bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the elastic response of organic‐rich shale using nanoscale measurements and homogenisation methods
Authors: Goodarzi M. , Rouainia M. , Aplin A.C. , Cubillas P. , de Block M.
Published: January 2017

Determination of the mechanical response of shales through experimental procedures is a practical challenge due to their heterogeneity and the practical difficulties of retrieving good‐quality core samples. Here, we investigate the possibility of using multi‐scale homogenisation techniques to predict the macroscopic mechanical response of shales based on quantitative mineralogical descriptions. We use the novel PeakForce Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping technique to generate high‐resolution mechanical images of shales, allowing the response of porous clay, organic matter, and mineral inclusions to be measured at the nanoscale. These observations support some of the assumptions previously made in the use of homogenisation methods to estimate the elastic properties of shale and also earlier estimates of the mechanical properties of organic matter. We evaluate the applicability of homogenisation techniques against measured elastic responses of organic‐rich shales, partly from published data and also from new indentation tests carried out in this work. Comparison of experimental values of the elastic constants of shale samples with those predicted by homogenisation methods showed that almost all predictions were within the standard deviation of experimental data. This suggests that the homogenisation approach is a useful way of estimating the elastic and mechanical properties of shales in situations where conventional rock mechanics test data cannot be measured.
Biological Flora of the British Isles: Milium effusum
Authors: De Frenne Pieter , Brunet Jörg , Cougnon Mathias , Decocq Guillaume , Graae Bente J. , Hagenblad Jenny , Hermy Martin , Kolb Annette , Lemke Isgard H. , Ma Shiyu , Orczewska Anna , Plue Jan , Vranckx Guy , Wulf Monika , Verheyen Kris
Published: January 2017

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Milium effusum L. (Wood Millet) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history, and conservation.

The grass Milium effusum is a common species of mature woodland in central and southern England, but is less common in the wetter parts of northern England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. World‐wide, the species is native to many temperate, boreal, subarctic and subalpine parts of the northern hemisphere: from eastern North America across most of Europe (excluding Mediterranean climates) to the Ural Mountains and Black Sea, extending eastwards to the Himalaya, Korea and Japan.

Wood Millet is a shade‐tolerant, relatively tall grass (up to 1·8 m) producing up to 700 caryopses per individual. It is characteristic of temperate deciduous woodland, but can also occur in other woodland and forest types and even in scrub, alpine meadows, along railways and roads, and on rocks. In woods, it is one of the most conspicuous plants of the herb layer in the early summer after the disappearance of spring flowering species. While the species is generally considered an ancient woodland indicator in England and western Europe, it is also known to colonize secondary, post‐agricultural forests relatively rapidly in other areas such as Denmark, southern Sweden and Poland.

The species has a wide amplitude in terms of soil acidity and nutrient availability, but predominantly grows on soils of intermediate soil fertility and soil pH and with high organic matter concentration. However, M. effusum can tolerate large quantities of tree‐leaf litter on the forest floor and is able to grow on very acidic soils.

Changes in land use, climate, densities of large herbivores and atmospheric deposition of nitrogen are having effects on populations of Wood Millet. Significant responses of the life‐history traits and population characteristics have been detected in response to environmental variation and to experimental treatments of temperature, nutrients, light and acidity. In many of its habitats across its range, M. effusum is currently becoming more frequent. During the last century, its mean elevation of occurrence in upland areas of Europe has also increased by several hundreds of metres. Typically, management actions are directed towards the conservation of its main habitat type (e.g. ancient woodlands of the Milio‐Fagetum association) rather than to the species specifically.
Speech production in 3‐year‐old internationally adopted children with unilateral cleft lip and palate
Authors: Larsson AnnaKarin , Schölin Johnna , Mark Hans , Jönsson Radi , Persson Christina
Published: January 2017

Background

In the last decade, a large number of children with cleft lip and palate have been adopted to Sweden. A majority of the children were born in China and they usually arrive in Sweden with an unoperated palate. There is currently a lack of knowledge regarding speech and articulation development in this group of children, who also have to deal with a late first language switch.

Aims

To study consonant proficiency in 3‐year‐old internationally adopted children with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) compared with peers with UCLP born in Sweden. Also to study the type and frequency of consonant errors and to perceptually compare velopharyngeal competence between the groups.

Methods & Procedures

Thirty‐two children born between 2006 and 2010 with UCLP participated in the study—14 adopted from China and 18 children born in Sweden. Both groups were treated by the same cleft palate team. Audio recordings at 3 years of age were perceptually analysed by blinded listeners. Consonant proficiency was measured via per cent consonants correct adjusted for age (PCC‐A), per cent correct manners (PCM) and per cent correct places (PCP). The prevalence of audible nasal air leakage and velopharyngeal competence were judged and compared between groups. The type and frequencies of consonant errors related to place and manner of articulation were also analysed.

Outcomes & Results

The internationally adopted children had significantly fewer correct consonants compared with the Swedish‐born children. This was true for PCC‐A, PCP and PCM. This group also had significantly higher prevalence of glottal stops/fricatives and deleted target consonants more often. Also the internationally adopted children had a higher prevalence of incompetent velopharyngeal function. The only outcome variable with similar results in the groups was audible nasal air leakage.

Conclusions & Implications

The present study indicated that there were significant differences regarding consonant proficiency and velopharyngeal competence between internationally adopted children with a UCLP and their Swedish‐born peers with UCLP at the age of 3 years. Internationally adopted children with UCLP should be considered an at risk group for a higher prevalence of speech difficulties than non‐adoptees. Thus, it is particularly important to follow this group of children over time. Longitudinal studies of speech and language development in internationally adopted children with UCLP are needed.
Modelling gesture use and early language development in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Manwaring Stacy S. , Mead Danielle L. , Swineford Lauren , Thurm Audrey
Published: January 2017

Background

Nonverbal communication abilities, including gesture use, are impaired in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, little is known about how common gestures may influence or be influenced by other areas of development.

Aims

To examine the relationships between gesture, fine motor and language in young children with ASD compared with a comparison group using multiple measures and methods in a structural equation modelling framework.

Methods & Procedures

Participants included 110 children with ASD and a non‐ASD comparison group of 87 children (that included children with developmental delays (DD) or typical development (TD)), from 12 to 48 months of age. A construct of gesture use as measured by the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales—Developmental Profile Caregiver Questionnaire (CQ) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), as well as fine motor from the Mullen Scales of Early Learning and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales—II (VABS‐II) was examined using second‐order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). A series of structural equation models then examined concurrent relationships between the aforementioned latent gesture construct and expressive and receptive language. A series of hierarchical regression analyses was run in a subsample of 36 children with ASD with longitudinal data to determine how gesture factor scores predicted later language outcomes.

Outcomes & Results

Across study groups, the gesture CFA model with indicators of gesture use from both the CQ (parent‐reported) and ADOS (direct observation), and measures of fine motor provided good fit with all indicators significantly and strongly loading onto one gesture factor. This model of gesture use, controlling for age, was found to correlate strongly with concurrent expressive and receptive language. The correlations between gestures and concurrent language were similar in magnitude in both the ASD and non‐ASD groups. In the longitudinal subsample of children with ASD, gestures at time 1 predicted later receptive (but not expressive) language outcomes on the VABS‐II, after controlling for nonverbal cognition, ASD severity, age and time 1 language.

Conclusions & Implications

This study extends research on the relationship between nonverbal communication and language by supporting the idea of an underlying construct of gesture use that includes fine motor ability and relates to language in young children with ASD. This further supports theories espousing developmental influences of motor and nonverbal communication strategies as important in early language learning.
Permeability shapes bacterial communities in sublittoral surface sediments
Authors: Probandt D. , Knittel K. , Tegetmeyer H. E. , Ahmerkamp S. , Holtappels M. , Amann R.
Published: January 2017

The first interaction of water column‐derived organic matter with benthic microbial communities takes place in surface sediments which are acting as biological filters catalyzing central steps of elemental cycling. Here we analyzed the bacterial diversity and community structure of sediment top layers at seven sites in the North Sea where sediment properties ranged from coarse‐grained and highly permeable to fine‐grained and impermeable. Bacterial communities in surface sediments were richer, more even and significantly different from communities in bottom waters as revealed by Illumina tag sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. Sediment permeability had a clear influence on community composition which was confirmed by CARD‐FISH. Sulfate‐reducing Desulfobacteraceae (2–5% of total cells), Flavobacteriaceae (3–5%) were more abundant in impermeable than in highly permeable sediments where acidobacterial Sva0725 dominated (11–15%). Myxobacterial Sandaracinaceae were most abundant in medium permeable sediments (3–7%). Woeseiaceae/JTB255 and Planctomycetes were major groups in all sediments (4–6%, 8–22%). Planctomycetes were highly diverse and branched throughout the phylum. We propose Planctomycetes as key bacteria for degradation of high molecular weight compounds and recalcitrant material entering surface sediments from the water column. Benthic Flavobacteriaceae likely have restricted capabilities for macromolecule degradation and might profit with Sandaracinaceae and Acidobacteria from low molecular weight compounds.
Ultrastructure of ellipsoidal magnetotactic multicellular prokaryotes depicts their complex assemblage and cellular polarity in the context of magnetotaxis
Authors: Leão Pedro , Chen Yi‐Ran , Abreu Fernanda , Wang Mingling , Zhang Wei‐Jia , Zhou Ke , Xiao Tian , Wu Long‐Fei , Lins Ulysses
Published: January 2017

Magnetotactic multicellular prokaryotes (MMPs) consist of unique microorganisms formed by genetically identical Gram‐negative bacterial that live as a single individual capable of producing magnetic nano‐particles called magnetosomes. Two distinct morphotypes of MMPs are known: spherical MMPs (sMMPs) and ellipsoidal MMPs (eMMPs). sMMPs have been extensively characterized, but less information exists for eMMPs. Here, we report the ultrastructure and organization as well as gene clusters responsible for magnetosome and flagella biosynthesis in the magnetite magnetosome producer eMMPCandidatusMagnetananas rongchenensis. Transmission electron microscopy and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB‐SEM) 3D reconstruction reveal that cells with a conspicuous core‐periphery polarity were organized around a central space. Magnetosomes were organized in multiple chains aligned along the periphery of each cell. In the partially sequenced genome, magnetite‐relatedmamABgene andmadgene clusters were identified. Two cell morphologies were detected: irregular elliptical conical ‘frustum‐like’ (IECF) cells and H‐shaped cells. IECF cells merge to form H‐shaped cells indicating a more complex structure and possibly a distinct evolutionary position of eMMPs when compared with sMMPs considering multicellularity.
When Is a Gerrymander Not a Gerrymander: Who Benefits and Who Loses from the Changed Rules for Defining Parliamentary Constituencies?
Authors: Johnston Ron , Rossiter David , Pattie Charles
Published: January 2017

Members of the British Labour party have, not for the first time, criticised the Boundary Commissions’ proposals for new constituency boundaries as gerrymandering. This represents a misuse of the term: the Commissions have produced recommended constituencies in the context of new rules for such redistributions that give precedence to equality of electorates across all seats and the boundaries of those constituencies have been defined without any reference to the likely electoral consequences. The Conservatives, who were responsible for the change in the rules to emphasise electoral equality, wanted to remove a decades‐long Labour advantage in the translation of votes into seats because of variations in constituency size, and the Commissions’ implementation of those rules has achieved that. A Labour advantage has been removed but not replaced by a Conservative advantage: in terms of electoral equality between the two, the playing field has been levelled. Labour's claim to have been disadvantaged by decisions on the electoral register is also examined; the disadvantage is probably only small.
Wonderful and wild world of women's health
Authors: Thorp John
Published: January 2017

Deputy Editor‐in‐Chief, Dr John Thorp, discusses his top articles from this issue in an audio podcast available at: https://soundcloud.com/bjog/february-editors-choice-2017.
Painful sex (dyspareunia) in women: prevalence and associated factors in a British population probability survey
Authors: Mitchell KR , Geary R , Graham CA , Datta J , Wellings K , Sonnenberg P , Field N , Nunns D , Bancroft J , Jones KG , Johnson AM , Mercer CH
Published: January 2017

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of painful sex among women in Britain, and to explore associated sexual, relationship and health factors that should be considered in assessment.

Design

Multi‐stage, clustered and stratified population probability sample survey, using computer‐assisted self‐interview. Sample frame was the British Postcode Address File.

Setting

Participants interviewed at home between 2010 and 2012.

Sample

A total of 15 162 adults aged 16–74 years (8869 women). Data reported from 6669 sexually active women.

Methods

Age‐adjusted logistic regressions to examine associations between painful sex and indicators of sexual, relational, mental and physical health.

Main outcome measure

Physical pain as a result of sex for ≥3 months in the past year, plus measures of symptom severity.

Results

Painful sex was reported by 7.5% (95% CI 6.7–8.3) of sexually active women, of whom one‐quarter experienced symptoms very often or always, for ≥6 months, and causing distress. Reporting painful sex was strongly associated with other sexual function problems, notably vaginal dryness (age adjusted odds ratio 7.9; 6.17–10.12), anxiety about sex (6.34; 4.76–8.46) and lacking enjoyment in sex (6.12; 4.81–7.79). It was associated with sexual relationship factors [such as not sharing same level of interest in sex (2.56; 1.97–3.33)], as well as with adverse experiences such as non‐volitional sex (2.17; 1.68–2.80). Associations were also found with measures of psychological and physical health, including depressive symptoms (1.68; 1.28–2.21).

Conclusion

Painful sex is reported by a sizeable minority of women in Britain. Health professionals should be supported to undertake holistic assessment and treatment which takes account of the sexual, relationship and health context of symptoms.

Tweetable abstract

Painful sex—reported by 7.5% of women in Britain—is linked to poorer sexual, physical, relational and mental health.
Improving the clinical management of women with borderline tumours: a recurrence risk scoring system from a French multicentre study
Authors: Ouldamer L , Bendifallah S , Nikpayam M , Body G , Fritel X , Uzan C , Morice P , Daraï E , Ballester M
Published: January 2017

Objective

To develop a risk scoring system (RSS) for predicting recurrence in women with borderline ovarian tumours (BOTs).

Design

Cohort study of women with BOTs.

Setting

French multicentre tertiary care centres.

Population

A cohort of 360 women with BOTs who received primary surgical treatment between January 2000 and December 2013.

Methods

Clinical and pathological factors affecting recurrence in women with BOTs.

Main outcome measure

The development of a model for the prediction of recurrence in women with BOTs.

Results

Overall the recurrence rate was 20.0% (72/360). Recurrence was associated with five variables: age < 45 years; preoperative serum tumour marker CA125 > 150 IU/mL; a serous histological subtype; International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage other than IA; and ovarian surgery other than bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy (BSO; i.e. cystectomy and unilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy). These variables were included in the RSS and assigned scores ranging from 0 to 6. The discrimination of the RSS was 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.79–0.85). A total score of 8 points corresponded to the optimal threshold of the RSS, with a rate of recurrence of 11.8% (35/297) and 58.7% (37/63) for women at low risk (<8 points) and women at high risk (≥8 points), respectively. The diagnostic accuracy was 85.0%.

Conclusions

This study shows that the risk of BOT recurrence can be accurately predicted so that women at high risk can benefit from adapted surgical treatment.

Tweetable abstract

Our RSS permitted women with BOTs at low risk to be distinguished from women with BOTs at high risk of recurrence.
Origin, Analytical Characterization, and Use of Human Odor in Forensics
Authors: Cuzuel Vincent , Cognon Guillaume , Rivals Isabelle , Sauleau Charles , Heulard François , Thiébaut Didier , Vial Jérôme
Published: January 2017

Developing a strategy to characterize the odor prints of individuals should be relevant to support identification obtained using dogs in courts of justice. This article proposes an overview of the techniques used for the forensic profiling of human odor. After reviewing the origin of human odor—both genetic and physiological—the different analytical steps from sample collection to statistical data processing are presented. The first challenge is the collection of odor, whether by direct sampling with polymer patches, cotton gauze, etc., or indirect sampling with devices like Scent Transfer Unit. Then, analytical techniques are presented. Analyses are commonly performed with gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. As they yield large amounts of data, advanced statistical tools are needed to provide efficient and reliable data processing, which is essential to give more probative value to information.
Comparing the Scoring of Human Decomposition from Digital Images to Scoring Using On‐site Observations
Authors: Dabbs Gretchen R. , Bytheway Joan A. , Connor Melissa
Published: January 2017

When in forensic casework or empirical research in‐person assessment of human decomposition is not possible, the sensible substitution is color photographic images. To date, no research has confirmed the utility of color photographic images as a proxy for in situ observation of the level of decomposition. Sixteen observers scored photographs of 13 human cadavers in varying decomposition stages (PMI 2–186 days) using the Total Body Score system (total n = 929 observations). The on‐site TBS was compared with recorded observations from digital color images using a paired samples t‐test. The average difference between on‐site and photographic observations was −0.20 (t = −1.679, df = 928, p = 0.094). Individually, only two observers, both students with <1 year of experience, demonstrated TBS statistically significantly different than the on‐site value, suggesting that with experience, observations of human decomposition based on digital images can be substituted for assessments based on observation of the corpse in situ, when necessary.
Flail Chest Following Failed Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Thompson Melissa , Langlois Neil E.I. , Byard Roger W.
Published: January 2017

Following the death of a woman with blunt force chest trauma, the question was asked how common was the finding at autopsy of a flail chest in decedents after failed cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It was suggested in court that this was an uncommon occurrence. To address this issue, autopsy cases in adults (>18 years) with rib fractures attributable to cardiopulmonary resuscitation were taken from the files of Forensic Science SA over a 7‐year period from 2008 to 2014. Flail chest injuries were defined as those arising from fractures at two sites in at least three consecutive ribs. From 236 cases with rib fractures attributed to resuscitation, a total of 43 flail chest injuries were found in 35 cases (14.8%). The majority occurred in the 60‐79‐year‐old age group. These data suggest that flail chest injuries are a more common sequelae of cardiopulmonary resuscitation than has been previously appreciated in autopsy cases, particularly in the elderly.
Use of an Automated Nested Multiplex Respiratory Pathogen PCR Panel Postmortem in the Pediatric Forensic Setting
Authors: Baker Tiffany , Schandl Cynthia , Presnell Susan Erin , Madory James , Nolte Frederick S. , Batalis Nicholas
Published: January 2017

Respiratory pathogens have been detected in forensic investigations using multiple techniques; however, no study has examined the use of automated, nested, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (ANM‐PCR), commonly used in living patients, in the forensic setting. This retrospective study assessed the utility of ANM‐PCR in detecting respiratory pathogens in the pediatric forensic setting. Respiratory samples from 35 cases were tested for up to 20 respiratory pathogens. 51.4% of these cases yielded a positive ANM‐PCR result, 20% of which were considered the cause of or contributory to death. The most commonly detected pathogens were rhinovirus/enterovirus and respiratory syncytial virus, and these were the only pathogens determined to play a significant role in cause of death. The sampled sites and postmortem intervals tested did not affect the likelihood of a positive or negative test. ANM‐PCR panels are effective, affordable, and rapid ancillary tools in evaluating cause of death in the forensic pediatric population.
Raman Microspectroscopic Mapping: A Tool for Identification of Fused Materials in Fire Debris
Authors: Kerr Tanya J. , Myers Leary , Duncan Keith L.
Published: January 2017

Examination of fire debris can provide information about the types of materials which were present at the time of the fire to give insights for fire scene reconstruction and understanding compartment fire dynamics. This paper demonstrates the ability of Raman spectroscopy for material identification postfire in complex situations, such as the production of fused masses during fire dropdown. A validated Raman spectral library is combined with Raman mapping in three fire case studies, to determine the individual materials in the fused masses formed. The case studies accessed material combinations of several common polymers. Raman mapping was carried out on a 10 μm × 10 μm square of the masses. Material identification using this technique ranged from a high of 85% match to a low of 40% match. This work demonstrated that complex masses found in the fire debris can be resolved into the individual material components for identification and spatial distribution.
Response to rearing in laboratory of the xylophagous grape pest, Xylotrechus arvicola (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
Authors: Rodríguez‐González Álvaro , Mayo Sara , González‐López Óscar , Peláez Horacio J. , Casquero Pedro A.
Published: January 2017

Xylotrechus arvicola (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is an important pest in vineyards (Vitis vinifera) in the main Iberian wine‐producing regions. Larvae were reared with Semi‐Synthetic Iglesias (SSI) diet over 27 months and two generations in the laboratory. Larval mortality was highest during the first (49.49 %) and second (9.38 %) month of rearing, increasing to 50.52 % during the first month if F2 reared larvae were obtained from an F1 adult female obtained in laboratory. The diet had sufficient nutrients to enable the pest to complete its life cycle within nine months, with F1 larval viability ranging from 23.49 % to 27.97 % and F2 larval viability reduced to 2.07 %. However, the diet did not allow for the completion of additional life cycles and generations (F3, F4,…). Larval mortality increased as the months of rearing (66.13 %, 69.51 % and 89.50 %) and generations (59.10 % and 76.93 % in F1 and F2, respectively) progressed in the laboratory. The larva–adult period of females obtained in the laboratory was longer than for males. In the laboratory, the life cycle was shortened in relation to the life cycle in the field because larvae did not require a cold period to break diapause and start pupation. This indicates that X. arvicola has the potential to complete its life cycle inside grape wood in vineyards of wine‐producing regions with warmer winters.
Can the pheromones of predators modulate responses to herbivore‐induced plant volatiles?
Authors: Cabello T. , Rodriguez‐Manzaneque M.A. , Gallego J.R.
Published: January 2017

Biological control of greenhouse pests has been successfully developed and applied. In greenhouse crops, several entomophagous species (predators and parasitoids) are used simultaneously in the crop cycle. One important aspect of these crops, which represent modified ecosystems, is the interactions among complexes of species, including plants, phytophagous insects, and predators. The chemical relationships (semiochemicals: pheromones and kairomones) among these species likely play an important role in greenhouse crops; however, few studies have focused on these relationships. The aim of this study was to analyse the importance of semiochemicals. Three groups of laboratory trials were conducted with two predatory species:Nabis pseudoferusandNesidiocoris tenuis(Hemiptera: Nabidae and Miridae, respectively). The results of the first group of trials indicated that the adult females of both species were more attracted to herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) than they were to the control plants or plants with artificial damage. Based on the second group of trials, pheromones triggered an attraction in adult females of both species for conspecifics. Finally, based on the interactions of the adult females of the same species, pheromones changed or modulated the predatory responses toHIPVs. The implications of these results for the biological control of pest species in greenhouses are further discussed.
cipC is important for Aspergillus fumigatus virulence
Authors: Canela Heliara Maria Spina , Takami Luciano Akira , da Silva Ferreira Márcia Eliana
Published: January 2017

Aspergillus fumigatus is the main causative agent of invasive aspergillosis, a disease that affects immunocompromised patients and has a high mortality rate. We previously observed that the transcription of a cipC‐like gene was increased when A. fumigatus encountered an increased CO2 concentration, as occurs during the infection process. CipC is a protein of unknown function that might be associated with fungal pathogenicity. In this study, the cipC gene was disrupted in A. fumigatus to evaluate its importance for fungal pathogenicity. The gene was replaced, and the germination, growth phenotype, stress responses, and virulence of the resultant mutant were assessed. Although cipC was not essential, its deletion attenuated A. fumigatus virulence in a low‐dose murine infection model, suggesting the involvement of the cipC gene in the virulence of this fungus. This study is the first to disrupt the cipC gene in A. fumigatus.
CD34 immunostaining enhances a distinct pattern of intratumor angiogenesis with prognostic implications in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: López José I. , Erramuzpe Asier , Guarch Rosa , Cortés Jesús M. , Pulido Rafael , Llarena Roberto , Angulo Javier C.
Published: January 2017

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma is an aggressive neoplasm related to VHL gene inactivation. The molecular events derived from this initial alteration lead to a permanent intracellular pseudo‐hypoxic status that stimulates vascular proliferation. The resulting increased intratumor angiogenesis is the target of most modern therapies. Although intratumor angiogenesis has received full attention in the last years, few studies have focused on its potential importance from a strict morphological approach. Intratumor angiogenesis has been analyzed in a retrospective series of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (n = 208) with long‐term follow‐up (n = 177). Two different patterns of angiogenesis have been highlighted with CD34 at the front of tumor invasion, termed continuous and discontinuous, respectively. The continuous pattern of angiogenesis showed a complete microvascular network surrounding totally tumor nests. Conversely, the discontinuous pattern displayed an incomplete network around tumor nests. The continuous pattern was associated to shorter 5‐year (p = 0.00064, hazard ratio = 2.8) and 15‐year (p = 0.014, hazard ratio = 1.7) survivals. Cox regression multivariate analysis also showed that the continuous pattern (p = 0.016373) remains a significant variable when considered together with grade (p = 0.001755) and stage (p = 0.000952). These findings support the notion that a continuous CD34+ pattern of intratumor angiogenesis may be useful for pathologists in predicting tumor behavior in clear cell renal cell carcinomas.
Can Legislation Prohibiting Weight Discrimination Improve Psychological Well‐Being? A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Pearl Rebecca L. , Puhl Rebecca M. , Dovidio John F.
Published: January 2017

Weight‐based discrimination is pervasive and increases vulnerability to poor mental health among targeted individuals. Legislation prohibiting weight discrimination has been proposed as an avenue for reducing social injustice. The present research examines how mere knowledge of such legislation may improve the psychological well‐being of individuals who have experienced unfair treatment due to weight. In an experiment administered online, 214 adults with overweight/obesity read a vignette exemplifying weight discrimination and were randomly assigned to one of two conditions, in which they were informed that weight discrimination was illegal or legal, and then responded to questionnaires assessing internalized weight bias, affect, perceived pervasiveness of weight discrimination, and support for anti‐discrimination legislation. Analysis of covariance revealed that participants with obesity in the Illegal condition exhibited lower levels of internalized weight bias than did participants in the Legal condition. Participants in the Illegal condition also exhibited less negative affect and more positive affect than did those in the Legal condition. No significant effects of condition on perceived pervasiveness of weight discrimination or legislation support emerged. Findings suggest that mere knowledge of legislation prohibiting weight discrimination has the potential to reduce weight bias internalization and improve affective responses among individuals with obesity.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of single doses of rivaroxaban in obese patients prior to and after bariatric surgery
Authors: Kröll Dino , Stirnimann Guido , Vogt Andreas , Lai Desirée Lin Lee , Borbély Yves Michael , Altmeier Julia , Schädelin Sabine , Candinas Daniel , Alberio Lorenzo , Nett Philipp C.
Published: January 2017

Aims

Venous thromboembolism is an important cause of postoperative morbidity and mortality in bariatric surgery. Studies of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are not available in this surgical field. The objective of this phase 1 clinical trial was to investigate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) parameters of rivaroxaban in bariatric patients.

Methods

In this single‐centre study, obese patients received single oral doses of rivaroxaban (10 mg) 1 day prior to and 3 days after bariatric surgery. PK and PD parameters were assessed at baseline and during 24 h after drug ingestion.

Results

Six Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass patients and six sleeve gastrectomy patients completed the study. Mean rivaroxaban area under plasma concentration–time curve, peak plasma concentration, time to peak plasma concentration and terminal half‐life were 971.9 μg·h l–1 (coefficient of variation: 10.6), 135.3 μg l–1 (26.7), 1.5 h and 13.1 h (34.1) prior to and 1165.8 (21.9), 170.0 (15.9), 1.5 and 8.9 (44.6) postsurgery for SG patients and 933.7 μg·h l–1 (22.3), 136.5 μg l–1 (10.7), 1.5 h und 13.8 h (46.6) prior to and 1029.4 (7.4), 110.8 (31.8), 2.5 and 15 (60.0) postsurgery for Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass patients, respectively. Prothrombin fragments (F1 + 2) decreased during the first 12 hours and increased thereafter in the pre‐ and the postbariatric setting. Thrombin–antithrombin complexes dropped within 1–3 h in the prebariatric setting and remained low after surgery until they increased at 24 h postdose. Rivaroxaban was well tolerated and no relevant safety issues were observed.

Conclusions

Bariatric surgery does not appear to alter PK of rivaroxaban in a clinically relevant way. Effective prophylactic postbariatric anticoagulation is supported by changes in PD.
The role of parental anxiety sensitivity and learning experiences in children's anxiety sensitivity
Authors: Stassart Céline , Dardenne Benoit , Etienne Anne‐Marie
Published: January 2017

This study evaluated the impact of the mother's and father's anxiety sensitivity (AS) and learning experiences on children's AS, and the influence of two moderators: the children's femininity orientation and the children's emotional intelligence (EI). The sample comprised 200 non‐clinical children, aged 9–13 years, and their parents (mothers and fathers). Results revealed that the effect of parental AS on children's AS is moderated by the children's EI for maternal AS and by their femininity traits for paternal AS. Learning experiences following somatic sensations influenced the children's level of AS. More specifically, special attention by parents following a child's somatic sensations (reinforcement and transmission of information) was associated with high AS in children. Parental reactions of fear following a parent's somatic sensations (modelling) seem to predict higher scores for AS when the link is moderated by the child's femininity orientation. The implications of these findings are discussed.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject

The influence of parental factors in child's AS has been demonstrate, but these studies are limited.

Specific mechanisms might condition the relationship between child's AS and parental factors.

What does this study add?

Learning experiences and parental AS influence the child's level of AS.

It is important to consider the influence of mothers and fathers in child's AS.

Child's emotional intelligence and expressive traits may moderate the effect of parental factors.
Using Principles of Behavioral Epigenetics to Advance Research on Early‐Life Stress
Authors: Conradt Elisabeth
Published: January 2017

While the negative effects of early‐life stress on children's developmental outcomes are well documented, we know little about how these processes unfold and which children are more susceptible to these exposures. In this article, I outline how studying the effects of early‐life stress on children's development can be advanced by considering how epigenetic processes may contribute to the emergence of children's behavior. The study of epigenetics can help pinpoint the mechanisms by which early‐life stress may affect developmental outcomes and identify which children may be most sensitive to the effects of these exposures. I conclude by highlighting the challenges inherent in studying epigenetics in children and offer possible solutions.
Probability Learning: Changes in Behavior Across Time and Development
Authors: Plate Rista C. , Fulvio Jacqueline M. , Shutts Kristin , Green C. Shawn , Pollak Seth D.
Published: January 2017

Individuals track probabilities, such as associations between events in their environments, but less is known about the degree to which experience—within a learning session and over development—influences people's use of incoming probabilistic information to guide behavior in real time. In two experiments, children (4–11 years) and adults searched for rewards hidden in locations with predetermined probabilities. In Experiment 1, children (n = 42) and adults (n = 32) changed strategies to maximize reward receipt over time. However, adults demonstrated greater strategy change efficiency. Making the predetermined probabilities more difficult to learn (Experiment 2) delayed effective strategy change for children (n = 39) and adults (n = 33). Taken together, these data characterize how children and adults alike react flexibly and change behavior according to incoming information.
Planning interventional trials in childhood arterial ischaemic stroke using a Delphi consensus process
Authors: Steinlin Maja , O'callaghan Finbar , Mackay Mark T
Published: January 2017

Aim

There is a paucity of data from randomized controlled treatment trials in childhood arterial ischaemic stroke. Our objectives were to identify and plan a trial through use of a Delphi consensus process.

Method

The Delphi panel consisted of Australian, New Zealand, and European paediatric neurologists with interests in childhood stroke. Four rounds were conducted using a REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) Web‐based application: the first consisted of open‐ended questions; the second evaluated agreement for the most important trial; the third and fourth reached consensus on design.

Results

Forty‐seven out of 66 neurologists answered the first round. Eight areas of research for important and feasible trials were identified. In the second round, 43 paediatric neurologists ranked the three highest rated trials: (1) aspirin versus aspirin plus steroids in focal arteriopathy (n=31); (2) heparin versus aspirin (n=6); and (3) heparin versus aspirin versus modern anticoagulation (n=6). The third and fourth surveys reached consensus among 43 out of 44 respondents on design of the highest ranked trial, and allowed agreement on inclusion/exclusion criteria, clinical/neuroimaging data, and treatment protocols.

Conclusion

The Delphi consensus process is an efficient method of identifying and planning paediatric stroke trials. An international, multicentre trial is now in preparation.
South‐South civil society partnerships: renewed ties of political contention and policy building
Authors: Milhorance Carolina , Bursztyn Marcel
Published: January 2017

This article sheds light on the new sites of contestation of global capitalism and international geopolitics created by transnational ties between Brazilian and Mozambican social movements. With a special focus on the rural sector and land issues, the article examines how the internationalization of Brazil's public policies and companies set the context and opened opportunity to the rise of South‐South advocacy networks and the setting up of renewed spaces of political dialogue. Building on the politics of mobilization, it identifies two major coalitions reflecting Brazil's domestic struggles and analyzes their different mobilization strategies and objectives influencing political outcomes.
Gender disparities in the functional significance of anemia among apparently healthy adults
Authors: Shouval Roni , Katz Sharon , Nagler Arnon , Merkel Drorit , Ben‐Zvi Ilan , Segev Shlomo , Sidi Yechezkel , Goldenberg Ilan , Kivity Shaye , Maor Elad
Published: January 2017

Background

Data on the functional impact of anemia on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and survival in healthy individuals are limited. Our aim was to evaluate the association between anemia thresholds, low CRF, and survival in otherwise healthy adults.

Methods

Study population included 16 334 apparently healthy subjects attending annual periodic health screening examinations (71 200 annual visits), including exercise stress testing (EST). Anemia was defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) or Beutler and Waalens’ (BW) criteria. Low CRF was defined as the lowest fitness quintile according to the Bruce protocol.

Results

The mean age was 46±10 years, and 70% were men. Mean Hb levels were 13±1 and 15±1 among women and men, respectively, with higher proportion of anemia among women. The majority of anemic subjects had mild anemia. When analyzing repeated annual visits, anemia was associated with a significant 39% and 64% increased risk of low CRF according the WHO and BW criteria only in women (n=18 672). Baseline anemia at first visit was associated with 2.6‐ and 1.9‐fold increased risk of all‐cause mortality using the WHO and BW criteria, exclusively in men (n=11 511).

Conclusions

Overall, the functional and prognostic impact of anemia is gender dependent, based on the WHO and BW arbitrary criteria, suggesting differing mechanism and responses.
First report of Myzus mumecola (Matsumura, 1917) in Europe
Authors: Panini M. , Massimino Cocuzza G. , Dradi D. , Chiesa O. , Mazzoni E.
Published: January 2017

During the spring of 2016, the aphid Myzus mumecola (Matsumura) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) was detected on its preferential host plant, Prunus armeniaca L. (Rosaceae), in Italy. This was the first record of the species in Europe. Several populations of the aphid have been collected in various apricot orchards in Emilia‐Romagna, in the localities of Imola, Campiano, Cesena and Castiglione di Cervia. The species is considered to be an apricot pest in India and East Asia. Details on the morphology, biology and distribution of this aphid species and the damage it causes are given.
An outbreak of equine botulism type D in Israel
Authors: Shnaiderman‐Torban A. , Elad D. , Kelmer G. , Avni G. , Shalit U. , Steinman A.
Published: January 2017

An outbreak of type D botulism involved 12 horses in an equine farm in Israel. Clinical signs included progressive weakness and decreased tongue and tail tonus. Ten of the horses died. Supportive care was provided, without antitoxin administration, since it was not available. In two samples of the gastrointestinal content, the presence ofClostridium botulinumtype D toxin producing bacteria was demonstrated by the mouse bioassay test. Botulism represents a severe concern, due to high mortality rate and public health problem. Since clinical signs are insufficient to make a definitive diagnosis, laboratory confirmation is required. Prevention of exposure, immunisation and early aggressive treatment may decrease mortality.
Ichthyofauna (Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes) from the Upper Cretaceous intertrappean beds of Piplanarayanwar, Chhindwara District, Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Lourembam Ranjit Singh , Prasad Guntupalli V. R. , Grover Pooja
Published: January 2017

A new fossiliferous intertrappean section is found 92 km southwest of the extensively studied intertrappean beds of Mohgaonkalan and Jhilmili in Chhindwara District, Central India. Application of the bulk screen‐washing method led to the recovery of a rich microvertebrate fauna represented by fish, amphibians, crocodiles, snakes and dinosaurs. In this paper, the ichthyofauna recovered from the new intertrappean section consisting ofIgdabatis indicusPrasad and Cappetta, 1993,Lepisosteus indicusWoodward, 1908, Osteoglossidae gen. et sp. indet., Pycnodontidae gen. et sp. indet. and Siluriformes indet. is described. The ichthyofauna dominantly represented by the teeth ofIgdabatis indicusis suggestive of a nearshore, deltaic or estuarine palaeoenvironment and Late Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) age for the intertrappean beds. The remarkable similarity of the new intertrappean fauna to that of Asifabad and the infratrappean beds of Marepalli also is suggestive of coastal‐plain conditions all along the Godavari lineament in the Late Cretaceous. Although the presence of planktonic foraminifera in the intertrappean beds of Jhilmili in the Mandla Lobe of Deccan volcanic province has been inferred in terms of a short term marine incursion from the west coast along the Narmada lineament in the Early Palaeocene, currently there is no definitive evidence for the prevalence of marine or coastal‐plain conditions along the Narmada lineament at least in the latest Cretaceous.
The Inclusion Paradox of Enfranchising Expats in Latin America
Authors: Margheritis Ana
Published: January 2017

Enfranchising emigrants implicitly involves inviting them to have a voice and increasing engagement in home politics, thus maintaining active membership of their nation of origin. However, in the Latin American Southern Cone (as well as in several other countries in the region), both state policies and expats’ responses have fallen short of making that invitation effective. What explains this inclusion paradox? Why, while franchise is expanding has effective political inclusion of citizens living abroad not materialized? This article addresses these questions for the cases of Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. Conclusions highlight relatively unexplored explanatory factors and enhance our understanding of the links between migration policy innovation and political inclusion beyond borders in some of the least studied cases in the literature.