bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Young adults' experiences of their parents caring for a relative with dementia
Authors: Hou Pik Yi , Lai Claudia Kam Yuk , Chung Ching Sum , Sham Amy Kin Kwan , Yeung Ching Lai
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of the present study was to explore the experiences and perceptions young adults had of family members who are caring for a relative with dementia.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative study with semi‐structured interviews was carried out and data were collected from 24 young adults recruited through purposive sampling. The participants had to have a close relative who was caring for an elderly family member with dementia. A content analysis approach was used for the verbatim transcription.

Results

The findings showed that caring for a relative with dementia was perceived as a time‐consuming, exhausting and long‐term task. The participants experienced stress and strain, although they were not the primary caregivers. Despite their negative perceptions of the task, they were willing to take on the responsibility of becoming a primary caregiver in the future. However, they intended to seek assistance in meeting their caregiving roles and responsibilities. Seeing how their close relative cared for a dependent older adult led them to reflect on what they would become in the future. Interestingly, although the participants expected their future offspring to take care of them when they became old, they did not want to be a burden to their children.

Conclusion

Young adults are the caregivers of tomorrow. Knowing their perspective on caregiving is important if health professionals are to help them evolve into a caregiving role. It has implications for realizing the goal of aging in place. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 873–879.
Impact of board‐certificated physiatrists on rehabilitation outcomes in elderly patients after hip fracture: An observational study using the Japan Rehabilitation Database
Authors: Momosaki Ryo , Kakuda Wataru , Yamada Naoki , Abo Masahiro
Published: August 2015

Aim

To clarify the impact on rehabilitation outcomes of board‐certificated physiatrists (BCP) as the physicians with primary responsibility for elderly patients in convalescent rehabilitation wards after hip fracture.

Methods

The present retrospective observational study used 2005–2013 data from the Japan Rehabilitation Database. We identified in‐hospital patients with hip fracture admitted to rehabilitation wards. After applying exclusion criteria, 824 patients were eligible. The primary outcome was functional independence measure instrument efficiency.

Results

BCP were responsible for the care of 46% of patients with hip fracture. Patients who were managed by a BCP had significantly higher mean functional independence measure efficiency than patients who were not, both before and after adjustment by inverse propensity‐score weighting (0.37 vs 0.26; P = 0.04 and 0.39 vs 0.26; P < 0.01, respectively). Additionally, the mean length of stay was significantly shorter in patients who were managed by BCP than in those who were not, both before and after inverse propensity‐score weighting (65 vs 71 days, P = 0.04 and 64 vs 69 days, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the participation of BCP is associated with good rehabilitation outcomes in patients with hip fracture at convalescent rehabilitation wards. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 963–968.
Frequency, nature and outcomes of hospital admissions in centenarians in an area of North‐East England
Authors: Dotchin Catherine L , Gray William K , Gaskin Elizabeth , Hartley Samantha , Walker Richard W
Published: August 2015

Aims

There are few data on the use of hospital services by centenarians living in the UK. In the present study, we recorded the frequency, nature and outcomes of hospital admissions in centenarians in an area of North‐East England.

Methods

Data regarding hospital attendance in centenarians in Northumberland and North Tyneside, covered by one National Health Service Trust, were collected. For the years 2010–2013, demographics, frequency of admission and length of hospital stay data were collected. Medical notes for those admitted in 2011 were reviewed, and data extracted relating to diagnosis, medications and past medical history.

Results

Across the 4 years of the study, there were 349 hospital attendances of centenarians. A total of 264 of these attendances resulted in admission with an overnight stay. In 2011, there were 107 attendances, 75 of which (in 54 unique patents) resulted in admission and an overnight stay. The unique patients admitted represented 41.5% of the centenarians living in the catchment area. The most common primary reason for admission in centenarians was respiratory tract infection, though falls were a primary or secondary reason for admission in 41.3% of centenarians. There were 11 in‐hospital deaths in 2011, and a further seven deaths within 30 days of discharge. The median number of medications taken on admission and discharge was six.

Conclusions

Almost half of the centenarians living in the catchment area were admitted to hospital during 2011. Over 25% of admissions either died in hospital or within 30 days of discharge. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 969–975.
Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment is a useful predictive tool for postoperative delirium after gastrointestinal surgery in old‐old adults
Authors: Maekawa Yoshihiro , Sugimoto Ken , Yamasaki Makoto , Takeya Yasushi , Yamamoto Koichi , Ohishi Mitsuru , Ogihara Toshio , Shintani Ayumi , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki , Rakugi Hiromi
Published: August 2015

Aim

To determine whether carrying out the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment before operations would be useful for predicting complications, particularly postoperative delirium (POD), in old‐old patients.

Methods

A total of 517 patients aged 75 years and older, who underwent radical surgery for gastrointestinal cancer at Osaka University Hospital, were recruited for this observational study. The Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment components and assessment of performance status were carried out before surgery, and a record of postoperative complications including POD was made prospectively until discharge from hospital. The following morphological and clinical measurements were also obtained from the medical records: age, sex, disease type, previous history, comorbid lifestyle‐related diseases, POD, postoperative complications, operative method, duration of operation, hemorrhage volume, blood transfusion volume, method of anesthesia, body mass index and blood tests.

Results

POD appeared in 24.0% of the 517 patients who underwent surgery. Barthel Index, Mini‐Mental State Examination, instrumental activities of daily living and Geriatric Depression Scale results were associated with the incidence of POD, and the Barthel Index, Mini‐Mental State Examination and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living results were extracted as independent factors associated with the development of POD after adjusting for traditional risk factors for postoperative complications and performance status.

Conclusions

The Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment before gastrointestinal surgery can be a useful tool for predicting the development of POD in old‐old patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 1036–1042.
Field Investigation of a New Recharge Approach for ASR Projects in Near‐Surface Aquifers
Authors: Liu Gaisheng , Knobbe Steven , Reboulet Edward C. , Whittemore Donald O. , Händel Falk , Butler James J.
Published: August 2015

Aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) is the artificial recharge and temporary storage of water in an aquifer when water is abundant, and recovery of all or a portion of that water when it is needed. One key limiting factor that still hinders the effectiveness of ASR is the high costs of constructing, maintaining, and operating the artificial recharge systems. Here we investigate a new recharge method for ASR in near‐surface unconsolidated aquifers that uses small‐diameter, low‐cost wells installed with direct‐push (DP) technology. The effectiveness of a DP well for ASR recharge is compared with that of a surface infiltration basin at a field site in north‐central Kansas. The performance of the surface basin was poor at the site due to the presence of a shallow continuous clay layer, identified with DP profiling methods, that constrained the downward movement of infiltrated water and significantly reduced the basin recharge capacity. The DP well penetrated through this clay layer and was able to recharge water by gravity alone at a much higher rate. Most importantly, the costs of the DP well, including both the construction and land costs, were only a small fraction of those for the infiltration basin. This low‐cost approach could significantly expand the applicability of ASR as a water resources management tool to entities with limited fiscal resources, such as many small municipalities and rural communities. The results of this investigation demonstrate the great potential of DP wells as a new recharge option for ASR projects in near‐surface unconsolidated aquifers.
Life-Threatening Coronary Disease is Prevalent in Patients with Stenosing Carotid Artery Disease
Authors: Nuotio Krista , Soinne Lauri , Hänninen Helena , Saksi Jani , Tuimala Jarno , Jula Antti , Kovanen Petri T. , Kaste Markku , Ijäs Petra , Lindsberg Perttu J.
Published: August 2015

Background

Atherosclerosis affects several vascular trees systemically and though surgical plaque removal diminishes the risk of stroke in patients with carotid stenosis, they still face a risk of other atherothrombotic complications like myocardial infarction and premature death.

Aims and/or hypothesis

This study was designed to reveal the long-term risk of death and atherothrombotic events following carotid endarterectomy.

Methods

Eighty-nine previously (1997–2000) endarterectomized carotid patients (56–92 years) were followed up to 15·2 years. Causes of death, cardiovascular events (stroke, transient ischemic attack, acute myocardial infarction), comorbidities, and medications were recorded and analyzed by Cox regression analysis. Four population controls and four controls with coronary disease ( n = 712) were selected for each case from a population cohort for age- and gender-matched analysis.

Results

At the end of follow-up, 41 (44·6%) patients had died and 48 were alive. Ten patients (24,4%) died due to acute myocardial infarction and one (2,4%) due to stroke. Nineteen (21%) patients had an acute myocardial infarction, 12 (13%) had a stroke, 13 (15%) had a transient ischemic attack, and 5 (6%) had other atherothrombotic events. The risk of death was 5·7-fold in diabetics ( P < 0·001) and 3·9-fold in smokers ( P < 0·001). Patients who did not use statins had 5·0-fold, and irregular users 3·3-fold risk of death compared with active users ( P = 0·005 and P = 0·001, respectively). The major factors associated with acute myocardial infarction were diabetes (6·0-fold risk, P = 0·004), bilateral carotid disease (3·5-fold risk, P = 0·014), and lack of statin use (4·4-fold risk, P = 0·038). Compared with population controls, carotid patients had a 4·4-fold risk of acute myocardial infarction ( P = 0·002).

Conclusions

Endarterectomized carotid patients have a high risk of acute myocardial infarction and death, and need an intensified cardiovascular disease-risk-lowering treatment. Although asymptomatic, the evaluation of prognostically significant myocardial ischemia should be considered in these high-risk patients. Eventually, a clinical trial is needed to address whether carotid patients would benefit from early intervention.
Six‐year follow up of silodosin monotherapy for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia: What are the factors for continuation or withdrawal?
Authors: Yamanishi Tomonori , Kaga Kanya , Fuse Miki , Shibata Chiharu , Kamai Takao , Uchiyama Tomoyuki
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To investigate the factors for continuation or withdrawal as an extension of a prospective study of silodosin monotherapy for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia for more than 6 years.

Methods

A total of 104 patients (age 71.5 ± 8.2 years) were enrolled in the present study. The mean prostate volume was 44.1 ± 23.9 mL. International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life index, maximum flow rate, and postvoid residual urine volume were determined at baseline, and at 1, 3, 6 and 12–72 months after treatment.

Results

Adverse events were noted in 14 patients (13.5%), and the most frequent adverse event was ejaculatory dysfunction (5.8%). Withdrawal was noted in 78 patients, and 26 patients (25.0%) were still taking silodosin at 72 months (continuing group). The reasons for withdrawals were: unknown in 27 patients (26.0%), adverse events in nine patients (8.7%), unsatisfactory effects in 30 patients (28.8%) and satisfied with the current condition for six patients (5.8%). In 30 patients who withdrew because of unsatisfactory effects, surgery was carried out in 21 patients (surgery group). The baseline total International Prostate Symptom Score did not differ between the continuing group and the surgery group. However, patients with the continuing group had significantly smaller baseline prostate volume, and lower baseline quality of life index and prostate‐specific antigen, than in the surgery group. The mean total International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life index and maximum flow rate improved significantly at 1 month, and remained stable up to 72 months.

Conclusions

The withdrawal rate was higher in patients with a larger prostate. The effects of silodosin for lower urinary tract symptoms was immediate and stable up to 72 months.
Encrustations of the urinary catheter and prevention strategies: an observational study
Authors: Marcone Marchitti Claudia , Boarin Mattia , Villa Giulia
Published: August 2015

ABSTRACT

Patients with an indwelling urinary catheter are at risk of developing urinary tract infection: for each day of the catheter remaining in situ, there is an increasing risk from 3% to 7% for infection to appear. One of the main complications of catheterization is the onset of encrustations, frequently resulting in obstruction of the catheter. To investigate the prevalence of encrusted indwelling urinary catheters in outpatients referred to the Department of Urology. An observational study was carried out on outpatients referred to the Department of Urology in need of removal or replacement of indwelling urinary catheters. A table was completed to collect the data of each patient in order to investigate the presence of any possible encrustation. The collected data concerned 85 patients, 81 male (95·3%) and 4 female (4·7%). Patients had different pathologies and different types of catheter, with different sizes and different materials. The number of indwelling urinary catheters that during removal/replacement were visibly encrusted in the eyehole area totaled eight (9·4%). The analysis of the collected data suggests that the permanence of the catheter could potentially be one of the most relevant causes of encrustation; five out of eight patients with encrusted urethral catheter had it in place for 1 month, three of them for 2 weeks. There are many prevention strategies, among which promotion of nucleation pH (pHn) supplementation in the daily diet with liquids containing citrate is the most simple and suitable for all patients being inexpensive and effective.
Outcomes achieved by and police and clinician perspectives on a joint police officer and mental health clinician mobile response unit
Authors: Lee Stuart J. , Thomas Phillipa , Doulis Chantelle , Bowles Doug , Henderson Kathryn , Keppich‐Arnold Sandra , Perez Eva , Stafrace Simon
Published: August 2015

Despite their limited mental health expertise, police are often first to respond to people experiencing a mental health crisis. Often the person in crisis is then transported to hospital for care, instead of receiving more immediate assessment and treatment in the community. The current study conducted an evaluation of an Australian joint police‐mental health mobile response unit that aimed to improve the delivery of a community‐based crisis response. Activity data were audited to demonstrate utilization and outcomes for referred people. Police officers and mental health clinicians in the catchment area were also surveyed to measure the unit's perceived impact. During the 6‐month pilot, 296 contacts involving the unit occurred. Threatened suicide (33%), welfare concerns (22%) and psychotic episodes (18%) were the most common reasons for referral. The responses comprised direct admission to a psychiatric unit for 11% of contacts, transportation to a hospital emergency department for 32% of contacts, and community management for the remainder (57%). Police officers were highly supportive of the model and reported having observed benefits of the unit for consumers and police and improved collaboration between services. The joint police‐mental health clinician unit enabled rapid delivery of a multi‐skilled crisis response in the community.
Biogeography versus resource management: how do they compare when prioritizing the management of coral reef fish in the south‐western Indian Ocean?
Authors: McClanahan T. R.
Published: August 2015

Aim

Numbers of coral reef species are broadly influenced by historical, physical and geographical factors that are often the basis for prioritizing conservation and management investments. In contrast, the number of species at a site is often influenced by site‐specific factors, including abundance, benthic cover and other habitat features (depth and exposure), fishing pressure and resource management. Conservation policies and programmes often prioritize geographies or specific management systems within specific geographies. I evaluate the variance in number of species at the site scale and estimate the contributions of fishing pressure, local habitat factors and regional geography to local diversity.

Location

Coral reefs of the south‐western Indian Ocean (SWIO).

Methods

Site‐level species richness data from an extensive field sample of common coral reef fish at 266 sites in seven SWIO countries were analysed to create four species richness metrics to evaluate the effects of local site, geography and management.

Results

The local number of species was strongly predicted by an asymptotic relationship with fish biomass, followed by habitat variables, and lastly by the geographical positions of latitude and longitude. A species richness centre or ‘hotspot’ was found between Madagascar and the African coastline, but the variance attributable to geography when biomass and habitat effects were removed was small. Evaluation of the number of species in five existing fisheries management categories indicated that differences were chiefly influenced by biomass rather than habitat factors.

Main conclusions

Although the centre of species richness may indicate a climate refugium that should be considered in conservation prioritization, this diversity‐centre effect can weaken if habitat and biomass features are reduced by climate disturbances and fishing. Consequently, the highest priority for conserving local numbers of reef fish species is to maintain biomass above the c. 600 kg ha−1 threshold found in this study.
The failing human heart is characterized by decreased numbers of telocytes as result of apoptosis and altered extracellular matrix composition
Authors: Richter Manfred , Kostin Sawa
Published: August 2015

Telocytes (TCs) are a novel type of interstitial cells only recently described. This study aimed at characterizing and quantifying TCs and telopodes (Tps) in normal and diseased hearts. We have been suggested that TCs are influenced by the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. We used transmission electron microscopy and c‐kit immunolabelling to identify and quantify TCs in explanted human hearts with heart failure (HF) because of dilated, ischemic or inflammatory cardiomyopathy. LV myectomy samples from patients with aortic stenosis with preserved ejection fraction and samples from donor hearts which could not be used for transplantation served as controls. Quantitative immunoconfocal analysis revealed that 1 mm2 of the normal myocardium contains 14.9 ± 3.4 TCs and 41.6 ± 5.9 Tps. As compared with the control group, the number of TCs and Tps in HF decreased more than twofold. There were no differences between HF and control in the number of Ki67‐positive TCs. In contrast, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling‐positive TCs increased threefold in diseased hearts as compared to control. Significant inverse correlations were found between the amount of mature fibrillar collagen type I and the number of TCs (r = −0.84; P < 0.01) and Tps (r = −0.85; P < 0.01). The levels of degraded collagens showed a significant positive relationship with the TCs numbers. It is concluded that in HF the number of TCs are decreased because of higher rates of TCs apoptosis. Moreover, our results indicate that a close relationship exists between TCs and the ECM protein composition such that the number of TCs and Tps correlates negatively with the amount of mature fibrillar collagens and correlates positively with degraded collagens.
Electron microscopy of human fascia lata: focus on telocytes
Authors: Dawidowicz Joanna , Szotek Sylwia , Matysiak Natalia , Mielańczyk Łukasz , Maksymowicz Krzysztof
Published: August 2015

From the histological point of view, fascia lata is a dense connective tissue. Although extracellular matrix is certainly the most predominant fascia's feature, there are also several cell populations encountered within this structure. The aim of this study was to describe the existence and characteristics of fascia lata cell populations viewed through a transmission electron microscope. Special emphasis was placed on telocytes as a particular interstitial cell type, recently discovered in a wide variety of tissues and organs such as the heart, skeletal muscles, skin, gastrointestinal tract, uterus and urinary system. The conducted study confirmed the existence of a telocyte population in fascia lata samples. Those cells fulfil main morphological criteria of telocytes, namely, the presence of very long, thin cell processes (telopodes) extending from a relatively small cell body. Aside from telocytes, we have found fibroblasts, mast cells and cells with features of myofibroblastic differentiation. This is the first time it has been shown that telocytes exist in human fascia. Currently, the exact role of those cells within the fascia is unknown and definitely deserves further attention. One can speculate that fascia lata telocytes likewise telocytes in other organs may be involved in regeneration, homeostasis and intracellular signalling.
Circulating CD147 predicts mortality in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lee Aimei , Rode Anthony , Nicoll Amanda , Maczurek Annette E , Lim Lucy , Lim Seok , Angus Peter , Kronborg Ian , Arachchi Niranjan , Gorelik Alexandra , Liew Danny , Warner Fiona J , McCaughan Geoffrey W , McLennan Susan V , Shackel Nicholas A
Published: August 2015

Background and Aim:

The glycoprotein CD147 has a role in tumor progression, is readily detectable in the circulation, and is abundantly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Advanced HCC patients are a heterogeneous group with some individuals having dismal survival. The aim of this study was to examine circulating soluble CD147 levels as a prognostic marker in HCC patients.

Methods:

CD147 was measured in 277 patients (110 HCC, 115 chronic liver disease, and 52 non‐liver disease). Clinical data included etiology, tumor progression, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage, and treatment response. Patients with HCC were stratified into two groups based upon the 75th percentile of CD147 levels (24 ng/mL).

Results:

CD147 in HCC correlated inversely with poor survival (P = 0.031). Increased CD147 predicted poor survival in BCLC stages C and D (P = 0.045), and CD147 levels >24 ng/mL predicted a significantly diminished 90‐day and 180‐day survival time (hazard ratio [HR] = 6.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.1–63.2; P = 0.0045 and HR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.2–12.6; P = 0.028, respectively). In BCLC stage C, CD147 predicted prognosis; levels >24 ng/mL were associated with a median survival of 1.5 months compared with 6.5 months with CD147 levels ≤24 ng/mL (P = 0.03). CD147 also identified patients with a poor prognosis independent from treatment frequency, modality, and tumor size.

Conclusions:

Circulating CD147 is an independent marker of survival in advanced HCC. CD147 requires further evaluation as a potential new prognostic measure in HCC to identify patients with advanced disease who have a poor prognosis.
Proposal of a new diagnostic algorithm for hepatocellular carcinoma based on the Japanese guidelines but adapted to the Western world for patients under surveillance for chronic liver disease
Authors: Renzulli Matteo , Golfieri Rita ,   Bologna Liver Oncology Group (BLOG)
Published: August 2015

To date, despite many scientific evidences, the guidelines of the principal hepatological societies, such as the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, the European Association for the Study of the Liver, and the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver, do not recognize the diagnostic superiority of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over computed tomography in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and, for the most part, do not contemplate the use of hepatospecific contrast media, such as gadolinium‐ethoxybenzyl‐diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (EOB). The aim of this paper was to analyze the recent results of EOB‐MRI in the study of chronic liver disease and the differences between the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the Japan Society of Hepatology guidelines, of which the latter represents the most consolidated experience on EOB‐MRI use for HCC diagnosis. Finally, a new diagnostic algorithm for HCC in patients under surveillance for chronic liver disease was formulated, which contemplates the use of EOB. This new diagnostic algorithm is based on the Japan Society of Hepatology algorithm but goes beyond it by adapting it to the Western world, taking into account both the difference between the two and the latest results concerning the diagnosis of HCC. This new diagnostic algorithm for HCC is proposed in order to provide useful diagnostic tools to all those Western countries where the use of EOB (more expensive than extracellular contrast media) is widespread but in which common strategies to manage the nodules that this new contrast agent allows identifying have not been available to date.
Meeting American Geriatrics Society Competencies: Are Residents Meeting Expectations for Quality Care of Older Adults?
Authors: Bynum Debra L. , Wilson Lindsay A. , Ong Thuan , Callahan Kathryn E. , Dalton Thomas , Ohuabunwa Ugochi
Published: August 2015

In order to determine how often internal medicine and family medicine residents performed specific actions related to the geriatric competencies established by the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) when caring for older hospitalized adults, a cross‐sectional anonymous survey of residents at the University of North Carolina, University of Washington, Wake Forest University, Duke University, and Emory University was undertaken. Data on frequency of self‐reported behaviors were analyzed, with comparisons made for different levels of training, institution, and program. A total of 375 residents responded for an overall response rate of 48%. Residents reported that they often do not demonstrate all of the AGS recommended core competencies when caring for older adults in the hospital setting. Residents report more frequently performing activities that are routinely integrated into hospital systems such as reviewing medication lists, working with an interdisciplinary team, evaluating for inappropriate bladder catheters, and evaluating for pressure ulcers. There were no consistent differences between institutions and only minor differences noted between Family Medicine and Internal Medicine residents. Operationalizing core competencies by integrating them into hospital systems' quality process indicators may prompt more consistent high‐quality care and ensure systems support residents' competence.
Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Elder Abuse and Neglect in the Community: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Burnes David , Pillemer Karl , Caccamise Paul L. , Mason Art , Henderson Charles R. , Berman Jacquelin , Cook Ann Marie , Shukoff Denise , Brownell Patricia , Powell Mebane , Salamone Aurora , Lachs Mark S.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To estimate past‐year prevalence and identify risk and protective factors of elder emotional abuse, physical abuse, and neglect.

Design

Cross‐sectional, population‐based study using random‐digit‐dial sampling and direct telephone interviews.

Setting

New York State households.

Participants

Representative (race, ethnicity, sex) sample (N = 4,156) of English‐ or Spanish‐speaking, community‐dwelling, cognitively intact individuals aged 60 and older.

Measurements

The Conflict Tactics Scale was adapted to assess elder emotional and physical abuse. Elder neglect was evaluated according to failure of a responsible caregiver to meet an older adult's needs using the Duke Older Americans Resources and Services (OARS) scale. Caseness thresholds were based on mistreatment behavior frequencies and elder perceptions of problem seriousness.

Results

Past‐year prevalence of elder emotional abuse was 1.9%, of physical abuse was 1.8%, and of neglect was 1.8%, with an aggregate prevalence of 4.6%. Emotional and physical abuse were associated with being separated or divorced, living in a lower‐income household, functional impairment, and younger age. Neglect was associated with poor health, being separated or divorced, living below the poverty line, and younger age. Neglect was less likely in older adults of Hispanic ethnicity.

Conclusion

Elder abuse and neglect are common problems, with divergent risk and protective factor profiles. These findings have direct implications for public screening and education and awareness efforts designed to prevent elder mistreatment.
Social Impacts of International Trade on the Chinese Transport Sector
Authors: Alsamawi Ali , McBain Darian , Murray Joy , Geschke Arne
Published: August 2015

The World Health Organization sees traffic injuries as a global health and development problem predicted to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2030. This study uses input‐output techniques to shed light on the impact of international trade on the Chinese transport sector and its consequences for the lives of Chinese transport workers and the general population. We calculate the direct and indirect transport‐accident footprints associated with products consumed domestically and internationally. Transport‐accident footprints are comprised of fatal and nonfatal accidents from the transport sector. Our study finds that half of the accidents in the transport sector's footprint are embodied within exports to the United States, Japan, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, Germany, and Korea in the electronics, clothes, and minerals sectors. The study also shows that countries with a small population and high income have the highest per capita embodied accidents in the transport footprint of their imports from China. This study demonstrates that when considering the impacts of consumption in global trade, the social impact of production—in this case of transport accidents associated with production—must be considered.
Arabidopsis SMALL ORGAN 4, a homolog of yeast NOP53, regulates cell proliferation rate during organ growth
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Ran , Qin Zhixiang , Zhang Xiao , Hu Yuxin
Published: August 2015

Cell proliferation is a fundamental event essential for plant organogenesis and contributes greatly to the final organ size. Although the control of cell proliferation in plants has been extensively studied, how the plant sets the cell number required for a single organ is largely elusive. Here, we describe the Arabidopsis SMALL ORGAN 4 (SMO4) that functions in the regulation of cell proliferation rate and thus final organ size. The smo4 mutant exhibits a reduced size of organs due to the decreased cell number, and further analysis reveals that such phenotype results from a retardation of the cell cycle progression during organ development. SMO4 encodes a homolog of NUCLEOLAR PROTEIN 53 (NOP53) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and is expressed primarily in tissues undergoing cell proliferation. Nevertheless, further complementation tests show that SMO4 could not rescue the lethal defect of NOP53 mutant of S. cerevisiae. These results define SMO4 as an important regulator of cell proliferation during organ growth and suggest that SMO4 might have been evolutionarily divergent from NOP53.
Anther and pollen development: A conserved developmental pathway
Authors: Gómez José Fernández , Talle Behzad , Wilson Zoe A
Published: August 2015

Pollen development is a critical step in plant development that is needed for successful breeding and seed formation. Manipulation of male fertility has proved a useful trait for hybrid breeding and increased crop yield. However, although there is a good understanding developing of the molecular mechanisms of anther and pollen anther development in model species, such as Arabidopsis and rice, little is known about the equivalent processes in important crops. Nevertheless the onset of increased genomic information and genetic tools is facilitating translation of information from the models to crops, such as barley and wheat; this will enable increased understanding and manipulation of these pathways for agricultural improvement.
Zygote intrafallopian tube transfer versus intrauterine cleavage or blastocyst stage transfer after intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles in patients with repeated implantation failure: A prospective follow‐up study
Authors: Shahrokh Tehraninejad Ensieh , Azimi Nekoo Elham , Ghaffari Firouzeh , Hafezi Maryam , Karimian Leila , Arabipoor Arezoo
Published: August 2015

Aim

This study aimed to compare the outcomes between zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) with intrauterine day‐3 (cleavage stage) embryo transfer and intrauterine day‐5 (blastocyst stage) embryo transfer in patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Material and Methods

This prospective study was performed at Royan Institute, Tehran, Iran, between January 2012 and January 2014. Two hundred fifty women with more than three unexplained implantation failures were divided non‐randomly into three groups according to embryonic age and methods used as follows: (i) intrauterine cleavage‐stage embryo transfer (n = 100); (ii) intrauterine blastocyst‐stage embryo transfer (n = 50); and (iii) ZIFT (n = 100). Implantation, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage and live birth rates were our main outcomes.

Results

Patients' characteristics and ovarian response were comparable among the three groups. Implantation rate (56.1% vs 27.9%) was significantly higher in the blastocyst group as compared to the ZIFT group; however, clinical pregnancy rate (38% vs 23%) was not statistically significantly different between the two groups, but due to the significantly higher miscarriage rate (34.7% vs 5.3%) in the ZIFT group, the live birth rate was significantly higher in the blastocyst group (P = 0.04). No significant differences were found between the cleavage‐stage and blastocyst‐stage groups in terms of implantation, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage and live birth rates.

Conclusion

We do not recommend the use of the ZIFT procedure for patients with repeated implantation failures. It seems that replication of cleavage‐ or blastocyst‐stage embryo transfer is more efficient and affordable.
Successful radiotherapy for repeated recurrent uterine clear cell adenocarcinoma
Authors: Iwashita Ayumi , Takei Yuji , Fujiwara Hiroyuki , Sato Naoto , Saito Koyomi , Suzuki Mitsuaki , Nakazawa Masanori
Published: August 2015

Uterine clear cell adenocarcinoma (UCCA) is rare and resistant to treatment. We report a UCCA patient who responded to radiotherapy on each relapse. The first relapse was detected in the vaginal wall after the first course of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. Radiotherapy was conducted. Recurrent tumors were detected in the left lung after 5 months and in the right lung after 8 months. Partial resection of the lungs was performed. After 5 months, relapse was detected in the left pulmonary apex. Stereotactic radiotherapy was conducted. After 7 months, relapse was detected in the left pulmonary apex outside the irradiation field, and stereotactic radiotherapy was performed. During the subsequent 36‐month follow‐up, there has been no relapse. Although UCCA is resistant to treatment, radiotherapy is effective in some cases, as demonstrated in this patient. Even when relapse is repeated, radiotherapy may be considered as a treatment option if the recurrent focus is localized.
Acquisition of the Korean Imperfective Aspect Markers –ko iss– and –a iss– by Japanese Learners: A Multiple‐Factor Account
Authors: Ryu Ju‐Yeon , Horie Kaoru , Shirai Yasuhiro
Published: August 2015

Although cross‐linguistic research on second language tense‐aspect acquisition has uncovered universal tendencies concerning the association between verbal semantics and tense‐aspect markers, it is still unclear what mechanisms underlie this link. This study investigates the acquisition of two imperfective aspect markers (–ko iss– and –a iss–) in Korean by Japanese learners to determine how cognitive universals, first language (L1) transfer, and input frequency interact. The current findings are compared with the results of Lee and Kim (2007), who studied the acquisition of the same aspect markers by L1 English learners. Both groups of learners acquired the progressive –ko iss– earlier than the resultative –a iss–/–ko iss–, while L1 Japanese learners acquired the resultative use of –ko iss– earlier than L1 English learners. Japanese learners’ early acquisition of the resultative –ko iss– is likely due to L1 transfer, because Japanese has a similar imperfective marker (–te i–). We argue that cognitive universals (one‐to‐one principle), L1 transfer, and input frequency all contribute to the acquisition patterns of temporal morphology.
Mock communities highlight the diversity of host‐associated eukaryotes
Authors: Wegener Parfrey Laura
Published: August 2015

Host‐associated microbes are ubiquitous. Every multicellular eukaryote, and even many unicellular eukaryotes (protists), hosts a diverse community of microbes. High‐throughput sequencing (HTS) tools have illuminated the vast diversity of host‐associated microbes and shown that they have widespread influence on host biology, ecology and evolution (McFall‐Ngai et al. ). Bacteria receive most of the attention, but protists are also important components of microbial communities associated with humans (Parfrey et al. ) and other hosts. As HTS tools are increasingly used to study eukaryotes, the presence of numerous and diverse host‐associated eukaryotes is emerging as a common theme across ecosystems. Indeed, HTS studies demonstrate that host‐associated lineages account for between 2 and 12% of overall eukaryotic sequences detected in soil, marine and freshwater data sets, with much higher relative abundances observed in some samples (Ramirez et al. ; Simon et al. ; de Vargas et al. ). Previous studies in soil detected large numbers of predominantly parasitic lineages such as Apicomplexa, but did not delve into their origin [e.g. (Ramirez et al. )]. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Geisen et al. () use mock communities to show that many of the eukaryotic organisms detected by environmental sequencing in soils are potentially associated with animal hosts rather than free‐living. By isolating the host‐associated fraction of soil microbial communities, Geisen and colleagues help explain the surprisingly high diversity of parasitic eukaryotic lineages often detected in soil/terrestrial studies using high‐throughput sequencing (HTS) and reinforce the ubiquity of these host‐associated microbes. It is clear that we can no longer assume that organisms detected in bulk environmental sequencing are free‐living, but instead need to design studies that specifically enumerate the diversity and function of host‐associated eukaryotes. Doing so will allow the field to determine the role host‐associated eukaryotes play in soils and other environments and to evaluate hypotheses on assembly of host‐associated communities, disease ecology and more.
Challenging the inbreeding hypothesis in a eusocial mammal: population genetics of the naked mole‐rat, Heterocephalus glaber
Authors: Ingram Colleen M. , Troendle Nicholas J. , Gill Clare A. , Braude Stanton , Honeycutt Rodney L.
Published: August 2015

The role of genetic relatedness in the evolution of eusociality has been the topic of much debate, especially when contrasting eusocial insects with vertebrates displaying reproductive altruism. The naked mole‐rat, Heterocephalus glaber, was the first described eusocial mammal. Although this discovery was based on an ecological constraints model of eusocial evolution, early genetic studies reported high levels of relatedness in naked mole‐rats, providing a compelling argument that low dispersal rates and consanguineous mating (inbreeding as a mating system) are the driving forces for the evolution of this eusocial species. One caveat to accepting this long‐held view is that the original genetic studies were based on limited sampling from the species’ geographic distribution. A growing body of evidence supports a contrary view, with the original samples not representative of the species—rather reflecting a single founder event, establishing a small population south of the Athi River. Our study is the first to address these competing hypotheses by examining patterns of molecular variation in colonies sampled from north and south of the Athi and Tana rivers, which based on our results, serve to isolate genetically distinct populations of naked mole‐rats. Although colonies south of the Athi River share a single mtDNA haplotype and are fixed at most microsatellite loci, populations north of the Athi River are considerably more variable. Our findings support the position that the low variation observed in naked mole‐rat populations south of the Athi River reflects a founder event, rather than a consequence of this species’ unusual mating system.
Increased soil phosphorus availability induced by faba bean root exudation stimulates root growth and phosphorus uptake in neighbouring maize
Authors: Zhang Deshan , Zhang Chaochun , Tang Xiaoyan , Li Haigang , Zhang Fusuo , Rengel Zed , Whalley William R. , Davies William J. , Shen Jianbo
Published: August 2015

Root growth is influenced by soil nutrients and neighbouring plants, but how these two drivers affect root interactions and regulate plant growth dynamics is poorly understood. Here, interactions between the roots of maize (Zea mays) and faba bean (Vicia faba) are characterized.

Maize was grown alone (maize) or with maize (maize/maize) or faba bean (maize/faba bean) as competitors under five levels of phosphorus (P) supply, and with homogeneous or heterogeneous P distribution.

Maize had longer root length and greater shoot biomass and P content when grown with faba bean than with maize. At each P supply rate, faba bean had a smaller root system than maize but greater exudation of citrate and acid phosphatase, suggesting a greater capacity to mobilize P in the rhizosphere. Heterogeneous P availability enhanced the root‐length density of maize but not faba bean. Maize root proliferation in the P‐rich patches was associated with increased shoot P uptake.

Increased P availability by localized P application or by the presence of faba bean exudation stimulated root morphological plasticity and increased shoot growth in maize in the maize/faba bean mixture, suggesting that root interactions of neighbouring plants can be modified by increased P availability.
Role of Curcumin in Common Musculoskeletal Disorders: a Review of Current Laboratory, Translational, and Clinical Data
Authors: Peddada Krishi V , Peddada Kranti Venkata , Shukla Surendra K , Mishra Anusha , Verma Vivek
Published: August 2015

The Indian spice turmeric, in which the active and dominant biomolecule is curcumin, has been demonstrated to have significant medicinal properties, including anti‐inflammatory and anti‐neoplastic effects. This promise is potentially very applicable to musculoskeletal disorders, which are common causes of physician visits worldwide. Research at the laboratory, translational and clinical levels that supports the use of curcumin for various musculoskeletal disorders, such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, musculocartilaginous disorders, and sarcoma is here in comprehensively summarized. Though more phaseI−IIItrials are clearly needed, thus far the existing data show that curcumin can indeed potentially be useful in treatment of the hundreds of millions worldwide who are afflicted by these musculoskeletal disorders.
Reconstruction of Segmental Stability of Goat Cervical Spine with Poly (D, L‐lactic acid) Cage
Authors: Li Xiao‐hui , Song Yue‐ming , Duan Hong
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To compare the characteristics of inter body fusion after using an established poly (D, L‐lactic acid) (PDLLA) cage, a titanium cage or autologous tricortical iliac crest graft in a goat cervical spine model in vivo.

Methods

Twenty‐four goats were assigned to three groups: PDLLA cage group (n = 8), titanium alloy cage group (n = 8) and autologous iliac bone group (n = 8), and underwent C3‐4 discectomy and fusion with the allocated procedure. Radiography was performed pre‐ and post‐operatively and after 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks and disc space height (DSH), intervertebral angle (IVA), and lordosis angle (LA) measured at these time points. After 12 weeks, the goats were killed and fusion sites removed. Biomechanical testing was performed in flexion, extension, axial rotation, and lateral bending to determine the stiffness and range of motion (ROM). All specimens were also assessed histomorphologically.

Results

The IVA of PDLLA cage four weeks postoperatively and DSH eight and twelve weeks postoperatively were significantly greater than that of autologous iliac bone graft (P < 0.05). The LA values did not differ significantly between groups. The stiffness of both types of cages for axial rotation and lateral bending, and ROM for every movement, were significantly greater than that of the autologous iliac bone graft group (P < 0.05). PDLLA and titanium cages did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Radiographic and histomorphological assessment showed better fusion in the cage than the autologous bone groups.

Conclusion

The PDLLA cage can provide good intervertebral distract ability and enough biomechanical stability for cervical fusion.