bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infliximab for ipilimumab‐induced colitis: A series of 13 patients
Authors: Hillock Nadine T , Heard Sharryn , Kichenadasse Ganessan , Hill Catherine L , Andrews Jane
Published: December 2016

Objective

To review the outcomes of metastatic melanoma patients treated with infliximab for severe steroid‐refractory colitis secondary to ipilimumab therapy.

Background

Immune‐related colitis is a known potential adverse effect of ipilimumab, that causes significant morbidity and extended hospital stays. There are limited outcome data for patients treated with infliximab for ipilimumab‐induced colitis refractory to corticosteroids. Management guidelines have been developed based on case study evidence only.

Design and setting

A retrospective review of all patients administered infliximab for ipilimumab‐induced colitis at South Australian public hospitals between October 2011 and April 2015.

Main outcome measures

Resolution of colitis/diarrhea, duration of hospital stay, dosage regimen of infliximab used (single dose vs multiple dose) and surgical intervention if required.

Results

Between October 2011 and April 2015, 106 patients were dispensed ipilimumab from South Australian public hospitals for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Thirteen were administered infliximab for severe, steroid‐refractory colitis secondary to ipilimumab. Sixty‐two percent received a single dose of infliximab only. Four patients achieved resolution of colitis symptoms at 1 month postinfliximab. Thirty‐three percent required surgical intervention despite treatment with infliximab. One patient declined surgery and subsequently died due to bowel perforation. The average number of overnight bed days due to colitis was 27.

Conclusion

This series of patients with severe ipilimumab‐induced colitis suggests that despite treatment with infliximab a high proportion of patients do not achieve resolution of symptoms. Review of these cases has highlighted the absence of evidence‐based guidelines to treat severe, steroid refractory colitis secondary to ipilimumab. Further prospective studies may clarify the role of infliximab for the treatment of ipilimumab‐induced colitis.
Longitudinal study shows that addictive Internet use during adolescence was associated with heavy drinking and smoking cigarettes in early adulthood
Authors: Lee Bo Hye , Lee Hae Kook
Published: December 2016

Aim

Existing studies showing an association between substance use disorders and Internet addiction have been limited due their cross‐sectional design. This longitudinal study investigated the association between addictive Internet use during adolescence and heavy drinking and cigarette smoking in early adulthood.

Methods

We focused on middle school students from the Korea Youth Panel Study who were 15 in 2003:1804 who did not drink alcohol and 2277 who did not smoke. Multivariate logistic analysis investigated the relationships between Internet use at the age of 15, with regard to location, time spent and reason for use, and drinking and smoking at the age of 20.

Results

Using the Internet for chatting, games and adult websites at the age of 15 had a significant association with heavy drinking at the age of 20. The Internet café as the location for Internet use at the age of 15 was associated with smoking behaviour at the age of 20.

Conclusion

This study confirmed significant associations between addictive use of the Internet at the age of 15 and heavy drinking and cigarette smoking at the age of 20. The findings demonstrated the negative effects of addictive Internet use, one of the biggest problems with adolescents.
Touchscreen generation: children's current media use, parental supervision methods and attitudes towards contemporary media
Authors: Kostyrka‐Allchorne Katarzyna , Cooper Nicholas R. , Simpson Andrew
Published: December 2016

Aim

To explore media preferences and use among young children, as well as to obtain information about parental supervision methods and beliefs about media.

Method

Ninety parents of three‐ to six‐year‐olds, recruited from a relatively economically advantaged area in the United Kingdom, completed a media opinion survey.

Results

Although traditional television remains the favourite type of media platform among young children, touchscreen devices are gaining in popularity, and may promote simultaneous multi‐screen use. Moreover, parents believe that the effects of media on developmental outcomes are generally positive. However, they do monitor the content of traditional and new media their children are exposed to.

Conclusion

This study shows an emerging evidence of concurrent multi‐screen use among very young children. More detailed examination of early media multitasking, and its relationship to cognitive and behavioural outcomes, is necessary.
New mothers’ experiences of the urban environment with their preterm infants involve complex social, emotional and psychological processes
Authors: Gullino Silvia , Kaiser Anthony , Khan Hammad , Phillips Aisling , Elwin Alice , Edwards AD
Published: December 2016

Aim

Studies have explored how mothers and premature babies make the transition from a neonatal unit (NNU) to home, but little is known about how mothers cope with urban life with a vulnerable baby. This controlled trial investigated how first‐time mothers with singleton preterm babies handled that experience in the first few months after discharge from a NNU, compared to the first‐time mothers of healthy, singleton term‐born infants.

Methods

This parent‐led, qualitative study was carried out in London, UK, from 2013 to 2015 and used diaries and walking interviews with researchers. Thematic network analysis was performed to provide insights into the experiences of these 19 mothers.

Results

The two groups had similar experiences and needs in the urban environment, and these common experiences of city life shaped their new identities as mothers. However, the mothers of preterm babies had difficulties developing supportive relationships and seeking affirming social environments.

Conclusion

This study highlights what the mothers of preterm babies experienced in the first few months after their infant was discharged from hospital. It stresses the need to understand the complexity of the mothers’ social, emotional and psychological processes when they make the transition from home to visit the city with a vulnerable baby.
Neuromuscular changes and the rapid adaptation following a bout of damaging eccentric exercise
Authors: Goodall S. , Thomas K. , Barwood M. , Keane K. , Gonzalez J. T. , St Clair Gibson A. , Howatson G.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

An initial bout of eccentric exercise is known to protect against muscle damage following a repeated bout of the same exercise; however, the neuromuscular adaptations owing to this phenomenon are unknown.

Aim

To determine whether neuromuscular disturbances are modulated following a repeated bout of eccentric exercise.

Methods

Following eccentric exercise performed with the elbow flexors, we measured maximal voluntary force, resting twitch force, muscle soreness, creatine kinase (CK) and voluntary activation (VA) using motor point and motor cortex stimulation at baseline, immediately post‐exercise and at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7 days post‐exercise on two occasions, separated by 3 weeks.

Results

Significant muscle damage and fatigue were evident following the first exercise bout; maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was reduced immediately by 35% and remained depressed at 7 days post‐exercise. Soreness and CK release peaked at 3 and 4 days post‐exercise respectively. Resting twitch force remained significantly reduced at 7 days (−48%), whilst VA measured with motor point and motor cortex stimulation was reduced until 2 and 3 days respectively. A repeated bout effect (RBE) was observed with attenuated soreness and CK release and a quicker recovery of MVC and resting twitch force. A similar decrement in VA was observed following both bouts; however, following the repeated bout there was a significantly smaller reduction in, and a faster recovery of, VA measured using motor cortical stimulation.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that the RBE may be explained, partly, by a modification in motor corticospinal drive.
Exporting and Upgrading of Product Portfolio: Evidence from Korea, Japan and Indonesia*
Authors: Hahn Chin Hee , Ito Keiko , Narjoko Dionisius
Published: December 2016

This paper examines the effect of exporting on ‘product portfolio upgrading’ in a plant, using plant–product matched datasets for Korea, Japan and Indonesia. First, we find that a substantial part of aggregate shipments growth is explained by net adding of products for all three countries. Second, export starters are more likely to add products and to change product shares in plants than never exporters. Third, added products tend to have higher product quality than dropped products. Therefore, our results imply that the entry to export markets plays an important role in product portfolio upgrading: the process of reallocation from lower‐attribute to higher‐attribute products.
Effects of Educational Mistmatch on Wages in the Korean Labor Market*
Authors: Lee Hanol , Lee Jong‐Wha , Song Eunbi
Published: December 2016

Using data on Korean workers from the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, the present study empirically investigates the incidence and wage effects of educational mismatch. Among full‐time workers aged 25–54, approximately 27 percent are overeducated and 15 percent are undereducated. Our results reveal that, after controlling for omitted variable bias and measurement errors, return to an additional year of overeducation is significantly less than that to a year of required education, whereas undereducated workers do not appear to suffer wage penalties associated with their deficit schooling. The findings also show that returns to a year of overeducation vary across fields of study. The returns to overeducation for college graduates from health and welfare, engineering and manufacturing, and social sciences, business and law are relatively high compared with those in agriculture, services, and humanities and arts.
Board Characteristics, Firm Profitability and Earnings Management: Evidence from India
Authors: Kapoor Nimisha , Goel Sandeep
Published: December 2016

The present paper explores the association between earnings management and specific board characteristics and the firm's profitability in the Indian context. In India, the corporate ownership model is the promoter dominated shareholders model. This is the first study based on a panel data framework that employs a fixed effect model to control for time‐invariant endogeneity. It also contributes to the literature by exploring the role of the firm's profitability in transmitting the impact of audit committee independence on earnings management. The study finds that profitability is an important variable, as it moderates the association between audit committee independence and earnings management. Managers of a profit‐making company would have little need to modify their earnings. This signifies that independent audit committees are more effective monitors of earnings management in profitable firms than in non‐profitable firms. Independent directors with multiple directorships are also found to be ineffective monitors. The findings are of material significance to policymakers in analysing board effectiveness and earnings management and improving policymaking for corporate governance by using profitability and related variables.
Accounting Education and the Prerequisite Skills of Accounting Graduates: Are Accounting Firms’ Moving the Boundaries?
Authors: Chaplin Sally
Published: December 2016

The current requisite skills of accounting graduates guide the graduate attributes delivered by university learning outcomes. A recent trend by Australian accounting firms to outsource accounting services may impact on accounting graduates if entry‐level tasks normally completed by graduates are sent to offshore processing centres. This study examines the impact of the outsourcing of accounting services by Australian accounting firms and classifies the current requisite skills for accounting graduates identified by accounting firms. Following a review of the current academic literature, a positivist approach using empirical data is taken in this paper. The responses elicited from a survey questionnaire mailed to a random sample of Australian accounting firms provide information for the data analysis. One of the most widely outsourced services identified is the preparation of income tax returns, which has been identified as a key area where graduate accountants normally learn the basic skills required to phase them into the profession. Accounting firms that considered the outsourcing of accounting services would change the 12 ranked prerequisite skills for graduates presented in this paper in order of importance.
Carnitine and γ‐Butyrobetaine Stimulate Elimination of Meldonium due to Competition for OCTN2‐mediated Transport
Authors: Liepinsh Edgars , Makarova Elina , Sevostjanovs Eduards , Hartmane Dace , Cirule Helena , Zharkova‐Malkova Olga , Grinberga Solveiga , Dambrova Maija
Published: December 2016

Meldonium (3‐(2,2,2‐trimethylhydrazinium)propionate) is the most potent clinically used inhibitor of organic cation transporter 2 (OCTN2). Inhibition of OCTN2 leads to a decrease in carnitine and acylcarnitine contents in tissues and energy metabolism optimization‐related cardioprotective effects. The recent inclusion of meldonium in the World Anti‐Doping Agency List of Prohibited Substances and Methods has raised questions about the pharmacokinetics of meldonium and its unusually long elimination time. Therefore, in this study, the rate of meldonium washout after the end of the treatment was tested with and without administration of carnitine, γ‐butyrobetaine (GBB) and furosemide to evaluate the importance of competition for OCTN2 transport in mice. Here, we show that carnitine and GBB administration during the washout period effectively stimulated the elimination of meldonium. GBB induced a more pronounced effect on meldonium elimination than carnitine due to the higher affinity of GBB for OCTN2. The diuretic effect of furosemide did not significantly affect the elimination of meldonium, carnitine and GBB. In conclusion, the competition of meldonium, carnitine and GBB for OCTN2‐mediated transport determines the pharmacokinetic properties of meldonium. Thus, due to their affinity for OCTN2, GBB and carnitine but not furosemide stimulated meldonium elimination. During long‐term treatment, OCTN2‐mediated transport ensures a high muscle content of meldonium, while tissue clearance depends on relatively slow diffusion, thus resulting in the unusually long complete elimination period of meldonium.
Synergistic Combination for Chemoprevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An In Silico and In Vitro Approach
Authors: Mishra Savita , Katare Deepshikha Pande
Published: December 2016

Combination therapy is one of the best methods to manage the fatality rate in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to formulate a synergistic combination of synthetic and herbal compounds for the treatment of HCC as well as to elucidate a possible signalling mechanism. MTT and enzymatic assay were performed to determine the synergistic effect of drug combination (sorafenib, vitamin K1 and trans‐chalcone) on HepG2 cell lines after intoxication with H2O2. Protein–protein interaction and docking studies were performed using Pathwaylinker2.0 and Schrödinger's software application to find out the mechanism of action and major targets for drug combination. The overall in vitro result showed that combination of trans‐chalcone, vitamin K1 and sorafenib (10, 5 and 5 μM concentration, respectively) enhanced the resistance against oxidative stress generated by H2O2. The interaction studies helped in identification of few targets for docking of ligands (trans‐chalcone, vitamin K1 and sorafenib). The study reports the synergistic effects of the formulation that can protect the cells from oxidative stress and restore normal levels of cellular enzymes in HepG2 cell line. We were able to determine the mechanism of action of herbal and synthetic formulation through in silico studies. Finally, docking studies confirmed potential targets for inhibition of hepatocarcinogenesis.
Approach to patients with essential thrombocythaemia and very high platelet counts: what is the evidence for treatment?
Authors: Falchi Lorenzo , Bose Prithviraj , Newberry Kate J. , Verstovsek Srdan
Published: December 2016

Treatment of essential thrombocythaemia (ET) is directed at decreasing the risk of complications of the disease, including arterial and venous thrombosis and bleeding episodes. Established risk factors for vascular events in patients with ET include advanced age (>60 years) and prior history of thrombosis or haemorrhage. The role, if any, of other potential risk factors, including cardiovascular risk factors, leucocytosis, high haematocrit, and JAK2 V617F has been analysed in multiple studies. The impact of thrombocytosis on the risk of vascular events has also been investigated. Many clinicians consider an elevated platelet count to be a risk factor for thrombosis or, when extreme, bleeding and utilize this as a criterion to start cytoreductive therapy. However, the relationship between thrombocytosis and vascular events is controversial and solid evidence to support the use of cytoreductive therapy in ET patients who have no other risk factors is lacking. In this review, we discuss current treatment recommendations for patients with ET, the biology underlying vascular events and risk factors thereof. We then review the evidence on the management of patients with ET and extreme thrombocytosis.
Knowledge insufficient: the management of haemoglobin SC disease
Authors: Pecker Lydia H. , Schaefer Beverly A. , Luchtman‐Jones Lori
Published: December 2016

Although haemoglobin SC (HbSC) accounts for 30% of sickle cell disease (SCD) in the United States and United Kingdom, evidence‐based guidelines for genotype specific management are lacking. The unique pathology of HbSC disease is complex, characterized by erythrocyte dehydration, intracellular sickling and increased blood viscosity. The evaluation and treatment of patients with HbSC is largely inferred from studies of SCD consisting mostly of haemoglobin SS (HbSS) patients. These studies are underpowered to allow definitive conclusions about HbSC. We review the pathophysiology of HbSC disease, including known and potential differences between HbSS and HbSC, and highlight knowledge gaps in HbSC disease management. Clinical and translational research is needed to develop targeted treatments and to validate management recommendations for efficacy, safety and impact on quality of life for people with HbSC.
Exacerbation of oxidative stress during sickle vaso‐occlusive crisis is associated with decreased anti‐band 3 autoantibodies rate and increased red blood cell‐derived microparticle level: a prospective study
Authors: Hierso Régine , Lemonne Nathalie , Villaescusa Rinaldo , Lalanne‐Mistrih Marie‐Laure , Charlot Keyne , Etienne‐Julan Maryse , Tressières Benoit , Lamarre Yann , Tarer Vanessa , Garnier Yohann , Hernandez Ada Arce , Ferracci Serge , Connes Philippe , Romana Marc , Hardy‐Dessources Marie‐Dominique
Published: December 2016

Painful vaso‐occlusive crisis, a hallmark of sickle cell anaemia, results from complex, incompletely understood mechanisms. Red blood cell (RBC) damage caused by continuous endogenous and exogenous oxidative stress may precipitate the occurrence of vaso‐occlusive crises. In order to gain insight into the relevance of oxidative stress in vaso‐occlusive crisis occurrence, we prospectively compared the expression levels of various oxidative markers in 32 adults with sickle cell anaemia during vaso‐occlusive crisis and steady‐state conditions. Compared to steady‐state condition, plasma levels of free haem, advanced oxidation protein products and myeloperoxidase,RBCcaspase‐3 activity, as well as the concentrations of total, neutrophil‐ andRBC‐derived microparticles were increased during vaso‐occlusive crises, whereas the reduced glutathione content was decreased inRBCs. In addition, natural anti‐band 3 autoantibodies levels decreased during crisis and were negatively correlated with the rise in plasma advanced oxidation protein products andRBCcaspase‐3 activity. These data showed an exacerbation of the oxidative stress during vaso‐occlusive crises in sickle cell anaemia patients and strongly suggest that the higher concentration of harmful circulatingRBC‐derived microparticles and the reduced anti‐band 3 autoantibodies levels may be both related to the recruitment of oxidized band 3 into membrane aggregates.
How do we approach thrombocytopenia in critically ill patients?
Authors: Thachil Jecko , Warkentin Theodore E.
Published: December 2016

A low platelet count is a frequently encountered haematological abnormality in patients treated in intensive treatment units (ITUs). Although severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count <20 × 109/l) can be associated with bleeding, even moderate‐degree thrombocytopenia is associated with organ failure and adverse prognosis. The aetiology for thrombocytopenia in ITU is often multifactorial and correcting one aetiology may not normalise the low platelet count. The classical view for thrombocytopenia in this setting is consumption associated with thrombin‐mediated platelet activation, but other concepts, including platelet adhesion to endothelial cells and leucocytes, platelet aggregation by increased von Willebrand factor release, red cell damage and histone release, and platelet destruction by the complement system, have recently been described. The management of severe thrombocytopenia is platelet transfusion in the presence of active bleeding or invasive procedure, but the risk‐benefit of prophylactic platelet transfusions in this setting is uncertain. In this review, the incidence and mechanisms of thrombocytopenia in patients with ITU, its prognostic significance and the impact on organ function is discussed. A practical approach based on the authors' experience is described to guide management of a critically ill patient who develops thrombocytopenia.
Robotic salvage retroperitoneal and pelvic lymph node dissection for ‘node‐only’ recurrent prostate cancer: technique and initial series
Authors: Abreu Andre , Fay Carlos , Park Daniel , Quinn David , Dorff Tanya , Carpten John , Kuhn Peter , Gill Parkash , Almeida Fabio , Gill Inderbir
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To describe the technique of robot‐assisted high‐extended salvage retroperitoneal and pelvic lymphadenectomy (sRPLND+PLND) for ‘node‐only’ recurrent prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

In all, 10 patients underwent robot‐assisted sRPLND+PLND (09/2015–03/2016) for ‘node‐only’ recurrent prostate cancer, as identified by 11C‐acetate positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging. Our anatomical template extends from bilateral renal artery/vein cranially up to Cloquet's node caudally, completely excising lymphatic‐fatty tissue from aorto‐caval and iliac vascular trees; RPLND precedes PLND. Meticulous node‐mapping assessed nodes at four prospectively assigned anatomical zones.

Results

The median operative time was 4.8 h, estimated blood loss 100 mL and hospital stay 1 day. No patient had an intraoperative complication, open conversion or blood transfusion. Three patients had spontaneously resolving Clavien–Dindo grade II postoperative complications. The mean (range) number of nodes excised per patient was 83 (41–132) and mean (range) number of positive nodes per patient was 23 (0–109). Seven patients (70%) had positive nodes on final pathology. Node‐positive rates per anatomical level I, II, III and IV were 28%, 32%, 33% and 33%, respectively. In patients with positive nodes, the median PSA level had decreased by 83% at the 2‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

The initial series of robot‐assisted sRPLND+PLND is presented, wherein we duplicate open surgery with superior nodal counts and decreased morbidity. Robot‐assisted technical details for an anatomical LND template up to the renal vessels are presented. Longer follow‐up is necessary to assess oncological outcomes.
Climate change and nesting behaviour in vertebrates: a review of the ecological threats and potential for adaptive responses
Authors: Mainwaring Mark C. , Barber Iain , Deeming Denis C. , Pike David A. , Roznik Elizabeth A. , Hartley Ian R.
Published: December 2016

ABSTRACT

Nest building is a taxonomically widespread and diverse trait that allows animals to alter local environments to create optimal conditions for offspring development. However, there is growing evidence that climate change is adversely affecting nest‐building in animals directly, for exampleviasea‐level rises that flood nests, reduced availability of building materials, and suboptimal sex allocation in species exhibiting temperature‐dependent sex determination. Climate change is also affecting nesting species indirectly,viarange shifts into suboptimal nesting areas, reduced quality of nest‐building environments, and changes in interactions with nest predators and parasites. The ability of animals to adapt to sustained and rapid environmental change is crucial for the long‐term persistence of many species. Many animals are known to be capable of adjusting nesting behaviour adaptively across environmental gradients and in line with seasonal changes, and this existing plasticity potentially facilitates adaptation to anthropogenic climate change. However, whilst alterations in nesting phenology, site selection and design may facilitate short‐term adaptations, the ability of nest‐building animals to adapt over longer timescales is likely to be influenced by the heritable basis of such behaviour. We urgently need to understand how the behaviour and ecology of nest‐building in animals is affected by climate change, and particularly how altered patterns of nesting behaviour affect individual fitness and population persistence. We begin our review by summarising how predictable variation in environmental conditions influences nest‐building animals, before highlighting the ecological threats facing nest‐building animals experiencing anthropogenic climate change and examining the potential for changes in nest location and/or design to provide adaptive short‐ and long‐term responses to changing environmental conditions. We end by identifying areas that we believe warrant the most urgent attention for further research.
An Integrative Conceptual Model of Parental Racial/Ethnic and Emotion Socialization and Links to Children's Social‐Emotional Development Among African American Families
Authors: Dunbar Angel S. , Leerkes Esther M. , Coard Stephanie I. , Supple Andrew J. , Calkins Susan
Published: December 2016

Researchers have called for increased evaluation of the processes that contribute to African American children's successful emotional development in the face of discrimination. Parents’ racial/ethnic and emotion socialization have been linked to children's emotional adaption. Although few studies have explicitly evaluated their joint influence on African American children's emotion adaptation, researchers studying racial and ethnic socialization have indirectly incorporated emotion socialization through evaluating parents’ guided emotion regulation strategies as ways to cope with discrimination. Similarly, researchers who study emotion socialization have described emotion socialization practices among African American parents as intentionally preparing children for racial bias regarding how others perceive their emotions. In this article, we synthesize two separate and emerging literatures—the racial/ethnic socialization literature and the literature on emotion socialization among African American families—and outline a conceptual model illustrating the overlap in the two constructs and their joint influence on African American children's social‐emotional adjustment.
Evaluations of Conflicts Between Latino Values and Autonomy Desires Among Puerto Rican Adolescents
Authors: Villalobos Solís Myriam , Smetana Judith G. , Tasopoulos‐Chan Marina
Published: December 2016

Puerto Rican adolescents (N = 105; Mage = 15.97 years, SD = 1.40) evaluated hypothetical situations describing conflicts between Latino values (family obligations and respeto) and autonomy desires regarding personal, friendship, and dating activities. Adolescents judged that peers should prioritize Latino values over autonomy, which led to greater feelings of pride than happiness. However, they believed that teens would prioritize autonomy over Latino values, which led to greater feelings of happiness than pride. Adolescents reasoned about autonomy desires as personal issues, whereas reasoning about Latino values was multifaceted, including references to conventions and concerns for others. Furthermore, judgments and reasoning depended on the type of autonomy desire and Latino value and sometimes, by participants' age and sex.
A Developmental Neuroscience Study of Moral Decision Making Regarding Resource Allocation
Authors: Meidenbauer Kimberly L. , Cowell Jason M. , Killen Melanie , Decety Jean
Published: December 2016

Distinguishing between equity and equality is essential when making social and moral decisions, yet the related neurodevelopmental processes are unknown. Evaluations of contextually based third‐party distributions incorporating recipient need and resource importance were examined in children and adolescents (N = 82; 8–16 years). Spatiotemporal neurodynamic responses show distinct developmental profiles to viewing such distributions. Event‐related potentials (ERPs) differentially predicted real‐life behaviors based on age, where older children's (8–10 years) evaluations were related to a fairly rapid, automatic ERP component (early posterior negativity), whereas adolescent and preadolescent (11–16 years) evaluations, first‐person allocations, and prosocial behaviors were predicted by later, cognitively controlled ERP components (P3 and late positive potential). Together, these results reveal age‐related changes regarding the neural responses that correspond to distributive justice decisions.
Migration, Family Arrangement, and Children's Health in China
Authors: Huang Youqin , Song Qian , Tao Ran , Liang Zai
Published: December 2016

With unprecedented migration taking place in China, millions of children are profoundly affected. Using a sample of 916 children (aged 5–18) of migrants and the life course perspective, this article examines the impact of parental migration on children's health. Results show that migration has a complex impact on children's health. Although migrating to cities itself does not benefit children, poor housing conditions in cities have a negative impact on their health. The timing of parental migration is important, as preschoolers migrating with parents and teenagers left behind by parents have significantly worse health than others. Migration also has a gendered effect, as teenage boys benefit from migrating to cities but suffer from being left behind when compared to teenage girls.
“These Pretzels Are Making Me Thirsty”: Older Children and Adults Struggle With Induced‐State Episodic Foresight
Authors: Kramer Hannah J. , Goldfarb Deborah , Tashjian Sarah M. , Lagattuta Kristin Hansen
Published: December 2016

We explored children's and adults’ ability to disengage from current physiological states when forecasting future desires. In Study 1, 8‐ to 13‐year‐olds and adults (N = 104) ate pretzels (to induce thirst) and then predicted and explained what they would want tomorrow, pretzels or water. Demonstrating life‐span continuity, approximately 70% of participants, regardless of age, chose water and referenced current thirst as their rationale. Individual differences in working memory and undergraduate grade point average were positively related to performance on the pretzel task. In Study 2, we obtained baseline preferences from adults (N = 35) and confirmed that, prior to consuming pretzels, people do not anticipate wanting water more than pretzels the next day. Together, these findings indicate that both children and adults are tethered to the present when forecasting their future desires.
Relations Among Cultural Learning Beliefs, Self‐Regulated Learning, and Academic Achievement for Low‐Income Chinese American Adolescents
Authors: Bempechat Janine , Li Jin , Ronfard Samuel
Published: December 2016

This mixed‐methods study of urban low‐income, English‐proficient Chinese American, second‐generation 15‐year‐olds (conducted in 2004; N = 32) examined the relation among the virtue model of learning communicated by parents and adolescents’ learning beliefs, self‐regulated learning (SRL) behaviors, and academic achievement. Analysis of in‐depth individual interviews revealed that for these adolescents, perceptions of family educational socialization predicted students’ endorsement of their culture's virtue‐oriented learning beliefs and that adolescents’ endorsement of these learning beliefs predicted their academic achievement. Importantly, adolescents’ reported that use of SRL strategies mediated the relationship between their endorsement of virtue‐oriented learning beliefs and their academic achievement. Findings are discussed in the context of further research linking cultural learning beliefs, SRL, and children's academic achievement.
Social, educational and vocational outcomes in patients with childhood‐onset and young‐adult‐onset growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Mitra M. Tanya , Jönsson Peter , Åkerblad Ann‐Charlotte , Clayton Peter , Kołtowska‐Häggström Maria , Korbonits Márta , Toogood Andy , Gleeson Helena
Published: December 2016

Objective

Hypopituitarism diagnosed in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood has the potential to affect growth and somatic development. Less is known about the impact of such a diagnosis on other aspects of development.

Design

An analysis of the KIMS database (Pfizer International Metabolic Database) was performed to explore social, educational and vocational outcomes of adult patients diagnosed in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood compared with adult‐onset controls.

Patients

A total of 2952 adult patients diagnosed with hypothalamic pituitary conditions before the age of 25 were divided into two groups: childhood‐onset [<16 years (CO)] (n = 1782) and young‐adult‐onset [16 to <25 years (YAO)] (n = 1170). A total of 1617 adult patients diagnosed with a nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma at the age of 25 or older formed the adult‐onset control group (AO).

Measurements

KIMS Patient Life Situation Form which provided information on social, educational and vocational outcomes.

Results

Compared with the AO control group, CO and YAO patients were between 4·5 and 8·0 times more likely to live with their parents in adulthood; CO and YAO patients were also less likely to live in partnership and to have children. The impact on educational and vocational outcomes was less marked than on social outcomes with no significant differences compared with the AO control group. Educational and vocational outcomes showed the lowest level in male and female CO and YAO patients who had been previously diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Conclusions

Social outcomes were more affected than educational and vocational outcomes. Although CO patients are more adversely affected, YAO patients were also failing to achieve social milestones. This has consequences for the delivery of endocrine care in both paediatric and adult services.
Neonatal 17‐hydroxyprogesterone levels adjusted according to age at sample collection and birthweight improve the efficacy of congenital adrenal hyperplasia newborn screening
Authors: Hayashi Giselle Y. , Carvalho Daniel F. , de Miranda Mirela C. , Faure Cláudia , Vallejos Carla , Brito Vinícius N. , Rodrigues Andresa De Santi , Madureira Guiomar , Mendonca Berenice B. , Bachega Tânia A.S.S.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The primary concern related to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) newborn screening (NBS) is the high rate of false‐positive results (FPR) associated with prematurity; false‐negative results (FNR) can also occur due to precocious sample collection.

Objective

To determine the neonatal 17‐hydroxyprogesterone (N17OHP) normal range in newborns in Sao Paulo using different references according to age and birthweight (BW) and to establish the optimal NBS cut‐off levels.

Methods

Neonatal 17‐hydroxyprogesterone levels from 271 810 newborns (NBs) according to sample collection time (G1: 48–<72 h and G2: ≥72 h) and BW (≤1500 g, 1501–2000 g, 2001–2500 and >2500 g) were evaluated. N17OHP was measured by an fluoroimmunoassay, and serum 17OHP was measured by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Affected and asymptomatic NBs with persistently increased 17OHP levels were submitted to CYP21A2‐sequencing.

Results

Neonatal 17‐hydroxyprogesterone levels in G1 were lower than G2 in all BW groups (P < 0·001). The FPR rate in G1/G2 was 0·2% using the 99·8th and 0·5% using the 99·5th percentile. The 99·8th percentile N17OHP value was the best cut‐off for distinguishing between unaffected and affected NBs. Forty‐four salt wasters, and five simple virilisers were diagnosed; N17OHP levels ranged from 93·3 to 2209·8 nmol/l, and no affected neonates with FNR were identified. The positive predictive value in G1 and G2 using the 99·8th percentile was 5·6% and 14·1%, respectively, and 2·3% and 7%, respectively, using the 99·5th percentile. Molecular tests identified two NBs with the nonclassical form among the 29 FPR.

Conclusion

Neonatal 17‐hydroxyprogesterone levels adjusted to sample collection age and birthweight reduced the FPR, and the use of N17OHP values based upon the 99·8th percentile improved the NBS efficacy.
Child protection and family support practice in Ireland: a contribution to present debates from a historical perspective
Authors: Devaney Carmel , Gregor Caroline Mc
Published: December 2016

This paper takes the opportunity of the current child welfare system change in Ireland to promote the value of learning from history to better understand the interface between family support and child protection. The paper draws from the histories of child protection and family support to illuminate the commonalities and differences that have come to define the two practices. Using findings from two historical studies – one on family support and the other on child protection – the paper demonstrates the unique features and the many integrated elements of family support and child protection in Ireland. It is argued that students and practitioners need to be provided with a stronger sense of the historical developments that have shaped the present. This will enable comprehension of the complex context within which current relations between ‘protection’ and ‘support’ are negotiated and help to avoid operating in a vacuum of a present only viewpoint. The paper concludes with reference to the need for students and practitioners to navigate the complex relationship between family support and child protection at practice, policy and organizational level through a well‐informed knowledge of the historical as well as the present context.
Microcephaly, intractable seizures and developmental delay caused by biallelic variants in TBCD: further delineation of a new chaperone‐mediated tubulinopathy
Authors: Pode‐Shakked B. , Barash H. , Ziv L. , Gripp K.W. , Flex E. , Barel O. , Carvalho K.S. , Scavina M. , Chillemi G. , Niceta M. , Eyal E. , Kol N. , Ben‐Zeev B. , Bar‐Yosef O. , Marek‐Yagel D. , Bertini E. , Duker A.L. , Anikster Y. , Tartaglia M. , Raas‐Rothschild A.
Published: December 2016

Microtubule dynamics play a crucial role in neuronal development and function, and several neurodevelopmental disorders have been linked to mutations in genes encoding tubulins and functionally related proteins. Most recently, variants in the tubulin cofactor D (TBCD) gene, which encodes one of the five co‐chaperones required for assembly and disassembly of α/β‐tubulin heterodimer, were reported to underlie a recessive neurodevelopmental/neurodegenerative disorder. We report on five patients from three unrelated families, who presented with microcephaly, intellectual disability, intractable seizures, optic nerve pallor/atrophy, and cortical atrophy with delayed myelination and thinned corpus callosum on brain imaging. Exome sequencing allowed the identification of biallelic variants in TBCD segregating with the disease in the three families. TBCD protein level was significantly reduced in cultured fibroblasts from one patient, supporting defective TBCD function as the event underlying the disorder. Such reduced expression was associated with accelerated microtubule re‐polymerization. Morpholino‐mediated TBCD knockdown in zebrafish recapitulated several key pathological features of the human disease, and TBCD overexpression in the same model confirmed previous studies documenting an obligate dependency on proper TBCD levels during development. Our findings confirm the link between inactivating TBCD variants and this newly described chaperone‐associated tubulinopathy, and provide insights into the phenotype of this disorder.
Spectrum of ATP7B mutations and genotype–phenotype correlation in large‐scale Chinese patients with Wilson Disease
Authors: Cheng N. , Wang H. , Wu W. , Yang R. , Liu L. , Han Y. , Guo L. , Hu J. , Xu L. , Zhao J. , Han Y. , Liu Q. , Li K. , Wang X. , Chen W.
Published: December 2016

Wilson disease (WD), an inherited disorder associated with ATP7B gene, has a wide spectrum of genotypes and phenotypes. In this study, we developed a rapid multiplex PCR‐MassArray method for detecting 110 mutant alleles of interest, and used it to examine genomic DNA from 1222 patients and 110 healthy controls. In patients not found to have any mutation in the 110 selected alleles, PCR‐Sanger sequencing was used to examine the ATP7B gene. We identified 88 mutations, including 9 novel mutations. Our analyses revealed p.Arg778Leu, p.Arg919Gly and p.Thr935Met showed some correlations to phenotype. The p.Arg778Leu was related to younger onset age and lower levels of ceruloplasmin (Cp) and serum copper, while p.Arg919Gly and p.Thr935Met both indicated higher Cp levels. Besides, the p.Arg919Gly was related to neurological subtype, and p.Thr935Met showed significant difference in the percentage of combined neurological and visceral subtype. Moreover, for ATP7B mutations, the more severe impact on ATP7B protein was, the younger onset age and lower Cp level presented. The feasibility of presymptomatic DNA diagnosis and predicting clinical manifestation or severity of WD would be facilitated with identified mutations and genotype–phenotype correlation precisely revealed in the study.
Historical biogeography of the ancient lycophyte genus Selaginella: early adaptation to xeric habitats on Pangea
Authors: Klaus Kristina V. , Schulz Christian , Bauer Dennise S. , Stützel Thomas
Published: December 2016

The ancient and cosmopolitan lycophyte genus Selaginella has living representatives around the world, but their historical biogeography has not been assessed with modern methods. We estimated a time‐calibrated phylogeny using DNA marker regions rbcL and ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 from 200 species. Node density analyses revealed that Selaginellaceae has significantly older median and mean node ages than other putative “ancient” families. We used statistical model comparison to assess different biogeographical models on our dated tree, and to estimate ancestral ranges. These revealed that Selaginella originated on Euramerica around 383 Ma in the Devonian period, while its peak diversification began with the formation of Pangea. The divergence of the two main species‐rich Selaginella lineages occurred approximately 318 Ma on the supercontinent. The major divergences within these main lineages of Selaginella took place in the Late Permian and Early Triassic, along with lineages highly adapted for xeric habitats on Pangea.
Control of invasive rats on islands and priorities for future action
Authors: Duron Quiterie , Shiels Aaron B. , Vidal Eric
Published: December 2016

Invasive rats are one of the world's most successful animal groups that cause native species extinctions and ecosystem change, particularly on islands. On large islands, rat eradication is often impossible and population control, defined as the local limitation of rat abundance, is now routinely performed on many of the world's islands as an alternative management tool. However, a synthesis of the motivations, techniques, costs, and outcomes of such rat‐control projects is lacking. We reviewed the literature, searched relevant websites, and conducted a survey via a questionnaire to synthesize the available information on rat‐control projects in island natural areas worldwide to improve rat management and native species conservation. Data were collected from 136 projects conducted over the last 40 years; most were located in Australasia (46%) and the tropical Pacific (25%) in forest ecosystems (65%) and coastal strands (22%). Most of the projects targeted Rattus rattus and most (82%) were aimed at protecting birds and endangered ecosystems. Poisoning (35%) and a combination of trapping and poisoning (42%) were the most common methods. Poisoning allows for treatment of larger areas, and poison projects generally last longer than trapping projects. Second‐generation anticoagulants (mainly brodifacoum and bromadiolone) were used most often. The median annual cost for rat‐control projects was US$17,262 or US$227/ha. Median project duration was 4 years. For 58% of the projects, rat population reduction was reported, and 51% of projects showed evidence of positive effects on biodiversity. Our data were from few countries, revealing the need to expand rat‐control distribution especially in some biodiversity hotspots. Improvement in control methods is needed as is regular monitoring to assess short‐ and long‐term effectiveness of rat‐control.
Maternal diabetes modulates offspring cell proliferation and apoptosis during odontogenesis via the TLR4/NF‐κB signalling pathway
Authors: Chen Guoqing , Sun Wenhua , Liang Yan , Chen Tian , Guo Weihua , Tian Weidong
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Maternal gestational diabetes leads to an adverse in utero environment and increases the risk of malformations during embryo organogenesis. In the present study, we analysed the effects of maternal diabetes on tooth germ cell proliferation and apoptosis in offspring, and investigated their underlying mechanisms.

Materials and methods

A rat model of maternal diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin and the pregnant rats were divided into three groups: controls, the diabetic group and diabetic group with insulin treatment. Offspring of the three groups were collected and cell proliferation and apoptosis in tooth germs were analysed. Primary dental papilla cells and dental epithelial stem cells were isolated and treated with high glucose in vitro, in an attempt to simulate maternal diabetes‐induced hyperglycaemia in vivo.

Results

Maternal diabetes significantly affected cell proliferation and apoptosis in offspring tooth germs. The TLR4/NF‐ĸB signalling pathway was activated in the tooth germs of offspring of diabetic dams. High glucose treatment activated the TLR4/NF‐ĸB signalling pathway in primary dental papilla cells and dental epithelial stem cells in vitro, resulting in suppression of cell proliferation and enhancement of apoptosis. TLR4 knockdown significantly reduced adverse effects induced by high glucose treatment.

Conclusions

Maternal gestational diabetes significantly impaired dental epithelial and mesenchymal cell proliferation and apoptosis in offspring, possibly by activation of the TLR4/NF‐ĸB signalling pathway.