bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mu opioid receptors in GABAergic neurons of the forebrain promote alcohol reward and drinking
Authors: Ben Hamida Sami , Boulos Laura‐Joy , McNicholas Michael , Charbogne Pauline , Kieffer Brigitte Lina 
Published: November 2017

AbstractMu opioid receptors (MORs) are widely distributed throughout brain reward circuits and their role in drug and social reward is well established. Substantial evidence has implicated MOR and the endogenous opioid system in alcohol reward, but circuit mechanisms of MOR‐mediated alcohol reward and intake behavior remain elusive, and have not been investigated by genetic approaches. We recently created conditional knockout (KO) mice targeting the Oprm1 gene in GABAergic forebrain neurons. These mice (Dlx‐MOR KO) show a major MOR deletion in the striatum, whereas receptors in midbrain (including the Ventral Tegmental Area or VTA) and hindbrain are intact. Here, we compared alcohol‐drinking behavior and rewarding effects in total (MOR KO) and conditional KO mice. Concordant with our previous work, MOR KO mice drank less alcohol in continuous and intermittent two‐bottle choice protocols. Remarkably, Dlx‐MOR KO mice showed reduced drinking similar to MOR KO mice, demonstrating that MOR in the forebrain is responsible for the observed phenotype. Further, alcohol‐induced conditioned place preference was detected in control but not MOR KO mice, indicating that MOR is essential for alcohol reward and again, Dlx‐MOR KO recapitulated the MOR KO phenotype. Taste preference and blood alcohol levels were otherwise unchanged in mutant lines. Together, our data demonstrate that MOR expressed in forebrain GABAergic neurons is essential for alcohol reward‐driven behaviors, including drinking and place conditioning. Challenging the prevailing VTA‐centric hypothesis, this study reveals another mechanism of MOR‐mediated alcohol reward and consumption, which does not necessarily require local VTA MORs but rather engages striatal MOR‐dependent mechanisms.
Influence of shaded systems on Xylosandrus compactus infestation in Robusta coffee along a rainfall gradient in Uganda
Authors: Bukomeko Hannington , Jassogne Laurence , Kagezi Godfrey H. , Mukasa David , Vaast Philippe 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
We investigated the relationship between characteristics of coffee shade systems and coffee pest infestation by the black coffee twig borer Xylosandrus compactus Eichhoff. The pest deprives Uganda of $40 millions annually, yet its control remains inadequate.
The present study considered three rainfall zones in Central Uganda and 50 coffee plots that were randomly selected from each rainfall zone. Data were collected on X. compactus infestation and key shade indicators: canopy cover, tree‐species densities, diameter at breast height (DBH) and ratio of coffee to banana.
Cluster analysis revealed two coffee shade systems: a matured shade tree (MST) system and a young poly‐culture (YPC) system. Xylosandrus compactus infestations were significantly less in the MST system than in the YPC system and significantly less in the low rainfall zone than in the high rainfall zone. An increase in the density of Carica papaya and Albizia chinensis significantly reduced and increased X. compactus infestation, respectively. A higher average DBH of individual trees and a higher density of trees that exude sap significantly lowered X. compactus infestation.
Suppressing X. compactus infestation requires bigger trees, a high density of sap‐exuding trees and no Albizia chinensis. Further research should aim to investigate X. compactus flight activity and microclimate influencing X. compactus population dynamics.
The impact of safety nets on technology adoption: a difference‐in‐differences analysis
Authors: Alem Yonas , Broussard Nzinga H. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThis article contributes to a growing body of empirical literature relating credit constraints and incomplete insurance to investment decisions. We use panel data from rural Ethiopia to investigate whether participation in a safety net program enhances fertilizer adoption. Using a difference‐in‐differences estimator and inverse propensity score weighting, we find that participation in Ethiopia's food‐for‐work (FFW) program increased fertilizer adoption in the short run, but not in the long run. Results also indicate that the intensity of fertilizer usage increased with livestock holdings for FFW‐participant households, providing some evidence that the intervention helped asset‐rich farm households more than asset‐poor households. We find no significant effects of free distribution on fertilizer adoption or intensification. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that safety nets can be viewed as mechanisms that allow households to take on more risk to pursue higher profits. The results highlight the importance of safety net programs, their effectiveness in ensuring farmers that they will be protected against uninsured shocks, and how that assurance can translate into productivity‐enhancing behavior.
Heterogeneity of commercialization gains in the rural economy
Authors: Radchenko Natalia , Corral Paul , Winters Paul 
Published: November 2017

AbstractFarmers in low‐income rural economies often fail to switch to cash crops from staple production despite the positive income effects of commercialization expected by policy makers. The literature suggests that market failures prevent households from cash crop adoption but remains inconclusive regarding farmers' motives and the effects of commercialization. This article contributes to the debate by offering an original approach to the analysis of commercialization outcomes and farmers' decisions. It consists of applying a model with essential heterogeneity and a semiparametric estimation technique to analyzing harvest value returns to cash cropping. Using Malawian data, we show considerable heterogeneity in harvest value returns to cash cropping both within and between groups of farmers choosing different crop portfolios. Importantly, the results imply rational choices based on comparative advantage considerations of farming households: farmers self‐select into the activity where they expect higher gains and adopt cash crops when facing weaker market barriers.
Dermoscopic ‘Chaos and Clues’ in the diagnosis of melanomain situ
Authors: Ramji Rajan , Valdes‐Gonzalez Guillermo , Oakley Amanda , Rademaker Marius 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackground/ObjectiveTo describe the dermoscopic features of melanomain situusing theChaos and Cluesmethod.MethodHistologically proven primary melanomain situ(MIS) diagnosed through a specialist teledermoscopy clinic were reviewed by three dermatologists. By consensus they agreed on the global dermoscopic pattern, colours, presence of chaos (asymmetry of colour and structure and more than one pattern), and each of the nine clues described for malignancy.ResultsOne hundredMISin 92 patients of European ethnicity (45 males) were assessed. Mean age was 67.3 years (range 20–95). The mean dimensions of the lesions were 11.1 × 12.0 mm (range 2.5–31.3 × 2.3–32.3 mm). Using pattern analysis, 82% of the lesions had three or more patterns (multicomponent) and the rest had 2 patterns. Colours included light brown (100%), dark brown (98%) and grey (75%). AllMISdemonstrated chaos. The most prevalent clues were thick lines (88%), eccentric structureless areas (88%), and grey or blue structures (75%).ConclusionDermoscopy can be very helpful in the early diagnosis of melanoma andMIS. TheChaos and Cluesmethod is simple to use. Its unambiguous descriptors can be successfully used to describeMIS. The presence of chaos and clues to malignancy (including thick lines, eccentric structureless areas, and blue/grey structures) should raise a red flag and lead to referral or excision.
Antenatal haemoglobin A1c centiles: does one size fit all?
Authors: Hughes Ruth C. E. , Williman Jonathan A. , Gullam Joanna E. 
Published: November 2017

BackgroundIn New Zealand, haemoglobin A1c measurements are routinely offered at booking, preferably before 20 weeks gestation, to detect pre‐existing hyperglycaemia. A haemoglobin A1c <5.9% (41 mmol/mol) is considered normal based on the reference range for the non‐pregnant population.AimsTo determine pregnancy‐specific haemoglobin A1c centiles by gestation and ethnicity.Materials and MethodsThis is a population‐based observational study of pregnancies uncomplicated by diabetes (pre‐existing or gestational) with ≥1 haemoglobin A1c measurement. Haemoglobin A1c centiles were calculated from data extracted from electronic laboratory and clinical records for pregnancies during 2008–2010.ResultsIncluded were 6800 pregnancies, European 80% (5462), Māori 6% (415), Pacific Islander 3% (196) and 11% (727) ‘Others’ (mostly Asian). Haemoglobin A1c levels fell with increasing gestation, reaching a nadir at 24 weeks, a trend verified by longitudinal data from 112 women. The 97.5th centile for haemoglobin A1c in European women was 5.76% (39.5 mmol/mol) at 8+0 weeks, 5.70% (38.8 mmol/mol) at 16+0 weeks, and 5.65% (38.3 mmol/mol) at 24+0 weeks. Non‐European women had both higher plasma glucose levels (although within the range considered normal) and higher mean haemoglobin A1c levels compared with Europeans; mean (SD) difference in haemoglobin A1c in Māori +0.13% (0.05) (+1.4 mmol/mol (0.5)), Pacific +0.20% (0.03) (+2.2 mmol/mol (0.3)), ‘Others’ +0.10% (0.03) (+1.1 mmol/mol (0.3)).ConclusionsThe New Zealand haemoglobin A1c cut‐point ≥5.9% (41 mmol/mol) for identifying hyperglycaemia in early pregnancy is greater than the 97.5th centile in European and ‘Other’ women. Utilising population haemoglobin A1c centiles adjusted by gestation may thus better guide management decisions.
Effect of inter‐twin delivery interval on umbilical artery pH and Apgar score in the second twin
Authors: Tal Alon , Peretz Hadar , Garmi Gali , Zafran Noah , Romano Shabtai , Salim Raed 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackgroundTo examine the effect of inter‐twin delivery interval on umbilical artery pH and Apgar score of the second twin after vaginal delivery of the first twin.MethodsRetrospective study conducted at a single teaching hospital. All pregnant women with twin gestation who delivered the first twin vaginally at more than 24 weeks between 1995 and 2015 were included. Major malformations and intrauterine deaths of one or both twins were excluded. Women were divided into those who had an inter‐twin delivery interval of less than 30 minutes (group 1) or 30 minutes or more (group 2). Primary outcome was umbilical artery pH less than 7.1 and/or Apgar score less than 7 at 5 minutes of the second twin. Generalized linear regression with log was performed to evaluate the association with delivery interval.ResultsOf 88 145 deliveries during this period, 1955 (2.2%) were twins. Overall, 713 twin pregnancies, 596 (83.6%) in group 1 and 117 (16.4%) in group 2, were eligible and included. Mean inter‐delivery interval was 11.0 ± 6.5 and 52.5 ± 31.5 minutes in groups 1 and 2, respectively. After adjusting for variables found significantly different between the groups in univariate analysis, inter‐delivery interval of less than 30 minutes or 30 minutes or more was not a significant risk factor for pH less than 7.1 and/or Apgar less than 7 (P = .91). The cesarean rate for delivery of the second twin after vaginal delivery of the first twin was 4.3% overall, with a higher rate among group 2 compared with group 1 (18.2% and 3.2%, respectively; P = .001).ConclusionsThe second twin's Apgar score and cord artery pH are probably not affected when the inter‐twin delivery interval exceeds 30 minutes.
Birth plans—Impact on mode of delivery, obstetrical interventions, and birth experience satisfaction: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Afshar Yalda , Mei Jenny Y. , Gregory Kimberly D. , Kilpatrick Sarah J. , Esakoff Tania F. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo examine whether the presence of a birth plan was associated with mode of delivery, obstetrical interventions, and patient satisfaction.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies greater than 34 weeks’ gestation powered to evaluate a difference in mode of delivery. Maternal characteristics, antenatal factors, neonatal characteristics, and patient satisfaction measures were compared between groups. Differences between groups were analyzed using chi‐squared for categorical variables, Fisher exact test for dichotomous variables, and Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous or ordinal variables.ResultsThree hundred women were recruited: 143 (48%) had a birth plan. There was no significant difference in the risk of cesarean delivery for women with a birth plan compared with those without a birth plan (21% vs 16%, adjusted odds ratio [adjOR] 1.11 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61‐2.04]). Women with a birth plan were 28% less likely to receive oxytocin (P < .01), 29% less likely to undergo artificial rupture of membranes (P < .01), and 31% less likely to have an epidural (P < .01). There was no difference in the length of labor (P = .12). Women with a birth plan were less satisfied (P < .01) and felt less in control (P < .01) of their birth experience than those without a birth plan.ConclusionWomen with and without a birth plan had similar odds of cesarean delivery. Though they had fewer obstetrical interventions, they were less satisfied with their birth experience, compared with women without birth plans. Further research is needed to understand how to improve childbirth‐related patient satisfaction.
Quantitative mass spectrometry of human reticulocytes reveal proteome‐wide modifications during maturation
Authors: Chu Trang T. T. , Sinha Ameya , Malleret Benoit , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Park Jung E. , Naidu Renugah , Das Rupambika , Dutta Bamaprasad , Ong Seow Theng , Verma Navin K. , Chan Jerry K. , Nosten François , Rénia Laurent , Sze Siu K. , Russell Bruce , Chandramohanadas Rajesh 
Published: November 2017

SummaryErythropoiesis is marked by progressive changes in morphological, biochemical and mechanical properties of erythroid precursors to generate red blood cells (RBC). The earliest enucleated forms derived in this process, known as reticulocytes, are multi‐lobular and spherical. As reticulocytes mature, they undergo a series of dynamic cytoskeletal re‐arrangements and the expulsion of residual organelles, resulting in highly deformable biconcave RBCs (normocytes). To understand the significant, yet neglected proteome‐wide changes associated with reticulocyte maturation, we undertook a quantitative proteomics approach. Immature reticulocytes (marked by the presence of surface transferrin receptor, CD71) and mature RBCs (devoid of CD71) were isolated from human cord blood using a magnetic separation procedure. After sub‐fractionation into triton‐extracted membrane proteins and luminal samples (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation), quantitative mass spectrometry was conducted to identify more than 1800 proteins with good confidence and coverage. While most structural proteins (such as Spectrins, Ankyrin and Band 3) as well as surface glycoproteins were conserved, proteins associated with microtubule structures, such as Talin‐1/2 and ß‐Tubulin, were detected only in immature reticulocytes. Atomic force microscopy (AFM)‐based imaging revealed an extended network of spectrin filaments in reticulocytes (with an average length of 48 nm), which shortened during reticulocyte maturation (average spectrin length of 41 nm in normocytes). The extended nature of cytoskeletal network may partly account for increased deformability and shape changes, as reticulocytes transform to normocytes.
Transplant results in adults with Fanconi anaemia
Authors: Bierings Marc , Bonfim Carmem , Peffault De Latour Regis , Aljurf Mahmoud , Mehta Parinda A. , Knol Cora , Boulad Farid , Tbakhi Abdelghani , Esquirol Albert , McQuaker Grant , Sucak Gulsan A. , Othman Tarek B. , Halkes Constantijn J. M. , Carpenter Ben , Niederwieser Dietger , Zecca Marco , Kröger Nicolaus , Michallet Mauricette , Risitano Antonio M. , Ehninger Gerhard , Porcher Raphael , Dufour Carlo ,   EBMT SAA WP
Published: November 2017

SummaryThe outcomes of adult patients transplanted for Fanconi anaemia (FA) have not been well described. We retrospectively analysed 199 adult patients with FA transplanted between 1991 and 2014. Patients were a median of 16 years of age when diagnosed with FA, and underwent transplantation at a median age of 23 years. Time between diagnosis and transplant was shortest (median 2 years) in those patients who had a human leucocyte antigen identical sibling donor. Fifty four percent of patients had bone marrow (BM) failure at transplantation and 46% had clonal disease (34% myelodysplasia, 12% acute leukaemia). BM was the main stem cell source, the conditioning regimen included cyclophosphamide in 96% of cases and fludarabine in 64%. Engraftment occurred in 82% (95% confidence interval [CI] 76–87%), acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD) grade II–IV in 22% (95% CI 16–28%) and the incidence of chronic GvHD at 96 months was 26% (95% CI 20–33). Non‐relapse mortality at 96 months was 56% with an overall survival of 34%, which improved with more recent transplants. Median follow‐up was 58 months. Patients transplanted after 2000 had improved survival (84% at 36 months), using BM from an identical sibling and fludarabine in the conditioning regimen. Factors associated with improved outcome in multivariate analysis were use of fludarabine and an identical sibling or matched non‐sibling donor. Main causes of death were infection (37%), GvHD (24%) and organ failure (12%). The presence of clonal disease at transplant did not significant impact on survival. Secondary malignancies were reported in 15 of 131 evaluable patients.
Vitamin D and calcium supplementation, skeletal muscle strength and serum testosterone in young healthy adult males: Randomized control trial
Authors: Saha Soma , Goswami Ravinder , Ramakrishnan Lakshmy , Vishnubhatla Sreenivas , Mahtab Samrina , Kar Parmita , Srinivasan Sunita , Singh Namrata , Singh Upinderpal 
Published: November 2017

SummaryBackgroundCholecalciferol and/or calcium supplementation might increase skeletal muscle strength and serum testosterone in young adult males.ObjectiveWe performed a randomized control trial assessing the effect of cholecalciferol/calcium on skeletal muscle strength and serum testosterone in vitamin D deficient young males.DesignTwo‐by‐two factorial RCT.Subject and InterventionTwo‐hundred and twenty‐eight young males were block‐randomized to (i) double‐placebo, (ii) calcium/placebo, (iii) cholecalciferol/placebo and (iv) cholecalciferol/calcium. Doses for cholecalciferol were 60 000 IU/wk for 8 weeks followed by 60 000 IU/fortnightly, and doses for elemental calcium were 500 mg/twice daily for 6 months. A total of 180 subjects completed the study protocol. Their ean age, body mass index and baseline 25(OH)D were 20.2 ± 2.2 years, 23.0 ± 3.6 kg/m2 and 21.5 ± 9.5 nmol/L, respectively.MeasurementsHandgrip (primary outcome), pinch‐grip strength, distance walked in 6 minutes, dyspnoea‐score, quality of life by Short Form 36, serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2D, iPTH, total testosterone and free androgen index (FAI).ResultsAfter intervention, mean serum 25(OH)D was >75.0 nmol/L in cholecalciferol groups. However, the handgrip strength (29.7 ± 4.4, 29.3 ± 4.6, 30.6 ± 5.0 and 28.8 ± 4.3 kg, P = .28) was comparable in the 4 groups. Subgroups analysis among subjects with baseline serum 25OH)D < 25.0 and <12.0 nmol/L showed similar results. The mean serum testosterone decreased significantly at 6 months; however, delta change was similar in 4 groups. Change in handgrip strength and other outcomes was similar in 4 groups with and without adjustment for delta testosterone and FAI.ConclusionsSix months of cholecalciferol/calcium supplementation had no significant effect on skeletal muscle strength and serum testosterone in young adult males.
Clinical guidance for radioiodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Gild Matti L. , Topliss Duncan J. , Learoyd Diana , Parnis Francis , Tie Jeanne , Hughes Brett , Walsh John P. , McLeod Donald S.A. , Clifton‐Bligh Roderick J. , Robinson Bruce G. 
Published: November 2017

SummaryPrognosis from differentiated thyroid cancer is worse when the disease becomes refractory to radioiodine. Until recently, treatment options have been limited to local therapies such as surgery and radiotherapy, but the recent availability of systemic therapies now provides some potential for disease control. Multitargeted kinase inhibitors (TKIs) including lenvatinib and sorafenib have been shown to improve progression‐free survival in phase III clinical trials, but are also associated with a spectrum of adverse effects. Other TKIs have been utilized as “redifferentiation” agents, increasing sodium iodide symporter expression in metastases and thus restoring radioiodine avidity. Some patients whose disease progresses on initial TKI therapy will still respond to a different TKI and clinical trials currently in progress will clarify the best options for such patients. As these drugs are not inexpensive, care needs to be taken to minimize not only biological but also financial toxicity. In this review, we examine the basic biology of radioiodine refractory disease and discuss optimal treatment approaches, with specific focus on choice and timing of TKI treatment. This clinical field remains fluid, and directions for future research include exploring biomarkers and considering adjuvant TKI use in certain patient groups.
Homozygous mutation in ELMO2 may cause Ramon syndrome
Authors: Mehawej C. , Hoischen A. , Farah R.A. , Marey I. , David M. , Stora S. , Lachlan K. , Brunner H.G. , Mégarbané A. 
Published: November 2017

We report on a girl, born to first cousin Lebanese parents, with intellectual disability, seizures, repeated gingivorrhagia, enlarged lower and upper jaws, overgrowth of the gums, high arched and narrow palate, crowded teeth, hirsutism of the back, large abdomen and a small umbilical hernia. Cysts of the mandible, fibrous dysplasia of bones, and enlarged adenoids causing around 60% narrowing of the nasopharyngeal airways were noted at radiographic examination. Her brother presented with the same features in addition to a short stature, an ostium secundum, and more pronounced intellectual disability. He died at the age of 8 years from a severe pulmonary infection and repeated bleeding episodes. A clinical diagnosis of Ramon syndrome was made.Whole exome sequencing studies performed on the family revealed the presence of a novel homozygous missense mutation in ELMO2 gene, p.I606S in the affected individuals. Loss of function mutations in ELMO2 have been recently described in another clinically distinct condition: primary intraosseous vascular malformation or intraosseous hemangioma, called VMOS. Review of the literature and differential diagnoses are discussed.
Black swans, cognition, and the power of learning from failure
Authors: Catalano Allison S. , Redford Kent , Margoluis Richard , Knight Andrew T. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractFailure carries undeniable stigma and is difficult to confront for individuals, teams, and organizations. Disciplines such as commercial and military aviation, medicine, and business have long histories of grappling with it, beginning with the recognition that failure is inevitable in every human endeavor. Although conservation may arguably be more complex, conservation professionals can draw on the research and experience of these other disciplines to institutionalize activities and attitudes that foster learning from failure, whether they are minor setbacks or major disasters. Understanding the role of individual cognitive biases, team psychological safety, and organizational willingness to support critical self‐examination all contribute to creating a cultural shift in conservation to one that is open to the learning opportunity that failure provides. This new approach to managing failure is a necessary next step in the evolution of conservation effectiveness.