bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malformation risk of antiepileptic drug exposure during pregnancy in women with epilepsy: Results from a pregnancy registry in South India
Authors: Thomas Sanjeev V. , Jose Manna , Divakaran Srividya , Sankara Sarma Prabhakaran
Published: January 2017

Objective

Kerala Registry of Epilepsy and Pregnancy had been prospectively evaluating the reproductive issues of women with epilepsy since April 1998. This analysis aimed to estimate the relative risk of major congenital malformations (MCM) to the registrants.

Methods

All pregnancies with known outcome in this register until December 2013 were included. Malformation status was evaluated by antenatal ultrasonography, physical examination at birth, echocardiography, and abdomen ultrasonography at 3 months of age and a final review at 1 year of age.

Results

There were 1,688 fetuses (singlets 1,643, twins 21, and triplet 1) resulting in 1,622 live births. All were born to women of Asian origin living in South India. TheMCMrate for all live births was 6.84% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.71–8.18) and for all pregnancy outcomes including fetal loss was 7.11% (95%CI5.98–8.44). TheMCMrates (mean with 95%CI) for exposed group were 6.4% (5.03–8.03) for monotherapy and 9.9% (7.37–13.13) for polytherapy; internal control group (women with epilepsy [WWE] not on antiepileptic drugs [AEDs] in first trimester) 5.6% (3.34–9.11), external control group (women without epilepsy orAEDexposure in first trimester) 3.45% (1.94–6.07). Valproate monotherapy group had a dose‐dependent relative risk forMCMof 2.6 (95%CI1.30–5.20) compared to the external control group. The preliminary data onMCMrate for the nine total clobazam monotherapy (22.2%; 95%CI6.2–54.7) signals increased risk that needs further validation on larger sample size. There was no association betweenMCMrate and maternal socioeconomic status, epilepsy syndrome, or use of folic acid in first trimester.

Significance

This dataset from South India confirms the increased risk ofMCMwith exposure toAEDs, particularly polytherapy. A dose‐dependent increased risk was observed with valproate. The increased risk associated with clobazam monotherapy is an important signal that needs to be confirmed in a larger sample.
Carvacrol after status epilepticus (SE) prevents recurrent SE, early seizures, cell death, and cognitive decline
Authors: Khalil Aytakin , Kovac Stjepana , Morris Gareth , Walker Matthew C.
Published: January 2017

Objective

Carvacrol is a naturally occurring monoterpenic phenol that has been suggested to have an action at transient receptor potential cation subfamily M7 (TRPM7) channels, γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABAA receptors, and sodium channels, and has been shown to be antiinflammatory. Carvacrol is neuroprotective in models of cerebral ischemia in vivo and in vitro, probably through its action at TRPM7 channels. We therefore aimed to determine the effect of carvacrol on status epilepticus (SE), chronic epilepsy, cell death, and post‐SE cognitive decline.

Methods

We performed long‐term, continuous wireless electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring in vivo in rats who underwent perforant path stimulation (PPS) to induce SE and were then randomized to treatment with carvacrol or saline. We also evaluated TRPM7 receptor expression and quantified seizure‐induced cell death. The alternating T‐maze paradigm was used to assess memory function.

Results

Immunostaining showed that TRPM7 channels are widely expressed in neurons within the hippocampus. We found that carvacrol inhibited recurrent SE and early seizures in vivo, but had no detectable effect in the hippocampus on paired‐pulse inhibition or the fiber volley, indicating that it was not acting through sodium channel inhibition or GABA receptors. Although the development and severity of chronic epilepsy were not altered by carvacrol, cognitive decline was significantly improved in animals treated with carvacrol. In keeping with preserved memory functions in animals treated with carvacrol, carvacrol had a protective effect against SE‐induced cell death in CA1 and hilus, the hippocampal regions most affected by cell loss in the PPS epilepsy model.

Significance

Carvacrol, a naturally occurring inhibitor of TRPM7 channels, is a novel, promising treatment to prevent early recurrence of SE, SE‐related neuronal damage, and cognitive decline.
Use of the ketogenic diet in the neonatal intensive care unit—Safety and tolerability
Authors: Thompson Lindsey , Fecske Erin , Salim Mohammad , Hall Ara
Published: January 2017

Drug‐resistant epilepsy poses a challenge in neonatal patients, especially those in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), who have various secondary comorbidities. We present results of four children with a history of drug‐resistant epilepsy for whom a ketogenic diet was initiated and used in the NICU. A nonfasting induction into ketosis over 1–2 weeks was utilized, with gradual increases in the ketogenic ratio every 2–3 days. Data were collected retrospectively from a database, which included medical history, daily progress notes, relevant laboratory data, and imaging and diagnostic information. The ketogenic diet was well tolerated in all cases. The most common side effects observed were constipation, hypoglycemia, and weight loss. Serum β‐hydroxybutyrate levels demonstrated improved reliability as a marker of ketosis when compared to urine ketones in this population. Perceived benefits to the infants included improved seizure control, increased alertness, and decreased need for invasive respiratory support. These cases demonstrate that the use of the ketogenic diet for treatment of neonatal encephalopathy and refractory epilepsy can be undertaken safely in the NICU and is well tolerated by carefully screened neonates and infants.
Are Odd‐Lot Orders Informed?
Authors: Upson James , Johnson Hardy
Published: January 2017

Using a version of the ITCH data set time stamped to the millisecond, O'Hara, Yao and Ye find that odd‐lot trades are highly informed. However, NASDAQ reports trades based on the size of the resting limit order, creating a bias in the count of odd‐lot trades. Using ITCH data from 2013, time stamped to the nanosecond, we find that roughly 50% of odd‐lot trades are created by the resting limit order and are part of larger marketable orders. We show that odd‐lot marketable orders are not more informed than round/mixed lot marketable orders.
Development and Functioning of FX Markets in Asia and the Pacific
Authors: Levich Richard M. , Packer Frank
Published: January 2017

Global foreign exchange (FX) trading volume in traditional FX products and derivatives in Asia and the Pacific has expanded rapidly over the last fifteen years, more so than in other regions. Asian currencies also have experienced exceptional growth in offshore turnover, including non‐deliverable forwards (NDFs). Trading activity on this scale spread across many countries and currencies underscores the need for a well‐functioning infrastructure and exceptional risk management processes. While settlement risks are mitigated for the vast majority of turnover through systems like CLS Bank, the Asia Pacific region would benefit by having more countries and currencies become CLS enabled or tradable under other Payment versus payment (PVP) systems. Though less pronounced than during the global financial crisis, FX markets in the region experienced added turbulence during the “taper tantrum” period of 2013. High turnover currencies tended to depreciate more after taper announcements; though volatility rose more sharply in currencies with low turnover. The FX market is a prominent venue for carry trades that are subject to crash risk. While there is some evidence of herding behavior exacerbating this risk over the past decade, the measures calibrated more recently do not suggest exceptional crowding into carry trades ahead of the “taper tantrum” in 2013. At the same time, our measures of crowdedness for the carry trade show considerable variation over time. Making crowdedness measures publicly available might be advisable.
Modelling giant red shrimp larval dispersal in the Sardinian seas: density and connectivity scenarios
Authors: Palmas Francesco , Olita Antonio , Addis Piero , Sorgente Roberto , Sabatini Andrea
Published: January 2017

The connectivity and three‐dimensional (3D) dispersion of the larvae of giant red shrimp, potentially released from known spawning areas along the Sardinia slope in the western Mediterranean Sea, were assessed using Lagrangian simulations forced by a 3D submesoscale permitting a regional ocean model. Biophysical simulations using the hydrodynamic conditions of the year 2012 were run to track propagules released from known spawning areas during the spawning period (May to September). Passive transport (PT) and vertical migration (VM) scenarios were tested, each with two possible pelagic larval durations (PLDs) of 21 or 42 days. Dispersion of propagules in the PT and VM scenarios differed in terms of travelled distance, export out of the domain (larger for VM), and depth distribution (shallower and bimodal for VM due to the larger variability of encountered currents). Connectivity patterns were investigated among eight release areas, and four predetermined Eco‐Regions, and results showed strong connectivity among the North‐Western (NW), Western (W), and Southern (S) regions of Sardinia, whereas the Eastern region was more segregated. Differences in connectivity patterns among scenarios were related mainly to the tendency of greater retention of propagules in the release area for the PT scenarios. This finding, together with existing hypotheses of vertical migration likely occurring during first egg‐larval phases, suggest that the VM scenarios are the most probable of the two hypotheses tested. Strong connectivity between the W and S sides of Sardinia and the relative isolation of the E side could have significant implications for the protection of this important resource.
Effects of a marine‐protected area occurred incidentally after the Great East Japan Earthquake on the Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) population off northeastern Honshu, Japan
Authors: Narimatsu Yoji , Shibata Yasutoki , Hattori Tsutomu , Yano Toshikazu , Nagao Jiro
Published: January 2017

The population of Pacific cod inhabiting off northeastern Honshu Japan has remarkably increased in the 3 yr after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. We examined the processes and factors leading to this increase based on the results of estimations of commercial catch and fishing activities, and trawl surveys. Pacific cod was highly exploited from 1 yr old before 2011. However, fishing pressure has markedly decreased after 2011 in the area around Fukushima waters. Fish abundance in 2013 and 2014 was estimated to be more than four‐fold of the maximum amount before 2011. The cohort structure of the population in 2013 and 2014 was primarily composed of 2–4‐yr‐old fish (2010–2011 yr classes) whereas the population in pre‐2011 was primarily of 1‐yr‐old fish. The 2010–2011 yr classes had almost the same population sizes until 1.3 yr old to the pre‐2009 yr classes, but became much higher more than 2.8 yr old. Pacific cod from 1.3 to 2.8 yr old were concentrated in the area off Fukushima Prefecture. These results suggest that Pacific cod increased post‐2011 not because of the occurrence of strong year classes followed by good recruitments but because of the lower mortality after recruitment owing to reduced fishing mortality. Waters off Fukushima, the primary nursery of Pacific cod, are effectively serving as a marine protected area after the tsunami events. A close coincidence between the nursery area of young fish and the protected area strongly altered the age composition of the population and enhanced fish abundance.
Risk factors for nonmelanoma skin cancer in renal transplant recipients: a case–control study from a reference outpatient clinic in Southeast Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Flávia R. , Ogawa Marilia M. , Nascimento Luiz F. C. , Tomimori Jane
Published: January 2017

Background

Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common tumor in humans, and its incidence increases among renal transplant recipients (RTRs). The aims of this study were to characterize the RTRs with NMSC, to identify risk factors, and to calculate the probability of this tumor in this population.

Methods

This was a hospital‐based case–control study. Epidemiological and clinical variables were evaluated. Hierarchical logistic regression was used, and a mathematical model was built.

Results

In total, 245 subjects were included. Possible associations were identified using a univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis identified risk factors with respective odds ratios and confidence intervals (95% CI): males 2.5 (1.3–4.7), age over 50 years 5.4 (2.3–12.9), Fitzpatrick's skin phototypes I–III 3.7 (1.6–8.7), occupational sun exposure 4.1 (2.1–8.1), timetable of recreational sun exposure all day 3.0 (1.4–6.1), and duration of transplantation (80 months or more) 3.3 (1.6–6.5). The Hosmer‐Lemeshow test and the receiver operating characteristics curve showed a strong fit and accuracy, respectively. The probability of an NMSC ranged from less than 1 to 92.5%.

Conclusions

This study characterized the RTRs with NMSC and identified risk factors. The multivariate analysis by hierarchical logistic regression proved to be a useful tool and allowed for the determination of the probability of NMSC in this population.
Familial gastrointestinal stromal tumors, lentigines, and café‐au‐lait macules associated with germline c‐kit mutation treated with imatinib
Authors: Gupta Divya , Chandrashekar Laxmisha , Larizza Lidia , Colombo Elisa A. , Fontana Laura , Gervasini Cristina , Thappa Devinder M. , Rajappa Medha , Rajendiran Kalai Selvi , Sreenath Gubbi Shamanna , Kate Vikram
Published: January 2017

Background

Familial lentiginosis syndromes are characterized by a wide array of manifestations resulting from activation of molecular pathways which control growth, proliferation, and differentiation of a broad range of tissues. Familial gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are often accompanied by additional features like hyperpigmentation, mastocytosis, and dysphagia. They have been described with mutations in c‐kit (most commonly), platelet‐derived growth factor receptor A, neurofibromatosis‐1, and succinate dehydrogenase genes.

Materials and Methods

We report on molecular characterization and tumor histopathology of two siblings in whom lentigines and café‐au‐lait macules were present along with multifocal GIST. Immuhistochemical analysis of CD34 and CD117 was performed on GIST biopsy samples from both siblings, while c‐kit mutational analysis was done by PCR and direct sequencing on DNA from peripheral blood leukocytes of all family members and from paraffin‐embedded gastric biopsy specimens of affected siblings.

Results

Histopathology revealed positive expression of CD117 and CD34. Mutational analysis showed the germline c.1676T>C mutation in c‐kit exon 11, (p.(Val559Ala)), in the peripheral blood of both siblings and a second exon 11 mutation, c.1669T>A (p.(Trp557Arg)) in the tumor biopsy of one of them. Initiation of imatinib treatment resulted in striking resolution of their hyperpigmentation and a stable gastrointestinal disease in one of them.

Conclusions

A c‐kit mutational test in familial GISTs is indicated before initiation of imatinib therapy, as it can help predict tumor response to treatment.
Assessment of the effectiveness of topical propranolol 4% gel for infantile hemangiomas
Authors: Mashiah Jacob , Kutz Ana , Rabia Smail Hadj , Ilan Efrat Bar , Goldberg Ilan , Sprecher Eli , Harel Avikam
Published: January 2017

Background

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common vascular tumors in children. Because of their benign character and natural involution, the vast majority of IHs do not require any treatment. In the past few years, topical beta blockers have been reported to be an effective treatment of superficial IHs.

Objective

We sought to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety profile of topical propranolol 4% gel for the treatment of IHs.

Methods

A retrospective study of all cases of IHs treated with topical propranolol 4% gel between 2013 and 2015 was performed. All patients were evaluated in a pediatric dermatology unit of a tertiary medical center. Epidemiologic, clinical, and treatment data, including effectiveness score and safety, were reviewed.

Results

The study included 63 patients with a total of 75 IHs. Of the total number of IHs, 43 (57.3%) showed a good response to treatment, 19 (25.3%) a partial response, and 13 (17.33%) poor or no response, thus 62 (82.6%) had good or partial response to treatment. Age at treatment initiation, treatment time, thickness of the superficial component, and size of the lesions were shown to predict response to therapy. Out of the entire examined group, only two patients reported minor local side effects manifested by irritation, redness, and scaling of the treated area. No systemic adverse effects were reported. Limitations: This is an uncontrolled retrospective study.

Conclusion

Propranolol 4% gel is a safe and efficient topical therapy for IH.
Use of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy for myositis: an audit in South Australian patients
Authors: Foreman Caroline , Russo Paul , Davies Noelene , Hissaria Pravin , Proudman Susanna , Hughes Tiffany , Limaye Vidya
Published: January 2017

In South Australia, between 2000 and 2014, 57 patients with idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIM) were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). We reviewed disease characteristics to determine predictors of response to therapy and IVIg dosing and duration to identify opportunities to rationalise IVIg use. Patients with dermatomyositis/polymyositis had a response rate of 77% and were more likely than inclusion body myositis to respond to therapy. Consideration should be given to the use of the lowest possible dose of IVIg and to the undertaking of trials of cessation of IVIg in patients with stable IIM.
Movements of four native Hawaiian birds across a naturally fragmented landscape
Authors: Knowlton Jessie L. , Flaspohler David J. , Paxton Eben H. , Fukami Tadashi , Giardina Christian P. , Gruner Daniel S. , Rankin Erin E. Wilson
Published: January 2017

Animals often increase their fitness by moving across space in response to temporal variation in habitat quality and resource availability, and as a result of intra and inter‐specific interactions. The long‐term persistence of populations and even whole species depends on the collective patterns of individual movements, yet animal movements have been poorly studied at the landscape level. We quantified movement behavior within four native species of Hawaiian forest birds in a complex lava‐fragmented landscape: Hawai‛i ‘amakihi Chlorodrepanis virens, ‘oma‘o Myadestes obscurus, ‘apapane Himatione sanguinea, and ‘i‘iwi Drepanis coccinea. We evaluated the relative importance of six potential intrinsic and extrinsic drivers of movement behavior and patch fidelity: 1) forest fragment size, 2) the presence or absence of invasive rats (Rattus sp.), 3) season, 4) species, 5) age, and 6) sex. The study was conducted across a landscape of 34 forest fragments varying in size from 0.07 to 12.37 ha, of which 16 had rats removed using a treatment‐control design. We found the largest movements in the nectivorous ‘apapane and ‘i‘iwi, intermediate levels in the generalist Hawai‛i ‘amakihi, and shortest average movement for the ‘oma‘o, a frugivore. We found evidence for larger patch sizes increasing patch fidelity only in the ‘oma‘o, and an effect of rat‐removal increasing patch fidelity of Hawai‛i ‘amakihi only after two years of rat‐removal. Greater movement during the non‐breeding season was observed in all species, and season was an important factor in explaining higher patch fidelity in the breeding season for ‘apapane and ‘i‘iwi. Sex was important in explaining patch fidelity in ‘oma‘o only, with males showing higher patch fidelity. Our results provide new insights into how these native Hawaiian species will respond to a changing environment, including habitat fragmentation and changing distribution of threats from climate change.
Short dental implants (6 mm) versus long dental implants (11–15 mm) in combination with sinus floor elevation procedures: 3‐year results from a multicentre, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Pohl Veronika , Thoma Daniel S. , Sporniak‐Tutak Katarzyna , Garcia‐Garcia Abel , Taylor Thomas D. , Haas Robert , Hämmerle Christoph H. F.
Published: January 2017

Aim

To test whether the use of short dental implants (6 mm) results in an implant survival rate similar to that with longer implants (11–15 mm) in combination with sinus grafting.

Methods

This multicentre study enrolled 101 patients with partial edentulism in the posterior maxilla and a remaining bone height of 5–7 mm. Included patients were randomly assigned to receive short implants (6 mm; GS/group short) or long implants (11–15 mm) simultaneously with sinus grafting (GG/group graft). Six months after implant placement (IP), implants were loaded with single crowns (PR) and patients were re‐examined yearly thereafter. Assessed outcomes included: implant survival, marginal bone level changes (MBL), probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BoP) and plaque accumulation (PCR) during 3 years of loading as well as recording of any adverse effects. In addition to descriptive statistics, statistical analysis has been performed for the two treatment modalities using a non‐parametric approach.

Results

In 101 patients, 137 implants were placed. At the 3‐year follow‐up (FU‐3), 94 patients with 129 implants were re‐examined. The implant survival rate was 100% in both groups. MBL at FU‐3 was 0.45 mm (GG) and 0.44 mm (GS) (p > 0.05). A statistically significant loss of MBL was observed in both GG (−0.43 ± 0.58 mm) and GS (−0.44 ± 0.56 mm) from IP to FU‐3, and from PR to FU‐3 in GG (−0.25 ± 0.58 mm) but not in GS (−0.1 ± 0.54 mm). PCR and BoP at FU‐3 did not show any difference between the groups but for PPD (p = 0.035).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, implants with a length of 6 mm as well as longer implants in combination with a lateral sinus lift may be considered as a treatment option provided a residual ridge height of 5–7 mm in the atrophied posterior maxilla is present.
Assessment of stream flood susceptibility: a cross‐analysis between model results and flood losses
Authors: Santos P.P. , Reis E.
Published: January 2017

This study describes a model, which classifies the susceptibility of streams to flooding. Three flood predisposing factors are considered: average slope, accumulated flow, and average relative permeability. Multi‐criteria analysis provided results for 11 combinations of weights. Results were compared with the historical record of flood losses reported in newspapers between 1935 and 2010. Lithology appears to function as a relevant factor in differentiating the major sub‐basins. Eighty‐six percent of flood loss occurrences took place in streams identified by the model. Analysing stream flood susceptibility and flood loss data allow the identification of locations where disaster causes should be searched, apart from those explained by the predisposing factors. The assessment of streams’ flood susceptibility through this methodology is useful in (i) data‐rich contexts where additional factors may be considered and the availability of historical records helps to validate the model and (ii) data‐poor contexts where data to run the model is easily found.
Transarterial chemoembolization prior to liver transplantation for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Si Tengfei , Chen Yongjun , Ma Di , Gong Xiaoyong , Guan Ruoyu , Shen Boyong , Peng Chenghong
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

A debate exists over whether using preoperative transarterial chemoembolization for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma before liver transplantation. Numerous studies have been investigating on this, but there is still no unanimous conclusion about the effect of preoperative transarterial chemoembolization. We conducted the meta‐analysis of all available studies to systematically evaluate the influence of preoperative transarterial chemoembolization on liver transplant.

Methods

A systematic search was performed by two authors (Si TF. and Guan RY.) through PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Science Citation Index Expanded, combined with Manual Retrieval and Cited Reference Search. The searching cut‐off date was 2016/07/31, and all the data obtained were statistically analyzed using Review Manager version 5.1 software (Copenhagen, The Nordic Cochrane Center, The Cochrane Collaboration, 2011) recommended by Cochrane Collaboration.

Results

The study showed that there was no difference between the experimental group and the control group on perioperative mortality (RR = 1.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.49–2.48], P = 0.82) or biliary complications (RR = 0.96, 95%CI = [0.66–1.39], P = 0.83). Preoperative transarterial chemoembolization had no obvious effect on improving overall survival (HR = 1.05, 95%CI = [0.65–1.72], P = 0. 83) but would result in a higher rate of vascular complications (RR = 2.01, 95%CI = [1.23–3.27], P = 0.005) and a reduction of disease free survival (HR = 1.66, 95%CI = [1.02–2.70], P = 0.04). Subgroup analysis also revealed that patients from transarterial chemoembolization group in Asia had a much lower overall survival rate (HR = 2.65, 95%CI = [1.49–4.71], P = 0.0009) compared with the control group.

Conclusions

Considering the possible adverse impacts on liver transplantation and the variation in sensitivity to transarterial chemoembolization, clinicians should be more cautious when considering transarterial chemoembolization as the bridging therapy for patients in the waiting list.
Rome foundation Asian working team report: Real world treatment experience of Asian patients with functional bowel disorders
Authors: Xiong Lishou , Gong Xiaorong , Siah Kewin Tien‐Ho , Pratap Nitesh , Ghoshal Uday Chand , Abdullah Murdani , Syam Ari Fahrial , Bak Young‐Tae , Choi Myung‐gyu , Lu Ching‐Liang , Gonlachanvit Sutep , Chua Andrew Seng Boon , Chong Kuck‐Meng , Ricaforte‐Campos Jane D , Shi Quan , Hou Xiaohua , Whitehead William E , Gwee Kok‐Ann , Chen Minhu
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

Information on real world treatment experiences of patients with functional bowel disorders is lacking from Asia. This study aimed to describe the medication exposure and treatment satisfaction of patients presenting to gastroenterology clinics across a sampling of Asian cities.

Methods

From March 2011 to October 2013, adult patients presenting to hospital‐based gastroenterology outpatient clinics in 11 cities across Asia, who fulfilled screening criteria for any functional gastrointestinal disorder, were asked to complete a validated culturally adapted translation of the Rome III diagnostic questionnaire, a checklist of medications received in the preceding 3 months and questions on treatment satisfaction.

Results

A total of 1376 patients (female 755, male 621, 41.36 ± 13.25 years) comprising irritable bowel (621, 45.1%), unspecified functional bowel disorder (372, 27.8%), functional constipation (202, 14.7%), functional bloating (144, 10.5%), and functional diarrhea (56, 4.1%) completed the study. Of 1105 patients with a previous consultation, 509 (46.1%) were dissatisfied with their treatment, with ineffective treatment being the commonest reason. Satisfaction with previous consultation was lowest by diagnosis for functional constipation (29.2%), and the most bothersome symptom was straining (37.5%). Of 1046 patients who had taken medications for their gastrointestinal symptoms in the last 3 months, 793 (75.8%) had received two or more drugs. For irritable bowel syndrome patients, treatment with proton pump inhibitors and antispasmodics was recorded in 57% and 31%, with overlapping epigastric pain and heartburn predicting proton pump inhibitors use.

Conclusions

More attention should be given to treatment gaps with regards to possible under‐treatment with antispasmodics in irritable bowel syndrome and to critically evaluating the efficacy of constipation management.
Treatment strategy for urinary frequency in women
Authors: Hsieh Ching‐Hung , Su Tsung‐Hsien
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the differential diagnosis of the underlying etiologies of urinary frequency and the treatment strategies for urinary frequency in women. Urinary frequency is a symptom, a sign, and a condition of uncertainty and of multifactorial cause. Common causes of urinary frequency include psychosocial, medical, sexual, urological, gynecologic, endocrine, and pharmacological in origin. Hence, treatment of symptoms and possible cures need a high‐level plan or strategy to overcome the multifactorial etiology. Proper investigation of the chief complaint, history and physical examinations, is needed to evaluate urinary frequency. Pregnancy test, wet smear, urinalysis, midstream urine culture, frequency–volume charts, cystourethroscopy, urodynamics, and genitourinary imaging are the basic routine of office investigations. These tools promote the accuracy of the differential diagnosis of the underlying cause of urinary frequency. It is then often helpful to adopt an algorithmic approach to the management of this complaint. Treatment of urinary frequency might be empirical, and it remains a clinical challenge to gynecologists. To cure the disease, it is important to listen to the patient and consider the condition in all its aspects and use proven techniques.
Effectiveness of IMPACT:Ability to Improve Safety and Self‐Advocacy Skills in Students With Disabilities—Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Dryden Eileen M. , Desmarais Jeffrey , Arsenault Lisa
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Research shows that individuals with disabilities are more likely to experience abuse than their peers without disabilities. Yet, few evidenced‐based abuse prevention interventions exist. This study examines whether positive outcomes identified previously in an evaluation of IMPACT:Ability were maintained 1 year later.

METHODS

A survey measuring safety and self‐advocacy knowledge, confidence, and behaviors among special education high‐school students was administered 12 months post‐training. Paired samples t‐tests were used to compare baseline to follow up and postsurvey to follow up and repeated measures analyses were conducted to test the effect of time across the 3 time points (baseline, post, and 1‐year follow up) (N = 47).

RESULTS

Follow‐up study participants had a range of disabilities, just over half were boys, and most were either black or Latino/Hispanic. Difference between scores at baseline and follow‐up for all the measures of interest represented gains from baseline. Statistically significant post‐training improvements in participants' safety and self‐advocacy knowledge and confidence were maintained 1‐year later.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide additional support for the case that IMPACT:Ability is a promising safety and self‐advocacy training program for diverse groups of students with disabilities.
Development of a Real‐time Fluorescence Loop‐mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay for Detection of Burkholderia gladioli pv. alliicola
Authors: Kuang Weigang , Luo Laixin , Gao Wenna , Lei Yahong , lv Qingyang , Li Jianqiang
Published: January 2017

Burkholderia gladioli pv. alliicola is a causal agent of rot on a wide range of hosts including onion and tulip. It is one of quarantine phytopathogenic bacteria in China. To reduce the economic losses associated with this pathogen, simple and rapid detection methods are needed. In this study, an efficient loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay with a real‐time fluorometer was developed. The analysis of 16S‐23S rRNA intergenic transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences showed considerable variability between different Burkholderia species and B. gradioli pathovars. A set of LAMP primers was designed based on the ITS region. The sensitivity and specificity of the developed assay were evaluated at the optimal temperature of 65°C. The primers were specific for B. gladioli pv. alliicola and did not react to strains of others species and other pathovars in the species B. gladioli. The sensitivity of the real‐time LAMP assay was 1 fg DNA which was 100 times higher than that of conventional PCR. The method was verified by testing natural samples and inoculated onion seeds, and it showed effectiveness. The real‐time LAMP assay established in this study is an effective method for detection of B. gladioli pv. alliicola.
Effect of sweet potato vines on performance parameters and some carcass characteristics of rabbits
Authors: Klinger A. C. K. , da Silva L. P. , de Toledo G. S. P. , Galarreta B. , Goulart F.
Published: January 2017

Conventional feedstuffs in Brazil are expensive, which has led to the search for less conventional cheaper and locally available feedstuffs. Thus, this study was carried out to determine the dietary effect of dry sweet potato vines (SPV) on the performance and some carcass characteristics of rabbits. A total of twenty‐seven weaned White New Zealand rabbits (14 male and 13 female) 35 days old with an average initial weight of 755 g were allocated into three treatments. Nine rabbits were assigned to each treatment in a completely randomized design. Three diets were formulated to similar protein and energy levels: 0SPV – diet without inclusion of dry sweet potato vines; 10SPV – diet with 10% alfalfa hay replaced by dry sweet potato vines; and 15SPV – diet with 15% of alfalfa hay replaced by dry sweet potato vines. The experiment lasted for 49 days during which data for feed intake and body weight were recorded. The daily feed intake ranged from 73.17 to 78.02 g; daily weight gain from 22.32 to 23.17 g; feed conversion ratio (FCR) from 3.16 to 3.49 and final live weight ranged from 1839.44 to 1880.55 g. None of the evaluated performance parameters as well as carcass weight, heart weight and percentages of fat and protein in meat were significantly affected by any of the tested dietary treatments. However, the liver weight was statistically lower in animals fed the diets containing 10% of SPV, mainly due to lower glucose content. Glycogen within the tissue, did not differ significantly among treatments. It was therefore concluded that up to 15% of SPV can successfully be included in the diet of rabbits as a cheaper replacement for alfalfa hay without adversely affecting performance.
Stage‐dependent puma predation on dangerous prey
Authors: Elbroch L. M. , Feltner J. , Quigley H. B.
Published: January 2017

Predators likely assess their risk of injury with regards to hunting different prey types, while deciding whether to initiate an attack or to avoid dangerous prey. Risk‐taking is age‐, stage‐ and state‐dependent, and foraging theory predicts that juvenile predators, individuals of lower social rank, and less‐experienced predators that are hungry are among those most likely to engage dangerous prey. In carnivores that optimally hunt prey larger than themselves, however, juveniles may also select for smaller, suboptimal prey as they refine their hunting skills. Thus, in the case of predators that exhibit age‐specific prey selection, there may be multiple factors influencing decision‐making about prey selection. We compared puma (Puma concolor) predation on dangerous adult ungulates and safer juvenile ungulates, as well as two similar‐sized rodent species: the more dangerous North American porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum) and the more vulnerable American beaver (Castor canadensis). We found that dispersing, subadult pumas with limited hunting experience and without territories avoided dangerous but optimally sized adult ungulates, and instead hunted dangerous, suboptimal porcupines more than resident, territorial adults. In contrast, there was no difference in puma predation on beavers between dispersers and residents. Small prey (e.g. not ungulates) formed a large portion of dispersing puma diets of both sexes, and this stage‐dependent foraging pattern might be important in describing the ecology of the species, as well as in modeling potential dispersal habitat that could see puma expansion east in North America across hostile matrices where their primary prey has been reduced through anthropogenic effects.
Novel targets for hepatitis B virus therapy
Authors: Testoni Barbara , Durantel David , Zoulim Fabien
Published: January 2017

Treatment with either pegylated interferon‐alpha (pegIFN‐α) or last generation nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) successfully leads to serum viral load suppression in most chronically infected hepatitis B (CHB) patients, but HBsAg loss is only achieved in 10% of the cases after a 5‐year follow‐up. Thus, therapy must be administered long‐term and it will not completely eliminate infection because of the persistent hepatitis B virus (HBV) minichromosome in infected cells, and cannot completely abolish the risk of developing severe sequelae such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Recent progress in the development of in vitro and in vivo models of HBV infection have helped renew interest in the investigation of the viral life cycle, as well as specific virus–host cell interactions to identify new targets for the development of new antiviral drugs. This includes either direct inhibition of viral replication by targeting fundamental steps such as entry, cccDNA formation/stability, viral transcripts, capsid assembly and secretion or the manipulation of the host immune system for better defence against infection. Multiple strategies are currently under investigation, including boosting endogenous innate responses and/or restoring adaptive immunity via engineering of HBV‐specific T cells or via the use of inhibitors of negative regulators, as well as therapeutic vaccines. It is increasingly clear that multiple therapeutic strategies must be combined to reach a cure of HBV and that the definition of clinical, virological and immunological correlates for the management of treatment are urgently needed.
Radiologic findings of Fusarium pneumonia in neutropenic patients
Authors: Sassi Claudia , Stanzani Marta , Lewis Russell E. , Vianelli Nicola , Tarsi Andrea , Poerio Antonio , Cavo Michele , Battista Giuseppe
Published: January 2017

In neutropenic patients, lungs are involved in 50%–80% of cases of fusariosis, but imaging of pulmonary fusariosis has been previously described as indistinguishable from other invasive mould diseases. Our attempt was to identify a radiological pattern that may distinguish pulmonary fusariosis from other mould diseases. We examined the CT findings of nine neutropenic haematology patients with invasive fusariosis. As control group for comparison, we examined 14 invasive mould diseases (11 aspergillosis, 3 mucormycosis) in haematology patients with similar underlying disease and timing of CT imaging. Chest‐CT in invasive fusariosis showed small airways (7/9) or peribronchial (5/9) infiltrates, less frequently macronodular consolidations (4/9) with hypodense sign, but without halo sign or occluded‐vessel sign. The control group presented macronodular consolidations with occluded‐vessel sign in all of the cases; the halo and the hypodense signs were observed, respectively, in 100% and 82% of aspergillosis, and in 67% and 100% of mucormycosis. Sinusitis was documented by CT in 7/7 fusariosis, 2/2 mucormycosis and 5/7 aspergillosis; maxillary and ethmoid sinuses were involved in 7/7 fusariosis, in most of the cases with hyperdense opacification (rarely observed in the controls). We concluded that no radiological findings can discriminate between different mould infections, but invasive fusariosis should be suspected if chest‐CT demonstrates pulmonary infiltrates with the hypodense sign, but without the halo or the occluded‐vessel signs. Suspicion is greater in the presence of hyperdense maxillary and ethmoid sinusitis.
The Trojan horse coronatine: the COI1–JAZ2–MYC2,3,4–ANAC019,055,072 module in stomata dynamics upon bacterial infection
Authors: Wasternack Claus
Published: January 2017

This article is a Commentary on Gimenez‐Ibanez et al., 213: 1378–1392.
The phenomenology of intuition
Authors: Koksvik Ole
Published: January 2017

When a person has an intuition, it seems to her that things are certain ways; to many it seems that torturing the innocent for fun is wrong, for example. When a person has an intuition, there is also something particular it is like to be her: intuitions have a characteristic phenomenal character. This article asks how thephenomenal characterof intuition is related to two core core questions in the philosophy of intuition, namely:Is intuition a source of justification and knowledge?andWhat are intuitions?.
UVA Light‐mediated Ascorbate Oxidation in Human Lenses
Authors: Rakete Stefan , Nagaraj Ram H.
Published: January 2017

Whether ascorbate oxidation is promoted by UVA light in human lenses and whether this process is influenced by age and GSH levels are not known. In this study, we used paired lenses from human donors. One lens of each pair was exposed to UVA light, whereas the other lens was kept in the dark for the same period of time as the control. Using LC‐MS/MS analyses, we found that older lenses (41–73 years) were more susceptible to UVA‐induced ascorbate oxidation than younger lenses (18–40 years). Approximately 36% of the ascorbate (relative to control) was oxidized in older lenses compared to ~16% in younger lenses. Furthermore, lenses with higher levels of GSH were less susceptible to UVA‐induced ascorbate oxidation compared to those with lower levels, and this effect was not dependent on age. The oxidation of ascorbate led to elevated levels of reactive α‐dicarbonyl compounds. In summary, our study showed that UVA light exposure leads to ascorbate oxidation in human lenses and that such oxidation is more pronounced in aged lenses and is inversely related to GSH levels. Our findings suggest that UVA light exposure could lead to protein aggregation through ascorbate oxidation in human lenses.
A proposed framework for participatory forest restoration in semiarid areas of North Africa
Authors: Derak Mchich , Cortina Jordi , Taiqui Lahcen , Aledo Antonio
Published: January 2017

Ecological restoration is a suitable tool to revert land degradation in semiarid areas. Social participation is increasingly considered as a guarantee for the long‐term success and sustainability of restoration projects. In rural areas of North African countries, experiences of participatory restoration are still not frequent, and poverty and illiteracy with top‐down approaches boost land‐use conflicts and raise skepticism toward restoration programs. We developed a framework for forest restoration based on knowledge share, trust, and active stakeholder participation in all restoration steps. The framework was tested through a demonstrative project aimed at restoring Tetraclinis articulata forests in a semiarid area of North Morocco, in which scientists, managers, and local stakeholders were involved in all steps of the restoration process: identification of restoration priorities, assessment of land‐use options, definition of the restoration procedure, participatory plantation, evaluation, surveillance, and monitoring. In a 1 ha plot, 250 plants were planted by 90 participants in a spirit of knowledge exchange, mutual aid, environmental education, and social solidarity. After 2 years, the plot remains intact, free of any act of vandalism and grazing, and shows signals of improved ecosystem functioning. A wider application of the proposed framework in current restoration strategies will enhance our understanding of the factors behind social acceptance and support for restoration projects.
Target‐based Anemia Management with Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents (Risks and Benefits Relearned) and Iron (Still More to Learn)
Authors: Stivelman John C.
Published: January 2017

The FDA first licensed erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESA) for use in patients with ESRD in 1989. Hemoglobin targets for treatment with ESAs were established at the outset on the basis of descriptive pre‐ESA literature and Phase I–III data in patients with ESRD. Postrelease literature in ESA‐treated patients accumulating over time initially supported improvement in indices of both cardiovascular and other organ function as well as quality of life with therapy. Recommended treatment targets for hemoglobin would evolve further in the United States from four iterations of evidence‐ and opinion‐based practice guidelines appearing between 1997 and 2007. Several randomized, controlled trials published from 1998 to 2009 examined normalization and near‐normalization of hemoglobin in patients with both ESRD and CKD; they raised fundamental questions as to the safety of robust correction of anemia. These findings, taken together with subsequent actions of the FDA in ESA labeling and CMS's quality expectations for hemoglobin in payment for dialysis treatments, would result in a comprehensive reassessment of the hemoglobin targets in ESA therapy. A marked decrease in both national ESA utilization and hemoglobin attainment has ensued as a result. This discussion addresses the history of the striking changes in enthusiasm for hemoglobin‐targeted anemia therapy from 1989 to the present, and similarly examines the evolution of ferritin‐targeted iron administration, which has followed different—and markedly slower—historical development.
The Global Refugee Crisis: Empirical Evidence and Policy Implications for Improving Public Attitudes and Facilitating Refugee Resettlement
Authors: Esses Victoria M. , Hamilton Leah K. , Gaucher Danielle
Published: January 2017

The number of refugees across the globe is at an alarming high and is expected to continue to rise for the foreseeable future. As a result, finding durable solutions for refugees has become a major challenge worldwide. The literature reviewed and policy implications discussed in this article are based on the premise that one of the major solutions to the refugee crisis must be refugee resettlement in new host countries. For such a solution to succeed, however, requires relatively favorable attitudes by members of host societies, protection of the well‐being of refugees, and effective integration of refugees into new host countries. In this context, we begin by reviewing the literature on determinants of public attitudes toward refugees, the acculturation of refugees in host societies, and factors affecting refugee mental health, all of which are directly relevant to the success of the resettlement process. We then turn our attention to the policy implications of these literatures, and discuss strategies for improving public attitudes toward refugees and refugee resettlement in host countries; for improving the resettlement process to reduce mental health challenges; and for supporting the long‐term acculturation and integration of refugees in their new homes.
Seeing the Destination AND the Path: Using Identity‐Based Motivation to Understand and Reduce Racial Disparities in Academic Achievement
Authors: Oyserman Daphna , Lewis Neil A.
Published: January 2017

African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans aspire to do well in school but often fall short of this goal. We use identity‐based motivation theory as an organizing framework to understand how macrolevel social stratification factors including minority–ethnic group membership and low socioeconomic position (e.g., parental education, income) and the stigma they carry, matter. Macrolevel social stratification differentially exposes students to contexts in which choice and control are limited and stigma is evoked, shaping identity‐based motivation in three ways. Stratification influences which behaviors likely feel congruent with important identities, undermines belief that one's actions and effort matter, and skews chronic interpretation of one's experienced difficulties with schoolwork from interpreting experienced difficulty as implying importance (e.g., “it's for me”) toward implying “impossibility.” Because minority students have high aspirations, policies should invest in destigmatizing, scalable, universal, identity‐based motivation‐bolstering institutions and interventions.