bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental changes in the embodied self of spatial perspective taking
Authors: Watanabe Masayuki
Published: December 2015

Spatial perspective taking consists of mental self‐rotation and other cognitive information processing. Mental self‐rotation is a process of rotating an embodied representational self through mental simulation of the sensorimotor mechanisms underlying actual self‐movement. It was predicted that physical development would affect the operation of the representational self. One hundred and twenty‐five individuals aged 5–80 years (57 children, 35 students, and 33 elderly people) executed a video game task of spatial perspective taking in three conditions of sensorimotor activation: A restrained, stable, and unstable condition. In the linear function formulas considering the degree of rotation and response times, the gradient represented the theoretical speed of mental self‐rotation and the intercept represented other cognitive processing. A significant interaction was found between age group and condition on the gradients, indicating that the response times in the unstable condition were faster than in the other conditions for the children, the restrained condition was slower than the other conditions for the students, while no difference was found for the elderly adults. The results suggest that the influence of sensorimotor activation on the embodied representational self depends on developmental changes in physical control.
Social ranking effects on tooth‐brushing behaviour
Authors: Maltby John , Paterson Kevin , Day Liz , Jones Ceri , Kinnear Hayley , Buchanan Heather
Published: December 2015

Objective

A tooth‐brushing social rank hypothesis is tested suggesting tooth‐brushing duration is influenced when individuals position their behaviour in a rank when comparing their behaviour with other individuals.

Design

Study 1 used a correlation design, Study 2 used a semi‐experimental design, and Study 3 used a randomized intervention design to examine the tooth‐brushing social rank hypothesis in terms of self‐reported attitudes, cognitions, and behaviour towards tooth‐brushing duration.

Methods

Study 1 surveyed participants to examine whether the perceived health benefits of tooth‐brushing duration could be predicted from the ranking of each person's tooth‐brushing duration. Study 2 tested whether manipulating the rank position of the tooth‐brushing duration influenced participant‐perceived health benefits of tooth‐brushing duration. Study 3 used a longitudinal intervention method to examine whether messages relating to the rank positions of tooth‐brushing durations causally influenced the self‐report tooth‐brushing duration.

Results

Study 1 demonstrates that perceptions of the health benefits from tooth‐brushing duration are predicted by the perceptions of how that behaviour ranks in comparison to other people's behaviour. Study 2 demonstrates that the perceptions of the health benefits of tooth‐brushing duration can be manipulated experimentally by changing the ranked position of a person's tooth‐brushing duration. Study 3 experimentally demonstrates the possibility of increasing the length of time for which individuals clean their teeth by focusing on how they rank among their peers in terms of tooth‐brushing duration.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of interventions using social‐ranking methods relative to those that emphasize comparisons made against group averages or normative guidelines are discussed.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Individual make judgements based on social rank information.

Social rank information has been shown to influence positive health behaviours such as exercise.

What does this study add?

The health benefits of tooth‐brushing are predicted by how tooth‐brushing duration ranks within a distribution.

Focussing on how teeth‐cleaning duration ranks among others produces longer teeth‐cleaning durations.
Association of endogenous testosterone with subclinical atherosclerosis in men: the multi‐ethnic study of atherosclerosis
Authors: Khazai Bahram , Golden Sherita Hill , Colangelo Laura A. , Swerdloff Ronald , Wang Christina , Honoris Lily , Gapstur Susan M. , Ouyang Pamela , Cushman Mary , Li Dong , Kopp Peter , Vaidya Dhananjay , Liu Kiang , Dobs Adrian , Budoff Matthew
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Whether endogenous sex hormones play a role in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in men is unclear. Few studies have examined associations of sex hormones with atherosclerosis measured by coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT). We evaluated the association of testosterone (T) and other sex hormones with CACS and cIMT.

Methods

Using the large multi‐ethnic cohort of 3164 men without known CVD in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), cross‐sectional associations of tertiles of endogenous sex hormones with CACS and cIMT were analysed.

Results

In regard to CAC, there was a significant negative trend (P‐trend = 0·02) for CACS>0 over tertiles of free T (FT) with RRs (95% CI) for the lowest to highest tertiles. There was also a marginally significant positive trend (P‐trend = 0·06) for CACS>0 over tertiles of sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) with RRs for the lowest to highest tertiles. There were no significant associations with CACS >0 for tertiles of TT (Total T), bioavailable T (BT), oestradiol (E2) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). There was significantly higher log CACS after adjustment for CVD risk factors for lower TT levels, compared to higher levels, using 9·54 and 10·4 nmol/l as cut‐off points. In regard to cIMT, there was a significant positive trend (P = 0·003) in mean cIMT over the tertiles of BT, but not for TT, FT, E2, DHEA and SHBG. There was significantly lower cIMT after adjustment for CVD risk factors for lower TT levels compared to higher levels.

Conclusion

In a population of male subjects with no known CVD, lower FT is associated with higher RR of CACS>0 and lower TT is associated with higher log CACS. Lower BT and TT are associated with lower cIMT. While these findings support the positive correlation between low T and coronary atherosclerosis, the opposite findings on cIMT warrant further evaluation.
Recognition of the Cornelia de Lange syndrome phenotype with facial dysmorphology novel analysis
Authors: Basel‐Vanagaite L. , Wolf L. , Orin M. , Larizza L. , Gervasini C. , Krantz I.D. , Deardoff M.A.
Published: December 2015

Facial analysis systems are becoming available to healthcare providers to aid in the recognition of dysmorphic phenotypes associated with a multitude of genetic syndromes. These technologies automatically detect facial points and extract various measurements from images to recognize dysmorphic features and evaluate similarities to known facial patterns (gestalts). To evaluate such systems' usefulness for supporting the clinical practice of healthcare professionals, the recognition accuracy of the Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) phenotype was examined with FDNA's automated facial dysmorphology novel analysis (FDNA) technology. In the first experiment, 2D facial images of CdLS patients with either an NIPBL or SMC1A gene mutation as well as non‐CdLS patients which were assessed by dysmorphologists in a previous study were evaluated by the FDNA technology; the average detection rate of experts was 77% while the system's detection rate was 87%. In the second study, when a new set of NIPBL, SMC1A and non‐CdLS patient photos was evaluated, the detection rate increased to 94%. The results from both studies indicated that the system's detection rate was comparable to that of dysmorphology experts. Therefore, utilizing such technologies may be a useful tool in a clinical setting.
Preferred conservation policies of shark researchers
Authors: Shiffman David S. , Hammerschlag Neil
Published: December 2015

There is increasing concern about the conservation status of sharks. However, the presence of numerous different (and potentially mutually exclusive) policies complicates management implementation and public understanding of the process. We distributed an online survey to members of the largest professional shark and ray research societies to assess member knowledge of and attitudes toward different conservation policies. Questions covered society member opinions on conservation and management policies, personal histories of involvement in advocacy and management, and perceptions of the approach of conservation nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to shark conservation. One hundred and two surveys were completed (overall response rate 21%). Respondents considered themselves knowledgeable about and actively involved in conservation and management policy; a majority believed scientists have a responsibility to advocate for conservation (75%), and majorities have sent formal public comments to policymakers (54%) and included policy suggestions in their papers (53%). They believe sustainable shark fisheries are possible, are currently happening today (in a few places), and should be the goal instead of banning fisheries. Respondents were generally less supportive of newer limit‐based (i.e., policies that ban exploitation entirely without a species‐specific focus) conservation policy tools, such as shark sanctuaries and bans on the sale of shark fins, than of target‐based fisheries management tools (i.e., policies that allow for sustainable harvest of species whose populations can withstand it), such as fishing quotas. Respondents were generally supportive of environmental NGO efforts to conserve sharks but raised concerns about some NGOs that they perceived as using incorrect information and focusing on the wrong problems. Our results show there is an ongoing debate in shark conservation and management circles relative to environmental policy on target‐based natural resources management tools versus limit‐based conservation tools. They also suggest that closer communication between the scientific and environmental NGO communities may be needed to recognize and reconcile differing values and objectives between these groups.
Management approach and surgical strategies for retrorectal tumours: a systematic review
Authors: Toh J. W. T. , Morgan M.
Published: December 2015

Aim

The management strategy for retrorectal tumours is complex. Due to their rarity, few surgeons have expertise in management.

Method

A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed database. English language publications in the years 2011−2015 that assessed preoperative management, surgical strategies and chemoradiotherapy for presacral tumours were included. Two hundred and fifty‐one abstracts were screened of which 88 met the inclusion criteria. After review of the full text, this resulted in a final list of 42 studies eligible for review.

Results

In all, 932 patients (63.2% female, 36.8% male; P < 0.01) with a retrorectal tumour were identified. Most were benign (65.9% vs 33.7%, P < 0.01). Imaging distinguished benign from malignant lesions in 88.1% of cases; preoperative biopsy was superior to imaging in providing an accurate definitive diagnosis (91.3% vs 61.4%, P < 0.05) with negligible seeding risk. Biopsy should be performed in solid tumours. It is useful in guiding neoadjuvant therapy for gastrointestinal stromal tumours, sarcomas and desmoid type fibromatosis and may alter the management strategy in cases of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and metastases. Biopsies for cystic lesions are not recommended. The gold standard in imaging is MRI. The posterior Kraske procedure is the most common surgical approach. Overall, the reported recurrence rate was 19.7%.

Conclusion

This review evaluated the management strategies for retrorectal tumours. A preoperative biopsy should be performed for solid tumours. MRI is the most useful imaging modality. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment. There is limited information on robotic surgery, single‐port surgery, transanal endoscopic microsurgery, chemoradiotherapy and reconstruction.
Clinical pattern and progression of ulcerative proctitis in the Japanese population: a retrospective study of incidence and risk factors influencing progression
Authors: Anzai H. , Hata K. , Kishikawa J. , Ishii H. , Nishikawa T. , Tanaka T. , Tanaka J. , Kiyomatsu T. , Kawai K. , Nozawa H. , Kazama S. , Yamaguchi H. , Ishihara S. , Sunami E. , Kitayama J. , Watanabe T.
Published: December 2015

Aim

The rate of extension of proctitis in Western countries has been reported, but no data regarding long‐term follow‐up have been described for the Japanese population. Additionally, patients with long‐standing or extensive ulcerative colitis have an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer. This study evaluated both the rate of extension of the disease and the development of neoplasia among patients with an initial diagnosis of ulcerative proctitis.

Method

We retrospectively investigated the medical charts of patients with proctitis from 1979 to 2014. The primary focus of this research was the extension of the inflammatory area. The secondary focus included risk factors for disease extension and the development of neoplasia.

Results

Sixty‐six patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. Proximal extension of the disease occurred in 34 patients: 19 patients had left‐sided colitis and 15 had pancolitis. According to a multivariate analysis, disease extension was significantly higher in patients with disease onset before 25 years of age (P‐value = 0.043). The cumulative rates of disease extension at 10 and 20 years were 33.8% and 52.2%, respectively. Three patients were diagnosed with dysplasia during follow‐up, all of whom experienced disease extension before the development of dysplasia.

Conclusion

The rate of extension of ulcerative colitis in the Japanese population was comparable to that in Western countries. A younger age of disease onset was associated with disease extension. Extension of proctitis may be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Protective factors associated with short‐term cessation of injection drug use among a Canadian cohort of people who inject drugs
Authors: Luchenski Serena , Ti Lianping , Hayashi Kanna , Dong Huiru , Wood Evan , Kerr Thomas
Published: December 2015

Introduction and Aims

Strategies are needed to transition persons who inject drugs out of injecting. We undertook this study to identify protective factors associated with cessation of injection drug use.

Design and Methods

Data were derived from three prospective cohorts of people who use illicit drugs in Vancouver, Canada, between September 2005 and November 2011. Generalised estimating equations were used to examine protective factors and 6‐month cessation of injection drug use.

Results

Our sample of 1663 people who inject drugs included 563 (33.9%) women, and median age was 40 years. Overall, 904 (54.4%) individuals had at least one 6‐month injection cessation event. In multivariable analysis, protective factors associated with cessation of injection drug use included the following: having a regular place to stay [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.30; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13–1.48]; formal employment (AOR = 1.12; 95% CI 1.01–1.23); social support from personal contacts (AOR = 1.22; 95% CI 1.10–1.35); social support from professionals (AOR = 1.26; 95% CI 1.14–1.39); ability to access health and social services (AOR = 1.21; 95% CI 1.09–1.34); and positive self‐rated health (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.11–1.32).

Discussion and Conclusions

Over half of people who inject drugs in this study reported achieving 6‐month cessation of injection drug use, with cessation being associated with a range of modifiable protective factors. Policy makers and practitioners should promote increased access to stable housing, employment, social support and other services to promote cessation of injection drug use. [Luchenski S, Ti L, Hayashi K, Dong H, Wood E, Kerr T. Protective factors associated with short‐term cessation of injection drug use among a Canadian cohort of people who inject drugs Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:620–627]
Typology of alcohol consumers in five Australian nighttime entertainment districts
Authors: Peacock Amy , Norman Thomas , Bruno Raimondo , Pennay Amy , Droste Nicolas , Jenkinson Rebecca , Quinn Brendan , Lubman Dan I. , Miller Peter
Published: December 2015

Introduction and Aims

Understanding how types of alcohol consumers differ is important for public policy targeted at reducing adverse events. The aims of the present study were to identify typologies of alcohol consumers in Australian nighttime entertainment districts based on risk factors for harm and to examine variation between the identified groups in drinking setting and harms.

Design and Methods

Street‐intercept surveys were conducted with 5556 alcohol consumers in and around licensed venues in five Australian cities between November 2011 and June 2012. Latent class analysis identified groups based on age and sex, and blood alcohol concentration, pre‐drinking, energy drink use and illicit drug use during that night.

Results

Four classes were identified: general patron group (33%), young pre‐drinker group (27%), intoxicated male pre‐drinker group (31%) and intoxicated illicit drug male group (9%). The proportion of the general patron group interviewed decreased over the night, while the other groups increased (particularly in regional cities). As compared with the general patron group, the remaining three groups reported increased odds of being involved in aggression and any alcohol‐related injuries in the past 3 months, with highest rates of harm amongst the intoxicated illicit drug male group.

Discussion and Conclusions

Alcohol consumers in nighttime entertainment districts are not a homogeneous group. One‐third have a low likelihood of risky consumption practices; however, representation of this consumer class diminishes throughout the night. Elevated harms amongst groups characterised by certain risk factors (e.g. pre‐drinking and illicit drug use) emphasise the importance of addressing these behaviours in public policy. [Peacock A, Norman T, Bruno B, Pennay, Droste N, Jenkinson R, Quinn B, Lubman DI, Miller P. Typology of alcohol consumers in five Australian nighttime entertainment districts. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:539–548]
Simulating effects of climate change under direct and diapause development in a butterfly
Authors: Klockmann Michael , Schröder Uta , Karajoli Fajes , Fischer Klaus
Published: December 2015

Temperature is one of the most important ecological factors affecting species survival and distributions. Therefore, global climate change, involving increases in mean surface temperature and the occurrence of extreme weather events, may pose a substantial challenge to biodiversity. Whereas tropical ectotherms are believed to be very sensitive to climate change, temperate‐zone species may actually benefit from higher temperatures. However, as in temperate zones large parts of the year are unsuitable for growth and reproduction, seasonal time constraints may complicate matters. Against this background we here investigate the impact of simulated climate change, involving increased mean temperatures and heat waves, across developmental pathways of the butterfly Lycaena tityrus (Poda) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). Increased temperatures speeded up development but decreased pupal mass as expected. However, we found no evidence for detrimental effects of increased temperatures or even simulated heat waves. Furthermore, patterns did not differ between indirectly and directly developing individuals, which are assumed to be more time constrained. Our findings support the notion that not all species will be detrimentally affected by climate change, and suggest that species attributes may be more important than potential time constraints imposed by different developmental pathways.
Gait phenotype from mild cognitive impairment to moderate dementia: results from the GOOD initiative
Authors: Allali G. , Annweiler C. , Blumen H. M. , Callisaya M. L. , De Cock A.‐M. , Kressig R. W. , Srikanth V. , Steinmetz J.‐P. , Verghese J. , Beauchet O.
Published: December 2015

Background and purpose

The differences in gait abnormalities from the earliest to the later stages of dementia and in the different subtypes of dementia have not been fully examined. This study aims to compare spatiotemporal gait parameters in cognitively healthy individuals, patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and non‐amnestic MCI, and patients with mild and moderate stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and non‐Alzheimer's disease (non‐AD).

Methods

Based on a cross‐sectional design, 1719 participants (77.4 ± 7.3 years, 53.9% female) were recruited from cohorts from seven countries participating in the Gait, Cognition and Decline (GOOD) initiative. Mean values and coefficients of variation of spatiotemporal gait parameters were measured during normal pace walking with the GAITRite system at all sites.

Results

Performance of spatiotemporal gait parameters declined in parallel with the stage of cognitive decline from MCI status to moderate dementia. Gait parameters of patients with non‐amnestic MCI were more disturbed compared to patients with amnestic MCI, and MCI subgroups performed better than demented patients. Patients with non‐AD dementia had worse gait performance than those with AD dementia. This degradation of gait parameters was similar between mean values and coefficients of variation of spatiotemporal gait parameters in the earliest stages of cognitive decline, but different in the most advanced stages, especially in the non‐AD subtypes.

Conclusions

Spatiotemporal gait parameters were more disturbed in the advanced stages of dementia, and more affected in the non‐AD dementias than in AD. These findings suggest that quantitative gait parameters could be used as a surrogate marker for improving the diagnosis of dementia.
Population‐based comparative analysis of risk of death in children and adolescents with epilepsy and migraine
Authors: Selassie Anbesaw W. , Wilson Dulaney A. , Wagner Janelle L. , Smith Gigi , Wannamaker Braxton B.
Published: December 2015

Objective

Follow‐up studies of children and adolescents with epilepsy (CAW‐E) have revealed higher risk of mortality than children in the general population. The mortality experience of CAW‐E relative to patients with other common neurologic disorders in the pediatric age group is yet undetermined. The objectives of this study are the following: (1) to compare the causes and the adjusted risk of death in CAW‐E with that of children and adolescents with migraine (CAW‐M) in reference to children and adolescents with lower extremity fracture (CAW‐LEF), and children and adolescents in the general population; (2) to evaluate if disparate mortality risks exist by demographic characteristics.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 56,781 children and adolescents 0–18 years of age hospitalized or treated in an emergency or outpatient department from 2000 to 2011 for epilepsy, migraine, or lower extremity fracture from all nonfederal health care facilities. Data on deaths were acquired from linked multiple causes of death data file using person‐specific unique identifiers. Time of follow‐up was from initial clinical encounter to time of death or censoring date of December 31, 2011. The association of risk characteristics with mortality was examined with Cox proportional hazard model after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Four hundred forty‐seven CAW‐E and 125 CAW‐M died yielding mortality rates of 8.71 and 1.36 per 1,000 person‐years, respectively. The 5‐year risk of death was 4.38% for CAW‐E, 0.68% for CAW‐M, and 0.71% for CAW‐LEF. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were 3.81 (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.08–3.72) in CAW‐E and 1.14 (95% CI 0.94–1.34) in CAW‐M relative to CAW‐LEF. Risk of death from neurodevelopmental comorbidities was 5.86 (95% CI 4.24–8.08) times greater than those without in the model that compared epilepsy with LEF.

Significance

There is an elevated risk of death in CAW‐E with neurodevelopmental comorbidities that remains to be proven.
SNEVPrp19/PSO4 deficiency increases PUVA‐induced senescence in mouse skin
Authors: Monteforte Rossella , Beilhack Georg F. , Grausenburger Reinhard , Mayerhofer Benjamin , Bittner Reginald , Grillari‐Voglauer Regina , Sibilia Maria , Dellago Hanna , Tschachler Erwin , Gruber Florian , Grillari Johannes
Published: December 2015

Senescent cells accumulate during ageing in various tissues and contribute to organismal ageing. However, factors that are involved in the induction of senescence in vivo are still not well understood. SNEVPrp19/PSO4 is a multifaceted protein, known to be involved in DNA damage repair and senescence, albeit only in vitro. In this study, we used heterozygous SNEV+/− mice (SNEV‐knockout results in early embryonic lethality) and wild‐type littermate controls as a model to elucidate the role of SNEVPrp19/PSO4 in DNA damage repair and senescence in vivo. We performed PUVA treatment as model system for potently inducing cellular senescence, consisting of 8‐methoxypsoralen in combination with UVA on mouse skin to induce DNA damage and premature skin ageing. We show that SNEVPrp19/PSO4 expression decreases during organismal ageing, while p16, a marker of ageing in vivo, increases. In response to PUVA treatment, we observed in the skin of both SNEVPrp19/PSO4 and wild‐type mice an increase in γ‐H2AX levels, a DNA damage marker. In old SNEVPrp19/PSO4 mice, this increase is accompanied by reduced epidermis thickening and increase in p16 and collagenase levels. Thus, the DNA damage response occurring in the mouse skin upon PUVA treatment is dependent on SNEVPrp19/PSO4 expression and lower levels of SNEVPrp19/PSO4, as in old SNEV+/− mice, result in increase in cellular senescence and acceleration of premature skin ageing.
Effect of the decrease in dialysate sodium in pediatric patients on chronic hemodialysis
Authors: Marsenic Olivera , Anderson Michael , Couloures Kevin G. , Hong Woo S. , Kevin Hall E. , Dahl Neera
Published: December 2015

Optimal dialysate sodium (dNa) is unknown, with both higher and lower values suggested in adult studies to improve outcomes. Similar studies in pediatric hemodialysis (HD) population are missing. This is the first report of the effect of two constant dNa concentrations in pediatric patients on chronic HD. 480 standard HD sessions and interdialytic periods were studied in 5 patients (age 4–17 years, weight 20.8–66 kg) during a period of 6–11 months per patient. dNa was 140 mEq/L during the first half, and 138 mEq/L during the second half of the study period for each patient. Lowering dNa was associated with improved preHD hypertension, decreased interdialytic weight gain, decreased need for ultrafiltration, lower sodium gradient and was well tolerated despite lack of concordance with predialysis sNa, that was variable. Further studies are needed to verify our findings and to investigate if an even lower dNa may be more beneficial in the pediatric HD population.
Flow reduction in high‐flow arteriovenous fistulas improve cardiovascular parameters and decreases need for hospitalization
Authors: Balamuthusamy Saravanan , Jalandhara Nishant , Subramanian Anand , Mohanaselvan Arvindselvan
Published: December 2015

High output heart failure (HF) and pulmonary hypertension have been demonstrated in patients with prevalent arteriovenous (AV) fistulas. Fistulas with flow >2000 mL/minutes are more likely to induce changes in cardiac geometry and pulmonary artery pressure. The effects of reducing flow in AV access and its implications on HF decompensation and hospitalizations have not been studied. Retrospective analysis of 12 patients who needed hospitalization for acute Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) decompensation with AV access flow of 2 L/minutes (as defined by Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI)) or more were included in the study. All the patients underwent banding of their inflow at the anastomosis with perioperative access flow measurement. Follow‐up period was 6 months. 2D echo was done at 6 months postbanding in addition to access flow and clinical evaluation. Complete data was available for all the 12 patients. Study data was collected on all the 12 patients. Mean age was 64.7 years. The mean access flow pre and postbanding were 3784 mL/minutes and 1178 mL/minutes, respectively (P < 0.001). Eighty percent of the patients had diabetes and 41% had coronary artery disease. There was a statistically significant decrease in cardiac output (pre = 7.06 L/minutes, post = 6.47 L/minutes P = 0.03), pulmonary systolic pressure (pre = 54 mmHg, post = 44 mmHg P = 0.02), left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (pre = 130 g/m2, post = 125 g/m2 P = 0.006) and need for rehospitalization for CHF decompensation. The New York Heart Association (NYHA) staging improved by 1 stage postbanding (P = 0.002). The hospitalization rate was 3.75 ± 1.2 in the 6 months before banding and was decreased to 1.08 ± 1.2 (P = 0.002) postbanding. The hemoglobin level, predialysis systolic blood pressure, calcium phosphorous product and the use of Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System (RAAS) blockade agents and calcium channel blockers were comparable before and after inflow banding. Flow reduction in high flow fistulas are associated with decreased LVMI and pulmonary artery pressures. There is also a significant reduction in the risk for hospitalization due to acute HF and an improvement in NYHA heart failure stage.
Comparative accuracy of the Clearing Technique, CBCT and Micro‐CT methods in studying the mesial root canal configuration of mandibular first molars
Authors: Ordinola‐Zapata R. , Bramante C. M. , Versiani M. A. , Moldauer B. I. , Topham G. , Gutmann J. L. , Nuñez A. , Duarte M. A. Hungaro , Abella F.
Published: December 2015

Aims

To compare the accuracy of the clearing technique and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the assessment of root canal configurations using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) imaging system as the reference standard.

Methodology

Thirty‐two mesial roots of mandibular first molars, selected on the basis of micro‐CT scans (voxel size: 19.6 μm) and presenting several canal configurations, were evaluated using 2 CBCT scanners (voxels sizes: 120 μm and 150 μm) followed by the clearing technique. Two examiners analysed the data from each method and classified the anatomical configuration of the mesial canal according to Vertucci's system. Data were compared using Fisher's exact and chi‐square tests. Reliability for each assessment was verified by the kappa test, and significance level was set at 5%.

Results

Kappa value indicated a high level of agreement between the examiners. Detection of type I configurations was significantly lower in cleared teeth (P < 0.05), whilst type II root canals were detected in all specimens by both tests (P > 0.05). In mesial roots with variable anatomical configurations, CBCT and the clearing method were significantly less accurate than the reference standard (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Within the tooth population studied, accuracy of identifying mesial root canal configuration was influenced greatly by the evaluation method and the type of anatomy. Detection of type I configurations in cleared teeth was significantly lower, whilst type II configurations were detected in all specimens by both methods. In mesial roots with variable anatomical configurations, neither CBCT nor clearing methods were accurate for detecting the actual root canal anatomy.
Heme oxygenase‐1 inhibits basophil maturation and activation but promotes its apoptosis in T helper type 2‐mediated allergic airway inflammation
Authors: Zhong Wenwei , Di Caixia , Lv Jiajia , Zhang Yanjie , Lin Xiaoliang , Yuan Yufan , Lv Jie , Xia Zhenwei
Published: December 2015

The anti‐inflammatory role of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) has been studied extensively in many disease models including asthma. Many cell types are anti‐inflammatory targets of HO‐1, such as dendritic cells and regulatory T cells. In contrast to previous reports that HO‐1 had limited effects on basophils, which participate in T helper type 2 immune responses and antigen‐induced allergic airway inflammation, we demonstrated in this study, for the first time, that the up‐regulation of HO‐1 significantly suppressed the maturation of mouse basophils, decreased the expression of CD40, CD80, MHC‐II and activation marker CD200R on basophils, blocked DQ‐ovalbumin uptake and promoted basophil apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo, leading to the inhibition of T helper type 2 polarization. These effects of HO‐1 were mimicked by exogenous carbon monoxide, which is one of the catalytic products of HO‐1. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of HO‐1‐modified basophils reduced ovalbumin‐induced allergic airway inflammation. The above effects of HO‐1 can be reversed by the HO‐1 inhibitor Sn‐protoporphyrin IX. Moreover, conditional depletion of basophils accompanying hemin treatment further attenuated airway inflammation compared with the hemin group, indicating that the protective role of HO‐1 may involve multiple immune cells. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that HO‐1 exerted its anti‐inflammatory function through suppression of basophil maturation and activation, but promotion of basophil apoptosis, providing a possible novel therapeutic target in allergic asthma.
Trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccination effectiveness in Australia and South Africa: results from a modelling study
Authors: Milne George J. , Halder Nilimesh , Kelso Joel K. , Barr Ian G. , Moyes Jocelyn , Kahn Kathleen , Twine Rhian , Cohen Cheryl
Published: December 2015

Background

A modelling study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of trivalent (TIV) and quadrivalent (QIV) vaccination in South Africa and Australia.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the potential benefits of alternative vaccination strategies which may depend on community‐specific demographic and health characteristics.

Methods

Two influenza A and two influenza B strains were simulated using individual‐based simulation models representing specific communities in South Africa and Australia over 11 years. Scenarios using TIV or QIV, with alternative prioritisation strategies and vaccine coverage levels, were evaluated using a country‐specific health outcomes process.

Results

In South Africa, approximately 18% fewer deaths and hospitalisations would be expected to result from the use of QIV compared to TIV over the 11 modelled years (P = 0·031). In Australia, only 2% (P = 0·30) fewer deaths and hospitalisations would result. Vaccinating 2%, 5%, 15% or 20% of the population with TIV using a strategy of prioritising vulnerable age groups, including HIV‐positive individuals, resulted in reductions in hospitalisations and mortality of at least 7%, 18%, 57% and 66%, respectively, in both communities.

Conclusions

The degree to which QIV can reduce health burden compared to TIV is strongly dependent on the number of years in which the influenza B lineage in the TIV matches the circulating B lineages. Assuming a moderate level of B cross‐strain protection, TIV may be as effective as QIV. The choice of vaccination prioritisation has a greater impact than the QIV/TIV choice, with strategies targeting those most responsible for transmission being most effective.
Influenza surveillance on ‘foie gras’ duck farms in Bulgaria, 2008–2012
Authors: Marinova‐Petkova Atanaska , Georgiev Georgi , Petkov Todor , Darnell Daniel , Franks John , Kayali Ghazi , Walker David , Seiler Patrick , Danner Angela , Graham Allison , McKenzie Pamela , Krauss Scott , Webby Richard J. , Webster Robert G.
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Ducks can shed and spread influenza A viruses (IAVs) while showing no disease signs. Our objective was to clarify the role of ‘foie gras’ ducks in the circulation of IAVs in Bulgaria.

Methods

Monthly avian influenza surveillance was conducted on 63 ‘foie gras’ duck farms, 52 of which were surveyed throughout the study between November 2008 and April 2012. Virologic and serologic samples were collected and tested. During this time, wild bird samples were collected at major wild bird‐resting areas near the Black Sea coast and Danube River.

Results

The study showed high isolation frequency of low‐pathogenicity avian influenza viruses. In the raising population (<75 days old), subtypes H3, H4, and H6 were detected monthly and H5 LPAIV, sporadically. Different subtypes (H1, H10, H11) were isolated from the fattening premises (75‐ to 100‐day‐old ducks), suggesting different routes of introduction. Only 6 of the 52 farms that were surveyed both virologically and serologically were influenza‐free throughout the study, possibly due to higher biosecurity measures implemented. No evidence of direct transmission of IAV from wild birds was found. Wild bird surveillance showed low isolation frequency of IAV. IAV prevalence of 0·55% for migratory ducks and 0·53% for migratory geese was estimated in November–December 2011 and January–February 2012, respectively, at two ornithologically important locations near the Black Sea coast.

Conclusions

The ‘foie gras’ duck farms in Bulgaria are an optimal niche where Eurasian‐like IAVs are maintained and reassorted unapparent to farmers and veterinarians.
Dynamic joint pricing and production policy for perishable products
Authors: Feng Lin , Zhang Jianxiong , Tang Wansheng
Published: December 2015

A joint dynamic pricing and production problem for perishable products without shortages is considered. The demand rate is price‐dependent and time‐varying. This paper constructs an optimal control model to maximize the total profit under a general nonlinear production cost function. The feature of the optimal joint dynamic pricing and production policy is analyzed by solving the corresponding optimal control problem on the basis of improved Pontryagin's maximum principle. Then, an effective algorithm is designed to obtain the optimal joint policy. The case of the joint static optimal policy is also investigated and compared with the dynamic one. Finally, numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods, and some managerial implications are provided for the management of perishable items.
The role of negative pressure wound therapy in the management of hidradenitis suppurativa: a case report and literature review
Authors: Parrado Raphael , Cadena Manuel , Vergara Arturo , Cadena Diana , Chalela Juan G
Published: December 2015

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory disease affecting skin that bears apocrine glands. It is characterised by the presence of tender subcutaneous nodules that may rupture, resulting in deep dermal abscesses, fibrosis with dermal contractures and induration of the skin. The management of HS is a challenge for physicians as the pathogenesis is not clearly defined and prevents the use and development of directed therapies. Treatment options are oral agents (antibiotics, immunomodulators) and surgical excision. Historically, surgical management has been complicated by difficult closure and high recurrent rates. In the last 10 years, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has proven to be a great adjunct for wound management as it provides the adequate conditions for wound healing, promotes granulation and helps to control infection. Here, we report a case of severe perineal HS treated with radical excision and NPWT as an adjunct. The patient only had a recurrence 3 years after primary treatment and was surgically treated for cosmetic reasons without any complications. Finally, we present a review of the relevant literature.
Influence of Al2O3 and B2O3 on Sintering and Crystallization of Lithium Silicate Glass System
Authors: Gaddam Anuraag , Fernandes Hugo R. , Pascual Maria J. , Ferreira José M.F.
Published: December 2015

This article reports on the effect of Al2O3 and B2O3 added as dopants on the preparation of glass‐ceramics (GCs) belonging to the lithium silicate glass system. The GCs are prepared by sintering route using glass powders. The reasons for the crystallization of the metastable crystalline phase lithium metasilicate (LS) are discussed and the impact of the dopants on the thermodynamics and kinetics of crystallization is investigated. The addition of dopants modifies the thermodynamic equilibrium of the system and this change is mainly entropy driven and also slowdown the kinetics of crystallization. Differential thermal analysis and hot‐stage microscopy are employed to investigate the glass‐forming ability, sintering, and crystallization behavior of the studied glasses. The crystalline phase assemblage studied under nonisothermal heating conditions in the temperature range of 800°C–900°C in air. Well sintered and dense glass‐ceramics are obtained after sintering of glass powders at 850°C–900°C for 1 h featuring crystalline phase assemblage dominated by lithium disilicate (LS2).
Accurate Exploration of the Intrinsic Lattice Thermal Conductivity of Si2N2O by Combined Theoretical and Experimental Investigations
Authors: Wan Peng , Tian Zhilin , Luo Yixiu , Liu Bin , Wang Jingyang
Published: December 2015

Si2N2O is a promising ceramic with various structural and functional applications. Precisely exploring its thermal conductivity is crucially important to evaluate its thermal transport reliability as high‐temperature structural component and electronic device. In this paper, temperature‐dependent lattice thermal conductivity of Si2N2O is studied based on a method integrating density functional theory calculations and experimental measurements. The relationship between the complex crystal structure (or heterogeneous chemical bonding) and lattice thermal conductivity of Si2N2O is studied. We herein show that Si2N2O intrinsically has moderately high lattice thermal conductivity [30.9 W·(m·K)−1 at 373 K], but extrinsic phonon scattering mechanisms, such as phonon scattering by point defects and grain boundaries etc., might significantly degrade the magnitude in experimental measurement [15.0 W·(m·K)−1 at 373 K]. This work suggests the significance that understanding the intrinsic thermal conductivity, namely the upper limit value, is a precursor to deciphering the more complicated heat transport behavior of Si2N2O.
Range‐wide phylogeography of the four‐toed salamander: out of Appalachia and into the glacial aftermath
Authors: Herman Timothy A. , Bouzat Juan L.
Published: December 2015

Aim

We assessed the phylogeography of Hemidactylium scutatum across the entire range of the species, quantifying the diversity of populations, and identifying extrinsic factors that may have generated observed patterns of genetic connectivity and distribution.

Location

North America.

Methods

We performed DNA sequence analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 gene of 335 samples collected from 79 field locations distributed throughout the species range. Phylogenetic analyses, patterns of haplotype distribution, DNA mismatch distributions, and partial Mantel tests were performed to estimate divergence times of major clades, identify geographical barriers that determined phylogenetic breaks, and describe a potential scenario for the radiation of the species.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses showed deep sequence divergences with strong support for regional monophyletic groups. Patterns of haplotype distribution suggest that both ancient and modern river drainages acted as barriers to dispersal. Two distinct allopatric clades accounted for all sampling sites within glaciated areas of North America yet showed distinct patterns of recolonization. High levels of haplotype diversity were detected in the southern Appalachians, with several members of widely ranging clades as well as other unique, endemic, and highly divergent lineages. Bayesian analyses estimated the common ancestor of all living Hemidactylium at roughly 8 Ma, with the most basal splits confined to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Main conclusions

Our results are consistent with the ‘Out of Appalachia’ hypothesis for the origin of Hemidactylium scutatum, lending further support to the importance of this region as a generator of biodiversity in eastern North America.
Control of dentin/root sensitivity during non‐surgical and surgical periodontal treatment
Authors: Giassin Nantin Panagiota , Apatzidou Danae Anastasia , Solomou Katerina , Mateo Luis R. , Panagakos Fotinos S. , Konstantinidis Antonis
Published: December 2015

Aim

To determine the efficacy of a desensitizing regimen compared to a control in preventing the occurrence and/or alleviating dentin/root sensitivity (DRS) following non‐surgical (NSPT) and surgical periodontal treatment (SPT).

Methods

Seventy‐four chronic‐periodontitis patients (CPP) were randomized into a test group (n = 38) using an in‐office prophylaxis paste and a toothpaste at home both containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate (Pro‐Argin™ Technology) or into a control group (n = 36) receiving a fluoride‐free prophylaxis paste and a fluoride toothpaste. The examiner applied the assigned paste onto selected teeth for 3 s following NSPT and for 60 s before flap closure. Patients brushed with the assigned toothpaste twice daily throughout the study. DRS to air stimulus was assessed by the Schiff scale (0–3) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS: 0–100 mm) six times over 17 weeks.

Results

In the test group, VAS scores significantly decreased at 8, 11 and 17 weeks from baseline (p ≤ 0.003) and Schiff scores at 8 and 11 weeks from baseline (p ≤ 0.014). The control group exhibited significant increases in VAS and Schiff during the study period (p ≤ 0.006). Marked inter‐group differences were noted at all time points (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The combined use of desensitizing products (8% arginine and calcium carbonate) in‐office and at‐home prevented DRS development and maintained this effect for 17 weeks following NSPT and SPT.
Asymmetry within social groups: division of labour and intergroup competition
Authors: Barker J. L. , Loope K. J. , Reeve H. K.
Published: December 2015

Social animals vary in their ability to compete with group members over shared resources and also vary in their cooperative efforts to produce these resources. Competition among groups can promote within‐group cooperation, but many existing models of intergroup cooperation do not explicitly account for observations that group members invest differentially in cooperation and that there are often within‐group competitive or power asymmetries. We present a game theoretic model of intergroup competition that investigates how such asymmetries affect within‐group cooperation. In this model, group members adopt one of two roles, with relative competitive efficiency and the number of individuals varying between roles. Players in each role make simultaneous, coevolving decisions. The model predicts that although intergroup competition increases cooperative contributions to group resources by both roles, contributions are predominantly from individuals in the less competitively efficient role, whereas individuals in the more competitively efficient role generally gain the larger share of these resources. When asymmetry in relative competitive efficiency is greater, a group's per capita cooperation (averaged across both roles) is higher, due to increased cooperation from the competitively inferior individuals. For extreme asymmetry in relative competitive efficiency, per capita cooperation is highest in groups with a single competitively superior individual and many competitively inferior individuals, because the latter acquiesce and invest in cooperation rather than within‐group competition. These predictions are consistent with observed features of many societies, such as monogynous Hymenoptera with many workers and caste dimorphism.