bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered brain cortical maturation is found in adolescents with a family history of alcoholism
Authors: Holla Bharath , Bharath Rose Dawn , Venkatasubramanian Ganesan , Benegal Vivek
Published: July 2018

Substance‐naïve offspring from high‐density alcohol use disorder (AUD) families exhibit altered subcortical brain volumes structurally and altered executive‐functioning and emotion‐processing functionally, compared with their peers. However, there is a dearth of literature exploring alterations of cortical thickness (CTh) in this population. T1‐weighted structural brain MRI was acquired in 75 substance‐naïve male offspring of treatment‐seeking early onset (<25 years) AUD patients with high familial loading of AUDs (≥2 affected relatives) (FHP) and 65 age‐matched substance‐naïve male controls with negative family history from the community. Surface‐based CTh reconstruction was done using FreeSurfer. Univariate general linear models were implemented at each vertex using SurfStat, controlling for age (linear and quadratic effects), and head size, to examine the main effect of familial AUD risk on CTh and its relationship with externalizing symptom score (ESS). A Johnson–Neyman procedure revealed that the main effect of familial AUD risk on CTh was seen during adolescence, where the FHP group had thicker cortices involving bilateral precentral gyri, left caudal middle frontal gyrus (MFG), bilateral temporo‐parietal junction, left inferior‐frontal gyrus and right inferior‐temporal gyrus. Thicker cortices in left MFG and inferior‐parietal lobule were also associated with greater ESS within both groups. More importantly, these group differences diminished with age by young adulthood. Familial AUD risk is associated with age‐related differences in maturation of several higher order association cortices that are critical to ongoing development in executive function, emotion regulation and social cognition during adolescence. Early supportive intervention for a delay in alcohol initiation during this critical phase may be crucial for this at‐risk population.
Survey of nuclear progesterone receptor expression in the uterus of the cyclic and pregnant camel (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Osman Abdel‐Hamid K. , Abbott Louise C. , Ahmed Amal A. M.
Published: July 2018

Progesterone receptors (PR) are necessary to mediate the biological effects of progesterone and are integral to the regulation of a number of different aspects of reproduction in mammals including ovulation of the oocyte, implantation of the conceptus and maintenance of pregnancy. This study investigated the expression and localization of progesterone receptors in the uterine wall of both pregnant and cyclic (nonpregnant) camels. Uterine tissue samples were collected from healthy animals and processed for routine histological and immunohistochemical staining techniques to reveal nuclear PR. Demonstration of PR was performed by indirect immunohistochemical techniques using monoclonal antibodies raised against human PR. Immunolocalization of PR was more intense in all four endometrial zones (I–IV) as well as the myometrium of non pregnant (cyclic) animals (animals with newly formed corpus luteum). In contrast, PR immunostaining in both the endometrium and the myometrium was greatly reduced in pregnancy, particularly in the latest stage examined (approximately 366 days of gestation). In conclusion, a better understanding of the expression of steroid hormones and their receptors, including progesterone and the PR is critical to improving the reproductive health and pregnancy in the domesticated dromedary camel.
Do Co‐Worker Conflicts Enhance Daily Worries about Job Insecurity: A Diary Study
Authors: Garrido Vásquez Mauricio E. , Kälin Wolfgang , Otto Kathleen , Sadlowski Janne , Kottwitz Maria U.
Published: July 2018

The long‐term negative consequences of job insecurity on employees’ health and well‐being have been demonstrated by several studies, but there is very little evidence on the daily experience of job insecurity and on the factors that may influence it. Therefore, we investigated whether short‐term changes occur in the experience of job insecurity and whether these are influenced by daily co‐worker conflicts. We carried out a diary study, in which 66 employees answered a questionnaire over the course of five working days. We conducted a multilevel analysis in which we included co‐worker conflicts as a predictor, and type of contract, emotional stability, and aggregated job insecurity perceptions as control variables. Our results revealed that job insecurity varies on a daily level, and that 23 per cent of the variance could be explained at a within‐person level. Co‐worker conflicts were a significant positive predictor for perceived job insecurity in subsequent days after controlling for aggregated job insecurity perceptions at person level. Reversed causation was not found. Practical implications for organisations should focus on the promotion of positive social relations in the work environment in order to mitigate or avoid the negative consequences of social stressors in uncertain times.
From self‐interest to solidarity: One path towards delivering refugee health
Authors: West‐Oram Peter G. N.
Published: July 2018

The recent and ongoing refugee crisis in Europe highlights conflicting attitudes about the rights of migrants and refugees to health care in transition and destination countries. Some European and Scandinavian states, such as Germany and Sweden, have welcomed large numbers of migrants, while others, such as the U.K., have been significantly less open. In part, this is because of reluctance by certain national governments to incur what are seen as the high costs of delivering aid and care to migrants. In response to these assumptions, some theorists have argued that the appropriate way to view the health needs of migrants is not in terms of rights, but in terms of the interests of destination and transition countries—and have argued that providing care to migrants and refugees will generate benefits for their host countries. However, self‐interest alone is less effective at motivating the provision of care for health deprivations that do not pose a threat to third parties, or to migrants and refugees in poor or distant countries. In this paper, I argue that while self‐interest is unlikely in itself to motivate the provision of all necessary health care to all migrants and refugees, and may risk stigmatizing already vulnerable persons, it can provide the foundation upon which such motivations can be built. My goal is therefore to show how and why a more just approach to the provision of health care to migrants can and should be derived from narrower, self‐interested commitments to preserving citizen health.
Bearing witness: United States and Canadian maternity support workers’ observations of disrespectful care in childbirth
Authors: Morton Christine H. , Henley Megan M. , Seacrist Marla , Roth Louise Marie
Published: July 2018

Background

Disrespectful care and abuse during childbirth are acknowledged global indicators of poor quality care. This study aimed to compare birth doulas’ and labor and delivery nurses’ reports of witnessing disrespectful care in the United States and Canada.

Methods

Maternity Support Survey data (2781 respondents) were used to investigate doulas’ and nurses’ reports of witnessing six types of disrespectful care. Multivariate analysis was conducted to examine the effects of demographics, practice characteristics, region, and hospital policies on witnessing disrespectful care.

Results

Nearly two‐thirds of respondents reported witnessing providers occasionally or often engaging in procedures without giving a woman time or option to consider them. One‐fifth reported witnessing providers occasionally or often engaging in procedures explicitly against the patient's wishes, and nurses were more likely to report witnessing this than doulas. Doulas and nurses who expected to leave their job within three years were significantly more likely to report that they witness most types of disrespectful care occasionally or often (OR 1.78‐2.43).

Conclusions

Doulas and nurses frequently said that they witnessed verbal abuse in the form of threats to the baby's life unless the woman agreed to a procedure, and failure to provide informed consent. Reports of witnessing some types of disrespectful care in childbirth were relatively uncommon among respondents, but witnessing disrespectful care was associated with an increased likelihood to leave maternity support work within three years, raising implications for the sustainability of doula practice, nursing work force shortages, and quality of maternity care overall.
A new early Holocene shoreline displacement record for Blekinge, southern Sweden, and implications for underwater archaeology
Authors: Hansson Anton , Hammarlund Dan , Landeschi Giacomo , Sjöström Arne , Nilsson Björn
Published: July 2018

We present evidence of a submerged early Holocene landscape off the Blekinge coastline in the Baltic Sea, dating to the Yoldia Sea and Initial Littorina Sea Stages when the water level was lower than at present. 14C dated wood remains obtained by surveillance diving and new archaeological findings in combination with bathymetric analyses and interpolations between other sites across the Baltic Sea were used for refinement of the shoreline displacement history of the region. The new results reveal a Yoldia Sea lowstand level at 20 m b.s.l., a subsequent Ancylus Lake highstand at 3 m a.s.l., and then a period of relatively stable water level at about 4 m b.s.l. during the Initial Littorina Sea Stage, several metres lower than previously concluded. The refined shoreline displacement record was used for palaeo‐reconstructions of the study area during four key periods, the Yoldia Sea lowstand phase, the Ancylus Lake transgression phase, the Ancylus Lake highstand phase and the Initial Littorina Sea lowstand phase, using elevation data and map algebra functions. A flow accumulation algorithm was used for reconstruction of the now submerged prehistoric river network in order to identify areas of high archaeological potential. Our revised shoreline displacement record, and especially its lowstand period during the Initial Littorina Sea Stage around 9500–8500 cal. a BP, raises future demands not only for specific archaeological shallow‐water surveys down to 4 m b.s.l. in the area, but also for a renewed cultural heritage management strategy. The results of this study fill an important gap in the early Holocene part of the shoreline displacement history of Blekinge, contributing to its completion since the deglaciation, which is unique for the Baltic Sea.
Influence of maternal characteristics and caregiving behaviours on children's caries experience: An intergenerational approach
Authors: Goettems Marília L. , Nascimento Gustavo G. , Peres Marco A. , Santos Ina S. , Matijasevich Alicia , Barros Aluisio J. D. , Peres Karen G. , Demarco Flávio F.
Published: July 2018

Objectives

This study adopted an intergenerational approach, aiming to answer the following research questions: (a) Are maternal oral health‐related behaviours and oral health associated with dental caries in preschool children?; (b) Do maternal caregiving behaviours mediate the association between maternal oral health‐related behaviours and dental caries in preschool children.

Methods

Children aged 5 years, enrolled in the 2004 Pelotas (Brazil) Birth Cohort, were investigated (n = 1303). Children were dentally examined using WHO criteria to assess the number of decayed, missing and filled surfaces (dmfs), and their mothers were interviewed. Standardized direct, indirect and total effects of maternal characteristics (frequency of toothbrushing, dental anxiety, the pattern of dental attendance, self‐perception about oral health and self‐reported dental caries) on maternal caregiving behaviours and children's dmfs were assessed using path analysis.

Results

Mean dmfs was 4.1 (95% CI 3.6;4.5). Maternal oral health‐related behaviours had no direct effect on children's dental caries: child dental attendance pattern partially mediates the effect of maternal dental attendance pattern on dental caries (87.8%; P < 0.05) and partially mediates the effect of maternal dental anxiety (39.9%; P < 0.001). Child frequency of toothbrushing mediates 28.0% (P < 0.001) of the effect of maternal frequency of toothbrushing on dental caries.

Conclusions

Socioeconomic factors directly influenced children's caries experience, whereas maternal oral health‐related behaviours had no direct effect. It was observed an indirect effect of maternal dental anxiety and dental attendance pattern on children's dental caries mediated by caregiving behaviours, such as child dental attendance pattern and frequency of toothbrushing.
Otitis media with effusion in nasal polyposis and outcomes following surgery: A longitudinal observational study
Authors: Lisan Q. , Rubin F. , Bonfils P. , Villeneuve A.
Published: July 2018

Objective

In patients with nasal polyposis (NP), otitis media with effusion (OME) seems to be a marker of severity of the inflammatory process occurring in those patients. The aim was to assess whether OME could represent a marker of resistance to the surgical treatment of NP.

Design

Longitudinal observational cohort study including patients between January 1991 and January 2017. Mean follow‐up was 7.4 years.

Setting

Tertiary‐care hospital centre.

Participants

Patients with NP who underwent surgery (radical bilateral sphenoethmoidectomy).

Main outcome measures

Four outcomes reflecting resistance to the surgical treatment: a clinical score of rhinologic symptoms, the mean number of systemic corticosteroids treatment per year, the recurrence rate of polyps and the rate of reoperation.

Results

A total of 266 patients were included (63.9% of men, mean age 48 years). In multivariate linear mixed‐effects regression, when compared to patients without OME, patients with OME presented a similar clinical score of symptoms (coefficient 0.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.25 to 0.06, P‐value = 0.24) and a borderline higher mean number of systemic corticosteroids treatments per year (coefficient 0.11, 95% CI 0.003‐0.23, P‐value = 0.04). In multivariate Cox regression analyses, patients with OME had a similar reoperation rate than patients without OME (hazard ratio (HR) 0.29, 95% CI 0.06‐1.50) and a similar recurrence rate of polyps (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.23‐1.53).

Conclusion

In patients with NP, OME is not a marker of surgical resistance. Those patients should be managed similarly than patients without, and similar outcomes following surgery should be expected.
Quality of life in the management of small vestibular schwannomas: Observation, radiotherapy and microsurgery
Authors: Deberge Sarah , Meyer Anais , Le Pabic Estelle , Peigne Lucie , Morandi Xavier , Godey Benoit
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare quality of life (QOL) in small unilateral vestibular schwannoma (VS) patients managed by microsurgery, radiotherapy or observation.

Study design

A retrospective chart review.

Methods

The study included a total of 142 patients with VS stage 1 or 2 according to the Koos classification and treated between January 2004 and December 2015. Microsurgery, radiotherapy and observation groups comprised 43, 46 and 53 patients, respectively. All patients completed four QOL (questionnaires: Short‐Form Health Survey 36, Hearing Handicap Inventory, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory and Dizziness Handicap Inventory Short‐Form). Clinical symptoms and QOL were compared among groups.

Results

The average time interval between management and filling in the questionnaires was 66 months. There was no difference in QOL between the three groups on any of the four questionnaires. The most debilitating symptom was vertigo for all three groups. Tinnitus was a pejorative factor in the surgery group. Hearing level was deteriorated after microsurgery but there was no significant difference between the radiotherapy group and the middle fossa approach.

Conclusion

Patients with small VS stage 1 and 2 had similar QOL, irrespective of management by observation, radiotherapy or microsurgery. The overall predictor for long‐term reduced QOL was vertigo. Vestibular rehabilitation could improve QOL in symptomatic patients.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and microvascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Avgerinos Ioannis , Karagiannis Thomas , Malandris Konstantinos , Liakos Aris , Mainou Maria , Bekiari Eleni , Matthews David R. , Tsapas Apostolos
Published: July 2018

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the effect of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) on microvascular endpoints in adult patients with type 2 diabetes. We included 60 studies with 60 077 patients. GLP‐1 RAs marginally reduced urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio compared with placebo or other antidiabetic agents (weighted mean difference − 2.55 mg/g; 95% confidence interval [CI] −4.37 to −0.73 and −5.52; −10.89 to −0.16, respectively) and had no clinically relevant effect on change in estimated glomerular filtration rate. Treatment with GLP‐1 RAs did not increase incidence of diabetic retinopathy, macular oedema, retinal detachment and retinal haemorrhage, irrespective of comparator. Nevertheless, incidence of vitreous haemorrhage was higher in subjects treated with GLP‐1 RAs compared with placebo (odds ratios 1.93; 95% CI 1.09 to 3.42). In conclusion, GLP‐1 RAs are safe regarding nephropathy‐ and retinopathy‐related outcomes. Caution may be warranted for incidence of vitreous haemorrhage. The low overall quality of evidence highlights the need for consistent assessment and reporting of microvascular endpoints in future trials.
Efficacy of bortezomib in non‐IgM type I cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis: a single‐centre retrospective case series
Authors: Lobbes Hervé , Grobost Vincent , Lemal Richard , Rieu Virginie , Le Guenno Guillaume , Ruivard Marc
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Treatment of non‐IgM type I cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis (CV) is challenging. Corticosteroids are first‐line therapy, but relapses are frequent leading to therapeutic escalation. Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor with rapid effect on monoclonal component. However, its use in non‐IgM type I CV has been barely reported.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of bortezomib in non‐IgM type I CV.

Method

Single‐centre case series of four patients with non‐IgM type I CV treated with bortezomib monotherapy.

Results

Two men and two women, 60‐84 years old, received bortezomib monotherapy. Monoclonal component was IgG‐λ (n = 2), IgA‐λ and IgG‐κ. Clinical features were necrotic rash (n = 3), synovitis (n = 3) and sensitive neuropathy (n = 2). CV was refractory to corticosteroids (n = 4), cyclophosphamide (n = 3) and rituximab (n = 2). Three patients experienced dramatic clinical improvement with undetectable cryoglobulin after three cycles (bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 weekly). Each patient relapsed 4‐18 months after treatment discontinuation. Bortezomib was unsuccessful after four cycles in one patient. Bortezomib toxicity included one pneumonia and 1 case of worsening neuropathic pain.

Conclusion

Bortezomib in monotherapy should be considered as a valuable option in refractory non‐IgM type I CV because of its swift efficacy and acceptable tolerance profile.
Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with polycythaemia vera
Authors: Hatalova Antónia , Schwarz Jiri , Gotic Mirjana , Penka Miroslav , Hrubisko Mikulas , Kusec Rajko , Egyed Miklós , Griesshammer Martin , Podolak‐Dawidziak Maria , Hellmann Andrzej , Klymenko Sergiy , Niculescu‐Mizil Emilia , Petrides Petro E. , Grosicki Sebastian , Sever Matjaz , Cantoni Nathan , Thiele Jürgen , Wolf Dominik , Gisslinger Heinz
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To present the Central European Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Organisation (CEMPO) treatment recommendations for polycythaemia vera (PV).

Methods

During meetings held from 2015 through 2017, CEMPO discussed PV and its treatment and recent data.

Results

PV is associated with increased risks of thrombosis/thrombo‐haemorrhagic complications, fibrotic progression and leukaemic transformation. Presence of Janus kinase (JAK)‐2 gene mutations is a diagnostic marker and standard diagnostic criterion. World Health Organization 2016 diagnostic criteria for PV, focusing on haemoglobin levels and bone marrow morphology, are mandatory. PV therapy aims at managing long‐term risks of vascular complications and progression towards transformation to acute myeloid leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. Risk stratification for thrombotic complications guides therapeutic decisions. Low‐risk patients are treated first line with low‐dose aspirin and phlebotomy. Cytoreduction is considered for low‐risk (phlebotomy intolerance, severe/progressive symptoms, cardiovascular risk factors) and high‐risk patients. Hydroxyurea is suspected of leukaemogenic potential. IFN‐α has demonstrated efficacy in many clinical trials; its pegylated form is best tolerated, enabling less frequent administration than standard interferon. Ropeginterferon alfa‐2b has been shown to be more efficacious than hydroxyurea. JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib is approved for hydroxyurea resistant/intolerant patients.

Conclusions

Greater understanding of PV is serving as a platform for new therapy development and treatment response predictors.
Conducting and reporting animal experimentation: Quo vadis?
Authors: Diaz Silvina L.
Published: July 2018

Most scientific journals ask authors to include a statement in their articles that animal studies have been carried out in agreement with international regulations on the use and care of laboratory animals. This statement implies that all the experiments conducted on animals have been evaluated and accepted by an Ethical Committee and, that animal welfare has been put as a priority throughout the experimental protocol. Nevertheless, discrepancies are commonly found between the described procedures and the guidelines that are claimed to have been followed; this reveals a double dilemma. First, animal welfare is not always considered, implicating discomfort or even worse, suffering to animals involved. Secondly, revisions of manuscripts are sometimes done without taking into account ethical and regulatory aspects concerning the use of animals. Underestimation of pain or suffering, disregard for physiological parameters, and other examples recently reported in scientific journals by neuroscientists from all over the world are discussed in this article. In a period of great debate about the ethical use of animals, with society being involved and engaged in the discussion, this Neuro‐Opinion intends to call the attention of researchers, ethical committee members, and journal editors about the need of strictly endorsing international regulations and placing animal welfare as the top priority.
Reorganization of motor unit activity at different sites within the human masseter muscle during experimental masseter pain
Authors: Malik Bushra , Whittle Terry , Ogawa Toru , Murray Greg M.
Published: July 2018

The aims were to test the hypotheses that experimental masseter muscle pain leads to recruitment and/or derecruitment of motor units at different sites within the masseter and that the patterns of change in motor unit activity differ between sites. Single motor unit (SMU) activity was recorded at two sites within the right masseter [superior/anterior, inferior/posterior (IP)] during isometric biting tasks (ramp, step level) on an intraoral force transducer in 17 participants during three experimental blocks comprising no infusion (baseline), 5% hypertonic saline infusion (pain), or isotonic saline infusion (control). A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to score pain intensity. The VAS scores were statistically significantly greater during infusion of hypertonic saline than during infusion of isotonic saline. No significant differences in force levels and rates of force change were found between experimental blocks. In comparison with isotonic saline infusion, SMUs could be recruited and derecruited at both sites during hypertonic saline infusion. The frequency of recruitment or derecruitment, in comparison with no change, was statistically significantly greater at the IP site than at the superior/anterior site. Experimental noxious masseter stimulation results in a reorganization of motor unit activity throughout the muscle, and the pattern of reorganization may be different in different regions of the muscle.
Aspidiella hartii (Cockerell 1895) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) on yam (Dioscorea spp.) tubers: a new pest regularly entering the European part of the EPPO region
Authors: Salerno M. , Mazzeo G. , Suma P. , Russo A. , Diana L. , Pellizzari G. , Porcelli F.
Published: July 2018

Yam is an important West African crop and is an inexpensive source of carbohydrate. Many people of Central African origin living in South Italy buy imported tubers to prepare their preferred recipes. Aspidiella hartii (Cockerell) infests yam tubers marketed in Bari (South Italy). Adult female scales on tuber bark are brownish, subcircular and about 1.2 mm wide. Ventral shields (‘flags’) from dead individuals are also abundant. The pest reproduces during storage and covers the tuber. Removal of plant sap shrivels the tubers during their trade, reducing quality, viability and marketability of the product. Severe A. hartii infestation of tubers can also inhibit their resprouting or kill the plant in the country of origin. Dipping yam in concentrated pyrethroids, or organophosphate insecticide, storage in sawdust, paddy husk or wood ash or paraffin wax coating may help to control the pest, although dipping in pyrethroids or organophosphate insecticide is not allowed in Europe. The armoured scale also infests Colocasia sp. (Taro, Araceae) and Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam. (sweet potato, Convolvulaceae) causing similar damage. The presence of A. hartii host plants in Europe and the possible host‐shift of this pest to other crops in the region pose a risk for EPPO countries.
Fish dispersal in flowing waters: A synthesis of movement‐ and genetic‐based studies
Authors: Comte Lise , Olden Julian D.
Published: July 2018

Enhancing our understanding of fish dispersal is central to the success of modern‐day conservation efforts in freshwater ecosystems. However, methods seeking to estimate dispersal are diverse; ranging from direct estimation of individual movements, computation of dispersal kernels, to indirect assessment using measures of gene flow across riverscapes. An important question is whether results from these different approaches provide a consistent picture of the spatial scales of dispersal. Here, we performed a review and meta‐analysis of the literature reporting both individual movements and genetic data to characterize patterns of dispersal for riverine fishes globally. Across all the studies considered (Ndirect = 206; Nindirect = 205), our results suggest restricted magnitudes of dispersal for riverine fishes, but highlight a large heterogeneity among species, taxonomic orders and geographies. For instance, we found that the maximum parent–offspring dispersal distances varied from 69 m to 1,086 km (median = 12 km; Nspecies = 107), whereas the dispersal spread derived from isolation‐by‐distance slopes (σIBD) from genetic data ranged from 19 m to 250 km (median = 1 km; Nspecies = 56). Comparisons of species‐specific values also revealed significant and positive relationships between direct and indirect estimates of dispersal distances, indicating that organismal movement ability often translates into effective transmission of genes. Finally, this global overview pointed to important geographic and taxonomic disparities in the study of dispersal for riverine fishes. We thus encourage researchers to broaden the taxonomic and geographical scope of future investigations and identify emerging research frontiers where new scientific efforts are needed.
Resilience of tropical tree cover: The roles of climate, fire, and herbivory
Authors: Staal Arie , van Nes Egbert H. , Hantson Stijn , Holmgren Milena , Dekker Stefan C. , Pueyo Salvador , Xu Chi , Scheffer Marten
Published: July 2018

Fires and herbivores shape tropical vegetation structure, but their effects on the stability of tree cover in different climates remain elusive. Here, we integrate empirical and theoretical approaches to determine the effects of climate on fire‐ and herbivore‐driven forest‐savanna shifts. We analyzed time series of remotely sensed tree cover and fire observations with estimates of herbivore pressure across the tropics to quantify the fire–tree cover and herbivore–tree cover feedbacks along climatic gradients. From these empirical results, we developed a spatially explicit, stochastic fire‐vegetation model that accounts for herbivore pressure. We find emergent alternative stable states in tree cover with hysteresis across rainfall conditions. Whereas the herbivore–tree cover feedback can maintain low tree cover below 1,100 mm mean annual rainfall, the fire–tree cover feedback can maintain low tree cover at higher rainfall levels. Interestingly, the rainfall range where fire‐driven alternative vegetation states can be found depends strongly on rainfall variability. Both higher seasonal and interannual variability in rainfall increase fire frequency, but only seasonality expands the distribution of fire‐maintained savannas into wetter climates. The strength of the fire–tree cover feedback depends on the spatial configuration of tree cover: Landscapes with clustered low tree‐cover areas are more susceptible to cross a tipping point of fire‐driven forest loss than landscapes with scattered deforested patches. Our study shows how feedbacks involving fire, herbivores, and the spatial structure of tree cover explain the resilience of tree cover across climates.
Egg‐laying traits reflect shifts in dragonfly assemblages in response to different amount of tropical forest cover
Authors: Rodrigues Marciel Elio , Roque Fabio De Oliveira , Guillermo‐Ferreira Rhainer , Saito Victor S. , Samways Michael J.
Published: July 2018

Oviposition site selection by aquatic insects is usually influenced by both aquatic and terrestrial cues. Landscape changes (e.g. native vegetation loss) can affect the level of the reproductive success in aquatic insects, changing local species composition and richness.

We investigate whether forest cover loss around streams influences the number of species with exophytic (species which lay eggs directly on the water surface), endophytic (species which lay their eggs directly into plant tissue), or epiphytic (species which lay eggs on the exposed surface of rocks, leaves, trunks or other substrates protruding from the stream surface) oviposition behaviour in dragonfly assemblages.

We sampled adult dragonflies in 116 streams in a Neotropical savanna region in Brazil. The relationship between species richness for each behavioural category, and the proportion of forest cover around the streams, was tested using regression analysis.

We collected 2413 dragonfly (Anisoptera and Zygoptera) individuals, belonging to 8 families, 30 genera, and 63 species. Of these, 25 species were classified as exophytic, 28 as epiphytic, and 10 as endophytic. Our results show that the number of species with exophytic or epiphytic behaviour was strongly related to riparian forest loss.

Forest loss changes the habitat, and here, specifically changes site suitability for oviposition. We highlight the importance of using behavioural traits as a bioindicator tool for the assessment of anthropogenic impacts on tropical forest.
An odorant receptor mediates the attractiveness of cis‐jasmone to Campoletis chlorideae, the endoparasitoid of Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Sun Y.‐L. , Dong J.‐F. , Ning C. , Ding P.‐P. , Huang L.‐Q. , Sun J.‐G. , Wang C.‐Z.
Published: July 2018

Parasitic wasps rely on olfaction to locate their hosts in complex chemical environments. Odorant receptors (ORs) function together with well‐conserved odorant coreceptors (ORcos) to determine the sensitivity and specificity of olfactory reception. Campoletis chlorideae (Hymenoptera: Ichneunmonidae) is a solitary larval endoparasitoid of the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, and some other noctuid species. To understand the molecular basis of C. chlorideae’s olfactory reception, we sequenced the transcriptome of adult male and female heads (including antennae) and identified 211 OR transcripts, with 95 being putatively full length. The tissue expression profiles, as assessed by reverse‐transcription PCR, showed that seven ORs were expressed only or more highly in female antennae. Their functions were analysed using the Xenopu slaevis oocyte expression system and two‐electrode voltage‐clamp recordings. CchlOR62 was tuned to cis‐jasmone, which was attractive to female C. chlorideae adults and H. armigera larvae in the subsequent behavioural assays. Further bioassays using caged plants showed that the parasitism rate of H. armigera larvae by C. chlorideae on cis‐jasmone‐treated tobacco plants was higher than on the control plants. Thus, cis‐jasmone appears to be an important infochemical involved in the interactions of plants, H. armigera and C. chlorideae, and CchlOR62 mediates the attractiveness of cis‐jasmone to C. chlorideae.
Biotic and abiotic factors shape the microbiota of wild‐caught populations of the arbovirus vectorCulicoides imicola
Authors: Díaz‐Sánchez S. , Hernández‐Jarguín A. , Torina A. , Fernández de Mera I. G. , Estrada‐Peña A. , Villar M. , La Russa F. , Blanda V. , Vicente J. , Caracappa S. , Gortazar C. , de la Fuente J.
Published: July 2018

Biting midges of the genusCulicoidesare known vectors of arboviruses affecting human and animal health. However, little is known aboutCulicoides imicolamicrobiota and its influence on this insect’s biology. In this study, the impact of biotic and abiotic factors onC. imicolamicrobiota was characterized using shotgun‐metagenomic sequencing of whole‐body DNA samples. Wild‐caughtC. imicolaadult nulliparous females were sampled in two locations from Sicily, Italy. The climatic variables of temperature and soil moisture from both localities were recorded together with potential host bloodmeal sources. Shared core microbiome amongC. imicolapopulations includedPseudomonas,Escherichia,Halomonas,CandidatusZinderia,Propionibacterium, andSchizosaccharomyces. Specific and unique taxa were also found inC. imicolafrom each location, highlighting similarities and differences in microbiome composition between the two populations. DNA and protein identification showed differences in host preferences between the two populations, withHomo sapiensandCanis lupus familiarisL. being the preferred bloodmeal source in both locations. A principal component analysis showed that the combined effect of host preferences (H. sapiens) and local soil moisture factors shape the microbiome composition of wild‐caught populations ofC. imicola. These results contribute to characterizing the role of the microbiome in insect adaptation and its utility in predicting geographic expansion ofCulicoidesspecies with potential implications for the control of vector‐borne diseases.
Particle therapy patient scheduling with limited starting time variations of daily treatments
Authors: Maschler Johannes , Raidl Günther R.
Published: July 2018

The particle therapy patient scheduling problem (PTPSP) arises in modern cancer treatment facilities that provide particle therapy. It consists of scheduling a set of therapies within a planning horizon of several months. A particularity of PTSP compared with classical radiotherapy scheduling is that therapies need not only be assigned to days but also scheduled within each day to account for the more complicated operational scenario. In an earlier work, we introduced this novel problem setting and provided first algorithms including an iterated greedy (IG) metaheuristic. In this work, we consider an important extension to the PTPSP emerging from practice in which the therapies should be provided on treatment days roughly at the same time. To be more specific, the variation between the starting times of the therapies' individual treatments should not exceed the given limits, and needs otherwise to be minimized. This additional constraint implies that the sequencing parts within each day can no longer be treated independently. To tackle this variant of PTPSP, we revise our previous IG and exchange its main components: the part of the applied construction heuristic for scheduling within the days and the local search algorithm. The resulting metaheuristic provides promising results for the proposed extension of the PTPSP and further enhances the existing approach for the original problem.
Evaluation of angiotensin II type‐1 receptor antibodies in primary aldosteronism and further considerations about their possible pathogenetic role
Authors: Sabbadin Chiara , Ceccato Filippo , Ragazzi Eugenio , Boscaro Marco , Betterle Corrado , Armanini Decio
Published: July 2018

Angiotensin II type‐1 receptor autoantibodies (AT1RAb) have been involved in the genesis of primary aldosteronism (PA), both in aldosterone‐producing adenoma (APA) and in idiopathic hyperaldosteronism (IHA). In this study, we evaluated the titer of AT1RAb in 44 PA patients (15 with APA and 29 with IHA) compared with 18 normotensive healthy controls who were matched for gender and age. In 17 PA patients (6 APA and 11 IHA) the titer was evaluated under mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist treatment. We found that PA patients had a significantly higher titer of AT1RAb compared with controls (median values 33 [IQR 15.6] IU/mL vs 17.5 [IQR 10.8] IU/mL, respectively; P < 0.0001). No significant difference of the AT1RAb titer was reported among PA patients, subdivided according to the subtypes and the concomitant MR antagonist therapy. No significant correlation was detected between age, gender, BMI, blood pressure values, baseline aldosterone, ARR, and the AT1RAb titer of all patients enrolled. Our data confirm an increased titer of AT1RAb in both subtypes of PA, independently from the concomitant use of MR antagonists and clinical/biochemical characteristics of PA patients. The small sample of patients and the relatively short time of treatment could have influenced these results. Moreover, the ELISA assay fails to evaluate the bioactivity of AT1RAb. Further studies should evaluate if the subtype, the clinical/biochemical recovery of PA, or both, influence the pathogenetic role of AT1RAb. The possible autoimmune pathogenesis and reversal effect with AT1R blocker treatment in PA patients with AT1RAb positivity is intriguing and requires further study.
Some thoughts about the terms “centre” and “inside,” in relation to the concept of person‐centredness
Authors: Fröhlich Thomas
Published: July 2018

Background

In everyday practice, we do not pay much attention to the words we use. So we do not usually become aware of an ontological difference between the levels of so‐called objects focused upon and person‐centredness. To elucidate this fundamental difference, we contrast here person‐centred medicine (PCM) and a corresponding use of a polycentric grid approach (PCG approach) with the conventional impersonal, objectifying approach. The latter is typically depicted in orthogonal grids, such as charts and lists. This conventional way may be called the Cartesian orthogonal grid approach, or simply Cartesian approach.

Results

A conceptual framework corresponding to PCM is proposed. The PCG approach issues centricity in a formal way and provides a polycentric arrangement of interacting centres. The topic of polycentricity is discussed by the later Nobel Prize‐winner Elinor Ostrom and her husband Victor, concerning management of common goods. The corresponding concept and use of a polycentric grid allow depicting uniqueness and relatedness of interacting centres better than the conventional Cartesian orthogonal grids. The PCG approach outlined here corresponds to the use of different graphic and cartographic procedures, such as the glyph plot. This unconventional form of representation is seen as beneficial in PCM. Practical exercises are developed to enhance awareness of centricity in everyday health care settings. The steps suggested are based on imagination of common tools, such as used in playing darts. Following the practical application, the theoretical background is outlined. It has been published in an extended form and hence can be discussed in a more focused way.

Conclusions

Use of the PCG approach enhances experience and enactment of personhood. It supports PCM in everyday practice. On a theoretical level, the PCG approach has ontological primacy compared with the conventional Cartesian approach. To refer to physical empiric, the decontextualized Cartesian concept needs to be embedded in the empiric polycentric one.
Information processing in electronic medical records: A survey validation
Authors: Williams Cynthia , Hamadi Hanadi , Cummings Cynthia , Zakari Nazik M.A.
Published: July 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to validate the Clinical Information Processing Instrument. This instrument attempts to examine information processing in electronic medical records (EMRs). We drew upon the theory of swift and even flow to guide survey development and construction.

Materials and Methods

We used a mixed‐methods approach to gather data from registered nurses. Nurses were invited to participate in focus groups, an expert panel, and the survey validation process. A semi‐structured questionnaire addressed the following themes: method of communication, quality of information, and usability of the system.

Results

We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis using structural equation modelling. The Kaiser‐Meyer‐Olkin measure was greater than 0.7 (0.90), and the Bartlett's test of sphericity was significant (X2 = 1519.03, df = 105, P < 0.001). The proposed structural equation model was analysed and revised to a final model that was statistically significant. The final survey, Clinical Information Processing Instrument, contained 18 Likert scale questions that supported the tenets of the theory of swift and even flow.

Discussion

The nurses perceived EMRs as efficient for medication management, time management, and communication. The Clinical Information Processing Instrument is a validated survey tool that assesses information flow in EMRs.

Conclusions

The Clinical Information Processing Instrument was validated as an approach to analyse the utility of EMR in disseminating information among clinical staff. To increase the utility and meaningful use of EMR systems, it is important to consider factors that affect the distribution of information among clinicians.
Production of cocoa and carob‐based drink powders by foam mat drying
Authors: Benković Maja , Radić Kristina , Vitali Čepo Dubravka , Jaškūnas Edvinas , Janutis Laurynas , Morkunaite Marija , Srečec Siniša
Published: July 2018

The effect of substitution of cocoa powder with carob and sucrose with stevia, on physical, chemical, and sensory properties of powder drink mixtures was studied. These powders were then subjected to foam mat drying to produce easily solvable instant powders and to determine the effect of the process on their physical, chemical, and sensory characteristics. The addition of carob flour to cocoa/sugar mixtures caused a decrease of cohesion index and mean cake strength, which is beneficial for powder handling. Foam mat drying process led to further improvement of physical properties. To obtain a mixture with good physical, chemical, and sensory characteristics, only a small part of cocoa powder can be replaced by carob flour (up to 10%). Overall, the foam mat drying process leads to formulation of a product with better physical and sensory characteristics and can be successfully applied for production of cocoa/carob/sugar drink powders.

Practical applications

Consumer demands for newly developed foods with natural, healthy ingredients is increasing nowadays. Carob flour represents a cheaper alternative to cocoa and due to the presence of naturally occurring carbohydrates represents a raw material with low glycemic index and therefore the exploration of its utilization in instant drink powders is of great significance. On the other hand, the industry seeks cheaper alternatives to spray drying and liophyilisation as the wide spread processes for instant powder production. The foam mat drying process is a simple and economical alternative to spray drying and freeze drying. The results of this study indicate that the foam mat drying process can be successfully used in the cocoa and carob drink powder production because it results in powders with better flow properties, which is favorable in the powder handling industries.
Nutritional status in patients aged over 65 years and its influence on the quantity and type of complications occurring 3, 6 and 12 months after hospitalisation: a clinical prospective study
Authors: Ostrowska J. , Szostak‐Węgierek D. , Jeznach‐Steinhagen A.
Published: July 2018

Background

Malnutrition in hospitalised patients is associated with frequent complications and increased mortality. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of abnormal nutritional status in patients aged over 65 years with a diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases and also to determine its relationship with the duration of hospitalisation and the incidence of complications over 3, 6 and 12 months of observation. A comparison was also made of diagnostic performance between the various classifications used to diagnose abnormal nutritional status.

Methods

In total, 76 patients aged over 65 years with cardiovascular conditions were involved in the study. Abnormal nutritional status was identified on the basis of Mini‐Nutritional Assessment‐Short Form (MNA‐SF) test results, laboratory tests and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) nutritional status assessment criteria. During 3, 6 and 12 months of observation, data were collected concerning the number of re‐hospitalisations and the presence of complications.

Results

Abnormal nutritional status was reported in 78% of participants. Malnutrition, as diagnosed on the basis of laboratory findings and also on the basis of ESPEN criteria comprising the value of fat free mass index (FFMI), was significantly related to prolonged hospitalisation and an increased complication rate. The results of the MNA‐SF test performed at baseline revealed no relationship with the incidence of complications during the first stage of the study.

Conclusions

Abnormal nutritional status was a common phenomenon in the group of patients under investigation. The set of criteria for assessing the nutritional status that had the highest association with the duration of hospitalisation and the incidence of complications includes laboratory tests and ESPEN criteria comprising the value of FFMI.