bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untreated, Uncontrolled, and Apparent Resistant Hypertension: Results of the German Health Examination Survey 2008–2011
Authors: Sarganas Giselle , Neuhauser Hannelore K.
Published: August 2016

The prevalence and associated factors of untreated, uncontrolled, and apparent‐resistant hypertension (RH) in Germany are unknown. Based on European Society of Hypertension criteria, apparent RH was defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥140/90 mm Hg (≥140/85 mm Hg in diabetics) under treatment with three different classes of antihypertensive agents including a diuretic. Data from the German Health Examination Survey (2008–2011; n=7115, age 18–79 years) including standardized BP measurements and Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical–coded taken medications were analyzed. Among patients aware of their hypertensive status (n=2205), 37.9% were uncontrolled and, among those, 33.4% were untreated. Being aware and having untreated and uncontrolled BP was associated with male sex, young age, not having cardiovascular disease, not performing BP self‐measurement, not being obese, and not smoking. Apparent RH occurred in 6.8% of treated aware hypertensive patients and was positively associated with having diabetes. The proportion of uncontrolled BP is still high. Not having “obvious risk factors” has become a risk itself for having untreated and uncontrolled hypertension.
Cognitive and adaptive advantages of growth hormone treatment in children with Prader‐Willi syndrome
Authors: Dykens Elisabeth M. , Roof Elizabeth , Hunt‐Hawkins Hailee
Published: August 2016

Background

People with Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS) typically have mild to moderate intellectual deficits, compulsivity, hyperphagia, obesity, and growth hormone deficiencies. Growth hormone treatment (GHT) in PWS has well‐established salutatory effects on linear growth and body composition, yet cognitive benefits of GHT, seen in other patient groups, have not been well studied in PWS.

Methods

Study 1 included 96 children and youth with PWS aged 4–21 years who naturalistically varied in their exposures to GHT. Controlling for socioeconomic status, analyses compared cognitive and adaptive behavior test scores across age‐matched treatment naïve versus growth hormone treated children. Study II assessed if age of treatment initiation or treatment duration was associated with subsequent cognition or adaptive behavior in 127, 4‐ to 21‐year olds with PWS. Study III longitudinally examined cognitive and adaptive behavior in 168 participants who were either consistently on versus off GHT for up to 4–5 years.

Results

Compared to the treatment naïve group, children receiving GHT had significantly higher Verbal and Composite IQs, and adaptive communication and daily living skills. Children who began treatment before 12 months of age had higher Nonverbal and Composite IQs than children who began treatment between 1 and 5 years of age. Longitudinally, the groups differed in their intercepts, but not slopes, with each group showing stable IQ and adaptive behavior scores over time.

Conclusions

Cognitive and adaptive advantages should be considered an ancillary benefit and additional justification for GHT in people with PWS. Future efforts need to target apparent socioeconomic inequities in accessing GHT in the PWS population.
Ultrastructural Comparison of Hepatozoon ixoxo and Hepatozoon theileri (Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae), Parasitising South African Anurans
Authors: Conradie Roxanne , Cook Courtney A. , du Preez Louis H. , Jordaan Anine , Netherlands Edward C.
Published: August 2016

To date, only two haemogregarine parasite species have been described from South African anurans: Hepatozoon ixoxo, infecting toads of the genus Sclerophrys (syn. Amietophrynus); and Hepatozoon theileri, parasitising the common river frog, Amietia quecketti. Both species have been characterised using limited morphology, and molecular data from PCR amplified fragments of the 18S rRNA gene. However, no ultrastructural work has been performed thus far. The aim of this study was to add descriptive information on the two species by studying their ultrastructural morphology. Mature gamont stages, common in the peripheral blood of infected frogs, were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Results indicate that H. ixoxo and H. theileri share typical apicomplexan characteristics, but differ markedly in their external cellular structure. Hepatozoon ixoxo is an encapsulated parasite presenting a prominent cap at the truncate pole, and shows no visible modifications to the host cell membrane. In comparison, H. theileri does not present a capsule or cap, and produces marked morphological changes to its host cell. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to further examine the cytopathological effects of H. theileri, and results revealed small, knob‐like protrusions on the erythrocyte surface, as well as notable distortion of the overall shape of the host cell.
Oral Health Status Is Associated with Common Medical Comorbidities in Older Hospital Inpatients
Authors: Ní Chróinín Danielle , Montalto Adrian , Jahromi Shahrzad , Ingham Nicholas , Beveridge Alexander , Foltyn Peter
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To investigate oral health status and abnormalities in older adults admitted acutely to the hospital and explore the association with common medical comorbidities.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Hospital.

Participants

All individuals aged 70 and older (mean age 84.4, 61.4% female) admitted to a geriatric service over 3 months (N = 202).

Measurements

In‐person assessment using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT) (range 0–2, 2 = poorest) for lips, tongue, gums and soft tissue, saliva, teeth, dentures, oral cleanliness, and dental pain. Comorbidities and medications were also recorded.

Results

One hundred twenty‐eight (63%) participants had full or partial dentures, and 31 (15%) were edentulous. Median OHAT score was 6 (interquartile range 5–8). Of the eight domains, saliva scored worst, with 53% scoring 2. On univariate analysis, the highest (poorest) tertile of OHAT (score ≥8) was associated with dementia (odds ratio (OR) = 2.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13–5.12, P = .02), moderate to severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2 at discharge) (OR = 5.52, 95% CI = 1.54–19.69, P = .009), recent anticholinergic medication burden (P = .02), and low oral pH (P = .05). On multivariate analysis adjusted for oral pH and anticholinergic medication burden, dementia (OR = 2.29, P = .02) and moderate to severe renal impairment (OR = 5.64, P = .01) were independently associated with the highest tertile of OHAT. Charlson Comorbidity Index (includes renal disease, dementia) was associated with OHAT on univariate analysis (Spearman rho = 0.19, P = .01) but not when adjusted for oral pH (P = .10).

Conclusion

Poorer oral health was not uncommon and was associated with dementia and renal impairment even after adjustment for anticholinergic medication and oral pH. Oral health screening should be considered for vulnerable populations.
The metahyaloclastitic matrix of a unique metavolcanic block reveals subduction in the Somozas Mélange (Cabo Ortegal Complex, NW Iberia): tectonic implications for the assembly of Pangea
Authors: Novo‐Fernández I. , Garcia‐Casco A. , Arenas R. , Díez Fernández R.
Published: August 2016

The allochthonous Cabo Ortegal Complex (NW Iberian Massif) contains a ~500 m thick serpentinite‐matrix mélange located in the lowest structural position, the Somozas Mélange. The mélange occurs at the leading edge of a thick nappe pile constituted by a variety of terranes transported to the East (present‐day coordinates; NW Iberian allochthonous complexes), with continental and oceanic affinities, and represents a Variscan suture. Among other types of metaigneous (calcalkaline suite dated at 527–499 Ma) and metasedimentary blocks, it contains close‐packed pillow‐lavas and broken pillow‐breccias with a metahyaloclastitic matrix formed by muscovite–paragonite–margarite–garnet–chlorite–kyanite–hematite–epidote–quartz–rutile. Pseudosection modelling in the MnCNTKFMASHO system indicates metamorphic peak conditions of ~17.5–18 kbar and ~550 °C followed by near‐isothermal decompression. This P–T evolution indicates subduction/accretion of an arc‐derived section of peri‐Gondwanan transitional crust. Subduction below the Variscan orogenic wedge evolved to continental collision with important dextral component. Closure of the remaining oceanic peri‐Gondwanan domain and associated release of fluid led to hydration of the overlying mantle wedge and the formation of a low‐viscosity subduction channel, where return flow formed the mélange. The submarine metavolcanic rocks were deformed and detached from the subducting transitional crust and eventually incorporated into the subduction channel, where they experienced fast exhumation. Due to the cryptic nature of the high‐P metamorphism preserved in its tectonic blocks, the significance of the Somozas Mélange had remained elusive, but it is made clear here for the first time as an important tectonic boundary within the Variscan Orogen formed during the late stages of the continental convergence leading to the assembly of Pangea.
Female Sex Hormones Influence the Febrile Response Induced by Lipopolysaccharide, Cytokines and Prostaglandins but not by Interleukin‐1β in Rats
Authors: Brito H. O. , Radulski D. R. , Wilhelms D. B. , Stojakovic A. , Brito L. M. O. , Engblom D. , Franco C. R. C. , Zampronio A. R.
Published: August 2016

There are differences in the immune response, and particularly fever, between males and females. In the present study, we investigated how the febrile responses induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and different endogenous pyrogens were affected by female gonadal hormones. The febrile response to i.p. injection of LPS (50 μg/kg) was 40% lower in female rats compared to male or ovariectomised (OVX) female rats. Accordingly, oestrogen replacement in OVX animals reduced LPS‐induced fever. Treatment with the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor indomethacin (2 mg/kg, i.p. 30 min before) reduced the febrile response induced by LPS in both OVX (88%) and sham‐operated (71%) rats. In line with the enhanced fever in OVX rats, there was increased expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) in the hypothalamus and elevated levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In addition, OVX rats were hyper‐responsive to PGE2 injected i.c.v. By contrast to the enhanced fever in response to LPS and PGE2, the febrile response induced by i.c.v. injection of interleukin (IL)‐1β was unaffected by ovariectomy, whereas the responses induced by tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)‐1α were completely abrogated. These results suggest that the mediators involved in the febrile response in females are similar to males, although the reduction of female hormones may decrease the responsiveness of some mediators such as TNF‐α and MIP‐1α. Compensatory mechanisms may be activated in females after ovariectomy such as an augmented synthesis of COX‐2 and PGE2.
Geometric morphometrics reveals restrictions on the shape of the female os coxae
Authors: Candelas González Nieves , Rascón Pérez Josefina , Chamero Beatriz , Cambra‐Moo Oscar , González Martín Armando
Published: August 2016

The methodology for sex determination in human skeletal remains depends on the different bone morphologies presented by men and women. Due to their direct implications in reproduction, the whole pelvis, particularly the os coxae, shows different characteristics in either sex. The sacrum and the os coxae constitute the birth canal. In this research study, the os coxae shape is analyzed using geometric morphometrics, providing information on morphology, regardless of size or any other factor beyond the geometry itself. A total of 46 adult ossa coxae from a Spanish archaeological collection were studied using geometric morphometrics. The results show that there is a restriction on the shape of female os coxae. In contrast, male os coxae presents a greater range of variation. The biological reason for this difference is the obstetrical dilemma; a concept defined as the anatomical conflict between bipedalism and the full‐term birth of a neonate whose large head requires greater dimensions in the pelvic cavity. Our experimental data reinforce the validity of the obstetrical dilemma as source of the restriction on the shape of female ossa coxae. Additionally, according to the results obtained, size itself does not represent a condition for belonging to one sex or another.
An evaluation of the effectiveness of self‐management interventions for people with type 2 diabetes after an acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review
Authors: Tanash Mu'ath Ibrahim , Fitzsimons Donna , Coates Vivien , Deaton Christi
Published: August 2016

Background

Type 2 diabetes is highly prevalent in patients with acute coronary syndrome and impacts negatively on health outcomes and self‐management. Both conditions share similar risk factors. However, there is insufficient evidence on the effectiveness of combined interventions to promote self‐management behaviour for people with diabetes and cardiac problems. Identifying critical features of successful interventions will inform future integrated self‐management programmes for patients with both conditions.

Objectives

To assess the evidence on the effectiveness of existing interventions to promote self‐management behaviour for patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome and type 2 diabetes in secondary care settings and postdischarge.

Design

We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library and AMED for randomised controlled trials published between January 2005–December 2014. The search was performed using the following search terms of ‘acute coronary syndrome’, ‘type 2 diabetes’ and ‘self‐management intervention’ and their substitutes combined.

Results

Of 4275 articles that were retrieved, only four trials met all the inclusion criteria (population, intervention, comparison and outcome) and were analysed. Overall, the results show that providing combined interventions for patients with both conditions including educational sessions supported by multimedia or telecommunication technologies was partially successful in promoting self‐management behaviours. Implementation of these combined interventions during patient's hospitalisation and postdischarge was feasible. Intervention group subjects reported a significant improvement in self‐efficacy, level of knowledge, glycated haemoglobin, blood pressure and fasting glucose test. However, there are many threats have been noticed around internal validity of included studies that could compromise the conclusions drawn.

Conclusion

With limited research in this area, there was no final evidence to support effectiveness of combined interventions to promote self‐management behaviour for patients with type 2 diabetes and acute coronary syndrome. Sufficiently powered, good quality, well‐conducted and reported randomised controlled trials are required.
Women's knowledge and use of prenatal screening tests
Authors: Seven Memnun , Akyüz Aygül , Eroglu Kafiye , Daack‐Hirsch Sandra , Skirton Heather
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of the study was to determine the rate of use of prenatal screening tests and the factors affecting the decision to have a prenatal screening test in pregnant women in Turkey.

Background

Prenatal genetic screening as an optional service is commonly used to determine a level of risk for genetic conditions in the foetus.

Design

A quantitative cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Pregnant women (n = 274) who sought prenatal care from one hospital in Turkey were recruited and asked to complete questionnaires that were developed by the researchers. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data.

Results

Almost half (44·2) % of the women were primiparas, and the majority (97·8%) were in the third trimester of pregnancy. Only 36·1% of the women reported that they had prenatal screening by either the double test or triple test. Women had a low level of knowledge regarding prenatal screening: the mean knowledge score was 3·43 ± 3·21 of a possible score of 10. Having consanguineous marriage, a history of spontaneous abortion, a child with genetic disorder, multiparity or a longer marriage duration were positively correlated with accepting a prenatal screening test.

Conclusions

This study has provided baseline data on the uptake and reasons for accepting or declining a prenatal screening in a cohort of Turkish women. There is evidence to suggest that more education is needed to improve knowledge and provide comprehensive nursing care to promote informed consent in this context.

Relevance to clinical practice

Perinatal nurses are ideally situated to inform pregnant women about prenatal screening tests to improve access to healthcare services and to ensure informed decisions are made by pregnant women and their partners.
Assessing patient outcomes and cost‐effectiveness of nurse‐led follow‐up for women with breast cancer – have relevant and sensitive evaluation measures been used?
Authors: Browall Maria , Forsberg Christina , Wengström Yvonne
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore how interventions using nurse‐led follow‐up in breast cancer care have been evaluated with a focus on patient outcomes and cost‐effectiveness.

Background

As part of the advancement of breast care, nurse‐led follow‐up is increasingly used as an alternative to routine hospital follow‐up in outpatient clinics. There is evidence suggesting that patients appear to be satisfied with the nurse‐led follow‐up, but there is a lack of evidence of whether this perception equates to patients’ satisfaction with the model of physician‐led follow‐up.

Design

Systematic review.

Method

Three databases were searched, and 29 RCT were initially screened. Finally, 13 articles were critically appraised. Searches included articles between 2005–2013. The quality of appraisal assessment was inspired by the GRADE system.

Results

The results show that there are many different instruments used when evaluating nurse‐led follow‐up, which makes it difficult to compare the studies. Several of the studies used QoL as an outcome measure; this is a broad concept that includes several aspects ranging from social role and psychosocial issues to symptoms and therefore difficult to use as an outcome measure. Only two of the studies made any cost‐effective analyses, and the results are hard to interpret.

Conclusions

Nurse‐led follow‐up can potentially result in better continuity of care and the availability of more time to provide psychosocial support and address patients’ information needs. However, more well‐conducted research is needed before equivalence to physician‐led follow‐up can be assessed in terms of survival, recurrence, patient well‐being and cost‐effectiveness.

Relevance to clinical practice

Results from well‐conducted evaluation studies of nurse‐led services based on theory are needed so that relevant interventions can be implemented in clinical practice. There is a need to in future studies include cost‐effectiveness analyses to compare nurse‐led services with other types of follow‐up.
Equity Dynamics in the Perceived Fairness of Infant Care
Authors: DeMaris Alfred , Mahoney Annette
Published: August 2016

How is the perceived fairness of infant care affected by spouses' relative contributions to it and to other domains of their relationship? Longitudinal data on 178 couples expecting the birth of their first child were collected during a period spanning approximately the first year of the child's life. Overall, wives were more likely than husbands to see infant care as fair to the wife. Net of fathers' contributions to infant care, spouses were more likely to see infant care as fair to wives the more the father worked in paid labor and did housework and the more wives benefited in the sexual relationship. Fathers' contributions to infant care had a stronger effect on fairness when the child was a son. The findings are consistent with equity predictions in that fathers' compensatory contributions to other domains of marriage counterbalance an unequal workload in the arena of family work.
Retrospective characterisation of solitary cutaneous histiocytoma with lymph node metastasis in eight dogs
Authors: Faller M. , Lamm C. , Affolter V. K. , Valerius K. , Schwartz S. , Moore P. F.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVES

To describe a small subset of canine solitary cutaneous histiocytoma in which lymph node metastasis has been documented.

METHODS

Cases of dogs with solitary cutaneous histiocytoma lesions and regional lymph node metastasis diagnosed via histopathology were found through a retrospective search of the databases of IDEXX Laboratories and the University of California, Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories. Information on signalment, history and clinical follow‐up was obtained from the submittal form and/or via a questionnaire to the submitting veterinarian. Slides were available for review in seven cases and when possible immunohistochemistry was reviewed or performed by a single pathologist.

RESULTS

Eight cases met the inclusion criteria. The neoplasms had the typical appearance of histiocytomas. All tested samples were immunoreactive for CD18 and lacked immunoreactivity for other lymphocyte markers and CD11d. Immunoreactivity for E‐cadherin varied among the neoplasms tested. Outcome was known for five dogs and at the time of manuscript preparation three of those dogs were alive 1682 days, 570 days and 318 days post‐diagnosis. Of the other two dogs with known outcome, one was euthanased shortly after diagnosis and another was hit by a car. Of the dogs that were eventually lost to follow‐up, one was reported to be disease‐free 1003 days after diagnosis.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Metastatic histiocytoma is rarely reported and distinction from aggressive disease processes such as histiocytic sarcoma may be difficult. Based upon a small number of cases with known outcomes, some dogs with solitary metastatic histiocytoma may experience favourable outcomes.
Prediction of whelping date in large and giant canine breeds by ultrasonography foetal biometry
Authors: Alonge S. , Beccaglia M. , Melandri M. , Luvoni G. C.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVES

To derive the growth curves of the inner chorionic cavity and the biparietal diameter in large and giant dog breeds by ultrasonographic foetal biometry. To evaluate their accuracy in the prediction of whelping date and the effect of litter size and foetal sex ratio.

METHODS

Foetal biometry parameters were obtained using serial ultrasonographic examinations in eight large (26 to 40 kg) and nine giant (>40 kg) pregnant bitches with known breeding dates and concentrations of serum progesterone during oestrus. The relationship between inner chorionic cavity or biparietal diameter growth and days to parturition were analysed by linear regression and the equations derived from the growth curves were applied to predict the whelping day. The accuracy of the prediction (whelping day ±1 day and ±2 days) and the litter size and sex ratio were recorded.

RESULTS

The results showed a significant relationship between days before parturition and inner chorionic cavity or biparietal diameter. The overall accuracy at ±2 days was greater, than that at ±1 day. In giant breed bitches, the accuracy of the prediction by biparietal diameter was significantly lower in small, than normal litter size. No effect of foetal sex ratio was observed.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Foetal biometry parameters obtained by ultrasonography can be used to predict whelping dates in large and giant dog breeds.
Polyglandular endocrinopathy type II (Schmidt's syndrome) in a Dobermann pinscher
Authors: Cartwright J. A. , Stone J. , Rick M. , Dunning M. D.
Published: August 2016

A three‐year‐old, female neutered, Dobermann pinscher was presented for investigation of lethargy, episodic collapse, ataxia and myxoedema. Primary hypothyroidism and primary cortisol‐deficient hypoadrenocorticism were diagnosed based on history, physical examination and compatible hormonal analysis. Increased serum concentrations of thyroglobulin autoantibodies and 21‐hydroxylase autoantibodies indicated an immune‐mediated aetiology. The case was complicated by lymphadenopathy with hand‐mirror lymphocytes, classically identified in lymphoma. A polymerase chain reaction test for antigen receptor rearrangement indicated polyclonality and therefore reactive lymphadenopathy. The dog's clinical signs resolved following introduction of levothyroxine and prednisolone. Prioritising the problem‐based approach in this case facilitated the diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism in addition to hypothyroidism due to the persistence of clinical signs despite thyroxine replacement. Importantly, atypical adrenal gland dysfunction was not misinterpreted as inadequate therapeutic response to thyroxine supplementation. The observation that polyglandular endocrinopathy typeIIcan occur in dogs suggests that in dogs with a suboptimal response to treatment for hypothyroidism or hypoadrenocorticism comorbid endocrinopathies should be investigated.
Intensification with pegylated interferon during treatment with tenofovir in HIV–hepatitis B virus co‐infected patients
Authors: Boyd A. , Piroth L. , Maylin S. , Maynard‐Muet M. , Lebossé F. , Bouix C. , Lascoux‐Combe C. , Mahjoub N. , Girard P.‐M. , Delaugerre C. , Carrat F. , Lacombe K. , Miailhes P.
Published: August 2016

In hepatitis B “e” antigen (HBeAg) positive patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) mono‐infection, intensification of nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment with pegylated interferon (PegIFN) could help induce higher HBeAg seroclearance rates. Our aim was to determine the long‐term effect of adding PegIFN to tenofovir (TDF)‐containing antiretroviral therapy on seroclearance in HBeAg‐positive patients co‐infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HBV. In this prospective matched cohort study, 46 patients with 1‐year PegIFN intensification during TDF‐containing antiretroviral therapy (TDF+PegIFN) were matched 1:1 to controls undergoing TDF without PegIFN (TDF) using a time‐dependent propensity score based on age, CD4+ count and liver cirrhosis status. Kinetics of HBeAg quantification (qHBeAg) and hepatitis B surface antigen quantification (qHBsAg) were estimated using mixed‐effect linear regression and time to HBeAg seroclearance or HBsAg seroclearance was modelled using proportional hazards regression. At baseline, previous TDF exposure was a median 39.8 months (IQR=21.4–59.4) and median qHBeAg and qHBsAg levels were 6.9 PEIU/mL and 3.72 log10IU/mL, respectively (P>.5 between groups). Median follow‐up was 33.4 months (IQR=19.0–36.3). During intensification, faster average declines of qHBeAg (−0.066 vs −0.027 PEIU/mL/month, P=.001) and qHBsAg (−0.049 vs −0.026 log10IU/mL/month, P=.09) were observed in patients undergoing TDF+PegIFN vs TDF, respectively. After intensification, qHBeAg and qHBsAg decline was no different between groups (P=.7 and P=.9, respectively). Overall, no differences were observed in HBeAg seroclearance (TDF+PegIFN=13.2 vs TDF=12.6/100 person·years, P=.5) or HBsAg seroclearance rates (TDF+PegIFN=1.8 vs TDF=1.3/100 person·years, P=.7). In conclusion, PegIFN intensification in HBeAg‐positive co‐infected patients did not lead to increased rates of HBeAg or HBsAg clearance, despite faster declines of antigen levels while on PegIFN.
Intermittent At‐Home Suctioning of Esophageal Content for Prevention of Recurrent Aspiration Pneumonia in 4 Dogs with Megaesophagus
Authors: Manning K. , Birkenheuer A.J. , Briley J. , Montgomery S.A. , Harris J. , Vanone S.L. , Gookin J.L.
Published: August 2016

Background

Megaesophagus carries a poor to guarded prognosis due to death from aspiration pneumonia. Options for medical management of regurgitation are limited to strategic oral or gastrostomy tube feeding.

Objectives

To describe the use and efficacy of intermittent esophageal suctioning to prevent regurgitation and associated episodes of aspiration pneumonia in dogs with megaesophagus.

Animals

Four dogs with acquired idiopathic megaesophagus and recurrent aspiration pneumonia.

Methods

Retrospective review of medical records of dogs with megaesophagus in which intermittent suctioning of esophageal content was employed for management of recurrent aspiration pneumonia.

Results

Intermittent suctioning of the esophagus was initiated in 4 dogs after failure of strict gastrostomy tube feeding failed to prevent regurgitation and repeated episodes of aspiration pneumonia. Suctioning was accomplished by esophagostomy tube in 3 dogs and per os in 1 dog. After initiation of esophageal suctioning, dogs survived for a median of 13.5 additional months (range, 10–30 months) during which time 2 dogs had no additional episodes of aspiration pneumonia and 2 dogs had infrequent episodes of pneumonia, but aspiration was suspected to be a contributing factor in their death. Complications included clogging of the esophagostomy tube, esophagostomy site infections, and esophagitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Use of intermittent esophageal suctioning in dogs with megaesophagus that continue to regurgitate despite gastrostomy tube feedings can reduce or abolish clinical episodes of aspiration pneumonia.
Impacts into quartz sand: Crater formation, shock metamorphism, and ejecta distribution in laboratory experiments and numerical models
Authors: Wünnemann Kai , Zhu Meng‐Hua , Stöffler Dieter
Published: August 2016

We investigated the ejection mechanics by a complementary approach of cratering experiments, including the microscopic analysis of material sampled from these experiments, and 2‐D numerical modeling of vertical impacts. The study is based on cratering experiments in quartz sand targets performed at the NASA Ames Vertical Gun Range. In these experiments, the preimpact location in the target and the final position of ejecta was determined by using color‐coded sand and a catcher system for the ejecta. The results were compared with numerical simulations of the cratering and ejection process to validate the iSALE shock physics code. In turn the models provide further details on the ejection velocities and angles. We quantify the general assumption that ejecta thickness decreases with distance according to a power‐law and that the relative proportion of shocked material in the ejecta increase with distance. We distinguish three types of shock metamorphic particles (1) melt particles, (2) shock lithified aggregates, and (3) shock‐comminuted grains. The agreement between experiment and model was excellent, which provides confidence that the models can predict ejection angles, velocities, and the degree of shock loading of material expelled from a crater accurately if impact parameters such as impact velocity, impactor size, and gravity are varied beyond the experimental limitations. This study is relevant for a quantitative assessment of impact gardening on planetary surfaces and the evolution of regolith layers on atmosphereless bodies.
Possible Link Between Medical Students' Motivation for Academic Work and Time Engaged in Physical Exercise
Authors: Aung Myo Nyein , Somboonwong Juraiporn , Jaroonvanichkul Vorapol , Wannakrairot Pongsak
Published: August 2016

Physical exercise results in an active well‐being. It is likely that students' engagement in physical exercise keeps them motivated to perform academic endeavors. This study aimed to assess the relation of time engaged in physical exercise with medical students' motivation for academic work. Prospectively, 296 second‐year medical students self‐administered Vallerand's Academic Motivation Scale. The frequency of exercise per week and the duration per time were multiplied to compute a weekly physical exercise engagement time. Multivariable regression model treated the intrinsic motivation construct as the dependent variable, adjusting relevant covariates such as sleeping time, sitting time, screen time, and vegetable intake. The level of intrinsic motivation was positively related to the student's physical exercise time per week (β 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.42–1.26, p‐value < 0.001). Thus, generating conditions in which students can engage in physical exercise may contribute to fostering their intrinsic motivation for academic work.
The Neurocognitive Development of Episodic Prospection and Its Implications for Academic Achievement
Authors: Prabhakar Janani , Coughlin Christine , Ghetti Simona
Published: August 2016

Episodic prospection is the ability to mentally simulate personal future events that are rich in contextual detail and plausible for the individual. It therefore incorporates episodic information (who, what, where, and when of a particular event), as well as details about one's self (e.g., knowledge, goals, motivations and desires). The ability to mentally simulate personal future events is thought to serve an adaptive purpose as it allows the individual to plan actions that align with his or her future goals and challenges. This review seeks to integrate research exploring how changes in episodic memory and self‐concept, and their associated neural mechanisms, contribute to the development of episodic prospection between childhood and adolescence. Elucidating the mechanisms contributing to this development is critical for understanding its potential influence on learning, goal achievement, and pedagogy between childhood and adolescence.
New insights into the history of domesticated and wild apricots and its contribution to Plum pox virus resistance
Authors: Decroocq Stéphane , Cornille Amandine , Tricon David , Babayeva Sevda , Chague Aurélie , Eyquard Jean‐Philippe , Karychev Raul , Dolgikh Svetlana , Kostritsyna Tatiana , Liu Shuo , Liu Weisheng , Geng Wenjuan , Liao Kang , Asma Bayram M. , Akparov Zeynal , Giraud Tatiana , Decroocq Véronique
Published: August 2016

Studying domesticated species and their wild relatives allows understanding of the mechanisms of population divergence and adaptation, and identifying valuable genetic resources. Apricot is an important fruit in the Northern hemisphere, where it is threatened by the Plum pox virus (PPV), causing the sharka disease. The histories of apricot domestication and of its resistance to sharka are however still poorly understood. We used 18 microsatellite markers to genotype a collection of 230 wild trees from Central Asia and 142 cultivated apricots as representatives of the worldwide cultivated apricot germplasm; we also performed experimental PPV inoculation tests. The genetic markers revealed highest levels of diversity in Central Asian and Chinese wild and cultivated apricots, confirming an origin in this region. In cultivated apricots, Chinese accessions were differentiated from more Western accessions, while cultivated apricots were differentiated from wild apricots. An approximate Bayesian approach indicated that apricots likely underwent two independent domestication events, with bottlenecks, from the same wild population. Central Asian native apricots exhibited genetic subdivision and high frequency of resistance to sharka. Altogether, our results contribute to the understanding of the domestication history of cultivated apricot and point to valuable genetic diversity in the extant genetic resources of wild apricots.
Differential influences of local subpopulations on regional diversity and differentiation for greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus)
Authors: Row Jeffrey R. , Oyler‐McCance Sara J. , Fedy Bradley C.
Published: August 2016

The distribution of spatial genetic variation across a region can shape evolutionary dynamics and impact population persistence. Local population dynamics and among‐population dispersal rates are strong drivers of this spatial genetic variation, yet for many species we lack a clear understanding of how these population processes interact in space to shape within‐species genetic variation. Here, we used extensive genetic and demographic data from 10 subpopulations of greater sage‐grouse to parameterize a simulated approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) model and (i) test for regional differences in population density and dispersal rates for greater sage‐grouse subpopulations in Wyoming, and (ii) quantify how these differences impact subpopulation regional influence on genetic variation. We found a close match between observed and simulated data under our parameterized model and strong variation in density and dispersal rates across Wyoming. Sensitivity analyses suggested that changes in dispersal (via landscape resistance) had a greater influence on regional differentiation, whereas changes in density had a greater influence on mean diversity across all subpopulations. Local subpopulations, however, varied in their regional influence on genetic variation. Decreases in the size and dispersal rates of central populations with low overall and net immigration (i.e. population sources) had the greatest negative impact on genetic variation. Overall, our results provide insight into the interactions among demography, dispersal and genetic variation and highlight the potential of ABC to disentangle the complexity of regional population dynamics and project the genetic impact of changing conditions.
Inbreeding effects on gene‐specific DNA methylation among tissues of Chinook salmon
Authors: Venney Clare J. , Johansson Mattias L. , Heath Daniel D.
Published: August 2016

Inbreeding depression is the loss of fitness resulting from the mating of genetically related individuals. Traditionally, the study of inbreeding depression focused on genetic effects, although recent research has identified DNA methylation as also having a role in inbreeding effects. Since inbreeding depression and DNA methylation change with age and environmental stress, DNA methylation is a likely candidate for the regulation of genes associated with inbreeding depression. Here, we use a targeted, multigene approach to assess methylation at 22 growth‐, metabolic‐, immune‐ and stress‐related genes. We developed PCR‐based DNA methylation assays to test the effects of intense inbreeding on intragenic gene‐specific methylation in inbred and outbred Chinook salmon. Inbred fish had altered methylation at three genes, CK‐1, GTIIBS and hsp70, suggesting that methylation changes associated with inbreeding depression are targeted to specific genes and are not whole‐genome effects. While we did not find a significant inbreeding by age interaction, we found that DNA methylation generally increases with age, although methylation decreased with age in five genes, CK‐1, IFN‐ɣ, HNRNPL, hsc71 and FSHb, potentially due to environmental context and sexual maturation. As expected, we found methylation patterns differed among tissue types, highlighting the need for careful selection of target tissue for methylation studies. This study provides insight into the role of epigenetic effects on ageing, environmental response and tissue function in Chinook salmon and shows that methylation is a targeted and regulated cellular process. We provide the first evidence of epigenetically based inbreeding depression in vertebrates.
Multitaxon activity profiling reveals differential microbial response to reduced seawater pH and oil pollution
Authors: Coelho Francisco J. R. C. , Cleary Daniel F. R. , Costa Rodrigo , Ferreira Marina , Polónia Ana R. M. , Silva Artur M. S. , Simões Mário M. Q. , Oliveira Vanessa , Gomes Newton C. M.
Published: August 2016

There is growing concern that predicted changes to global ocean chemistry will interact with anthropogenic pollution to significantly alter marine microbial composition and function. However, knowledge of the compounding effects of climate change stressors and anthropogenic pollution is limited. Here, we used 16S and 18S rRNA (cDNA)‐based activity profiling to investigate the differential responses of selected microbial taxa to ocean acidification and oil hydrocarbon contamination under controlled laboratory conditions. Our results revealed that a lower relative abundance of sulphate‐reducing bacteria (Desulfosarcina/Desulfococcus clade) due to an adverse effect of seawater acidification and oil hydrocarbon contamination (reduced pH–oil treatment) may be coupled to changes in sediment archaeal communities. In particular, we observed a pronounced compositional shift and marked reduction in the prevalence of otherwise abundant operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to the archaeal Marine Benthic Group B and Marine Hydrothermal Vent Group (MHVG) in the reduced pH–oil treatment. Conversely, the abundance of several putative hydrocarbonoclastic fungal OTUs was higher in the reduced pH–oil treatment. Sediment hydrocarbon profiling, furthermore, revealed higher concentrations of several alkanes in the reduced pH–oil treatment, corroborating the functional implications of the structural changes to microbial community composition. Collectively, our results advance the understanding of the response of a complex microbial community to the interaction between reduced pH and anthropogenic pollution. In future acidified marine environments, oil hydrocarbon contamination may alter the typical mixotrophic and k‐/r‐strategist composition of surface sediment microbiomes towards a more heterotrophic state with lower doubling rates, thereby impairing the ability of the ecosystem to recover from acute oil contamination events.
Sex‐specific allelic transmission bias suggests sexual conflict at MC1R
Authors: Ducret Valérie , Gaigher Arnaud , Simon Céline , Goudet Jérôme , Roulin Alexandre
Published: August 2016

Sexual conflict arises when selection in one sex causes the displacement of the other sex from its phenotypic optimum, leading to an inevitable tension within the genome – called intralocus sexual conflict. Although the autosomal melanocortin‐1‐receptor gene (MC1R) can generate colour variation in sexually dichromatic species, most previous studies have not considered the possibility that MC1R may be subject to sexual conflict. In the barn owl (Tyto alba), the allele MC1RWHITE is associated with whitish plumage coloration, typical of males, and the allele MC1RRUFOUS is associated with dark rufous coloration, typical of females, although each sex can express any phenotype. Because each colour variant is adapted to specific environmental conditions, the allele MC1RWHITE may be more strongly selected in males and the allele MC1RRUFOUS in females. We therefore investigated whether MC1R genotypes are in excess or deficit in male and female fledglings compared with the expected Hardy–Weinberg proportions. Our results show an overall deficit of 7.5% in the proportion of heterozygotes in males and of 12.9% in females. In males, interannual variation in assortative pairing with respect to MC1R explained the year‐specific deviations from Hardy–Weinberg proportions, whereas in females, the deficit was better explained by the interannual variation in the probability of inheriting the MC1RWHITE or MC1RRUFOUS allele. Additionally, we observed that sons inherit the MC1RRUFOUS allele from their fathers on average slightly less often than expected under the first Mendelian law. Transmission ratio distortion may be adaptive in this sexually dichromatic species if males and females are, respectively, selected to display white and rufous plumages.
Transcriptome modulation during host shift is driven by secondary metabolites in desert Drosophila
Authors: De Panis Diego N. , Padró Julián , Furió‐Tarí Pedro , Tarazona Sonia , Milla Carmona Pablo S. , Soto Ignacio M. , Dopazo Hernán , Conesa Ana , Hasson Esteban
Published: August 2016

High‐throughput transcriptome studies are breaking new ground to investigate the responses that organisms deploy in alternative environments. Nevertheless, much remains to be understood about the genetic basis of host plant adaptation. Here, we investigate genome‐wide expression in the fly Drosophila buzzatii raised in different conditions. This species uses decaying tissues of cactus of the genus Opuntia as primary rearing substrate and secondarily, the necrotic tissues of the columnar cactus Trichocereus terscheckii. The latter constitutes a harmful host, rich in mescaline and other related phenylethylamine alkaloids. We assessed the transcriptomic responses of larvae reared in Opuntia sulphurea and T. terscheckii, with and without the addition of alkaloids extracted from the latter. Whole‐genome expression profiles were massively modulated by the rearing environment, mainly by the presence of T. terscheckii alkaloids. Differentially expressed genes were mainly related to detoxification, oxidation–reduction and stress response; however, we also found genes involved in development and neurobiological processes. In conclusion, our study contributes new data onto the role of transcriptional plasticity in response to alternative rearing environments.
Recurrent selection explains parallel evolution of genomic regions of high relative but low absolute differentiation in a ring species
Authors: Irwin Darren E. , Alcaide Miguel , Delmore Kira E. , Irwin Jessica H. , Owens Gregory L.
Published: August 2016

Recent technological developments allow investigation of the repeatability of evolution at the genomic level. Such investigation is particularly powerful when applied to a ring species, in which spatial variation represents changes during the evolution of two species from one. We examined genomic variation among three subspecies of the greenish warbler ring species, using genotypes at 13 013 950 nucleotide sites along a new greenish warbler consensus genome assembly. Genomic regions of low within‐group variation are remarkably consistent between the three populations. These regions show high relative differentiation but low absolute differentiation between populations. Comparisons with outgroup species show the locations of these peaks of relative differentiation are not well explained by phylogenetically conserved variation in recombination rates or selection. These patterns are consistent with a model in which selection in an ancestral form has reduced variation at some parts of the genome, and those same regions experience recurrent selection that subsequently reduces variation within each subspecies. The degree of heterogeneity in nucleotide diversity is greater than explained by models of background selection, but is consistent with selective sweeps. Given the evidence that greenish warblers have had both population differentiation for a long period of time and periods of gene flow between those populations, we propose that some genomic regions underwent selective sweeps over a broad geographic area followed by within‐population selection‐induced reductions in variation. An important implication of this ‘sweep‐before‐differentiation’ model is that genomic regions of high relative differentiation may have moved among populations more recently than other genomic regions.