bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trophic ecology and food consumption of fishes in a hypersaline tropical lagoon
Authors: Almeida‐Silva P. H. , Tubino R. A. , Zambrano L. C. , Hunder D. A. , Garritano S. R. , Monteiro‐Neto C.
Published: June 2015

This study evaluated the trophic ecology (diet composition, trophic strategy, similarities and overlap between species, feeding period and food consumption) of six benthivorous fish species in Araruama Lagoon, the largest hypersaline tropical lagoon on the east coast of South America, with an area of 210 km2 and an average salinity of 52. The burrfish Chilomycterus spinosus fed on Anomalocardia flexuosa shell deposits, ingesting associated fauna. The caitipa mojarra Diapterus rhombeus differed from all other species, having not only the highest proportions of algae and Nematoda, but also feeding on polychaete tentacles. The two mojarras Eucinostomus spp. showed similar trophic strategies, feeding mostly on Polychaeta. The corocoro grunt Orthopristis ruber also fed mainly on Polychaeta, but differed from Eucinostomus spp. in secondary items. The whitemouth croacker Micropogonias furnieri fed mainly on small Crustacea at night, showing a high number of secondary prey items with low frequencies and high prey‐specific abundance. The daily food consumption (g food g−1 fish mass) for Eucinostomus argenteus was 0·012 and was 0·031 and 0·027 for M. furnieri in two different sampling events. The diet similarities between Araruama Lagoon and other brackish and marine environments indicate that hypersalinity is not a predominant factor shaping the trophic ecology of fishes in this lagoon. The stability of hypersaline conditions, without a pronounced gradient, may explain the presence of several euryhaline fishes and invertebrates well adapted to this condition, resulting in a complex food web.
Local scale, coastal currents influence recruitment to freshwater populations in the European eel Anguilla anguilla: a case study from the Isle of Man
Authors: Barry J. , Mcharg K. , Dodd J. A. , Adams C. E.
Published: June 2015

This study examines juvenile Anguilla anguilla (<30 cm) abundance in five study catchments on the Isle of Man. Preliminary results suggest that juvenile abundance is negatively correlated with increasing coastal current speed at river mouth entry (P < 0·05). These findings indicate that at least under some circumstances, tidally driven coastal currents may influence recruitment to freshwater habitats; therefore, it is presumed that high coastal current speed at the entry to river mouths may reduce the likelihood of freshwater entry.
The Drying Kinetics and Polyphenol Degradation of Cocoa Beans
Authors: Teh Queena Tzyy Mei , Tan Grace Li Yin , Loo Siew Mei , Azhar Fitriyah Zainol , Menon Abhay Santhanam , Hii Ching Lik
Published: June 2015

This study investigated the kinetics of drying and polyphenol degradation during hot air and sun drying of cocoa beans. Hot air drying was carried out using a constant humidity‐controlled (50% relative humidity) oven at temperature range of 60–80C, and sun drying was carried out by exposing the beans under direct sunlight. Several semi‐theoretical models were used to model the kinetics of moisture diffusion and it was found that the Page and Logarithmic models were able to provide good prediction. A first‐order reaction kinetics was used to predict the polyphenol degradation process with rate constants ranging from 0.011/h to 0.052/h. Activation energy for polyphenol degradation was determined at 8.97 kJ/mol using the Arrhenius equation. Effective diffusivity during drying was found within the order of magnitude (10−12–10−10 m2/s) reported in most drying literatures.

Practical Applications

The understanding of moisture diffusion is important in dryer design especially in the determination of effective diffusivities during drying. Polyphenols are important antioxidants that are beneficial to human health. By investigating the polyphenol degradation kinetics, this helps to link the reactions with moisture diffusion kinetics.
Effects of Mechanical and Enzymatic Pretreatments on Extraction of Polyphenols from Blackberry Fruits
Authors: Soto Marvin , Acosta Oscar , Vaillant Fabrice , Pérez Ana
Published: June 2015

This study evaluated the effects of mechanical and enzymatic pretreatments on the extraction of anthocyanins and ellagitannins from blackberries. Continuous pressing yielded significantly higher turbidity values and content of anthocyanins and ellagitannins (P < 0.05) compared with discontinuous pressing. The use of enzymatic pretreatment also significantly increased the extraction of polyphenolic compounds (P < 0.05), in particular that of total ellagitannins, on average from 437 to 982 mg ellagic acid equivalents/100 g (dry basis) when using discontinuous pressing. When microfiltration was used, the content of ellagitannins and anthocyanins was found to be similar in both feed and permeate when discontinuous press was used to extract the juice, but a significant decrease of 34% (dry basis) was found in the concentration of ellagitannins when continuous pressing was used (P < 0.05). These results should be useful for future efforts to increase the extraction of polyphenolic compounds from fruits and vegetables.

Practical Applications

Blackberries have high contents of potentially bioactive polyphenolic compounds, mainly anthocyanins and ellagitannins. Therefore, processes must be optimized not only to obtain large amounts of juice from this fruit, but also to efficiently extract the compounds of interest. The methodology and results presented in this study should be beneficial for processors that aim to increase the recovery of potentially bioactive polyphenolic compounds from fruit using mechanical and enzymatic pretreatments. Furthermore, this study evaluated the potential of cross‐flow microfiltration as a viable operation for cold stabilization of blackberry juice, while obtaining acceptable permeate flux and membrane retention of the compounds of interest. It is envisioned that this technology could be used in the same manner to ensure the microbiological stability of polyphenolic‐enriched fruit juices and extracts.
Extraction of Minor Compounds (Chlorophylls and Carotenoids) from Yarrow–Rose Hip Mixtures by Traditional versus Green Technique
Authors: Pavlić Branimir , Ðurković Ana Vasić , Vladić Jelena , Gavarić Aleksandra , Zeković Zoran , Tepić Aleksandra , Vidović Senka
Published: June 2015

Nowadays, various branches from food industry generate large amount of by‐products that are often underutilized, which could have negative environmental impact and increase the price of the raw material as it is not completely utilized in the production. Mixtures of two interesting plants (yarrow and rose hip) with different ratios, obtained as by‐products from filter‐tea factory, have been extracted with organic solvents and with environmentally friendly technology, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). In the obtained extracts, quantitative content of minor plant pigments (chlorophylls and carotenoids) was determined and technologies were compared. Moreover, the effect of SFE parameters on yields of chlorophylls and carotenoids was determined. The results showed that SFE could be used as a good alternative for extraction of plant pigments from Achillea millefolium L. and Rosa canina L. mixtures. Besides plant pigments, the obtained extracts were rich in other nonpolar compounds from plant mixtures. Utilization of herbal waste provided value‐added products, rich in various health benefit compounds.

Practical Applications

Currently, there is growing interest for developing economically feasible and environmentally friendly processes for extraction of bioactive compounds from plant material. Moreover, sustainable and relatively cheap raw material should be utilized in the production. Therefore, waste and by‐products from the food industry, e.g., plant material from filter‐tea factory with small mean particle size, could be used. Traditional technologies used for extraction of chlorophylls and carotenoids are no longer environmentally acceptable and alternative green technologies, such as supercritical fluid extraction, should be considered. This research provides a comparison of green and traditional processes for plant pigment extraction and studies effects of process parameters (pressure and temperature) on yields of the investigated compounds. It also utilizes by‐products of two medicinal plants (yarrow and rose hip) as raw material for extraction as herbal dust generated in filter‐tea factory could not be used for tea bags filling.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Virulence Factors and Antimicrobial Resistance of Motile Aeromonas spp. from Fish and Ground Beef
Authors: Arslan Seza , Küçüksari Rümeysa
Published: June 2015

Motile Aeromonas spp. were isolated from 49 (44.1%) of 111 meat samples (74 fish and 37 ground beef). In this study, 31 (27.9%) isolates were identified as Aeromonas caviae, nine (8.1%) as A. hydrophila and nine (8.1%) as A. veronii biovar sobria. We detected the phenotypic and genotypic virulence factors. All strains showed lipase activity, 95.9% showed proteinase activity, 95.9% showed DNase activity, 93.9% produced siderophores, 85.7% showed lecithinase activity, 53.1% showed hemolysin activity and 30.6% produced slime. Furthermore, cytotoxic (act, aerA and hlyA) and cytotonic enterotoxin (alt and ast) genes were found in 21 (42.9%) strains. The strains carried at least one enterotoxin gene. Only one strain (A. hydrophila) carried all five genes. The act gene was the most frequently observed gene among all strains (22.4%). In an antimicrobial susceptibility test, 100% of strains were resistant to ampicillin followed by vancomycin (91.8%). Multidrug resistance to at least three or more agents was observed in 66.7% of A. hydrophila, 61.3% of A. caviae and 33.3% of A. veronii biovar sobria strains.

Practical Applications

Aeromonas spp. are ubiquitous aquatic organisms and are commonly isolated from food and water. They have emerged as an important human pathogen because of diarrhea related to foodborne outbreaks. Furthermore, these opportunistic bacteria have been associated with various human infections, such as peritonitis, endocarditis, septicemia and urinary tract infections. These bacteria are also predominantly pathogenic to aquatic animals, especially fish. This study indicates that the presence of motile Aeromonas spp. with virulence potential in meat may be a threat to public health. Thus, the potential health risk due to the consumption of inadequately cooked fish and ground beef harboring motile Aeromonas species should not be underestimated.
Effectiveness of an Adapted Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Intervention in Older and Younger Adults
Authors: Brokaw Sarah M. , Carpenedo Dorota , Campbell Paul , Butcher Marcene K. , Furshong Ginny , Helgerson Steven D. , Harwell Todd S. ,   the Montana Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes Prevention Workgroup
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To compare participation, self‐monitoring behaviors, and weight loss outcomes in older and younger participants in an adapted Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle intervention.

Design

Pre‐ and postevaluation of outcomes in participants enrolled in the Montana Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and DPP lifestyle intervention from 2008 through 2012.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Adults at high risk for CVD and type 2 diabetes mellitus (N = 3,804).

Measurements

Number of core (16 weekly sessions) and postcore (6 monthly sessions) intervention sessions attended, weekly self‐monitoring of fat intake and minutes of physical activity, weight loss outcomes and achievement of the weight loss goal, and improvements in CVD‐related risk factors.

Results

Participants aged 65 and older were significantly more likely to attend more intervention sessions, self‐monitor their fat intake, and achieve the physical activity and weight loss goals than those younger than 65. Older and younger participants experienced significant improvements in CVD‐related risk factors.

Conclusion

Older adults at high risk of CVD and diabetes mellitus participating in an adapted DPP lifestyle intervention had higher participation and self‐monitoring rates than younger participants, were more likely to achieve physical activity and weight loss goals, and achieved similar CVD risk reduction.
Efficacy of a Physician‐Led Multiparametric Telemonitoring System in Very Old Adults with Heart Failure
Authors: Pedone Claudio , Rossi Francesca Flavia , Cecere Annagrazia , Costanzo Luisa , Antonelli Incalzi Raffaele
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of an innovative model integrating telemonitoring of vital parameters and telephone support on 6‐month survival and hospital admissions of elderly adults with heart failure (HF).

Design

Parallel‐arm, randomized trial.

Setting

Geriatric acute care ward and outpatient clinic at Policlinico Campus Biomedico (Rome, Italy).

Participants

Individuals with HF aged 65 and older (mean age 80) randomly assigned to intervention (n = 50) or control (n = 46). Participants had an average ejection fraction of 46%.

Intervention

Telemonitoring system (receives and communicates oxygen saturation, heart rate, and blood pressure readings) and office‐hours telephonic support provided by a geriatrician.

Measurements

Combination of all‐cause death and hospital admissions.

Results

The two groups were similar with the exception of the prevalence of women and of disability (both more common in the control group). Three patients for each group were lost to follow‐up (final analyzed sample size: 90). Incidence of the main outcome was 42% in the control group and 21% in the intervention group (relative risk = 0.51, 95% confidence interval (CI)  = 0.26–0.98). The results were unchanged after taking into account the setting of enrollment, sex, and disability (hazard ratio = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.19–0.94).

Conclusion

Telemonitoring of elderly people with HF is feasible and reduces the risk of death and hospitalization. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate the cost‐efficacy of the service.
Attenuated Age‐Related Increases in Arterial Stiffness in Japanese and American Women
Authors: Tanaka Hirofumi , Miyachi Motohiko , Murakami Haruka , Maeda Seiji , Sugawara Jun
Published: June 2015

Background

The United States and Japan have similar standards of living, healthcare systems, and industrializations but exhibit markedly divergent life expectancies both at birth and at later ages (50 or 65 years old). Arterial stiffness has been widely regarded as a barometer of biological or physiological aging and could provide insight into the inter‐country differences.

Objectives

To determine whether the increases in arterial stiffness across the adult age range are greater in U.S. than Japanese adults.

Design

Cross‐sectional analyses.

Setting

Laboratory‐based study.

Participants

Healthy, nonsmoking Japanese (n = 400) and U.S. (n = 400) adults without cardiovascular and other chronic diseases.

Measurements

Indices of arterial stiffness, including carotid‐femoral (cfPWV) and brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were measured, along with a variety of ancillary measures. The recruitment method, measurement technique, and protocol were standardized and identical between U.S. and Japanese facilities.

Results

cfPWV and baPWV increased progressively with advancing age in all subgroups (stratified according to sex and country). The rates of age‐related increases in arterial stiffness were not different between U.S. and Japanese men, but age‐associated increases in cfPWV were significantly greater in U.S. than Japanese women, widening the intercountry differences at older age ranges.

Conclusion

Japanese women had smaller increases in central arterial stiffness with advancing age than U.S. women.
Behind the Wheel: Predictors of Driving Exposure in Older Drivers
Authors: Coxon Kristy , Chevalier Anna , Lo Serigne , Ivers Rebecca , Brown Julie , Keay Lisa
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To explore and deepen understanding of factors influencing driving exposure for older drivers.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Baseline data on function and driving exposure from 1 week of driving were evaluated.

Participants

A convenience sample of 380 drivers aged 75 and older, residing in northwest Sydney, was recruited. Participants were required to be the primary drivers of their own vehicle.

Measurements

Driver function was evaluated using the DriveSafe and DriveAware clinic‐based assessments to measure visual attention to the driving environment and awareness of driving ability. Demographic information was obtained through interview. An in‐vehicle monitoring device with data logger and GPS receiver, was used to measure driving exposure in 362 of 380 participants' vehicles. Driving exposure outcomes were total distance driven, furthest distance traveled from home, and average trip length. Factors influencing these exposure outcomes were analyzed using generalized linear regression.

Results

Drivers typically drove 100 km in local and surrounding areas during the week. Function was predictive of all driving exposure outcomes. Drivers with lower levels of function drove fewer kilometers and took shorter trips closer to home. Age, health status, and personal circumstance (e.g., rural residence) also influenced exposure, but sex did not.

Conclusion

Using objective measures, this study provides evidence that function, age, health status, and personal circumstance influence driving exposure of older drivers. Understanding how older people use driving to preserve their independence is important for exploring safe driving strategies for older people.
Preliminary Data from the Caring for Older Adults and Caregivers at Home (COACH) Program: A Care Coordination Program for Home‐Based Dementia Care and Caregiver Support in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Authors: D'Souza Maria F. , Davagnino Judith , Hastings S. Nicole , Sloane Richard , Kamholz Barbara , Twersky Jack
Published: June 2015

Caring for Older Adults and Caregivers at Home (COACH) is an innovative care coordination program of the Durham Veteran's Affairs Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina, that provides home‐based dementia care and caregiver support for individuals with dementia and their family caregivers, including attention to behavioral symptoms, functional impairment, and home safety, on a consultation basis. The objectives of this study were to describe the COACH program in its first 2 years of operation, assess alignment of program components with quality measures, report characteristics of program participants, and compare rates of placement outside the home with those of a nontreatment comparison group using a retrospective cohort design. Participants were community‐dwelling individuals with dementia aged 65 and older who received primary care in the medical center's outpatient clinics and their family caregivers, who were enrolled as dyads (n = 133), and a control group of dyads who were referred to the program and met clinical eligibility criteria but did not enroll (n = 29). Measures included alignment with Dementia Management Quality Measures and time to placement outside the home during 12 months of follow‐up after referral to COACH. Results of the evaluation demonstrated that COACH aligns with nine of 10 clinical process measures identified using quality measures and that COACH delivers several other valuable services to enhance care. Mean time to placement outside the home was 29.6 ± 14.3 weeks for both groups (P = .99). The present study demonstrates the successful implementation of a home‐based care coordination intervention for persons with dementia and their family caregivers that is strongly aligned with quality measures.
How Should Disability Be Measured in Older Adults? An Analysis from the Boston Rehabilitative Impairment Study of the Elderly
Authors: Beauchamp Marla K. , Bean Jonathan F. , Ward Rachel E. , Kurlinski Laura A. , Latham Nancy K. , Jette Alan M.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To determine and compare the predictive validity and responsiveness of the Late‐Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) frequency and limitation dimensions in assessing two critical dimensions of disability: frequency of and limitations in performance of major life roles.

Design

Secondary analysis of 2‐year follow‐up data from the Boston Rehabilitative Impairment Study of the Elderly.

Setting

Primary care.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults (≥65) (n = 430) at risk of mobility decline.

Measurements

The LLFDI frequency and limitation dimensions, self‐rated health, hospitalizations, and emergency department (ED) visits over 2 years. Responsiveness measures included effect size (ES) estimates and minimal detectable change (MDC) scores.

Results

The LLFDI frequency dimension predicted low self‐rated health (odds ratio (OR) = 0.51, P < .001), hospitalizations (OR = 0.68, P < .001), and ED visits (OR = 0.73, P = .003) over 2 years, whereas the limitation dimension did not. The absolute ES was 0.63 for the frequency dimension and 0.81 for the limitation dimension. The proportion of subjects with a decline greater than or equal to the MDC was 10.6% for the frequency dimension and 14.2% for the limitation dimension. For participants who improved greater than or equal to the MDC, the proportion was 1.7% for the frequency dimension and 15.3% for the limitation dimension.

Conclusion

Frequency of participation in major life roles was a better predictor of adverse outcomes than perceived limitations, although limitations appeared to be more responsive to meaningful change. These results can be used to guide the selection of the most appropriate metric for measuring disability in geriatric research.
Stability of Diagnoses of Cognitive Impairment, Not Dementia in a Veterans Affairs Primary Care Population
Authors: Holsinger Tracey , Plassman Brenda L. , Stechuchak Karen M. , Burke James R. , Coffman Cynthia J. , Williams John W.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To describe the stability of cognitive impairment, not dementia (CIND) in a longitudinal cohort of primary care veterans. To examine the association between baseline brief cognitive screening tests, demographic and clinical characteristics, and cognitive decline.

Design

Follow‐up cognitive assessment after an average of 2.5 years of a cohort of veterans in primary care whose baseline status was CIND or normal cognition.

Setting

Three Department of Veterans Affairs primary care clinics.

Participants

Subjects with CIND at baseline and a sampling of subjects with baseline normal cognition.

Measurements

Veterans underwent a standard assessment, including neuropsychological tests and informant interview.

Results

Of 293 potentially eligible individuals, 186 enrolled in the follow‐up study. Of the 131 subjects with a baseline diagnosis of CIND, 16 (12%) progressed to dementia, 88 (67%) continued to have a diagnosis of CIND, and 27 (21%) improved to normal cognition. Of the 55 subjects with a baseline diagnosis of normal cognition, one (2%) progressed to dementia, 17 (31%) progressed to CIND, and 37 (67%) remained cognitively normal. In bivariate analyses, poorer performance on baseline cognitive screening tests was associated with cognitive decline, whereas Framingham Stroke Risk Profile (FSRP) and education were not. Similarly, higher scores on cognitive screening tests were associated with return to normal cognition. In multivariable logistic regression models, lower baseline Mini‐Cog and Modified Mini–Mental State scores were associated with cognitive decline, whereas Memory Impairment Screen scores, FSRP, and years of education were not.

Conclusion

A minority of subjects had worsening of cognitive function sufficient to change diagnostic category. Over an average of 2.5 years, subjects diagnosed with CIND at baseline reverted to normal cognition at a higher rate than progressed to dementia. Cognitive screening tests addressing multiple domains of cognitive impairment were predictive of cognitive decline.
Association Between Glycosylated Hemoglobin and Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Older Adults without Diabetes Mellitus in the General Population: The Leiden 85‐Plus Study
Authors: Birkenhäger‐Gillesse Elizabeth G. , den Elzen Wendy P. J. , Achterberg Wilco P. , Mooijaart Simon P. , Gussekloo Jacobijn , de Craen Anton J. M.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To examine the association between glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and incident cardiovascular disease and mortality in 85‐year‐old individuals without diabetes mellitus from the general population.

Design

Population‐based prospective follow‐up study.

Setting

General population.

Participants

Individuals without known diabetes mellitus (N = 445, n = 291 female).

Measurements

HbA1c levels were categorized into three groups (<5.0% (31 mmol/mol), 5.0–5.7% (31–39 mmol/mol; reference), 5.7–6.5% (39–48 mmol/mol)).

Results

At baseline, a history of myocardial infarction (MI) was more prevalent in subjects in the highest HbA1c group (18%) than in the reference group (7%) (P = .001). Prospectively, those with the highest level of HbA1c at baseline had a risk of incident MI during the 5‐year follow‐up that was 3.6 (95% confidence interval = 1.5–8.3) times as great as that of the reference group. No association was found between HbA1c level and incident stroke, cardiovascular mortality, or all‐cause mortality.

Conclusion

In individuals aged 85 and older without diabetes mellitus, higher HbA1c is associated with greater risk of MI but not with stroke and mortality.
Comparison of Wells and Revised Geneva Rule to Assess Pretest Probability of Pulmonary Embolism in High‐Risk Hospitalized Elderly Adults
Authors: Di Marca Salvatore , Cilia Chiara , Campagna Andrea , D'Arrigo Graziella , ElHafeez Samar Abd , Tripepi Giovanni , Puccia Giuseppe , Pisano Marcella , Mastrosimone Gianluca , Terranova Valentina , Cardella Antonella , Buonacera Agata , Stancanelli Benedetta , Zoccali Carmine , Malatino Lorenzo
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To assess and compare the diagnostic power for pulmonary embolism (PE) of Wells and revised Geneva scores in two independent cohorts (training and validation groups) of elderly adults hospitalized in a non‐emergency department.

Design

Prospective clinical study, January 2011 to January 2013.

Setting

Unit of Internal Medicine inpatients, University of Catania, Italy.

Participants

Elderly adults (mean age 76 ± 12), presenting with dyspnea or chest pain and with high clinical probability of PE or D‐dimer values greater than 500 ng/mL (N = 203), were enrolled and consecutively assigned to a training (n = 101) or a validation (n = 102) group. The clinical probability of PE was assessed using Wells and revised Geneva scores.

Measurements

Clinical examination, D‐dimer test, and multidetector computed angiotomography were performed in all participants. The accuracy of the scores was assessed using receiver operating characteristic analyses.

Results

PE was confirmed in 46 participants (23%) (24 training group, 22 validation group). In the training group, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.91 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.85–0.98) for the Wells score and 0.69 (95% CI = 0.56–0.82) for the revised Geneva score (P < .001). These results were confirmed in the validation group (P < .05). The positive (LR+) and negative likelihood ratios (LR−) (two indices combining sensitivity and specificity) of the Wells score were superior to those of the revised Geneva score in the training (LR+, 7.90 vs 1.34; LR−, 0.23 vs 0.66) and validation (LR+, 13.5 vs 1.46; LR−, 0.47 vs 0.54) groups.

Conclusion

In high‐risk elderly hospitalized adults, the Wells score is more accurate than the revised Geneva score for diagnosing PE.
Routinised and compulsive‐like behaviours in individuals with Down syndrome
Authors: Glenn S. , Cunningham C. , Nananidou A. , Prasher V. , Glenholmes P.
Published: June 2015

Background

Increased intensities of routinised and compulsive‐like behaviours are seen in those with intellectual disabilities and have sometimes been shown to be associated with worries. We used the Childhood Routines Inventory (CRI, Evans et al., 1997) with two samples of children and adults with Down syndrome: (1) to determine whether routinised and compulsive‐like behaviours were associated with mental health problems and (2) to determine the factor structure of the CRI.

Method

Parents or carers completed the CRI for (1) 125 adults with Down syndrome (aged 18–43 years) who had been assessed for mental health problems; worries and fears were also rated by parents/carers and (2) 206 individuals with Down syndrome (aged 4.5–43 years, with verbal mental ages of 2 years and above).

Results

(1) People with a psychiatric diagnosis had significantly more worries and fears than those without such a diagnosis, but there was no significant difference in CRI scores. Logistic regression indicated that the fear rating was the only significant predictor of a diagnosis. (2) Exploratory and confirmatory analyses showed a three‐factor model (Just right, Repetitive behaviour and Clothes sensitivity) to be the best solution. Those with psychiatric diagnoses had significantly higher ratings on the Repetitive behaviour factor.

Conclusion

Increased levels of routinised and compulsive‐like behaviours were shown by individuals with Down syndrome of all ages, were not associated with mental health problems, but were associated with worries and fears. Factor analysis found three factors, two of which (Just right and Repetitive behaviours), were similar to those identified in typically developing samples. This suggests that the behaviours have similar adaptive functions in individuals with developmental delays.
The influence of self‐esteem and social support on the relationship between stigma and depressive symptomology in parents caring for children with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Cantwell J. , Muldoon O. , Gallagher S.
Published: June 2015

Background

This study explored the synergistic relationship between stigma, self‐esteem and social support, as predictors of depressive symptomology in parents of children with disabilities (e.g. Autism and Down syndrome).

Method

One hundred and seventy‐three parents (115 parents of children with disabilities and 58 control parents) completed measures of perceived stigma, self‐esteem, social support and depressive symptoms.

Results

Parents of children with disabilities reported more depressive symptomology; additionally, stigma, self‐esteem and social support were associated with depressive symptomology. Moreover, the association between stigma and depressive symptomology was mediated by self‐esteem, i.e. parents who reported higher stigma were lower on self‐esteem and more depressed. Further, this path varied as a function of emotional support.

Conclusion

Results highlight the need for tailored interventions that offer parents effective strategies in dealing with stigma through social support and self‐esteem.
Natural Hedging Strategies for Life Insurers: Impact of Product Design and Risk Measure
Authors: Wong Andy , Sherris Michael , Stevens Ralph
Published: June 2015

Natural hedging allows life insurers to manage long‐term longevity and investment risks of life annuity products through offsetting risks in life insurance products. Benefits include a reduction in risk‐based capital. We use stochastic mortality and interest rate models to assess life insurance and annuity capital requirements and to quantify the benefits of natural hedging for a range of different types of life insurance product designs and risk measures based on probability of insurer solvency. We show that level‐premium life insurance products with a medium duration (around 20–30 years) can better hedge annuity products than whole life products. Renewable term life insurance products have less hedge effectiveness than level‐premium term insurance. Results vary with the risk measure used, with the 1‐year horizon Solvency II risk measure showing lower natural hedging benefits of life insurance compared to multiple‐period risk measures.
The Influence of Affect on Heuristic Thinking in Insurance Demand
Authors: Jaspersen Johannes G. , Aseervatham Vijay
Published: June 2015

Heuristic thinking can influence human behavior in decisions under risk and uncertainty. In an experimental setting, we study whether emotional activation primes individuals to use the representativeness heuristic and the affect heuristic. We observe the decision behavior of 272 subjects in a computer‐based experiment that differentiates between incidental affect and integral affect. Positive incidental affect and integral affect increase the use of the representativeness heuristic, while negative incidental affect has no effect. Our findings have statistical and economic significance and carry implications for insurance companies and regulators.
Differentiating zones at periodontal ligament–bone and periodontal ligament–cementum entheses
Authors: Lee J‐H. , Pryce B. A. , Schweitzer R. , Ryder M. I. , Ho S. P.
Published: June 2015

Background and Objective

The structural and functional integrity of bone–periodontal ligament (PDL)–cementum complex stems from the load‐bearing attachment sites (entheses) between soft (PDL) and hard (bone, cementum) tissues. These attachment sites are responsible for the maintenance of a bone–PDL–cementum complex biomechanical function. The objective was to investigate changes in spatiotemporal expression of key biomolecules in developing and functionally active entheses.

Material and Methods

Multilabeling technique was performed on hemimandibles of 3 wk and 3 mo‐old scleraxis–GFP transgenic mice for CD146, CD31, NG2, osterix and bone sialoprotein. Regions of dominant stretch within the PDL were evaluated by identifying directionality of collagen fibrils, PDL fibroblasts and PDL cell cytoskeleton.

Results

CD146+ cells adjacent to CD31+ vasculature were identified at PDL–bone enthesis. NG2+ cells were located at coronal bone–PDL and apical cementum–PDL entheses in the 3‐wk‐old group, but at 3 mo, NG2 was positive at the entheses of the apical region and alveolar crest. NG2 and osterix were colocalized at the osteoid and cementoid regions of the PDL–bone and PDL–cementum entheses. Bone sialoprotein was prominent at the apical region of 3‐wk‐old mice. The directionality of collagen fibers, fibroblasts and their cytoskeleton overlapped, except in the apical region of 3 wk.

Conclusion

Colocalization of biomolecules at zones of the PDL adjacent to attachment sites may be essential for the formation of precementum and osteoid interfaces at a load‐bearing bone–PDL–tooth fibrous joint. Biophysical cues resulting from development and function can regulate recruitment and differentiation of stem cells potentially from a vascular origin toward osteo‐ and cemento‐blastic lineages at the PDL–bone and PDL–cementum entheses. Investigating the coupled effect of biophysical and biochemical stimuli leading to cell differentiation at the functional attachment sites is critical for developing regeneration strategies to enable functional reconstruction of the periodontal complex.
LGIProteins and Epilepsy in Human and Animals
Authors: Pakozdy A. , Patzl M. , Zimmermann L. , Jokinen T.S. , Glantschnigg U. , Kelemen A. , Hasegawa D.
Published: June 2015

Leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated (LGI) protein was first thought to have a suppressor effect in the formation of some cancers. Developments in physiology and medicine made it possible to characterize the function of theLGIprotein family and its crucial role in different conditions more precisely. These proteins play an important role in synaptic transmission, and dysfunction may cause hyperexcitability. Genetic mutation ofLGI1was confirmed to be the cause of autosomal dominant lateral temporal lobe epilepsy in humans. TheLGI2mutation was identified in benign familial juvenile epilepsy in Lagotto Romagnolo (LR) dogs. Cats with familial spontaneous temporal lobe epilepsy have been reported, and the etiology might be associated withLGIprotein family dysfunction. In addition, an autoimmune reaction againstLGI1 was detected in humans and cats with limbic encephalitis. These advances prompted a review ofLGIprotein function and its role in different seizure disorders.
Money and Inflation: Is Monetary Policy Useful?
Authors: Christev Atanas , Kang Yue
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we establish a connection between money growth and inflation identified under different monetary policy regimes usingUKdata. We study the (in)stability of this quantity theoretic relationship, and interpret it through the lens of aNewKeynesian model of monetary policy with alternative policy rules. We document the implied instability of low‐frequency correlations between money growth and inflation emerging as a result of differences in monetary policies epitomizing theUKexperience since the 1970s. In general, we show that monetary policy regime shifts contribute to the breakdown of the quantity theoretic propositions. Our findings seem to lend support to related work for theUSover the last century.
More than one way to evolve a weed: parallel evolution of US weedy rice through independent genetic mechanisms
Authors: Qi Xinshuai , Liu Yan , Vigueira Cynthia C. , Young Nelson D. , Caicedo Ana L. , Jia Yulin , Gealy David R. , Olsen Kenneth M.
Published: June 2015

Many different crop species were selected for a common suite of ‘domestication traits’, which facilitates their use for studies of parallel evolution. Within domesticated rice (Oryza sativa), there has also been independent evolution of weedy strains from different cultivated varieties. This makes it possible to examine the genetic basis of parallel weed evolution and the extent to which this process occurs through shared genetic mechanisms. We performed comparative QTL mapping of weediness traits using two recombinant inbred line populations derived from crosses between an indica crop variety and representatives of each of the two independently evolved weed strains found in US rice fields, strawhull (S) and blackhull awned (B). Genotyping‐by‐sequencing provided dense marker coverage for linkage map construction (average marker interval <0.25 cM), with 6016 and 13 730 SNPs mapped in F5 lines of the S and B populations, respectively. For some weediness traits (awn length, hull pigmentation and pericarp pigmentation), QTL mapping and sequencing of underlying candidate genes confirmed that trait variation was largely attributable to individual loci. However, for more complex quantitative traits (including heading date, panicle length and seed shattering), we found multiple QTL, with little evidence of shared genetic bases between the S and B populations or across previous studies of weedy rice. Candidate gene sequencing revealed causal genetic bases for 8 of 27 total mapped QTL. Together these findings suggest that despite the genetic bottleneck that occurred during rice domestication, there is ample genetic variation in this crop to allow agricultural weed evolution through multiple genetic mechanisms.
Phage T4‐induced DNA breaks activate a tRNA repair‐defying anticodon nuclease
Authors: Bitton Lital , Klaiman Daniel , Kaufmann Gabriel
Published: June 2015

The natural role of the conserved bacterial anticodon nuclease (ACNase) RloC is not known, but traits that set it apart from the homologous phage T4‐excluding ACNase PrrC could provide relevant clues. PrrC is silenced by a genetically linked DNA restriction‐modification (RM) protein and turned on by a phage‐encoded DNA restriction inhibitor. In contrast, RloC is rarely linked to an RM protein, and its ACNase is regulated by an internal switch responsive to double‐stranded DNA breaks. Moreover, PrrC nicks the tRNA substrate, whereas RloC excises the wobble nucleotide. These distinctions suggested that (i) T4 and related phage that degrade their host DNA will activate RloC and (ii) the tRNA species consequently disrupted will not be restored by phage tRNA repair enzymes that counteract PrrC. Consistent with these predictions we show that Acinetobacter baylyi RloC expressed in Escherichia coli is activated by wild‐type phage T4 but not by a mutant impaired in host DNA degradation. Moreover, host and T4 tRNA species disrupted by the activated ACNase were not restored by T4's tRNA repair system. Nonetheless, T4's plating efficiency was inefficiently impaired by AbaRloC, presumably due to a decoy function of the phage encoded tRNA target, the absence of which exacerbated the restriction.
Emerging therapies in immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: Yeo See Cheng , Liew Adrian , Barratt Jonathan
Published: June 2015

Despite advances in our understanding of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) over the past decade, there are currently no specific therapies capable of targeting key pathways involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Recent studies have, however, provided new insights into important molecular pathways that are likely to be amenable to therapeutic manipulation in the future. Specifically, a deeper understanding of the role of mucosal immunity, B‐cell activation and mesangial cell activation in IgAN has provided the impetus for a number of exciting phase II/III clinical trials in IgAN. In this review, we examine some of these on‐going studies, first examining studies that clarify the role of traditional immunosuppression in IgAN, then focusing on novel therapies in early clinical studies, looking closely at the rationale for these agents in relation to our current understanding of the pathogenesis of IgAN. Finally, we examine emerging pathways and therapeutic agents that have the potential to be developed as novel therapies in the coming years. It is hoped that as we continue to develop a greater understanding of IgAN, emerging therapies will soon become a reality in the day‐to‐day treatment of patients with IgAN.
Working in a ‘third space’: a closer look at the hybridity, identity and agency of nurse practitioners
Authors: Chulach Teresa , Gagnon Marilou
Published: June 2015

Nurse practitioners (NPs), as advanced practice nurses, have evolved over the years to become recognized as an important and growing trend in Canada and worldwide. In spite of sound evidence as to the effectiveness ofNPs in primary care and other care settings, role implementation and integration continue to pose significant challenges. This article utilizes postcolonial theory, as articulated by Homi Bhabha, to examine and challenge traditional ideologies and structures that have shaped the development, implementation and integration of theNProle to this day. Specifically, we utilize Bhabha's concepts of third space, hybridity, identity and agency in order to further conceptualize the nurse practitioner role, to examine how the role challenges some of the inherent assumptions within the healthcare system and to explore how development of each to these concepts may prove useful in integration of nurse practitioners within the healthcare system. Our analysis casts light on the importance of a broader, power structure analysis and illustrates how colonial assumptions operating within our current healthcare system entrench, expand and re‐invent, as well as mask the structures and practices that serve to impede nurse practitioner full integration and contributions. Suggestions are made for future analysis and research.
MeCP2 in the enteric nervous system
Authors: Wahba G. , Schock S. C. , Claridge E. , Bettolli M. , Grynspan D. , Humphreys P. , Staines W. A.
Published: June 2015

Background

Rett syndrome (RTT) is an intellectual deficit and movement disorder that develops during early childhood in girls. Affected children are normal until 6–18 months of age, after which symptoms begin to appear. Most cases of RTT are due to mutations in the MeCP2 gene leading to disruption of neuronal communication in the central nervous system. In addition, RTT patients show peripheral ailments such as gastrointestinal (GI), respiratory, and cardiac dysfunction. The etiology of intestinal dysfunction in RTT is not well‐understood. Reports on the presence of MeCP2 in the peripheral nervous system are scant. As such we examined the levels of MeCP2 in human and murine GI tissue and assessed MeCP2 expression at various developmental stages.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry for MeCP2, HuC/D, juvenile beta tubulin, and GFAP was performed on human and murine intestine. Western blots of these same tissues were probed with MeCP2, vAChT, nNOS, and beta‐actin antibodies.

Key Results

MeCP2 is expressed throughout the GI tract. MeCP2 is expressed specifically in the enteric nervous system of the GI tract. MeCP2 is expressed in the GI tract throughout development with appearance beginning at or before E11.5 in the murine intestine.

Conclusions & Inferences

The proof of MeCP2 expression in enteric neurons suggests that the GI dysmotility in Rett may arise from enteric network dysfunction secondary to MeCP2 mutation.
Inter‐rater reliability and validity of automated impedance manometry analysis and fluoroscopy in dysphagic patients after head and neck cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Szczesniak M. M. , Maclean J. , Zhang T. , Liu R. , Cock C. , Rommel N. , Omari T. I. , Cook I. J.
Published: June 2015

Background

Pharyngeal automated impedance manometry (AIM) analysis is a novel non‐radiological method to analyze swallowing function based on impedance‐pressure recordings. In dysphagic head and neck cancer patients, we evaluated the reliability and validity of the AIM‐derived swallow risk index (SRI) and a novel measure of postswallow residue (iZn/Z) by comparing it against videofluoroscopy as the gold standard.

Methods

Three blinded experts classified 88 videofluoroscopic swallows from 16 patients for aspiration and degree of postswallow residue. Pressure–impedance recordings of the patient and age‐matched control swallows were analyzed using AIM by three observers who derived the SRI and iZn/Z. Intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated for videofluoroscopic and AIM measures. Patient pressure/impedance measurements were compared with videofluoroscopy scores and control subjects to determine validity for detecting clinically relevant swallowing dysfunction.

Key Results

Agreement among observers assessing presence of penetration and aspiration was modest (ICC 0.57) for videofluoroscopy and good (ICC 0.71, 0.82) for AIM‐derived SRI and iZn/Z. When compared with age‐matched controls, the SRI was higher in patients with aspiration (mean diff. 28.6, 95% CI [55.85, 1.355], p < 0.05). The iZn/Z had moderate positive correlation with bolus residue on fluoroscopy (BRS score) (rs(86) = 0.4120, p < 0.0001) and was increased in both patients with aspiration (∆244 [419.7, 69.52; p < 0.05]) and penetration (∆240 [394.3, 85.77]; p < 0.05) compared to controls.

Conclusions & Inferences

AIM‐based measures of swallowing function have better inter‐rater reliability than comparable fluoroscopically derived measures. These measures are easily determined and objective markers of clinically relevant features of disordered swallowing following radiotherapy.