bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hangover in Post‐College‐Aged Drinkers: Psychometric Properties of the Hangover Symptom Scale (HSS) and the Hangover Symptom Scale—Short Form (HSS‐5)
Authors: Chavarria Jesus , Rueger Sandra Y. , King Andrea C.
Published: April 2018

Background

Alcohol hangovers have been found to be a common and costly consequence of alcohol misuse. However, there is only limited psychometric support for instruments to accurately measure hangovers beyond the college‐age years. This study investigated the psychometric properties of the Hangover Symptom Scale (HSS) and the Hangover Symptom Scale—Short Form (HSS‐5) including the internal consistency, convergent and discriminant validity, construct validity, and the measurement invariance of these scales between light and heavy drinkers, individuals with a positive and negative family history of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and men and women in a post‐college‐aged sample. The association of the HSS and HSS‐5 with alcohol use problems was also tested.

Methods

Participants were 294 nonalcoholic light and heavy social drinkers (age range 21 to 35 years; 57.8% male) enrolled in the Chicago Social Drinking Project. They completed the HSS as part of a take‐home packet completed outside of the laboratory. The psychometric properties of the HSS and HSS‐5 were tested.

Results

Stronger psychometric support was found for the HSS‐5 relative to the full HSS. While both measures demonstrated strong internal consistency reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, and an association with alcohol use problems, only the HSS‐5 showed construct validity as determined by confirmatory factor analysis. Further, only the HSS‐5 showed measurement invariance between men and women, light and heavy drinkers, and individuals with a positive and negative family history of AUD.

Conclusions

This was the first study to examine the psychometric properties of the HSS and HSS‐5 in a post‐college‐aged sample and the first to investigate the measurement invariance of these measures as a function of sex, drinking history, and family history of AUD. This study supports the use of the HSS‐5 as a reliable and valid brief measure of frequency of hangover symptoms.
Perception of physical attractiveness when consuming and not consuming alcohol: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Bowdring Molly A. , Sayette Michael A.
Published: April 2018

Background and Aims

Elucidating why people drink and why drinking can lead to negative psychosocial consequences remains a crucial task for alcohol researchers. Because drinking occurs typically in social settings, broader investigation of the associations between alcohol and social experience is needed to advance understanding of both the rewarding and hazardous effects of alcohol use. This review aimed to (a) estimate alcohol's relation to the perception of others’ physical attractiveness and (b) suggest theoretical and methodological considerations that may advance the study of this topic.

Methods

Systematic review of Scopus and PsycInfo databases was conducted to identify experimental and quasi‐experimental studies, with either between‐ or within‐subjects designs, that assessed attractiveness ratings provided by individuals who had and had not consumed alcohol (k = 16 studies, n = 1811). A meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate alcohol's aggregate association with physical attractiveness perceptions. Separate a priori secondary analyses examined alcohol's associations with perception of opposite‐sex (k = 12 studies) and same‐sex (k = 7 studies) attractiveness.

Results

The primary analysis indicated that alcohol was related significantly to enhanced attractiveness perceptions [d = 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.05–0.32, P = 0.01; I2 = 5.28, 95% CI = 0.00–39.32]. Analysis of alcohol's association with perception of opposite‐sex attractiveness similarly yielded a small, significant positive association (d = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.16–0.44, P < 0.01; I2 = 17.49, 95% CI = 0.00–57.75). Alcohol's relation to perception of same‐sex attractiveness was not significant (d = 0.04, 95% CI = –0.18 to 0.26, P = 0.71; I2 = 54.08, 95% CI = 0.00–81.66).

Conclusions

Experimental and quasi‐experimental studies suggest that consuming alcohol may have a small effect of increasing perceived attractiveness of people of the opposite sex.
Modes of climate variability and associated bird communities in India
Authors: Mehta Anusha S. , Wilby Robert L.
Published: April 2018

Birds are sensitive to climate variability and change. This pilot study explores variations in bird communities in India under contrasting phases of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). Statistical analyses were performed using monthly bird data for the years 1990–2015 in Goa and Tamil Nadu. Monthly precipitation, temperature, the Oceanic Niño Index and the Dipole Mode Index were used as explanatory variables for species richness and counts of three marker species (Brahminy Kite, Indian Pond Heron and Lesser Whistling Duck). Due to highly autocorrelated series, small sample sizes and many test permutations, there is greater likelihood of Type I errors when interpreting correlation results. However, pooling bird data by climate mode and state revealed that species richness was generally greater under El Niño or negative IOD (locally wet conditions) than under La Niña or positive IOD (locally dry conditions). In Goa, the Brahminy Kite, Indian Pond Heron and Lesser Whistling Duck had significantly higher counts during El Niño than La Niña events. In Tamil Nadu, there were significantly more Kites under negative than positive IOD phases. Regional variations in sensitivity may reflect species‐dependent factors such as food availability and security of nesting sites. Further research is needed to establish causal mechanisms between climate mode and species richness as well as into the combined effects of ENSO and IOD on bird communities across South Asia.
Cultural geographies of coastal change
Authors: Walsh Cormac , Döring Martin
Published: April 2018

This special section grew out of a series of contributions presented in the context of the international symposium “Managing coastal change and climate vulnerability: questions of space, place and landscape”, held at Hamburg University (Germany) in November 2015. All papers are based on the insight that coasts are partially solidified zones of fluid transition holding extreme and powerful dynamics which make it worthwhile exploring pressing issues of coastal change whether in relation to spatialities of nature conservation, conceptual issues concerning the environmental governance of the coast or the role of art as a facilitator in coastal management processes. Drawing on a rich array of qualitative methods and theoretical approaches, providing far‐ranging empirical insights and reflecting reflexively on the implications of the research undertaken, the papers of this special section contribute to sketching out a nascent cultural geography of coastal change. In this introduction, we focus on the conceptual aspects which inform and cut across each of the contributions and which we envisage as conceptual building blocks meriting further investigation. Taken as a whole, the special section offers an insight into the potential of methodological and epistemological pluralism to empirically come to grips with the multifaceted character of coastal change while explicitly challenging prevailing scientific cultures and epistemologies of the coast.
Story‐Making as Methodology: Disrupting Dominant Stories through Multimedia Storytelling
Authors: Rice Carla , Mündel Ingrid
Published: April 2018

In this essay, we discuss multimedia story‐making methodologies developed through Re•Vision: The Centre for Art and Social Justice that investigates the power of the arts, especially story, to positively influence decision makers in diverse sectors. Our story‐making methodology brings together majority and minoritized creators to represent previously unattended experiences (e.g., around mind‐body differences, queer sexuality, urban Indigenous identity, and Inuit cultural voice) with an aim to building understanding and shifting policies/practices that create barriers to social inclusion and justice. We analyze our ongoing efforts to rework our storytelling methodology, spotlighting acts of revising carried out by facilitators and researchers as they/we redefine methodological terms for each storytelling context, by researcher‐storytellers as they/we rework material from our lives, and by receivers of the stories as we revise our assumptions about particular embodied histories and how they are defined within dominant cultural narratives and institutional structures. This methodology, we argue, contributes to the existing qualitative lexicon by providing innovative new approaches not only for chronicling marginalized/misrepresented experiences and critically researching selves, but also for scaffolding intersectional alliances and for imagining more just futures.
Comparison of human papillomavirus genotyping and cytology triage, COMPACT Study: Design, methods and baseline results in 14 642 women
Authors: Aoyama‐Kikawa Satomi , Fujita Hiromasa , Hanley Sharon J.B. , Kasamo Mitsunori , Kikuchi Kokichi , Torigoe Toshihiko , Matsuno Yoshihiro , Tamakoshi Akiko , Sasaki Takayuki , Matsuura Motoki , Kato Yasuhito , Dong Peixin , Watari Hidemichi , Saito Tsuyoshi , Sengoku Kazuo , Sakuragi Noriaki
Published: April 2018

Although cytology‐based screening programs have significantly reduced mortality and morbidity from cervical cancer, the global consensus is that primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing for cervical screening increases detection of high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and invasive cancer. However, the optimal triage strategy for HPV‐positive women to avoid over‐referral to colposcopy may be setting specific. As Japan requires data that have been generated domestically to modify screening guidelines, we conducted a 3‐year prospective study, COMparison of HPV genotyping And Cytology Triage (COMPACT), to evaluate the potential role of HPV16/18 partial genotyping and cytology for primary HPV screening. In total, 14 642 women aged 20 to 69 years undergoing routine screening at 3 centers in Hokkaido were enrolled. Conventional cytology and HPV testing were carried out. Women with abnormal cytology or HPV16/18 positivity underwent colposcopy. Those with 12 other high‐risk (hr) HPV types underwent repeat cytology after 6 months. Primary study endpoints were detection of high‐grade cervical disease defined as CIN2/CIN3 or greater as determined by consensus pathology. Prevalence of cytological abnormalities was 2.4%. hrHPV, HPV 16, and HPV 18 were detected in 4.6%, 0.9%, and 0.3% of women, respectively. HPV16/18 were detected in all (8/8) invasive cervical cancers and in all (2/2) adenocarcinomas in situ. Both cytological abnormalities and hrHPV positivity declined with increasing age. This is the first Japanese study to investigate the role of partial genotyping and cytology in an HPV‐based screening program. Results should help policy‐makers develop guidelines for future cervical screening programs and management of cervical abnormalities based on HPV genotype.
Plakoglobin restores tumor suppressor activity of p53R175H mutant by sequestering the oncogenic potential of β‐catenin
Authors: Alaee Mahsa , Nool Kristina , Pasdar Manijeh
Published: April 2018

Tumor suppressor/transcription factor p53 is mutated in over 50% of all cancers. Some mutant p53 proteins have not only lost tumor suppressor activities but they also gain oncogenic functions (GOF). One of the most frequently expressed GOF p53 mutants is Arg175His (p53R175H) with well‐documented roles in cancer development and progression. Plakoglobin is a cell adhesion and signaling protein and a paralog of β‐catenin. Unlike β‐catenin that has oncogenic function through its role in the Wnt pathway, plakoglobin generally acts as a tumor/metastasis suppressor. We have shown that plakoglobin interacted with wild type and a number of p53 mutants in various carcinoma cell lines. Plakoglobin and mutant p53 interacted with the promoter and regulated the expression of several p53 target genes. Furthermore, plakoglobin interactions with p53 mutants restored their tumor suppressor/metastasis activities in vitro. GOF p53 mutants induce accumulation and oncogenic activation of β‐catenin. Previously, we showed that one mechanism by which plakoglobin may suppress tumorigenesis is by sequestering β‐catenin's oncogenic activity. Here, we examined the effects of p53R175H expression on β‐catenin accumulation and transcriptional activation and their modifications by plakoglobin coexpression. We showed that p53R175H expression in plakoglobin null cells increased total and nuclear levels of β‐catenin and its transcriptional activity. Coexpression of plakoglobin in these cells promoted β‐catenin's proteasomal degradation, and decreased its nuclear levels and transactivation. Wnt/β‐catenin targets, c‐MYC and S100A4 were upregulated in p53R175H cells and were downregulated when plakoglobin was coexpressed. Plakoglobin‐p53R175H cells also showed significant reduction in their migration and invasion in vitro.
Longitudinal Theory of Mind (ToM) Development From Preschool to Adolescence With and Without ToM Delay
Authors: Peterson Candida C. , Wellman Henry M.
Published: April 2018

Longitudinal tracking of 107 three‐ to‐thirteen‐year‐olds in a cross‐sequential design showed a 6‐step theory of mind (ToM) sequence identified by a few past cross‐sectional studies validly depicted longitudinal ToM development from early to middle childhood for typically developing (TD) children and those with ToM delays owing to deafness or autism. Substantively, all groups showed ToM progress throughout middle childhood. Atypical development was more extended and began and ended at lower levels than for TD children. Yet most children in all groups progressed over the study's mean 1.5 years. Findings help resolve theoretical debates about ToM development for children with and without delay and gain strength and weight via their applicability to three disparate groups varying in ToM timing and sequencing.
Association of added sugar intake and caries‐related experiences among individuals of Mexican origin
Authors: Vega‐López S. , Lindberg N. M. , Eckert G. J. , Nicholson E. L. , Maupomé G.
Published: April 2018

Objective

Determine the association between key dental outcomes and added sugar intake using a survey instrument to assess added sugars, which was specifically tailored to immigrant and US‐born adults of Mexican origin.

Methods

Hispanic adults of Mexican origin (n = 326; 36.2 ± 12.1 years) completed a self‐administered survey to gather acculturation, self‐reported dental experiences and self‐care practices (eg brushing, flossing, pain, bleeding gums), and socio‐demographic information. The survey included a culturally tailored 22‐item Added Sugar Intake Estimate (ASIE) that assessed added sugar intake from processed foods and sugar‐sweetened beverages in a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire format. Linear regression, 2‐sample t test, and ANOVA were used to evaluate associations of demographic and dental outcomes with daily added sugar intake.

Results

Of the mean total daily added sugar intake (99.6 ± 94.6 g), 36.5 ± 44.4 g was derived from sugar‐containing foods and snacks, and 63.1 ± 68.2 g from beverages. Participants who reported greater added sugar intake were more likely to have reported the presence of a toothache in the preceding 12 months, having been prescribed antibiotics for dental reasons, being less likely to floss daily, have reported eating or drinking within 1 hour before bed and have lower psychological acculturation (P < .05 for all). Results were comparable when assessing intake from sugar‐containing foods/snacks and sugar‐sweetened beverages.

Conclusions

This study confirmed the association between added sugar intake and self‐reported dental outcomes among adults of Mexican origin and points to an urgent need to improve dietary behaviours in this population.
Residential child care workers: Relationship based practice in a culture of fear
Authors: Brown Teresa , Winter Karen , Carr Nicola
Published: April 2018

In a contemporary context dominated by reports of the historical institutional abuse of children and young people in residential children's homes, and where the voice of workers is largely absent, this study explores the views and experiences of 26 workers in the Republic of Ireland regarding relationship‐based practice. Using an exploratory, qualitative approach and informed by ‘appreciative inquiry’; semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with 26 residential care workers. The findings highlight that relationship‐based practice has not been fully understood and/or embraced in practice because of a culture of fear that has permeated the Irish residential childcare system. Using theoretical concepts associated with the sociology of fear, the paper explores their effects on practice and argues that these are amplified given the current low status of residential care workers, the impact of media reports and the influence of current discourses around professional practice in which ‘objective’ and ‘emotionally detached’ practice is viewed as synonymous with efficiency and effectiveness. The paper ends by considering implications for professional practice in residential childcare settings.
Evaluation of the effect of self‐cutting and nonself‐cutting thread designed implant with different thread depth on variable insertion torques: An histomorphometric analysis in rabbits
Authors: Muktadar Anand Kumar , Gangaiah Makam , Chrcanovic Bruno Ramos , Chowdhary Ramesh
Published: April 2018

Purpose

To evaluate of the effect of self‐cutting and nonself‐cutting thread designed implant with different thread depth on variable insertion torques. To evaluate the bone volume (BV) and bone to implant contact (BIC) in these variables

Materials and Methods

Mainly two thread design, V‐shaped thread which is self‐cutting and power thread design, which is nonself‐cutting implants were considered for this study with a variation in thread depth of 0.4 and 0.6 mm for both the designs, respectively. A total of 32 CAD designed machined surface implant prototypes were manufactured of 4 mm in diameter and 8 mm in length were made, which were machined surfaced, which was placed in the femur of 16 New Zealand white rabbits. These were categorized under 2 groups; Group 1 and Group 2 with insertion torques of <30 and >50 Ncm, respectively. After 4 weeks of healing, rabbits were sacrificed and histomophometric and histologic analyses were done to evaluate the bone response.

Results

Significantly, more BIC was recorded for high torque implants compared with low torque in power‐shaped thread design (P value = .01*). BV for new bone formation was statistically significant for V‐shaped thread design in high torque when compared with low torque (P value = .02*).

Conclusion

The effect of the depth of the thread design was significant for the power‐shaped design in enhancing BIC when compared with V‐shaped thread design. With high torque V‐shaped thread design had more new bone formation as compared with power‐shaped thread design.
Prognostic utility of MELD‐XI in adult congenital heart disease patients undergoing cardiac transplantation
Authors: Adams Evan D. , Jackson Nicholas J. , Young Tim , DePasquale Eugene C. , Reardon Leigh C.
Published: April 2018

Background

Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease eXcluding INR (MELD‐XI) at cardiac transplant has demonstrated prognostic survival utility, but has not been specifically validated in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) in a registry study.

Methods

Adults undergoing first‐time orthotopic heart transplant from 2005 to 2015 in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) registry were examined in parallel: ACHD (n = 543), ischemic‐dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM, n = 6954) and valvular heart disease (VHD, n = 355). Our primary endpoint was a composite of death, graft failure, and retransplantation assessed at 3 months (early), and those with freedom from early endpoint were reassessed at 5 years (late). Interactions between hepatorenal indices and waitlist time were examined. Secondary outcomes relating to long‐term morbidity were assessed at late endpoint. Freedom from endpoint analysis in ACHD at clinically relevant endpoints was also conducted.

Results

Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease eXcluding INR score at transplant associated with an increased risk of early endpoint in all cohorts. At late endpoint, bilirubin level associated with increased risk uniquely in ACHD.

Conclusions

Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease eXcluding INR holds prognostic application to ACHD in early time points and demonstrates unique waitlist interactions. Transplant bilirubin level may hold significance in long‐term risk stratification of the ACHD population. Time on waitlist is an important consideration to contextualize these values.
How to fit the distribution of apex scavengers into land‐abandonment scenarios? The Cinereous vulture in the Mediterranean biome
Authors: García‐Barón Isabel , Cortés‐Avizanda Ainara , Verburg Peter H. , Marques Tiago A. , Moreno‐Opo Rubén , Pereira Henrique M. , Donázar José A.
Published: April 2018

Aim

Farmland abandonment or “ecological rewilding” shapes species distribution and ecological process ultimately affecting the biodiversity and functionality of ecosystems. Land abandonment predictions based on alternative future socioeconomic scenarios allow foretell the future of biota in Europe. From here, we predict how these forecasts may affect large‐scale distribution of the Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus), an apex scavenger closely linked to Mediterranean agro‐grazing systems.

Location

Iberian Peninsula.

Methods

Firstly, we modelled nest‐site and foraging habitat selection in relation to variables quantifying physiography, trophic resources and human disturbance. Secondly, we evaluate to what extent land abandonment may affect the life traits of the species and finally we determined how potential future distribution of the species would vary according to asymmetric socioeconomic land‐abandonment predictions for year 2040.

Results

Cinereous vultures selected breeding areas with steep slopes and low human presence whereas foraging areas are characterized by high abundance of European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and wild ungulates. Liberalization of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) could potentially transform positively 66% of the current nesting habitat, favouring the recovery of mature forest. Contrarily, land abandonment would negatively affect the 63% of the current foraging habitat reducing the availability of preferred food resources (wild European rabbit). On the other hand, the maintenance of the CAP would determine lower frequencies (24%–22%) of nesting and foraging habitat change.

Main conclusions

Land abandonment may result into opposite effects on the focal species because of the increase in nesting habitats and wild ungulates populations and, on the other hand, lower availability of open areas with poorer densities of European rabbits. Land‐abandonment models’ scenarios are still coarse‐grained; the apparition of new human uses in natural areas may take place at small‐sized and medium‐sized scales, ultimately adding complexity to the prediction on the future of biota and ecosystems.
Current endoscopic strategies for managing large bile duct stones
Authors: Doshi Bhavesh , Yasuda Ichiro , Ryozawa Shomei , Lee Guan Huei
Published: April 2018

Common bile duct stones are a relatively common occurrence and can often lead to devastating complications. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was introduced in the 1970s for management of common bile duct stones. Most common bile duct stones can be removed with simple techniques such as endoscopic sphincterotomy and balloon trawling. However, large bile duct stones continue to pose some difficulty in achieving complete extraction. In this article, we will review some of the established techniques such as the use of endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation, mechanical lithotripsy, and cholangioscopy‐assisted techniques. We will look at the recent literature to help clarify the particular methods and answer some of the questions surrounding these methods.
Challenges associated with the pathological diagnosis of colorectal tumors less than 10 mm in size
Authors: Ichihara Shin , Uraoka Toshio , Oka Shiro
Published: April 2018

Various techniques including cold snare polypectomy and endoscopic mucosal resection are used for the removal of small colorectal polyps. Specimens of resected polyps are prepared in pathology laboratories and analyzed to make a pathological diagnosis. However, reports on how different resection methods influence the pathological diagnosis are limited. This article discusses the problems associated with the failure of polyp retrieval and fragmentation of small specimens during collection and the effects of certain parameters on the pathological diagnosis, particularly with regard to surgical margins. In the future, although pathologists are expected to encounter problems as a result of minor findings that are not clinically problematic, relatively rare cases such as submucosal invasion by a small carcinoma should not be overlooked.
Additional chromoendoscopy for colorectal lesions initially diagnosed with low confidence by magnifying narrow‐band imaging: Can it improve diagnostic accuracy?
Authors: Utsumi Takahiro , Iwatate Mineo , Sunakawa Hironori , Teramoto Akira , Hirata Daizen , Hattori Santa , Sano Wataru , Hasuike Noriaki , Ichikawa Kazuhito , Fujimori Takahiro , Sano Yasushi
Published: April 2018

Background and Aim

Magnifying chromoendoscopy has been one of the most reliable diagnostic methods for distinguishing neoplastic from non‐neoplastic lesions. The aim of this prospective study was to clarify the clinical usefulness of magnifying chromoendoscopy for colorectal polyps initially diagnosed with low confidence (LC) by magnifying narrow‐band imaging (NBI).

Methods

Consecutive adult patients who underwent total colonoscopic examination with magnifying NBI between July and December 2016 at Sano Hospital were prospectively recruited. Endoscopists were asked to carry out additional magnifying chromoendoscopy for cases that had been initially diagnosed as Japan NBI Expert Team (JNET) Type 1 or 2A with LC by magnifying NBI. We investigated the diagnostic performance of magnifying NBI for polyps diagnosed as JNET Type 1 or 2A with LC (first phase) and that of subsequent magnifying chromoendoscopy (second phase) in differentiating neoplasia from non‐neoplasia.

Results

In 50 patients, we analyzed 53 polyps classified as JNET Type 1 or 2A with LC prediction. Accuracy and negative predictive value of magnifying NBI (first phase) were 58.5% (95% CI, 44.1–71.9%) and 66.0% (95% CI, 36.6–77.9%), and those of magnifying chromoendoscopy (second phase) were 66.0% (95% CI, 51.7–78.5%) and 61.1% (95% CI, 43.5–76.9%), respectively.

Conclusion

Regardless of the findings of additional chromoendoscopy, all polyps should be resected and submitted for histopathological examination when the confidence level in differentiating adenomatous from hyperplastic polyps by magnifying NBI is low.
The effectiveness of a group self‐management education course for adults with poorly controlled epilepsy, SMILE (UK): A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ridsdale Leone , Wojewodka Gabriella , Robinson Emily J. , Noble Adam J. , Morgan Myfanwy , Taylor Stephanie J. C. , McCrone Paul , Richardson Mark P. , Baker Gus , Landau Sabine , Goldstein Laura H.
Published: April 2018

Objective

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions affecting about 1% of adults. Up to 40% of people with epilepsy (PWE) report recurring seizures while on medication. And optimal functioning requires good self‐management. Our objective was to evaluate a group self‐management education courses for people with epilepsy and drug‐resistant seizures by means of a multicenter, pragmatic, parallel group, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

We recruited adults with epilepsy, having ≥2 seizures in the prior 12 months, from specialist clinics. Consenting participants were randomized 1:1 to a group course or treatment as usual. The primary outcome measure was quality of life 12 months after randomization using Quality of Life 31‐P (QOLIE‐31‐P). Secondary outcome measures were seizure frequency and recency, psychological distress, impact and stigma of epilepsy, self‐mastery, medication adherence, and adverse effects. Analysis of outcomes followed the intention‐to‐treat principle using mixed‐effects regression models.

Results

We enrolled 404 participants (intervention: n = 205, control: n = 199) with 331 (82%) completing 12‐month follow‐up (intervention: n = 163, control: n = 168). Mean age was 41.7 years, ranging from 16 to 85, 54% were female and 75% were white. From the intervention arm, 73.7% attended all or some of the course. At 12‐month follow‐up, there were no statistically significant differences between trial arms in QOLIE‐31‐P (intervention mean: 67.4, standard deviation [SD]: 13.5; control mean: 69.5, SD 14.8) or in secondary outcome measures.

Significance

This is the first pragmatic trial of group education for people with poorly controlled epilepsy. Recruitment, course attendance, and follow‐up rates were higher than expected. The results show that the primary outcome and quality of life did not differ between the trial arms after 12 months. We found a high prevalence of felt‐stigma and psychological distress in this group of people with drug‐resistant seizures. To address this, social and psychological interventions require evaluation, and may be necessary before or alongside self‐management‐education courses.
Cannabis and anticancer drugs: societal usage and expected pharmacological interactions – a review
Authors: Bouquié Régis , Deslandes Guillaume , Mazaré Hélène , Cogné Marion , Mahé Julien , Grégoire Matthieu , Jolliet Pascale
Published: April 2018

Cannabis is a plant that has been used for centuries to relieve a wide range of symptoms. Since the 1960s, interest in medical research into this plant has grown steadily. Already very popular for recreational use, a growing number of consumers not accustomed to using cannabis for psychoactive purposes have begun to use it as an alternative or complement to mainstream pharmaceutical medicines. The principal unsubstantiated or ‘social’ uses of cannabis are based mainly on data that is at best controversial, but usually not scientifically proven. The aim of this review was to identify the scientific basis and reasons that lead patients with cancer to consume cannabis, and also to identify whether there is a risk of interaction between cannabis and anticancer medicines through drug transporters (P‐glycoprotein and other ATP‐binding cassette superfamily members) Cytochromes P450 (3A, 1A, 2B, 2C, 2D families…) and glucuronyl transferases.
Extracellular matrix composition modulates PDAC parenchymal and stem cell plasticity and behavior through the secretome
Authors: Biondani Giulia , Zeeberg Katrine , Greco Maria Raffaella , Cannone Stefania , Dando Ilaria , Dalla Pozza Elisa , Mastrodonato Maria , Forciniti Stefania , Casavola Valeria , Palmieri Marta , Reshkin Stephan Joel , Cardone Rosa Angela
Published: April 2018

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers. Its aggressiveness is driven by an intense fibrotic desmoplastic reaction in which the increasingly collagen I‐rich extracellular matrix (ECM) and several cell types, including cancer stem cells (CSCs), create a tumor‐supportive environment. However, how ECM composition regulates CSC dynamics and their relationship with the principle parenchymal tumor population to promote early invasive growth is not yet characterized. For this, we utilized a platform of 3D organotypic cultures composed of laminin‐rich Matrigel, representative of an early tumor, plus increasing concentrations of collagen I to simulate malignant stroma progression. As ECM collagen I increases, CSCs progress from a rapidly growing, vascular phenotype to a slower growing, avascular phase, while maintaining their endothelial‐like gene signatures. This transition is supported autocrinically by the CSCs and paracrinically by the parenchymal cells via their ECM‐dependent secretomes. Indeed, when growing on an early tumor ECM, the CSCs are dedicated toward the preparation of a vascular niche by (a) activating their growth program, (b) secreting high levels of proangiogenic factors which stimulate both angiogenesis and vasculogenic mimicry, and (c) overexpressing VEGFR‐2, which is activated by VEGF secreted by both the CSC and parenchymal cells. On Matrigel, the more differentiated parenchymal tumor cell population had reduced growth but a high invasive capacity. This concerted high local invasion of parenchymal cells into the CSC‐derived vascular network suggests that a symbiotic relationship between the parenchymal cells and the CSCs underlies the initiation and maintenance of early PDAC infiltration and metastasis.
Recent advances in environmental flows science and water management—Innovation in the Anthropocene
Authors: Arthington Angela H. , Kennen Jonathan G. , Stein Eric D. , Webb J. Angus
Published: April 2018

The implementation of environmental flow regimes offers a promising means to protect and restore riverine, wetland and estuarine ecosystems, their critical environmental services and cultural/societal values.

This Special Issue expands the scope of environmental flows and water science in theory and practice, offering 20 papers from academics, agency researchers and non‐governmental organisations, each with fresh perspectives on the science and management of environmental water allocations.

Contributions confront the grand challenge for environmental flows and water management in the Anthropocene—the urgent need for innovations that will help to sustain the innate resilience of social–ecological systems under dynamic and uncertain environmental and societal futures.

Basin‐scale and regional assessments of flow requirements mark a necessary advance in environmental water science in the face of rapid changes in water‐resource management activities worldwide (e.g. increases in dams, diversions, retention and reuse). Techniques for regional‐scale hydrological and ecohydrological modelling support ecological risk assessment and identification of priority flow management and river restoration actions.

Changing flood–drought cycles, long‐term climatic shifts and associated effects on hydrological, thermal and water quality regimes add enormous uncertainty to the prediction of future ecological outcomes, regardless of environmental water allocations. An improved capacity to predict the trajectories of ecological change in rivers degraded by legacies of past impact interacting with current conditions and future climate change is essential. Otherwise, we risk unrealistic expectations from restoration of river and estuarine flow regimes.

A more robust, dynamic and predictive approach to environmental water science is emerging. It encourages the measurement of process rates (e.g. birth rate, colonisation rate) and species traits (e.g. physiological requirements, morphological adaptations) as well as ecosystem states (e.g. species richness, assemblage structure), as the variables representing ecological responses to flow variability and environmental water allocations. Another necessary development is the incorporation of other environmental variables such as water temperature and sedimentary processes in flow–ecological response models.

Based on contributions to this Special Issue, several recent compilations and the wider literature, we identify six major scientific challenges for further exploration, and seven themes for advancing the management of environmental water. We see the emerging frontier of environmental flows and water science as urgent and challenging, with numerous opportunities for reinvigorated science and methodological innovation in the expanding enterprise of environmental water linked to ecological sustainability and social well‐being.
“I was purchasing it; it wasn't given to me”: Food project patronage and the geography of dignity work
Authors: Bedore Melanie
Published: April 2018

In response to food access challenges, local organisers are developing community food projects (CFPs) such as good food box programmes, mobile food vending, and non‐profit grocery stores, which (re)introduce affordable retail food options into under‐served communities. This paper explores the patronage of such retail‐based CFPs as dignity work. Whereas Jacobson (e.g., 2009a) elaborates a typology of social processes through which people undertake dignity promotion, this paper re‐examines such processes as personal politics of space. I argue that CFP patronage entails the strategic creation and destruction of physical and symbolic space in order to bring oneself in proximity to, or distance oneself from, morally un/desirable qualities and ways of being. Empirical evidence supporting this interpretation is drawn from mixed methods data collected from patrons and organisers of a Good Food Box programme in south‐eastern Ontario, Canada. The paper concludes with recommendations for supporting food projects’ role in protecting, promoting, and restoring their patrons’ dignity. It also encourages researchers to engage further with geographical imaginaries to theorise the spatiality of dignity work, building on its relevance to boundary processes, feminist care ethics, and “in the meantime” politics.
Usefulness of gastroduodenal biopsy in the differential diagnosis of systemic AH amyloidosis from systemic AL amyloidosis
Authors: Ichimata Shojiro , Kobayashi Mikiko , Shimojo Hisashi , Katoh Nagaaki , Yazaki Masahide , Kanno Hiroyuki
Published: April 2018

Aims

The aim of this study is to examine the usefulness of gastroduodenal biopsy for the detection of immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy‐chain amyloid deposition. Ig heavy‐chain amyloidosis (AH amyloidosis) is Ig‐related amyloidosis classified together with Ig light‐chain amyloidosis (AL amyloidosis). Compared with AL amyloidosis, patients with AH amyloidosis exhibit a better prognosis and they may not need an aggressive treatment. Thus, the accurate diagnosis is essential for management of Ig‐related amyloidosis patients. For the definite diagnosis of AH amyloidosis, biochemical analyses are usually needed. However, these analyses are not widely available. Therefore, the characteristic deposition pattern of AH amyloidosis in routine histopathological examination of biopsy specimens, such as gastrointestinal biopsy, if present, may help in the selection of cases for further biochemical analyses.

Methods and results

Gastroduodenal biopsy specimens obtained from three cases of biochemically confirmed AH amyloidosis and 21 cases of immunohistochemically confirmed AL amyloidosis were examined, and the following distinctive histopathological features of AH amyloidosis were pointed out: (i) AH amyloid deposition was detectable with Congo red staining in the gastroduodenal biopsy specimens; and (ii) AH amyloid deposition was observed characteristically on the capillary wall of duodenal villi (dotted line‐like deposition in the villi), and this pattern was not observed in AL amyloidosis.

Conclusion

These findings help to select cases for biochemical analyses for definite diagnosis of AH amyloidosis, and may lead to the accumulation of cases and improve our understanding of systemic AH amyloidosis.
The Changing Role of Financial Stress, Oil Price, and Gold Price in Financial Contagion among US and BRIC Markets
Authors: Kocaarslan Baris , Soytas Ugur , Sari Ramazan , Ugurlu Ecenur
Published: April 2018

The objective of this paper is to explore the determining factors behind financial contagion between US and BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) equity markets. To this end, we investigate the effects of global macroeconomic factors on the time‐varying correlations among these markets obtained by asymmetric dynamic conditional correlation method. Utilizing quantile regression analysis, we examine the determinants of financial contagion at different levels of time‐varying correlations. The results of quantile regression analyses reveal that global financial crisis (GFC) (2008) leads to changes in the dependence structure between dynamic conditional correlations among equity markets and global macroeconomic factors, such as global financial stress, oil prices, and gold prices. Following the GFC, monetary, and fiscal policy changes in the BRIC markets and hence changing macroeconomic risks of these markets are conducive to these changes. Our findings also demonstrate the importance of cross‐market rebalancing channel for information transmission across US and BRIC markets.
Things to know about Bayesian Networks: Decisions under Uncertainty, Part 2
Authors: Constantinou Anthony C. , Fenton Norman
Published: April 2018

Bayesian networks help us model and understand the many variables that inform our decision-making processes. Anthony C. Constantinou and Norman Fenton explain how they work, how they are built and the pitfalls to avoid along the way
How Severe is Cape Town's “Day Zero” Drought?
Authors: Wolski Piotr
Published: April 2018

With reservoirs running dry, Capetonians are bracing themselves for the day when their water supply may be switched off. Piotr Wolski delves into the rainfall record to put this drought into historical context
A Cure for “Statophobia” at the Library of Alexandria
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: April 2018

“Fear of statistics” is particularly acute in the developing world, says Ronald LaPorte. A new library of research methods at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina aims to address the problem. By Brian Tarran
A novel dazzling Eu3+‐doped whitlockite‐type phosphate red‐emitting phosphor for white light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Li Li , Tang Xiaohua , Zheng Yifei , Wu Zhaojie , Chang Wenxuan , Jiang Sha , Xiang Guotao , Zhou Xianju
Published: April 2018

A series of novel red‐emitting Ca8ZnLa1−xEux(PO4)7 phosphors were successfully synthesized using the high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method. The crystal structure, photoluminescence spectra, thermal stability, and quantum efficiency of the phosphors were investigated as a function of Eu3+ concentration. Detailed analysis of their structural properties revealed that all the phosphors could be assigned as whitlockite‐type β‐Ca3(PO4)2 structures. Both the PL emission spectra and decay curves suggest that emission intensity is largely dependent on Eu3+ concentration, with no quenching as the Eu3+ concentration approaches 100%. A dominant red emission band centered at 611 nm indicates that Eu3+ occupies a low symmetry sites within the Ca8ZnLa(PO4)7 host lattice, which was confirm by Judd‐Ofelt theory. Ca8ZnLa1−xEux(PO4)7 phosphors exhibited good color coordinates (0.6516, 0.3480), high color purity (~96.3%), and high quantum efficiency (~78%). Temperature‐dependent emission spectra showed that the phosphors possessed good thermal stability. A white light‐emitting diode (LED) device were fabricated by integrating a mixture of obtained phosphors, commercial green‐emitting and blue‐emitting phosphors into a near‐ultraviolet LED chip. The fabricated white LED device emits glaring white light with high color rendering index (83.9) and proper correlated color temperature (5570 K). These results demonstrate that the Ca8ZnLa1−xEux(PO4)7 phosphors are a promising candidate for solid‐state lighting.
Novel Er3+/Ho3+‐codoped glass‐ceramic fibers for broadband tunable mid‐infrared fiber lasers
Authors: Kang Shiliang , Yu Hang , Ouyang Tianchang , Chen Qinpeng , Huang Xiongjian , Chen Zhi , Qiu Jianrong , Dong Guoping
Published: April 2018

It is well recognized that a widely wavelength‐tunable mid‐infrared (MIR) fiber laser plays an important role in the development of compact and efficient coherent sources in the MIR range. Herein, the optimizing Er/Ho ratio for enhancement of broadband tunable MIR emission covering 2.6‐2.95 μm in the Er3+/Ho3+‐codoped transparent borosilicate glass‐ceramic (GC) fibers containing NaYF4 nanocrystals under 980 nm excitation was investigated. Specifically, the obtained GC fibers with controllable crystallization and well fsd‐maintained structures were prepared by the novel melt‐in‐tube approach. Owing to the effective energy transfer between Er3+ and Ho3+ after crystallization, the 2.7 μm MIR emission was obviously enhanced and the emission region showed a notable extension from 2.6‐2.82 μm to 2.6‐2.95 μm after the addition of Ho3+. Importantly, we conducted a theoretical simulation and calculation related to the MIR laser performance, signifying that the GC fiber may be a promising candidate for MIR fiber laser. Furthermore, the melt‐in‐tube approach will provide a versatile strategy for the preparation of diverse optical functional GC fibers.
Web building and silk properties functionally covary among species of wolf spider
Authors: Lacava Mariángeles , Camargo Arley , Garcia Luis F. , Benamú Marco A. , Santana Martin , Fang Jian , Wang Xungai , Blamires Sean J.
Published: April 2018

Although phylogenetic studies have shown covariation between the properties of spider major ampullate (MA) silk and web building, both spider webs and silks are highly plastic so we cannot be sure whether these traits functionally covary or just vary across environments that the spiders occupy. As MaSp2‐like proteins provideMAsilk with greater extensibility, their presence is considered necessary for spider webs to effectively capture prey. Wolf spiders (Lycosidae) are predominantly non‐web building, but a select few species build webs. We accordingly collectedMAsilk from two web‐building and six non‐web‐building species found in semirural ecosystems in Uruguay to test whether the presence of MaSp2‐like proteins (indicated by amino acid composition, silk mechanical properties and silk nanostructures) was associated with web building across the group. The web‐building and non‐web‐building species were from disparate subfamilies so we estimated a genetic phylogeny to perform appropriate comparisons. For all of the properties measured, we found differences between web‐building and non‐web‐building species. A phylogenetic regression model confirmed that web building and not phylogenetic inertia influences silk properties. Our study definitively showed an ecological influence over spider silk properties. We expect that the presence of the MaSp2‐like proteins and the subsequent nanostructures improves the mechanical performance of silks within the webs. Our study furthers our understanding of spider web and silk co‐evolution and the ecological implications of spider silk properties.
Swimming performance of 12 Schizothoracinae species from five rivers
Authors: Hou Y. , Cai L. , Wang X. , Chen X. , Zhu D. , Johnson D. , Shi X.
Published: April 2018

A series of stepped velocity tests were carried out in a Brett‐type swimming respirometer and the overall range in swimming performance for 12Schizothoracinaespecies was measured. The relative critical swimming speedUcritand burst speedUburstdecreased with body length, while absoluteUcritandUburstincreased with body length.Ucritincreased with temperature up to approximately 15°C and then decreased. Species with a highUcritalso displayed a higherUburst.