bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective techniques for changing physical activity and healthy eating intentions and behaviour: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: McDermott Máirtín S. , Oliver Madalyn , Iverson Don , Sharma Rajeev
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to review the evidence on the impact of a change in intention on behaviour and to identify (1) behaviour change techniques (BCTs) associated with changes in intention and (2) whether the sameBCTs are also associated with changes in behaviour.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to identify interventions that produced a significant change in intention and assessed the impact of this change on behaviour at a subsequent time point. Each intervention was coded using a taxonomy ofBCTs targeting healthy eating and physical activity. A series of meta‐regression analyses were conducted to identify effectiveBCTs.

Results

In total, 25 reports were included. Interventions had a medium‐to‐large effect on intentions (d+ = 0.64) and a small‐to‐medium effect (d+ = 0.41) on behaviour. OneBCT, ‘provide information on the consequences of behaviour in general’, was significantly associated with a positive change in intention. OneBCT, ‘relapse prevention/coping planning’, was associated with a negative change in intention. NoBCTs were found to have significant positive effects on behaviour. However, oneBCT, ‘provide feedback on performance’, was found to have a significant negative effect.BCTs aligned with social cognitive theory were found to have significantly greater positive effects on intention (d+ = 0.83 vs. 0.56,p < .05), but not behaviour (d+ = 0.35 vs. 0.23,ns), than those aligned with the theory of planned behaviour.

Conclusions

Although the included studies support the notion that a change in intention is associated with a change in behaviour, this review failed to produce evidence on how to facilitate behaviour change through a change in intention. Larger meta‐analyses incorporating interventions targeting a broader range of behaviours may be warranted.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Prior research on the causal relationship between intention and behaviour has produced mixed findings.

Further experimental research to determine the precise nature of these variables is clearly warranted.

However, precise guidance onhowto change intention is still lacking.

What does this study add?

This study aimed to identify behaviour change techniques associated with changes in intention and behaviour.

Techniques with positive effects on intention were identified; however, these did not have an impact on behaviour.

Larger meta‐analyses incorporating interventions targeting a broader range of behaviours may be warranted.
The origin of novel features by changes in developmental mechanisms: ontogeny and three‐dimensional microanatomy of polyodontode scales of two early osteichthyans
Authors: Qu Qingming , Sanchez Sophie , Zhu Min , Blom Henning , Ahlberg Per Erik
Published: May 2016

Recent advances in synchrotron imaging allow us to study the three‐dimensional (3D) histology of vertebrate fossils, including microfossils (e.g. teeth and scales) of early jawed vertebrates. These microfossils can often be scanned at submicron resolution (<1 µm) because of their small size. The resulting voxel (3D pixel) stacks can be processed into virtual thin sections revealing almost every internal detail of the samples, comparable to traditional thin sections. In addition, 3D models of the internal microanatomical structures, such as embedded odontodes and vasculature, can be assembled and examinedin situ. Scales of two early osteichthyans,Psarolepis romerifrom the Early Devonian of China andAndreolepis hedeifrom the Late Silurian of Sweden, were scanned using propagation phase‐contrast synchrotron X‐ray microtomography (PPC‐SRµCT), and 3D models of internal canal systems and buried odontodes were created from the scans. Based on these new data, we review the evolutionary origin of cosmine and its associated pore‐canal system, which has been long recognized as a synapomorphy of sarcopterygians. The first odontode that appeared during growth shows almost identical morphology in the two scales, but the second odontode of thePsarolepisscale shows a distinctive morphology with several pores on the surface. It is suggested that a shift from ridge‐like odontode to pore‐bearing odontode was the key step in the origin of cosmine, which was then elaborated further in more‐derived sarcopterygians. We perform a detailed comparison between the two scales and propose a primary homology framework to generate microanatomical characters, which can be used in the phylogenetic analysis of early osteichthyans when more 3D data become available. Our results highlight the importance of 3D data for the study of histology and ontogeny of the dermal skeleton of early jawed vertebrates, especially scales of the polyodontode type. The traditional microvertebrate collection is not only useful for biostratigraphic studies, but also preserves invaluable biological information about the growth of vertebrate hard tissues. Today, we are only beginning to understand the biological meaning of the new 3D data. The increasing availability of such data will enable, and indeed require, a complete revision of traditional palaeohistological studies on early vertebrates.
World Health Organization grade II–III astrocytomas consist of genetically distinct tumor lineages
Authors: Hattori Natsuki , Hirose Yuichi , Sasaki Hikaru , Nakae Shunsuke , Hayashi Saeko , Ohba Shigeo , Adachi Kazuhide , Hayashi Takuro , Nishiyama Yuya , Hasegawa Mitsuhiro , Abe Masato
Published: May 2016

Recent investigations revealed genetic analysis provides important information in management of gliomas, and we previously reported grade II–III gliomas could be classified into clinically relevant subgroups based on the DNA copy number aberrations (CNAs). To develop more precise genetic subgrouping, we investigated the correlation between CNAs and mutational status of the gene encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) of those tumors. We analyzed the IDH status and CNAs of 174 adult supratentorial gliomas of astrocytic or oligodendroglial origin by PCR‐based direct sequencing and comparative genomic hybridization, respectively. We analyzed the relationship between genetic subclassification and clinical features. We found the most frequent aberrations in IDH mutant tumors were the combined whole arm‐loss of 1p and 19q (1p/19q codeletion) followed by gain on chromosome arm 7q (+7q). The gain of whole chromosome 7 (+7) and loss of 10q (−10q) were detected in IDH wild‐type tumors. Kaplan–Meier estimates for progression‐free survival showed that the tumors with mutant IDH, −1p/19q, or +7q (in the absence of +7p) survived longer than tumors with wild‐type IDH, +7, or −10q. As tumors with +7 (IDH wild‐type) showed a more aggressive clinical nature, they are probably not a subtype that developed from the slowly progressive tumors with +7q (IDH mutant). Thus, tumors with a gain on chromosome 7 (mostly astrocytic) comprise multiple lineages, and such differences in their biological nature should be taken into consideration during their clinical management.
Innovative strategies to improve diabetes outcomes in disadvantaged populations
Authors: Ruddock J. S. , Poindexter M. , Gary‐Webb T. L. , Walker E. A. , Davis N. J.
Published: May 2016

Diabetes disproportionately affects disadvantaged populations. Eighty percent of deaths directly caused by diabetes occurred in low‐ and middle‐income countries. In high‐income countries, there are marked disparities in diabetes control among racial/ethnic minorities and those with low socio‐economic status. Innovative, effective and cost‐effective strategies are needed to improve diabetes outcomes in these populations. Technological advances, peer educators and community health workers have expanded methodologies to reach, educate and monitor individuals with diabetes. In the present manuscript we review the outcomes of these strategies, and describe the barriers to and facilitators of these approaches for improving diabetes outcomes.
DOES OPTION THEORY HOLD FOR MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CONTRACTS?
Authors: Gross Alexander , Link Charles
Published: May 2016

We test whether option theory indicated by the Black–Scholes formula is consistent with contract negotiations between teams and players in Major League Baseball (MLB). Teams use contract options in order to obtain the right to buy a player's services for an extra year when negotiating multiple year contracts. These options are similar to European call options, and should reduce the risk of buying volatile assets (players with high variation in performance). In this paper, we model the decision to buy an option (include an option year in the contract) and whether to exercise the option (pay the option salary in the option year versus buying out the option). The results indicate that the behavior of MLB teams is consistent with standard option theory both in terms of buying and exercising options. The sample is the complete population of free agent hitters who signed new contracts between the years 2003 and 2011. We were unable to find any published literature that has addressed this issue. (JEL ZO, H3)
A randomized controlled trial of self‐regulated modified constraint‐induced movement therapy in sub‐acute stroke patients
Authors: Liu K. P. Y. , Balderi K. , Leung T. L. F. , Yue A. S. Y. , Lam N. C. W. , Cheung J. T. Y. , Fong S. S. M. , Sum C. M. W. , Bissett M. , Rye R. , Mok V. C. T.
Published: May 2016

Background and purpose

Emerging research suggests the use of self‐regulation (SR) for improving functional regain in patients post stroke. SR is proposed to produce an added effect to effective modified constraint‐induced movement therapy (mCIMT). This study aimed to examine the effect of a self‐regulated mCIMT programme (SR‐mCIMT) for functional regain in patients with sub‐acute stroke.

Methods

Eighty‐six patients completed the trial: SR‐mCIMT, n = 29; mCIMT, n = 31; or conventional functional rehabilitation, n = 26. All interventions were 2‐week therapist‐guided training. Outcome measurements, taken by a blinded assessor, examined arm function [Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Fugl‐Meyer Assessment (FMA)], daily task performance [Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (Lawton IADL)] and self‐perceived arm use in functional tasks [Motor Activity Log (MAL)].

Results

Significant differences were found with the SR‐mCIMT outperforming the other groups after the intervention (ARAT, P = 0.006; FMA, Lawton IADL and MAL, all Ps < 0.001). In terms of the carry‐over effect, the SR‐mCIMT group outperformed in the hand and coordination subscales of ARAT and FMA (P = 0.012–0.013) and the self‐perceived quality of arm use (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

A combination of SR and mCIMT could produce an added effect in functional regain in patients post stroke.
Isolating RNA from precursor and mature melanocytes from human vitiligo and normal skin using laser capture microdissection
Authors: Goldstein Nathaniel B. , Koster Maranke I. , Hoaglin Laura G. , Wright Michael J. , Robinson Steven E. , Robinson William A. , Roop Dennis R. , Norris David A. , Birlea Stanca A.
Published: May 2016

To characterize the gene expression profile of regenerated melanocytes in the narrow band UVB (NBUVB)‐treated vitiligo epidermis and their precursors in the hair follicle, we present here a strategy of RNA isolation from in situ melanocytes using human frozen skin. We developed a rapid immunostaining protocol using the NKI‐beteb antibody, which labels differentiated and precursor melanocytes, followed by fluorescent laser capture microdissection. This technique enabled the direct isolation, from melanocyte and adjacent keratinocyte populations, of satisfactory quality RNA that was successfully amplified and analysed by qRT‐PCR. The melanocyte‐specific gene transcripts TYR, DCT, TYRP1 and PMEL were significantly upregulated in our NBUVB‐treated melanocyte samples as compared with the keratinocyte samples, while keratinocyte‐specific genes (KRT5 and KRT14) were expressed significantly higher in the keratinocyte samples as compared with the melanocyte samples. Furthermore, in both NBUVB‐treated vitiligo skin and normal skin, when bulge melanocytes were compared with epidermal melanocytes, we found significantly lower expression of melanocyte‐specific genes and significantly higher expression of three melanocytic stem cell genes (SOX9, WIF1 and SFRP1), while ALCAM and ALDH1A1 transcripts did not show significant variation. We found significantly higher expression of melanocyte‐specific genes in the epidermis of NBUVB‐treated vitiligo, as compared to the normal skin. When comparing bulge melanocyte samples from untreated vitiligo, NBUVB‐treated vitiligo and normal skin, we did not find significant differences in the expression of melanocyte‐specific genes or melanocytic stem cell genes. These techniques offer valuable opportunities to study melanocytes and their precursors in vitiligo and other pigmentation disorders.
Endocannabinoid signaling regulates regenerative axon navigation in Caenorhabditis elegans via the GPCRs NPR‐19 and NPR‐32
Authors: Pastuhov Strahil Iv. , Matsumoto Kunihiro , Hisamoto Naoki
Published: May 2016

The axon regeneration ability of neurons depends on the interplay of factors that promote and inhibit regeneration. In Caenorhabditis elegans, axon regeneration is promoted by the JNK MAP kinase (MAPK) pathway. Previously, we found that the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) inhibits the axon regeneration response of motor neurons after laser axotomy by suppressing the JNK signaling pathway. Here, we show that the G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) NPR‐19 and NPR‐32 inhibit axon regeneration in response to AEA. Furthermore, we show that sensory neuron expression of the nape‐1 gene, which encodes an enzyme synthesizing AEA, causes the regenerating motor axons to avoid sensory neurons and this avoidant response depends on NPR‐19 and NPR‐32. These results indicate that the navigation of regenerating axons is modulated by the action of AEA on NPR‐19/32 GPCRs.
Some Agronomic Strategies for Organic Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)
Authors: Jacobsen S.‐E. , Christiansen J. L.
Published: May 2016

Quinoa is a potential new seed crop for protein feed and human consumption in Europe, with tolerance to a range of abiotic stresses. For this purpose the study was planned to analyse the effect of important agronomic strategies like nitrogen level, N application strategy, row spacing and harvest time on yield and quality of quinoa. The experiments took place in the field of the experimental station of the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. Three levels of organic nitrogen from slurry was used (60, 120 and 180 kg N ha−1), supplied either all at once at sowing, or split between sowing and beginning of the reproductive phase. The effect of row spacing and harvest time was studied by harvesting seeds at seed maturity, which occurred 2–3 weeks prior to the mechanical harvest by threshing, and a couple of months after. Yield increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) with an application up to 180 kg N ha−1, reaching 2200 kg ha−1. Increasing N also caused a significantly increased seed weight (up to 3.3 mg) and protein content (up to 17 %). N level did not affect number and amount of weeds. Split application with part of the N applied at bud formation did not have a significant effect on yield. Delayed harvest had a negative influence on seed weight, whereas protein content was stable after harvesting even a month after seed maturity. A late harvest significantly reduced seed germination, being reduced by 50 % after a 2‐month delay. A conclusion from this study is that both yield and protein content of seed can be manipulated by N level and application strategy. Harvest time is important for securing a high seed quality measured as seed germination, seed weight and protein content. A fast germination of quinoa is an important characteristic demonstrating that the crop has good possibilities for being well‐established in the field when free from weeds at the time of sowing. The choice of row spacing is important and depends on weed control method. Weed control strategy should be developed based on modern precision tools.
Commentary: Cognitive and emotional empathy in transdiagnostic research – reflections on Klapwijk et al. (2016)
Authors: Herrington John D.
Published: May 2016

Evidence across multiple disorders indicates that empathy is a transdiagnostic dimension of psychopathology. Klapwijk et al.'s (2016) functional MRI study examines whether autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and conduct disorder (CD) can be distinguished by the constructs of ‘cognitive’ and ‘emotional’ empathy – with the former focusing on accurate emotion perception and the latter on shared affective experience. This commentary examines the implications of the cognitive/emotional empathy distinction, and how it fits with existing accounts of perceptual differences in ASD. Cognitive empathy overlaps substantially with the constructs of emotion perception and Theory of Mind – both well studied among individuals with ASD, but generally viewed as fairly distinct from empathy. CD, on the other hand, is typically not associated with frank perceptual deficits. Although the brain imaging data from this study do not provide strong support for the constructs of cognitive and emotional empathy, the general approach used in this study is precisely the kind needed to test the validity and utility of transdiagnostic mechanisms of psychopathology.
Commentary: Switching the zoom on the ADHD research lens – a reflection on Leventakou et al. (2016)
Authors: Cortese Samuele
Published: May 2016

The study by Leventakou and colleagues is emblematic of a welcome change in focus in attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) research. First, the authors focused on the overlooked association between ADHD and aberrant eating patterns, reflecting an emerging change in the conceptualization of ADHD as a condition affecting not only high‐level cognitive processes but also more basic functions such as eating and sleeping, as well as the underlying complex metabolic and possibly inflammatory pathways. Second, the authors focused, for the first time, on the relationship between ADHD and eating disorders in preschoolers, which is of relevance for the design of preventive strategies. Third, they zoomed closely to several types of aberrant eating behaviours; besides confirming the association of ADHD symptoms to emotional overeating, they also found an intriguing relationship between impulsivity and food fussiness. Further changes in perspective focusing on the underlying mechanisms, as well as using a wide‐angle lens to capture the longitudinal relationship between ADHD and aberrant eating behaviours will not only provide a more detailed (clinical) picture of individuals with ADHD but will also hopefully lead to more effective preventive/treatment strategies.
The Cost of Majority‐Party Bias: Amending Activity under Structured Rules
Authors: Lynch Michael S. , Madonna Anthony J. , Roberts Jason M.
Published: May 2016

All major legislation in the House necessitates a special rule from the Rules Committee before it can be brought to the chamber floor. These rules often strictly limit floor amendments to bills considered by the House. Scholars of political parties have argued that the House majority party can bias policy output away from the floor median through its usage of restrictive rules. In this article, we argue that in order to secure the passage of restrictive rules, the majority often makes concessions to centrist legislators through the amending process. We examine this theory using a newly collected data set that includes all amendments considered by the Rules Committee during the construction of structured rules in the 109th, 110th, and 111th Congresses (2005–2010). Our results are mixed, but they do suggest that moderate members of the majority party often receive concessions via amendments for their support of the majority party's agenda‐setting regime.
Exploring factors affecting registered nurses' pursuit of postgraduate education in Australia
Authors: Ng Linda , Eley Robert , Tuckett Anthony
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to explore the factors influencing registered nurses' pursuit of postgraduate education in specialty nursing practice in Australia. Despite the increased requirement for postgraduate education for advanced practice, little has been reported on the contributory factors involved in the decision to undertake further education. The Nurses' Attitudes Towards Postgraduate Education instrument was administered to 1632 registered nurses from the Nurses and Midwives e‐Cohort Study across Australia, with a response rate of 35.9% (n = 568). Data reduction techniques using principal component analysis with varimax rotation were used. The analysis identified a three‐factor solution for 14 items, accounting for 52.5% of the variance of the scale: “facilitators,” “professional recognition,” and “inhibiting factors.” Facilitators of postgraduate education accounted for 28.5% of the variance, including: (i) improves knowledge; (ii) increases nurses' confidence in clinical decision‐making; (iii) enhances nurses' careers; (iv) improves critical thinking; (v) improves nurses' clinical skill; and (vi) increased job satisfaction. This new instrument has potential clinical and research applications to support registered nurses' pursuit of postgraduate education.
Irritable bowel syndrome and the perinatal period: lower birth weight increases the risk
Authors: Raslau D. , Herrick L. M. , Locke G. R. , Schleck C. D. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Almazar A. , Talley N. J. , Saito Y. A.
Published: May 2016

Background

Early life events have been found to be associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) suggesting a role in development of functional disorders. The study aim was to identify potential perinatal risk factors for adult IBS.

Methods

Utilizing a population‐based nested case–control design, cases who met modified Rome III criteria for IBS and age‐ and‐gender matched controls were identified using responses from prior mailed surveys to a random sample of Olmsted County residents. Medical records of eligible respondents were reviewed for perinatal events of interest. The association of early life events with subsequent case status was assessed using conditional logistic regression.

Key Results

Of 3 417 respondents, 513 were born in Olmsted County and 108 met criteria for IBS. Due to missing records, 89 pairs were included in the final analyses. Logistic regression revealed only birth weight as a predictor of IBS. Lower birth weight increased the odds for IBS (OR = 1.54 [95% CI = (1.12, 2.08), p = 0.008]). Median birth weight was 3.35 kg (range: 1.96–5.24) and 3.57 kg (range: 2.18–4.59) for cases and controls, respectively. Maternal age, delivery method, and antibiotic exposure were not associated with IBS status but this study was only powered to detect large odds ratios.

Conclusions and Inferences

Lower birth weight was observed as a risk factor for IBS. It is not clear if in utero developmental delays directly lead to IBS or if low birth weight is a prospective marker for subsequent early life problems leading to IBS.
Birth Outcomes in a Prospective Pregnancy–Birth Cohort Study of Environmental Risk Factors in Kuwait: The TRACER Study
Authors: AlSeaidan Mohammad , Al Wotayan Rihab , Christophi Costas A. , Al‐Makhseed Massouma , Abu Awad Yara , Nassan Feiby , Ahmed Ayah , Abraham Smitha , Boley Robert Bruce , James‐Todd Tamarra , Wright Rosalind J. , Dockery Douglas W. , Behbehani Kazem
Published: May 2016

Background

Rapid development and westernisation in Kuwait and other Gulf states have been accompanied by rising rates of obesity, diabetes, asthma, and other chronic conditions. Prenatal experiences and exposures may be important targets for intervention. We undertook a prospective pregnancy–birth cohort study in Kuwait, the TRansgenerational Assessment of Children's Environmental Risk (TRACER) Study, to examine prenatal risk factors for early childhood obesity. This article describes the methodology and results of follow‐up through birth.

Methods

Women were recruited at antenatal clinical visits. Interviewers administered questionnaires during the pregnancy and collected and banked biological samples. Children are being followed up with quarterly maternal interviews, annual anthropometric measurements, and periodic collection of biosamples. Frequencies of birth outcomes (i.e. stillbirth, preterm birth, small and large for gestational age, and macrosomia) were calculated as a function of maternal characteristics and behaviours.

Results

Two thousand four hundred seventy‐eight women were enrolled, and 2254 women were followed to delivery. Overall, frequencies of stillbirth (0.6%), preterm birth (9.3%), and small for gestational age (7.4%) were comparable to other developed countries, but not strongly associated with maternal characteristics or behaviours. Macrosomia (6.1%) and large for gestational age (23.0%) were higher than expected and positively associated with pre‐pregnancy maternal overweight/obesity.

Conclusions

A large birth cohort has been established in Kuwait. The collected risk factors and banked biosamples will allow examination of the effects of prenatal exposures on the development of chronic disease in children. Initial results suggest that maternal overweight/obesity before pregnancy should be targeted to prevent macrosomia and its associated sequelae of childhood overweight/obesity.
Designing Global Governance for Agricultural Development and Food and Nutrition Security
Authors: von Braun Joachim , Birner Regina
Published: May 2016

We point to deficits in current global institutional arrangements in support of agricultural development and food and nutrition security. A framework for global institutional arrangements proposed here is the set of essential international public goods for a well‐functioning world food system. These public goods include international natural resource management; trade and transboundary competition policy; research and innovation; handling large scale food emergencies; and transboundary food safety. Based on the framework, and institutional economics considerations, causes of current malfunctioning of global food governance are analyzed. It is proposed to redesign global food governance by establishing an international platform with policy clusters mapped along the set of global public goods. To support the platform with needed research‐based evidence an International Panel on Food, Nutrition and Agriculture (IPFNA) is suggested, partly following the design of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Existing organizations and mechanisms would form building blocks of the strengthened and redesigned governance system. A gradual approach toward redesign is proposed. Some redesign in the suggested direction was triggered by the food crisis of 2008, as demonstrated by the reform of the Committee on Food Security (CFS) with its high level panel of experts, but more is needed.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DRB1*07 allele, HLA‐DRB1*07:01:19
Authors: Huo M.‐R. , Xi B. , Yu Y. , Li D.
Published: May 2016

HLA‐DRB1*07:01:19 differs from DRB1*07:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 261 of exon 2.
Response to “How We Teach Introductory Bible Courses”
Authors: Reeder Caryn A. , Liew Tat‐siong Benny , Webster Jane S. , Batten Alicia J. , Frilingos Chris
Published: May 2016

The essays collected in this manuscript respond to “How We Teach Introductory Bible Courses: A Comparative and Historical Sampling” by Collin Cornell and Joel M. LeMon, published in this issue of the journal.
A Book for None? Teaching Biblical Studies to Millennial Nones
Authors: Reed Randall
Published: May 2016

The millennial generation is distinctive for several reasons, not the least is its growing religious disaffiliation. Given a growing disinterest in religion in general and the Bible in particular especially among the fast growing group of millennial “nones” how can biblical studies classes still be seen as appealing and relevant? This article seeks to answer this question by examining the identity and concomitant values of millennials. As a result of this analysis I argue that while the Bible as inherent authority may be quickly losing its appeal, the Bible as an example of human creativity, group reflection, political rhetoric, and social discourse makes the study of the Bible particularly relevant for millennials contemplating careers in the global marketplace even if the importance of the Bible itself is waning for this generation. I show how in my introductory New Testament class I attempt to implement these ideas.
Stripes, jewels and spines: further investigations into the evolution of defensive strategies in a chemically defended gecko radiation (Strophurus, Diplodactylidae)
Authors: Nielsen Stuart V. , Oliver Paul M. , Laver Rebecca J. , Bauer Aaron M. , Noonan Brice P.
Published: May 2016

The geckos in the genus Strophurus (Diplodactylidae) are one of only two squamate lineages with specialized caudal defensive glands. Many species in this genus also have distinctive caudal ornamentation combined with bright and/or contrasting colour pattern elements on the iris, tail and especially the lining of the mouth that are hypothesized to be adaptations for specialized (e.g. deimatic) defensive functions. We present the first multilocus, phylogenetic analysis of the biogeography and evolution of all recognized taxa of Strophurus. Contrary to previous phenotypic and ecological assessments, our phylogenetic analyses delineate four divergent lineages. Three lineages are relatively small (snout‐vent length [SVL] 40–60 mm), species‐poor (<5 recognized taxa), cryptically coloured (either striped or spotted) and lack precloacal pores (a secondary sexual trait) and putative deimatic elements. In contrast, the remaining lineage is comparatively species rich (at least 14 taxa), attains a larger body size (SVL 60–90 mm), possesses precloacal pores and shows extensive variation in caudal ornamentation and often bright and/or contrasting eye, tail and mouth colouration. The three less diverse lineages have smaller distributions and tend to be associated with spinifex (e.g. Triodia) hummock grasses or rocks, whereas the fourth lineage is much more widespread (including multiple biomes) and consistently reported to utilize more exposed diurnal microhabitats on shrubs and trees. Biogeographical analyses also indicate that – in contrast to many other Australian radiations – the arid biome is the ancestral area of occupation for Strophurus, with multiple inferred shifts into surrounding sclerophyll and monsoon biomes. This study emphasizes that – independent of caudal defensive glands – it appears to be a shift in microhabitat use that correlates with the accumulation of bright and contrasting colouration elements, secondary sexual characters and the widest geographic distribution.
Feasibility and Operational Performance of Tuberculosis Detection by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Platform in Decentralized Settings: Results from a Multicenter Study
Authors: Gray Christen M. , Katamba Achilles , Narang Pratibha , Giraldo Jorge , Zamudio Carlos , Joloba Moses , Narang Rahul , Paramasivan C. N. , Hillemann Doris , Nabeta Pamela , Amisano Danielle , Alland David , Cobelens Frank , Boehme Catharina C.
Published: May 2016

Currently available nucleic acid amplification platforms for tuberculosis (TB) detection are not designed to be simple or inexpensive enough to implement in decentralized settings in countries with a high burden of disease. The loop-mediated isothermal amplification platform (LAMP) may change this. We conducted a study in adults with symptoms suggestive of TB in India, Uganda, and Peru to establish the feasibility of using TB-LAMP (Eiken Chemical Co.) in microscopy laboratories compared with using smear microscopy against a reference standard of solid and liquid cultures. Operational characteristics were evaluated as well. A total of 1,777 participants met the eligibility criteria and were included for analysis. Overall, TB-LAMP sensitivities among culture-positive samples were 97.2% (243/250; 95% confidence interval [CI], 94.3% to 98.2%) and 62.0% (88/142; 95% CI, 53.5% to 70.0%) for smear-positive and smear-negative TB, respectively, but varied widely by country and operator. Specificities ranged from 94.5% (446/472; 95% CI, 92.0% to 96.4%) to 98.0% (350/357; 95% CI, 96.0% to 99.2%) by country. A root cause analysis identified high temperatures, high humidity, and/or low reaction volumes as possible causes for false-positive results, as they may result in nonspecific amplification. The study was repeated in India with training focused on vulnerable steps and an updated protocol; 580 participants were included for analysis. Specificity in the repeat trial was 96.6% (515/533; 95% CI, 94.7% to 97.9%). To achieve acceptable performance of LAMP at the microscopy center level, significant training and infrastructure requirements are necessary.
Lessons Learned from Probing for Impacts of Triclosan and Triclocarban on Human Microbiomes
Authors: Halden Rolf U.
Published: May 2016

Despite increasing interest in the effects of triclosan and triclocarban on human biology, current knowledge is still limited on the impact of these additives to antimicrobial personal care products on the human microbiome. A carefully designed recent study published in
mSphere
by Poole and colleagues [A. C. Poole et al., mSphere 1(3):e00056-15, 2016,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/mSphere.00056-15
] highlights both the power of novel methodologies for microbiome elucidation and the longstanding challenge of employing small-cohort studies to inform risk assessment for chemicals of ubiquitous use in modern society.
Patterns of demand for non-Ebola health services during and after the Ebola outbreak: panel survey evidence from Monrovia, Liberia
Authors: Morse Ben , Grépin Karen A , Blair Robert A , Tsai Lily
Published: May 2016

Introduction

The recent Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak was unprecedented in magnitude, duration and geographic scope. Hitherto there have been no population-based estimates of its impact on non-EVD health outcomes and health-seeking behaviour.

Methods

We use data from a population-based panel survey conducted in the late-crisis period and two postcrisis periods to track trends in (1) the prevalence of adult and child illness, (2) subsequent usage of health services and (3) the determinants thereof.

Results

The prevalence of child and adult illness remained relatively steady across all periods. Usage of health services for children and adults increased by 77% and 104%, respectively, between the late-crisis period and the postcrisis periods. In the late-crisis period, (1) socioeconomic factors weakly predict usage, (2) distrust in government strongly predicts usage, (3) direct exposure to the EVD outbreak, as measured by witnessing dead bodies or knowing Ebola victims, negatively predicts trust and usage and (4) exposure to government-organised community outreach predicts higher trust and usage. These patterns do not obtain in the post-crisis period.

Interpretation

Supply-side and socioeconomic factors are insufficient to account for lower health-seeking behaviour during the crisis. Rather, it appears that distrust and negative EVD-related experiences reduced demand during the outbreak. The absence of these patterns outside the crisis period suggests that the rebound after the crisis reflects recovery of demand. Policymakers should anticipate the importance of demand-side factors, including fear and trust, on usage of health services during health crises.
Association between treatment for gonorrhoea and chlamydia and lower condom use in a cross-sectional study of female sex workers in southern India
Authors: Legendre-Dugal Marianne , Bradley Janet , Rajaram Subramanian Potty , Lowndes Catherine M , Ramesh Banadakoppa M , Washington Reynold , Moses Stephen , Blanchard James , Alary Michel
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To assess whether having received grey packets containing treatment for gonorrhoea and chlamydia was associated with condom use among female sex workers (FSWs) in 5 districts of southern India covered by theAvahanprogramme where both periodic presumptive treatment (PPT) and syndromic management were used to control these sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among FSWs.

Setting

Cross-sectional study of FSWs recruited in the field in 5 districts of southern India (Bangalore, Belgaum, Bellary, Guntur and Mumbai) in 2006–2007.

Participants

1378 self-identified FSWs out of 1442 were approached to participate in the study (participation rate: 95.6%). The only exclusion criterion was to be aged <18 years.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Consistent condom use (CCU) with new or occasional clients, and with the most recent repeat client as assessed using a questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews.

Results

Using the Poisson regression to model the association between the number of grey packets received in the past 3–12 months and reported CCU, adjusting for factors associated with condom use and other potential confounders in our data, CCU was lowest among FSWs who had received ≥3 grey packets in the past 3–12 months with their new or occasional clients (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR): 0.70, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.84, p<0.001) and with the most recent repeat client (APR 0.63, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.78, p<0.001). Tests for trends showed that CCU with both types of clients decreased with the number of grey packets received (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Since we could not distinguish grey packets used for PPT from those given for syndromic management, these results could be either due to a perception of protection conferred by PPT or by the fact that inconsistent condom users are more at risk for STIs. Further research on the potential disinhibiting effect of PPT is warranted.
Cognitive tests predict real-world errors: the relationship between drug name confusion rates in laboratory-based memory and perception tests and corresponding error rates in large pharmacy chains
Authors: Schroeder Scott R , Salomon Meghan M , Galanter William L , Schiff Gordon D , Vaida Allen J , Gaunt Michael J , Bryson Michelle L , Rash Christine , Falck Suzanne , Lambert Bruce L
Published: May 2016

Background

Drug name confusion is a common type of medication error and a persistent threat to patient safety. In the USA, roughly one per thousand prescriptions results in the wrong drug being filled, and most of these errors involve drug names that look or sound alike. Prior to approval, drug names undergo a variety of tests to assess their potential for confusability, but none of these preapproval tests has been shown to predict real-world error rates.

Objectives

We conducted a study to assess the association between error rates in laboratory-based tests of drug name memory and perception and real-world drug name confusion error rates.

Methods

Eighty participants, comprising doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians and lay people, completed a battery of laboratory tests assessing visual perception, auditory perception and short-term memory of look-alike and sound-alike drug name pairs (eg, hydroxyzine/hydralazine).

Results

Laboratory test error rates (and other metrics) significantly predicted real-world error rates obtained from a large, outpatient pharmacy chain, with the best-fitting model accounting for 37% of the variance in real-world error rates. Cross-validation analyses confirmed these results, showing that the laboratory tests also predicted errors from a second pharmacy chain, with 45% of the variance being explained by the laboratory test data.

Conclusions

Across two distinct pharmacy chains, there is a strong and significant association between drug name confusion error rates observed in the real world and those observed in laboratory-based tests of memory and perception. Regulators and drug companies seeking a validated preapproval method for identifying confusing drug names ought to consider using these simple tests. By using a standard battery of memory and perception tests, it should be possible to reduce the number of confusing look-alike and sound-alike drug name pairs that reach the market, which will help protect patients from potentially harmful medication errors.
Cancer Stem Cells: Basic Concepts and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Nassar Dany , Blanpain Cédric
Published: May 2016

Different mechanisms contribute to intratumor heterogeneity, including genetic mutations, the microenvironment, and the existence of subpopulations of cancer cells with increased renewal capacity and the ability to recapitulate the heterogeneity found in primary tumors, which are referred to as cancer stem cells (CSCs). In this review, we discuss how the concept of CSCs has been defined, what assays are currently used to define the functional properties of CSCs, what intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms regulate CSC functions, how plastic CSCs are, and the importance of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in conferring CSC properties. Finally, we discuss the mechanisms by which CSCs may resist medical therapy and contribute to tumor relapse.
Perioperative glutamine supplementation restores disturbed renal arginine synthesis after open aortic surgery: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Brinkmann Saskia J. H. , Buijs Nikki , Vermeulen Mechteld A. R. , Oosterink Efraim , Schierbeek Henk , Beishuizen Albertus , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Wisselink Willem , van Leeuwen Paul A. M.
Published: May 2016

Postoperative renal failure is a common complication after open repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The amino acid arginine is formed in the kidneys from its precursor citrulline, and citrulline is formed from glutamine in the intestines. Arginine enhances the function of the immune and cardiovascular systems, which is important for recovery after surgery. We hypothesized that renal arginine production is diminished after ischemia-reperfusion injury caused by clamping of the aorta during open abdominal aortic surgery and that parenteral glutamine supplementation might compensate for this impaired arginine synthesis. This open-label clinical trial randomized patients who underwent clamping of the aorta during open abdominal aortic surgery to receive a perioperative supplement of intravenous alanyl-glutamine (0.5 g·kg−1·day−1; group A, n = 5) or no supplement ( group B, n = 5). One day after surgery, stable isotopes and tracer methods were used to analyze the metabolism and conversion of glutamine, citrulline, and arginine. Whole body plasma flux of glutamine, citrulline, and arginine was significantly higher in group A than in group B (glutamine: 391 ± 34 vs. 258 ± 19 μmol·kg−1·h−1, citrulline: 5.7 ± 0.4 vs. 2.8 ± 0.4 μmol·kg−1·h−1, and arginine: 50 ± 4 vs. 26 ± 2 μmol·kg−1·h−1, P < 0.01), as was the synthesis of citrulline from glutamine (4.8 ± 0.7 vs. 1.6 ± 0.3 μmol·kg−1·h−1), citrulline from arginine (2.3 ± 0.3 vs. 0.96 ± 0.1 μmol·kg−1·h−1), and arginine from glutamine (7.7 ± 0.4 vs. 2.8 ± 0.2 μmol·kg−1·h−1), respectively ( P < 0.001 for all). In conclusion, the production of citrulline and arginine is severely reduced after clamping during aortic surgery. This study shows that an intravenous supplement of glutamine increases the production of citrulline and arginine and compensates for the inhibitory effect of ischemia-reperfusion injury.
On the nature of unintentional action: a study of force/moment drifts during multifinger tasks
Authors: Parsa Behnoosh , O'Shea Daniel J. , Zatsiorsky Vladimir M. , Latash Mark L.
Published: May 2016

We explored the origins of unintentional changes in performance during accurate force production in isometric conditions seen after turning visual feedback off. The idea of control with referent spatial coordinates suggests that these phenomena could result from drifts of the referent coordinate for the effector. Subjects performed accurate force/moment production tasks by pressing with the fingers of a hand on force sensors. Turning the visual feedback off resulted in slow drifts of both total force and total moment to lower magnitudes of these variables; these drifts were more pronounced in the right hand of the right-handed subjects. Drifts in individual finger forces could be in different direction; in particular, fingers that produced moments of force against the required total moment showed an increase in their forces. The force/moment drift was associated with a drop in the index of synergy stabilizing performance under visual feedback. The drifts in directions that changed performance (non-motor equivalent) and in directions that did not (motor equivalent) were of about the same magnitude. The results suggest that control with referent coordinates is associated with drifts of those referent coordinates toward the corresponding actual coordinates of the hand, a reflection of the natural tendency of physical systems to move toward a minimum of potential energy. The interaction between drifts of the hand referent coordinate and referent orientation leads to counterdirectional drifts in individual finger forces. The results also demonstrate that the sensory information used to create multifinger synergies is necessary for their presence over the task duration.
Circulating Long RNAs in Serum Extracellular Vesicles: Their Characterization and Potential Application as Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Dong Lei , Lin Wanrun , Qi Peng , Xu Mi-die , Wu Xiaoben , Ni Shujuan , Huang Dan , Weng Wei-wei , Tan Cong , Sheng Weiqi , Zhou Xiaoyan , Du Xiang
Published: May 2016

Background: Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and mRNAs are long RNAs (≥200 nucleotides) compared with miRNAs. In blood, long RNAs may be protected by serum extracellular vesicles, such as apoptotic bodies (AB), microvesicles (MV), and exosomes (EXO). They are potential biomarkers for identifying cancer.

Methods: Sera from 76 preoperative colorectal cancer patients, 76 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects, and 20 colorectal adenoma patients without colorectal cancer were collected. We investigated the distribution of long RNAs into the three vesicles. Seventy-nine cancer-related long RNAs were chosen and detected using qPCR.

Results: The quantity of long RNA has varying distribution among three subtypes of extracellular vesicles in serum. Most mRNA and lncRNA genes had higher quantity in EXOs than that in ABs and MVs, whereas MVs contain lowest quantity. We investigated 79 long RNAs chosen from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the LncRNADisease database in the sera of healthy patients, and those with colorectal cancer. In the training and test sets, the AUCs were 0.936 and 0.877, respectively. The AUC of total serum RNA was lower (0.857) than that of exosomal RNA in the same samples (0.936).

Conclusion: The present study shows that exosomal mRNAs and lncRNAs in serum could be used as biomarkers to detect colorectal cancer.

Impact: Among three types of vesicles in sera, EXOs were the richest reservoir for almost all measured long RNAs. The combination of two mRNAs, KRTAP5-4 and MAGEA3, and one lncRNA, BCAR4, could be potential candidates to detect colorectal cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(7); 1158–66. ©2016 AACR.