374 and 561 ± 396 IU/L (P = 0.08) for regimen A and B, respectively.

Conclusion

Hepatitis B vaccine regimens using monovalent or combination vaccine for the third dose showed similarly high vaccine effectiveness and low immunoprophylaxis failure rate in term infants born to chronic hepatitis B carrier mothers.
Employment insecurity and sleep disturbance: Evidence from 31 European countries
Authors: Mai Quan D. , Hill Terrence D. , Vila‐Henninger Luis , Grandner Michael A.
Published: August 2018

For nearly half a century, jobs have become increasingly characterized by employment insecurity. We examined the implications for sleep disturbance with cross‐sectional data from the European Working Conditions Survey (2010). A group of 24,553 workers between the ages of 25 and 65 years in 31 European countries were asked to indicate whether they suffered from “insomnia or general sleep difficulties” in the past 12 months. We employed logistic regression to model the association between employment insecurity and sleep disturbance for all countries combined and each individual country. For all countries combined, employment insecurity increased the odds of reporting insomnia or general sleep difficulties in the past 12 months. Each unit increase in employment insecurity elevated the odds of sleep disturbance by approximately 47%. This finding was remarkably consistent across 27 of 31 European countries, including Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and UK. These results persisted with adjustments for age, gender, immigrant status, household size, partnership status, number of children, child care, elder care, education, earner status, precarious employment status, workplace sector, workplace tenure and workplace size. Employment insecurity was unrelated to sleep disturbance in four European countries: Malta, Poland, Portugal and Romania. Our research continues recent efforts to reveal the human costs associated with working in neoliberal postindustrial labour markets. Our analyses contribute to the external validity of previous research by exploring the impact of employment insecurity across European countries.