bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Consumer Perceptions and Awareness of Hospital‐Based Maternity Care Quality Measures
Authors: Maurer Maureen , Firminger Kirsten , Dardess Pam , Ikeler Kourtney , Sofaer Shoshanna , Carman Kristin L.
Published: March 2016

Objective

To explore factors that may influence use of comparative public reports for hospital maternity care.

Data sources

Four focus groups conducted in 2013 with 41 women and preintervention survey data collected in 2014 to 2015 from 245 pregnant women in North Carolina.

Study design

As part of a larger randomized controlled trial, we conducted qualitative formative research to develop an intervention that will be evaluated through pre‐ and postintervention surveys.

Data extraction methods

Analysis of focus group transcripts examined participants' perceptions of high‐quality maternity care and the importance of different quality measures. Quantitative analysis included descriptive results of the preintervention survey and subgroup analyses to examine the impact of race, education, and being a first‐time mom on outcomes.

Principal findings

When describing high‐quality maternity care, participants focused on interactions with providers, including respect for preferences and communication. The importance of quality measures was influenced by the extent to which they focused on babies' health, were perceived as the hospital's responsibility, and were perceived as representing “standard care.” At baseline, 28 percent of survey respondents had used quality information to choose a hospital. Survey respondents were more aware of some quality measures (e.g., breastfeeding support) than others (e.g., episiotomy rates).

Conclusions

Public reporting efforts could help increase relevance of maternity care quality measures by creating measures that reflect women's concerns, clearly explaining the hospital's role in supporting quality care, and showing how available quality measures can inform decisions about childbirth.
Hypolipidemic Activity of Peony Seed Oil Rich in α‐Linolenic, is Mediated Through Inhibition of Lipogenesis and Upregulation of Fatty Acid β‐Oxidation
Authors: Su Jianhui , Ma Chaoyang , Liu Chengxiang , Gao Chuanzhong , Nie Rongjing , Wang Hongxin
Published: March 2016

Peony seed oil (PSO) is a new resource food rich in α‐Linolenic Acid(ALA) (38.66%). The objective of this study was to assess the modulatory effect of PSO on lipid metabolism. Lard oil, safflower oil (SFO), and PSO were fed to wistar rats with 1% cholesterol in the diet for 60 d. Serum and liver lipids showed significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels in PSO fed rats compared to lard oil and SFO fed rats. ALA, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), contents were significantly increased, whereas linoleic acid (LA), arachidonic acid (AA) levels decreased in serum and liver of PSO fed rats. Feeding PSO increased ALA level and decreased n‐6 to n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio. The hypolipidemic result of PSO indicated that PSO participated in the regulation of plasma lipid concentration and cholesterol metabolism in liver. The decreased expression of sterol regulatory element‐binding proteins 1C (SREBP‐1c), acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC), and fatty acid synthase (FAS)‐reduced lipid synthesis; Activation of peroxisome proliferator–activator receptor (PPARα) accompanied by increase of uncoupling protein2 (UP2) and acyl‐CoA oxidase (AOX) stimulated lipid metabolism and exerted an antiobesity effect via increasing energy expenditure for prevention of obesity.
Transmission of Grapevine virus A and Grapevine leafroll‐associated viruses 1 and 3 by Planococcus ficus and Planococcus citri fed on mixed‐infected plants
Authors: Bertin S. , Pacifico D. , Cavalieri V. , Marzachì C. , Bosco D.
Published: March 2016

The Grapevine virus A (GVA) and Grapevine leafroll‐associated viruses 1 and 3 (GLRaV‐1 and GLRaV‐3) are associated with grapevine diseases that induce severe reductions in yield and berry quality. These three viruses are known to coexist in both grapevine and insect vectors, but their cotransmission has been poorly characterised so far. This study investigates the acquisition and transmission of GLRaV‐1, GLRaV‐3 and GVA by Planococcus ficus and Planococcus citri (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) following feeding on multiple‐infected plants. The retention and load of the three viruses in the two insect species were analysed. After feeding onto GVA, GLRaV‐1 and GLRaV‐3 mixed‐infected grapevines, nymphs of P. ficus and P. citri showed similar virus acquisition rates and retained low quantities of viruses until the third post‐acquisition day. Despite the similar acquisition patterns, the two vectors differed in transmission efficiency: P. ficus showed a higher efficiency in transmitting GVA and GLRaV‐3, whereas P. citri transmitted GLRaV‐1 more efficiently. When focusing on the virus cotransmission, it appears that GVA could be transmitted to grapevine without GLRaV‐1 and/or GLRaV‐3 and that the transmission of both GLRaVs could take place in the absence of GVA. This comparative study involving different viruses and vector species improves the current knowledge of the semi‐persistent transmission of these three viruses and contributes to the understanding of grapevine virus epidemiology.
Predicting free‐roaming cat population densities in urban areas
Authors: Flockhart D. T. T. , Norris D. R. , Coe J. B.
Published: March 2016

Although free‐roaming cats can have a significant impact on the environment, and substantial resources have been invested to find humane alternatives for managing free‐roaming cat populations, there are no empirical estimates of free‐roaming cat population size in medium to large cities. In addition, little is known about factors limiting free‐roaming cat population size and distribution. Using Guelph, ON, Canada (pop: 120 000; 86.7 km2) as a case‐study, we apply replicated distance transect sampling and likelihood‐based hierarchical modelling to compare human‐mediated landscape patterns of land use, distance to roads, distance to wooded areas, building density and socio‐economic status to explain the abundance of free‐roaming cats. We then derive an empirical estimate of total population size and present a spatially explicit prediction of free‐roaming cat density across an entire city. Cat abundance was highest in residential areas and lowest in commercial and institutional areas, negatively related to median household income, and positively related to distance from woods and building density. Total population size was estimated to be 7662 (95% bootstrap CI: 6145–9966) for Guelph; free‐roaming cat density varied from 0 to 49.4 cats per ha. Our estimate overlapped with an independent estimate of indoor‐outdoor cats (11 927; 95% CI: 6361–20 989) derived from random surveys of city residents, which implies our distance transect methodology was relatively robust and unbiased. Our approach used simple geographical information that is readily available for most urban areas in North America and can be applied broadly to inform cat management in urban areas. Finally, our results suggest that free‐roaming cat density in cities could be determined by bottom‐up processes (e.g. enhanced food availability in residential areas) as well as top‐down processes (e.g. enhanced susceptibility to coyote predation near wooded areas) which are typically reserved to explain wildlife populations in natural environments.
Asking better questions about clinical skills training
Authors: Miller William R. , Moyers Theresa B.
Published: March 2016

Commentary to: After 30 years of dissemination, have we achieved sustained practice change in motivational interviewing?
Bone fractures: assessment and management
Authors: Lim L , Sirichai P
Published: March 2016

Severe dental traumatic injuries often involve the supporting bone and soft tissues. This article outlines the current concepts in the management of dentoalveolar fractures for the general dental practitioner with case reports to illustrate management principles and techniques.
Implications of the BIA‐102474‐101 study for review of first‐into‐human clinical trials
Authors: Eddleston Michael , Cohen Adam F. , Webb David J.
Published: March 2016

Over the past 10 years, thousands of first‐into‐human (FIH) clinical trials have been performed in Europe, with few severe adverse events (SAEs). Each has received detailed prior safety review at both the local clinical research facility and at national drug regulatory authority level. The recent fatal SAE in the BIA‐102474‐101 clinical trial shows the limitations of this process. Although criticized for not sequentially dosing subjects both within and between cohorts – as recommended by the European Medicines Agency for high‐risk compounds after the TeGenero clinical trial disaster in 2006 – BIA‐102474‐101 was not considered to be high risk. Indeed, compounds with similar mechanisms of action had previously been taken through phase I and II trials without incident, and higher doses had been safely given for longer durations to nonhuman primates. If the available data are comprehensive and accurate, and further investigation does not reveal unreported warning signs, this study has serious implications for ongoing and future review of FIH clinical trials. All preclinical study documents and clinical data collected during the BIA‐102474‐101 trial should be made available urgently so that lessons can be learnt. In the meantime, reviewers and clinical researchers should always ask for information on drug and target interactions and full reports of preclinical toxicity studies, and plan sequential dosing with longer delays between patients and cohorts, particularly if late SAEs might be anticipated. The use of individual patient pharmacokinetic and dynamic data should guide sequential dosing. A process for systematic risk assessment, like that currently used in the Netherlands, should be applied routinely to all trials with novel compounds.
Changing patterns in paediatric optic atrophy aetiology: 1979 to 2015
Authors: Zheng Linda , Do Helen Hyun‐Jin , Sandercoe Trent , Jamieson Robyn V , Grigg John R
Published: March 2016

Background

To evaluate the aetiology of paediatric optic atrophy in an Australian population.

Design

Retrospective review of medical records was conducted at The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.

Participants

Two hundred twenty‐seven subjects <16 years who were diagnosed with optic atrophy on fundoscopic examination between 1979 and 2015 were included in the study.

Methods

Subjects were obtained from the hospital database, which codes diagnoses for all admissions, as well as the orthoptic department database, which codes diagnoses for ophthalmology department outpatients.

Main Outcome Measures

The predominant cause for optic atrophy was assigned to each patient. Clinical presentation was defined as the principal reason for evaluation. Demographic data included gender, affected eye and age at diagnosis. Data on medical comorbidities (cerebral palsy, developmental delay, microcephaly and seizures) and ocular comorbidities (strabismus and nystagmus) were collected.

Results

The mean age at initial eye review was 4.7 ± 4.4 years. There was bilateral optic atrophy in 81.5% of cases. Unilateral optic atrophy was largely due to tumours. When analysing over the three time periods, (1979–1990, 1991–2003 and 2004–2015), perinatal events (3.0%, 22.7% and 22.6%) and neurodegenerative disease (3.0%, 14.9% and 15.1%) are slowly replacing tumours (39.4%, 24.8% and 15.1%) as the top causes for paediatric optic atrophy. The incidence of other causes has remained fairly stable over time, albeit an increase in idiopathic causes.

Conclusions

There has been shift in the etiological profile of optic atrophy. Whilst tumours are still an important cause of paediatric optic atrophy for an Australian population, perinatal events and neurodegenerative disease are becoming more significant.
Analysis copy number variation of Chinese children in early‐onset epileptic encephalopathies with unknown cause
Authors: Ma Y. , Chen C. , Wang Y. , Wu L. , He F. , Chen C. , Zhang C. , Deng X. , Yang L. , Chen Y. , Wu L. , Yin F. , Peng J.
Published: March 2016

Copy number variations (CNVs) play an important role in the genetic etiology of unknown cause early‐onset epileptic encephalopathies (EOEEs), but the genomic CNVs analysis of Chinese EOEEs children was rare. Here, we identified CNVs by single nucleotide polymorphism array in 116 patients with different subtypes of EOEEs. Of 116 patients 17 (14.66%) carried 19 large CNVs. A total of 14 CNVs in 12 patients were further validated: four of the CNVs were classified as de novo, seven were maternal, and three were paternal. Follow‐up of those 12 patients showed that 5 had been seizure‐free for at least 9 months, 5 had seizures several times per month or per year, and 2 had seizures everyday. But eight patients have profound developmental delay. In this study, we found at least 3.4% of patients had pathogenic CNVs. For the patients, our study laid the foundation for prenatal interventions for their families. Further, we identified potential candidate gene involved in EOEEs. The association of CNVs and clinical features will contribute to the understanding of EOEEs.
The influence of three different apical implant designs at stability and osseointegration process: experimental study in rabbits
Authors: Gehrke Sergio A. , Pérez‐Albacete Martínez Carlos , Piattelli Adriano , Shibli Jamil A. , Markovic Aleksa , Calvo Guirado José L.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to perform a histomorphometric and biomechanical comparison of three implants with different designs of the apical area to promote a better bone initial stability and its correlation with the osseointegration.

Material and methods

Fifty‐four tapered implants with same length, diameter and surface properties but with three different apical configurations (Group I: MK4: Group II: C1 and Group III: MK7) were inserted in the tibia of rabbits. Implant stability and bone formation were evaluated by resonance frequency analysis measured at 0, 6, 8 and 12 weeks and by histomorphometric analysis performed at 6, 8 and 12 weeks.

Results

Statistical test to compare the stability through the implant stability quotient in the four times showed few differences between the groups and time periods proposed, with significance set at P < 0.05. In the bone–implant contact, by comparing the groups in the three times proposed, it was possible concluded that there is a similar behavior among the three implant design (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

With the limitations of this animal study, it can be concluded that the design of the apical area influences the implant stability and the bone‐to‐implant contact.
Stem cell therapy: a promising biological strategy for tendon–bone healing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Hao Zi‐Chen , Wang Shan‐Zheng , Zhang Xue‐Jun , Lu Jun
Published: March 2016

Tendon–bone healing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a complex process, impacting significantly on patients' prognosis. Natural tendon–bone healing usually results in fibrous scar tissue, which is of inferior quality compared to native attachment. In addition, the early formed fibrous attachment after surgery is often not reliable to support functional rehabilitation, which may lead to graft failure or unsatisfied function of the knee joint. Thus, strategies to promote tendon–bone healing are crucial for prompt and satisfactory functional recovery. Recently, a variety of biological approaches, including active substances, gene transfer, tissue engineering and stem cells, have been proposed and applied to enhance tendon–bone healing. Among these, stem cell therapy has been shown to have promising prospects and draws increasing attention. From commonly investigated bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs) to emerging ACL‐derived CD34+ stem cells, multiple stem cell types have been proven to be effective in accelerating tendon–bone healing. This review describes the current understanding of tendon–bone healing and summarizes the current status of related stem cell therapy. Future limitations and perspectives are also discussed.
Spillover Effects of United States’ Unconventional Monetary Policy on Korean Bond Markets: Evidence from High‐Frequency Data
Authors: Park Ki Young , Um Ji Yong
Published: March 2016

We empirically investigate the effects of US unconventional monetary policy (UMP) on Korean bond markets using a high‐frequency event‐study approach. We find that: (1) Not every instance of UMP‐related news affects the domestic bond yields at daily frequency; (2) UMP news affects only short‐term foreign bond investment with high‐frequency arbitrage opportunities; (3) Factor analysis suggests that net foreign bond investment is affected more by expectation on future US short‐term policy rates compared to long‐term risk premia in the US Treasury market; and (4) Credit default swap premium for South Korea, proxi of local risk factor, also affects net foreign bond investment. Based on our empirical findings, we conclude that, while push factors do not dominate pull factors, the Korean bond market is not a “safe haven” from the normalization of US monetary policy and regulators should examine closely the share and composition of foreign bond investment.
Unconventional Monetary Policy, Global Liquidity Circulation, and Inflation Divergence around the World
Authors: Sung Taeyoon , Kim Jong‐Hee
Published: March 2016

In the aftermath of the global financial crisis, central banks in advanced economies adopted unconventional monetary policies such as quantitative easing, in addition to conventional policies like low interest rates. However, the increase in global liquidity in terms of key international currencies, driven by unconventional monetary policies, has led some emerging economies to move toward inflation and unstable capital markets. This means that there could be a global divergence of inflation between advanced and emerging economies. This inflation divergence also appears between emerging economies. The emerging economies, distinguished by capital flow control or current account surplus, have little inflation pressure. We suggest that the global divergence of inflation is related to both domestic and international liquidity circulation velocities. In particular, capital control or current account plays a role in determining the velocity of global liquidity circulation.
Effects of Quantitative Easing Monetary Policy Exit Strategy on East Asian Currencies
Authors: Ogawa Eiji , Wang Zhiqian
Published: March 2016

With the end of the Federal Reserve Board's quantitative easing monetary policy, it is expected that the federal funds rate will be raised from almost 0% in the near future. We investigate the effects of changes in monetary policy, especially the effects of raising interest rates in the United States on East Asian currencies. Specifically, we use data on interest rates as a monetary policy instrument to investigate how changes in the US interest rates affect interest rates, exchange rates, and capital flows in East Asian emerging market economies. The analytical results suggest that East Asian countries would face capital outflows that depreciate their home currencies, with upward pressure against their own interest rates when the Federal Reserve Board raises the interest rate.
Theological Complicity in the Disappearing of the Working Class
Authors: Posadas Jeremy
Published: March 2016

Contrary to popular perception, the majority of the United States population belongs to the working class, not the middle class (even under different definitions of class). But in the discourses of policy‐making, popular culture, and Christian theological scholarship alike, the working class has almost completely disappeared—which contributes to deifying economic and political inequalities. To counteract this disappearance, class must be established as a constructive theological locus, and justice for the working class (qua working class) established as both ethical norm and practical objective.
Representation of people of South Asian origin in cardiovascular outcome trials of glucose‐lowering therapies in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Khunti K. , Bellary S. , Karamat M. A. , Patel K. , Patel V. , Jones A. , Gray J. , Shepherd P. , Hanif W. ,   the South Asian Health Foundation
Published: March 2016

Aims

Our aim was to investigate the proportional representation of people of South Asian origin in cardiovascular outcome trials of glucose‐lowering drugs or strategies in Type 2 diabetes, noting that these are among the most significant pieces of evidence used to formulate the guidelines on which clinical practice is largely based.

Methods

We searched for cardiovascular outcome trials in Type 2 diabetes published before January 2015, and extracted data on the ethnicity of participants. These were compared against expected values for proportional representation of South Asian individuals, based on population data from the USA, from the UK, and globally.

Results

Twelve studies met our inclusion criteria and, of these, eight presented a sufficiently detailed breakdown of participant ethnicity to permit numerical analysis. In general, people of South Asian origin were found to be under‐represented in trials compared with UK and global expectations and over‐represented compared with US expectations. Among the eight trials for which South Asian representation could be reliably estimated, seven under‐represented this group relative to the 11.2% of the UK diabetes population estimated to be South Asian, with the representation in these trials ranging from 0.0% to 10.0%.

Conclusions

Clinicians should exercise caution when generalizing the results of trials to their own practice, with regard to the ethnicity of individuals. Efforts should be made to improve reporting of ethnicity and improve diversity in trial recruitment, although we acknowledge that there are challenges that must be overcome to make this a reality.
Insulin pump use compared with intravenous insulin during labour and delivery: the INSPIRED observational cohort study
Authors: Drever E. , Tomlinson G. , Bai A. D. , Feig D. S.
Published: March 2016

Aims

To assess the safety and efficacy of pump therapy (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion; CSII) during labour and delivery in women with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 161 consecutive Type 1 diabetic pregnancies delivered during 2000–2010 at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada. Capillary blood glucose levels during labour and delivery and time in/out of target (target: 4–6 mmol/l) were compared along with neonatal outcomes for three groups: (1) women on pumps who stayed on pumps during labour (pump/pump n = 31), (2) women on pumps who switched to intravenous (IV) insulin infusion during labour (pump/IVn = 25), and (3) women on multiple daily injections who switched to IV insulin infusion during labour (MDIn = 105).

Results

There were no significant differences between the mean or median glucose values during labour and delivery across all three groups, and no significant difference in time spent hypoglycaemic. However, women in the pump/pump group had significantly better glycaemic control as defined by mean glucose (5.5 vs. 6.4 mmol/l; P = 0.01), median glucose (5.4 vs. 6.3 mmol/l; P = 0.02), and more time spent in target (60.9% vs. 39.2%; P = 0.06) compared with women in the pump/IV group (after removing one outlier).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the continuation of CSII therapy during labour and delivery appears safe and efficacious. Moreover, women who choose to continue CSII have better glucose control during delivery than those who switch to IV insulin, suggesting that it should be standard practice to allow women the option of continuing CSII during labour and delivery.
COMMUNICATION AND COORDINATION IN A TWO‐STAGE GAME
Authors: Bjedov Tjaša , Madiès Thierry , Villeval Marie Claire
Published: March 2016

We study the impact of communication on behavior in a two‐stage coordination game with asymmetric payoffs. We test experimentally whether individuals can avoid a head‐to‐head confrontation by means of coordinated strategies. In particular we analyze whether and how quickly a conflict‐avoidance take turn strategy can emerge. First, our results show that players learn to solve the conflict by choosing opposite options at both stages of the game. Second, many adopt a take turn strategy to sustain coordination over time and alleviate the inequality induced by the asymmetry of payoffs. Third, communication increases the likelihood of conflict resolution regardless of whether communication is unilateral or bilateral. (JEL C91, D74, L15, H71)
Functional and structural characterization of a potent GH74 endo‐xyloglucanase from the soil saprophyte Cellvibrio japonicus unravels the first step of xyloglucan degradation
Authors: Attia Mohamed , Stepper Judith , Davies Gideon J. , Brumer Harry
Published: March 2016

The heteropolysaccharide xyloglucan (XyG) comprises up to one‐quarter of the total carbohydrate content of terrestrial plant cell walls and, as such, represents a significant reservoir in the global carbon cycle. The complex composition of XyG requires a consortium of backbone‐cleaving endo‐xyloglucanases and side‐chain cleaving exo‐glycosidases for complete saccharification. The biochemical basis for XyG utilization by the model Gram‐negative soil saprophytic bacterium Cellvibrio japonicus is incompletely understood, despite the recent characterization of associated side‐chain cleaving exo‐glycosidases. We present a detailed functional and structural characterization of a multimodular enzyme encoded by gene locus CJA_2477. The CJA_2477 gene product comprises an N‐terminal glycoside hydrolase family 74 (GH74) endo‐xyloglucanase module in train with two carbohydrate‐binding modules (CBMs) from families 10 and 2 (CBM10 and CBM2). The GH74 catalytic domain generates Glc4‐based xylogluco‐oligosaccharide (XyGO) substrates for downstream enzymes through an endo‐dissociative mode of action. X‐ray crystallography of the GH74 module, alone and in complex with XyGO products spanning the entire active site, revealed a broad substrate‐binding cleft specifically adapted to XyG recognition, which is composed of two seven‐bladed propeller domains characteristic of the GH74 family. The appended CBM10 and CBM2 members notably did not bind XyG, nor other soluble polysaccharides, and instead were specific cellulose‐binding modules. Taken together, these data shed light on the first step of xyloglucan utilization by C. japonicus and expand the repertoire of GHs and CBMs for selective biomass analysis and utilization.

Database

Structural data have been deposited in the RCSB protein database under the Protein Data Bank codes: 5FKR, 5FKS, 5FKT and 5FKQ.
Revealing turning points in ecosystem functioning over the Northern Eurasian agricultural frontier
Authors: Horion Stéphanie , Prishchepov Alexander V. , Verbesselt Jan , de Beurs Kirsten , Tagesson Torbern , Fensholt Rasmus
Published: March 2016

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 has been a turning point in the World history that left a unique footprint on the Northern Eurasian ecosystems. Conducting large scale mapping of environmental change and separating between naturogenic and anthropogenic drivers is a difficult endeavor in such highly complex systems. In this research a piece‐wise linear regression method was used for breakpoint detection in Rain‐Use Efficiency (RUE) time series and a classification of ecosystem response types was produced. Supported by earth observation data, field data, and expert knowledge, this study provides empirical evidence regarding the occurrence of drastic changes in RUE (assessment of the timing, the direction and the significance of these changes) in Northern Eurasian ecosystems between 1982 and 2011. About 36% of the study area (3.4 million km2) showed significant (P < 0.05) trends and/or turning points in RUE during the observation period. A large proportion of detected turning points in RUE occurred around the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 and in the following years which were attributed to widespread agricultural land abandonment. Our study also showed that recurrent droughts deeply affected vegetation productivity throughout the observation period, with a general worsening of the drought conditions in recent years. Moreover, recent human‐induced turning points in ecosystem functioning were detected and attributed to ongoing recultivation and change in irrigation practices in the Volgograd region, and to increased salinization and increased grazing intensity around Lake Balkhash. The ecosystem‐state assessment method introduced here proved to be a valuable support that highlighted hotspots of potentially altered ecosystems and allowed for disentangling human from climatic disturbances.
Association of peak factor VIII levels and area under the curve with bleeding in patients with haemophilia A on every third day pharmacokinetic‐guided prophylaxis
Authors: Valentino L. A. , Pipe S. W. , Collins P. W. , Blanchette V. S. , Berntorp E. , Fischer K. , Ewenstein B. M. , Oh M. , Spotts G.
Published: March 2016

Introduction

We previously showed that pharmacokinetic‐guided prophylaxis (PKP) allows the dosing interval to be extended while maintaining a specific trough level. However, the associations of peak factor VIII (FVIII) levels and area under the curve (AUC) with breakthrough bleeding have not been investigated.

Aim

The aim of this study was to analyse data from the PKP arm to determine whether peak FVIII levels, AUC and time with FVIII levels in a haemostatically effective range are independent predictors of bleeding during prophylaxis.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of the association of FVIII levels and AUC with annualized bleeding rate in 34 patients on PKP.

Results

During 1 year of PKP, 131 bleeding episodes occurred in 24/34 patients. Average peak FVIII levels ranged from 24 to 168 IU dL−1, with higher values associated with a decreased risk for all bleeding (joint and non‐joint; P < 0.01) and joint bleeding (P < 0.01). Following rFVIII infusion, median percent of time spent with FVIII levels >20 IU dL−1 was 22%; median AUC was 1363. Both values were significantly associated with a lower ABR when targeting a 1% trough at 72 h.

Conclusion

When PKP was administered every third day, higher peak FVIII levels, higher AUC and more time spent per week with FVIII levels >20 IU dL−1 provided increased protection from joint and non‐joint bleeding. These data highlight the potential impact of variability in individual pharmacokinetic and bleeding risk and support the need for high peak levels and AUC in some patients treated every third day. The findings do not necessarily apply to alternate‐day or other prophylactic dosing regimens.
Hemicrania continua may respond to repetitive sphenopalatine ganglion block: A case report
Authors: Michelle Androulakis X. , Krebs Kaitlin A. , Ashkenazi Avi
Published: March 2016

Background

Hemicrania continua (HC) is a chronic headache disorder characterized by a continuous, strictly unilateral head pain accompanied by cranial autonomic symptoms, which completely responds to indomethacin; however, few alternative treatment options exist for the patients with this disorder who cannot tolerate indomethacin. Sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block has been used for the treatment of various headaches, with the strongest evidence for efficacy in cluster headache.

Case Report

A 52‐year‐old woman with a 7‐year history of HC was evaluated in our clinic for management of her headaches after she had stopped using indomethacin due to a bleeding gastrointestinal ulcer. After failing multiple pharmacologic therapies, she was treated with repetitive SPG blocks using bupivacaine (0.6 mL at 0.5%) twice a week for 6 weeks and followed by maintenance therapy. This treatment protocol resulted in significant improvement in her headaches, mood, and functional capacity.

Conclusion

SPG block using a local anesthetic may be an effective treatment for patients with HC, specifically for those who cannot tolerate indomethacin, or when this drug is contraindicated.
Clinical psychologists' attitudes towards the biology and ‘new genetics’ of intellectual and developmental disabilities: a pilot study using Q‐methodology
Authors: Hare D.J. , Vahey C. , Walker S. , Wittkowski A.
Published: March 2016

Background

The current study investigated how ideas and models from the ‘New Genetics’ and associated fields of developmental neuroscience and behavioural phenotypes are perceived by clinical psychologists working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As well as examining the take‐up and influence of such ideas, it also examines barriers, both personal and institutional, to the widespread adoption of such concepts and research findings in services for people with IDD.

Methods

A Q‐methodology study was undertaken with 31 qualified and 16 trainee clinical psychologists in the North West of England using a specifically developed 81‐item Q set.

Results

Three factors were identified and labelledIntegration of social and medical models, Social model of disability is more helpfulandGenetic advances in conflict with recognising the value of people with IDD.

Conclusion

There was a lack of consensus in clinical psychologists working with people with IDD, with amount and type of professional experience affecting the factor loadings, which may need to be considered in developing clinical applications of genetic IDD research.
Effect of Early Overfeeding on Palatable Food Preference and Brain Dopaminergic Reward System at Adulthood: Role of Calcium Supplementation
Authors: Conceição E. P. S. , Carvalho J. C. , Manhães A. C. , Guarda D. S. , Figueiredo M. S. , Quitete F. T. , Oliveira E. , Moura E. G. , Lisboa P. C.
Published: March 2016

Rats raised in small litters (SL) are obese and hyperphagic. In the present study, we evaluated whether obesity is associated with changes in the mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic reward system in these animals at adulthood. We also assessed the anti‐obesity effects of dietary calcium supplementation. To induce early overfeeding, litters were adjusted to three pups on postnatal day (PN)3 (SL group). Control litters were kept with 10 pups each until weaning (NL group). On PN120, SL animals were subdivided into two groups: SL (standard diet) and SL‐Ca [SL with calcium supplementation (10 g calcium carbonate/kg rat chow) for 60 days]. On PN175, animals were subjected to a food challenge: animals could choose between a high‐fat (HFD) or a high‐sugar diet (HSD). Food intake was recorded after 30 min and 12 h. Euthanasia occurred on PN180. SL rats had higher food intake, body mass and central adiposity. Sixty days of dietary calcium supplementation (SL‐Ca) prevented these changes. Only SL animals preferred the HFD at 12 h. Both SL groups had lower tyrosine hydroxylase content in the ventral tegmental area, lower dopaminergic transporter content in the nucleus accumbens, and higher type 2 dopamine receptor (D2R) content in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC). They also had higher neuropeptide Y (NPY) and lower pro‐opiomelanocortin contents in the ARC. Calcium treatment normalised only D2R and NPY contents. Precocious obesity induces long‐term effects in the brain dopaminergic system, which can be associated with an increased preference for fat at adulthood. Calcium treatment prevents this last alteration, partially through its actions on ARC D2R and NPY proteins.
Farmers or Squatters? Collective Land Claims on Sisal Estates, Tanzania (1980s–2000s)
Authors: Greco Elisa
Published: March 2016

This paper offers a historically grounded analysis of the land question by analysing the political history of collective land claims in sisal estates in Tanga region, in north‐east Tanzania. The persistence of sisal plantations amidst failed attempts at land redistribution is explored by drawing on primary research in villages in the vicinity of three privatized sisal estates. I situate collective land claims in the wider politics of African socialism (ujamaa), to then explain their gradual demise throughout the 1990s as a consequence of neoliberal policies such as privatization and liberalization. Throughout the 2000s, the subsequent allocation of contested lands to commercial sisal contract farmers has fuelled further land disputes. An account of land claims over time, coupled with a class analysis of sisal contract farming, underlines the continuing relevance of the land question in areas of historical land dispossession.
Long‐Term Clinical Outcomes of a Biodegradable Polymer‐Based Biolimus‐Eluting Stent
Authors: Im Eui , Kim Gwang‐Sil , Shin Dong‐Ho , Kim Jung‐Sun , Kim Byeong‐Keuk , Ko Young‐Guk , Choi Donghoon , Jang Yangsoo , Hong Myeong‐Ki
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To investigate the long‐term clinical outcomes of biolimus‐eluting stents with biodegradable polymers in real‐world clinical practice.

Background

Long‐term clinical outcomes of biolimus‐eluting stents have not been clearly established.

Methods

A total of 824 all‐comer patients (971 lesions) treated with unrestricted implantation of a biolimus‐eluting stent with a biodegradable polymer were prospectively enrolled. Patients were divided into complex (413 patients) versus noncomplex (411 patients) groups according to the complexity of coronary lesions. Long‐term clinical outcomes for stent efficacy (target lesion revascularization) and safety (composite of cardiac death, target lesion‐related myocardial infarction, and definite or probable stent thrombosis) were compared between the two groups during 5 years of follow‐up.

Results

The complex group showed higher rates of decreased left ventricular ejection fraction, impaired renal function, previous history of myocardial infarction, and diabetes mellitus compared to the noncomplex group. In the overall population, the 5‐year cumulative rate of target lesion revascularization was 4.8% (8.3% in the complex group vs 1.6% in the noncomplex group, P < 0.001). For stent safety, the 5‐year cumulative rate for a composite of cardiac death, target lesion‐related myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis was 2.5% overall (3.9% in the complex group vs 1.1% in the noncomplex group, P = 0.010). Overall 5‐year cumulative rate of stent thrombosis was 0.4% (0.5% in the complex vs 0.2% in the noncomplex group, P = 0.561) with no very late stent thrombosis (VLST).

Conclusions

Biodegradable polymer‐based biolimus‐eluting stents showed favorable efficacy and safety in all‐comer patients during 5 years of follow‐up. (J Interven Cardiol 2016;29:162–167)
Mid‐Term Outcomes after Percutaneous Closure of the Secundum Atrial Septal Defect with the Figulla‐Occlutech Device
Authors: Pedra Carlos A. C. , Pedra SIMONE F. , Costa Rodrigo N. , Ribeiro Marcelo S. , Nascimento Wanda , Campanhã Luis Otávio S. , Santana M. Virginia T. , Jatene IEDA B. , Assef Jorge E. , Fontes Valmir F.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the mid‐term outcomes after percutaneous closure of the secundum atrial septal defects (ASD) using the Figulla‐Occlutech device (FOD).

Background

Transcatheter closure has become the method of choice for most patients with ASD. Although the FOD may have some advantageous characteristics there is a paucity of data on later outcomes after the use of this relatively new device.

Methods

Observational, single arm study including 200 non‐consecutive patients who underwent ASD closure between 04/09 and 07/15 in 2 centers. Device performance, deployment technique, and immediate and mid‐term outcomes were assessed.

Results

Median age and weight were 24 years (4–72) and 58 kg (15–92), respectively. Single defects were observed in 171 patients (median size of 19 mm). The remainder had multiple or multifenestrated defects. Implantation of FOD (median size of 24 mm) was successful in all (99%), but 2 patients (1 with deficient postero–inferior rim; 1 with a large ASD for the size of the child). Embolization with device retrieval occurred in 2 (1%). Median follow‐up of 36 months was obtained in 172 patients. Serial echocardiographic assessment showed complete closure in all but 2 patients, in whom an additional small non‐significant posterior defect was purposely left untouched. There have been no episodes of late arrhythmias, device embolization, cardiac erosion, endocarditis, thromboembolism, wire fracture, or death.

Conclusions

Transcatheter closure of ASDs in older children, adolescents, and adults using the FOD was highly successful in a wide range of anatomical scenarios with high closure rates and no complications in mid‐term follow‐up. (J Interven Cardiol 2016;29:208–215)
Mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways are required for melatonin‐mediated defense responses in plants
Authors: Lee Hyoung Yool , Back Kyoungwhan
Published: March 2016

Melatonin enhances pathogen resistance by inducing the expression of a number of plant defense‐related genes. To examine whether the melatonin‐mediated pathogen resistance is associated with mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, Arabidopsis and tobacco leaves were treated with melatonin and investigated for MAPK activation using an antiphospho‐p44/42 MAPK (Erk1/2) monoclonal antibody. Two MAPKs, MPK3 and MPK6, were activated rapidly and transiently by 1 μm melatonin treatment in Arabidopsis. Its tobacco ortholog MAPKs were also activated. The activation of MPK3 and MPK6 by 2‐hydroxymelatonin and N‐acetylserotonin was also observed, albeit to a lesser degree than that by melatonin. Furthermore, MAPK activation by melatonin was uncoupled from G‐protein signaling, because melatonin efficiently activated two MAPKs in a G‐protein β knockout mutant (agb1). Suppression of both MPK3 and MPK6 in transgenic Arabidopsis exhibited significant decreases in the induction of defense‐related gene expression and pathogen resistance relative to wild‐type plants. Using an array of MAP kinase kinase (MKK) knockout mutants, we found that four MKKs, namely MKK4, MKK5, MKK7, and MKK9, are responsible for the activation of MPK3 and MPK6 by melatonin, indicating that melatonin‐mediated innate immunity is triggered by MAPK signaling through MKK4/5/7/9‐MPK3/6 cascades.
Endoscopic Evaluation of Angiogenesis in the Large Airways of Horses with Heaves Using Narrow Band Imaging
Authors: Herteman N. , Bullone M. , Lavoie J.‐P.
Published: March 2016

Background

Heaves is a severe debilitating condition of horses, characterized by lower airway inflammation and permanent structural changes of the bronchial wall. Chronic inflammation promotes the formation of new vessels, a phenomenon known as angiogenesis. Narrow band imaging (NBI) endoscopy is a noninvasive technique that enhances the visualization of submucosal vessels, and commonly is employed for the study of angiogenesis in human patients.

Objectives

Using NBI, we aimed to determine whether or not the central airways of horses with heaves undergo angiogenesis.

Animals

Horses with heaves during exacerbation of the disease (n = 5) and healthy controls (n = 6).

Methods

A library of NBI images was established from previously recorded videoendoscopies. Images were acquired by an operator blinded to horse ID. Images were obtained from 3 sites: 130 from the trachea (14 ± 9.3 [mean ± SD] images per horse with heaves and 10 ± 5.4 from controls; P = .45), 58 from the carina (5.4 ± 3.2 from horses with heaves and 5.2 ± 2.8 fromn controls; P > .99) and 167 from the intermediate bronchi (17.8 ± 6.7 from horses with heaves and 13 ± 5.6 from controls; P = .17). Using dedicated stereology software (NewCAST, Visiopharm; Denmark), the volume density of superficial and deep vessels was calculated blindly by point counting at each site for all horses.

Results

In the trachea, the volume density of superficial vessels was increased in horses with heaves compared to controls (P = .02). No difference was found between groups for the volume density of both superficial and deep vessels at the carina or intermediate bronchi.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

NBI imaging of the airways was easily performed in standing sedated horses.
Raising the question: articulating the Dutch identity crisis through public debate
Authors: van Reekum Rogier
Published: March 2016

In place of a ‘tolerant no more’ narrative, this article proposes a different conception of nationalism's re‐articulation in the Dutch context. The salience of nationhood in public and political life, particularly concerning issues of immigration, religion and diversity, is not reconstructed as a backlash against a purported multiculturalism. Instead, attention is given to a re‐articulation of the very notion of nationhood. A long‐term historical move away from characterology is assessed and applied in understanding the emergence of a national‐identity discourse. This discourse not merely embellishes talk of Dutchness with new terms, but indicates – so the articles aim to demonstrate – a different conception of nationhood all together. Apart from what the nation is – about which very little disagreement took place – discussions formed about how Dutchness was imagined and to what extent people themselves were able to form a national image. The emergence of national‐identity discourse is empirically reconstructed. Not only is it made clear how a logic of popularity begins to be reiterated across a variety of positionings, but public debate and dissensus acquire a new significance and performativity in the process.
Using an awakening narrative to leave behind a former national‐identity: an investigation of the conversion of national‐identity in Taiwan
Authors: Yeh Hsin‐Yi
Published: March 2016

National‐identity has become a civil religion and a major source of how people define themselves. Changing one's nationality thus is a salient event/social process in today's society; therefore, people's nationality conversion deserves more academic attention. Treating the convert as a social type and regarding people's self‐reports (or converts' accounts) as topics for analysis, this article examines the Taiwan case to illuminate how people tell their stories of converting nationality. ‘Converts’ usually employed an awakening narrative to leave their former national‐identity behind: For example, the ‘awakening’ plot is readily apparent, a huge contrast between a previous ‘wrong’ self and a current ‘correct’ self is mentioned, and the ‘awakening’ is delineated as an achievement. The symbolic awakening is harnessed as a strategic tool to create discontinuity autobiographically, to justify one's major change, to ensure that one's cognitive security remains intact, and to call for more awakenings. This article further notes that, since narrative itself is a practice, people always have ‘a self in the making’ which determines (and is determined by) how people (re)tell their life stories. Moreover, in Taiwan's case, we see that ‘awakeners’ usually admired early awakeners but blamed late awakeners (which constitutes an interesting triadic group relationship); people may also describe their experience of having multiple awakenings before the ‘grand’ awakening (‘Awakening’). © The author(s) 2015. Nations and Nationalism © ASEN/John Wiley & Sons Ltd 2015
‘We are the new Jews!’ and ‘The Jewish Lobby’ – antisemitism and the construction of a national identity by the Austrian Freedom Party
Authors: Stoegner Karin
Published: March 2016

In this article I will analyse the role of antisemitism for the construction of a national identity and an exclusive national in‐group in the discourse of the Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ). The analysis will show that this discourse of the FPÖ, one of the most successful extreme right‐wing parties in Europe, utilises various forms of Holocaust inversion and victim perpetrator reversal in order to delegitimise political opponents. The analysis of these incidents and of the legitimising strategies used by the FPÖ when criticised involves discussing the increasing abstraction of the codes characteristic of latent antisemitism and forms of post‐Nazi antisemitism. I will focus on how the FPÖ's use of the term Holocaust and other terms referring to Nazi atrocities against the Jews corresponds to a universalisation of the term Holocaust in social constellations that are permeated by the culture industry.