bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency patterns of semantic change: corpus-based evidence of a near-critical dynamics in language change
Authors: Feltgen Q. , Fagard B. , Nadal J.-P.
Published: November 2017

It is generally believed that when a linguistic item acquires a new meaning, its overall frequency of use rises with time with an S-shaped growth curve. Yet, this claim has only been supported by a limited number of case studies. In this paper, we provide the first corpus-based large-scale confirmation of the S-curve in language change. Moreover, we uncover another generic pattern, a latency phase preceding the S-growth, during which the frequency remains close to constant. We propose a usage-based model which predicts both phases, the latency and the S-growth. The driving mechanism is a random walk in the space of frequency of use. The underlying deterministic dynamics highlights the role of a control parameter which tunes the system at the vicinity of a saddle-node bifurcation. In the neighbourhood of the critical point, the latency phase corresponds to the diffusion time over the critical region, and the S-growth to the fast convergence that follows. The durations of the two phases are computed as specific first-passage times, leading to distributions that fit well the ones extracted from our dataset. We argue that our results are not specific to the studied corpus, but apply to semantic change in general.
Biotransformation of labdane and halimane diterpenoids by two filamentous fungi strains
Authors: Monteiro Afif F. , Seidl Cláudia , Severino Vanessa G. P. , Cardoso Carmen Lúcia , Castro-Gamboa Ian
Published: November 2017

Biotransformation of natural products by filamentous fungi is a powerful and effective approach to achieve derivatives with valuable new chemical and biological properties. Although diterpenoid substrates usually exhibit good susceptibility towards fungi enzymes, there have been no studies concerning the microbiological transformation of halimane-type diterpenoids up to now. In this work, we investigated the capability of
Fusarium oxysporum
(a fungus isolated from the rhizosphere of
Senna spectabilis
) and
Myrothecium verrucaria
(an endophyte) to transform halimane (
1
) and labdane (
2
) acids isolated from
Hymenaea stigonocarpa
(Fabaceae). Feeding experiments resulted in the production of six derivatives, including hydroxy, oxo, formyl and carboxy analogues. Incubation of
1
with
F. oxysporum
afforded 2-oxo-derivative (
3
), while bioconversion with
M. verrucaria
provided 18,19-dihydroxy (
4
), 18-formyl (
5
) and 18-carboxy (
6
) bioproducts. Transformation of substrate
2
mediated by
F. oxysporum
produced a 7
α
-hydroxy (
7
) derivative, while
M. verrucaria
yielded 7
α
- (
7
) and 3
β
-hydroxy (
8
) metabolites. Unlike
F. oxysporum
, which showed a preference to transform ring B,
M. verrucaria
exhibited the ability to hydroxylate both rings A and B from substrate
2
. Additionally, compounds
1
–
8
were evaluated for inhibitory activity against Hr-AChE and Hu-BChE enzymes through ICER-IT-MS/MS assay.
Bystanders intervene to impede grooming in Western chimpanzees and sooty mangabeys
Authors: Mielke Alexander , Samuni Liran , Preis Anna , Gogarten Jan F. , Crockford Catherine , Wittig Roman M.
Published: November 2017

Grooming interactions benefit groomers, but may have negative consequences for bystanders. Grooming limits bystanders' grooming access and ensuing alliances could threaten the bystander's hierarchy rank or their previous investment in the groomers. To gain a competitive advantage, bystanders could intervene into a grooming bout to increase their own grooming access or to prevent the negative impact of others' grooming. We tested the impact of dominance rank and social relationships on grooming intervention likelihood and outcome in two sympatric primate species, Western chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) and sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys atys). In both species, rather than increasing their own access to preferred partners, bystanders intervened mainly when an alliance between groomers could have a negative impact on them: when the lower-ranking groomer was close to the bystander in rank, when either groomer was an affiliation partner whose services they could lose, or the groomers were not yet strongly affiliated with each other. Thus, bystanders in both species appear to monitor grooming interactions and intervene based on their own dominance rank and social relationships, as well as triadic awareness of the relationship between groomers. While the motivation to intervene did not differ between species, mangabeys appeared to be more constrained by dominance rank than chimpanzees.
RANK rewires energy homeostasis in lung cancer cells and drives primary lung cancer
Authors: Rao Shuan , Sigl Verena , Wimmer Reiner Alois , Novatchkova Maria , Jais Alexander , Wagner Gabriel , Handschuh Stephan , Uribesalgo Iris , Hagelkruys Astrid , Kozieradzki Ivona , Tortola Luigi , Nitsch Roberto , Cronin Shane J. , Orthofer Michael , Branstetter Daniel , Canon Jude , Rossi John , D'Arcangelo Manolo , Botling Johan , Micke Patrick , Fleur Linnea La , Edlund Karolina , Bergqvist Michael , Ekman Simon , Lendl Thomas , Popper Helmut , Takayanagi Hiroshi , Kenner Lukas , Hirsch Fred R. , Dougall William , Penninger Josef M.
Published: November 2017

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths. Besides smoking, epidemiological studies have linked female sex hormones to lung cancer in women; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here we report that the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB (RANK), the key regulator of osteoclastogenesis, is frequently expressed in primary lung tumors, an active RANK pathway correlates with decreased survival, and pharmacologic RANK inhibition reduces tumor growth in patient-derived lung cancer xenografts. Clonal genetic inactivation of KRasG12D in mouse lung epithelial cells markedly impairs the progression of KRasG12D-driven lung cancer, resulting in a significant survival advantage. Mechanistically, RANK rewires energy homeostasis in human and murine lung cancer cells and promotes expansion of lung cancer stem-like cells, which is blocked by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration. Our data also indicate survival differences in KRasG12D-driven lung cancer between male and female mice, and we show that female sex hormones can promote lung cancer progression via the RANK pathway. These data uncover a direct role for RANK in lung cancer and may explain why female sex hormones accelerate lung cancer development. Inhibition of RANK using the approved drug denosumab may be a therapeutic drug candidate for primary lung cancer.
Comparative genome analysis of programmed DNA elimination in nematodes
Authors: Wang Jianbin , Gao Shenghan , Mostovoy Yulia , Kang Yuanyuan , Zagoskin Maxim , Sun Yongqiao , Zhang Bing , White Laura K. , Easton Alice , Nutman Thomas B. , Kwok Pui-Yan , Hu Songnian , Nielsen Martin K. , Davis Richard E.
Published: November 2017

Programmed DNA elimination is a developmentally regulated process leading to the reproducible loss of specific genomic sequences. DNA elimination occurs in unicellular ciliates and a variety of metazoans, including invertebrates and vertebrates. In metazoa, DNA elimination typically occurs in somatic cells during early development, leaving the germline genome intact. Reference genomes for metazoa that undergo DNA elimination are not available. Here, we generated germline and somatic reference genome sequences of the DNA eliminating pig parasitic nematode Ascaris suum and the horse parasite Parascaris univalens. In addition, we carried out in-depth analyses of DNA elimination in the parasitic nematode of humans, Ascaris lumbricoides, and the parasitic nematode of dogs, Toxocara canis. Our analysis of nematode DNA elimination reveals that in all species, repetitive sequences (that differ among the genera) and germline-expressed genes (approximately 1000–2000 or 5%–10% of the genes) are eliminated. Thirty-five percent of these eliminated genes are conserved among these nematodes, defining a core set of eliminated genes that are preferentially expressed during spermatogenesis. Our analysis supports the view that DNA elimination in nematodes silences germline-expressed genes. Over half of the chromosome break sites are conserved between Ascaris and Parascaris, whereas only 10% are conserved in the more divergent T. canis. Analysis of the chromosomal breakage regions suggests a sequence-independent mechanism for DNA breakage followed by telomere healing, with the formation of more accessible chromatin in the break regions prior to DNA elimination. Our genome assemblies and annotations also provide comprehensive resources for analysis of DNA elimination, parasitology research, and comparative nematode genome and epigenome studies.
A new copper(II) coordination polymer containing chains of interconnected paddle-wheel antiferromagnetic clusters
Authors: Bouheroum Sofiane , Cherouana Aouatef , Beghidja Adel , Dahaoui Slimane , Rabu Pierre
Published: November 2017

The construction of supramolecular architectures based on inorganic–organic coordination frameworks with weak noncovalent interactions has implications for the rational design of functional materials. A new crystalline binuclear copper(II) one-dimensional polymeric chain, namely catena-poly[[[tetrakis(μ-4-azaniumylbutanoato-κ2
O:O′)dicopper(II)(Cu—Cu)]-μ-chlorido-[diaquadichloridocopper(II)]-μ-chlorido] bis(perchlorate)], {[Cu3Cl4(C4H9NO2)4(H2O)2](ClO4)2}
n
, was obtained by the reaction of 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA) with CuCl2·2H2O in aqueous solution. The structure was established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and was also characterized by IR spectroscopy and magnetic measurements. The crystal structure consists of [{Cu2(GABA)4}{CuCl4(H2O)2}]+ cations and isolated perchlorate anions. Two symmetry-related CuII centres are bridged via carboxylate O atoms into a classical paddle-wheel configuration, with a Cu...Cu distance of 2.643 (1) Å, while bridging Cl atoms complete the square-pyramidal geometry of the metal atoms. The Cl atoms connect the paddlewheel moieties to a second CuII atom lying on an octahedral site, resulting in infinite helical chains along the c axis. The packing motif exhibits channels containing free perchlorate anions. The crystal structure is stabilized by hydrogen bonds between the perchlorate anions, the coordinated water molecules and the ammonium groups of the polymeric chains. The magnetic analysis of the title compound indicates a nontrivial antiferromagnetic behaviour arising from alternating weak–strong antiferromagnetic coupling between neighbouring CuII centres.
Design, synthesis and crystallographic study of novel indole-based cyano derivatives as key building blocks for heteropolycyclic compounds of major complexity
Authors: García Andrés C. , Abonía Rodrigo , Jaramillo-Gómez Luz M. , Cobo Justo , Glidewell Christopher
Published: November 2017

A four-stage reaction sequence has been designed and developed for the synthesis of highly functionalized enolate esters as key building blocks for the synthesis of novel heteropolycyclic compounds of potential pharmaceutical value. The sequence starts with simple commercially available indoles and proceeds via 3-(indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitriles, which react with 2-bromobenzaldehyde to form the corresponding chalcones; these are readily reduced to dihydrochalcones, which are in turn acylated to form the enolate esters. The compounds in this sequence have been characterized by IR and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, by mass spectrometry and by elemental analysis. The molecular and supramolecular structures are reported for representative examples, namely (E)-3-(2-bromophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indole-3-carbonyl)acrylonitrile, C19H13BrN2O, (Ib), (2RS)-2-(2-bromobenzyl)-3-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile, C19H15BrN2O, (IIb), and (2RS)-3-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-(2-bromobenzyl)-3-oxopropanenitrile, C25H19BrN2O, (IIc), the latter two of which crystallize with Z′ = 2, and (E)-1-(1-acetyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-(2-bromophenyl)-2-cyanoprop-1-en-1-yl acetate, C22H17BrN2O, (III), and (E)-1-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-(2-bromophenyl)-2-cyanoprop-1-en-1-yl benzoate, C32H23BrN2O, (IV). The structure of the related chalcone (E)-2-benzoyl-3-(2-bromophenyl)prop-2-enenitrile, (V), has been redetermined at 100 K, where it is monoclinic, as opposed to the triclinic form reported at ambient temperature.
Role of halogen–halogen contacts in the crystal structures of three new solvates of the drug oxyclozanide
Authors: Sridhar Balasubramanian , Ravikumar Krishnan
Published: November 2017

Halogen–halogen contacts are electrostatic in nature and exhibit directionality similar to hydrogen bonds. Oxyclozanide [systematic name: 2,3,5-trichloro-N-(3,5-dichloro-2-hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxybenzamide] is a drug used for the treatment of fascioliasis in domestic animals. The molecule carries five chlorine substituents and represents an ideal candidate for the study of halogen bonds in the crystal. Three new crystalline solvates of oxyclozanide, namely, oxyclozanide benzene hemisolvate, C13H6Cl5NO3·0.5C6H6, (I), oxyclozanide xylene hemisolvate, C13H6Cl5NO3·0.5C8H10, (II), and oxyclozanide toluene hemisolvate, C13H6Cl5NO3·0.5C7H8, (III), were structurally characterized. In this context, the crystal structure of oxyclozanide chlorobenzene hemisolvate, C13H6Cl5NO3·0.5C6H5Cl, (IV), was redetermined based on intensity data collected at 100 K. In all four solvates, the cocrystallized solvent molecules are located on crystallographic inversion centres. Solvates (I)–(IV) exhibit similar one-dimensional hydrogen-bonded chains generated by O—H...O, O—H...Cl and Cl...Cl interactions. The extension of these one-dimensional chains into two-dimensional layers is promoted by Cl...Cl and C—H...π contacts. Solvates (III) and (IV) are isostructural and differ from (I) and (II) with respect to subtle details concerning the intermolecular contacts.
Amsterdam house price ripple effects in The Netherlands
Authors: Teye Alfred Larm , Knoppel Michel , de Haan Jan , Elsinga Marja G.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the existence of the ripple effect from Amsterdam to the housing markets of other regions in The Netherlands. It identifies which regional housing markets are influenced by house price movements in Amsterdam.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers the ripple effect as a lead-lag effect and a long-run convergence between the Amsterdam and regional house prices. Using the real house prices for second-hand owner-occupied dwellings from 1995q1 to 2016q2, the paper adopts the Toda–Yamamoto Granger Causality approach to study the lead-lag effects. It uses the autoregressive distributed lags (ARDL)-Bounds cointegration techniques to examine the long-run convergence between the regional and the Amsterdam house prices. The paper controls for house price fundamentals to eliminate possible confounding effects of common shocks.

Findings

The cumulative evidence suggests that Amsterdam house prices have influence on (or ripple to) all the Dutch regions, except one. In particular, the Granger Causality test concludes that a lead-lag effect of house prices exists from Amsterdam to all the regions, apart from Zeeland. The cointegration test shows evidence of a long-convergence between Amsterdam house prices and six regions: Friesland, Groningen, Limburg, Overijssel, Utrecht and Zuid-Holland.

Research limitations/implications

The paper adopts an econometric approach to examine the Amsterdam ripple effect. More sophisticated economic models that consider the asymmetric properties of house prices and the patterns of interregional socio-economic activities into the modelling approach are recommended for further investigation.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on The Netherlands for which the ripple effect has not yet been researched to the authors’ knowledge. Given the substantial wealth effects associated with house price changes that may shape economic activity through consumption, evidence for ripples may be helpful to policy makers for uncovering trends that have implications for the entire economy. Moreover, the analysis controls for common house price fundamentals which most previous papers ignored.
Coopetition among nascent craft breweries: a value chain analysis
Authors: Flanagan David J. , Lepisto Douglas A. , Ofstein Laurel F.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to employ an inductive approach to explore how small, nascent, firms in the craft brewing industry use cooperative behaviours with direct competitors to achieve their goals.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from interviews with the founders of seven small, newly established, craft brewers in a Midwestern city in the USA for this exploratory study. Data analysis followed the general tenants of inductive coding. Porter’s value chain model was used as a framework to organise and conceptualise the coopetitive behaviour uncovered.

Findings

The firms engage in cooperative behaviours with their direct competitors in areas such as process technology development, procurement, inbound logistics and marketing. A particularly interesting and common collaborative activity was breweries recommending/promoting competing breweries to their own customers.

Practical implications

This study provides clear examples of how relationship building with competitors could be advantageous and help small, nascent firms overcome the liabilities of newness and smallness.

Originality/value

Research on coopetition has called for a greater understanding of the nature of cooperative behaviours in small firms, start-ups and firms outside of high-technology industries. Moreover, research has called for finer-grained approaches to conceptualising coopetition. This paper fills these gaps and shows how Porter’s value chain is a useful tool for organising the types of collaborative behaviours that can be part of coopetition. The findings enhance understanding and facilitate future research by illustrating a broad array of cooperative activities that occur between direct competitors.
And then he threatened to kill himself: nightmare viva stories as opportunities for learning
Authors: Sikes Pat
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In the UK and countries following similar systems of doctoral assessment, there is little research-based evidence about what goes on in vivas. However, “doctoral assessment ‘horror stories’”, abound. The purpose of this paper is to report a study focussing on difficult doctoral examining experiences and argue that sharing such stories can provide a useful basis for examiner and supervisor education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study took a narrative auto/biographical approach.

Findings

The stories participants told show that doctoral examining is relational, emotional and ethical work and that viva outcomes are strongly influenced by subjectivities. There was felt to be a need to share stories of difficulties in order to bring them into the open with a view to prompting transformational change.

Research limitations/implications

Participants were self-selecting and all worked at the same institution.

Originality/value

There are few accounts of examiners’ experiences of the viva.
Conclusion: what marketing strategy for destinations with a negative image?
Authors: Séraphin Hugues , Gowreesunkar Vanessa G.B.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This concluding paper filters out meaningful marketing strategies that could be used to re-position and re-establish tourism destinations struggling with negative image. Drawing from a collection of case studies around the world, this paper aims to provide evidence from post-colonial, post-conflict and post-disaster destinations to anchor the overall conclusion of the theme issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper summarizes key issues faced by destinations plagued with a negative image and identifies adaptive marketing strategies based on existing marketing theories and success stories from struggling destinations.

Findings

Destinations with a negative image are mostly post-colonial, post-conflict or post disaster destinations (or all of the three combined), and despite their poor (if no) marketing strategies, they continue to struggle to find their share in the tourism market. This paper highlights four main challenges of such destinations and proposes that adaptive marketing strategies can turn the situation of struggling destinations to a situation of emerging destinations. Marketing strategies that are cited in this theme are based on empirical evidence and they are communication strategy, differentiation and promotion of responsible and health tourism, heritage tourism, cluster tourism and the involvement of destination marketing organisations.

Originality/value

This paper takes a somewhat different approach and proposes adaptive marketing strategies for struggling destinations. These are based on the notion that the consequences of not addressing negative image also impacts on established destinations that have to cope with increased capacity. The value of this paper is that it draws from empirical evidence, each unique in their own right and re-establishes how post-colonial, post-conflict and post-disaster destinations could improve while highlighting their potential and limiting factors.
Role of chemokines and the corresponding receptors in vitiligo: A pilot study
Authors: Yang Lingling , Yang Sailing , Lei Jiehao , Hu Wenting , Chen Rong , Lin Fuquan , Xu Ai‐e
Published: November 2017

To determine the levels and sources of chemokines in the serum and epidermis of vitiligo patients, we examined 80 active patients, 80 stable patients and 40 healthy controls. First, the serum levels of candidate chemokines were measured by Luminex assay, and levels of CCR5, CXCR1 and CXCR3 were measured in peripheral mononuclear cells (PMBC) by flow cytometry. Then, the local epidermis levels of elevated chemokines in vitiligo were tested by Luminex. Finally, the mRNA and protein expression levels of elevated chemokines in HaCaT cells stimulated with interferon (IFN)‐γ or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α were tested by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Luminex. The serum levels of CCL5, CXCL8 and CXCL10 in active vitiligo were significantly elevated compared with those in stable vitiligo patients. Furthermore, the levels of CCL3 and CCL4 had weak and positive correlations with the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index. In the peripheral blood of active vitiligo patients, the percentages of CD3+CD8+CCR5+ and CD3+CD8+CXCR3+ T cells were significantly increased compared with those in stable vitiligo and healthy controls. In the epidermis of lesions, the expression levels of CCL5 and CXCL10 in active vitiligo were significantly increased. In addition, the mRNA and protein levels of CCL5, CXCL8 and CXCL10 were significantly elevated in HaCaT cells after stimulation with TNF‐α or IFN‐γ. The CCR5/CCL5 and CXCR3/CXCL10 axes may play an important role in the progression and maintenance of vitiligo. Moreover, keratinocytes stimulated with TNF‐α and IFN‐γ may be a primary source of CCL5 and CXCL10.
Imiquimod 5% cream as a therapeutic option for extramammary Paget's disease
Authors: Sawada Masahide , Kato Junji , Yamashita Toshiharu , Yoneta Akihiro , Hida Tokimasa , Horimoto Kohei , Sato Sayuri , Uhara Hisashi
Published: November 2017

A wide local excision is the standard treatment for extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD), though this treatment often leads to permanent anogenital mutilation and functional impairment. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the topical application of imiquimod 5% cream for non‐invasive EMPD. We examined nine patients with EMPD. Eight of the nine patients were treated with imiquimod 5% cream three times per week for 16 weeks; one case was treated for 6 weeks. The response rate was 100% including five complete remissions. Local irritation was observed in three patients, which was controlled by a provisional withdrawal of the treatment. These results suggest that imiquimod 5% cream may be considered an alternative therapeutic option for the treatment of non‐invasive EMPD.
MASTDISCS combi Carba plus, a simple method for discriminating carbapenemase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae, including OXA‐48‐type producers
Authors: Ohsaki Yusuke , Kubo Ryoichi , Hobson Jonathan , Davies Mya , Osaka Shunsuke , Hayashi Wataru , Taniguchi Yui , Koide Shota , Nagano Yukiko , Nagano Noriyuki
Published: November 2017

Accurate and rapid detection of carbapenemases and identification of their types in Enterobacteriaceae are both still major challenges for clinical laboratories in attempting to prevent the intrusion and transmission of carbapenemase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the MASTDISCS combi Carba plus disc system in identification of different carbapenemase types, including OXA‐48‐type carbapenemase, for which no specific enzyme inhibitors have so far been available. The simple disc system discriminates carbapenemases, including OXA‐48‐types exhibiting low carbapenem minimum inhibitory concentrations, by targeting Enterobacteriaceae isolates with a EUCAST meropenem screening cut‐off of ≥0.25 mg/L.
Mapping an Australian Occupational Therapy curriculum: Linking intended learning outcomes with entry‐level competency standards
Authors: Sellar Ben , Murray Carolyn M. , Stanley Mandy , Stewart Hugh , Hipp Helene , Gilbert‐Hunt Susan
Published: November 2017

Background

Curriculum mapping involves systematic charting of programme content against professional competencies. This process can reveal strengths, gaps and redundancies within educational programmes.

Methods

Curriculum mapping occurred using intended learning (ILOs) as documented in individual courses and linking them to units and elements within the occupational therapy minimum competency standards (ACSOT) and Miller's Framework of competency. Five occupational therapy academics and two impartial research assistants identified links between ILOs and units and elements of the ACSOT. Analysis of each course in the curriculum was completed by two reviewers. A systematic protocol was developed that enabled a transparent process and resolution of discrepancies between reviewers.

Results

There were many links (47% of total) between the documented curriculum and ACSOT Unit 1 Professional attitudes and behaviours. The other six units of the ACSOT had between 5% (Unit 7) and 16% links (Unit 3). No links were made between ILOs and the elements of evaluation (4.4), cessation (3.7) and quality assurance of services (7.3). Difficulties mapping ILOs to units and elements revealed inconsistencies in specificity and language in the ILOs and also ambiguities and gaps within the standards themselves. Mapping against Miller's framework showed a steady increase in performance expectations of students across the four years levels.

Conclusion

Curriculum mapping is recommended for critical reflection about content of occupational therapy programmes and to review pedagogical approaches. This process revealed strengths and weaknesses of the occupational therapy curriculum being mapped but also revealed insight into the current ACSOT that may inform future iterations.
Drinking water and off‐farm labour supply: between‐gender and within‐gender bias
Authors: Zhou Li , Turvey Calum G.
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we use the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) panel data to analyse the impact of drinking water on off‐farm labour supply. A two‐stage least squares (2SLS) multivariate Tobit regression model with random effects was applied. We find that impacts of drinking water conditions on off‐farm labour supply may be greater for women than men but depends on the specific family role or family structure. A strong within‐gender effect exists in households. For example, daughters are not sensitive to water access nor water quality, but householder's spouses are sensitive to water access, and daughters‐in‐law are sensitive to water quality. Our findings suggest that infrastructure development in improved access to safe water has contributed positively to reductions in traditional gender biases, evening the playing field between daughters, daughters‐in‐law, mothers and mothers‐in‐law. We also find that water the infrastructure program may actually encourage off‐farm labour mobility, reducing the supply of agricultural labour and the share of household labour on the farm. Thus, a broader approach to water policy should also include public investment in achieving greater labour efficiency and productivity.
Resource utilization conflict in downstream non‐resettled communities of the Bui Dam in Ghana
Authors: Owusu Kwadwo , Yankson Paul W. K. , Asiedu Alex B. , Obour Peter B.
Published: November 2017

In this study, we examined the downstream social impacts of Ghana’s Bui Dam and identified resource use conflicts in the non‐resettled communities within a 30 km stretch along the course of the Black Volta River below the dam. Through household survey questionnaires and focus group discussions, data were collected from farming and fishing communities in seven downstream non‐resettled communities. Data analysis was guided by the distance decay concept and matrix framework on the social impacts of dams. The results indicate that the construction of the Bui Dam has led to improvements in social infrastructure with positive multiplier effects in a spatially differentiated manner. On the other hand, the influx of migrants and the resultant land and water resource use conflicts have adversely affected farming and fishing, which are the main sources of livelihoods in the communities. Policies to regulate natural resource use around dams were recommended to be considered in dam planning and execution to safeguard the livelihoods of local downstream populations.
The accuracy and consistency of nutrition care process terminology use in cases of refeeding syndrome
Authors: Matthews Kylie L. , Palmer Michelle A. , Capra Sandra M.
Published: November 2017

Aim

Using standardised terminology in acute care has encouraged consistency in patient care and the evaluation of outcomes. As such, the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) and Nutrition Care Process Terminology (NCPT) may assist dietitian nutritionists in the delivery of high quality nutrition care worldwide; however, limited research has been conducted examining the consistency and accuracy of its use. We aimed to examine the NCPT that dietitian nutritionists would use to formulate a diagnostic statement relating to refeeding syndrome (RFS).

Methods

A multimethod action research approach was used, incorporating two projects. The first was a survey examining Australian dietitian nutritionists’ (n = 195) opinions regarding NCPT use in cases of RFS. To establish if results were similar internationally, an interview was then conducted with 22 dietitian nutritionists working within 10 different countries.

Results

‘Imbalance of nutrients’ was only identified as a correct code by 17% of respondents in project 1. No mention of this term was made in project 2. Also 86% of respondents incorrectly selected more than one diagnostic code. The majority of respondents (80%, n = 52/65) who incorrectly selected ‘Malnutrition’, without also selecting ‘Imbalance of nutrients’, selected ‘reduce intake’ as an intervention, suggesting some misunderstanding in the requirement for interrelated diagnoses, interventions and goals.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that there is limited accuracy and consistency in selecting nutritional diagnostic codes in relation to RFS. Respondents also demonstrated limited knowledge regarding appropriate application of the NCP and NCPT. Implementation practices may require further refinement, as accurate and consistent use is required to procure the benefits of standardised terminology.
The Venus of Margate: Fashion and Disease at the Seaside
Authors: Johnson Rachael
Published: November 2017

Through an examination of sea‐bathing at Margate this article explores the interactions between fashion and disease at the eighteenth‐century English seaside. Drawing on Thomas Rowlandson's companion prints Venus's Bathing (Margate), this article will show how a new trend in resort literature portrayed the sea‐bathing body as young, healthy and sexually attractive. This new narrative, it will be argued, was slowly replacing that of the fashionable sufferer: those who sought to gain cultural capital through the exaggerated display of symptoms were ridiculed, as visitors began to view a healthy body as a greater cultural asset than a sick one.
Role of imaging studies in Kawasaki disease
Authors: Tsuda Etsuko , Singhal Manphool
Published: November 2017

Kawasaki disease is a medium vessel vasculitis which may be associated with coronary artery abnormalities. Recognition of these abnormalities depends upon various imaging modalities. While two‐dimensional echocardiography remains the first line modality to identify coronary artery abnormalities, it is subject to several fallacies and is operator dependent. Computed tomography coronary angiography is rapidly emerging as a useful imaging modality for better characterization of dilatations, ectasia and aneurysms in the mid‐ and distal segments of coronary arteries. It provides precise details in terms of aneurysm size and morphology. In this review we here described the importance of computed tomography coronary angiography and have also given a brief description of magnetic resonance coronary angiography.
Differences between adult and pediatric onset Henoch‐Schonlein purpura from North India
Authors: Gupta Vikas , Aggarwal Amita , Gupta Ranjan , Chandra Chowdhury Abhra , Agarwal Vikas , Lawrence Able , Misra Ramnath
Published: November 2017

Aim

Henoch‐Schönlein purpura (HSP), a primary vasculitis, characterized by purpura, abdominal pain, arthritis and renal involvement, is predominantly a disease of childhood. However, rarely it can occur in adults in whom it is believed to be a more severe form with poor renal outcomes. We aimed to answer if the age of onset affected the clinical spectrum and renal outcomes of the disease in a north Indian population. Hence, we studied the differences in clinical spectrum and renal outcomes between adult‐onset HSP and childhood‐onset HSP.

Methods

Case records of all adult patients diagnosed with HSP (onset ≥ 18 years) over the last 25 years in our department (1992–2017) were retrieved. Data on clinical features, lab abnormalities and outcomes were extracted and compared with that in pediatric HSP patients (onset < 18 years) seen during the same period.

Results

A total of 87 patients, including 30 adults and 57 children, were seen during this period. Compared to children, most of the adults had purpura as the first clinical manifestation (86.7% vs. 56.1%, P < 0.01) whereas abdominal pain was only rarely the initial symptom in adults (10.0% vs. 36.8%, P < 0.02). During the disease course, adults had a higher frequency of joint involvement as compared to children (90.0% vs. 43.9%, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the frequency of renal involvement (60.0% vs. 50.9%, P = NS) and gastrointestinal involvement (66.7% vs. 84.2%, P = NS) between adults and children. Outcomes were good in both groups and most adults and children achieved complete recovery (83.3% and 86.0%, respectively). There was no difference in the frequency of immunosuppressive treatment required by the two groups. None of the patients developed renal insufficiency on follow‐up.

Conclusion

Compared to children, adults with HSP seldom have abdominal pain as the first clinical manifestation while joint involvement is seen more commonly in them during the disease course.
Monogenic interferonopathies: Phenotypic and genotypic findings of CANDLE syndrome and its overlap with C1q deficient SLE.
Authors: Al‐Mayouf Sulaiman M. , AlSaleem Alhanouf , AlMutairi Nora , AlSonbul Abdullah , Alzaid Tariq , Alazami Anas M. , Al‐Mousa Hamoud
Published: November 2017

Objective

To report the clinical and genetic features of the first cases of chronic atypical neutrophilic dermatosis with lipodystrophy and elevated temperature (CANDLE) syndrome in an Arab population and to compare them with patients of C1q deficient systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective case series of patients with CANDLE syndrome and C1q deficient SLE seen at a single tertiary hospital. Medical records were reviewed for demographic data, clinical and laboratory features, histopathology and imaging findings, and response to therapeutic intervention. Descriptive data were summarized.

Results

Three patients from unrelated families fulfilled the clinical manifestations of CANDLE syndrome. The disease onset was within the first 4 months of age. Two patients had uncommon features including uveitis, pulmonary involvement, aseptic meningitis and global delay. Skin biopsy showed heterogeneous findings. Genomic DNA screening was homozygous for mutation in PSMB8, (NM_004159.4:c.212C>T, p.T71M) in one patient and inconclusive for the other two patients. The comparison group was three patients with familial C1q deficient SLE from three unrelated families, who were born to consanguineous parents with at least one affected sibling. They presented with extensive mucocutaneous lesions, discoid rash and scarring alopecia. They required frequent admissions due to infections.

Conclusion

This is the first report of CANDLE syndrome in an Arab population; our patients had heterogeneous phenotypic and genetic features with overlap manifestations with C1q deficient SLE. Both are monogenic interferonopathies. However, C1q deficient SLE had more systemic inflammatory disease.
Suicide attempt predicted by academic performance and childhood IQ: a cohort study of 26 000 children
Authors: Sörberg Wallin A. , Zeebari Z. , Lager A. , Gunnell D. , Allebeck P. , Falkstedt D.
Published: November 2017

Objective

Academic performance in youth, measured by grade point average (GPA), predicts suicide attempt, but the mechanisms are not known. It has been suggested that general intelligence might underlie the association.

Methods

We followed 26 315 Swedish girls and boys in population‐representative cohorts, up to maximum 46 years of age, for the first suicide attempt in hospital records. Associations between GPA at age 16, IQ measured in school at age 13 and suicide attempt were investigated in Cox regressions and mediation analyses.

Results

There was a clear graded association between lower GPA and subsequent suicide attempt. With control for potential confounders, those in the lowest GPA quartile had a near five‐fold risk (HR 4.9, 95% CI 3.7–6.7) compared to those in the highest quartile. In a mediation analysis, the association between GPA and suicide attempt was robust, while the association between IQ and suicide attempt was fully mediated by GPA.

Conclusions

Poor academic performance in compulsory school, at age 16, was a robust predictor of suicide attempt past young adulthood and seemed to account for the association between lower childhood IQ and suicide attempt.
Molecular targets for the therapy of cancer associated with metabolic syndrome (transcription and growth factors)
Authors: Yunusova Natalia V. , Kondakova Irina V. , Kolomiets Larisa A. , Afanas'ev Sergey G. , Chernyshova Alena L. , Kudryavtsev Igor V. , Tsydenova Anastasia A.
Published: November 2017

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is one of the leading risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes mellitus and reproductive system diseases. Currently, not only cardiovascular disease and reproductive history risks related with MS are frequently discussed, but it has been also shown that MS is associated with increased risk of some common cancers (endometrial cancer, postmenopausal breast cancer, colorectal cancer, biliary tract cancers and liver cancer for men). Further studies are required to understand the mechanisms of the involvement of MS components in the pathogenesis of malignant neoplasms. Changes in the expression of transcription and growth factors in the peripheral tissues as well as in cancer tissues of patients with MS were revealed. Transcription factors (AMP‐activated protein kinase‐1, STAT3, sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1 and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ), leptin and adiponectin receptors seem to be the most promising molecular targets for the therapy of cancers associated with MS.
Comparison between site and central radiological assessments for patients with recurrent glioblastoma on a clinical trial
Authors: Field Kathryn M. , Fitt Greg , Rosenthal Mark A. , Simes John , Nowak Anna K. , Barnes Elizabeth H. , Sawkins Kate , Goh Christine , Moffat Bradford A. , Salinas Simon , Cher Lawrence , Wheeler Helen , Hovey Elizabeth J. , Phal Pramit M. ,   CABARET/COGNO Investigators
Published: November 2017

Aim

Assessment of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in glioblastoma can be challenging. For patients with recurrent glioblastoma managed on the CABARET trial, we compared disease status assessed at hospitals and subsequent blinded central expert radiological review.

Methods

MRI results and clinical status at specified time points were used for site and central assessment of disease status. Clinical status was determined by the site. Response Assessment in Neuro‐Oncology (RANO) criteria were used for both assessments. Site and central assessments of progression‐free survival (PFS) and response rates were compared. Inter‐rater variability for central review progression dates was assessed.

Results

Central review resulted in shorter PFS in 45% of 89 evaluable patients (n = 40). Median PFS was 3.6 (central) versus 3.9 months (site) (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.3–1.8, P < 0.001). Responses were documented more frequently by sites (n = 16, 18%) than centrally (n = 11, 12%). Seven of 120 patients continued on trial without site‐determined progression for more than 6 months beyond the central review determination of progression. Of scans reviewed by all three central reviewers, 33% were fully concordant for progression date.

Conclusion

While the difference between site and central PFS dates was statistically significant, the 0.3‐month median difference is small. The variability within central review is consistent with previous studies, highlighting the challenges in MRI interpretation in this context. A small proportion of patients benefited from treatment well beyond the centrally determined progression date, reinforcing that clinical status together with radiology results are important determinants of whether a therapy is effective for an individual.
Effects of foetal growth restriction and preterm birth on cardiac morphology and function during infancy
Authors: Cohen Emily , Whatley Christie , Wong Flora Y. , Wallace Euan M. , Mockler Joanne C. , Odoi Alexsandria , Hollis Samantha , Horne Rosemary S. C. , Yiallourou Stephanie R.
Published: November 2017

Aim

To investigate the effects of foetal growth restriction (FGR) and prematurity on cardiac morphology and function in infancy. We hypothesised that FGR and prematurity would both alter cardiac development.

Methods

Cardiac morphology and function were evaluated in 24 preterm FGR infants (p‐FGR) and 23 preterm and 19 term appropriately grown for gestational age infants (p‐AGA and t‐AGA, respectively) by conventional echocardiography and Tissue Doppler Imaging. p‐FGR and p‐AGA infants were studied on postnatal day 1 and all groups were studied at one‐and six‐months post‐term age.

Results

p‐FGR infants demonstrated increased cardiac sphericity compared to AGA peers on postnatal day 1 (p = 0.004) and at one‐month post‐term age (p = 0.004). Posterior and relative wall thickness increased overtime in the p‐FGR group only (p < 0.05). Systolic function was not different between groups. E/e’ ratio was higher in both preterm groups compared to the term group at one‐month post‐term age (p = 0.01). No statistically significant group differences were found at six‐months post‐term age.

Conclusion

Foetal growth restriction was associated with subtle cardiac morphological changes, whereas both prematurity and FGR were associated with subclinical alterations in diastolic function.
Risk factors for biopsy‐proven advanced non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Patel Y. A. , Gifford E. J. , Glass L. M. , McNeil R. , Turner M. J. , Han B. , Provenzale D. , Choi S. S. , Moylan C. A. , Hunt C. M.
Published: November 2017

Background

With its increasing incidence, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is of particular concern in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Aims

To evaluate risk factors for advanced fibrosis in biopsy‐proven NAFLD in the VHA, to identify patients at risk for adverse outcomes.

Methods

In randomly selected cases from VHA databases (2005‐2015), we performed a retrospective case‐control study in adults with biopsy‐defined NAFLD or normal liver.

Results

Of 2091 patients reviewed, 399 met inclusion criteria. Normal controls (n = 65) had normal liver function. The four NAFLD cohorts included: NAFL steatosis (n = 76), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) without fibrosis (n = 68), NAFLD/NASH stage 1‐3 fibrosis (n = 82), and NAFLD/NASH cirrhosis (n = 70). NAFLD with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was separately identified (n = 38). Most patients were older White men. NAFLD patients with any fibrosis were on average severely obese (BMI>35 kg/m2). Diabetes (54.4%‐79.6%) and hypertension (85.8%‐100%) were more common in NAFLD with fibrosis or HCC. Across NAFLD, 12.3%‐19.5% were enrolled in diet/exercise programs and 0%‐2.6% had bariatric surgery. Hispanics exhibited higher rates of NASH (20.6%), while Blacks had low NAFLD rates (1.4%‐11.8%), particularly NAFLD cirrhosis and HCC (1.4%‐2.6%). Diabetes (OR 11.8, P < .001) and BMI (OR 1.4, P < .001) were the most significant predictors of advanced fibrosis.

Conclusions

In the VHA, diabetes and severe obesity increased risk for advanced fibrosis in NAFLD. Of these patients, only a small proportion (~20%) had enrolled in diet/exercise programs or had bariatric surgery (~2%). These results suggest that providers should focus/tailor interventions to improve outcomes, particularly in those with diabetes and severe obesity.