bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Course of auditory vocal hallucinations in childhood: 11‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Bartels‐Velthuis A. A. , Wigman J. T. W. , Jenner J. A. , Bruggeman R. , van Os J.
Published: March 2016

Objective

Childhood auditory vocal hallucinations (AVH) are mostly transient but may predict clinical outcomes. Little is known about their course over time and associations with risk factors, and how this may inform early intervention. Our objective was to assess the 11‐year course of AVH, associated psychopathology and risk factors.

Method

A 5‐year (T1) and 11‐year (T2) follow‐up of a baseline case–control sample (n = 694, of whom 347 with AVH). At T2, online assessment of AVH, other psychotic experiences, psychopathology, trauma and cannabis use was completed by 293 adolescents aged 18–19 years.

Results

The AVH 6‐year (T1–T2) persistence rate was 18.2%, and the AVH 11‐year (T0–T2) persistence rate was 6.2%. AVH at T2 were associated with higher levels of T2 other psychotic experiences, T2 psychopathology and T2 traumatic events, but not with T2 stress or T2 cannabis use. Persistence of AVH (i.e. AVH reported two or three times from T0) was associated with T2 traumatic events and higher risk for post‐traumatic stress disorder.

Conclusion

Auditory vocal hallucinations in early childhood are mostly transitory. AVH in adolescence, especially when persistent, are associated with affective symptoms and environmental risk, particularly traumatic events.
Interleukin‐22 serum levels are elevated in active scleritis
Authors: Sainz‐de‐la‐Maza Maite , Molins Blanca , Mesquida Marina , Llorenç Victor , Zarranz‐Ventura Javier , Sala‐Puigdollers Anna , Matas Jessica , Adan Alfredo , Foster C. Stephen
Published: March 2016

Purpose

To evaluate serum cytokine profile from patients with active scleritis in a two‐centre prospective case–control study.

Methods

The serum of 20 active scleritis patients not treated with any local, periocular, or systemic immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) was analysed with multiplex assay to determine the levels of 11 cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐2, IFN‐γ, IL‐10, IL‐12p40, IL‐13, IL‐17A, IL‐5, TNF‐α, and TNF‐β, and with ELISA to determine the levels of TGF‐β1, IL‐22, and IL‐23. Twenty‐five age‐matched healthy volunteers were used as controls. In a subgroup of 13 patients with active disease, a second serum sample was obtained when the disease was inactive and levels of IL‐22 were determined. Serum IL‐22 levels from patients with active scleritis were correlated with type of scleritis (non‐necrotizing and necrotizing), degree of inflammation (0–4+ :≤2+ and >2+), and associated systemic disease.

Results

Serum levels of IL‐22 were elevated in active scleritis patients compared to controls (6.41 ± 1.52 pg/ml versus 1.93 ± 0.39 pg/ml, p = 0.012) and significantly decreased after scleritis remission with the use of IMT (p = 0.005). There was no statistical association with scleritis type, degree of inflammation, or associated systemic disease. The serum levels of other cytokines were not significantly different from controls.

Conclusion

In our study cohort, IL‐22 serum levels were significantly elevated in active scleritis patients compared to controls and decreased significantly after remission. Our results suggest that IL‐22, a T helper (Th) 17‐ and Th22‐ derived cytokine, may play a critical role in the physiopathology of scleritis.
Bortezomib in the treatment of refractory thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Patriquin Christopher J. , Thomas Mari R. , Dutt Tina , McGuckin Siobhan , Blombery Piers A. , Cranfield Tanya , Westwood John P. , Scully Marie
Published: March 2016

Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare, life‐threatening condition caused by autoantibody‐mediated inhibition of ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type‐1 motif, 13). Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) improves survival, but disease may be refractory despite therapy. Management and treatment response of refractory TTP is variable, with rituximab and other immunosuppression often being used. Case reports have suggested a benefit of the proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, possibly due to elimination of the autoreactive plasma cells producing anti‐ADAMTS13 antibodies. We evaluated the effect of bortezomib in a series of primary refractory TTP patients unresponsive to intensive therapy. Bortezomib‐treated patients were identified from consecutive cases managed at two UK referral centres. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from hospital records. ADAMTS13 activity was measured using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer VWF73 assay, and anti‐ADAMTS13 IgG using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent asssay. We identified six bortezomib‐treated patients out of 51 consecutive cases of acute, acquired TTP. All patients received TPE, methylprednisolone and rituximab. Five of the six achieved complete remission with bortezomib, and one died of cardiac arrest due to underlying disease. No treatment‐related adverse events were observed. Mean follow‐up time after hospital discharge was 17 months (range: 3–33). Bortezomib appears effective in the treatment of a subgroup of cases with severe, refractory TTP. Prospective trials are required to further investigate this effect.
Social Conduct, Learning and Innovation: An Abductive Study of the Dark Side of Agile Software Development
Authors: Annosi Maria Carmela , Magnusson Mats , Martini Antonella , Appio Francesco Paolo
Published: March 2016

Agile methodologies have been adopted by an increasing number of organizations to improve their responsiveness. However, few studies have empirically analysed the effect of Agile on long‐term organizational goals such as learning and innovation. Using an abductive approach, this study examines the relationships between self‐regulated teams' social conduct and their resulting learning and innovation. Results indicate that the time pressure induced by the implementation of Agile impedes team engagement in learning and innovation activities. Time pressure is affected by a set of different control strategies, more specifically concertive, belief, diagnostic and boundary controls, and these need to be adequately addressed in order to minimize the potential dark side of Agile.
Évolution du contrôle et de la confiance dans un PPP international
Authors: Skander Dorra , Préfontaine Lise
Published: March 2016

This article reviews the evolution of control mechanisms and trust types that promote cooperation within the PPP strategies adopted at the international level. One case of international PPP is examined from the negotiated order perspective; the results show all the importance of partnership capacity to make such hybrid strategies both a tremendous financial success and a successful instance of the partnership process. Throughout the cycle of partnership in such international projects, we see the emergence of three types of trust (institutional, inter‐organizational and inter‐personal), and two types of control (formal and social) that co‐exist, are complementary and can be substituted in establishing the safeguards of partnership capacity among parties of the project.
Early childhood education and care reform in Canadian provinces: Understanding the role of experts and evidence in policy change
Authors: A. White Linda , Prentice Susan
Published: March 2016

In over half of Canada's provinces, a recent commission has recommended major reform of ECEC systems; in response, provincial governments in nearly all cases have chosen to implement full‐day kindergarten funded by the province and delivered through public schools. We analyze the commission processes that led to changes to investigate the relationship between experts, policy makers, and policy outcomes. Our analysis of processes in BC, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and PEI leads us to conclude that governments rarely fully implement the programs supported by the evidence base and recommended by their own experts. Instead, recent policy changes have been driven by a highly selective and path‐dependent approach to the complex issue of early childhood care and education.
Measuring parentage policy in the Canadian provinces: A comparative framework
Authors: Snow Dave
Published: March 2016

This paper develops a framework to measure parentage policy based on the legal barriers faced by intended parents, taking into account eligibility requirements, rules for genetic relationships, and surrogacy contract enforceability. It then applies this framework to the Canadian provinces. While parentage policy in Canada is undoubtedly a patchwork, policy change has moved in an increasingly permissive direction, often as a result of litigation. Moreover, this study provides an opportunity to develop broader research project for comparative scholars of parentage policy. Future studies of parentage policy, building from the framework developed here, should qualitatively examine the role of policy implementers other than legislatures and determine how policy learning and transfer affect parentage policy change. Because parentage policy can provide legal certainty for parents and prevent legal disputes, understanding the factors behind policy change is an endeavour with both theoretical and practical significance.
The avidity of PR3-ANCA in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis during follow-up
Authors: Kemna M J , Schlumberger W , van Paassen P , Dähnrich C , Damoiseaux J G M C , Cohen Tervaert J W
Published: March 2016

The objective of this study is to investigate whether the avidity of proteinase-3-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (PR3-ANCA) changes during follow-up in different subgroups of patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). We selected 10 patients with renal relapsing GPA, 10 patients with renal non-relapsing GPA and 10 patients with non-renal relapsing GPA. In all patients, an ANCA rise occurred during remission. The avidity was measured using a chaotropic approach at the time of an ANCA rise and at the time of a relapse in relapsing patients or time-matched during remission in non-relapsing patients. No difference was observed in the avidity at the ANCA rise between renal relapsing patients [26·2% (15·5–47·5)], renal patients without a relapse [39·6% (21·2–63·4)] and non-renal relapsing patients [34·2% (21·6–59·5)]. In renal relapsing patients, the avidity increased significantly from the moment of the ANCA rise to the relapse [difference 6·4% (0·0–17·1), P = 0·0273]. The avidity did not increase after an ANCA rise in renal non-relapsing patients [difference 3·5 (−6·0 to 10·1), P = 0·6250] or in non-renal relapsing patients [difference −3·1% (−8·0 to 5·0), P = 0·5703]. The avidity of PR3-ANCA increases after an ANCA rise during follow-up in renal relapsing patients, but not after an ANCA rise in renal patients who remain in remission or in non-renal relapsing patients.
Review of the ophthalmic manifestations of gout and uric acid crystal deposition
Authors: Ao Jack , Goldblatt Fiona , Casson Robert J
Published: March 2016

Gout is a clinical disorder that is characterized by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals (MSU) in joints and tendons, usually in the presence of prolonged hyperuricaemia. Following an asymptomatic phase of hyperuricaemia, gout usually presents as acute monoarthritis followed by periods of remission and exacerbation. Conjunctival hyperaemia and subconjunctival haemorrhage exacerbated by purine intake are two of the more common manifestations that may go unrecognized. Other ocular and adnexal structures can be affected by urate crystal deposition and associated inflammation, with potentially vision‐threatening consequences; however, ocular manifestations of gout are rare and may have been over‐reported in the older literature, but our understanding of the clinic‐pathological features of ocular urate deposits remains limited.
Dissecting Aneurysm of the Interatrial and Interventricular Septum with Concomitant Ventricular Septal Defect—Multimodality Cardiac Imaging and Surgical Repair
Authors: Zhang Jin‐ping , Meng Hong , Wang Hao
Published: March 2016

We report an exceedingly rare case of spontaneous dissecting aneurysm involving the interatrial and interventricular septum, concomitant ventricular septal defect in an 8‐year‐old girl, echocardiographic and multislice computed tomographic imaging, and successful surgical repair.
Contrast‐Enhanced Echocardiographic Evaluation of a Giant Saphenous Vein Graft Aneurysm
Authors: Omer Mohamed A. , Laster Steven B. , Amin Amit , Main Michael L.
Published: March 2016

A 61‐year‐old man presented with unstable angina 16 years after undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting with a left internal mammary artery graft to the left anterior descending coronary artery and a sequential saphenous vein graft (SVG) to the right coronary artery and an obtuse marginal branch. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with a Philips iE33 machine and an S5 transducer revealed a 5.3 cm × 4.6 cm mass with a central echolucent area, surrounded by a peripheral zone of increased echodensity adjacent to, and partially compressing, the right atrium. Contrast echocardiography following an intravenous bolus injection of Definity revealed late appearance of contrast within the mass consistent with a giant SVG aneurysm. Coronary artery bypass graft angiography revealed a giant aneurysm in the SVG proximal to the RCA anastomosis; the distal limb of the graft to the obtuse marginal branch was occluded. Under intravascular ultrasound guidance, a 7‐mm spider filter was placed in the distal graft; then, a 6 mm × 10 cm Viabahn self‐expanding nitinol polyethylene terephthalate‐covered stent was deployed in the SVG with good seal zones proximally and distally. A follow‐up contrast‐enhanced transthoracic echocardiogram 1 day postprocedure revealed partial thrombosis of the aneurysm cavity. Ultrasound contrast did not appear in the aneurysm following intravenous injection, consistent with complete exclusion from the systemic circulation. This is the first report demonstrating feasibility of contrast‐enhanced transthoracic echocardiography for the diagnosis of SVG aneurysm and confirming procedural success by documenting exclusion from the systemic circulation following intervention.
When Bergmann's rule fails: evidences of environmental selection pressures shaping phenotypic diversification in a widespread seabird
Authors: Nunes Guilherme Tavares , Mancini Patrícia Luciano , Bugoni Leandro
Published: March 2016

Organisms tend to exhibit phenotypes that can be shaped by climate, commonly demonstrating clinal variations along latitudinal gradients. In vertebrates, air temperature plays a major role in shaping body size in both ectothermic and endothermic animals. However, additional small‐scale environmental factors can also act as selection pressures in the marine ecosystem (e.g. primary productivity), evidencing multi‐scale processes acting on marine organisms. In this study, we tested Bergmann's rule in a widely distributed seabird, the brown booby Sula leucogaster, in addition to evaluating the relationship of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll α with phenotypes. We used traits from a morphometric dataset (culmen, wing chord, and tarsus length) and body mass of 276 brown boobies distributed on six breeding sites along a latitudinal gradient in the South Atlantic Ocean (0–27°S). We found significant differentiation among colonies, but phenotypic similarities were observed between colonies located at the extremes of the latitudinal gradient. As the colony nearest to the Equator, Saint Peter and Saint Paul archipelago, had the largest and heaviest individuals, the model containing only air temperature explained < 5% of the allometric variation, providing no substantial support for Bergmann's rule. However, when we added the interaction of chlorophyll α and sea surface temperature the deviance explained rose to over 80%. Primary productivity and sea surface temperature do not follow a latitudinal gradient in the ocean and, therefore, the role of small‐scale oceanographic processes in shaping body size and the importance of considering additional environmental variables when testing Bergmann's rule in marine organisms are evident.
Long‐termEEGin patients with the ring chromosome 20 epilepsy syndrome
Authors: Freire de Moura Maria , Flores‐Guevara Roberto , Gueguen Bernard , Biraben Arnaud , Renault Francis
Published: March 2016

The recognizable electroencephalography (EEG) pattern of ring chromosome 20 epilepsy syndrome can be missing in patients with r(20) chromosomal anomaly, and may be found in patients with frontal lobe epilepsy of other origin. This study aims to search for more specificEEGsigns by using long‐term recordings and measuring the duration of paroxysmal anomalies. The series included 12 adult patients with r(20) anomaly, and 12 controls without any chromosomal aberration. We measured the duration of every paroxysmal burst and calculated the sum of their durations for each long‐termEEGrecording. We compared patients to controls using the Mann‐WhitneyU‐test. Every patient showed long‐lasting paroxysmalEEGbursts, up to 60 min; controls did not show any bursts longer than 60 s (p < 0.0001). The total duration of paroxysmal anomalies was significantly longer in patients (31–692 min) compared to controls (0–48 min) (p < 0.0001). Thus, long‐term recordings enhance the contribution ofEEGmethods for characterizing the ring 20 chromosome epilepsy syndrome.
Random subspace method with class separability weighting
Authors: Mert Ahmet , Kılıç Niyazi , Bilgili Erdem
Published: March 2016

The random subspace method (RSM) is one of the ensemble learning algorithms widely used in pattern classification applications. RSM has the advantages of small error rate and improved noise insensitivity due to ensemble construction of the base‐learners. However, randomness may cause a reduction of the final ensemble decision performance because of contributions of classifiers trained by subsets with low class separability. In this study, we present a new and improved version of the RSM by introducing a weighting factor into the combination phase. One of the class separability criteria, J3, is used as a weighting factor to improve the classification performance and eliminate the drawbacks of the standard RSM algorithm. The randomly selected subsets are quantified by computing their J3 measure to determine voting weights in the model combination phase, assigning lower voting weight to classifiers trained by subsets with poor class separability. Two models are presented including J3‐weighted RSM and optimized J3 weighted RSM. In J3 weighted RSM, computed weighting values are directly multiplied by class assignment posteriors, whereas in optimized J3 weighted RSM, computed weighting values are optimized by a pattern search algorithm before multiplying by posteriors. Both models are shown to provide better error rates at lower subset dimensionality.
Crystal structure and interaction studies of the human FBxo3 ApaG domain
Authors: Krzysiak Troy C. , Chen Bill B. , Lear Travis , Mallampalli Rama K. , Gronenborn Angela M.
Published: March 2016

Transcriptional activation of proinflammatory cytokines, mediated by tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factors (TRAFs), is in part triggered by the degradation of the F‐box protein, FBxl2, via an E3 ligase that contains another F‐box protein, FBxo3. The ApaG domain of FBxo3 is required for the interaction with and degradation of FBxl2 [Mallampalli RK et al., (2013) J Immunol 191, 5247–5255]. Here, we report the X‐ray structure of the human FBxo3 ApaG domain, residues 278–407, at 2.0 Å resolution. Like bacterial ApaG proteins, this domain is characterized by a classic Immunoglobin/Fibronectin III‐type fold, comprising a seven‐stranded β‐sheet core, surrounded by four extended loops. Although cation binding had been proposed for bacterial ApaG proteins, no interactions with Mg2+ or Co2+ were detected for the human ApaG domain. In addition, dinucleotide polyphosphates, which have been reported to be second messengers in the inflammation response and targets of the bacterial apaG‐containing operon, are not bound by the human ApaG domain. In the context of the full‐length protein, loop 1, comprising residues 294–303, is critical for the interaction with FBxl2. However, titration of the individual ApaG domain with a 15‐mer FBxl2 peptide that was phosphorylated on the crucial T404, as well as the inability of the ApaG domain to interact with full‐length FBxl2, assessed by coimmunoprecipitation, indicate that the ApaG domain alone is necessary, but not sufficient for binding and degradation of FBxl2.

Database

PDB ID (5HDW).
Dynamic responses of nitrous oxide emission and nitrogen use efficiency to nitrogen and biochar amendment in an intensified vegetable field in southeastern China
Authors: Li Bo , Bi Zhichao , Xiong Zhengqin
Published: March 2016

Intensive vegetable production exhibits contrasting characteristics of high nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions and low nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). In an effort to mitigate N2O emissions and improve NUE, a field experiment with nine consecutive vegetable crops was designed to study the combined effects of nitrogen (N) and biochar amendment and their interaction on soil properties, N2O emission and NUE in an intensified vegetable field in southeastern China. We found that N application significantly increased N2O emissions, N2O–N emission factors and yield‐scaled N2O emissions by 51–159%, 9–125% and 14–131%, respectively. Moreover, high N input significantly decreased N partial factor productivity (PFPN) and even yield during the seventh to ninth vegetable crops along with obvious soil degradation and mineral N accumulation. To the contrary, biochar amendment resulted in significant decreases in cumulative N2O emissions, N2O–N emission factor and yield‐scaled N2O emissions by 5–39%, 16–67% and 14–53%, respectively. In addition, biochar significantly increased yield, PFPN and apparent recovery of N (ARN). Although without obvious influence during the first to fourth vegetable crops, biochar amendment mitigated N2O emissions during the fifth to ninth vegetable crops. The relative effects of biochar amendments were reduced with increasing N application rate. Hence, while high N input produced adverse consequences such as mineral N accumulation and soil degradation in the vegetable field, biochar amendment can be a beneficial agricultural strategy to mitigate N2O emissions and improve NUE and soil quality in vegetable field.
A subset of ectomesenchymal chondromyxoid tumours of the tongue show EWSR1 rearrangements and are genetically linked to soft tissue myoepithelial neoplasms: a study of 11 cases
Authors: Argyris Prokopios P , Bilodeau Elizabeth A , Yancoskie Aaron E , Trochesset Denise , Pambuccian Stefan E , Wetzel Stephanie L , Shah Sonal S , Edelman Morris , Freedman Paul , Dolan Michelle , Koutlas Ioannis G
Published: March 2016

Aims

Ectomesenchymal chondromyxoid tumour (ECT) is a rare, benign intraoral neoplasm showing a predilection for the anterior dorsum of the tongue. The World Health Organization includes ECT in the pathological spectrum of soft tissue myoepithelioma. EWS RNA‐binding protein 1 gene (EWSR1) rearrangement is found in 45% of cutaneous, soft tissue and bone myoepithelial neoplasms, and pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) aberrations are found in 37% of EWSR1‐negative soft tissue myoepitheliomas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of EWSR1 and PLAG1 rearrangements in ECTs.

Methods and results

Eleven formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded ECTs were evaluated with fluorescence in‐situ hybridization probes for EWSR1 (22q12) and PLAG1 (8q12). Among the 11 ECTs tested, three (27.3%) showed EWSR1 rearrangement in >15% of tumour cells, whereas eight (72.7%) cases did not show EWSR1 rearrangement. Eight of nine (89%) ECTs showed gain of EWSR1, probably representing gain of all or part of chromosome 22, in a varying proportion of neoplastic cells ranging between 1.4% and 27.9%. PLAG1 rearrangement was not detected in the successfully hybridized tissue sections (7/11). No correlation was observed between the molecular and histopathological findings, such as morphology of the neoplastic cells, the presence of atypia, and matrical type.

Conclusions

We identified EWSR1 rearrangement in >25% of ECTs. These results suggest that some ECTs are at least genetically related to myoepithelioma of the soft parts. Finally, PLAG1 aberrations do not appear to be critical in the pathogenesis of ECT of the tongue.
The impact of intensive care in a private hospital on patients aged 80 and over: health‐related quality of life, functional status and burden versus benefit
Authors: Levinson M. , Mills A. , Oldroyd J. , Gellie A. , Barrett J. , Staples M. , Stephenson G.
Published: March 2016

Background

Greater numbers of persons aged over 80 years are admitted to intensive care units (ICU) compared with 15 years ago. Outcomes other than death such as physical dependence and cognitive impairment and treatment burden are important to older people.

Aims

The aims of this study were to determine the long‐term outcomes of functional impairment, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and the self‐reported burden of treatment in a sample of patients aged 80 years and above admitted to ICU. Half of the cohort were admitted for elective cardiac surgery, the rest for non‐cardiac surgery and medical conditions.

Methods

In this longitudinal cohort study, in a tertiary level ICU, we measured HRQoL using the SF‐36 and functional status using the modified Barthel Index at several time points over a 2‐year follow‐up period. We also assessed treatment burden by asking participants whether they thought the episode of care was worthwhile.

Results

A total of 348 patients was recruited into the study. One‐fifth of the cohort had died by the 2‐year follow‐up data collection point. There was an improvement in physical functioning in the cardiac surgery group at 6 months which was not sustained. There was no change in HRQoL at 2 years in either group. The majority valued the episode of care.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that HRQoL and previous lifestyle is preserved in the majority following ICU admission, associated with a high level of patient valuation of the episode of care.
Molecular Phylogeny and Evolutionary Relationships between the Ciliate Genera Peniculistoma and Mytilophilus (Peniculistomatidae, Pleuronematida)
Authors: Antipa Gregory A. , Dolan John R. , Lynn Denis H. , Obolkina Lubov A. , Strüder‐Kypke Michaela C.
Published: March 2016

Peniculistoma mytili and Mytilophilus pacificae are placed in the pleuronematid scuticociliate family Peniculistomatidae based on morphology and ecological preference for the mantle cavity of mytiloid bivalves. We tested this placement with sequences of the small subunit rRNA (SSUrRNA) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) genes. These species are very closely related sister taxa with no distinct genetic difference in the SSUrRNA sequence but about 21% genetic difference for cox1, supporting their placement together but separation as distinct taxa. Using infection frequencies, M. pacificae, like its sister species P. mytili, does not interact with Ancistrum spp., co‐inhabitants of the mantle cavity. On the basis of these ecological similarities, the fossil record of host mussels, and features of morphology and stomatogenesis of these two ciliates, we argue that M. pacificae derived from a Peniculistoma‐like ancestor after divergence of the two host mussels. Our phylogenetic analyses of pleuronematid ciliates includes the SSUrRNA gene sequence of Sulcigera comosa, a Histiobalantium‐like ciliate from Lake Baikal. We conclude: (i) that the pleuronematids are a monophyletic group; (ii) that the genus Pleuronema is paraphyletic; and (iii) that S. comosa is a Histiobalantium species. We transfer S. comosa to Histiobalantium and propose a new combination Histiobalantium comosa n. comb.
Extra‐pancreatic necrosis alone: Contours of an emerging entity
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Rana Surinder S , Bhasin Deepak K
Published: March 2016

Acute pancreatitis is of two morphologic types: interstitial edematous pancreatitis that is not associated with any tissue necrosis and necrotizing pancreatitis wherein the pancreatic parenchyma with or without varying amount of extra‐pancreatic tissue/fat undergoes necrosis. Necrotizing pancreatitis has a worse outcome compared with interstitial pancreatitis because of increased severity related to a heightened systemic response and cytokine storm associated with tissue necrosis. Increasingly, an entity of extra‐pancreatic necrosis (EPN) alone, wherein the pancreatic parenchyma is normal on an enhanced computed tomographic scan but the peri‐pancreatic tissues undergo necrosis, is being recognized. Available data suggest that the outcomes in patients with EPN alone are between the excellent prognosis of patients with interstitial and adverse prognosis of patients with necrotizing pancreatitis. The extent of EPN also seems to determine the outcome. This review summarizes the currently available literature on this entity and various radiological scores that have been suggested to determine the presence and stage of EPN.
Loss and Benefit Caused by a Diesel Engine: From the Perspective of Human Health
Authors: Afrinaldi Feri , Zhang Hong‐Chao , Liu Zhi‐Chao , Hernandez Annette
Published: March 2016

This article presents a model that quantifies the health loss and benefit triggered by the life cycle of a diesel engine. The health loss and benefit are expressed in the form of disability‐adjusted life years (DALY), a metric used by the World Health Organization to conduct health impact assessments. In order to quantify the health loss, life cycle assessment methodology is applied. To estimate the health benefit, the relationship between DALY per capita and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita is modeled. The change in GDP per capita, resulting from the change in the level of employee compensation caused by the life cycle of the diesel engine, is used to estimate the change in the level of DALY per capita. An economic input‐output model is applied to estimate the amount of employee compensation required over the life cycle of the diesel engine. This study concludes that the health benefit achieved by the socioeconomic growth, triggered by the life cycle of the diesel engine, is higher than the health loss caused by the pollutions produced over the life cycle of the diesel engine. Furthermore, the results support findings in the literature that socioeconomic growth generates a higher health benefit in a lower‐income country than in a higher‐income country. This also might be one of the reasons for another statement found in the literature that developing countries put higher priorities on economic development.
Performance Management and the Stifling of Academic Freedom and Knowledge Production
Authors: Morrish Liz , Sauntson Helen
Published: March 2016

In an era of neoliberal reforms, academics in UK universities have become increasingly enmeshed in audit, particularly of research ‘outputs’. Using the data of performance management and training documents, this paper analyses the role of discourse in redefining the meaning of research, and in colonizing a new kind of entrepreneurial, corporate academic. The new regime in universities is characterized by slippage between the audit and disciplinary functions of performance management. We conclude that academic freedom is unlikely to emerge from a system which demands compliance with a regime of unattainable targets and constant surveillance.
“By Whose Definition?”: The University of Saskatchewan's Firing of a Dean and the Textual Battle to Define Academic Freedom in Canada
Authors: Sale Carolyn
Published: March 2016

The article focuses on the firing of a dean at Canada's University of Saskatchewan in 2014 to consider both the decidedly weak response to this event as an infringement of academic freedom protections, and the corporate instrument that was cited as the excuse for the firing, an employment contract's confidentiality clause. The central concerns are with the relationship of academic freedom to freedom of expression more generally, and the textual battle in Canada for the definition of academic freedom in which (in the face of the silence of academics at all levels) administrative imperatives shaped by a neoliberal agenda are currently dominating.
Long‐term effects of very low‐carbohydrate and high‐carbohydrate weight‐loss diets on psychological health in obese adults with type 2 diabetes: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Brinkworth G. D. , Luscombe‐Marsh N. D. , Thompson C. H. , Noakes M. , Buckley J. D. , Wittert G. , Wilson C. J.
Published: March 2016

Background/Objective

Very low‐carbohydrate, high‐fat (LC) diets are used for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) management, but their effects on psychological health remain largely unknown. This study examined the long‐term effects of an LC diet on psychological health.

Methods

One hundred and fifteen obese adults [age: 58.5 ± 7.1 years; body mass index: 34.6 ± 4.3 kg m−2; HbA1c: 7.3 ± 1.1%] with T2DM were randomized to consume either an energy‐restricted (~6 to 7 MJ), planned isocaloric LC or high‐carbohydrate, low‐fat (HC) diet, combined with a supervised exercise programme (3 days week−1) for 1 year. Body weight, psychological mood state and well‐being [Profile of Mood States (POMS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory (SAI)] and diabetes‐specific emotional distress [Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) Questionnaire] and quality of life [QoL Diabetes‐39 (D‐39)] were assessed.

Results

Overall weight loss was 9.5 ± 0.5 kg (mean ± SE), with no difference between groups (P = 0.91 time × diet). Significant improvements occurred in BDI, POMS (total mood disturbance and the six subscales of anger‐hostility, confusion‐bewilderment, depression‐dejection, fatigue‐inertia, vigour‐activity and tension‐anxiety), PAID (total score) and the D‐39 dimensions of diabetes control, anxiety and worry, sexual functioning and energy and mobility, P < 0.05 time. SAI and the D‐39 dimension of social burden remained unchanged (P ≥ 0.08 time). Diet composition had no effect on the responses for the outcomes assessed (P ≥ 0.22 time × diet).

Conclusion

In obese adults with T2DM, both diets achieved substantial weight loss and comparable improvements in QoL, mood state and affect. These results suggest that either an LC or HC diet within a lifestyle modification programme that includes exercise training improves psychological well‐being.
Breastfeeding and infant hospitalisation: analysis of the UK 2010 Infant Feeding Survey
Authors: Payne Sarah , Quigley Maria A.
Published: March 2016

To investigate the contributions of overall breastfeeding duration and exclusive breastfeeding in reducing the risk of hospitalisation for infectious causes, we analysed data from a three‐stage survey on infant feeding practices and health outcomes in over 10 000 UK women in 2010–2011. The main outcome measures were risk of overnight hospital admission in the first 8–10 months of infancy. A graded beneficial effect was found between longer duration of any breastfeeding and hospital admission for infectious causes and for respiratory tract infections, with a significantly lower risk in infants breastfed for at least 3 months compared with those never breastfed. The effects were stronger in the subgroup who was also exclusively breastfed. For example, among infants breastfed for 3–6 months, the reduction in risk for infectious causes for those who were also exclusively breastfed for at least 6 weeks was 0.42 (95% CI: 0.22–0.81) and for those not exclusively breastfed for 6 weeks 0.79 (95% CI: 0.49–1.26). Likewise, among infants breastfed for 6 months or more, the odds ratio for those who were also exclusively breastfed for at least 6 weeks was 0.48 (95% CI: 0.32–0.72) and for those not exclusively breastfed for 6 weeks 0.72 (95% CI: 0.48–1.08). The apparent protective effect of any breastfeeding for a long duration may in part be driven by a prolonged period of exclusive breastfeeding. Exclusive breastfeeding in the initial weeks after childbirth and continuing to breastfeed (either exclusively or partially) for at least 3 months, preferably 6 months, may reduce morbidity due to infectious illness in infants.
Teaching L2 Spanish Sociopragmatics Through Concepts: A Classroom‐Based Study
Authors: VAN COMPERNOLLE RÉMI A. , GOMEZ–LAICH MARIA PIA , WEBER ASHLEY
Published: March 2016

This study explores the teaching of second language (L2) Spanish sociopragmatics through concept‐based pragmatics instruction (van Compernolle, ). The concepts of self‐presentation, social distance, and power were the focus of a pedagogical enrichment program in 2 sections of a beginning‐level Spanish class at a northeastern U.S. university. The concepts were illustrated by the Spanish second person pronoun system (i.e., tú vs. usted). The analysis centers on preenrichment and postenrichment performances on 3 tasks: (a) a language awareness survey, (b) an appropriateness judgment task, and (c) a written discourse completion task. Results show positive gains in conceptual sociopragmatic knowledge and the ability to apply this knowledge when making pragmalinguistic choices. However, morphosyntactic accuracy in performance appears to lag behind conceptual knowledge.
The NLRP3 inflammasome in kidney disease and autoimmunity
Authors: Hutton Holly L , Ooi Joshua D , Holdsworth Stephen R , Kitching A Richard
Published: March 2016

The NLRP3 inflammasome is an intracellular platform that converts the pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18 to their active forms in response to ‘danger’ signals, which can be either host or pathogen derived, and mediates a form of inflammatory cell death called pyroptosis. This component of the innate immune system was initially discovered because of its role in rare autoinflammatory syndromes called cryopyrinopathies, but it has since been shown to mediate injurious inflammation in a broad range of diseases. Inflammasome activation occurs in both immune cells, primarily macrophages and dendritic cells, and in some intrinsic kidney cells such as the renal tubular epithelium. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of renal conditions, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy and crystal‐related nephropathy. The inflammasome also plays a role in autoimmune kidney disease, as IL‐1β and IL‐18 influence adaptive immunity through modulation of T helper cell subsets, skewing development in favour of Th17 and Th1 cells that are important in the development of autoimmunity. Both IL‐1 blockade and two recently identified specific NLRP3 inflammasome blockers, MCC950 and β‐hydroxybutyrate, have shown promise in the treatment of inflammasome‐mediated conditions. These targeted therapies have the potential to be of benefit in the growing number of kidney diseases in which the NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated.
Randomized clinical trial: a controlled pilot trial of the 5‐HT4 receptor agonist revexepride in patients with symptoms suggestive of gastroparesis
Authors: Tack J. , Rotondo A. , Meulemans A. , Thielemans L. , Cools M.
Published: March 2016

Background

Gastroparesis is a chronic gastric disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying without mechanical obstruction, and clinical symptoms as postprandial fullness, early satiety, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Prokinetic agents are used for the treatment of gastroparesis. Revexepride, a 5‐hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor (5‐HT4R) agonist, could be a good candidate drug for the gastroparesis treatment. Aim: In the current phase II, exploratory, double‐blind, randomized, stratified, placebo‐controlled, repeated dose trial (EudraCT number 2007‐004997‐23), the efficacy on gastrointestinal symptoms and gastric emptying rate, safety, and pharmacokinetic profile of three oral doses of revexepride (0.02, 0.1, and 0.5 mg administered orally t.i.d. for 4 weeks) was evaluated in trial participants (diabetic and non‐diabetic) with upper gastrointestinal tract symptoms suggestive for gastroparesis.

Methods

Eighty participants, enrolled in four parallel treatment groups, were asked to score their symptom diary data, gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI), patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal disorders‐symptom severity index (PAGI‐SYM), quality of life questionnaires, and meal‐related symptom score. Gastric emptying rate was evaluated by 13C‐octanoic acid breath test.

Key Results

The severity of the symptoms assessed by means of GCSI and PAGI‐SYM decreased at Week 2 and decreased further at Week 4 in all treatment groups including placebo, with similar trends in all treatment groups. Quality of life improved in all treatment groups after 4 weeks of treatment. No differences on gastric emptying rate were shown between any of the active treatment groups and placebo. Revexepride was generally safe and well‐tolerated.

Conclusions & Inferences

Four weeks of revexepride treatment did not improve symptoms or gastric emptying over placebo in patients with symptoms suggestive of gastroparesis.
DNA vaccine against visceral leishmaniasis: a promising approach for prevention and control
Authors: Kumar A. , Samant M.
Published: March 2016

The visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania donovani parasite severely affects large populations in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The arsenal of drugs available is limited, and resistance is common in clinical field isolates. Therefore, vaccines could be an important alternative for prevention against VL. Recently, some investigators advocated the protective efficacy of DNA vaccines, which induces the T cell‐based immunity against VL. The vaccine antigens are selected as conserved in various Leishmania species and provide a viable strategy for DNA vaccine development. Our understanding for DNA vaccine development against VL is not enough and much technological advancement is required. Improved formulations and methods of delivery are required, which increase the uptake of DNA vaccine by cells; optimization of vaccine vectors/encoded antigens to augment and direct the host immune response in VL. Despite the many genes identified as vaccine candidates, the disappointing potency of the DNA vaccines in VL underscores the challenges encountered in the efforts to translate efficacy in preclinical models into clinical realities. This review will provide a brief background of DNA vaccines including the insights gained about the design, strategy, safety issues, varied candidates, progress and challenges that play a role in their ability against VL.
Screening of rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars for resistance to rice black streaked dwarf virus using quantitative PCR and visual disease assessment
Authors: Hajano J.‐U.‐D. , Zhang H. B. , Ren Y. D. , Lu C. T. , Wang X. F.
Published: March 2016

Rice black streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) causing rice black streaked dwarf disease is transmitted by the small brown planthopper (SBPH, Laodelphax striatellus) in a persistent propagative manner. The disease is considered among the most destructive in rice production in east and southeast Asia. For sustainable control of the disease, planting resistant cultivars is the most economical and efficient method. The virus content in different rice cultivars was quantified using a TaqMan RT‐qPCR assay under greenhouse conditions and the disease was visually assessed in these cultivars in both greenhouse and field conditions. Results revealed significant positive moderate correlation (r = 0.3787; P = 0.0009) between the virus content and visual disease assessment in the greenhouse under forced inoculation. Among 66 rice cultivars, there was no significant difference in RBSDV genome equivalent copies (GEC) in seven cultivars, namely Lian‐dao 9805 (200.2 ± 12), Liangyou 3399 (206.6 ± 28), Ningjing 4 (206.6 ± 28), DaLiang 207 (302.0 ± 61), X 008 (354.0 ± 30), Shengdao 301 (658.4 ± 69) and Liangyou 1129 (679.5 ± 98). These cultivars were also visually assessed as resistant under greenhouse and field conditions. These cultivars could be used in disease management to reduce the likelihood of epidemics.
Diarrhoea and Suboptimal Feeding Practices in Nigeria: Evidence from the National Household Surveys
Authors: Ogbo Felix A. , Page Andrew , Idoko John , Claudio Fernanda , Agho Kingsley E.
Published: March 2016

Background

Globally, Nigeria has the largest burden of infectious diseases (including diarrhoea). Optimal feeding practices have been well‐documented to protect against diarrhoea in other contexts; but this benefit has not been broadly studied in Nigeria. The study aimed to examine the association between diarrhoea and childhood feeding practices to provide country‐specific evidence.

Method

Data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey for the period spanning 1999–2013 were used. Prevalence of diarrhoea by infant and young child feeding indicators was estimated, and the association between diarrhoea and childhood feeding indicators was examined using multilevel regression analyses.

Results

Prevalence of diarrhoea was higher among children whose mothers did not initiate breast feeding within the first hour of birth, infants who were not exclusively breastfed, and infants who were prematurely introduced to complementary foods. Early initiation of breast feeding was significantly associated with lower risk of diarrhoea (RR 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63, 0.74). Exclusively breastfed infants were less likely to develop diarrhoea compared to non‐exclusively breastfed infants (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.44, 0.86). Predominant breast feeding was significantly associated with a lower risk of diarrhoea (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.54, 0.80). Bottle feeding and introduction of complementary foods were associated with a higher risk of diarrhoea.

Conclusion

Early initiation of breast feeding as well as exclusive and predominant breast feeding protect against diarrhoea in Nigeria, while bottle feeding and introduction of complementary foods were risk factors for diarrhoea. Community‐ and facility‐based initiatives are needed to improve feeding practices, and to reduce diarrhoea prevalence in Nigeria.
What Do Demand and Supply Shocks Say About Caribbean Monetary Integration?
Authors: Braithwaite Samuel
Published: March 2016

This study seeks to ascertain whether the member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) share similar supply and demand shocks. If so, an argument can be made for the suitability of said countries being part of a currency union. The results show that no significant correlation exists for the majority of countries studied, and as such no economic justification for the monetary union can be made based on the methodology used. However, the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU), whose members are a part of CARICOM, is supported by the results.