bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synovial sarcoma cell lines showed reduced DNA repair activity and sensitivity to a PARP inhibitor
Authors: Yamasaki Hiroyuki , Miyamoto Mamiko , Yamamoto Yuki , Kondo Tadashi , Watanabe Toshiki , Ohta Tsutomu
Published: June 2016

Synovial sarcoma is a soft‐tissue sarcoma and a rare type of cancer. Unfortunately, effective chemotherapies for synovial sarcomas have not been established. In this report, we show that synovial sarcoma cell lines have reduced repair activity for DNA damage induced by ionizing radiation (IR) and a topoisomerase II inhibitor (etoposide). We also observed reduced recruitment of RAD51 homologue (S. cerevisiae; RAD51) at sites of double‐strand breaks (DSBs) in synovial sarcoma cell lines that had been exposed to IR. These findings showed that synovial sarcoma cell lines are defective in homologous recombination (HR) repair. Furthermore, we found that a poly‐(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor (AZD2281; olaparib) effectively reduced the growth of synovial sarcoma cell lines in the presence of an alkylating agent (temozolomide). Our findings offer evidence that treatment combining a PARP inhibitor and an alkylating agent could have therapeutic benefits in the treatment of synovial sarcoma.
Modelling lifelong effects of different prophylactic treatment strategies for severe haemophilia A
Authors: Fischer K. , Lewandowski D. , Janssen M. P.
Published: June 2016

Background

Lifelong prophylactic replacement therapy with clotting factor concentrates is recommended for severe haemophilia. The prophylactic dose determines both clinical outcome and treatment cost. In the absence of clinical studies, computer simulation was used to explore lifelong effects and clotting factor consumption for various prophylactic dose levels, and optimize strategies for switching between prophylactic and on‐demand treatment.

Design and Methods

Individual patients’ lifetime joint bleeds, radiological arthropathy (Pettersson score, 0–78) and consumption were simulated for each treatment strategy. Treatment effectiveness (expressed as % of patients maintaining a lifetime Pettersson score ≤14) and clotting factor consumption were modelled for lifelong prophylaxis at dose levels 1000–4500 IU kg−1 year−1, for on‐demand treatment and for switching strategies. Treatment efficiency (consumption per unit of effectiveness) was used to compare strategies.

Results

Compared to lifelong on‐demand treatment, lifelong prophylaxis at 1000 IU kg−1 year−1 increased effectiveness from 21 to 36%, at an additional consumption of 0.9 × 106 IU kg−1. For lifelong prophylaxis, each additional 1000 IU kg−1 year−1 resulted in a proportional increase in consumption by ±5 × 106 IU kg−1 but a less than proportional reduction in arthropathy by ±50%; consequently, increasing consumption progressively diminished treatment efficiency. Switching strategies slightly reduce effectiveness and consumption. Optimum switching criteria were similar across prophylactic dose levels.

Conclusion

According to the simulation model, low‐dose prophylaxis (1000 IU kg−1 year−1) improved outcome at a limited increase in consumption compared to on‐demand treatment. Increasing prophylactic dose further improved health outcomes, but at decreasing efficiency. Optimal prophylactic dose should therefore be selected balancing acceptable health impact and available budget.
Hyponatremia in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wang Songyan , Zhang Mian , Cui Lijuan
Published: June 2016

Hyponatremia is a common condition encountered in clinical practice. A number of studies have associated low serum sodium levels with increased mortality in various patient populations, such as hospitalized patients and patients with various comorbid conditions; recent studies have shown that individuals with chronic kidney disease also are afflicted by hyponatremia. However, few studies have focused on patients with hemodialysis. Evidence supporting the incidence and prevalence of hyponatremia, clinical characteristics and the association with patient outcomes with hemodialysis is limited. In the present review, we examined the physiology and pathophysiology of water and sodium balance with a special emphasis on changes occurring during end‐stage renal disease. The outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis were associated with low serum sodium. We evaluated the associations between hyponatremia and mineral bone abnormalities and discussed the elevated incidence and prevalence of difficult clinical outcomes associated with hyponatremia. We also provided specific recommendations for hemodialysis treatment in hyponatremic patients.
Impact of Depression on Health and Medical Care Utilization and Expenses in US Adults With Migraine: A Retrospective Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Wu Jun , Davis‐Ajami Mary L. , Kevin Lu Zhiqiang
Published: June 2016

Background

The association between migraine and depression has been extensively examined and a bidirectional hypothesis of the comorbidity between the 2 diseases has been reported. However, the economic impact of comorbid depression on migraine has not been fully explored.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of depression on medical utilization and health care expenses among subjects reporting migraine.

Methods

The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) household component longitudinal data files (2006‐2012) identified subjects (≥ 18 years) with migraines. Two groups were created from all eligible subjects with migraine based on whether comorbid depression was reported or not. The major outcome measures were annualized average total and migraine‐related health care expenses and medical utilization during a 2‐year period. The impact of depression on health expenses was assessed by multivariable linear regression models with log transformations. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with depression and examined the likelihood of emergency department (ED) visit adjusting for demographic and health‐related variables.

Results

Among 2,400 subjects with migraine (approximate 54.3 million United States [US] individuals for years 2006‐2012), 804 reported depression (representing 18.4 million individuals in the United States, 33.9%). Among migraineurs, nearly one‐third received anti‐migraine prescription drugs and approximately 65% with comorbid depression used antidepressants. Race (black vs white, odds ratio [OR]: 0.36, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25, 0.52), sex (male vs female, OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.51, 0.87), perceived health status (fair to poor vs excellent‐very good, OR: 2.58, 95% CI: 2.72. 4.71), insurance coverage (public vs private, OR: 1.59, 95%CI: 1.13, 2.24), and greater comorbidity (OR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.28, 2.26) were significantly associated with comorbid depression in the subjects with migraine. Compared to migraine subjects without depression, the mean annual total health expenses per person ($10,012 vs. $4,740, P <.001) and mean migraine‐related health expenses ($723 vs $499, P = .014) were significantly higher in those with depression. The odds of ED visit in migraineurs with comorbid depression were higher than in those without depression (OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.71).

Conclusion

Comorbid depression in subjects with migraine was associated with higher total and migraine‐related health expenses and increased likelihood of all‐cause ED visits. Comorbid depression management might be incorporated into migraine intervention program to improve treatment outcomes and produce potential cost savings. Further studies are needed to assess long‐term effects of depression on migraine progression and health care utilization patterns.
A Comparison of the Chronic Migraine Epidemiology and Outcomes (CaMEO) Study and American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention (AMPP) Study: Demographics and Headache‐Related Disability
Authors: Lipton Richard B. , Manack Adams Aubrey , Buse Dawn C. , Fanning Kristina M. , Reed Michael L.
Published: June 2016

Objective

To compare the methods and baseline characteristics of the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention (AMPP) and Chronic Migraine Epidemiology and Outcomes (CaMEO) studies.

Background

The AMPP and CaMEO studies are the largest longitudinal efforts designed to improve our understanding of episodic and chronic migraine in the United States. The studies have complementary strengths and weaknesses.

Methods

This analysis compares and contrasts the study methods and participation rates of the AMPP and CaMEO studies. We then compare and contrast baseline results in terms of demographic characteristics, headache features, and disability as measured by the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) among people with episodic and chronic migraine.

Results

AMPP and CaMEO sampled from panels constructed to be representative of the US population. The AMPP Study collected data using a mailed questionnaire while CaMEO relied on a web survey methodology. Response rates were higher in AMPP (64.8%) than in CaMEO (16.5%). Both studies assessed headache features using the American Migraine Study/AMPP diagnostic module. Both identified persons with episodic (<15 headache days/month) and chronic migraine (≥15 headache days/month) based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders. AMPP collected data annually over 5 years, while CaMEO collected data quarterly over 15 months. Baseline demographic distribution was generally similar, indicating that each study was broadly representative of the US population. The proportion of persons with migraine who had chronic migraine was similar (AMPP, 6.6%; CaMEO, 8.8%). Respondents had similar median headache frequency (days/month) by sex for chronic migraine (AMPP: men = 21.7, women = 20.0; CaMEO: men = 20.0, women = 20.0) and episodic migraine (AMPP: men = 1.7, women = 2.0; CaMEO: men = 2.0, women = 3.0). Median MIDAS scores were substantially higher in both studies for chronic migraine (severe disability [Grade IV]; AMPP: men = 33.0, women = 45.0; CaMEO: men = 32.0, women = 38.0) than episodic migraine (little/mild disability [Grade I/II]; AMPP: men = 3.0, women = 6.0; CaMEO: men = 4.0, women = 7.0). Rates of moderate/severe disability (Grade III/IV) were substantially higher in both studies for chronic migraine (AMPP: men = 66.9%, women = 78.9%; CaMEO: men = 71.0%, women = 82.6%) than episodic migraine (AMPP: men = 23.0%, women = 31.8%; CaMEO: men = 26.7%, women = 37.9%). More women than men respondents in both studies experienced moderate/severe disability.

Conclusions

AMPP and CaMEO are longitudinal cohort studies that used different methods, but yielded similar results for demographic features, headache frequency, and headache‐related disability. Both studies found more severe headache‐related disability in those with chronic versus episodic migraine.
Virological response and resistance profile in HIV‐1‐infected patients starting darunavir‐containing regimens
Authors: Armenia D , Di Carlo D , Maffongelli G , Borghi V , Alteri C , Forbici F , Bertoli A , Gori C , Giuliani M , Nicastri E , Zaccarelli M , Pinnetti C , Cicalini S , D'Offizi G , Ceccherini‐Silberstein F , Mussini C , Antinori A , Andreoni M , Perno CF , Santoro MM
Published: June 2016

Objectives

We evaluated the virological response in patients starting a regimen based on darunavir/ritonavir (DRV/r), which is currently the most widely used ritonavir‐boosted protease inhibitor.

Methods

Data from 206 drug‐naïve and 327 PI‐experienced patients starting DRV/r 600/100 mg twice daily (DRV600) or 800/100 mg once daily (DRV800) were examined. The probabilities of virological success (VS) and virological rebound (VR) were evaluated in survival analyses. Baseline DRV/r resistance and its evolution at failure were also examined.

Results

DRV600 was preferentially administered in patients with complex requirements (older age, higher viraemia, lower CD4 cell count and DRV/PI resistance) compared with DRV800. By 12 months, the probability of achieving VS was 93.2% and 84.3% in drug‐naïve and PI‐experienced patients, respectively. The higher the baseline viraemia, the longer was the time required to achieve VS, both in drug‐naïve patients [>500 000 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL: median [interquartile range (IQR)] 6.1 (5.1–10.3) months; 100 000–500 000 copies/mL: median (IQR) 4.9 (3.8–6.1) months; <100 000 copies/mL: median (IQR) 3.9 (3.5–4.8) months; P < 0.001] and in PI‐experienced patients [≥100 000 copies/mL: median (IQR) 7.2 (5.7–11.6) months; <100 000 copies/mL: median (IQR) 2.8 (2.4–3.3) months; P < 0.001]. In PI‐experienced patients, the probability of VR was higher for higher viraemia levels (22.3% for ≥100 000 copies/ml vs. 9.7% for <100 000 copies/mL; P = 0.007). Baseline resistance did not affect the virological response. At failure, a high percentage of patients maintained virus susceptible to all PIs (drug‐naïve: 95%; PI‐experienced: 80%). Despite being used more often in patients with more complex requirements, DRV600 performed as well as DRV800.

Conclusions

In clinical practice, use of DRV/r (with its flexible dosage) results in high rates of virological response. These data support the use of PI/r in patients whose characteristics require potent drugs with a high genetic barrier.
The Interaction Between Child Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia and Early Sensitive Parenting in the Prediction of Children's Executive Functions
Authors: Gueron‐Sela Noa , Wagner Nicholas J. , Propper Cathi B. , Mills‐Koonce W. Roger , Moore Ginger A. , Cox Martha J.
Published: June 2016

This study investigated the interaction between children's parasympathetic functioning and maternal sensitive parenting behaviors during infancy and toddlerhood in the prediction of children's executive functions (EF) at the age of 5 years. Participants included 137 children and their mothers who were followed from the age of 3 months to 5 years. Children's cardiac activity was recorded at rest at multiple times from ages 3 to 36 months, and estimates of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA; a measure of parasympathetic functioning) were calculated. Sensitive parenting was assessed during a mother–child play task at ages 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, and 5 years. Children completed age appropriate EF tasks at the age of 5 years. The link between sensitive parenting during toddlerhood (ages 24 and 36 months) and children's later EF was moderated by children's RSA such that this positive link was evident only among children who had low levels of baseline RSA, and not among those who had high levels of baseline RSA. These findings were obtained while controlling for concurrent sensitive parenting and maternal and child verbal abilities. Results from this study provide evidence for the significant role of biopsychosocial processes in early childhood in the development of EF.
Coupling Between Strain and Oxygen Octahedral Distortions in Epitaxially Strained GdScO3/SrTiO3 Heterostructure
Authors: Liao Zhenyu , Li Zhipeng , Zhu Jing
Published: June 2016

Many functional properties of perovskite oxides, ABO3, have a close relationship with their subtle structures, especially, the distortions of BO6 octahedra. As perovskite oxide heterostructures offer a good platform for controlling functional properties, it is important to understand the coupling between strain and oxygen octahedral distortions across the interface. Here, we study the coupling between the interfacial strain and oxygen octahedral distortions in GdScO3/SrTiO3 heterostructure using aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscopy (AC‐TEM) with sub‐Angstrom resolution and complementary first‐principle calculation. Our results reveal that the shape rather than tilting angle of octahedra is strongly modified by the interfacial strain. These results would conduct us to deeply understand the strain‐octahedral distortion coupling mechanism, and tune functionalities of perovskite oxide thin film in a more elaborate way which is related to the geometry of cation–oxygen bond.
Quantitative approaches to identify floristic units and centres of species endemism in the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, south‐western China
Authors: Zhang Da‐Cai , Ye Jiang‐Xia , Sun Hang
Published: June 2016

Aims

To determine floristic units and centres of plant species endemism using quantitative methods and different taxonomic groups.

Location

The Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau in south‐western China – the world's highest and geologically youngest plateau.

Methods

The plateau was divided into 260 grid cells, each 1° × 1°, and the numbers of different seed‐plant taxa, including genera, total species, endemic species and alpine species, were recorded in each cell. Hierarchical clustering and non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) ordination were used to divide the flora quantitatively, and ANOSIM (analysis of similarities) was used to evaluate differences between the derived groups in the composition of taxa. The stress value was used to assess the fitness of the NMDS ordination. Species endemism was measured using corrected weighted endemism, and centres of species endemism were delimited on the basis of floristic units.

Results

The plateau harbours a total of 12,058 seed‐plant species and infraspecific taxa in 1619 genera; 38.2% of the species are endemic to the plateau and 27.7% are alpine plants. When two or four groups were considered, cluster analysis based on genera gave the best definition, whereas when 12 groups were considered, analysis of endemic species gave the best definition. The flora of the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau represents two floristic subkingdoms, four floristic regions and 12 floristic subregions. Three centres of species endemism were identified, associated with five floristic subregions.

Main conclusions

Quantitative analysis can reveal associations within a flora, and partly confirm intuitive classifications. Genera provide clear divisions of higher floristic ranks, and endemic species give the clearest classifications of lower floristic ranks. Alpine species are important taxa for classifying the flora of mountainous regions. A centre of species endemism based on a floristic unit can be conveniently identified and delimited, and the spatial scale of this centre is determined by the taxonomic rank used.
Methodological Expectations for Studies Using Computer Simulation
Authors: Kelton W. David
Published: June 2016

Simulation is often used in papers and studies across diverse fields like logistics, supply chains, health care, manufacturing, and defense. But simulations must be properly done, including input and model building, designing/analyzing the simulations, and model verification/validation. Unfortunately, simulation studies are not always done well, even though great effort could have gone into the model building and coding. This paper specifies, in brief outline, what authors and researchers need to do, when using simulation as a main tool, to build a convincing case for their findings and conclusions. Considerations on the input side of the model are enumerated, including specification of input distributions and processes; nonstationarity; random‐number generation; and generating realizations of random variables and random processes. On the output side are issues of statistical analysis of simulation output; comparison, selection, and ranking of simulated scenarios; variance reduction; and optimum seeking. Involving matters on both the input and output sides are the essential activities of verification and validation. The intent is to establish expectations on what acceptable papers need to do if using simulation, and to serve as a guideline to applied simulation studies. Such papers and studies will then be more valid, more precise, more useful, and ultimately more convincing.
Laboratory and field evaluation of entomopathogenic nematodes for control of Agriotes obscurus (L.) (Coleoptera: Elateridae)
Authors: Morton A. , Garcia‐del‐Pino F.
Published: June 2016

The susceptibility of the dusky wireworm, Agriotes obscurus (L.) (Coleoptera: Elateridae), to different species and strains of entomopathogenic nematodes was tested in a virulence assay in the laboratory. Larvae were exposed to different nematode doses of 50 and 100 IJs/cm2. At a dose of 50 IJs/cm2, only a commercial strain Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar and the native strain Steinernema carpocapsae (Weiser) B14 caused increased mortality compared with the control (11.1% and 13.3% mortality, respectively). At the higher dose tested, all strains (except Steinernema sp. D122) were virulent to A. obscurus larvae. Steinernema carpocapsae B14 caused higher mortality of wireworm (75.6%) and was used for the assay conducted in cages, with a dose of 100 IJs/cm2, in field conditions. The results showed that S. carpocapsae B14 controlled 48.3% of A. obscurus larvae, demonstrating that some entomopathogenic nematodes have the potential to control larvae of A. obscurus. However, further work is needed to improve their efficacy.
No‐Prep Rehabilitation of Fractured Maxillary Incisors with Partial Veneers
Authors: Vadini Mirco , D'Amario Maurizio , De Angelis Francesco , Falco Antonello , D'Arcangelo Camillo
Published: June 2016

Objective

Therapeutic options for dental trauma depend on the injuries' features. For patients with uncomplicated tooth fractures, adhesive materials and composite partial veneers may be a therapeutic solution that completely preserves healthy tooth structure.

Clinical considerations

An ultra‐conservative approach, using indirect composite partial veneers to restore fractured anterior teeth is described in these case reports.

Conclusion

Despite the position of the finish line in the middle of the clinical crown, this solution offers functional and esthetic outcomes using an indirect composite technique, and appears to be a suitable alternative to direct composite restorations or less conservative indirect veneers.

Clinical Significance

Indirect composite partial veneers present considerable advantages, such as ultra‐minimally invasive properties and excellent esthetic appearances. The success seems to depend on a combination of sound adhesive principles, adequate design of the restoration, laboratory experience, and cementation techniques. (J Esthet Restor Dent 28:351–358, 2016)
Characterization of Grape Molasses/Sesame Paste/Honey Blends: Multiple Response Optimization of Some Physicochemical, Bioactive, Viscoelastic and Sensory Properties
Authors: Karaman Safa , Yilmaz Mustafa Tahsin , Ozturk Gokturk , Yuksel Ferhat , Toker Ömer Said , Dogan Mahmut
Published: June 2016

In this study, blends of grape molasses, sesame paste and honey were prepared at different ratios according to the mixture design and some physicochemical, rheological, bioactive and sensory properties of final blends were studied to create the optimum formulation for the final product. The results showed that the mixture components had significant change on the studied parameters (P < 0.05). Sugar composition of samples changed significantly by the addition of grape molasses and honey which resulted an increase in fructose and glucose. Grape molasses increase in the blend provided a significant increment in total phenolic content and antiradical activity. The blends had viscoelastic character and the mixtures containing higher honey showed more viscous behavior. The highest complex viscosity values were recorded for the blends of sesame paste and honey. Regression models having quite high determination of coefficients (R2 > 0.71) were constructed for the studied parameters. Multiple response optimization results showed that the most preferred blend should contain 34.66% of grape molasses, 34.11% of sesame paste and 31.23% of honey.

Practical Applications

Grape molasses, honey and sesame paste are commonly consumed food products which are rich in energy and many functional components. The people generally consume them in their daily diets especially in their breakfasts. To combine their functionality and sensory properties, an optimization procedure was applied and the mostly desired blend was determined. Blending affected the rheological, textural and bioactive properties of the sample significantly. The results of the study are very important for food industry.
Understanding Compassion Fatigue in Healthcare Providers: A Review of Current Literature
Authors: Sorenson Claire , Bolick Beth , Wright Karen , Hamilton Rebekah
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this integrative review was to identify, review, synthesize, and analyze the existing literature addressing compassion fatigue (CF) in healthcare providers (HCPs), with careful attention to provider role and practice area. CF needs to be better understood to identify, prevent, and treat it before it becomes problematic for HCPs. CF is representative of the cost of caring and results in physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that contribute to the decision of the HCP to leave the profession.

Methods

A literature search, guided by search terms related to CF, was conducted using the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and PubMed encompassing publications between 2005 and 2015. The selected literature was then systemically reviewed and synthesized for this narrative review.

Results

These preliminary searches resulted in 307 articles, of which 43 met inclusion criteria. These 43 articles were reviewed and reported that CF and related concepts (CF and RCs) were pervasive and affected a wide variety of HCPs working in many clinical settings; however, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists were not well represented. The literature provided information regarding prevalence, risk factors, prevention measures, and symptoms of CF and RCs.

Conclusions

While CF and RCs have been explored in a myriad of medical professionals, there is little published regarding APRNs, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. More research is needed to evaluate for the presence of CF in HCPs working in a variety of settings and the degree to which it affects personal and professional well‐being, including interactions with patients, patient outcomes, and the quality of professional life. Additionally, as the definition and use of the term compassion fatigue has evolved, a need for a well‐developed concept analysis has also become evident.

Clinical Relevance

A better understanding of current research on CF through narrative review, development of a concept analysis, and further exploration of its impact on HCPs has the potential to improve the overall well‐being of HCPs, ultimately leading to better patient care and retention within the profession.
Significance of oligohydramnios in preterm small‐for‐gestational‐age infants for outcome at 18 months of age
Authors: Sasahara Jun , Ishii Keisuke , Umehara Nagayoshi , Oba Mari , Kiyoshi Kenji , Murakoshi Takeshi , Tanemoto Tomohiro , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Ichizuka Kiyotake , Yoshida Aya , Tanaka Kei , Ozawa Katsusuke , Sago Haruhiko
Published: June 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between oligohydramnios and other perinatal factors in preterm small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) infants who had cerebral palsy at 18 months of age or who had died before this age.

Methods

This retrospective study included 320 infants with birthweights < 3rd percentile delivered between 22 and 33 complete weeks of gestation. We evaluated the incidence of CP at 18 months of age and of death before this age. The significant risk factors, including oligohydramnios, of CP or death of preterm SGA infants were evaluated by logistic regression analysis.

Results

The incidence of CP or death was 47/320 (14.7%), consisting of 24/320 (7.5%) cases of CP and 23/320 (7.2%) cases of death. Oligohydramnios (adjusted odds ratio, 2.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–4.45) and gestational age (adjusted odds ratio, 0.76; 95% confidence interval, 0.66–0.87) were independently correlated with outcome.

Conclusion

The incidence of adverse outcomes was approximately 15% in preterm SGA infants. SGA infants born with oligohydramnios may be at increased risk for CP or death compared to those with normal amniotic volume.
The Milky Way: paediatric milk-based dispersible tablets prepared by direct compression – a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Orubu Samuel E F , Hobson Nicholas J , Basit Abdul W , Tuleu Catherine
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Dispersible tablets are proposed by the World Health Organization as the preferred paediatric formulation. It was hypothesised that tablets made from a powdered milk-base that disperse in water to form suspensions resembling milk might be a useful platform to improve acceptability in children.

Methods

Milk-based dispersible tablets containing various types of powdered milk and infant formulae were formulated. The influence of milk type and content on placebo tablet properties was investigated using a design-of-experiments approach. Responses measured included friability, crushing strength and disintegration time. Additionally, the influence of compression force on the tablet properties of a model formulation was studied by compaction simulation.

Key findings

Disintegration times increased as milk content increased. Compaction simulation studies showed that compression force influenced disintegration time. These results suggest that the milk content, rather than type, and compression force were the most important determinants of disintegration.

Conclusion

Up to 30% milk could be incorporated to produce 200 mg 10-mm flat-faced placebo tablets by direct compression disintegrating within 3 min in 5–10 ml of water, which is a realistic administration volume in children. The platform could accommodate 30% of a model active pharmaceutical ingredient (caffeine citrate).
The genes that encode the gonococcal transferrin binding proteins, TbpB and TbpA, are differentially regulated by MisR under iron‐replete and iron‐depleted conditions
Authors: Kandler Justin L. , Acevedo Rosuany Vélez , Dickinson Mary Kathryne , Cash Devin R. , Shafer William M. , Cornelissen Cynthia Nau
Published: June 2016

Neisseria gonorrhoeae produces two transferrin binding proteins, TbpA and TbpB, which together enable efficient iron transport from human transferrin. We demonstrate that expression of the tbp genes is controlled by MisR, a response regulator in the two‐component regulatory system that also includes the sensor kinase MisS. The tbp genes were up‐regulated in the misR mutant under iron‐replete conditions but were conversely down‐regulated in the misR mutant under iron‐depleted conditions. The misR mutant was capable of transferrin‐iron uptake at only 50% of wild‐type levels, consistent with decreased tbp expression. We demonstrate that phosphorylated MisR specifically binds to the tbpBA promoter and that MisR interacts with five regions upstream of the tbpB start codon. These analyses confirm that MisR directly regulates tbpBA expression. The MisR binding sites in the gonococcus are only partially conserved in Neisseria meningitidis, which may explain why tbpBA was not MisR‐regulated in previous studies using this related pathogen. This is the first report of a trans‐acting protein factor other than Fur that can directly contribute to gonococcal tbpBA regulation.
A Pedagogy of Pain: New Directions for World Language Education
Authors: ENNSER–KANANEN JOHANNA
Published: June 2016

As I am writing this piece, I am highly aware of my privilege as a White, middle class, European woman. I have never had to flee my home, justify my existence, or fear for my life. Although stories of human suffering deeply affect me, my pain is not the pain of those who feel it on their own bodies, minds, lands, and families. I offer this piece as one attempt to stand in solidarity with them and be their ally.
The impact of insecticide‐treated cloth targets on the survival of Stegomyia polynesiensis (= Aedes polynesiensis) under laboratory and semi‐field conditions in French Polynesia
Authors: CHAMBERS E. W. , BOSSIN H. C. , RITCHIE S. A. , RUSSELL R. C. , DOBSON S. L.
Published: June 2016

The impact of deltamethrin‐impregnated cloth targets on Stegomyia polynesiensis (= Aedes polynesiensis) (Marks) (Diptera: Culicidae) was assessed under laboratory and semi‐field settings in French Polynesia. Stegomyia polynesiensis females were released into small laboratory cages and large field cages containing either a deltamethrin‐treated or an untreated navy blue cloth, and mosquito knock‐down and mortality were assessed. The 24‐h mortality rate in mosquitoes exposed to the insecticide‐treated target in small cages was 98.0%. These mosquitoes also demonstrated significantly higher levels of knock‐down than those exposed to the untreated target. Mortality in field cages was assessed at 24 and 48 h. The 24‐h mortality rate in mosquitoes exposed to the control target was 31.2%, whereas that in those exposed to the deltamethrin‐treated target was 54.3%. The 48‐h mortality rate was also elevated in mosquitoes exposed to the deltamethrin‐treated target, but this result did not differ significantly from that observed in mosquitoes exposed to the control target. The significant suppression of female S. polynesiensis by deltamethrin‐treated resting targets in this study indicates that these targets could play a role in the control of an important disease vector in the South Pacific region.
Comparison of two high‐resolution manometry software systems in evaluating esophageal motor function
Authors: Rengarajan A. , Drapekin J. , Patel A. , Gyawali C. P.
Published: June 2016

Background

High‐resolution manometry (HRM) utilizes software tools to diagnose esophageal motor disorders. Performance of these software metrics could be affected by averaging and by software characteristics of different manufacturers.

Methods

High‐resolution manometry studies on 86 patients referred for antireflux surgery (61.6 ± 1.4 year, 70% F) and 20 healthy controls (27.9 ± 0.7 year, 45% F) were first subject to standard analysis (Medtronic, Duluth, GA, USA). Coordinates for each of 10 test swallows were exported and averaged to generate a composite swallow. The swallows and averaged composites were imported as ASCII file format into Manoview (Medtronic) and Medical Measurement Systems database reporter (MMS, Dover, NH, USA), and analyses repeated. Comparisons were made between standard and composite swallow interpretations.

Key Results

Correlation between the two systems was high for mean distal contractile integral (DCI, r2 ≥ 0.9) but lower for integrated relaxation pressure (IRP, r2 = 0.7). Excluding achalasia, six patients with outflow obstruction (mean IRP 23.2 ± 2.1 with 10‐swallow average) were identified by both systems. An additional nine patients (10.5%) were identified as outflow obstruction (15 mmHg threshold) with MMS 10‐swallow and four with MMS composite swallow evaluation; only one was confirmed. Ineffective esophageal motility was diagnosed by 10‐swallow evaluation in 19 (22.1%) with Manoview, and 20 (23.3%) with MMS. On Manoview composite, 17 had DCI <450 mmHg/cm/s, and on MMS composite, 21, (p ≥ 0.85 for each comparison) but these did not impact diagnostic conclusions.

Conclusions & Inferences

Comparison of 10 swallow and composite swallows demonstrate variability in software metrics between manometry systems. Our data support use of manufacturer specific software metrics on 10‐swallow sequences.
Attitude as a Mediator between Acculturation and Behavioral Intention
Authors: Ebrahim Nasser B. , Davis Sharon , Tomaka Joe
Published: June 2016

Objective

Immigrants, specifically African‐born black persons, are affected by the HIV epidemic in the U.S. The low level of condom use among immigrants is a risk factor for contracting HIV and STIs. Immigrants go through acculturation process in their new adopted countries—a process reported to influence many health risks and protective factors; however, the mechanism through which acculturation influences health behaviors is not well understood. Thus, study examined the mediating role of attitude in the relationship between acculturation and the intention to use male condoms in steady heterosexual relationships among Somali and Ethiopian immigrants in Minnesota.

Design and Sample

The study was a regression analysis and the method of data collection cross‐sectional. Participants were (n = 205) Somali and Ethiopian immigrants in Minnesota who volunteered for the study.

Measures

Study participants responded to questions on attitudes, behavioral intention, and acculturation levels.

Results

The indirect effect of acculturation through the mediator, attitude, was not significant, product coefficient (a × b) = 0.04, 95% CI: [0.00, 0.11]; hence attitude did not mediate the relationship between acculturation and the intention to use condoms in the study population. However, there were significant direct and total effects of acculturation (c′ = .27, p < .05; c = .31, p < .05), respectively, on intention to use condoms.

Conclusion

Results of the study may suggest that public health intervention strategies targeting condom use among immigrants should incorporate programs that improve English language training tailored to the cultural practices and values of the immigrants, and consider the effect of acculturation on condom use.
Incidental emotions influence risk preference and outcome evaluation
Authors: Zhao Ding , Gu Ruolei , Tang Ping , Yang Qiwei , Luo Yue‐Jia
Published: June 2016

Incidental emotions, which are irrelevant to the current decision, play a significant role in the decision‐making process. In this study, to investigate the influence of incidental emotions on behavioral, psychological, and electrophysiological responses in the process of decision making, participants were required to perform a monetary gambling task. During the selection stage, an emotional picture, which was chosen from the Chinese Affective Picture System and fell into one of three categories: negative, neutral, and positive, was presented between two alternatives (small/large amount of bet). The pictures were provided to induce incidental emotions. ERPs and self‐rating emotional experiences to outcome feedback were recorded during the task. Behavioral results showed that positive incidental emotions elicited risk preference, but emotional experiences to outcome feedback were not influenced by incidental emotions. The feedback‐related negativity amplitudes were larger in the positive emotion condition than in the negative and neutral emotion conditions for small outcomes (including wins and losses), whereas there was no difference between the three conditions for large outcomes. In addition, the amplitudes of P3 were reduced overall in the negative emotion condition. We suggest that incidental emotions have modulated both the option assessment stage (manifested in behavioral choices) and the outcome evaluation stage (manifested in ERP amplitudes) of decision making unconsciously (indicated by unchanged subjective emotional experiences). The current findings have expanded our understanding of the role of incidental emotion in decision making.
Strategies to restore floodplain vegetation after abandonment of human activities
Authors: González Eduardo , Masip Adrià , Tabacchi Eric , Poulin Monique
Published: June 2016

Restoring the flooding‐related disturbance regime by removing and setting back flood defenses (channel widening) is the most efficient strategy for recovering riparian plant communities in floodplains formerly impacted by human activities such as agriculture, mining, and forestry. Removing flood defenses is generally not socially accepted, and alternative recovery strategies must be explored. We assessed vegetation establishment on 33 sites in the floodplains of the Middle Ebro River and three of its tributaries (NE Spain) where restoration approaches applied in the last 20 years include channel widening, floodplain excavation, and abandonment of agriculture, gravel extraction, and hybrid poplar plantations, with and without plantation of native species. Using analysis of similarity and ordinations, we found that channel widening led to plant communities closely resembling those found on natural gravel bars, including new recruits of keystone tree species. Excavation of the floodplain as the restoration approach resulted in pioneer, non‐strictly riparian communities. Abandonment of agricultural land or clearing of poplar plantations resulted in alternative stable states predominating, regardless of time elapsed since restoration and whether poles of native species were planted. However, forest‐like communities relatively similar to mature, natural riparian references were attainable when hybrid poplars were allowed to resprout after clear‐cutting, or after the human activities were abandoned and trees were not cut. Combining channel widening and assisted revegetation where flood defenses cannot be altered may partially reproduce a mosaic of habitats typical of natural floodplains.
Metallogeny and Mineralization Potential of the Bazman Granitoids, SE Iran
Authors: Ghodsi Mohammad Reza , Boomeri Mohammad , Bagheri Sasan , Lentz David , Ishiyama Daizo
Published: June 2016

The Mesozoic Bazman granitoids are located in Sistan and Baluchestan province, southeastern Iran. Geology of the study area consists of Carboniferous shale, sandstone, and limestone and Permian siltstone, shale, sandstone, limestone, and dolomite that were intruded by the Bazman granitoids. These granitoids include various phases of granite, granodiorite, quartz‐monzodiorite, monzodiorite, diorite, and gabbro. They are metaluminous to slightly peraluminous, reduced, calc‐alkaline and I‐type, and display geochemical characteristics of continental margin (ensialic) granitoids. In this paper, field, petrography, and geochemical data were used to discriminate the Bazman granitoids either as productive or barren granitoids. Although there are a few skarn‐related mineral occurrences adjacent to the Bazman granitoids, most exposed intrusions are not hydrothermally altered and mineralized. Rb/Sr, Zr/Hf, and K/Rb ratios indicate that the granitic magmas that formed most of the Bazman granitoids indicate that they are moderately evolved and have generally not undergone post‐magmatic hydrothermal activity. The Sm/Eu and Rb/Ba ratios and the concentrations of Rb, Ba, and Sr within the aforementioned granitoids show that the rocks are similar to the averages of granitoids devoid of Li, Be, U, Sn, W, and Ta deposits. The I‐type arc characteristics and other geochemical features of the Bazman granitoids show that they are not typical of parental magmas to Sn, W, Mo, and Zn mineralization, but are mainly fertile for Cu and Fe (Au) skarn‐related granitoids.
Weighing the Risks of Nuclear Energy and Climate Change: Trust in Different Information Sources, Perceived Risks, and Willingness to Pay for Alternatives to Nuclear Power
Authors: Vainio Annukka , Paloniemi Riikka , Varho Vilja
Published: June 2016

We examined how individuals perceive nuclear energy in the context of climate change mitigation and how their perceptions are associated with trust in different risk information sources. We analyzed the interrelationships between trust, perceived risk of nuclear power, climate change concern, perception of nuclear energy as an acceptable way to mitigate climate change, and willingness to pay (WTP) for alternatives to nuclear power. A nationwide survey (N = 967) collected in Finland was analyzed with structural equation modeling. The associations between trust and perceived risk of nuclear power, climate change concern, and perception of nuclear power as a way to mitigate climate change varied by the type of information source. Political party support and other background variables were associated with trust in different information sources. The effect of trust in information sources on WTP was mediated by perceived risks and benefits. The results will increase our understanding of how individuals perceive nuclear energy as a way to cut CO2 emissions and the role of trust in different information sources in shaping nuclear risk perceptions and energy choices.
Does Preschool Boost the Development of Minority Children?: The Case of Roma Children
Authors: Felfe Christina , Huber Martin
Published: June 2016

Does universal preschool constitute an effective policy tool to promote the development and integration of children from minority groups? We address this question for the children of the Roma—the largest and most disadvantaged minority group in Europe. To tackle the issue of non-random selection into preschool, we exploit variation in the individual distance to the nearest preschool facility. Non-parametric instrumental variable estimations reveal significant short-term gains in terms of children's literacy. Preschool attendance also increases the prevalence of vaccinations but has no effect on other observed health outcomes. Overall, preschool also does not seem to enhance integration measured by children's language proficiency or social–emotional development, at least not in the short term.
Exploring myrmecophily based on the phylogenetic interrelationships of FalagoniaSharp, 1883 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) and allied genera
Authors: SANTIAGO‐JIMÉNEZ QUIYARI J. , ESPINOSA DE LOS MONTEROS ALEJANDRO
Published: June 2016

The taxonomy of Lomechusini Fleming has a complex history. Recent studies have shown that this group is polyphyletic; however, little is known about the evolutionary interrelationships among its constituent genera. The goals of the present study are to infer the phylogenetic relationships of Falagonia Sharp and closely related genera; to define the boundaries of those genera based on synapomorphic characters; and to explore the evolution of myrmecophily within the lineage. The phylogenetic analyses are based exclusively on morphological characters of adults. A total of 36 operational taxonomic units were used for the analysis. The best trees were selected based on maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference. During the parsimony reconstruction, different weighting strategies were used to recover the most robust phylogenetic hypothesis. Although minor differences were observed in the results of the different analyses, the topologies were consistent throughout. Several groups of genera proposed by Seevers (1965), such as the ‘Tetradonia’ and ‘Ecitopora’ groups, were not recovered. Thus, these may represent nonmonophyletic groups that were based on nonsynapomorphic diagnostic characters. Our analyses consistently recovered the genera Asheidium Santiago‐Jiménez, Delgadoidium Santiago‐Jiménez, Falagonia, Newtonidium Santiago‐Jiménez, Pseudofalagonia Santiago‐Jiménez, Sharpidium Santiago‐Jiménez, Tetradonia Wasmann and Thayeridium Santiago‐Jiménez, forming a monophyletic group that we have called the ‘Asheidium complex’. Falagonia mexicana Sharp shows seven autapomorphies, none of which were used to establish the genus. Based on the phylogenetic results, myrmecophily has evolved independently at least three times within the lineage. This study, based on morphological characters, is one of the first approaches towards gaining an understanding of the phylogenetic relationships within the polyphyletic tribe Lomechusini.