bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Africa’s economic regionalism: is there any other obstacle?
Authors: Awad Atif , Yussof Ishak
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend the gravity model to examine the role of infrastructure (including human capital (HC)), macroeconomic policies, the institutional quality and the colonial regimes on intra-African trade during the period 1990-2013. The results show that the basic gravity variables have substantial influence on the bilateral trade in the continent. Most interestingly, whilst internal conflicts appear to have harmful and significant impacts on the flow of such trade, HC, the flow of foreign direct investment (FDI) and the British colonial regime appear as encouraging factors. The results of the study imply that devoting more resources to HC and creating a favourable investment environment should come as a top priority in current efforts to facilitate Africa’s economic regionalism.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs Tobit technique on a semi-log extended form for the gravity model.

Findings

The results show that the basic gravity variables have substantial influence on the bilateral trade in the continent. Most interestingly, whilst internal conflicts appear to have harmful and significant impacts on the flow of such trade; HC, the flow of FDI and the British colonial regime come out as encouraging factors.

Originality/value

The results provided can be useful to design policies oriented to facilities intra-trade between African economies. So far, this is the first study that incorporates the soft type of infrastructures, colonization and institutional quality in the investigation of the factors that can influence intra-Africa trade.
Income convergence in India: evidence from nonparametric panel data
Authors: Sofi Arfat Ahmad , S. Raja Sethu Durai
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate convergence hypothesis in a balanced panel of 22 Indian states for the time period of 1980-81 to 2010-11 by applying nonparametric model setting in a panel framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study uses nonparametric and semi-parametric panel data methods to test the absolute and conditional convergence, respectively, and examines the income convergence using nonparametric panel data methods with state specific effects taken into consideration. These models are being estimated by the iterative process for a balanced panel of state wise per capita income and other conditioning variables for the time period of 1980-81 to 2010-11. For removing the fixed effects, the authors follow within transformation procedure according to the feasibility of the problem. Since convergence is estimated by regressing dependent variable on initial level of independent variable (as growth rate of income and per capita income in this case). So using usual transformation for removing the fixed effects is not feasible because by doing so the authors may end up with singular matrices on both sides of the regression model.

Findings

The results reject the null of parametric specification for both absolute as well as conditional convergence model. As to the outcome of the empirical analysis, the findings reveal that the Indian states are diverging in absolute sense and converging on conditional basis. Convergence happens to be consistent and conditional upon public expenditure, power generation share of primary and tertiary sector to Gross State Domestic Product.

Originality/value

The originality of the study is in its application of advanced methodology to highlight the model misspecifications while testing the convergence hypothesis in earlier literature.
Block-pulse operational matrix method for solving fractional Black-Scholes equation
Authors: Mehrdoust Farshid , Refahi Sheikhani Amir Hosein , Mashoof Mohammad , Hasanzadeh Sabahat
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate a European option using the fractional version of the Black-Scholes model.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors employ the block-pulse operational matrix algorithm to approximate the solution of the fractional Black-Scholes equation with the initial condition for a European option pricing problem.

Findings

The fractional derivative will be described in the Caputo sense in this paper. The authors show the accuracy and computational efficiency of the proposed algorithm through some numerical examples.

Originality/value

This is the first paper that considers an alternative algorithm for pricing a European option using the fractional Black-Scholes model.
Inflation, interest rate and output gap in the US economy: a vine copula modeling
Authors: Candido Osvaldo , Divino Jose Angelo
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between inflation, interest rate, and output gap in the US economy in the post Second World War period, without assuming any structure nor imposing any restriction on that relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply vine copula modeling to investigate asymmetry and tail behavior on both conditional and unconditional dependence among those variables. The dependence parameter is allowed to evolve over time according to a stochastic autoregressive processes. Additionally, a conditional expectation based on vine copula is used to analyze the conditional expectation of interest rate.

Findings

The results suggest that the joint distribution, both conditional and unconditional, of the interest rate and inflation is asymmetric to the left, while the pair interest rate and output gap have symmetrical distributions coupled with low persistence and high volatility. Besides the unquestionable evidence that the US monetary policy has been mostly focused on inflation stabilization, there is also indication of nonlinearity in the conditional expected interest rate and asymmetric behavior by the Federal Reserve in the long run.

Originality/value

The vine copula modeling allows for several forms of asymmetries and tail dependence, which is a flexible modeling strategy for multivariate distributions. Moreover, the conditional expectation implied by vine copulas is suitable to account for nonlinearity in the interest rate conditional on inflation and output gap.
Socially responsible mining using project stakeholder identification and management
Authors: Famiyeh Samuel
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to conduct an initial exploratory investigation to systematically identify and classify the stakeholders associated with the mining sector in West Africa into key and non-key stakeholders through the use of the comprehensive project stakeholder management tools and processes. The results can be used as an initial identification and classification of stakeholders associated with a typical mining project and can also be used as a basis for confirmation analysis to develop further knowledge and an improved understanding of the management of multiple stakeholders in mining sector projects.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory work used mine managers from West Africa, asking them to identify stakeholders that are of importance to a typical open pit mining project and also to make some objective assessments of their attitudes and influence of the stakeholders identified. From this, a stakeholder power/interest grid was developed to classify stakeholders into key and non-key stakeholders.

Findings

The findings present an initial exploratory result indicating that the key stakeholders for a mining project are the Environmental Protection Agency, Minerals Commission, Geological Survey Department, Member of Parliament, the Ministry in charge of mining, Forestry Commission, farmers, Lands Commission, non-governmental organizations, Department of Feeder Roads, traditional chiefs, district or municipal assembly and youth associations within the concession area.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited to only respondents working in the mining sector in three West African countries.

Practical implications

Practically, this study highlights for mining companies and operators, some preliminary understanding of stakeholders that are critical for engagements to be successful in their operations.

Social implications

This study, essentially, reveals the importance of the various stakeholder groups interested in a mining project and the level of influence.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the debate on project stakeholder management in the mining sector, especially from a developing country’s point of view.
Illuminating and optimising a three‐dimensional model of an oil shale seam and its volume distribution using the transient electromagnetic induction method, central part of Jordan
Authors: Abu Rajab Jafar Sadi , Al Tarazi Eid
Published: June 2017

The oil shale exploration program in Jordan is undertaking great activity in the domain of applied geophysical methods to evaluate bitumen‐bearing rock. In the study area, the bituminous marl or oil shale exhibits a rock type dominated by lithofacies layers composed of chalky limestone, marls, clayey marls, and phosphatic marls.

The study aims to present enhancements for oil shale seam detection using progressive interpretation from a one‐dimensional inversion to a three‐dimensional modelling and inversion of ground‐based transient electromagnetic data at an area of stressed geological layers.

The geophysical survey combined 58 transient electromagnetic sites to produce geoelectrical structures at different depth slices, and cross sections were used to characterise the horizon of the most likely sites for mining oil shale. The results show valuable information on the thickness of the oil shale seam at 3.7 Ωm, which is correlated to the geoelectrical layer between 2‐ and 4 ms transient time delays, and at depths ranging between 85 and 105 m. The 300 m penetrated depth of the transient electromagnetic soundings allows the resolution of the main geological units at narrow resistivity contrast and the distinction of the main geological structures that constrain the detection of the oil shale seam. This geoelectrical layer at different depth slices illustrates a localised oil shale setting and can be spatially correlated with an area bounded by fold and fault systems. Also, three‐dimensional modelling and inversion for synthetic and experimental data are introduced at the faulted area. The results show the limitations of oil shale imaging at a depth exceeding 130 m, which depends on the near‐surface resistivity layer, the low resistivity contrast of the main lithological units, and the degree of geological detail achieved at a suitable model's misfit value.
Functional groups, species and light interact with nutrient limitation during tropical rainforest sapling bottleneck
Authors: Chou Cleo B. , Hedin Lars O. , Pacala Stephen W.
Published: June 2017

Potential variability in nutrient limitation among tree size classes, functional groups and species calls for an integrated community‐ and ecosystem‐level perspective of lowland tropical rainforest nutrient limitation. In particular, canopy trees determine ecosystem nutrient conditions, but competitive success for nutrients and light during the sapling bottleneck determines canopy composition.

We conducted an in situ multi‐nutrient sapling fertilization experiment at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica, to determine how functional group identity, species identity and light availability can impact nutrient limitation of stem growth in three functional groups and nine species.

Despite high soil fertility, we found nutrient‐light limitation in two functional groups and four species. Unexpectedly, the nitrogen‐fixing (“N2 fixers”) and shade‐tolerant functional groups were significantly nutrient limited, while the light‐demanding functional group was not.

This was partially explained by species‐level variation in nutrient limitation within these functional groups, with only some species conforming to the prediction of stronger nutrient limitation in light demanders compared to shade‐tolerants.

Most surprisingly, we found strong nutrient limitation at low‐light levels in the N2 fixers (which were shade‐tolerant), but not in the shade‐tolerant non‐fixers. We hypothesize that the N2 fixers were actually nitrogen limited at low‐light levels because of their nitrogen‐rich leaves and the high carbon cost of their symbionts.

This finding suggests a highly shade‐tolerant, N2 fixation strategy, in addition to the perception that N2 fixation is mostly advantageous in high‐light environments during early and gap succession. The shade‐tolerant, N2 fixation strategy may be part of a sapling and canopy tree feedback, where the canopy N2 fixers enrich the soil N, enhancing growth of their shade‐tolerant saplings relative to non‐fixing competitors, enabling further canopy domination by shade‐tolerant N2 fixers, as seen at La Selva.

Synthesis. The pervasiveness of functional group‐ and species‐specific nutrient and light co‐limitation in our saplings indicates that these interactions likely play an important role in the dynamics of lowland tropical rainforest nutrient limitation, potentially via other such sapling and canopy tree feedbacks as the one hypothesized.
Opposite actions of urotensin II and relaxin‐2 on cellular expression of fibronectin in renal fibrosis: A preliminary experimental study
Authors: Cernaro Valeria , Medici Maria A , Bianco Federica , Santoro Domenico , Lacquaniti Antonio , Romeo Adolfo , Lucisano Silvia , Buemi Antoine , Buemi Michele
Published: June 2017

Our aim was to evaluate the role of urotensin II, urantide (urotensin II receptor antagonist) and relaxin‐2 on the cellular expression of fibronectin as a surrogate marker for renal fibrosis. We employed LLC‐PK1 renal tubular epithelial cells and assessed the influence on the fibrotic process of the above‐mentioned substances by using anti‐fibronectin antibodies in western blot analysis. The addition of urotensin II increased fibronectin expression. Urantide reduced the positivity for fibronectin caused by urotensin II (P<.05). The anti‐fibrotic action was more evident for relaxin‐2 (P<.01). Also in the model of TGF‐β1‐induced fibrosis, urantide and, to a greater extent, relaxin‐2 were able to significantly lessen fibronectin expression (respectively, P<.05 and P<.01). In conclusion, relaxin‐2 may reduce urotensin II‐induced renal fibrosis.
Dietetic intervention for inpatients on fluid‐only diets helps to achieve nutritional requirements
Authors: Deacon Sarah , Moran Natalie , Laskey‐Gilboy Bonnie , De Jonge Maree , Rothery Shonnel , Ahnon Kristina , Whiting Melissa , Emeto Theophilus I. , Pain Tilley
Published: June 2017

Aim

The present study aimed to assess whether dietetic intervention helps patients on fluid‐only diets to meet their energy and protein requirements. This topic has not been previously investigated.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental study of 57 patients receiving fluid‐only diets was conducted at The Townsville Hospital. The fluid consumption of participants was observed over 24 hours and was used to calculate total energy and protein intakes. The percentage of protein and energy requirements met was compared between patients receiving dietetic intervention and patients who were not.

Results

Patients receiving dietetic interventions met a higher percentage of their energy requirements (75.88) than the control group (18.10) based on median intakes (P < 0.001). Patients receiving dietetic intervention also met a higher percentage of their protein requirements (75.99) than the control group (13.80) based on median intakes (P < 0.001). Stratification for age, body mass index (BMI) and fluid diet type showed no change in effect.

Conclusions

This study shows that dietetic intervention enabled patients on fluid‐only diets to meet up to 80% more of their energy requirements and up to 95% more of their protein requirements. These results were consistent across age, BMI and fluid diet type. The significance of these differences has resulted in a change of clinical practice at the study hospital. All patients on fluid‐only diets for three days or longer are now blanket referred for dietetic intervention.
Green Pea and Garlic Puree Model Food Development for Thermal Pasteurization Process Quality Evaluation
Authors: Bornhorst Ellen R. , Tang Juming , Sablani Shyam S. , Barbosa‐Cánovas Gustavo V. , Liu Fang
Published: June 2017

Development and selection of model foods is a critical part of microwave thermal process development, simulation validation, and optimization. Previously developed model foods for pasteurization process evaluation utilized Maillard reaction products as the time–temperature integrators, which resulted in similar temperature sensitivity among the models. The aim of this research was to develop additional model foods based on different time–temperature integrators, determine their dielectric properties and color change kinetics, and validate the optimal model food in hot water and microwave‐assisted pasteurization processes. Color, quantified using a* value, was selected as the time–temperature indicator for green pea and garlic puree model foods. Results showed 915 MHz microwaves had a greater penetration depth into the green pea model food than the garlic. a* value reaction rates for the green pea model were approximately 4 times slower than in the garlic model food; slower reaction rates were preferred for the application of model food in this study, that is quality evaluation for a target process of 90 °C for 10 min at the cold spot. Pasteurization validation used the green pea model food and results showed that there were quantifiable differences between the color of the unheated control, hot water pasteurization, and microwave‐assisted thermal pasteurization system. Both model foods developed in this research could be utilized for quality assessment and optimization of various thermal pasteurization processes.
Nutrient Profiles and Volatile Odorous Compounds of Raw Milk After Exposure to Electron Beam Pasteurizing Doses
Authors: Ward Lindsay R. , Kerth Chris R. , Pillai Suresh D.
Published: June 2017

Raw milk is known to contain relatively high numbers of microorganisms, some of which include microbial pathogens. Electron beam (eBeam) processing is a nonthermal pasteurization food processing technology. The underlying hypothesis was that eBeam processing will not negatively influence the composition, nutrient content, and aroma profile of raw milk. Raw milk samples were exposed to eBeam doses of 1 and 2 kGy, since our studies had shown that 2 kGy is suitable for raw milk pasteurization. The untreated and eBeam‐treated raw milk samples were analyzed to detect changes in lactose, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, and calcium concentrations. The possible breakdown of casein and whey proteins and lipid oxidation were investigated along with the formation of volatile aroma compounds. Even though vitamin B2 showed a 31.6% decrease in concentration, the B2 content in eBeam‐pasteurized raw milk met all USDA nutritional guidelines. Even though there were no indications of lipid oxidation after the 2.0‐kGy eBeam treatment, there was lipid oxidation (58%) after 7 d of refrigerated storage. However, based on the GC‐olfactory analysis, the lipid oxidation did not necessarily result in the development of a wide variety of off‐odors.
Detection of dermatological abnormalities in the rheumatology clinic using a standardized screening exam
Authors: Wong Newton Wai Kwan , Towheed Tanveer Ezad , Hopman Wilma , Kirchhof Mark Gajda
Published: June 2017

Aim

To develop a standardized practical screening tool for rheumatologists to assess for underlying dermatological manifestations of rheumatic conditions.

Methods

A relevant screening tool was developed by consensus between dermatology and rheumatology authors. Patients visiting the general rheumatology clinic for routine care were systematically assessed based on the standardized screening tool.

Results

One hundred patients were recruited with 76 being female. The most prevalent rheumatic conditions seen in the clinic were rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The standardized integumentary assessment took a mean of 2.75 (SD 1.61) min. Most patients, 74%, reported no concerns with their hair or nails, while 60% reported no concerns with their skin. The majority of patients had one abnormality identified, 65%, and of those diagnoses, most affected the skin with 71% of patients having an identified skin abnormality, compared with the hair (10%) or nails (13%).

Conclusion

The standardized integumentary assessment tool can be successfully incorporated into routine clinical practice for rheumatologists without significant extension of consultation time and may detect relevant abnormalities important for diagnosis which may have been unnoticed by patients. It may encourage collaborative care and enhance clinical outcomes.
Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ‐binding motif is required to sustain testicular function on aging
Authors: Jeong Mi Gyeong , Song Hyuna , Shin Ji Hyun , Jeong Hana , Kim Hyo Kyeong , Hwang Eun Sook
Published: June 2017

Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ‐binding motif (TAZ) directly interacts with transcription factors and regulates their transcriptional activity. Extensive functional studies have shown that TAZ plays critical regulatory roles in stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival and also modulates the development of organs such as the lung, kidney, heart, and bone. Despite the importance of TAZ in stem cell maintenance, TAZ function has not yet been evaluated in spermatogenic stem cells of the male reproductive system. Here, we investigated the expression and functions of TAZ in mouse testis. TAZ was expressed in spermatogenic stem cells; however, its deficiency caused significant structural abnormalities, including atrophied tubules, widened interstitial space, and abnormal Leydig cell expansion, thereby resulting in lowered sperm counts and impaired fertility. Furthermore, TAZ deficiency increased the level of apoptosis and senescence in spermatogenic cells and Leydig cells upon aging. The expression of senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐βgal), secretory phenotypes, and cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors (p16, p19, and p21) significantly increased in the absence of TAZ. TAZ downregulation in testicular cells further increased SA‐βgal and p21 expression induced by oxidative stress, whereas TAZ overexpression decreased p21 induction and prevented senescence. Mechanistic studies showed that TAZ suppressed DNA‐binding activity of p53 through a direct interaction and thus attenuated p53‐induced p21 gene transcription. Our results suggested that TAZ may suppress apoptosis and premature senescence in spermatogenic cells by inhibiting the p53‐p21 signaling pathway, thus playing important roles in the maintenance and control of reproductive function.
Chronic Ethanol During Adolescence Impacts Corticolimbic Dendritic Spines and Behavior
Authors: Jury Nicholas J. , Pollack Gabrielle A. , Ward Meredith J. , Bezek Jessica L. , Ng Alexandra J. , Pinard Courtney R. , Bergstrom Hadley C. , Holmes Andrew
Published: June 2017

Background

Risk for alcohol use disorders (AUDs) in adulthood is linked to alcohol drinking during adolescence, but understanding of the neural and behavioral consequences of alcohol exposure during adolescence remains incomplete. Here, we examined the neurobehavioral impact of adolescent chronic intermittent EtOH (CIE) vapor exposure in mice.

Methods

C57BL/6J‐background Thy1‐EGFP mice were CIE‐exposed during adolescence or adulthood and examined, as adults, for alterations in the density and morphology of dendritic spines in infralimbic (IL) cortex, prelimbic (PL) cortex, and basolateral amygdala (BLA). In parallel, adolescent‐ and adult‐exposed C57BL/6J mice were tested as adults for 2‐bottle EtOH drinking, sensitivity to EtOH intoxication (loss of righting reflex [LORR]), blood EtOH clearance, and measures of operant responding for food reward.

Results

CIE during adolescence decreased IL neuronal spine density and increased the head width of relatively wide‐head IL and BLA spines, whereas CIE decreased head width of relatively narrow‐head BLA spines. Adolescents had higher EtOH consumption prior to CIE than adults, while CIE during adulthood, but not adolescence, increased EtOH consumption relative to pre‐CIE baseline. CIE produced a tolerance‐like decrease in LORR sensitivity to EtOH challenge, irrespective of the age at which mice received CIE exposure. Mice exposed to CIE during adolescence, but not adulthood, required more sessions than AIR controls to reliably respond for food reward on a fixed‐ratio (FR) 1, but not subsequent FR3, reinforcement schedule. On a progressive ratio reinforcement schedule, break point responding was higher in the adolescent‐ than the adult‐exposed mice, regardless of CIE. Finally, footshock punishment markedly suppressed responding for reward in all groups.

Conclusions

Exposure to CIE during adolescence altered dendritic spine density and morphology in IL and BLA neurons, in parallel with a limited set of behavioral alterations. Together, these data add to growing evidence that key corticolimbic circuits are vulnerable to the effects of alcohol during adolescence, with lasting, potentially detrimental, consequences for behavior.
Melatonin as a treatment for mood disorders: a systematic review
Authors: De Crescenzo F. , Lennox A. , Gibson J. C. , Cordey J. H. , Stockton S. , Cowen P. J. , Quested D. J.
Published: June 2017

Objective

Melatonin has been widely studied in the treatment of sleep disorders and evidence is accumulating on a possible role for melatonin influencing mood. Our aim was to determine the efficacy and acceptability of melatonin for mood disorders.

Method

We conducted a comprehensive systematic review of randomized clinical trials on patients with mood disorders, comparing melatonin to placebo.

Results

Eight clinical trials were included; one study in bipolar, three in unipolar depression and four in seasonal affective disorder. We have only a small study on patients with bipolar disorder, while we have more studies testing melatonin as an augmentation strategy for depressive episodes in major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. The acceptability and tolerability were good. We analyzed data from three trials on depressive episodes and found that the evidence for an effect of melatonin in improving mood symptoms is not significant (SMD = 0.37; 95% CI [−0.05, 0.37]; P = 0.09). The small sample size and the differences in methodology of the trials suggest that our results are based on data deriving from investigations occurring early in this field of study.

Conclusion

There is no evidence for an effect of melatonin on mood disorders, but the results are not conclusive and justify further research.
The Paediatric Cataract Register (PECARE): an overview of operated childhood cataract in Sweden and Denmark
Authors: Magnusson Gunilla , Haargaard Birgitte , Basit Saima , Lundvall Anna , Nyström Alf , Rosensvärd Annika , Tornqvist Kristina
Published: June 2017

Aim

To report basic epidemiological data concerning surgically treated childhood cataract in Sweden and Denmark.

Methods

Data were derived from the Paediatric Cataract Register (PECARE), a binational, web‐based surgical register representing Sweden and Denmark. All children operated before 8 years of age between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2013 were included. Age‐specific prevalence per 100 000 population was calculated.

Results

A total 574 operations in 213 boys (51.7%) and 199 girls (48.3%), altogether 412 children, were registered, the vast majority (n = 395/412; 95.9%) being individuals with congenital/infantile cataract. Of these 412, a total of 294 (147 boys and 147 girls) were Swedish and 118 (66 boys and 52 girls) were Danish. The age‐specific prevalence of operated cataract in Sweden was 31/100 000 and in Denmark 28/100 000. In 454 of 574 eyes (79.1%), the cataract was dense. Altogether, 266 of 574 (46.3%) were operated during the first year of life, 193 during the first 12 weeks representing 33.6% of all operations. A primary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation was done in altogether 411 of 574 eyes (71,6%). In total, 210 unilateral cataract operations (210/574; 36.6%) were performed. Persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) was present in 64 of 193 (33.1%) of those with a congenital unilateral cataract. In 84 individuals (84/395; 21.3%) with congenital or infantile cataract, a coexisting disorder was found.

Conclusion

The age‐specific binational prevalence of operated congenital/infantile cataract in Sweden and Denmark is 30/100 000. About half of the operations are performed within the first year of life, one‐third within the first 3 months. In our study population, a primary IOL was implanted in the majority of cases.
Myoendothelial coupling through Cx40 contributes to EDH‐induced vasodilation in murine renal arteries: evidence from experiments and modelling
Authors: Brasen J. C. , de Wit C. , Sorensen C. M.
Published: June 2017

Regulation of renal vascular resistance plays a major role in controlling arterial blood pressure. The endothelium participates in this regulation as endothelial derived hyperpolarization plays a significant role in smaller renal arteries and arterioles, but the exact mechanisms are still unknown.

Aim

To investigate the role of vascular gap junctions and potassium channels in the renal endothelial derived hyperpolarization.

Methods

In interlobar arteries from wild‐type and connexin40 knockout mice, we assessed the role of calcium‐activated small (SK) and intermediate (IK) conductance potassium channels. The role of inward rectifier potassium channels (Kir) and Na+/K+‐ATPases was evaluated as was the contribution from gap junctions. Mathematical models estimating diffusion of ions and electrical coupling in myoendothelial gap junctions were used to interpret the results.

Results

Lack of connexin40 significantly reduces renal endothelial hyperpolarization. Inhibition of SK and IK channels significantly attenuated renal EDH to a similar degree in wild‐type and knockout mice. Inhibition of Kir and Na+/K+‐ATPases affected the response in wild‐type and knockout mice but at different levels of stimulation. The model confirms that activation of endothelial SK and IK channels generates a hyperpolarizing current that enters the vascular smooth muscle cells. Also, extracellular potassium increases sufficiently to activate Kir and Na+/K+‐ATPases.

Conclusion

Renal endothelial hyperpolarization is mainly initiated by activation of IK and SK channels. The model shows that hyperpolarization can spread through myoendothelial gap junctions but enough potassium is released to activate Kir and Na+/K+‐ATPases. Reduced coupling seems to shift the signalling pathway towards release of potassium. However, an alternative pathway also exists and needs to be investigated.
Blood donor Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato seroprevalence and history of tick bites at a northern limit of the vector distribution
Authors: Hvidsten Dag , Mortensen Liisa , Straume Bjørn , Arsenovic Mirjana Grujic , Pedersen Anne‐Berit , Lyngås Gro , Gray Jeremy S. , Grude Nils
Published: June 2017

In order to study the antibody seroprevalence of the causal agent of Lyme borreliosis, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.), and the history of tick bites at a geographical distribution limit of Ixodes ricinus, we compared healthy blood donors in geographically extreme regions: the borreliosis‐endemic Vestfold County (59°N) and the region of northern Norway. Blood samples were screened using IgG/VlsE ELISA, and positive/borderline samples were confirmed using C6 ELISA and immunoblot assays. Also, donors completed a questionnaire consisting of several items including the places they have lived, and whether they owned any pets. The seroprevalence was 0.48% (5/1048) in northern Norway and 9.25% (48/519) in Vestfold County. Seven donors (of 1048) had experienced a single tick bite in the southern part of Nordland County (65°N) in northern Norway. This first study on B. burgdorferi s.l. antibody seroprevalence and tick bites on humans and pets in northern Norway showed that the seroprevalence of B. burgdorferi s.l. infection and the risk of tick bite in northern Norway are insignificant; the fact that only five positive IgG samples were detected underscores the very low background seroprevalence. These results suggest that so far I. ricinus has not expanded north of the previously established geographical distribution limit.
Characteristics of depression among offspring at high and low familial risk of bipolar disorder
Authors: Diler Rasim Somer , Goldstein Tina R. , Hafeman Danella , Rooks Brian Thomas , Sakolsky Dara , Goldstein Benjamin I. , Monk Kelly , Hickey Mary Beth , Axelson David , Iyengar Satish , Birmaher Boris
Published: June 2017

Objectives

Having a parent with bipolar disorder (BP) is a very strong risk factor for developing BP. Similarly, depression among youth is a clinical risk factor for subsequent BP. We evaluated whether mood symptomatology in depressed youth is different between those at high and low familial risk to develop BP.

Methods

The most severe major depressive episode in BP offspring (N=61) and community control offspring (N=20) was evaluated using expanded depression and mania rating scales derived from the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for Children Present Version. The results were adjusted for any between‐group significant demographic differences and for multiple comparisons.

Results

The severity of depressive symptoms and the percentage of offspring with severe depressive symptoms, especially atypical depressive features, were significantly higher in the depressed offspring of BP parents compared to the depressed controls (Ps<.05). The depressive symptoms were helpful to identify a high‐risk group (e.g., odds ratio [OR] for hypersomnia: 22.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3‐404, P=.04). In addition, there were significantly more depressed offspring of BP parents with subsyndromal manic symptoms than controls (52.5% vs 20%, OR: 4.2, 95% CI: 1.2‐14.7, P<.01).

Conclusions

Depressed BP offspring had more severe depression including atypical depressive symptoms, and were more likely to have subsyndromal mixed manic symptoms than depressed control offspring. Prospective studies to evaluate whether these youth are at high risk to develop BP are warranted. If replicated, the results of this study have important clinical (e.g., treatment of depression in depressed offspring of BP parents) and research implications.
Perception of emotional climate in a revolution: Test of a multistage theory of revolution in the Tunisian context
Authors: Rimé Bernard , Yzerbyt Vincent , Mahjoub Abdelwahab
Published: June 2017

Participation in social movements and collective action depends upon people's capacity to perceive their societal context. We examined this question in the context of Arab Spring revolutions. In a classic theory of revolution highlighting the role of collective emotions, Brinton (1938) claimed that revolutions, far from chaos, proceed in an orderly sequence involving four stages: euphoria, degradation, terror, and restoration. The emotional climate (EC) as perceived by ordinary Tunisian citizens (2,699 women and 3,816 men) was measured during the 4 years of the Tunisian revolution. A quadratic pattern of perceived EC measures over time provided strong support to Brinton's model. In addition, three different analyses suggested the presence of four distinct stages in the evolution of perceived EC. Third, the socio‐political developments in Tunisia during the four stages proved entirely consistent with both Brinton's theoretical model and the perceived EC indicators. Finally, social identification proved closely related to the temporal evolution of positive EC scores. In sum, data from this study not only lend support to the views put forth in an heretofore untested classic theory of revolution but also demonstrate that psychosocial measurements can validly monitor a major process of socio‐political transformation.
Mild–moderate congenital hearing loss: secular trends in outcomes across four systems of detection
Authors: Carew P. , Mensah F. K. , Rance G. , Flynn T. , Poulakis Z. , Wake M.
Published: June 2017

Background

Universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) targets moderate or greater hearing loss. However, UNHS also frequently detects children with mild loss that results in many receiving early treatment. The benefits of this approach are not yet established. We aimed to (i) compare language and psychosocial outcomes between four hearing loss detection systems for children aged 5–8 years with congenital mild–moderate hearing loss; (ii) determine whether age of detection predicts outcomes; and (iii) compare outcomes between children identified via well‐established UNHS and the general population.

Methods

Linear regression adjusted for potential confounding factors was used throughout. Via a quasi‐experimental design, language and psychosocial outcomes were compared across four population‐based Australian systems of hearing loss detection: opportunistic detection, born 1991–1993, n = 50; universal risk factor referral, born 2003–2005, n = 34; newly established UNHS, born 2003–2005, n = 41; and well‐established UNHS, born 2007–2010, n = 21. In pooled analyses, we examined whether age of detection predicted outcomes. Outcomes were similarly compared between the current well‐established UNHS system and typically developing children in the Early Language in Victoria Study, born 2003, n = 1217.

Results

Age at diagnosis and hearing aid fitting fell steadily across the four systems. For moderate losses, mean expressive language (P for trend .05) and receptive vocabulary (P for trend .06) improved across the four systems, but benefit was not obvious for mild losses. In pooled analyses, diagnosis before age six months predicted better language outcomes for moderate losses. Children with mild–moderate losses exposed to well‐established UNHS continue to experience expressive language scores well below children in the general population (adjusted mean difference −8.9 points, 95% CI −14.7 to −3.1).

Conclusions

Treatment arising from UNHS appears to be clearly benefitting children with moderate hearing losses. However, rigorous trials are needed to quantify benefits, versus costs and potential harms, of early aiding of children with mild losses.
Peer Influence Via Instagram: Effects on Brain and Behavior in Adolescence and Young Adulthood
Authors: Sherman Lauren E. , Greenfield Patricia M. , Hernandez Leanna M. , Dapretto Mirella
Published: June 2017

Mobile social media often feature the ability to “Like” content posted by others. This study examined the effect of Likes on youths' neural and behavioral responses to photographs. High school and college students (N = 61, ages 13–21) viewed theirs and others' Instagram photographs while undergoing functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). Participants more often Liked photographs that appeared to have received many (vs. few) Likes. Popular photographs elicited greater activity in multiple brain regions, including the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), a hub of the brain's reward circuitry. NAcc responsivity increased with age for high school but not college students. When viewing images depicting risk‐taking (vs. nonrisky photographs), high school students, but not college students, showed decreased activation of neural regions implicated in cognitive control.
Hidden biodiversity: total evidence phylogenetics and evolution of morphological traits in a highly diverse lineage of endogean ground beetles,TyphlocharisDieck, 1869 (Carabidae, Trechinae, Anillini)
Authors: Pérez‐González Sergio , Andújar Carmelo , Zaballos Juan Pérez
Published: June 2017

Typhlocharisis the most diverse eyeless endogean ground beetle genus known to date, with 62 species all endemic to the West Mediterranean region. The lineage is characterized by a conservative and singular body plan within Carabidae that contrasts with a high morphological diversity in many traits. We provide an exhaustive phylogeny of the lineage through the study of 92 morphological characters from all 62 described species and 45 potential new species from 70 additional populations, and the combination of morphological and available molecular data, in the first total evidence phylogenetic approach for a highly diverse endogean lineage. We tracked the evolution of morphological traits over the obtained phylogenies. Results suggest eight morphologically distinct clades, which do not correspond to the species groups proposed formerly. Ancestral state reconstructions and phylogenetic signal analyses of morphological traits revealed that some of the previously key characters to the classification ofTyphlocharis, such as the umbilicate series or the apical denticles of elytra, are highly homoplasic, whereas other characters show stronger phylogenetic signal, including structures in the antennae, gula, pronotum and last abdominal ventrite. This evidence supports the split ofTyphlocharisinto three genera:Lusotyphlusgen. nov.;TyphlocharisDieck, 1869 andMicrocharidiusCoiffait, 1969 (revalidated), forming the subtribe Typhlocharina Jeanne, 1973.
Polyethylene glycol‐induced motor recovery after total spinal transection in rats
Authors: Ren Shuai , Liu Ze‐Han , Wu Qiong , Fu Kuang , Wu Jun , Hou Li‐Ting , Li Ming , Zhao Xin , Miao Qing , Zhao Yun‐Long , Wang Sheng‐Yu , Xue Yan , Xue Zhen , Guo Ya‐Shan , Canavero Sergio , Ren Xiao‐Ping
Published: June 2017

Aims

Despite more than a century of research, spinal paralysis remains untreatable via biological means. A new understanding of spinal cord physiology and the introduction of membrane fusogens have provided new hope that a biological cure may soon become available. However, proof is needed from adequately powered animal studies.

Methods and results

Two groups of rats (n=9, study group, n=6 controls) were submitted to complete transection of the dorsal cord at T10. The animals were randomized to receive either saline or polyethylene glycol (PEG) in situ. After 4 weeks, the treated group had recovered ambulation vs none in the control group (BBB scores; P=.0145). One control died. All animals were studied with somatosensory‐evoked potentials (SSEP) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). SSEP recovered postoperatively only in PEG‐treated rats. At study end, DTI showed disappearance of the transection gap in the treated animals vs an enduring gap in controls (fractional anisotropy/FA at level: P=.0008).

Conclusions

We show for the first time in an adequately powered study that the paralysis attendant to a complete transection of the spinal cord can be reversed. This opens the path to a severance‐reapposition cure of spinal paralysis, in which the injured segment is excised and the two stumps approximated after vertebrectomy/diskectomies.
Defining low anterior resection syndrome: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Keane C. , Wells C. , O'Grady G. , Bissett I. P.
Published: June 2017

Aim

There is increasing awareness of the poor functional outcome suffered by many patients after sphincter‐preserving rectal resection, termed ‘low anterior resection syndrome’ (LARS). There is no consensus definition of LARS and varying instruments have been employed to measure functional outcome, complicating research into prevalence, contributing factors and potential therapies. We therefore aimed to describe the instruments and outcome measures used in studies of bowel dysfunction after low anterior resection and identify major themes used in the assessment of LARS.

Method

A systematic review of the literature was performed for studies published between 1986 and 2016. The instruments and outcome measures used to report bowel function after low anterior resection were extracted and their frequency of use calculated.

Results

The search revealed 128 eligible studies. These employed 18 instruments, over 30 symptoms, and follow‐up time periods from 4 weeks to 14.6 years. The most frequent follow‐up period was 12 months (48%). The most frequently reported outcomes were incontinence (97%), stool frequency (80%), urgency (67%), evacuatory dysfunction (47%), gas–stool discrimination (34%) and a measure of quality of life (80%). Faecal incontinence scoring systems were used frequently. The LARS score and the Bowel Function Instrument (BFI) were used in only nine studies.

Conclusion

LARS is common, but there is substantial variation in the reporting of functional outcomes after low anterior resection. Most studies have focused on incontinence, omitting other symptoms that correlate with patients’ quality of life. To improve and standardize research into LARS, a consensus definition should be developed, and these findings should inform this goal.
High stoma prevalence and stoma reversal complications following anterior resection for rectal cancer: a population‐based multicentre study
Authors: Holmgren K. , Kverneng Hultberg D. , Haapamäki M. M. , Matthiessen P. , Rutegård J. , Rutegård M.
Published: June 2017

Aim

Fashioning a defunctioning stoma is common when performing an anterior resection for rectal cancer in order to avoid and mitigate the consequences of an anastomotic leakage. We investigated the permanent stoma prevalence, factors influencing stoma outcome and complication rates following stoma reversal surgery.

Method

Patients who had undergone an anterior resection for rectal cancer between 2007 and 2013 in the northern healthcare region were identified using the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry and were followed until the end of 2014 regarding stoma outcome. Data were retrieved by a review of medical records. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate predefined risk factors for stoma permanence. Risk factors for non‐reversal of a defunctioning stoma were also analysed, using Cox proportional‐hazards regression.

Results

A total of 316 patients who underwent anterior resection were included, of whom 274 (87%) were defunctioned primarily. At the end of the follow‐up period 24% had a permanent stoma, and 9% of patients who underwent reversal of a stoma experienced major complications requiring a return to theatre, need for intensive care or mortality. Anastomotic leakage and tumour Stage IV were significant risk factors for stoma permanence. In this series, partial mesorectal excision correlated with a stoma‐free outcome. Non‐reversal was considerably more prevalent among patients with leakage and Stage IV; Stage III patients at first had a decreased reversal rate, which increased after the initial year of surgery.

Conclusion

Stoma permanence is common after anterior resection, while anastomotic leakage and advanced tumour stage decrease the chances of a stoma‐free outcome. Stoma reversal surgery entails a significant risk of major complications.
Dermatopathology education in the era of modern technology
Authors: Shahriari Neda , Grant‐Kels Jane , Murphy Michael J.
Published: June 2017

Continuing technological advances are inevitably impacting the study and practice of dermatopathology (DP). We are seeing the transition from glass slide microscopy to virtual microscopy, which is serving both as an accessible educational medium for medical students, residents and fellows in the form of online databases and atlases, as well as a research tool to better inform us regarding the development of visual diagnostic expertise. Expansion in mobile technology is simplifying slide image attainment and providing greater opportunities for phone‐ and tablet‐based microscopy, including teledermatopathology instruction and consultation in resource‐poor areas with lack of specialists. Easily accessible mobile and computer‐based applications (“apps”), including myDermPath and Clearpath, are providing an interactive medium for DP instruction. The Internet and social networking sites are enabling rapid global communication of DP information and image‐sharing, promoting collaborative diagnostic research and scholastic endeavors.