bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous age‐dependent and age‐independent sexual selection in the lekking black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix)
Authors: Kervinen Matti , Lebigre Christophe , Soulsbury Carl D.
Published: January 2016

Individuals' reproductive success is often strongly associated with their age, with typical patterns of early‐life reproductive improvement and late‐life senescence. These age‐related patterns are due to the inherent trade‐offs between life‐history traits competing for a limited amount of resources available to the organisms. In males, such trade‐offs are exacerbated by the resource requirements associated with the expression of costly sexual traits, leading to dynamic changes in trait expression throughout their life span.

Due to the age dependency of male phenotypes, the relationship between the expression of male traits and mating success can also vary with male age. Hence, using longitudinal data in a lekking species with strong sexual selection – the black grouse Lyrurus tetrix – we quantified the effects of age, life span and age of first lek attendance (AFL) on male annual mating success (AMS) to separate the effects of within‐individual improvement and senescence on AMS from selective (dis)appearance of certain phenotypes. Then, we used male AMS to quantify univariate and multivariate sexual selection gradients on male morphological and behavioural traits with and without accounting for age and age‐related effects of other traits.

Male AMS increased with age, and there was no significant reproductive senescence. Most males never copulated, and of the ones that did, the majority had only one successful year. Life span was unrelated to AMS, but early AFL tended to lead to higher AMS at ages 1–3. AMS was related to most morphological and behavioural traits when male age was ignored. Accounting for age and age‐specific trait effects (i.e. the interaction between a trait and age) reduced the magnitude of the selection gradients and revealed that behavioural traits are under consistent sexual selection, while sexual selection on morphological traits is stronger in old males.

Therefore, sexual selection in black grouse operates primarily on male behaviour and morphological traits may act as additional cues to supplement female choice. These results demonstrate the multifaceted influence of age on both fitness and sexual traits and highlight the importance of accounting for such effects when quantifying sexual selection.
Social inclusion and the Fatosphere: the role of an online weblogging community in fostering social inclusion
Authors: Dickins Marissa , Browning Colette , Feldman Susan , Thomas Samantha
Published: January 2016

Overweight and obesity are one of the most salient issues within society today, and the stigmatisation of overweight individuals is prevalent and widespread. Utilising interviews with 44 individuals who blog within an online fat acceptance community known as the Fatosphere, participants’ perceptions of inclusion and exclusion were examined within their offline and online environments. Additionally, the effect this had on their offline lives was examined. Participants described a profound sense of exclusion within their offline lives through three agencies: the medicalisation of ‘fatness’, the weight loss industry and the media, which echoed descriptions of moral judgement. Furthermore, a sense of inclusion was described within the Fatosphere through the protection and support that they found within this ‘safe space’. The effects of the Fatosphere influenced their lives in both negative and positive ways, allowing them to better deal with stigma and discrimination, but sometimes effecting their offline relationships in a negative manner. The Fatosphere provides a unique opportunity for corpulent individuals to engage in a community that is removed from the prominent weight‐related discourse within modern society.
The Impact of Consumer Numeracy on the Purchase of Long‐Term Care Insurance
Authors: McGarry Brian E. , Temkin‐Greener Helena , Chapman Benjamin P. , Grabowski David C. , Li Yue
Published: January 2016

Objective

To determine the effect of consumers’ numeric abilities on the likelihood of owning private long‐term care insurance.

Data Source

The 2010 wave of the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative survey of Americans age 50 and older, was used (n = 12,796).

Study Design

Multivariate logistic regression was used to isolate the relationship between numeracy and long‐term care insurance ownership.

Principal Findings

Each additional question answered correctly on a numeracy scale was associated with a 13 percent increase in the likelihood of holding LTCI, after controlling for predictors of policy demand, education, and cognitive function.

Conclusions

Poor numeracy may create barriers to long‐term care insurance purchase. Policy efforts aimed at increasing consumer decision support or restructuring the marketplace for long‐term care insurance may be needed to increase older adults' ability to prepare for future long‐term care expenses.
Location Isn't Everything: Proximity, Hospital Characteristics, Choice of Hospital, and Disparities for Breast Cancer Surgery Patients
Authors: Keating Nancy L. , Kouri Elena M. , He Yulei , Freedman Rachel A. , Volya Rita , Zaslavsky Alan M.
Published: January 2016

Objective

Assess the relative importance of proximity and other hospital characteristics in the choice of hospital for breast cancer surgery by race/ethnicity.

Data

SEER‐Medicare data.

Study Design

Observational study of women aged >65 years receiving surgery for stage I/II/III breast cancer diagnosed in 1992–2007 in Detroit (N = 10,746 white/black), Atlanta (N = 4,018 white/black), Los Angeles (N = 9,433 white/black/Asian/Hispanic), and San Francisco (N = 4,856 white/black/Asian). We calculated the distance from each patient's census tract of residence to each area hospital. We estimated discrete choice models for the probability of receiving surgery at each hospital based on distance and assessed whether deviations from these predictions entailed interactions of hospital characteristics with the patient's race/ethnicity. We identified high‐quality hospitals by rates of adjuvant radiation therapy and by survey measures of patient experiences, and we assessed how observed surgery rates at high‐quality hospitals deviated from those predicted based on distance alone.

Principal Findings

Proximity was significantly associated with hospital choice in all areas. Minority more often than white breast cancer patients had surgery at hospitals with more minority patients, those treating more Medicaid patients, and in some areas, lower quality hospitals.

Conclusions

Residential location alone does not explain concentration of racial/ethnic‐minority breast cancer surgery patients in certain hospitals that are sometimes of lower quality.
High Out‐of‐Pocket Medical Spending among the Poor and Elderly in Nine Developed Countries
Authors: Baird Katherine
Published: January 2016

Objective

The design of health insurance, and the role out‐of‐pocket (OOP) payments play in it, is a key policy issue as rising health costs have encouraged greater cost‐sharing measures. This paper compares the percentage of Americans spending large amounts OOP to meet their health needs with percentages in eight other developed countries. By disaggregating by age and income, the paper focuses on the poor and elderly populations within each.

Data Source

The study uses nationally representative household survey data made available through the Luxembourg Income Study. It includes nations with high, medium, and low levels of OOP spending.

Study Design

Households have high medical spending when their OOP expenditures exceed a threshold share of income. I calculate the share of each nation's population, as well as subpopulations within it, with high OOP expenditures.

Principal Findings

The United States is not alone in exposing large numbers of citizens to high OOP expenses. In six of the other eight countries, one‐quarter or more of low‐income citizens devoted at least 5 percent of their income to OOP expenses, and in all but two countries, more than 1 in 10 elderly citizens had high medical expenses.

Conclusions

For some populations in the sample nations, health insurance does not provide adequate financial protection and likely contributes to inequities in health care delivery and outcomes.
Measuring Children's Suggestibility in Forensic Interviews
Authors: Volpini Laura , Melis Manuela , Petralia Stefania , Rosenberg Melina D.
Published: January 2016

According to the scientific literature, childrens’ cognitive development is not complete until adolescence. Therefore, the problems inherent in children serving as witnesses are crucial. In preschool‐aged children, false memories may be identified because of misinformation and insight bias. Additionally, they are susceptible of suggestions. The aim of this study was to verify the levels of suggestibility in children between three and 5 years of age. Ninety‐two children were examined (44 male, 48 female; M = 4.5 years, SD = 9.62). We used the correlation coefficient (Pearson's r) and the averages variance by SPSS statistical program. The results concluded that: younger children are almost always more susceptible to suggestibility. The dimension of immediate recall was negatively correlates with that of total suggestibility (r = −0.357 p < 0.001). Social compliance and source monitoring errors contribute to patterns of suggestibility, because older children shift their answers more often (r = 0.394 p < 0.001). Younger children change their answers more times (r = −0.395 p < 0.001).
Does host plant quality affect the oviposition decisions of an omnivore?
Authors: Vankosky Meghan A. , VanLaerhoven Sherah L.
Published: January 2016

Optimal oviposition theory predicts a positive relationship between female preference for oviposition hosts and offspring performance. Interspecies effects on oviposition preference have been widely investigated, especially for herbivores. However, intraspecies variation, such as nitrogen content, might also influence female preference for oviposition hosts and subsequent offspring performance. To evaluate this possibility, we investigated the oviposition preference of a zoophytophagous omnivore and the development and survival of its nymphs on a single species of host plant that varied in nitrogen content. In choice and no‐choice experiments without prey, female omnivores were allowed to oviposit on plants that had been fertilized using 4 rates of nitrogen fertilizer (39, 78, 156, and 311 mg/L nitrogen) for 72 h. After 72 h, the most females were found on tomato plants receiving high concentrations of nitrogen fertilizer and more eggs were laid on those plants. First instar nymphs developed more rapidly on high‐nitrogen plants and third instar nymphs developed faster on low‐nitrogen plants. Plant nitrogen did not affect nymph survival to the adult stage, or the probability of survival over time. Although female omnivores did discriminate between potential oviposition hosts based on plant nitrogen, their choices did not significantly impact nymph development or survival. This is the first study to show that intraspecies variation in nitrogen content between plants affects the oviposition preference of female omnivores, but not offspring performance.
miR‐204 downregulates EphB2 in aging mouse hippocampal neurons
Authors: Danka Mohammed Chand Parvez , Rhee Hwanseok , Phee Bong‐Kwan , Kim Kunhyung , Kim Hee‐Jin , Lee Hyehyeon , Park Jung Hoon , Jung Jung Hee , Kim Jeong Yeon , Kim Hyoung‐Chin , Park Sang Ki , Nam Hong Gil , Kim Keetae
Published: January 2016

Hippocampal synaptic function and plasticity deteriorate with age, often resulting in learning and memory deficits. As MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of neuronal protein expression, we examined whether miRNAs may contribute to this age‐associated decline in hippocampal function. We first compared the small RNA transcriptome of hippocampal tissues from young and old mice. Among 269 hippocampal miRNAs, 80 were differentially expressed (≥ twofold) among the age groups. We focused on 36 miRNAs upregulated in the old mice compared with those in the young mice. The potential targets of these 36 miRNAs included 11 critical Eph/Ephrin synaptic signaling components. The expression levels of several genes in the Eph/Ephrin pathway, including EphB2, were significantly downregulated in the aged hippocampus. EphB2 is a known regulator of synaptic plasticity in hippocampal neurons, in part by regulating the surface expression of the NMDA receptor NR1 subunit. We found that EphB2 is a direct target of miR‐204 among miRNAs that were upregulated with age. The transfection of primary hippocampal neurons with a miR‐204 mimic suppressed both EphB2 mRNA and protein expression and reduced the surface expression of NR1. Transfection of miR‐204 also decreased the total expression of NR1. miR‐204 induces senescence‐like phenotype in fully matured neurons as evidenced by an increase in p16‐positive cells. We suggest that aging is accompanied by the upregulation of miR‐204 in the hippocampus, which downregulates EphB2 and results in reduced surface and total NR1 expression. This mechanism may contribute to age‐associated decline in hippocampal synaptic plasticity and the related cognitive functions.
How high is your hummock? The importance of Triodia height as a habitat predictor for an endangered marsupial in a fire‐prone environment
Authors: Moseby Katherine , Read John , McLean Amanda , Ward Matthew , Rogers Daniel J.
Published: January 2016

Fire and seral vegetation succession are known to influence the distribution and abundance of a wide range of arid and semi‐arid mammal species. In Triodia hummock grasslands, the gradual increase in Triodia cover after fire is a significant factor influencing mammal distribution and abundance. However, the height of fire‐adapted hummock grass species is often ignored during habitat preference studies despite the fact that taller hummocks are likely to have improved insulation properties and greater protection from predators. We tested the relative importance of a range of Triodia habitat characteristics in determining the distribution and abundance of a fire‐adapted mammal inhabiting Triodia mallee dune fields in semi‐arid Australia. We sampled 77 sites and collected information on habitat attributes including Triodia cover, height and time since fire. The 90th percentile Triodia height (>400 mm) was the most reliable predictor of sandhill dunnart abundance, and breeding, inferred through the presence of subadults. The presence of adult sandhill dunnarts was best explained by Triodia cover, increasing when cover exceeded 25%. We suggest that while Triodia cover may be an important variable for predicting the presence of adult sandhill dunnarts, the height of Triodia is important for breeding, when tall Triodia are possibly sought for nesting sites. These Triodia height and cover requirements were not recorded at sites until at least 10 years post fire but the relationship between fire and Triodia cover and height was inconsistent; after 20 years Triodia cover declined with increasing fire age while the 90th percentile Triodia height remained relatively constant. This incongruence may explain why the presence of sandhill dunnarts appears more constrained by a minimum rather than maximum time since fire and could help explain patterns of post‐fire distribution in other arid zone mammals. Importantly, the 90th percentile Triodia height highlighted the possible significance of scattered, tall Triodia hummocks for arid zone fossorial mammals.
The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus: The accuracy of the NSW perinatal data collection based on a private hospital experience
Authors: Zheng Anna S. Y. , Morris Gary , Moses Robert G.
Published: January 2016

Past studies have shown that the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has been underestimated, and this can have major implications for healthcare planning. With the changes in diagnostic criteria for GDM, we wanted to assess the accuracy of the diagnosis in a private hospital setting. Using data from the hospital's obstetric database, medical records and a private pathology provider, we established the true prevalence of GDM and compared it with the NSW Perinatal Data Collection. The recorded prevalence of 6.8% was well below the real value of 15.0%.
Characterization and application of lactic acid bacteria for tropical silage preparation
Authors: Pholsen Suradej , Khota Waroon , Pang Huili , Higgs David , Cai Yimin
Published: January 2016

Strains TH 14, TH 21 and TH 64 were isolated from tropical silages, namely corn stover, sugar cane top and rice straw, respectively, prepared in Thailand. These strains were selected by low pH growth range and high lactic acid‐producing ability, similar to some commercial inoculants. Based on the analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence and DNA‐DNA relatedness, strain TH 14 was identified as Lactobacillus casei, and strains TH 21 and TH 64 were identified as L. plantarum. Strains TH 14, TH 21, TH 64 and two commercial inoculants, CH (L. plantarum) and SN (L. rhamnosus), were used as additives to fresh and wilted purple Guinea and sorghum silages prepared using a small‐scale fermentation method. The number of epiphytic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in the forages before ensilage was relatively low but the numbers of coliform and aerobic bacteria were higher. Sorghum silages at 30 days of fermentation were all well preserved with low pH (3.56) and high lactic acid production (72.86 g/kg dry matter). Purple Guinea silage inoculated with LAB exhibited reduced count levels of aerobic and coliform bacteria, lower pH, butyric acid and ammonia nitrogen and increased lactic acid concentration, compared with the control. Strain TH 14 more effectively improved lactic acid production compared with inoculants and other strains. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science
Predictive value of negative 3T multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate on 12‐core biopsy results
Authors: Wysock James S. , Mendhiratta Neil , Zattoni Fabio , Meng Xiaosong , Bjurlin Marc , Huang William C. , Lepor Herbert , Rosenkrantz Andrew B. , Taneja Samir S.
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the cancer detection rates for men undergoing 12‐core systematic prostate biopsy with negative prebiopsy multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) results.

Materials and Methods

Clinical data from consecutive men undergoing prostate biopsy who had undergone prebiopsy 3T mpMRI from December 2011 to August 2014 were reviewed from an institutional review board‐approved prospective database. Men with negative prebiospy mpMRI results (negMRI) before biopsy were identified for the present analysis. Clinical features, cancer detection rates and negative predictive values were summarized.

Results

Seventy five men with negMRI underwent systematic 12‐core biopsy during the study period. In the entire cohort, men with no previous biopsy, men with previously negative biopsy and men enrolled in active surveillance protocols, the overall cancer detection rates were 18.7, 13.8, 8.0 and 38.1%, respectively, and the detection rates for Gleason score (GS) ≥7 cancer were 1.3, 0, 4.0 and 0%, respectively. The NPVs for all cancers were 81.3, 86.2, 92.0, and 61.9, and for GS ≥7 cancer they were 98.7, 100, 96.0 and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions

A negative prebiopsy mpMRI confers an overall NPV of 82% on 12‐core biopsy for all cancer and 98% for GS ≥7 cancer. Based on biopsy indication, these findings assist in prebiopsy risk stratification for detection of high‐risk disease and may provide guidance in the decision to pursue biopsy.
Intraplate uplift: new constraints on the Hoggar dome from the Illizi basin (Algeria)
Authors: English Kara L. , Redfern Jonathan , Bertotti Giovanni , English Joseph M. , Yahia Cherif Rachida
Published: January 2016

Zones of anomalously high topography within continental interiors, distant from active plate boundaries, are interpreted as being either dynamically supported by viscous flow in the underlying mantle or influenced by plate tectonics. Constraining the models of their genesis requires accurate data on the timing and dimensions of such features. New apatite fission‐track and thermal maturity data from the Illizi Basin in Algeria quantify the magnitude and timing of kilometre–scale uplift and exhumation of the northern flank of the Hoggar swell in North Africa. The findings of this study, integrated with previously published thermochronological data, confirm that long‐wavelength regional uplift occurred during the Cenozoic extending over a distance in excess of 1500 km from north to south. The uplift, centred on the Hoggar Massif, significantly impacted the flanking Illizi and Tim Mersoï basins. The combination of thermal history modelling and regional stratigraphic observations indicates that the onset of exhumation of the Illizi Basin likely occurred during the Eocene, broadly coincident with magmatism on the Hoggar Massif to the south and the onset of tectonic shortening in the Atlasic belt to the north.
Ligature induced peri‐implantitis: tissue destruction and inflammatory progression in a murine model
Authors: Nguyen Vo Trang N. , Hao Jia , Chou Josh , Oshima Masamitsu , Aoki Kazuhiro , Kuroda Shinji , Kaboosaya Boosana , Kasugai Shohei
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate tissue destruction and inflammatory progression of ligature‐induced peri‐implantitis in mice and to establish an alternative murine model of peri‐implantitis.

Material and methods

Sixty male C57BL/6NCrSlc mice (4‐week‐old) were used and the maxillary right first molars were extracted. Eight weeks after extraction, custom‐made pure titanium machined screw type implants (0.8 × 1.5 mm) were placed, one implant per animal. Four weeks later, 5‐0 silk ligatures were applied around implant necks to induce peri‐implantitis. Animals were sacrificed at 0 (before ligature), 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after ligature. Half of the samples were analyzed radiologically and histologically to measure bone level change, osteoclast number, density, and distribution. The rest of the samples was used to determine the relative mRNA expression levels of IL‐1 and TNF‐α with RT‐PCR analysis.

Results

Bone levels at all sites (buccal, palatal, mesial, distal) decreased 40–50% significantly 28 days after ligature (P < 0.01). Osteoclast number at all post‐ligature time points increased significantly (P < 0.05). However, their density at day 28 decreased significantly compared to that of day 21 (P < 0.05). Accordingly, IL‐1 and TNF‐α mRNA expression increased significantly at the early time points but decreased significantly at day 28 after ligature (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Inflammatory response followed by significant peri‐implant bone resorption suggested 28 days ligation is sufficient to successfully induce peri‐implantitis in the current mice model. This model might open a new avenue to study the pathogenesis and mechanism of peri‐implantitis.
Visual distraction in cytopathology: should we be concerned?
Authors: Evered A. , Walker D. , Watt A. , Perham N.
Published: January 2016

Objective

Visual distraction in cytopathology has not been investigated previously as a source of diagnostic error, presumably because the viewing field of a conventional light microscope is considered to be large enough to minimise interference from peripheral visual stimuli. Virtual microscopy, which involves the examination of digitised images of pathology specimens on computer screens, is beginning to challenge the central role of light microscopy as a diagnostic tool in cytopathology. The relatively narrow visual angle offered by virtual microscopy makes it conceivable that users of these systems will be more vulnerable to visual interference. Using a variant of a visual distraction paradigm (the Eriksen flanker task), the aim of this study was to determine whether the accuracy and speed of the interpretation of cells on a central target screen are affected by images of cells and text displayed on neighbouring monitors under realistic reading room conditions.

Methods

Following a brief period of training, 31 cytology novices undertook four cell interpretation tests under different conditions of visual distraction. Error rates were measured under each condition.

Results

There was no effect of visual distraction on diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions

To the extent that the results from cytology novices extend to experienced practitioners, visual distraction is an unlikely source of error in virtual microscopy. Efficient visual selection and spatial attention, coupled with the high perceptual load of target images and the peripheral location of distractors, provide plausible explanations for the observed results.
Safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of BI 135585, a selective 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase‐1 (HSD1) inhibitor in humans: liver and adipose tissue 11β‐HSD1 inhibition after acute and multiple administrations over 2 weeks
Authors: Freude S. , Heise T. , Woerle H.‐J. , Jungnik A. , Rauch T. , Hamilton B. , Schölch C. , Huang F. , Graefe‐Mody U.
Published: January 2016

Aims

To assess the safety and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of BI 135585, a selective 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase‐1 (11β‐HSD1) inhibitor, after single‐ and repeated‐dose administration.

Methods

The single‐dose study included open‐label administration of 200 mg BI 135585 in healthy volunteers, while in the multiple‐dose study, we carried out randomized, double‐blind administration of 5–200 mg BI 135585 or placebo once daily over 14 days in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Assessments included 11β‐HSD1 inhibition in the liver (urinary tetrahydrocortisol (THF)/tetrahydrocotisone (THE) ratio) and in subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) ex vivo and determination of hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis hormone levels.

Results

No major safety issues occurred with BI 135585 administration. The HPA axis was mildly activated with slightly increased, but still normal adrenocorticotropic hormone levels, increased total urinary corticoid excretion but unchanged plasma cortisol levels. After multiple doses of 5–200 mg BI 135585, exposure (area under the curve) increased dose‐proportionally and half‐life was 55–65 h. The urinary THF/THE ratio decreased, indicating liver 11β‐HSD1 inhibition. Median 11β‐HSD1 enzyme inhibition in the AT reached 90% after a single dose of BI 135585, but was low (31% or lower) after 14 days of continuous treatment.

Conclusions

BI 135585 was safe and well tolerated over 14 days and can be dosed once daily. Future studies are required to clarify the therapeutic potential of BI 135585 in view of its effects on 11β‐HSD1 inhibition in AT after single and multiple doses. Enzyme inhibition in the AT was not adequately predicted by the urinary THF/THE ratio.
Plasma suPAR is lowered by smoking cessation: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Eugen‐Olsen Jesper , Ladelund Steen , Sørensen Lars Tue
Published: January 2016

Background

Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a stable inflammatory biomarker. In patients, suPAR is a marker of disease presence, severity and prognosis. In the general population, suPAR is predictive of disease development, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease and, in smokers, predictive of long‐term lung cancer development. Whether smoking cessation impacts the suPAR level is unknown.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight smokers were randomized into three groups of 16: (i) continued to smoke 20 cigarettes per day, (ii) refrained from smoking and used transdermal nicotine patches and (iii) refrained from smoking and used placebo patches. Nonsmokers were included for comparison. suPAR and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured by ELISA.

Results

At baseline, the suPAR level was significantly higher in the 48 smokers (median 3·2 ng mL, IQR (2·5–3·9)) than in 46 never smokers (1·9 ng/mL (1·7–2·2)). In smokers randomized to smoking cessation, suPAR levels after 4 weeks of stopping were decreased and no longer significantly different from the never smokers values. SuPAR decreased in both those who received a placebo as well as nicotine patch. Interestingly, those with the highest suPAR level at time of smoking were also those with the highest level of suPAR after smoking cessation. In contrast, smoking or smoking cessation had no influence on CRP levels.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the suPAR level may aid to personalize the risk of smoking by identifying those smokers with the highest risk of developing disease and who may have the most benefit of smoking cessation.
Trends in the prevalence of traumatic crown injuries and associated factors in Brazilian preschool children: 10‐year observational data
Authors: Tello Gustavo , Bonini Gabriela Cunha , Murakami Christiana , Abanto Jenny , Oliveira Luciana Butini , Bönecker Marcelo
Published: January 2016

Objective

To assess trends in the prevalence of traumatic crown injuries (TCI) in children aged 1–4 years living in Diadema city (Brazil) and to investigate whether TCI were associated with socio‐demographic and clinical variables.

Methods

Six cross‐sectional surveys with representative samples were carried out from 2002 to 2012 following the same criteria and methodology. A total of 6389 children were evaluated and systematically selected on the National Children's Vaccination day. Calibrated examiners performed the children's oral examination for TCI according to Andreasen's criteria. Chi‐square test for trends was used to perform comparative analysis. Poisson regression was used to associate TCI to socio‐demographic and clinical variables.

Results

The prevalence of TCI in 2002 for preschool children aged 1, 2, 3 and 4 years was 4.5%, 11.4%, 14% and 13.9%, respectively, and the prevalence in 2012 for the same age groups was 10.4%, 15.9%, 25.7% and 28.1%, respectively. There was a significant increase in the prevalence of TCI for all age groups and for the total sample (P < 0.05). Children's age was associated with TCI in all the surveys. Male gender, presence of anterior open bite and inadequate lip coverage were associated with TCI in some surveys along the years (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study has shown an increase of TCI prevalence in Brazilian preschool children in the last 10 years and its association with children's age, male gender, presence of anterior open bite and inadequate lip coverage. However, this increase does not seem to be relevant to decisions on public policy.
Individual risk factors associated with general unintentional injuries and the relationship to traumatic dental injuries among children aged 0–15 years in the Swedish BITA study
Authors: Oldin Anna , Lundgren Jesper , Norén Jörgen G. , Robertson Agneta
Published: January 2016

Aim

To investigate general unintentional injuries (GUI) and traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in relation to behavioral and psychosocial strengths and difficulties among Swedish children aged 0–17 years, and to investigate general unintentional injuries in relation to temperament and socioeconomic status among the same children.

Subjects and methods

The study included 2363 children in four different age cohorts aged 3, 7, 11, and 15 years at the study start. Twelve Public Dental Service clinics in Sweden participated, representing different types of demographic areas, both rural and urban. Data were collected from parents and children through an interview, questionnaires, and dental records.

Results

Twenty‐four percentage (24%) of the children had experienced a serious general unintentional injury (GUI) at some point during their lifetime up until 3 months prior to the study start. Children who were regarded by their parents as being injured more often than other children also had occasions with general unintentional injuries to a greater extent. Most general unintentional injuries occurred at home. Children with incidents of general unintentional injuries had occasions with TDI to a greater extent than children without general unintentional injury. Children, whose mothers had 11 years of school/education or less, were involved in more general unintentional injuries during the 3‐month period prior to the study start, compared to children of mothers with higher education level.

Conclusions

Children with general unintentional injuries had more traumatic dental injuries. Children who were assessed by their parents as being injured more often than other children also had occasions with general unintentional injuries to a greater extent. Temperament, behavioral and psychosocial strengths and difficulties had different impacts at different ages for experiencing a general unintentional injury.
The maintenance of bastard children in London, 1790–1834
Authors: WILLIAMS SAMANTHA
Published: January 2016

This article examines the dynamics of the maintenance of illegitimate children inLondon during the protracted ‘crisis’ of the old poor law between the 1790s and the 1830s. This was a period of rapidly rising illegitimacy as well as national, and metropolitan, poor law expenditure. The affiliation system offered parish officials a parallel system by which poor rates could be deflated, but analysis of the 1834TownQueries reveals that metropolitan parishes could be particularly poor at recovering the costs of chargeable bastards from putative fathers. The article interrogates in detail the workings of the affiliation system inSouthwark andLambeth in terms of the proportion of fathers (and mothers) who paid maintenance for their children, either in lump sums or in weekly allowances, plus the associated costs of childbirth and legal fees, the range of weekly sums, which could be higher than previously thought, and the duration for which they were paid, which could be surprisingly long. The article reveals a complex system, variable at the parochial and regional level, as was the wider old poor law.
In situ near‐tip normal strain evolution of a growing fatigue crack
Authors: Zhu M.‐L. , Lu Y.‐W. , Lupton C. , Tong J.
Published: January 2016

Normal strains near a growing fatigue crack have been studied in situ using the Digital Image Correlation technique in a compact tension specimen of stainless steel 316L under tension–tension cyclic loading. An error analysis of the measured displacements and strains has been carried out, and the results show that the precisions of displacements and strains in the direction perpendicular to the crack plane and ahead of the crack are better than those parallel to the crack plane and in the wake of the crack. The errors in the measured displacements are in the range of 0.06 to 0.1 µm and between 0.2% and 0.4% for the measured strains, the latter are well below the critical strain at the onset of crack growth about 8%. Strain ratchetting was found ahead of the growing fatigue crack tip, albeit very close to the crack tip.
Biogeography of small odontocetes in relation to wide‐scale oceanographic structure in theNorthPacificOcean
Authors: Kanaji Yu , Okazaki Makoto , Watanabe Hikaru , Miyashita Tomio
Published: January 2016

Information regarding the distributional patterns of top predators is undoubtedly important for the monitoring and management of marine ecosystems. Nevertheless, previous knowledge on the distributional patterns of cetacean species in relation to physical oceanography is usually limited to a small fraction of each species' range because of their vast distribution and infrequency of encountering many species. We carried out comprehensive analyzes on the distributions of small odontocetes covering almost the entire North Pacific Ocean. Using data from over 300 000 nautical miles (≈ 555 600 km) of dedicated sighting surveys and 7000 school sightings of 14 small odontocete species, which have accumulated for approximately a quarter of a century, we describe interspecific habitat differences in small odontocetes with respect to physical oceanography. Multivariate analyzes were used to discriminate the 14 species into four ecological groups: (i) Subtropical Domain species; (ii) Subarctic Boundary species; (iii) Transitional Domain species; and (iv) Subarctic Domain species. By comparing environmental variables in their habitats with variables indicative of water mass and frontal structures, the four species groups were further divided into several subgroups. Groups at higher latitudes comprised fewer species than those at lower latitudes, while species diversity was maximal at lower and intermediate latitudes. Our findings indicate that large‐scale oceanographic structures are important determinants for the present patterns in biogeography and species diversity of small odontocetes.
Interannual differences in growth and hatch‐date distributions of early juvenile European anchovy in the Bay of Biscay: implications for recruitment
Authors: Aldanondo Naroa , Cotano Unai , Goikoetxea Nerea , Boyra Guillermo , Ibaibarriaga Leire , Irigoien Xabier
Published: January 2016

In order to understand better the recruitment variability in European anchovy in the Bay of Biscay, it is important to investigate the processes that affect survival during the early life stages. Anchovy juvenile growth trajectories and hatch‐date distributions were inferred over a 3‐year period based on otolith microstructure analysis. Otolith growth trajectories showed a characteristic shape depending on their hatch‐date timing. Earlier‐born juveniles had notably broader maximum increments than later born conspecifics, resulting in higher growth rates. This observation suggests that early hatching would be beneficial for larval and juvenile growth, and, therefore, survival. The estimated juvenile hatch‐date distributions were relatively narrow compared with the extended anchovy spawning season (March–August) in the Bay of Biscay and indicated that only individuals originated mainly from the summer months (June–August) survived until autumn. Hatch‐date distributions were markedly different among years and seemed to influence the interannual recruitment strength of anchovy. We conclude that years characterized by juvenile survivors originating from the peak spawning period (May and June) would lead to considerable recruitment success. Downwelling events during the peak spawning period seem to affect larval survival. Furthermore, size‐dependent overwinter mortality would be an additional process that regulates recruitment strength in the anchovy population in the Bay of Biscay.
Go with the flow: the movement behaviour of fish from isolated waterhole refugia during connecting flow events in an intermittent dryland river
Authors: Marshall Jonathan C. , Menke Norbert , Crook David A. , Lobegeiger Jaye S. , Balcombe Stephen R. , Huey Joel A. , Fawcett James H. , Bond Nick R. , Starkey Alisa H. , Sternberg David , Linke Simon , Arthington Angela H.
Published: January 2016

In many intermittent, dryland rivers, fish are confined to isolated waterholes for much of the year. It is only during brief flow events, which typify the hydrology of these systems, that fish are able to move between waterholes and explore surrounding habitat. Because most of the river channel will dry afterwards, there is a strong advantage for selection of persistent waterholes.

Two hundred and fifteen individual fish of three common large‐bodied species were tagged in two isolated waterholes in the Moonie River (Queensland, Australia) over 3 years. Their movements were monitored to identify the flow events that trigger fish movement between waterholes, differences in response among species and size classes and refuge selection preferences.

Some individuals of all species moved during flow events and others remained within the same waterhole. There was no clear upstream or downstream preference, and most individuals used a reach of up to 20 km, although some individuals ranged over more than 70 km in only several days. Above a threshold flow of 2 m above commence‐to‐flow level, timing of flow was more important than magnitude, with most movement occurring in response to the first post‐winter flow event, independent of its magnitude and duration. Many of the fish that moved displayed philopatry and subsequently returned to their starting waterhole either by the end of a flow event or on subsequent events, suggesting ability to navigate and a preference for more permanent refuge pools. Maximising survival in a highly variable environment provides a plausible mechanism for maintaining these behaviours.

Modifications to both flow regime and hydrological connectivity may reduce movement opportunities for fish in intermittent rivers. Our findings show that fish in intermittent systems use networks of waterholes and that management and conservation strategies should aim to maintain movement opportunities at large spatial scales to preserve population resilience.
Cenchrus biflorus Roxb. (Indian sandbur), a blessing or curse in arid ecosystems: a review
Authors: Peerzada A. M. , Naeem M. , Ali H. H. , Tanveer A. , Javaid M. M. , Chauhan B. S.
Published: January 2016

Although a widely used forage plant in arid areas, Cenchrus biflorus is viewed by many scientists as an invasive weed that has a serious negative impact on agriculture and biodiversity in arid and semi‐arid environments. It has risen from insignificance as a forage and famine cereal crop to its recent status as one of the most economically destructive weeds in many regions of the world. Numerous features like high nutritional value, prolific seed production, tolerance to high temperature and prolonged drought conditions contributed greatly towards its success as a potential forage species in arid environments. But, evidence from agriculturalists shows that it is a destructive invader which disrupts cultural practices and reduces natural biodiversity. Unfortunately, limited knowledge is available about its ecology and management in natural habitats and agro‐ecosystems. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of its ecology, biology, agricultural impact, management and utilization. This review also provides future directions for research on C. biflorus in arid environments.
Association between tooth loss and medical costs related to stroke in healthy older adults aged over 75 years in Japan
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Sato Misuzu , Yoshihara Akihiro , Ansai Toshihiro , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: January 2016

Aim

Growing evidence suggests that tooth loss is associated with increased risk of stroke. In the current study, we investigated cumulative medical costs related to stroke using data from the Advanced Elderly Medical Service System. We hypothesized that tooth loss was associated with an increase in medical costs related to stroke among older Japanese adults.

Methods

A total of 273 Japanese adults aged 80 years were enrolled in the current study. Baseline medical and dental examinations were carried out in June 2008. Medical care use and costs were monitored by linkage with National Health Insurance claim files from baseline to the end of February 2011. Medical costs related to stroke per month were calculated and examined for any association with the baseline number of remaining teeth using a linear regression model with robust standard errors.

Results

A total of 19 individuals were admitted to hospital for stroke during the follow‐up period. A significant negative association was found between the number of teeth and medical costs related to stroke per month. The regression coefficients of the number of teeth in relation to medical costs related to stroke was −248 (95% CI −438 to −58, P = 0.011) in the crude model and −226 (95% CI −413 to −38, P = 0.018) after adjusting for other confounders.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present study, the reported findings suggest an independent relationship of tooth loss with increase in medical cost related to stroke among older Japanese adults. Further studies are necessary to substantiate these findings. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 202–210.
Relationship between built environment attributes and physical function in Japanese community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Soma Yuki , Tsunoda Kenji , Kitano Naruki , Jindo Takashi , Tsuji Taishi , Saghazadeh Mahshid , Okura Tomohiro
Published: January 2016

Aim

To explore the relationships between the built environment and older adults’ physical function.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional study carried out in 2010–2012 used data drawn from 509 community‐dwelling older adults aged 65–86 years living in Kasama City, a Japanese rural region. We evaluated physical function with the following performance tests: grip strength, sit‐to‐stand, timed up & go and walking speed. Using geographic information systems, we measured population density and the number of destinations related to daily life, community centers, medical facilities and recreational facilities within participants’ neighborhoods.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, we found lower population density was related to poor performance of sit‐to‐stand and walking speed in both sexes, and grip strength in women (trend P < 0.05). A lower number of daily life‐related destinations was related to poor performance of sit‐to‐stand and walking speed in men, and grip strength and sit‐to‐stand in women. Similarly, the number of community centers was related to walking speed in both sexes. The number of medical and recreational facilities was also related to some physical performance in both sexes. A lower land use mix score, calculated by principal component analysis, was related to lower performance of sit‐to‐stand and walking speed in men, and grip strength and sit‐to‐stand in women.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that, although there are some sex differences, low population density, land use mix, and fewer daily life‐related destinations, community centers, medical facilities and recreational facilities are negative determinants of physical function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 382–390.
Prevalence of sarcopenia in older Brazilians: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Diz Juliano Bergamaschine Mata , Leopoldino Amanda Aparecida Oliveira , Moreira Bruno de Souza , Henschke Nicholas , Dias Rosangela Correa , Pereira Leani Souza Máximo , Oliveira Vinicius Cunha
Published: January 2016

Aim

Sarcopenia is the age‐related loss of muscle mass and function that evolves into disability, loss of independence and death. In Brazil the number of older people is rapidly growing, resulting in an increased prevalence of chronic conditions associated with old age. As prevalence estimates provide essential information to policymakers when developing healthcare strategies, this systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of sarcopenia in older Brazilians.

Methods

Electronic database searches and hand‐searching in relevant journals and reference lists were carried out without language restriction. Studies that reported the prevalence of sarcopenia in Brazilians aged 60 years or older were considered for inclusion. Sarcopenia was defined as low muscle mass, low muscle function or low muscle mass and function. Meta‐analysis was carried out using a random‐effects model.

Results

A total of 31 studies were included pooling 9416 participants. The overall prevalence of sarcopenia in older Brazilians was 17.0% (95% CI 13.0–22.0). Sensitivity analysis showed rates of 20.0% (95% CI 11.0–32.0) in women and 12.0% (95% CI 9.0–16.0) in men. Prevalence was 16.0% (95% CI 12.0–23.0) based on low muscle mass and function; and 17.0% (95% CI 9.0–31.0) based only on low muscle mass. The difference between these two criteria was not significant (P = 0.96).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia is an emerging public health issue in Brazil. Attention should be paid to changes in prevalence rates over the next years because of the increase in the older population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 5–16.