bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytological diagnosis of a rare case of primary Merkel cell carcinoma of the parotid gland
Authors: Bizzarro T. , Buda R. , Ricci M. , Bernardi L.
Published: October 2017

In this case report, the authors describe the cytological features of a primary Merkel cell carcinoma of the parotid gland and discuss how the diagnosis was confirmed with immunocytochemistry.
Preoperative weight loss with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist treatment predicts greater weight loss achieved by the combination of medical weight management and bariatric surgery in patients with type 2 diabetes: A longitudinal analysis
Authors: Tang Tien , Abbott Sally , le Roux Carel W. , Wilson Violet , Singhal Rishi , Bellary Srikanth , Tahrani Abd A.
Published: October 2017

We examined the relationship between weight changes after preoperative glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) treatment and weight changes from the start of medical weight management (MWM) until 12 months after bariatric surgery in patients with type 2 diabetes in a retrospective cohort study. A total of 45 patients (64.4% women, median [interquartile range] age 49 [45‐60] years) were included. The median (interquartile range) weight loss from start of MWM until 12 months post‐surgery was 17.9% (13.0%‐29.3%). GLP‐1RA treatment during MWM resulted in 5.0% (1.9%‐7.7%) weight loss. Weight loss during GLP‐1RA treatment predicted weight loss from the start of MWM until 12 months post‐surgery, but not postoperative weight loss after adjustment. The proportion of weight loss from start of MWM to 12 months post‐surgery attributed to GLP‐1RA treatment was negatively associated with that attributed to surgery, after adjustment. In conclusion, weight change after GLP‐1RA treatment predicted the weight loss achieved by a combination of MWM and bariatric surgery, but not weight loss induced by surgery only. Failure to lose weight after GLP‐1RA treatment should not be considered a barrier to undergoing bariatric surgery.
Exploring opportunities to support mental health care using social media: A survey of social media users with mental illness
Authors: Naslund John A. , Aschbrenner Kelly A. , McHugo Gregory J. , Unützer Jürgen , Marsch Lisa A. , Bartels Stephen J.
Published: October 2017

Aim

Social media holds promise for expanding the reach of mental health services, especially for young people who frequently use these popular platforms. We surveyed social media users who self‐identified as having a mental illness to learn about their use of social media for mental health and to identify opportunities to augment existing mental health services.

Methods

We asked 240 Twitter users who self‐identified in their profile as having a mental illness to participate in an online survey. The survey was in English and inquired about participants’ mental health condition, use of social media for mental health and interest in accessing mental health programs delivered through social media.

Results

Respondents from 10 countries completed 135 surveys. Most respondents were from the United States (54%), Canada (22%) and the United Kingdom (17%) and reported a psychiatric diagnosis of either schizophrenia spectrum disorder (27%), bipolar disorder (25%), major depressive disorder (16%) or depression (20%). Young adults age ≤35 (46%) were more likely to use Instagram (P = .002), Snapchat (P < .001) and their mobile phone for accessing social media (P < .001) compared to adults age 36 and older (53%). Most participants (85%) expressed interest in mental health programs delivered through social media, especially to promote overall health and wellbeing (72%) and for coping with mental health symptoms (90%).

Conclusions

This exploratory study demonstrates the feasibility of reaching social media users with mental illness and can inform efforts to leverage social media to make evidence‐based mental health services more widely available to those in need.
Cortical superficial siderosis and acute convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage in cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Authors: Raposo N. , Calviere L. , Cazzola V. , Planton M. , Patsoura S. , Wargny M. , Albucher J. F. , Sommet A. , Olivot J. M. , Chollet F. , Pariente J. , Bonneville F. , Viguier A.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

Acute convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage (cSAH) and cortical superficial siderosis (cSS) are neuroimaging markers of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) that may arise through similar mechanisms. The prevalence of cSS in patients with CAA presenting with acute cSAH versus lobar intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) was compared and the physiopathology of cSS was explored by examining neuroimaging associations.

Methods

Data from 116 consecutive patients with probable CAA (mean age, 77.4 ± 7.3 years) presenting with acute cSAH (n = 45) or acute lobar ICH (n = 71) were retrospectively analyzed. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were analyzed for cSS and other imaging markers. The two groups’ clinical and imaging data were compared and the associations between cSAH and cSS were explored.

Results

Patients with cSAH presented mostly with transient focal neurological episodes. The prevalence of cSS was higher amongst cSAH patients than amongst ICH patients (88.9% vs. 57.7%; P < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, focal [odds ratio (OR) 6.73; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.75–25.81; P = 0.005] and disseminated (OR 11.68; 95% CI 3.55–38.35; P < 0.001) cSS were independently associated with acute cSAH, whereas older age (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.87–0.99; P = 0.025) and chronic lobar ICH count (OR 0.45; 95% CI 0.25–0.80; P = 0.007) were associated with acute lobar ICH.

Conclusions

Amongst patients with CAA, cSS is independently associated with acute cSAH. These findings suggest that cSAH may be involved in the pathogenesis of the cSS observed in CAA. Longitudinal studies are warranted to assess this potential causal relationship.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia in patients with ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack
Authors: Toell T. , Mayer L. , Pechlaner R. , Krebs S. , Willeit K. , Lang C. , Boehme C. , Prantl B. , Knoflach M. , Ferrari J. , Fuchs P. , Prokop W. , Griesmacher A. , Lang W. , Kiechl S. , Willeit J.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

Identification of patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a prerequisite for the appropriate management of their excess cardiovascular risk. It is currently unknown how many patients with acute ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) are affected by FH and whether systematic screening for FH is warranted in these patients.

Methods

The prevalence of a clinical diagnosis of FH was estimated in a large representative series of patients with acute ischaemic stroke or TIA (ABCD2 score ≥ 3) using the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Algorithm (DLCNA; possible FH ≥3, probable/definite FH ≥6).

Results

Out of 1054 patients included in the present analysis, 14 had probable/definite FH (1.3%; 95% confidence interval 0.6–2.0) and 107 possible FH (10.2%; 8.4–12.0) corresponding to an overall prevalence of potential FH of 11.5%. Prevalences were even higher in patients with stroke/TIA manifestation before age 55 in men or 60 in women (3.1%, 0.6–5.6; and 13.1%, 8.3–17.9) and those with a prior history of cardiovascular disease (2.6%, 0.9–4.3; and 15.1%, 11.3–18.9). Of note, in two‐thirds of our patients with probable/definite and possible FH, stroke or TIA was the initial clinical disease manifestation.

Conclusions

The frequency of potential FH, based on clinical criteria, in patients with acute ischaemic stroke or TIA was 11.5% and that of probable/definite FH (1.3%) was similar to recently reported counts for patients with acute coronary syndrome (1.6%). FH screening using the DLCNA is feasible in clinical routine and should be considered as part of the usual diagnostic work‐up.
Epidemiological patterns of tick‐borne encephalitis in Lithuania and clinical features in adults in the light of the high incidence in recent years: a retrospective study
Authors: Radzišauskienė D. , Žagminas K. , Ašoklienė L. , Jasionis A. , Mameniškienė R. , Ambrozaitis A. , Jančorienė L. , Jatužis D. , Petraitytė I. , Mockienė E.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

Lithuania is one of the countries with the highest incidence of tick‐borne encephalitis (TBE) in Europe. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological patterns of TBE in Lithuania, and characterize clinical features in adults in the light of the high incidence in recent years.

Methods

Surveillance data available on the website of the Centre for Communicable Diseases and AIDS of Lithuania were used to describe the epidemiological patterns of TBE. The retrospective study included 712 patients hospitalized in the Centre for Infectious Diseases and the Centre for Neurology of Vilnius University in the years 2005–2014.

Results

Tick‐borne encephalitis incidence rates have been increasing by 8.5% per year for the 45‐year period from 1970 to 2014. The joinpoint model finds two joinpoints at 1991 and 1994, with a significant decrease of 8.4% per year (P < 0.05) prior to the joinpoint at 1991, and a rise of 195.2% afterwards. TBE presented with meningoencephalitis in 556 cases (81.3%). A total of 129 patients (18%) had a severe case of the disease. The most common neurological signs were ataxia (579, 81.3%), meningeal signs (474, 66.5%) and tremor (338, 47.5%). Limb paresis was observed in 6.3% of patients. Five patients (0.7%) died, and 544 patients (76.7%) were discharged with sequelae.

Conclusions

Intensified efforts in promoting TBE vaccination will be needed in the light of the high incidence and expanded spatial distribution. Significant prognostic factors for severe cases of the disease were age above 61 and delayed immune response of specific immunoglobulin G.
Quality and reporting of guidelines on the diagnosis and management of dystonia
Authors: Tamás G. , Abrantes C. , Valadas A. , Radics P. , Albanese A. , Tijssen M. A. J. , Ferreira J. J.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

The quality of clinical practice guidelines on dystonia has not yet been assessed. Our aim was to appraise the methodological quality of guidelines worldwide and to analyze the consistency of their recommendations.

Methods

We searched for clinical practice guidelines on dystonia diagnosis/treatment in the National Guideline Clearinghouse, PubMed, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Guidelines International Network and Web of Science databases. We also searched for guidelines on homepages of international neurological societies. We asked for guidelines from every Management Committee member of the BM1101 Action of the Cooperation between Science and Technology European framework and every member of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorders Society with special interest in dystonia.

Results

Fifteen guidelines were evaluated. Among guidelines on treatment, only one from the American Academy of Neurology could be considered as high quality. Among guidelines on diagnosis and therapy, the guideline from the European Federation of Neurological Societies was recommended by the appraisers. Clinical applicability and reports of editorial independence were the greatest shortcomings. The rigor of development was poor and stakeholder involvement was also incomplete in most guidelines. Discrepancies among recommendations may result from the weight given to consensus statements and expert opinions due to the lack of evidence, as well as inaccuracy of disease classification.

Conclusions

The quality of appraised guidelines was low. It is necessary to improve the quality of guidelines on dystonia, and the applied terminology of dystonia also needs to be standardized.
No time to hesitate in acute in‐hospital stroke!
Authors: Fromm A.
Published: October 2017

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this volume.
Distinct predictive role of collateral status on clinical outcome in variant stroke subtypes of acute large arterial occlusion
Authors: Zhang X. , Zhang M. , Ding W. , Yan S. , Liebeskind D. S. , Lou M.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

Clinical trials have shown that robust collateral flow has a relationship with good clinical outcome; however, different stroke subtypes were lumped together. This study explored the relationship between baseline collaterals and the onset‐to‐imaging time (OIT) and the correlation between pre‐treatment collateral status and clinical outcome amongst different subtypes.

Method

Prospectively collected data from consecutive acute ischaemic stroke patients with acute middle cerebral artery occlusion who received reperfusion therapy were reviewed. The regional leptomeningeal score (20 points) was based on the scoring extent of contrast opacification in the six Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) cortical regions (M1–6), parasagittal anterior cerebral artery territory and the basal ganglia by perfusion‐derived dynamic four‐dimensional computed tomography angiography (4D CTA). Stroke subtype was determined by the TOAST classification criteria. A 3‐months modified Rankin Scale score of 0–2 was defined as a good outcome.

Results

The analysis included 158 patients: 30 (19.0%) patients had large artery atherosclerotic stroke (LAA), 87 (55.1%) cardioembolic stroke (CE) and 41 (25.9%) stroke of undetermined etiology. Baseline collateral was negatively correlated with OIT (P = 0.0205) in the CE group after adjusting for female sex, smoking, hyperlipidemia, baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and baseline mismatch ratio, but not in the LAA group. Baseline collateral showed a strong relationship with good clinical outcome after adjusting for recanalization, baseline NIHSS, age and female sex (odds ratio 1.120, confidence interval 1.013–1.238, P = 0.027) in all patients and in the CE group (odds ratio 3.223, confidence interval 1.212–8.570, P = 0.019), but not in the LAA patients.

Conclusions

Based on 4D CTA, sustained good leptomeningeal collaterals may predict good outcome in CE but not in LAA patients. Moreover, the extent of collaterals was associated with OIT in the CE patients, which indicates prompt reperfusion therapy in this group of patients.
Serum complement levels in anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor encephalitis
Authors: Shu Y. , Chen C. , Chen Y. , Xu Y. , Chang Y. , Li R. , Sun X. , Peng L. , Lu Z. , Qiu W.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum complement and anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis.

Methods

Serum complement (C3, C4 and CH50), immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM and IgA) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were evaluated in 40 patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis and 40 controls. Follow‐up evaluations of 11 of the 40 patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis were conducted 6 months after admission. Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores and clinical and cerebrospinal fluid parameters were evaluated in patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis.

Results

Serum C4 levels were significantly higher in patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis than in controls (P = 0.003), especially in female patients (P = 0.001) and those with severe impairment (mRS ≥ 4; P < 0.001). Serum CH50 levels were significantly higher in patients with severe impairment (P = 0.007) and limited treatment responses (P = 0.007). Serum C4 was associated with C3 (r = 0.506, P = 0.001), CH50 (r = 0.478, P = 0.002) and mRS score (r = 0.607, P < 0.001). Serum C3 was associated with CH50 (r = 0.339, P = 0.032) and cerebrospinal fluid white blood cells (r = 0.351, P = 0.026). Serum CH50 was associated with age, mRS score and CRP. Follow‐up evaluations revealed that mRS scores were significantly lower than those before treatment, and a significant negative correlation was observed between the change in C3 levels and the change in mRS score.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that serum C4 levels were elevated and associated with C3, CH50 and CRP levels, and disease severity in patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis.
Internal aorto‐iliac thrombosis in a Thoroughbred: Unsuccessful surgical thrombectomy, a proposed aetiopathogenesis and spontaneous partial regression
Authors: Lloyd K. A. , Vallance S. A. , Denton M. J. , Steel C. M.
Published: October 2017

A 4‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding with severe left hindlimb lameness and colic‐like signs lasting 30–60 min post‐exercise was diagnosed with unilateral internal aorto‐iliac thrombosis. The thrombus was identified using transrectal ultrasonography in the terminal aorta and was initially thought to extend into the left external iliac artery. However, attempted thrombectomy via a left femoral arteriotomy performed under general anaesthesia using thrombectomy and angioplasty catheters was unsuccessful, as the thrombus was located in the left internal iliac artery. Transrectal ultrasound evaluation was repeated monthly for 12 months post‐operatively during which time the gelding remained asymptomatic at rest. As removal of thrombi in the external but not internal iliac artery may be possible, correct diagnosis of the location of the thrombus is critical in preventing unnecessary attempts at surgical correction. The aetiology remains unknown, but altered haemodynamics within the abdominal aorta with mechanical stresses during intense exercise are proposed as a cause of thrombus formation. The sequential monitoring of this case also conflicts the assumption that thrombi in this location propagate over time as partial regression was observed 6 months after referral and 9 months after onset of clinical signs.
Bloody urine – the list of differential diagnoses lengthens, but diagnostics remain the same
Authors: Schumacher John , Schumacher James
Published: October 2017

The cause of haematuria often can be surmised based on a horse's signalment, recent history, and clinical signs that may accompany haematuria. The site, if not the cause, of haemorrhage can sometimes be revealed by examining that portion of the urinary tract palpable per rectum, by endoscopically examining the urethra and bladder, or by ultrasonographically examining the kidneys. When cystolithiasis or urethrolithiasis is determined to be the cause of haematuria, further examination is indicated to identify disease of one or both kidneys that might have precipitated formation of the urolith. Contrast‐enhanced, cross‐sectional imaging of the abdomen of small equids might be of value when a vascular anomaly of a kidney is suspected. Neoplastic cells can sometimes be found in the urine of horses suffering from neoplasia of the bladder or in peritoneal fluid of horses suffering from renal neoplasia. When a kidney is determined to be the source of haemorrhage, urine can be obtained for bacterial culture and cytological examination by passing tubing through the biopsy port of an endoscope into the ureter draining the kidney in question. Histological examination of tissue obtained by biopsy of the kidney or the mucosa of the bladder may be indicated when neoplasia of one of these organs is suspected. Immunohistochemical examination of endoscopically obtained tissue from a cystic carcinoma can identify whether the neoplastic cells expressCOX‐2 receptors, thereby determining if treating the horse with aCOX‐2 selectiveNSAIDmight be effective.
Increase in proapoptotic activity of inhibitory PAS domain protein via phosphorylation by MK2
Authors: Kasai Shuya , Richardson Mary J. E. , Torii Satoru , Yasumoto Ken‐ichi , Shima Hiroki , Igarashi Kazuhiko , Itoh Ken , Sogawa Kazuhiro , Murayama Kazutaka
Published: October 2017

Inhibitory PAS domain protein (IPAS) is a bifunctional protein that downregulates hypoxic gene expression and exerts proapoptotic activity by preventing prosurvival activity of Bcl‐xL and its related factors. Proapoptotic activity of IPAS is attenuated by the activation of the PINK1‐Parkin pathway, and involved in neuronal degeneration in an experimental mouse model of Parkinson's disease. The current study shows that phosphorylation of IPAS at Ser184 by MAPK‐activated protein kinase 2 (MK2 or MAPKAPK2) enhances the proapoptotic function of IPAS. Perinuclear clustering of mitochondria and activation of caspase‐3 caused by the transient expression of EGFP‐IPAS were increased by UVB irradiation. The C‐terminal region of IPAS mediated the UVB susceptibility of IPAS. Increase in IPAS‐induced mitochondrial clustering by UVB was completly inhibited by the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580. Mass spectrometry analysis of UVB‐activated IPAS identified several phosphorylation sites in the C‐terminal region containing p38 MAPK consensus phosphorylation sites at Ser219 and Ser223, and an MK2 consensus site at Ser184. Although mutations of Ser219 and Ser223 to Ala did not suppress the UVB‐induced mitochondrial clustering, replacement of Ser184 with Ala blocked it. A phosphomimetic substitution at Ser184 enhanced mitochondrial clustering and activation of caspase‐3 without UVB exposure. Furthermore, binding affinity to Bcl‐xL was increased by the mutation. Treatment of PC12 cells with CoCl2 caused activation of MK2 and mitochondrial clustering. IPAS‐dependent cell death induced by CoCl2 in PC12 cells was decreased by the treatment with the MK2 inhibitor MK2 inhibitor III and by siRNA‐directed silencing of MK2.
The contribution of alternative splicing to genetic risk for psychiatric disorders
Authors: Reble E. , Dineen A. , Barr C. L.
Published: October 2017

A genetic contribution to psychiatric disorders has clearly been established and genome‐wide association studies now provide the location of risk genes and genetic variants associated with risk. However, the mechanism by which these genes and variants contribute to psychiatric disorders is mostly undetermined. This is in part because non‐synonymous protein coding changes cannot explain the majority of variants associated with complex genetic traits. Based on this, it is predicted that these variants are causing gene expression changes, including changes to alternative splicing. Genetic changes influencing alternative splicing have been identified as risk factors in Mendelian disorders; however, currently there is a paucity of research on the role of alternative splicing in complex traits. This stems partly from the difficulty of predicting the role of genetic variation in splicing. Alterations to canonical splice site sequences, nucleotides adjacent to splice junctions, and exonic and intronic splicing regulatory sequences can influence splice site choice. Recent studies have identified global changes in alternatively spliced transcripts in brain tissues, some of which correlate with altered levels of splicing trans factors. Disease‐associated variants have also been found to affect cis‐acting splicing regulatory sequences and alter the ratio of alternatively spliced transcripts. These findings are reviewed here, as well as the current datasets and resources available to study alternative splicing in psychiatric disorders. Identifying and understanding risk variants that cause alternative splicing is critical to understanding the mechanisms of risk as well as to pave the way for new therapeutic options.
Behavioral control by striatal adenosine A2A‐dopamine D2 receptor heteromers
Authors: Taura J. , Valle‐León M. , Sahlholm K. , Watanabe M. , Van Craenenbroeck K. , Fernández‐Dueñas V. , Ferré S. , Ciruela F.
Published: October 2017

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCR) exhibit the ability to form receptor complexes that include molecularly different GPCR (ie, GPCR heteromers), which endow them with singular functional and pharmacological characteristics. The relative expression of GPCR heteromers remains a matter of intense debate. Recent studies support that adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) and dopamine D2 receptors (D2R) predominantly form A2AR‐D2R heteromers in the striatum. The aim of the present study was evaluating the behavioral effects of pharmacological manipulation and genetic blockade of A2AR and D2R within the frame of such a predominant striatal heteromeric population. First, in order to avoid possible strain‐related differences, a new D2R‐deficient mouse with the same genetic background (CD‐1) than the A2AR knock‐out mouse was generated. Locomotor activity, pre‐pulse inhibition (PPI) and drug‐induced catalepsy were then evaluated in wild‐type, A2AR and D2R knock‐out mice, with and without the concomitant administration of either the D2R agonist sumanirole or the A2AR antagonist SCH442416. SCH442416‐mediated locomotor effects were demonstrated to be dependent on D2R signaling. Similarly, a significant dependence on A2AR signaling was observed for PPI and for haloperidol‐induced catalepsy. The results could be explained by the existence of one main population of striatal postsynaptic A2AR‐D2R heteromers, which may constitute a relevant target for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
European butterfly populations vary in sensitivity to weather across their geographical ranges
Authors: Mills Simon C. , Oliver Tom H. , Bradbury Richard B. , Gregory Richard D. , Brereton Tom , Kühn Elisabeth , Kuussaari Mikko , Musche Martin , Roy David B. , Schmucki Reto , Stefanescu Constantí , van Swaay Chris , Evans Karl L.
Published: October 2017

Aim

The aim was to assess the sensitivity of butterfly population dynamics to variation in weather conditions across their geographical ranges, relative to sensitivity to density dependence, and determine whether sensitivity is greater towards latitudinal range margins.

Location

Europe.

Time period

1980–2014.

Major taxa studied

Butterflies.

Methods

We use long‐term (35 years) butterfly monitoring data from > 900 sites, ranging from Finland to Spain, grouping sites into 2° latitudinal bands. For 12 univoltine butterfly species with sufficient data from at least four bands, we construct population growth rate models that include density dependence, temperature and precipitation during distinct life‐cycle periods, defined to accommodate regional variation in phenology. We use partialR2values as indicators of butterfly population dynamics' sensitivity to weather and density dependence, and assess how these vary with latitudinal position within a species' distribution.

Results

Population growth rates appear uniformly sensitive to density dependence across species' geographical distributions, and sensitivity to density dependence is typically greater than sensitivity to weather. Sensitivity to weather is greatest towards range edges, with symmetry in northern and southern parts of the range. This pattern is not driven by variation in the magnitude of weather variability across the range, topographic heterogeneity, latitudinal range extent or phylogeny. Significant weather variables in population growth rate models appear evenly distributed across the life cycle and across temperature and precipitation, with substantial intraspecific variation across the geographical ranges in the associations between population dynamics and specific weather variables.

Main conclusions

Range‐edge populations appear more sensitive to changes in weather than those nearer the centre of species' distributions, but density dependence does not exhibit this pattern. Precipitation is as important as temperature in driving butterfly population dynamics. Intraspecific variation in the form and strength of sensitivity to weather suggests that there may be important geographical variation in populations' responses to climate change.
Effects of forest degradation on microbial communities and soil carbon cycling: A global meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Zhenghu , Wang Chuankuan , Luo Yiqi
Published: October 2017

Aim

The aim was to explore how conversions of primary or secondary forests to plantations or agricultural systems influence soil microbial communities and soil carbon (C) cycling.

Location

Global.

Time period

1993–2017.

Major taxa studied

Soil microbes.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was conducted to examine effects of forest degradation on soil properties and microbial attributes related to microbial biomass, activity, community composition and diversity based on 408 cases from 119 studies in the world.

Results

Forest degradation decreased the ratios of K‐strategists to r‐strategists (i.e., ratios of fungi to bacteria, Acidobacteria to Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria to Bacteroidetes and Acidobacteria + Actinobacteria to Proteobacteria + Bacteroidetes). The response ratios (RRs) of the K‐strategist to r‐strategist ratios to forest degradation decreased and increased with increased RRs of soil pH and soil C to nitrogen ratio (C:N), respectively. Forest degradation increased the bacterial alpha‐diversity indexes, of which the RRs increased and decreased as the RRs of soil pH and soil C:N increased, respectively. The overall RRs across all the forest degradation types ranked as microbial C (−40.4%) > soil C (−33.3%) > microbial respiration (−18.9%) > microbial C to soil C ratio (qMBC; −15.9%), leading to the RRs of microbial respiration rate per unit microbial C (qCO2) and soil C decomposition rate (respiration rate per unit soil C), on average, increasing by +43.2 and +25.0%, respectively. Variances of the RRs of qMBC and qCO2 were significantly explained by the soil C, soil C:N and mean annual precipitation.

Main conclusions

Forest degradation consistently shifted soil microbial community compositions from K‐strategist dominated to r‐strategist dominated, altered soil properties and stimulated microbial activity and soil C decomposition. These results are important for modelling the soil C cycling under projected global land‐use changes and provide supportive evidence for applying the macroecology theory on ecosystem succession and disturbance in soil microbial ecology.
Relationship between chronic kidney disease without diabetes mellitus and components of frailty in community‐dwelling Japanese older adults
Authors: Lee Sungchul , Lee Sangyoon , Bae Seongryu , Harada Kazuhiro , Jung Songee , Imaoka Masakazu , Makizako Hyuma , Doi Takehiko , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: October 2017

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between kidney function without diabetes and components of the frailty phenotype in community‐dwelling Japanese older adults.

Methods

Participants were 8343 residents who completed baseline assessments, classified into four categories according to eGFR. Frailty status was defined using five criteria: (i) slow gait speed; (ii) muscle weakness; (iii) low physical activity; (iv) exhaustion; and (v) unintentional weight loss.

Results

After multivariate adjustment, participants with the lowest kidney function were at higher risk of frailty (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.02–3.50) than those with normal kidney function. In addition, after adjustment for multiple confounders, estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 was associated with a greater risk of the individual frailty components of weight loss (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.11–4.12), low physical activity (OR 1.35, 95% CI, 1.01–2.54) and slowness (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.36–3.77) compared with estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥60.

Conclusions

Lower kidney function was associated with a higher risk of weight loss, low physical activity and slowness among community‐dwelling Japanese older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 286–292.
Cross‐cultural adaptation and validation of the Comprehensive Frailty Assessment Instrument in Chinese community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Qiao Xiaoxia , Wang Cuili , Tian Xiaoyu , Dong Lijuan , Liu Na , Jin Yaru , Si Huaxin
Published: October 2017

Aim

To cross‐culturally adapt and validate the Comprehensive Frailty Assessment Instrument (CFAI) among Chinese community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

The Chinese CFAI was developed through forward–backward translations. An urban sample of 1235 community‐dwelling older adults received face‐to‐face interviews to examine the validity (construct validity and criterion validity) and reliability (internal consistency and test–retest reliability).

Results

The Chinese CFAI achieved semantic and idiomatic equivalence, and showed acceptable reliability and an expected factor structure, except for the social support domain. The exploratory factor analysis extracted five factors explaining 53.8% of the total variance of frailty. The confirmatory factor analysis showed that the data fit well to the second‐order factor theoretical model, with a root mean square error of approximation of 0.05, Tucker‐Lewis Index of 0.93 and Comparative Fit Index of 0.95. The receiver operating characteristic analysis presented an acceptable criterion validity using the Rockwood Frailty Index as an external criterion (area under the curve 0.80), with balanced sensitivity (65.31%) and specificity (81.19%) at the optimal 39‐point frailty cut‐off of the CFAI.

Conclusions

The Chinese CFAI has good validity and reliability as a practical frailty measure in Chinese community‐dwelling older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 301–307.
Relationship between physical activity levels and depressive symptoms in community‐dwelling older Japanese adults
Authors: Jung Songee , Lee Sangyoon , Lee Sungchul , Bae Seongryu , Imaoka Masakazu , Harada Kazuhiro , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: October 2017

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between physical activity (PA) and depressive symptoms in community‐dwelling older Japanese adults.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study design was used to obtain data from 3191 community‐dwelling older Japanese adults aged 70–95 years. Depressive symptoms were assessed using self‐reported scores on the Geriatric Depression Scale‐15. PA was objectively measured using an accelerometer worn for a maximum of 40 days, and average daily durations of light‐intensity PA (LPA), moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) and step count were calculated. PA was compared between participants with and without depressive symptoms by carrying out analysis of covariance and multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for all covariates by using propensity scores.

Results

Depressive symptoms were present in 598 participants (19.6%). A comparison of propensity‐score adjusted PA showed that step count (5059.6 ± 53.7 vs 5003.0 ± 112.1 count/day; P = 0.652) and moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity PA duration (23.0 ± 0.4 vs 23.8 ± 0.7 min/day; P = 0.358) were not significantly different between participants with and without depressive symptoms, respectively. However, participants without depressive symptoms had a significantly higher LPA duration than those with depressive symptoms (39.4 ± 0.3 vs 37.3 ± 0.7 min/day, respectively; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The present results suggest that individuals with lower LPA have a higher risk of depressive symptoms. These findings imply that PA recommendations, especially for older adults, should emphasize LPA, which appears to be especially effective at preventing depressive symptoms. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 421–427.
A concept analysis of the term migrant women in the context of pregnancy
Authors: Balaam Marie‐Clare , Haith‐Cooper Melanie , Pařízková Alena , Weckend Marina Joanna , Fleming Valerie , Roosalu Triin , Vržina Sanja Špoljar
Published: October 2017

Aim

This paper explores the concept of migrant women as used in European healthcare literature in context of pregnancy to provide a clearer understanding of the concept for use in research and service delivery.

Methods

Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis.

Results

The literature demonstrates ambiguity around the concept; most papers do not provide an explicit or detailed definition of the concept. They include the basic idea that women have moved from an identifiable region/country to the country in which the research is undertaken but fail to acknowledge adequately the heterogeneity of migrant women. The paper provides a definition of the concept as a descriptive theory and argues that research must include a clear definition of the migrant specific demographics of the women. This should include country/region of origin and host, status within the legal system of host country, type of migration experience, and length of residence.

Conclusion

There is a need for a more systematic conceptualization of the idea of migrant women within European literature related to pregnancy experiences and outcomes to reflect the heterogeneity of this concept. To this end, the schema suggested in this paper should be adopted in future research.
Metabolic changes in patients with prostate cancer during androgen deprivation therapy
Authors: Mitsuzuka Koji , Arai Yoichi
Published: October 2017

Androgen deprivation therapy continues to be widely used for the treatment of prostate cancer despite the appearance of new‐generation androgen‐receptor targeting drugs after 2000. Androgen deprivation therapy can alleviate symptoms in patients with metastatic prostate cancer and might have a survival benefit in some patients, but it causes undesirable changes in lipid, glucose, muscle or bone metabolism. These metabolic changes could lead to new onset or worsening of diseases, such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, sarcopenia or fracture. Several studies examining the influence of androgen deprivation therapy in Japanese patients with prostate cancer also showed that metabolic changes, such as weight gain, dyslipidemia or fat accumulation, can occur as in patients in Western countries. Efforts to decrease these unfavorable changes and events are important. First, overuse of androgen deprivation therapy for localized or elderly prostate cancer patients should be reconsidered. Second, intermittent androgen deprivation therapy might be beneficial for selected patients who suffer from impaired quality of life as a result of continuous androgen deprivation therapy. Third, education and instruction, such as diet or exercise, to decrease metabolic changes before initiating androgen deprivation therapy is important, because metabolic changes are likely to occur in the early androgen deprivation therapy period. Fourth, routine monitoring of weight, laboratory data or bone mineral density during androgen deprivation therapy are required to avoid unfavorable events.
Human parainfluenza virus infection in severe acute respiratory infection cases in Beijing, 2014‐2016: A molecular epidemiological study
Authors: Pan Yang , Zhang Yi , Shi Weixian , Peng Xiaomin , Cui Shujuan , Zhang Daitao , Lu Guilan , Liu Yimeng , Wu Shuangsheng , Yang Peng , Wang Quanyi
Published: October 2017

Background

Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) threatens human health and even survival, causing a huge number of hospitalized patients every year. However, as one of the most common respiratory viruses circulated worldwide, the epidemiological and phylogenetic characteristics of human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) in these cases were not well known.

Objectives

To reveal the epidemiological features of HPIV infection in SARIs in Beijing area from September 2014 to August 2016.

Methods

A total of 1229 SARI cases in Beijing area were enrolled, investigated, sampled, and tested by multiplex real‐time PCR to identify HPIVs and other common respiratory viruses. Eighteen HPIV‐3 viruses isolated from all HPIV‐positive samples in these SARI cases were sequenced and analyzed.

Results

Among all enrolled cases, 0.81%, 0.73%, 4.48%, and 0.57% were positive for HPIV‐1 to HPIV‐4, respectively. The highest yield rate of HPIV infection occurred in children under 5 years old (9.07%), followed by the patients over 60 years old (6.02%). The phylogenetic information of HPIV‐3 showed that all viruses belonged to Cluster C3a.

Conclusions

Besides the young children, the elders older than 60 years also showed a relatively high infection rate of HPIVs, which should be given comparable attentions. Moreover, the HPIV‐3 circulating in China undergoes continued evolution, suggesting the potential risk of evolved HPIV infection should not be overlooked.
Annual Research Review: Early intervention for infants and young children with, or at‐risk of, autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review
Authors: French Lorna , Kennedy Eilis M.M.
Published: October 2017

Background

There has been increased interest in early screening and intervention for young children with, or at risk of, autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This has generated a debate about the potential harms versus benefits of early identification and treatment. This review aims to identify the evidence base for early intervention in ASD.

Methods

A systematic review searching for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions for children up to 6 years of age with, or at risk of, ASD was undertaken. Characteristics and outcomes of included studies were collated and described in tabular format, and all included studies were rated according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.

Results

Forty‐eight RCTs were identified, of which 40 were published since 2010. Most studies (n = 34) were undertaken in the United States. Included RCTs evaluated 32 different models of intervention. If blinding of participants and relevant personnel is overlooked as a source of bias, only six studies met criteria for low risk of bias across all domains of the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The majority of studies had a relatively small sample size with only seven studies having a sample size >100.

Conclusions

There has been a substantial increase in the number of RCTs evaluating early interventions in ASD. However, few studies, only 12.5% of the total, were rated as being at low risk of bias. Small sample size, unclear concealment of allocation and lack of clarity in the identification of the active ingredients in a diverse range of differently named treatment models were identified as challenges to the design, conduct and interpretation of studies. Improved co‐ordination and design of studies is, therefore, required if future research in the field is to more clearly investigate the effects of early intervention for ASD.
Structure evolution of pullulan–alginate edible films during drying studied by low‐field NMR
Authors: Xiao Qian , Zhao Zhengtao , Lim Loong‐Tak
Published: October 2017

The evolutions of spatial structure for pullulan, alginate, and pullulan–alginate blend aqueous solutions during drying were investigated by low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance. For pullulan solutions, during the first 1,320 min of drying, NMR signal intensity in profiles did not vary with position. Thereafter, the apparent shift of the air–pullulan interface began at 1,440 min, indicating the onset of progressive shrinkage of pullulan samples. Similar shrinkage phenomena were observed for alginate and pullulan–alginate blend solutions. In contrast, spatial structural heterogeneity was observed for alginate solution during drying time from 1,200 to 1,560 min, due to the formation of a skin layer near the air–alginate interface. Based on the change of polymer solutions during drying, two‐stage evaporation process was detected in the aqueous pullulan, alginate, and their blend solutions. Moreover, the evaporation rate of water during the second stage of drying was significantly lower than that of the first stage.

Practical applications

Edible films have emerged as an alternative to synthetic petroleum‐based polymers for food packaging. The evolutions of spatial structure of pullulan–alginate solutions during drying were studied by monitoring of their NMR profiles. Information shown in this study would provide some scientific basis for studying film‐forming mechanism of edible films and their applications in the food field.
Influence of elephant apple powder as an adsorbent in the regeneration of fried soybean oil: Process optimization studies
Authors: Nayak Prakash Kumar , Dash Uma , Rayaguru Kalpana , Radha krishnan Kesavan
Published: October 2017

In the present work, elephant apple powder (EAP) has been characterized as an adsorbent by analyzing its properties in Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscope, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface analyser. Furthermore, the effect of EAP on the regeneration of fried soybean oil was studied by performing frying experiments with potato chips at 180 ± 5 °C for 5 hr/day in a deep fat fryer for 5 days. Oil samples were drawn periodically for evaluating the quality parameters (free fatty acid, peroxide value, iodine value, p‐anisidine value, and total polar content). The effect of process variables (contact time, heating time, and concentration of adsorbent) on the quality parameters of the fried oil was examined using response surface methodology. Results indicated that the process variables had a significant effect on the final quality of the oil. From the study, it was revealed that the quality of fried soybean oil has improved after treating with EAP.

Practical applications

The present work provides the useful information regarding the treatment of deep fried oil using a natural adsorbent. The method used in the work is cost‐effective and regenerates oil with good quality. The method of regeneration may be utilized by small and medium scale food processors as the process is simple. The results of this study showed that elephant apple powder can be used as an adsorbent to improve the quality parameters of deep fried soybean oil.
Increased survival rates in gastric cancer, with a narrowing gender gap and widening socioeconomic status gap: A period analysis from 1984 to 2013
Authors: Sun Fengze , Sun Huanhuan , Mo Xiangqiong , Tang Jianjun , Liao Yifeng , Wang Shuncong , Su Yonghui , Ma Haiqing
Published: October 2017

Background and Aim

Gastric cancer (GC) has the fifth highest incidence rate of all cancers and has a poor prognosis. However, no recent large‐scale and long‐term studies have evaluated the incidence and survival rates of individuals with GC.

Methods

In order to explore the change of GC incidence and survival rates by age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status (SES), incidence data and survival status of patients with GC between 1984 and 2013 were abstracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Totally, 87 242 cases of GC were exported and were analyzed.

Results

During these three decades, the incidence of GC was 7.4, 6.8, and 5.5 per 100 000 individuals in each decade. The 1‐year relative survival rates (RSRs) improved from 42.4% to 44.3% to 49.0% (P < 0.0001), with a larger increase seen in the third decade. However, the long‐term survival rates remained low (from 17.8% to 20.3% to 22.9% for the 5‐year RSRs, P < 0.0001; from 14.1% to 16.4% to 18.6% for the 10‐year RSRs, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our analysis demonstrated the decreased incidence and increased survival rate of GC. In addition, lower SES was associated with lower survival rates. It is notable that others (primarily for Asians) had the highest incidence rate but had better outcomes than Whites and Blacks.