bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and therapeutic efficacy of mirabegron 25 mg in older patients with overactive bladder and multiple comorbidities
Authors: Lee Yu Khun , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: June 2018

Aim

The present study assessed the therapeutic efficacy and safety of mirabegron 25 mg in older patients aged ≥80 years with overactive bladder and multiple comorbidities.

Methods

Patients with overactive bladder were prospectively treated with 25 mg of mirabegron once daily. The patients were divided into a younger group (aged 40–60 years) and an older group (aged ≥80 years), and their underlying comorbidities were recorded. The primary efficacy end‐point was the change in symptom score from baseline to the third month. Safety assessments included adverse events and post‐void residual urine volume.

Results

A total of 217 patients (younger, n = 62; older, n = 155) were included. The older patients had more comorbidities than the younger patients. Statistically significant improvements in the Quality of Life index and Patient Perception of Bladder Condition were noted in the younger patients from 1 month after treatment, whereas the International Prostate Symptom Score‐Voiding subscore, International Prostate Symptom Score‐Total, Quality of Life index, post‐void residual urine volume and Patient Perception of Bladder Condition were all significantly decreased in the older patients after 3 months of treatment. The mean changes in the International Prostate Symptom Score‐Voiding subscore, maximal flow rate, post‐void residual urine volume, nocturia and Urgency Severity Score were significantly different between the two groups. The younger patients experienced more minor adverse events than the older patients (41.94% vs 24.62%) during treatment. Nevertheless, the adverse event rate was acceptably low in both groups.

Conclusions

Mirabegron 25 mg once daily is a safe and effective treatment for older patients with overactive bladder. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1330–1333.
In vivo evidence that the cannabinoid receptor 2–63 RR variant is associated with the acquisition and/or expansion of HIV infection
Authors: Sagnelli C , Uberti‐Foppa C , Hasson H , Bellini G , Minichini C , Salpietro S , Messina E , Barbanotti D , Merli M , Punzo F , Coppola N , Lazzarin A , Sagnelli E , Rossi F
Published: June 2018

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate whether the rs35761398 variants of the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) gene may influence the acquisition of HIV infection and the clinical presentation of HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection.

Methods

We compared 166 HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients with 186 HCV‐monoinfected patients, all with biopsy‐proven chronic hepatitis (using the Ishak scoring system), naïve for anti‐HCV treatment and tested for the CB2 rs35761398 polymorphism (using the TaqMan assay).

Results

The HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients were more frequently male (P < 0.002), were younger (P < 0.001), and had lower median BMI (P < 0.001) and HCV RNA (P < 0.05) and higher median aspartate aminotransferase (AST; P < 0.001), alanine aminotransferase (ALT; P < 0.001) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT; P < 0.001) levels than the HCV‐monoinfected patients. The CB2 RR variant predominated in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients (45.8% vs. 31.2% in HCV‐monoinfected patients; P < 0.001) and the CB2 QR variant in HCV‐monoinfected patients (57.5% vs. 38.6% in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients; P < 0.00001), and the CB2 QQ variant was equally distributed. Focusing on patients with the CB2 QQ variant, the 26 HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients, compared with the 21 HCV‐monoinfected patients, showed less severe liver necroinflammation [lower histological activity index (HAI)] (P < 0.05). Of the patients with the CB2 RR variant, the 76 HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients, compared with the 58 HCV‐monoinfected patients, were more frequently male (P < 0.05), were younger (P < 0.001), and had a lower median body mass index (BMI; P < 0.001), a higher median AST level (P < 0.001), a higher mean HAI score (P < 0.05) and a higher rate of cases with severe steatosis (P = 0.05). In an analysis of variance (anova) of HCV/HIV‐coinfected and HCV‐monoinfected patient data, those with the CB2 RR variant (P = 0.003) and of male sex (P = 0.002) were more prevalent in the HCV/HIV‐coinfected group.

Conclusions

There is the suggestion of a positive effect of the CB2 RR variant on HIV acquisition and/or spread, which is in accordance with previous in vitro observations.
Effects of roasting treatment on non‐volatile compounds and taste of green tea
Authors: Mao Ajing , Su Huan , Fang Shimao , Chen Xu , Ning Jingming , Ho Chitang , Wan Xiaochun
Published: June 2018

The effects of roasting treatment on sensory quality and related compounds in green tea were investigated. The combined application of roasting temperature and time 100 °C for 90 min, 120 °C for 60 min and 140 °C for 30 min achieved the most satisfying sensory quality. The HPLC analysis showed that the contents of cis‐catechins, bitter and umami amino acids reduced with increase in temperature, while the contents of trans‐catechins and soluble sugar increased with the temperature rise. The content of caffeine and sweet amino acids did not change significantly compared with untreated tea sample. The decrease in cis‐catechins, total polyphenols and bitter amino acids reduced the bitterness and astringency of the green tea, while the increase in total soluble sugars improved the sweetness and mellow taste. The sensory evaluation results showed that the sensory quality of the tea was significantly enhanced through roasting treatment.
Reinforcement of banana flour biocomposite film with beeswax and montmorillonite and effects on water barrier and physical properties
Authors: Orsuwan Aungkana , Sothornvit Rungsinee
Published: June 2018

Unripe banana flour (BF) has potential as an edible film but its hydrophilic nature requires amendment to provide a better water barrier. Beeswax (BW) and montmorillonite Na+ (MMT) are typically applied as reinforcing additives to obtain a water barrier, water solubility and mechanical strength in a biopolymer. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of BW, MMT and their combination on banana biocomposite film properties. The results suggested that the addition of BW enhanced the film transparency and water barrier properties. However, the incorporation of MMT increased the water resistance as expressed through low water solubility. Nonetheless, the addition of BW and BW‐MMT reduced the mechanical properties (tensile strength and elongation at break) of BF‐BW and BF‐BW‐MMT films. Nonetheless, the added MMT did not change the mechanical properties of the BF film due to the poor dispersion quality of MMT as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy.
Chorioamnionitis exposure dampens the preterm monocyte response to subsequent challenges
Authors: Bermick Jennifer , Schaller Matthew
Published: June 2018

See also: Original Article by de Jong et al.
Risk Preferences and Immigration Attitudes: Evidence from Four East Asian Countries
Authors: Shim Kyusun , Lee Yun‐Suk
Published: June 2018

Economic interests, such as increased job market competition or tax burden in the host countries, often explain attitudes toward immigration. Some empirical studies that have adopted this economic perspective report, however, that an individual's economic circumstances are not directly linked to his or her attitudes toward immigration, emphasizing that people can have different interpretations even under the same circumstances. We argue that risk preferences (i.e., willingness to take risks) shape personal perceptions about the costs and benefits of immigrant workers in the job market and immigration. Using the 2008 East Asian Social Survey from China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, we find that individuals who like to take more risks are more likely to be positive about immigration. Our study indicates the importance of psychological tendency in the formation of native citizens' attitudes toward immigration.
Localization of Fe‐S Biosynthesis Machinery in Cryptosporidium parvum Mitosome
Authors: Miller Christopher N. , Jossé Lyne , Tsaousis Anastasios D.
Published: June 2018

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan, apicomplexan, parasite that poses significant risk to humans and animals, as a common cause of potentially fatal diarrhea in immunodeficient hosts. The parasites have evolved a number of unique biological features that allow them to thrive in a highly specialized parasitic lifestyle. For example, the genome of Cryptosporidium parvum is highly reduced, encoding only 3,805 proteins, which is also reflected in its reduced cellular and organellar content and functions. As such, its remnant mitochondrion, dubbed a mitosome, is one of the smallest mitochondria yet found. While numerous studies have attempted to discover the function(s) of the C. parvum mitosome, most of them have been focused on in silico predictions. Here, we have localized components of a biochemical pathway in the C. parvum mitosome, in our investigations into the functions of this peculiar mitochondrial organelle. We have shown that three proteins involved in the mitochondrial iron‐sulfur cluster biosynthetic pathway are localized in the organelle, and one of them can functionally replace its yeast homolog. Thus, it seems that the C. parvum mitosome is involved in iron‐sulfur cluster biosynthesis, supporting the organellar and cytosolic apoproteins. These results spearhead further research on elucidating the functions of the mitosome and broaden our understanding in the minimalistic adaptations of these organelles.
Influence of Helicobacter pylori infection on periodontitis
Authors: Adachi Kyoichi , Notsu Takumi , Mishiro Tomoko , Yoshikawa Hiroo , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: June 2018

Aim

The relationship of Helicobacter pylori infection with periodontitis was examined.

Methods

The study subjects were 686 individuals (males 504, females 182; mean age 53.8 years) who underwent a screening test for periodontitis between April 2015 and March 2018 and whose H. pylori infection status could be determined. The periodontitis test was performed by examining saliva concentrations of lactate dehydrogenase and hemoglobin (Hb), with a lactate dehydrogenase level ≥ 350 U/L and/or hemoglobin level ≥ 2 μg/mL defined as positive for periodontitis.

Results

Among subjects found positive in screening for periodontitis, those classified as negative and positive for H. pylori infection, as well as post‐eradicated were 81 (39.7%), 30 (14.7%), and 93 (45.6%), respectively, while those among subjects shown negative for periodontitis numbered 241 (50.0%), 52 (10.8%), and 189 (39.2%), respectively. Subjects noted as negative, positive, and post‐eradicated for H. pylori infection comprised 25.2%, 36.6%, and 32.9%, respectively, of all shown positive for periodontitis. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the risk for positive in the periodontitis test was higher among subjects with H. pylori infection as compared with those without, while post‐eradicated status tended to reduce that risk. Repeated examinations performed following H. pylori eradication showed that the number of subjects positive for periodontitis was decreased among those who underwent successful eradication.

Conclusion

Helicobacter pylori infection increases the risk for occurrence of periodontitis, which can be reduced by successful eradication.
Association of serial serum major histocompatibility complex class I chain‐related A measurements with hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C patients after viral eradication
Authors: Huang Chung‐Feng , Wang Shu‐Chi , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Huang Ching‐I , Tsai Pei‐Chien , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chen Shinn‐Cherng , Dai Chia‐Yen , Huang Jee‐Fu , Chuang Wan‐Long , Chen Angela , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

Major histocompatibility complex class I chain‐related A (MICA) genetic variants and their serum levels (sMICA) were associated with the development of hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in untreated cohorts. The dynamic changes in serial sMICA levels and their association with HCC in the post‐curative status are elusive.

Methods

Single nucleotide polymorphism rs2596542 of MICA and serial sMICA levels were analyzed in chronic hepatitis C patients with a sustained virologic response after antivirals. Forty‐two patients who developed HCC and 84 age‐matched, gender‐matched, and cirrhosis propensity score‐matched non‐HCC controls were compared. Serial sMICA levels were measured within 6 months before treatment initiation (pre‐sMICA), 6 months after the end of treatment (post‐sMICA), and on the last visit before the development (or not) of HCC (last‐sMICA).

Results

Cox regression analysis revealed that last‐sMICA was the only predictive factor of HCC development (hazard ratio/95% confidence interval: 2.27 (per 1 log pg/mL increase)/1.672–3.082, P < 0.001). Patients without HCC development showed a significantly reduced trend of sMICA levels during follow‐up (trend P = 0.001), which was observed only in GG genotype (trend P < 0.001) but not A allele carriers (P = 0.88). In contrast, patients with HCC showed an increased trend of sMICA levels (trend P = 0.024). However, only the GG genotype “high expressors” (trend P = 0.06) but not A allele carriers (P = 0.18) showed a correlation of substantially increased trend of sMICA levels and HCC development.

Conclusions

Serial sMICA levels were associated with HCC development in SVR patients. The clinical utility of this finding is restricted to MICA rs2596542 GG genotype carriers.
Exceptional Familial Clustering for Extreme Longevity in Humans
Authors: Perls Thomas , Shea-Drinkwater Maureen , Bowen-Flynn Jennifer , Ridge Stephen B. , Kang Sammy , Joyce Erin , Daly Mark , Brewster Stephanie J. , Kunkel Louis , Puca Annibale A.
Published: June 2018

Four families highly clustered for extreme longevity are described here, representing the first report of clustering for this phenotype. Families such as these may prove to be helpful in the further understanding of the genetic contribution to achieving exceptional longevity.
The Manchester Respiratory Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire: Development, Reliability, Validity, and Responsiveness to Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Authors: Yohannes Abebaw M. , Roomi Jamal , Winn Sarah , Connolly Martin J.
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVES

Because there is no respiratory‐specific activities of daily living (ADL) scale for use in older patients, our aim was to design and develop the Manchester Respiratory ADL questionnaire (MRADL) and to assess its validity in older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

DESIGN

The MRADL is a composite of the most discriminative questions from the Nottingham Extended ADL Questionnaire (NEADL) and the Breathing Problems Questionnaire (BPQ).

SETIING

A University teaching hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were 188 (104 men) COPD out‐patients aged 60 to 93 (mean 77) years and 55 (23 men) normal controls (NCs) aged 70 to 90 (mean 78) years. Exclusions were confusion and acute respiratory exacerbation/use of oral corticosteroid within 6 weeks.

INTERVENTION

A subgroup of COPD subjects completed a pulmonary rehabilitation program (PR) to assess responsiveness of the MRADL to intervention.

MEASUREMENTS

All subjects completed MRADL and NEADL scales, and 15 COPD subjects (11 men) completed an 8‐week PR program.

RESULTS

Mean (SE) 1‐second forced expiratory volume (FEV 1) in COPD subjects was 0.94 (0.03) liters, and in NCs it was 1.96 (0.07) liters. MRADL discriminated better between COPDs and NCs than did the NEADL in terms of sensitivity (90% vs 76%; X2 = 4.8, P = .02) and negative predictive value (84% vs 69%; X2 = 4.5, P = .03). MRADL responded to changes during PR: pre versus post mean (SE) score 11.2 (1.1) vs 13.4 (1.1); (t = 3.09; P = .008), but NEADL was unchanged. MRADL showed high consistency (Cronbach alpha 0.91). 95% confidence limits of repeatability were −0.63 to +0.26 (P = .42) for MRADL and −0.53 to +0.26 (P = .50) for NEADL.

CONCLUSIONS

MRADL is a reliable and valid self‐report scale for assessment of physical disability in older COPD patients. It is responsive to pulmonary rehabilitation.
Preliminary Report from the Kansas Hartford Geriatrics Project: A Model of Community University Collaboration in Geriatric Medicine Faculty Development
Authors: Swagerty Daniel , Walling Anne , Studenski Stephanie
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVES

This paper describes the development, implementation, and participant satisfaction of a faculty development program for community‐based clinician educators with competencies in geriatric medicine.

DESIGN

One group, ongoing trial.

SETTING

University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas.

PARTICIPANTS

Family physicians and general internists from throughout the state of Kansas (n = 30).

INTERVENTION

This is an integrated faculty development curriculum of clinical geriatrics and educational process offered in nine sessions over 3 years.

MEASUREMENTS

Project retention, session attendance, and participant satisfaction are the measures of program success.

MAIN RESULTS

Project retention at 18 months, the midpoint of this project, has been 87%, with 91% of the retained participants attending all of the sessions to date. More than 95% of the participants have rated each of the first five sessions as highly satisfactory or excellent in meeting their needs as a clinician educator. Satisfaction for on‐site and interactive televideo participation has been equally high.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary results indicate the Kansas Hartford Geriatrics Project model of community‐university collaboration in geriatric faculty development is successful in recruitment and satisfaction of participants. The curriculum is highly attractive and rewarding to faculty. Interactive televideo provides a successful innovation in aging‐oriented faculty development.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Exercise to Improve Outcomes of Acute Hospitalization in Older Adults
Authors: Siebens Hilary , Aronow Harriet , Edwards Diane , Ghasemi Zahra
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE

Older adults hospitalized for nondisabling diagnoses can lose functional ability. Lack of exercise or physical activity during the acute illness and recovery may be contributory. This study evaluated whether increased exercise in hospital and afterward would shorten length of stay and improve physical function at 1 month.

DESIGN

A randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

A 700‐bed community‐based hospital with academic and teaching programs.

PARTICIPANTS

Three hundred patients (mean age 78.2 years ± 5.6) with nondisabling medical and surgical diagnoses who were admitted to an acute care hospital between December 1990 and April 1992. All patients had an expected length of stay 5 or more days, were ambulatory before admission, and were not expected to die within 12 months.

INTERVENTION

A hospital‐based general exercise program was administered to intervention patients along with encouragement to continue the program, self‐administered, at home.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was hospital length of stay. Secondary outcomes at 1 month post‐discharge included measures of physical function and other general health indicators.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in length of stay between treatment and control groups controlling for baseline characteristics and diagnoses. The intervention was associated with better function in instrumental activities of daily living (β = .433 (95% CI, 0.044–0.842)) at 1 month but no change in perceived general health status and other measures of physical function.

CONCLUSIONS

An exercise program started during hospitalization and continued for 1 month did not shorten length of stay but did improve functional outcome at 1 month.
Inflation and Innovation in a Schumpeterian Economy with North–South Technology Transfer
Authors: CHU ANGUS C. , COZZI GUIDO , FURUKAWA YUICHI , LIAO CHIH‐HSING
Published: June 2018

This study analyzes how inflation affects innovation and international technology transfer via cash‐in‐advance constraints on R&D. We consider a North–South quality‐ladder model that features innovative Northern R&D and adaptive Southern R&D. We find that higher Southern inflation causes a permanent decrease in technology transfer, a permanent increase in the North–South wage gap, and a temporary decrease in the Northern innovation rate. Higher Northern inflation causes a temporary decrease in the Northern innovation rate, a permanent decrease in the North–South wage gap, and ambiguous effects on technology transfer. Finally, we calibrate the model to China–U.S. data to perform a quantitative analysis.
Deviant Peers and Adolescent Risky Behaviors: The Protective Effect of Nonverbal Display of Parental Warmth
Authors: Daspe Marie‐Ève , Arbel Reout , Ramos Michelle C. , Shapiro Lauren A. S. , Margolin Gayla
Published: June 2018

This study examines whether nonverbal displays of parents’ warmth during an in‐lab conflict discussion mitigate the links between affiliation with deviant peers and risky behaviors. A sample of 107 youth and their parents participated in a study spanning from mid‐adolescence (T1) to late adolescence (T2). At T1, family members discussed a contentious issue, which was coded for parents’ nonverbal warmth. At T1 and T2, youth reported on their friends’ and their own risky behaviors. Fathers’ warmth moderated each prospective association between deviant peers and risky behaviors. Mothers’ warmth did not emerge as a significant moderator. Girls, in particular, benefitted from fathers’ warmth as a buffer in the trajectory from T1 risky behaviors to T2 risky behaviors and deviant peers.
Consumer Resistance to Innovation in Services: Challenges and Barriers in the Internet of Things Era
Authors: Mani Zied , Chouk Inès
Published: June 2018

The Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to be the next phase of the Internet revolution and to transform consumers’ service experience. It nevertheless raises challenges on innovation in services. Based on Ram and Sheth's () theoretical framework, this work attempts to provide a better understanding of the barriers that lead to consumers’ resistance to smart services as an innovation. To this end, our research adopts an integrative framework that combines functional barriers, psychological barriers, and individual barriers to explain consumer resistance to smart services. Structural equation modeling was used to test this theoretical framework. Our research enriches the existing literature by (1) adapting Ram and Sheth's () theoretical framework to the evolution of digital technologies (technological vulnerability barriers), (2) taking into account the ideological aspect of resistance (ideological barriers), and (3) considering dispositional variables (individual barriers). Moreover, it highlights the key role of skepticism toward IoT devices as a mediator between technological vulnerability barriers and individual barriers on the one hand and consumer resistance to smart services on the other.
Nonlinear mixed models of growth curves from domestic shorthair cats in a breeding colony, housed in a seasonal facility to predict obesity
Authors: Cave Nick John , Bridges Janis P. , Weidgraaf Karin , Thomas David Granville
Published: June 2018

Obesity is highly prevalent in pet cats (Felis silvestris catus) and is associated with several comorbidities, yet very little is understood about the early life risk factors. The aim of this study was to develop a mathematical model that describes growth in cats, to determine which early life variables were associated with being overweight in adulthood and to identify when during life the overweight phenotype developed in a colony of cats. We used pedigree, birth and growth data of 212 colony cats that were fed ad libitum from weaning. A nonlinear mixed‐effects model was fitted to the body weight data to describe growth curves. A subset of 146 cats that had reached 9 years of age was used to evaluate the body weight curves to 9 years, and candidate early life predictors of peak weight were evaluated using logistic regression. In contrast with other species, candidates such as maternal factors, birth weight and litter size were not significant risk factors for adult obesity. Male sex, body weight around 15 weeks of age and being born during the increasing photoperiod were significantly associated with being overweight at 9 years. The growth equation created can be used to predict peak body weight, when sex and season of birth are included. Thus, the trajectory to obesity is determined early in life in cats, and early intervention appears essential to prevent obesity in pet cats.
Trustworthiness Change and Relationship Continuity after Contract Breach in Financial Supply Chains
Authors: Ta Ha , Esper Terry L. , Ford Kenneth , Garcia‐Dastuge Sebastian
Published: June 2018

The management of financial flows in the supply chain is an integral part of effective supply chain management and is an emerging research area. A breach in the relationships between firms and financial providers may not only affect the financial health of the focal firms, but also disrupt the financial stability of their supply chains. Building on life‐cycle theory, this research examines the critical role of trustworthiness in the financial supply chain relationships in the event of a contract breach. Although literature has established that trustworthiness is vital to interfirm supply chain relationships, we further propose that changes in trustworthiness are particularly relevant when interfirm relationships are impacted by negative shocks such as contract breaches. Trustworthiness change (TC), therefore, is likely to serve as a key determinant in the nonbreaching party's decision to continue on in a relationship. Using archival data from multiple data sources, we find evidence thatTCsignificantly influences the likelihood of relationship continuity in the aftermath of contract breaches, and that the effect is not linear. In addition, the effect is stronger for breaches that occur earlier in the duration an interfirm relationship, and when the breaches are less severe. These findings offer several important implications for both financial supply chain relationship theory and practice, which are discussed in the paper.
Enforcing Christian Nationalism: Examining the Link Between Group Identity and Punitive Attitudes in the United States
Authors: Davis Joshua
Published: June 2018

This article examines whether the convergence of an individual's religious and national identities promotes authoritarian attitudes towards crime and deviance. Drawing on theories of social control and group conformity, as well as Christian nationalism's influence on intolerance toward out‐groups, I argue that the inability to distinguish between religious and national identities increases desire for group homogeneity and therefore increases willingness to utilize formalized measures of social control. Analysis of 2007 Baylor Religion Survey data demonstrates that adherence to Christian nationalism predicts three indicators of authoritarian views toward controlling crime and deviance: support for capital punishment, stricter punishment for federal crime, and for society to “crackdown on troublemakers.” These effects are robust to the inclusion of a comprehensive battery of 20 socioeconomic, political, and religious controls, and are consistent with previous research on Christian nationalism showing it is not religious commitment or traditionalism per se that leads to intolerant attitudes, but rather the conflation of one's religious identity with other social identities, in this case national. These findings indicate that, beyond sociopolitical and religious influences, the belief that the United States is, and should be, a “Christian nation” increases desires for group conformity and strict control for both criminals and “troublemakers.”
Circulating levels of 3‐hydroxymyristate, a direct quantification of endotoxaemia in noninfected cirrhotic patients
Authors: Weil Delphine , Pais de Barros Jean‐Paul , Mourey Guillaume , Laheurte Caroline , Cypriani Benoit , Badet Nicolas , Delabrousse Eric , Grandclément Emilie , Di Martino Vincent , Saas Philippe , Lagrost Laurent , Thévenot Thierry
Published: June 2018

Background & Aims

The quantification of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in biological fluids is challenging. We aimed to measure plasma LPS concentration using a new method of direct quantification of 3‐hydroxymyristate (3‐HM), a lipid component of LPS, and to evaluate correlations between 3‐HM and markers of liver function, endothelial activation, portal hypertension and enterocyte damage.

Methods

Plasma from 90 noninfected cirrhotic patients (30 Child‐Pugh [CP]‐A, 30 CP‐B, 30 CP‐C) was prospectively collected. The concentration of 3‐HM was determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

Results

3‐HM levels were higher in CP‐C patients (CP‐A/CP‐B/CP‐C: 68/70/103 ng/mL, P = 0.005). Patients with severe acute alcoholic hepatitis (n = 16; 113 vs 74 ng/mL, P = 0.012), diabetic patients (n = 22; 99 vs 70 ng/mL, P = 0.028) and those not receiving beta blockers (n = 44; 98 vs 72 ng/mL, P = 0.034) had higher levels of 3‐HM. We observed a trend towards higher baseline levels of 3‐HM in patients with hepatic encephalopathy (n = 7; 144 vs 76 ng/mL, P = 0.45) or SIRS (n = 10; 106 vs 75 ng/mL, P = 0.114). In multivariate analysis, high levels of 3‐HM were associated with CP (OR = 4.39; 95%CI = 1.79‐10.76) or MELD (OR = 8.24; 95%CI = 3.19‐21.32) scores. Patients dying from liver insufficiency (n = 6) during a 12‐month follow‐up had higher baseline levels of 3‐HM (106 vs 75 ng/mL, P = 0.089).

Conclusions

In noninfected cirrhotic patients, 3‐HM arises more frequently with impairment of liver function, heavy alcohol consumption, diabetic status, nonuse of beta blockers and a trend towards poorer outcome is also observed. The direct mass measurement of LPS using 3‐HM appears reliable to detect transient endotoxaemia and promising to manage the follow‐up of cirrhotic patients.
When I say … gratitude
Authors: Hodson Nathan
Published: June 2018

The author outlines two visions of gratitude, a ‘debtor paradigm’ and a relational model, arguing that the latter should inform the gratitude expressed between medical teachers and their students.
Can we afford the City of London?
Authors: Christensen John
Published: June 2018

A secretive web of tax havens and overseas territories at the heart of British foreign policy entrenches the power of finance capitalism
Human rights in the international system
Authors: Patel Champa
Published: June 2018

Post‐Brexit, a role for the United Kingdom as a leading voice in human rights promotion and protection is hard to imagine
Body image concerns in patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator: A scoping review
Authors: Frydensberg Vivi S. , Skovbakke Søren J. , Pedersen Susanne S. , Kok Robin N.
Published: June 2018

Background

Patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) retain a scar and a bump at the site of implant. This may lead to body image concerns (BICs) that influence patients’ quality of life. Few studies have examined the prevalence and impact of BICs postimplant, prompting us to conduct a scoping review of the field.

Methods

We searched the Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cinahl databases in August 2016 and repeated in May 2017. Included were studies reporting on patients ≥ 18 years, an ICD implant (transvenous, subcutaneous, or ICD with cardiac resynchronization therapy [CRT‐D]), reporting on BICs, and published in peer‐reviewed English‐language journals. We excluded nonsystematic reviews, opinion pieces/letters, case studies, conference abstracts, PhD dissertations, protocol papers, studies of ICD shock treatment of atrial fibrillation, and of abdominally or submammary implanted ICDs.

Results

A total of 40 articles were included: 16 qualitative and 24 quantitative. None of the included studies had BICs as their primary endpoint. Results showed that BICs are present in various degrees in the ICD population and can be attributed to the visibility of the ICD (the scar and bump). Women and younger patients had greater problems with BICs, although men also had concerns. Two items of the “Florida Patient Acceptance Survey” were the most frequently used to assess BICs.

Conclusion

BICs were present among ICD patients, but the degree of impact on their lives varied. There is a need for developing a BICs questionnaire to examine the prevalence of BICs and the potential impact on patients’ lives in longitudinal studies.
Proportionate growth of congenital nevi: Blow a balloon to explain
Authors: Inamadar Arun C. , Palit Aparna
Published: June 2018

Any form of congenital nevus in a child is a cause of parental anxiety. Parents are often worried about the future course of the lesion. Some of these lesions grow in extent with the child's growth and involve other body areas; others grow proportionate to the involved body part, giving an impression of apparent growth of the lesion. We use an illustrative “blowing a balloon” technique to explain the apparent growth pattern of some congenital nevi.
Childhood atopic dermatitis—An Indian perspective
Authors: Sarkar Rashmi , Narang Isha
Published: June 2018

Developing countries such as India can offer unique perspectives on and contributions to knowledge of and the literature on atopic dermatitis, including information on epidemiology, the role of environmental factors, clinical features, and treatment strategies in resource‐poor settings using indigenous methodologies. This report will help in understanding atopic dermatitis in the Indian diaspora as well.
High‐risk human papillomavirus in a child with digital pigmented Bowen's disease: Case report and dermoscopic findings
Authors: Hudson Andrew , Mir Adnan , Carroll Bryan
Published: June 2018

Squamous cell carcinoma in situ, also known as Bowen's disease (BD), is a skin malignancy most commonly seen in middle‐aged and elderly adults. Pediatric BD is rare and can be a diagnostic challenge for physicians. Digital BD has largely been associated with human papilloma virus. We report an immunocompetent 11‐year‐old girl with periungual pigmented BD induced by high‐risk human papilloma virus.
Effectiveness of neurofeedback versus medication for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Sudnawa Khemika Khemakanok , Chirdkiatgumchai Vilawan , Ruangdaraganon Nichara , Khongkhatithum Chaiyos , Udomsubpayakul Umaporn , Jirayucharoensak Suwicha , Israsena Pasin
Published: June 2018

Background

Neurofeedback (NF) is an operant conditioning procedure that trains participants to self‐regulate brain activity. NF is a promising treatment for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but there have been only a few randomized controlled trials comparing the effectiveness of NF with medication with various NF protocols. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effectiveness of unipolar electrode NF using theta/beta protocol compared with methylphenidate (MPH) for ADHD.

Methods

Children with newly diagnosed ADHD were randomly organized into NF and MPH groups. The NF group received 30 sessions of NF. Children in the MPH group were prescribed MPH for 12 weeks. Vanderbilt ADHD rating scales were completed by parents and teachers to evaluate ADHD symptoms before and after treatment. Student's t‐test and Cohen's d were used to compare symptoms between groups and evaluate the effect size (ES) of each treatment, respectively.

Results

Forty children participated in the study. No differences in ADHD baseline symptoms were found between groups. After treatment, teachers reported significantly lower ADHD symptoms in the MPH group (P = 0.01), but there were no differences between groups on parent report (P = 0.55). MPH had a large ES (Cohen's d, 1.30–1.69), while NF had a moderate ES (Cohen's d, 0.49–0.68) for treatment of ADHD symptoms.

Conclusion

Neurofeedback is a promising alternative treatment for ADHD in children who do not respond to or experience significant adverse effects from ADHD medication.
Do cacti form soil seed banks? An evaluation using species from the Southern Central Andes
Authors: Lindow‐López L. , Galíndez G. , Sühring S. , Pastrana‐Ignes V. , Gorostiague P. , Gutiérrez A. , Ortega‐Baes P.
Published: June 2018

There is controversy over whether cactus species form soil seed banks. Although it is commonly assumed that cacti do not form seed banks, very few studies have evaluated them. In this work, we analysed whether cactus species form soil seed banks, studying seed distribution, seed density and seed longevity in the Southern Central Andes.

Soil samples were collected in two microhabitats (under nurse plants and in bare areas) at 12 selected sites. We determined seed presence–absence, density and distribution for 32 native cactus species. Seed longevity for six of these species was determined through a burial experiment.

We recorded viable seeds for 62.5% of the 32 evaluated species, finding variation in seed density between microenvironments and among populations. In some species, the highest seed density was found under potential nurse plants. Seed germination and seed viability decreased with burial time, with seed longevity always being <24 months after burial.

Our results show strong evidence that cactus species do form seed banks. Seed density can vary between microenvironments and among populations, suggesting that cactus–nurse plant associations can also be explained by differential seed dispersal and not only by differential establishment. We found that Echinopsis and Gymnocalycium species form short‐term seed banks. Our results will help to better understand the population dynamics of cactus species, a focal species group for conservation actions because many of them are threatened by human activities.
Regeneration of a keystone semiarid shrub over its range in Spain: habitat degradation overrides the positive effects of plant–animal mutualisms
Authors: Rey P. J. , Cancio I. , Manzaneda A. J. , González‐Robles A. , Valera F. , Salido T. , Alcántara J. M.
Published: June 2018

Global change drivers are currently affecting semiarid ecosystems. Because these ecosystems differ from others in biotic and abiotic filters, cues for plant regeneration and management derived from elsewhere may not be applicable to semiarid ecosystems. We sought to determine the extent to which regional variation in regeneration prospects of a long‐lived semiarid keystone shrub depends on anthropogenic habitat degradation, plant–animal interactions and climate determinants.

We investigated the regeneration ability (via population size structure, juvenile density and juvenile/adult ratio), fruit set and seed dispersal of Ziziphus lotus in 25 localities spanning the range of its threatened habitats in Spain. We dissected the relative contribution of different regeneration determinants using multiple regression and structural equation modelling.

Population regeneration was extremely poor, and size structures were biased towards large classes and low juvenile densities and juvenile/adult ratios. Poor regeneration was often coincident with seed dispersal collapse. However, the positive effect of seed dispersal on population regeneration disappeared after considering its relationship with habitat degradation. Protected areas did have juveniles. Together, these data suggest that habitat degradation directly impacts juvenile establishment.

Our results provide insights into habitat and species management at the regional level. Z. lotus populations are currently driven by persistence‐based dynamics through the longevity of the species. Nonetheless, collapsed seed dispersal, poor regeneration and the removal of adults from their habitats forecast extinction of Z. lotus in many remnants. The extreme longevity of Z. lotus provides opportunities for recovery of its populations and habitats through effective enforcement of regulations.
Oligosaccharides successfully thwart hijacking of the salicylic acid pathway by Phytophthora infestans in potato leaves
Authors: van Aubel G. , Serderidis S. , Ivens J. , Clinckemaillie A. , Legrève A. , Hause B. , Van Cutsem P.
Published: June 2018

Potato growing is severely threatened by the late blight agent Phytophthora infestans, which is usually controlled by massive amounts of fungicides. While variety resistance is often bypassed by the pathogen, the plant innate immunity opens the way to new biological plant protection tools, e.g. the COS‐OGA elicitor. This oligosaccharide composition mimics the interaction between plants and fungal pathogens as it combines chitosan oligomers (COS) with pectin‐derived oligogalacturonides (OGA). Two different COS‐OGA elicitors were evaluated against potato late blight: FytoSave, mainly efficient against powdery mildews, and FytoSol, a new composition still under development. In addition, a comparative study of plant defence induction was performed, focusing on the effect of repeated sprayings as well as on the stimulation of salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid and ethylene‐related pathways during the biotrophic and necrotrophic growth stages of the pathogen. The FytoSave elicitor strongly increased the SA content but failed to induce sufficient protection against late blight, while FytoSol maintained or even decreased the free SA content in the presence of P. infestans and was completely efficient. Surprisingly, the necrotrophic development of P. infestans occurred along with a strong leaf accumulation of free SA and SA‐related transcripts. This may represent an attempt by P. infestans to divert plant defences for its own benefit. Preventive sprayings with FytoSol but not FytoSave completely impeded this hijacking. FytoSol seemed to keep the SA pathway under control, thereby preventing its diversion by P. infestans.
Understanding Rural Social Class in an Era of Global Challenge
Authors: Jensen Leif
Published: June 2018

Social class is a foundational sociological concept that cuts across all domains of interest within rural sociology. Structured inequity rooted in social class and its intersectionalities also was the spark that drew many rural sociologists into the discipline. This article first considers definitions of social class and provides a rationale for its being the theme for the 2016 meetings of the Rural Sociological Society in Toronto, ON. It provides a brief sketch of social class in the rural and urban United States through an analysis of data from the General Social Survey. This leads into a discussion of four dimensions of social class that rural sociologists have helped to inform and on which more research is needed. These include class as a relational concept, class and economic livelihoods, expressions of class as signifiers of success, and the consequences of class stratification. Along the way, a sampling of RSS members are given voice as they describe in their own words the spark that ignited their pursuit of our discipline.
Perimortem caesarean section – why, when and how
Authors: Chu Justin J , Hinshaw Kim , Paterson‐Brown Sara , Johnston Tracey , Matthews Margaret , Webb Julian , Sharpe Paul
Published: June 2018

Key content

Cardiac arrest in pregnancy is rare. Effective management involves the decision to perform a perimortem caesarean section if the gestation is greater than 20 weeks and return of spontaneous circulation does not occur after 4 minutes of effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Delivery should ideally be achieved within 5 minutes of cardiac arrest as this maximises maternal survival and reduces the risk of long‐term neurological impairment.

In hospital, the procedure should be undertaken at the site of the cardiac arrest without moving to an operating theatre.

Minimal equipment is required to undertake the procedure. Clinical areas where pregnant women are seen should have a designated ‘equipment box’.

Debriefing all personnel is of utmost importance after the acute event.

Learning objectives

To understand why perimortem caesarean section is beneficial to maternal survival.

To appreciate the need for rapid decision making when perimortem caesarean section is required.

To gain practical knowledge of perimortem caesarean section, including the steps to be used when resuscitation is unsuccessful.

Ethical issues

To be aware that the primary aim of perimortem caesarean section is to aid maternal survival, not necessarily fetal survival.
Complications of assisted reproductive technology treatment and the factors influencing reproductive outcome
Authors: Bhandari Harish M , Choudhary Meenakshi K , Stewart Jane A
Published: June 2018

Key content

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and multiple pregnancy risks are the two key complications of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment.

There appears to be no direct association between ART treatment and an increased risk of invasive cancer in infertile women, but there may be a small increased risk of borderline ovarian tumours.

There is suggestive, yet unconvincing, evidence that ART treatment may increase several risks, including childhood cancer risk to children.

A slight increase in the risk of some adverse perinatal outcomes following ART treatment may be caused by the underlying fertility problem.

Female age, ovarian reserve markers and previous obstetric history are the best predictors of ART success.

Currently, there is insufficient evidence to recommend the routine use of some of the interventions to improve reproductive outcome.

Learning objectives

To have an overview of different iatrogenic complications for women undergoing ART and the child or children born following ART treatment.

To understand the evidence‐based synopsis of factors affecting ART success.

To appreciate the limited or conflicting nature of available evidence for certain interventions used to maximise ART treatment outcome.

Ethical issues

Should ART treatment be offered to older women?

What are the long‐term safety implications of some of the ‘adjuvants’ used to improve ART success?
Retracted: Cucumber metal tolerance protein 7 (CsMTP7) is involved in the accumulation of Fe in mitochondria under Fe excess
Authors: Migocka Magdalena , Małas Karolina , Maciaszczyk‐Dziubinska Ewa , Papierniak Anna , Posyniak Ewelina , Garbiec Arnold
Published: June 2018

Retraction statement: ‘Cucumber metal tolerance protein CsMTP 9 is a plasma membrane H+‐coupled antiporter involved in the Mn2+ and Cd2+ efflux from root cells’ by Magdalena Migocka, Anna Papierniak, Anna Kosieradzka, Ewelina Posyniak, Ewa Maciaszczyk‐Dziubinska, Robert Biskup, Arnold Garbiec and Tadeusz Marchewka (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/tpj.13056) and ‘Cucumber metal tolerance protein 7 (CsMTP7) is involved in the accumulation of Fe in mitochondria under Fe excess’ by Magdalena Migocka, Karolina Małas, Ewa Maciaszczyk‐Dziubinska, Anna Papierniak, Ewelina Posyniak and Arnold Garbiec (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/tpj.14006)

The above articles published online in The Plant Journal on 20 October 2015 and 22 June 2018 respectively have been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor‐in‐Chief (Lee Sweetlove), John Wiley & Sons Ltd and the Institute of Experimental Biology, Wroclaw University. The retraction has been agreed due to concern over image manipulation and duplication.