bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ungulates increase forest plant species richness to the benefit of non‐forest specialists
Authors: Boulanger Vincent , Dupouey Jean‐Luc , Archaux Frédéric , Badeau Vincent , Baltzinger Christophe , Chevalier Richard , Corcket Emmanuel , Dumas Yann , Forgeard Françoise , Mårell Anders , Montpied Pierre , Paillet Yoan , Picard Jean‐François , Saïd Sonia , Ulrich Erwin
Published: September 2017

Large wild ungulates are a major biotic factor shaping plant communities. They influence species abundance and occurrence directly by herbivory and plant dispersal, or indirectly by modifying plant‐plant interactions and through soil disturbance. In forest ecosystems, researchers’ attention has been mainly focused on deer overabundance. Far less is known about the effects on understory plant dynamics and diversity of wild ungulates where their abundance is maintained at lower levels to mitigate impacts on tree regeneration. We used vegetation data collected over 10 years on 82 pairs of exclosure (excluding ungulates) and control plots located in a nation‐wide forest monitoring network (Renecofor). We report the effects of ungulate exclusion on (i) plant species richness and ecological characteristics, (ii) and cover percentage of herbaceous and shrub layers. We also analyzed the response of these variables along gradients of ungulate abundance, based on hunting statistics, for wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus) and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Outside the exclosures, forest ungulates maintained higher species richness in the herbaceous layer (+15%), while the shrub layer was 17% less rich, and the plant communities became more light‐demanding. Inside the exclosures, shrub cover increased, often to the benefit of bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.). Ungulates tend to favour ruderal, hemerobic, epizoochorous and non‐forest species. Among plots, the magnitude of vegetation changes was proportional to deer abundance. We conclude that ungulates, through the control of the shrub layer, indirectly increase herbaceous plant species richness by increasing light reaching the ground. However, this increase is detrimental to the peculiarity of forest plant communities and contributes to a landscape‐level biotic homogenization. Even at population density levels considered to be harmless for overall plant species richness, ungulates remain a conservation issue for plant community composition.
Effect of radiosynoviorthesis on the progression of arthropathy and haemarthrosis reduction in haemophilic patients
Authors: Querol‐Giner M. , Pérez‐Alenda S. , Aguilar‐Rodríguez M. , Carrasco J. J. , Bonanad S. , Querol F.
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Repeated haemarthrosis is widely accepted as the triggering cause of synovitis and haemophilic arthropathy. A first‐line treatment of chronic synovitis is radiosynoviorthesis (RS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the RS effects on the progression of arthropathy and on a reduction in bleeding in patients with haemophilia.

Methods

An observational‐retrospective study was performed. Bleeding episodes in the 12 months following and in the 12 months preceding RS was compared. The arthropathy was clinically and radiologically analysed by age range, joint and subject, comparing those undergoing RS (Radiosynoviorthesis Group, RSG) against those not undergoing this treatment (Non‐Radiosynoviorthesis Group, Non‐RSG).

Results

One hundred and seventy‐four RS were performed in 71 patients (90Y in Knees and 186Re in elbows/ankles/shoulder). RS resulted in significant reduction in bleeding (582 preintervention and 168 postintervention, P < .001). In general, the level of arthropathy measured clinically and radiologically was greater with age increase in both groups (RSG and Non‐RSG), especially in the 25‐40 age range. A significant increase (P < .05) in the progression of arthropathy was also observed, both globally by patient and specifically for each joint, in non‐RSG and RSG group.

Conclusion

RS is an effective method to reduce the number of haemarthrosis episodes in chronic synovitis. Moreover, RS can positively affect arthropathy by slowing down its progression. However, the results obtained suggest that arthropathy may be conditioned by the subject's age, regardless of whether or not the joint has undergone RS.
Use of space and dispersal ability of a flagship saproxylic insect: a telemetric study of the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus) in a relict lowland forest
Authors: Tini Massimiliano , Bardiani Marco , Chiari Stefano , Campanaro Alessandro , Maurizi Emanuela , Toni Ilaria , Mason Franco , Audisio Paolo A. , Carpaneto Giuseppe M.
Published: September 2017

The stag beetle, Lucanus cervus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Coleoptera: Lucanidae), is a flagship species for the conservation of European old‐growth forests. Despite its popularity and many studies conducted, the lack of knowledge of its habits and ecological requirements leads to difficulties in locating the species in the field and to provide information for suitable planning conservation actions suitable for the species.

In order to gather information on dispersal ability and space use, a radio‐telemetry study was conducted in a relict floodplain forest surrounded by intensively cultivated land. During 2014 and 2015, from May to July, 55 beetles (34 males, 21 females) were radio‐tagged, and 9 of these (7 males, 2 females) were telemetered immediately after the emergence from their development sites, by means of emergence traps.

The use of radio‐telemetry allowed to detect the oviposition sites and to study the first part of the adult life, when they resulted to be more active. Males were more prone to disperse than females but the home range size did not differ between the sexes. Dividing the season in three intervals, the most active individuals were recorded during the first and the second ones (first and second half of June).
Comparative analysis of the biological effects of the endodontic bioactive cements MTA‐Angelus, MTA Repair HP and NeoMTA Plus on human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Tomás‐Catalá C. J. , Collado‐González M. , García‐Bernal D. , Oñate‐Sánchez R. E. , Forner L. , Llena C. , Lozano A. , Castelo‐Baz P. , Moraleda J. M. , Rodríguez‐Lozano F. J.
Published: September 2017

Aim

To evaluate the biological effects in vitro of MTA‐Angelus (MTA‐Ang; Angelus, Londrina, PR, Brazil), MTA Repair HP (MTA‐HP; Angelus) and NeoMTA Plus (NeoMTA‐P; Avalon Biomed Inc, Bradenton, FL, USA) on human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs).

Methodology

Cell viability and cell migration assays were performed using eluates of each material. To evaluate cell morphology and cell attachment to the different materials, hDPSCs were directly seeded onto the material surfaces and analysed by immunocytofluorescence and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The chemical composition of the materials was determined by energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), and eluates were analysed by inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). Statistical analysis was performed with the analysis of variance and Bonferroni or Tukey post‐test (α < 0.05).

Results

Undiluted MTA‐Ang, MTA‐HP and NeoMTA‐P displayed a significant increase in cell viability greater than that obtained using complete medium alone (control) (*P < 0.05; **P < 0.01; ***P < 0.001). Moreover, a cell migration assay revealed cell migration rates after incubation with extracts of MTA‐Ang, MTA‐HP and NeoMTA‐P that were similar to levels obtained in the control group. In addition, stretched cytoskeletal F‐actin fibres were detected in the cells treated with the three material extracts. SEM studies revealed a high degree of cell proliferation and attachment on all three materials. EDX analysis demonstrated similar weight percentages of C, O and Ca in all three materials, whilst other elements such as Al, Si and S were also found.

Conclusions

MTA‐Ang, MTA‐HP and NeoMTA‐P were associated with biological effects on hDPSCs in terms of cell proliferation, morphology, migration and attachment.
Rare disease registries: a call to action
Authors: Lacaze Paul , Millis Nicole , Fookes Megan , Zurynski Yvonne , Jaffe Adam , Bellgard Matthew , Winship Ingrid , McNeil John , Bittles Alan H.
Published: September 2017

When registries collect accurate clinical data over time, they can act as fundamental support structures for patients and their families and powerful cost‐effective instruments to support clinical trials and translational research to improve quality of care, quality of life and survival. Registries are critical for rare diseases (RD) with low prevalence and propensity for variation in treatment and outcomes. Rare Voices Australia is leading a call for action to the research and clinical community to prioritise RD data collection and develop an integrated RD Registry strategy for Australia. Financial, operational and governance challenges exist for establishing and maintaining RD registries. As a multidisciplinary team whose interests converge on RD, we highlight the need for the establishment of an Australian RD Registry Alliance. This ‘umbrella’ organisation will: (i) bring together existing RD registries across Australia; (ii) establish National RD Registry Standards to support interoperability and cohesion across registries; (iii) develop strategies to attract sustainable funding from government and other sources to maximise the utility of existing RD registries and support the development of new RD registries. The most important role for the Alliance would be to use the RD registries for translational research to address current knowledge gaps about RD and to improve the care for the over 1.4 million Australians estimated to live with RD.
Primary percutaneous coronary intervention for inferior ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction in a patient supported by the HeartWare left ventricular assist device
Authors: Spina Roberto , Siriwardena Maithri , Bart Nicole , Namasivayam Mayooran , Connellan Mark , Jansz Paul , Spratt Philip , Hayward Christopher S. , Kotlyar Eugene , Gunalingam Brendan
Published: September 2017

A 63‐year‐old man with an ischaemic cardiomyopathy, supported by the HeartWare left ventricular assist device (LVAD), presented with ventricular tachycardia and inferior ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with associated acute right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. He underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention with balloon angioplasty and placement of three drug‐eluting stents in the proximal‐to‐mid right coronary artery. Post‐procedure, ventricular arrhythmias abated, RV systolic dysfunction resolved and RV size normalised. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) facilitated by the use of miniaturised percutaneous LVAD has become an increasingly available treatment option for high‐risk patients. PCI in patients on established full mechanical circulatory support is not a common occurrence. Indeed, to our knowledge, this is the first case of primary percutaneous coronary intervention on an LVAD‐supported heart reported in the medical literature. The case raises several specific issues that are of peculiar interest to clinicians involved in the care of patients supported by mechanical assist devices who experience an acute coronary syndrome requiring emergent revascularisation.
Cognitive challenges to minimising low value care
Authors: Scott Ian A.
Published: September 2017

Clinical decisions often rely on pattern recognition, simple rules of thumb, tacit knowledge and habit. In many instances, such intuitive decisions are fast and accurate, but they can be subject to cognitive biases leading to delivery of care of low value at odds with scientific evidence of best practice. If programmes, such as EVOLVE (Evaluating Evidence, Enhancing Efficiencies) and Choosing Wisely are to have maximal impact in minimising low value care, such biases, and the factors that hide and accentuate them, need to be exposed and addressed in a collegiate and non‐judgemental manner.
Mandatory reporting by doctors of medically unsafe drivers is unpopular and poorly adhered to: a survey of sleep physicians and electro‐physicians
Authors: Elgar Nathan J. , Smith Brian J.
Published: September 2017

Background

Medical fitness to drive is one way governments control the issuing and renewal of driving licences, and some jurisdictions demand mandatory reporting (MR) of unsafe drivers by doctors.

Aim

To determine the views, adherence rate and experiences of sleep physicians and electro‐physicians with regards to South Australia's (SA) MR law.

Methods

Self‐administered surveys were delivered by post and email to all SA Medical Board‐registered sleep physicians (n = 49) and electro‐physicians (n = 11). Twenty‐nine sleep physicians and six electro‐physicians returned surveys, giving a 61% response rate.

Results

Of the doctors, 8 agreed with MR, 19 thought reporting should be voluntary and 6 that doctors should never report. Four doctors had reported all reportable patients, five had never reported any and the rest inconsistently applied the law. MR affected doctors’ relationships with their patients as follows: 28 had experienced abuse by patients, 25 suspected patients of doctor shopping and 33 suspected patients of withholding information for fear of loss of licence. Only eight thought they were the most appropriate person to determine their patient's fitness to drive; 29 had not received any training with regards to making such determinations, yet, of these, 27 desired training.

Conclusions

Widely disliked and causing deterioration of doctor–patient relationships, the MR law is ignored by some and inconsistently applied by most of the doctors surveyed. Further clinician and community education is required regardless of whether the law is abandoned, modified or left unchanged.
Urolithiasis is associated with an increased risk of stroke: a population‐based 5‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Chou Ping‐Song , Chang Wei‐Pin , Chou Yii‐Her
Published: September 2017

Background

Epidemiological studies have reported an association between urolithiasis and cardiovascular disease. However, studies examining the risks of ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke in patients with urolithiasis are limited.

Aims and methods

By using a nationwide population database, we conducted a matched cohort study to investigate the association between urolithiasis and longitudinal risks of ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke.

Results

The urolithiasis and non‐urolithiasis cohorts included 12 979 and 64 895 patients respectively. Of these, 728 (5.6%) and 2802 (4.3%) patients in the urolithiasis and non‐urolithiasis cohorts, respectively, had a stroke during the 5‐year follow‐up period. The hazard ratio (HR) for stroke was 1.19 times higher (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10–1.29; P < 0.001) in the urolithiasis cohort than in the non‐urolithiasis cohort after adjustment for potential confounders. The risk of both ischaemic (adjusted HR = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.05–1.29) and haemorrhagic stroke (adjusted HR = 1.30; 95% CI = 1.03–1.64) remained significant in the urolithiasis cohort. Furthermore, the risk of stroke was significant in both men (adjusted HR = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.05–1.28) and women (adjusted HR = 1.26; 95% CI = 1.10–1.45). Middle‐aged (40–59 years; adjusted HR = 1.26; 95% CI = 1.10–1.45) and older (≥60 years; adjusted HR = 1.14; 95% CI = 1.03–1.27) patients had a particularly high risk of stroke.

Conclusions

The present study detected an increased risk of both ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke in patients with urolithiasis, particularly in those older than 40 years.
Fibrinogen‐like protein‐2 causes deterioration in cardiac function in experimental autoimmune myocarditis rats through regulation of programmed death‐1 and inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Zheng Zhenzhong , Yu Yinghui , Potla Ratnakar , Wu Yujing , Wu Hao
Published: September 2017

Programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) plays an important role in protecting against inflammation and myocyte damage in T‐cell‐mediated myocarditis. To understand whether fibrinogen‐like protein‐2 (FGL2) can affect the role of the PD‐1/PD‐L1 pathway in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM), we investigated cardiac function in EAM rats over‐expressing FGL2. Over‐expression of FGL2 significantly decreased PD‐1 and deteriorated cardiac function in rats with autoimmune myocarditis. Histopathology revealed increased inflammatory cell infiltrate in EAM‐FGL2 rats compared with the control groups (EAM, EAM‐GFP and NC). Notably, transcription factor forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) and retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor γt (RORγt) protein and mRNA levels were statistically (P < 0·05) increased in EAM rats. We also found that interferon‐γ, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐17 and brain natriuretic peptide levels were profoundly increased in serum of FGL2 over‐expressing EAM rats. Hence, FGL2 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune myocarditis that also involves the PD‐1/PD‐L1 pathway. Our findings may provide novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of immune‐induced heart injury.
Effects of prenatal alcohol consumption on cognitive development and ADHD‐related behaviour in primary‐school age: a multilevel study based on meconium ethyl glucuronide
Authors: Eichler Anna , Hudler Linda , Grunitz Juliane , Grimm Jennifer , Raabe Eva , Goecke Tamme W. , Fasching Peter A. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Kratz Oliver , Moll Gunther H. , Kornhuber Johannes , Heinrich Hartmut
Published: September 2017

Background

Alcohol intake during pregnancy is considered to be a risk factor for child development. Child biomarkers of intrauterine alcohol exposure have been rarely studied. We investigated whether a meconium alcohol metabolite (ethyl glucuronide, EtG) was associated with cognitive development, ADHD‐related behaviour and neurophysiological markers of attention and executive control of children at primary‐school age.

Methods

Mothers provided self‐report on prenatal alcohol consumption during their 3rd trimester. Meconium samples were collected at birth. A total of 44 children with a meconium EtG above the detection limit (≥10 ng/g) and 44 nonexposed matched controls were compared. A second threshold (≥154 ng/g) was applied to study the dose effects. When children reached primary‐school age, mothers rated ADHD‐related behaviour, child cognitive development was measured using an IQ test battery, and event‐related potentials were recorded during a cued go/nogo task.

Results

Children in both EtG‐positive groups allocated fewer attentional resources than controls to the go/nogo task (reduced P3 component in go‐trials). Children with a meconium EtG above 154 ng/g were also found to have an IQ that was six points lower than the other groups. Within the EtG ≥ 154 ng/g group, there was a positive correlation between EtG value and ADHD‐related behaviour. These significant effects were not observed in relation to the maternal self‐report data.

Conclusions

Associations between EtG and cognitive deficits, attentional resource capacity and ADHD‐related behaviour could be documented with effects that were partially dose‐dependent. In addition to maternal self‐reports, this biomarker of intrauterine alcohol exposure may be considered as a predictor of child development.
Statins for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Older Men
Authors: Orkaby Ariela R. , Gaziano J. Michael , Djousse Luc , Driver Jane A.
Published: September 2017

Background/Objectives

We sought to determine whether statin use for primary prevention is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events or mortality in older men.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Physicians’ Health Study participants.

Participants

7,213 male physicians ≥70 years without a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Measurements

Multivariable propensity score for statin use with greedy matching (1:1) to minimize confounding by indication.

Results

Median baseline age was 77 (70–102), median follow‐up was 7 years. Non‐users were matched to 1,130 statin users. Statin use was associated with an 18% lower risk of all‐cause mortality, HR 0.82 (95% CI 0.69–0.98) and non‐significant lower risk of CVD events, HR 0.86 (95% CI 0.70–1.06) and stroke, HR 0.70 (95% CI 0.45–1.09). In subgroup analyses, results did not change according to age group at baseline (70–76 or >76 years) or functional status. There was a suggestion that those >76 at baseline did not benefit from statins for mortality, HR 1.14 (95% CI 0.89–1.47), compared to those 70–76 at baseline, HR 0.83 (95% CI 0.61–1.11); however the CIs overlap between the two groups, suggesting no difference. Statin users with elevated total cholesterol had fewer major CVD events than non‐users, HR 0.68 (95% CI 0.50–0.94) and HR 1.43 (95% CI 0.99–2.07)), respectively.

Conclusions

Statin use was associated with a significant lower risk of mortality in older male physicians ≥70 and a nonsignificant lower risk of CVD events. Results did not change in those who were >76 years at baseline or according to functional status. There was a suggestion that those with elevated total cholesterol may benefit. Further work is needed to determine which older individuals will benefit from statins as primary prevention.
Nursing Home Use Across The Spectrum of Cognitive Decline: Merging Mayo Clinic Study of Aging With CMS MDS Assessments
Authors: Emerson Jane A. , Smith Carin Y. , Long Kirsten H. , Ransom Jeanine E. , Roberts Rosebud O. , Hass Steven L. , Duhig Amy M. , Petersen Ronald C. , Leibson Cynthia L.
Published: September 2017

Background/objectives

Objective, complete estimates of nursing home (NH) use across the spectrum of cognitive decline are needed to help predict future care needs and inform economic models constructed to assess interventions to reduce care needs.

Design

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Setting

Olmsted County, MN.

Participants

Mayo Clinic Study of Aging participants assessed as cognitively normal (CN), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), previously unrecognized dementia, or prevalent dementia (age = 70–89 years; N = 3,545).

Measurements

Participants were followed in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Minimum Data Set (MDS) NH records and in Rochester Epidemiology Project provider‐linked medical records for 1‐year after assessment of cognition for days of observation, NH use (yes/no), NH days, NH days/days of observation, and mortality.

Results

In the year after cognition was assessed, for persons categorized as CN, MCI, previously unrecognized dementia, and prevalent dementia respectively, the percentages who died were 1.0%, 2.6%, 4.2%, 21%; the percentages with any NH use were 3.8%, 8.7%, 19%, 40%; for persons with any NH use, median NH days were 27, 38, 120, 305, and median percentages of NH days/days of observation were 7.8%, 12%, 33%, 100%. The year after assessment, among persons with prevalent dementia and any NH use, >50% were a NH resident all days of observation. Pairwise comparisons revealed that each increase in cognitive impairment category exhibited significantly higher proportions with any NH use. One‐year mortality was especially high for persons with prevalent dementia and any NH use (30% vs 13% for those with no NH use); 58% of all deaths among persons with prevalent dementia occurred while a NH resident.

Conclusions

Findings suggest reductions in NH use could result from quality alternatives to NH admission, both among persons with MCI and persons with dementia, together with suitable options for end‐of‐life care among persons with prevalent dementia.
Structured advice provided by a dietitian increases adherence of consumers to diet and lifestyle changes and lowers blood low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol: the Increasing Adherence of Consumers to Diet & Lifestyle Changes to Lower (LDL) Cholesterol (ACT) randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sialvera T. E. , Papadopoulou A. , Efstathiou S. P. , Trautwein E. A. , Ras R. T. , Kollia N. , Farajian P. , Goumas G. , Dimakopoulos I. , Papavasiliou K. , Koutsouri A. , Zampelas A.
Published: September 2017

Background

Evidence from healthcare professionals suggest that consumer compliance to healthy diet and lifestyle changes is often poor. The present study investigated the effect of advice provided by a physician or dietitian on consumer adherence to these measures combined with consuming foods with added plant sterols (PS) with the aim of lowering low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C).

Methods

One hundred mildly‐to‐moderately hypercholesterolaemic individuals were enrolled into a parallel, randomised, placebo‐controlled study. Dietitians (dietitian group; DG) advised 50 individuals in six weekly face‐to‐face behavioural therapy sessions, whereas the other 50 received standard advice from physicians (physician group, PG). Both groups consumed foods with added PS (three servings a day) for 6 weeks. Subsequently, all individuals were followed‐up for another 6 weeks under real‐life conditions. Blood lipids were measured at baseline and weeks 6 and 12 and 3‐day diet diaries were taken at weeks 1, 6 and 12.

Results

Individuals in the DG significantly improved their dietary habits, physical activity and increased PS intake compared to the PG. After 6 weeks, LDL‐C decreased in both groups compared to baseline without any significant differences between groups. At week 12, LDL‐C was further significantly improved only in the DG (P = 0.006) compared to week 6. Total cholesterol, LDL‐C and triglycerides were significantly lower in the DG compared to the PG at week 12 after adjusting for levels at week 6 (P < 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.009, respectively).

Conclusions

Although structured counselling by dietitians and common standard advice by physicians were equally effective with respect to improving blood cholesterol after 6 weeks, dietitians were more effective in the longer‐term (i.e. 6 weeks after the end of the intervention period).
Profitability, Value, and Stock Returns in Production‐Based Asset Pricing without Frictions
Authors: BALVERS RONALD J. , GU LI , HUANG DAYONG
Published: September 2017

In a production‐based asset pricing model without adjustment costs and with decreasing returns to scale following Brock (1982), stock returns at the firm level are determined by profitability, the book‐to‐market ratio, and the change in future profitability prospects. Although firms with low book‐to‐market ratios are normally more profitable and profitable firms are predicted to have higher returns, the stylized fact that book‐to‐market ratios positively forecast returns still holds theoretically, but with specific predicted exceptions. These implications are confirmed empirically.
Does cardiovascular risk vary according to the criteria for a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome?
Authors: Ramoglu Sedef , Yoldemir Tevfik , Atasayan Kemal , Yavuz Dilek Gogas
Published: September 2017

Aim

The risk of cardiovascular disease is higher in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared to healthy individuals. Chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, hyperandrogenemia, hyperlipidemia and increased oxidative stress are known to have a role in the formation of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. The aim of our study was to evaluate if cardiovascular risk varied according to different PCOS criteria, using carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT), which is an important marker of major cardiovascular events in the later stages of life.

Methods

The study group included 52 women aged 18–35 diagnosed with PCOS, and the control group comprised 45 age‐matched healthy women. Body mass index, CIMT, fasting serum glucose and insulin levels and hormonal and lipid profiles were compared between the groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in CIMT levels between the groups. The CIMT levels in the PCOS group did not differ whether hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovary‐like appearance on ultrasound or oligo/anovulation status were present or not. Furthermore, when all cases were divided into subgroups according to BMI values, the CIMT values were similar between the groups.

Conclusion

Because PCOS and atherosclerosis both have a complex nature, it is likely that the evaluation of CIMT alone may not be sufficient to determine endothelial dysfunction in a reproductive age group.
The effect of bolus volume on laryngeal closure and UES opening in swallowing: Kinematic analysis using 320‐row area detector CT study
Authors: Shibata S. , Inamoto Y. , Saitoh E. , Kagaya H. , Aoyagi Y. , Ota K. , Akahori R. , Fujii N. , Palmer J. B. , González-Fernández M.
Published: September 2017

This study investigated the effects of three different volumes of honey‐thick liquid on the temporal characteristics of swallowing. Twenty‐six healthy subjects (15 males, 11 females) underwent 320‐row area detector CT scan while swallowing 3, 10 and 20 mL of honey‐thick liquid barium. Three‐dimensional images were created at 10 images/s. Kinematic events involving six structures (velopharynx, hyoid bone, epiglottis, laryngeal vestibule (LV), true vocal cords (TVC), upper esophageal sphincter (UES)) and timing of bolus movement were timed using frame by frame analysis. The overall sequence of events did not differ across three volumes; however, increasing bolus volume significantly changed the onset and termination of events. The bolus head reached to pharynx and esophagus earlier and the duration of bolus passing through UES was significantly longer in 10 and 20 mL compared to 3 mL (P < .05). Consequently, the onset of UES opening was significantly earlier with increased volume (P < .05). LV and TVC closure occurred later in 20 mL compared to 3 mL (P < .05). These changes in motion of pharynx and larynx appeared to promote swallow safety by preventing aspiration, suggesting that anatomical structure movements adapt in response to bolus volume. Our findings also suggest that the pharyngeal swallow behaviours may be modified by afferents in the oral cavity. The three‐dimensional visualization and quantitative measurements provided by 320‐ADCT provide essential benchmarks for understanding swallowing, both normal and abnormal.
Psychometric evaluation of a motor control test battery of the craniofacial region
Authors: von Piekartz H. , Stotz E. , Both A. , Bahn G. , Armijo‐Olivo S. , Ballenberger N.
Published: September 2017

The primary objective of this study was to determine the structural and known‐group validity as well as the inter‐rater reliability of a test battery to evaluate the motor control of the craniofacial region. Seventy volunteers without TMD and 25 subjects with TMD (Axes I) per the DC/TMD were asked to execute a test battery consisting of eight tests. The tests were video‐taped in the same sequence in a standardised manner. Two experienced physical therapists participated in this study as blinded assessors. We used exploratory factor analysis to identify the underlying component structure of the eight tests. Internal consistency (Cronbach's α), inter‐rater reliability (intra‐class correlation coefficient) and construct validity (ie, hypothesis testing‐known‐group validity) (receiver operating curves) were also explored for the test battery. The structural validity showed the presence of one factor underlying the construct of the test battery. The internal consistency was excellent (0.90) as well as the inter‐rater reliability. All values of reliability were close to 0.9 or above indicating very high inter‐rater reliability. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.93 for rater 1 and 0.94 for rater two, respectively, indicating excellent discrimination between subjects with TMD and healthy controls. The results of the present study support the psychometric properties of test battery to measure motor control of the craniofacial region when evaluated through videotaping. This test battery could be used to differentiate between healthy subjects and subjects with musculoskeletal impairments in the cervical and oro‐facial regions. In addition, this test battery could be used to assess the effectiveness of management strategies in the craniofacial region.
Transgenerational and developmental plasticity at the molecular level: Lessons from Daphnia
Authors: Bell Alison M. , Stein Laura R.
Published: September 2017

Listen to the news and you are bound to hear that researchers are increasingly interested in the biological manifestations of trauma that reverberate through the generations. Research in this area can be controversial in the public realm, provoking societal issues about personal responsibility (are we really born free or are we born with the burden of our ancestors’ experience?). It is also a touchy subject within evolutionary biology because it provokes concerns about Lamarckianism and general scepticism about the importance of extra‐genetic inheritance (Laland et al., ). Part of why the research in this area has been controversial is because it is difficult to study. For one, there is the problem of how long it takes to track changes across generations, making long‐term, multi‐generational studies especially tricky in long‐lived species. Moreover, there are presently very few (if any) known molecular mechanisms by which environmental effects can be incorporated into the genome and persist for multiple successive generations, casting doubt on their evolutionary repercussions. Fortunately, you only have to look in your local pond to find the creatures that are teaching us a great deal about how and why the experiences of parents are passed down to their offspring. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Hales et al. (Hales et al., ) illustrate the power of Daphnia (“water fleas”) for making headway in this field.
Phylogenetic relationship of Clauseneae (Rutaceae) inferred from plastid and nuclear DNA data and taxonomic implication for some major taxa
Authors: Mou Feng‐Juan , Tu Tie-Yao , Chen Yi-Zhang , Zhang Dian-Xiang
Published: September 2017

Using sequences of the nuclear ribosomal ITS region as well as the chloroplast DNA trnL‐trnF and atpB‐rbcL regions, this study aims to provide further insight into the phylogenetic relationships within Clauseneae and its relationship to Citreae (Rutaceae). Using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI), we reconstructed the phylogeny of Clauseneae based on trnL‐F, atpB‐rbcL and ITS sequences. Our data matrix contained 91 accessions, representing 72 species and varieties from 31 genera and two outgroups, including new and extensive sampling of species and varieties representing four genera in the tribe Clauseneae. In the subfamily Aurantioideae, six major clades were resolved with strong support: 1) Micromelum clade: Micromelum; 2) Glycosmis clade: Glycosmis; 3) Bergera clade: Murraya sect. Bergera; 4) Clausena clade: Clausena; 5) Murraya clade: Murraya sect. Murraya + Merrillia; 6) Citreae clade: Citreae. Micromelum, Glycosmis, Clausena and Merrillia were confirmed as monophyletic. In contrast, Murraya s.l. was reconstructed as polyphyletic. Murraya sect. Bergera clustered with Clausena while Murraya sect. Murraya and Merrillia together formed a clade that is sister to the tribe Citreae. All members from Citreae were clustered into a natural group. The genus Micromelum was found to be primitive in this subfamily and more close to Glycosmis. Based on the phylogeny and morphological characters, we discuss the taxonomy of some members of Clauseneae and conclude that the current tribal and generic classification need further revision.
Role of microbiota in the pathogenesis of functional disorders of the lower GI tract: Work in progress
Authors: Jalanka Jonna , Spiller Robin
Published: September 2017

Functional bowel disorders affect a significant proportion of people word wide. Patients suffer from longstanding symptoms of abdominal pain or discomfort in combination with abnormal bowel habits. The evidence for role of microbiota is currently contradictory and descriptive. This review aims to summarize the reasons which include methodological differences in DNA extraction and sample handling along with other factors such as diet, prior antibiotic use and transit, all important major determinants of microbiota which are difficult to control. Randomized studies of specific intervention in which such factors are varied may improve reproducibility and consistency of findings in future research.
Pregnancy modulates the allergen‐induced cytokine production differently in allergic and non‐allergic women
Authors: Abelius Martina S. , Jedenfalk Malin , Ernerudh Jan , Janefjord Camilla , Berg Göran , Matthiesen Leif , Jenmalm Maria C.
Published: September 2017

Background

The immunological environment during pregnancy may differ between allergic and non‐allergic women. This study investigates the effect of maternal allergy on the allergen‐induced cytokine and chemokine levels and whether pregnancy modulates these immune responses differently in allergic and non‐allergic women.

Methods

The birch‐, cat‐, phytohemagglutinin‐ and tetanus toxoid‐induced interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10, IL‐13, the T‐helper 1 (Th1)‐associated chemokine CXCL10 and the Th2‐associated chemokine CCL17 levels were quantified in 20 women with allergic symptoms (sensitized, n = 13) and 36 women without allergic symptoms (non‐sensitized, n = 30) at gestational weeks 10‐12, 15‐16, 25, 35 and 2 and 12 months post‐partum.

Results

Birch‐, but not cat‐induced, IL‐5, IL‐13 and CCL17 levels were increased during pregnancy as compared to post‐partum in the sensitized women with allergic symptoms. In contrast, cat‐, but not birch‐induced, IL‐5 and IL‐13 levels were increased during pregnancy as compared to post‐partum in the non‐sensitized women without allergic symptoms. Furthermore, IFN‐γ secretion was increased in the first and decreased in the second and third trimesters in response to birch and decreased in the third trimester in response to cat as compared to post‐partum in the non‐sensitized women without allergic symptoms. Increased allergen‐induced IL‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐13 levels were associated with allergic symptoms and sensitization.

Conclusions

Pregnancy had a clear effect on the allergen‐induced IL‐5, IL‐13, CCL17, IFN‐γ and CXCL10 production, with distinct enhanced Th2‐responses to birch in the allergic group and to cat in the non‐allergic group.
Effect of traditional Chinese and Western medicine on nocturnal enuresis in children and indicators of treatment success: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ma Yanli , Liu Xiaomei , Shen Ying
Published: September 2017

Background

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a common pediatric developmental disorder. Desmopressin is frequently used for NE and is an evidence‐based therapy. Suoquan capsule is a Chinese medicine commonly used for treating NE in children but is poorly understood by most scholars.

Methods

A total of 369 children with NE were randomized to receive either suoquan, desmopressin plus suoquan, desmopressin, or behavioral intervention for 2 months, and the response rates evaluated. Subsequently, the viable demographic factors that could lead to success were investigated on logistic regression analysis. Moreover, after 3 months of follow up, the relapse rate was investigated.

Results

The complete response (CR) rate in the desmopressin plus suoquan group (37.5%) was higher than that in the behavioral intervention group (6.3%, P < 0.007). The desmopressin group had a lower CR rate (22.5%) and a higher non‐response rate (25.0%) than the desmopressin plus suoquan group (non‐response rate, 21.9%; P > 0.007). The relapse rate in the desmopressin group was significantly higher than that in the desmopressin plus suoquan group (72.2% vs. 30.6%, P < 0.007). On Multivariate analysis, treatment group, NE frequency, and age were independent predictors of CR at 2 months (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Combined traditional Chinese and Western treatment in children with NE is effective and has a low relapse rate. NE frequency, treatment method, and age are important predictive factors for CR after treatment.
Pediatric respiratory tract diseases: Chronological trends and perspectives
Authors: Ben Ayed Houda , Yaïch Sourour , Ben Jmaa Maïssa , Jedidi Jihene , Ben Hmida Mariem , Trigui Maroua , Kassis Mondher , Karray Raouf , Mejdoub Yosra , Feki Habib , Damak Jamel
Published: September 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of childhood respiratory tract diseases (RTD) in the region of Sfax, Tunisia, and to evaluate their trends over a 13 year period.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of all children hospitalized with RTD aged under 14 years. We collected data from the regional morbidity register of the university hospital of Sfax from 2003 to 2015.

Results

A total of 10 797 RTD patients were enrolled from 49 880 pediatric hospitalizations (21.7%). A male predominance was noted (60%). The median age was 8 months (IQR, 2–36 months). Acute bronchitis (AB) accounted for 53.8%, followed by asthma (15%), pneumonia (14%) and acute upper respiratory infection (AURI; 7.2%). The hospital incidence rate (HIR) of RTD was 34/10 000 inhabitants/year. It was 18.2; 5.07; 4.7 and 2.4/10 000 inhabitants for AB, asthma, pneumonia and AURI, respectively. We noted a significant increase in the HIR of RTD with an annual percentage change (APC) of 10.94% (P < 0.001); in the HIR of AB (APC, 5.27%; P < 0.001); and in asthma HIR (APC, 11.2%; P < 0.001). Otherwise, a significant decrease in AURI HIR was observed (APC, –8.8%; P < 0.001). AB lethality rate increased significantly, with an APC of 7.4% (P < 0.001). Projected trends analysis up to 2024 showed a significant rise in AB and in asthma, while AURI would significantly decrease.

Conclusions

RTD continues to be a serious health problem over time in terms of morbidity and mortality. Preventive and curative strategies are needed urgently.
Effect of different mini‐volume colloid centrifugation configurations on flow cytometrically sorted sperm recovery efficiency and quality using a computer‐assisted semen analyzer
Authors: Ferré LB , Chitwood JL , Fresno C , Ortega HH , Kjelland ME , Ross PJ
Published: September 2017

Contents

Straws of sex‐sorted sperm are usually packaged at a low concentration (e.g., ~2.1 × 106 sperm/ml) and cost significantly more than unsorted conventional semen from the same sire. In order to maximize the efficiency of using sex‐sorted sperm under in vitro fertilization conditions, the selection of an appropriate sperm separation technique is essential. In this study, the effect of using different silane‐coated silica colloid dilutions and layering configurations during centrifugation of sex‐sorted sperm was examined over an extended period of incubation time. Sperm recovery and viability after centrifugation using the colloid separation technique were measured along with several sperm motility parameters using CASA. For this purpose, frozen and thawed sex‐sorted sperm samples were centrifuged using mini‐volume single‐layer (40%, 60% and 80%) and mini‐volume two‐layer (45%/90%, 40%/80% and 30%/60%) separation configurations using PureSperm®. A single layer of 40% PureSperm®recovered significantly more sex‐sorted sperm (78.07% ± 2.28%) followed by a single layer of 80% PureSperm®(68.43% ± 2.33%). The lowest sperm recovery was obtained using a two‐layer PureSperm®dilution of 45%/90% (47.57% ± 2.33%). Single‐layer centrifugation recovered more sorted sperm (68.67% ± 1.74%) than two layer (53.74% ± 1.74%) (p < .0001). A single layer of 80% PureSperm®exhibited the highest sorted sperm viability (72.01% ± 2.90%) after centrifugation (p < .05). The mini‐volume single layer of 80% PureSperm®was determined to be an effective alternative to a two‐layer centrifugation configuration for sex‐sorted sperm selection. In addition, single‐layer colloid dilution of 80% performed either as well as or significantly outperformed the other treatments, as well as the control, with regard to motility (MOT) for all time periods of analysis.
Effect of cryoprotectants and thawing temperatures on chicken sperm quality
Authors: Miranda M , Kulíková B , Vašíček J , Olexiková L , Iaffaldano N , Chrenek P
Published: September 2017

Contents

There is need for standardization of freezing–thawing protocol for rooster semen to minimize variability among results. Therefore, we aimed to compare effect of four different permeating cryoprotectants and two thawing temperatures (37 vs. 5°C) on sperm post‐thaw motility and to analyse combined effect of the best permeating cryoprotectant (P‐CPA) with one of four non‐permeating cryoprotectants (N‐CPA) on post‐thaw quality of rooster semen evaluated in vitro. Pooled semen from Ross PM3 rooster heavy line was diluted in Kobidil extender and frozen in cryoprotectant solution containing 6% dimethylacetamide, 7.5% dimethylformamide, 9% N‐methylacetamide or 8% ethylene glycol (EG) in liquid nitrogen vapours. To determine the best thawing rate, straws were thawed either at 37 or 5°C. Furthermore, samples were frozen in the presence of the best N‐CPA either with 0.75 mol/L ficoll, 0.2 mol/L sucrose, 0.2 mol/L trehalose or 0.05 mol/L glycine. Sperm motility, membrane destabilization and viability were analysed to compare different freezing–thawing conditions. In addition, morphology and ultrastructure analysis were performed to compare fresh and frozen‐thawed sperm quality. Our results indicate that the combination of EG and the thawing at 5°C improves (p ≤ .05) sperm post‐thaw motility. Moreover, ficoll addition to EG‐based freezing extender provided additional beneficial effect (p ≤ .05) on progressive movement and apoptosis incidence. Further work should evaluate different N‐CPA concentrations to improve freezing protocol. In addition, fertility evaluation and testing on different chicken lines are needed in order to contribute to animal genetic resources bank.
The interstitial lung disease multidisciplinary meeting: A position statement from the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand and the Lung Foundation Australia
Authors: Prasad Jyotika D. , Mahar Annabelle , Bleasel Jane , Ellis Samantha J. , Chambers Daniel C. , Lake Fiona , Hopkins Peter M.A. , Corte Tamera J. , Allan Heather , Glaspole Ian N.
Published: September 2017

Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are a diverse group of pulmonary diseases for which accurate diagnosis is critical for optimal treatment outcomes. Diagnosis of ILD can be challenging and a multidisciplinary approach is recommended in international guidelines. The purpose of this position paper is to review the evidence for the use of the multidisciplinary meeting (MDM) in ILD and suggest an approach to its governance and constitution, in an attempt to provide a standard methodology that could be applied across Australia and New Zealand. This position paper is endorsed by the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) and the Lung Foundation Australia (LFA).