bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the Slovenian version of multiple sclerosis quality of life (MSQOL-54) instrument
Authors: Stern Biljana , Hojs Fabjan Tanja , Rener-Sitar Ksenija , Zaletel-Kragelj Lijana
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To cross-culturally adapt and validate Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54) instrument.

Methods

The study which enrolled 134 Slovenian multiple sclerosis (MS) patients was conducted from March to December 2013. The internal consistency of the MSQOL-54 instrument was evaluated by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α), and its dimensionality assessed by the principal component analysis (PCA).

Results

The whole instrument had high internal consistency (α=0.88), as well as the majority of its twelve subscales (α=0.83-0.94). The results of the PCA showed two components with eigenvalue greater than 1, explaining 59.4% of the cumulative variance. Further results indicated good construct validity of the instrument with the physical health-related-quality-of-life subscales loading highly on the physical component, and mental health-related-quality-of-life subscales loading highly on the mental component.

Conclusion

The Slovenian version of the MSQOL-54 instrument proved to be an internally consistent and accurate tool, well accepted by the Slovenian MS patients. The adequate psychometric properties warrant the scientifically sound version of the MSQOL-54 instrument, which is from now on at disposal to all health professionals dealing with MS patients in Slovenia.
The outcomes of pregnancy and childbirth in adolescents in Slovenia
Authors: Korenčan Simona , Pinter Bojana , Grebenc Mojca , Verdenik Ivan
Published: October 2017

Introduction

The objective of the study was to determine the course and outcomes of pregnancy and childbirth in adolescents compared to women aged 20–24 years in Slovenia.

Methods

In the retrospective study, the course of pregnancy and labour and the perinatal outcome of newborns in primiparous adolescents aged ≤19 years (study group) have been compared to the control group of primiparous women aged 20–24 years. The study group was further divided into a study subgroup of adolescents aged ≤17 years. Data were retrieved from the National Perinatal Information System in Slovenia for the period 2008–2012. Altogether, 13,663 women and their newborns were included.

Results

Adolescent pregnancy was associated with increased rates of unknown estimated date of delivery, preterm labour, low birth weight newborns, small for gestational age newborns and low gestational weight gain. Spontaneous labour was more common in adolescents, while emergency and elective Caesarean sections were less common than in women aged 20–24 years. In addition, pregnancy in adolescents aged ≤17 years was associated with increased rate of maternal anaemia and labour without complications. Higher rates of smoking, lower rates of parenting school attendance, lower rates of pregnancy check-ups and screening tests in pregnancy such as nuchal translucency in adolescents were found.

Conclusions

The results of the study show that adolescent pregnancy is related to higher health risks for pregnant adolescents and their newborns. In addition, adolescents are subject to poorer prenatal care comparing to older women.
Electrical Conductivity of Molten DyCl3-NaCl and DyCl3-KCl Systems: An Approach to Structural Interpretations of Rare Earth Chloride Melts
Authors: Iwadate Yasuhiko , Ohkubo Takahiro
Published: October 2017

Electrical conductivities (κs) of molten DyCl3-NaCl and DyCl3-KCl systems were estimated by measuring the impedances of each mixture melt at any temperature and/or frequency. The molar volumes (V
ms) were measured by dilatometry and represented as a polynomial empirical equation of temperature and composition. Due to both the properties, the molar conductivities (Λms) were calculated and their temperature and/or composition dependences were discussed from the standpoint of structural features as well. The κs increased curvilinearly with increasing temperature across the whole composition ranges. This trend was also applied to the Λms which was fitted by an Arrhenius-type equation. The relationship of Λms with melt composition was studied and the Λms were found to decrease with increasing composition of DyCl3. These findings were interpreted based on the results of structural science so far reported, and finally, the relationship between Λms and the structures of pure rare earth chloride melts was discussed.
Metal carbonyl complexes of potentially ambidentate 2,1,3-benzothiadiazole and 2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole acceptors
Authors: Plebst Sebastian , Bubrin Martina , Schweinfurth David , Záliš Stanislav , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: October 2017

The compounds [W(CO)5(btd)], [W(CO)5(bsd] and [Re(CO)3(bpy)(bsd)](BF4), btd=2,1,3-benzothiadiazole and bsd=2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole were isolated and characterized experimentally (crystal structure, spectroscopy, spectroelectrochemistry) and by density functional theory calculations. The results confirm single N-coordination in all cases, binding to Se was calculated to be less favorable. Studies of one-electron reduced forms indicate that the N-coordination is maintained during electron transfer.
Relationship Between Physiological Off-Ice Testing, On-Ice Skating, and Game Performance in Division I Female Ice Hockey Players
Authors: Boland Michelle , Delude Katie , Miele Emily M.
Published: October 2017

Boland, M, Delude, K, and Miele, EM. Relationship between physiological off-ice testing, on-ice skating, and game performance in Division I female ice hockey players. J Strength Cond Res 33(6): 1620–1629, 2019—The purpose of this study was to identify off-ice testing variables that correlate with skating and game performance in Division I collegiate female ice hockey players. Twenty female forward and defensive players (19.95 ± 1.35 years) were assessed for mass, height, percent fat mass (%FAT), bone mineral density, predicted 1 repetition maximum (RM) absolute and relative (REL%) bench press (BP) and hex bar deadlift (HDL), lower-body explosive power, anaerobic power, countermovement vertical jump, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and on-ice repeated-skate sprint (RSS) performance. The on-ice RSS test included 6 timed 85.6-m sprints with participants wearing full hockey equipment; fastest time (FT), average time (AT), and fatigue index (FI) for the first length skate (FLS; 10 m) and total length skate (TLS; 85.6 m) were used for analysis. Game performance was evaluated with game statistics: goals, assists, points, plus-minus, and shots on goal (SOG). Correlation coefficients were used to determine relationships. Percent fat mass was positively correlated (p ≤ 0.05) with FLS-FI and TLS-AT; TLS-FT was negatively correlated with REL%HDL; BP-RM was negatively correlated with FLS-FT and FLS-AT; MIP positively correlated with assists, points, and SOG; FLS-AT negatively correlated with assists. Game performance in female ice hockey players may be enhanced by greater MIP, repeat acceleration ability, and mode-specific training. Faster skating times were associated with lower %FAT. Skating performance in female ice hockey players may be enhanced by improving body composition, anaerobic power, and both lower- and upper-body strength in off-ice training.
Hydration Status and Thermoregulatory Responses in Drivers During Competitive Racing
Authors: Carlson Lara A. , Lawrence Michael A. , Kenefick Robert W.
Published: October 2017

Carlson, LA, Lawrence, MA, and Kenefick, RW. Hydration status and thermoregulatory responses in drivers during competitive racing. J Strength Cond Res 32(7): 2061–2065, 2018—Stock car drivers are exposed to high ambient temperatures, further complicated by the fact that they are encapsulated in protective clothing; however, the hydration status of these drivers has not been determined. This study quantified the degree of fluid losses during a competitive event in hot conditions. Nine male stock car drivers (29.6 ± 9.4 years, 177.8 ± 3.0 cm, 81.5 ± 18.5 kg) were studied during a Pro Series Division NASCAR race. Sweat rate (SR) and dehydration was determined through nude body weights (BWs). Prerace BW was 81.5 ± 18.5 kg and decreased to 81.1 ± 18.5 kg after race (p = 0.001). Body weight loss after race was 0.77 ± 0.3% and mean SR was 0.63 ± 0.4 L·h−1. Intestinal core temperature increased from 38.0 ± 0.4 to 38.5 ± 0.4° C after race (p = 0.001). Skin temperature increased from 35.8 ± 0.8 to 36.9 ± 0.8° C after race (p = 0.001), whereas the core-to-skin temperature gradient narrowed from 2.2 ± 0.9 to 1.6 ± 0.9° C, before race to after race (p = 0.001). Heart rates after race were 89 ± 0.0% of the drivers' age-predicted maximum heart rate (HR). Fluid losses during competitive racing can be significant. Without a fluid replacement strategy, fluid losses may exceed 3% of BW and could negatively impact driving performance in longer races.
Revisiting the Single-Visit Protocol for Determining the Electromyographic Fatigue Threshold
Authors: Khan Fatin L. , Lawal Jordan M. , Kapture Drew O. , Swingle Joseph D. , Malek Moh H.
Published: October 2017

Khan, FL, Lawal, JM, Kapture, DO, Swingle, JD, and Malek, MH. Revisiting the single-visit protocol for determining the electromyographic fatigue threshold. J Strength Cond Res 31(12): 3503–3507, 2017—The electromyographic fatigue threshold (EMGFT) has been shown to demarcate between nonfatiguing and fatiguing exercise workloads. One potential limitation of incorporating the single EMGFT test in a clinical setting is the 2-minute stage increment inherit to the protocol. In most rehabilitation clinics, time with the client is limited, and any testing procedure needs to consider this factor. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to determine whether or not the estimation of the EMGFT is influenced by reducing the incremental stage to 1-minute intervals. We hypothesized that the 1-minute incremental protocol would provide similar estimates of the EMGFT as the traditional 2-minute incremental protocol. Nine college-aged men performed the single-leg knee-extensor ergometry at 1-minute (3 W) and 2-minute (6 W) stages in random order separated by 7 days. The exercise indices and the EMGFT were determined from the 2 protocols and analyzed using a paired samples t test. The EMG amplitude was assessed from the rectus femoris muscle. The results indicated significant differences between protocols for maximal power output (1 minute: 31.7 ± 2.2 W vs. 2 minutes: 38.0 ± 3.3 W, p = 0.016) and heart rate at end exercise (1 minute: 137 ± 5 b·min–1 vs. 2 minutes: 148 ± 5 b·min–1, p = 0.024). There were, however, no significant mean differences for the EMGFT (1 minute: 19.8 ± 1.8 vs. 2 minutes: 20.3 ± 1.9 W, p = 0.63) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) for the exercised leg (1 minute: 9 ± 0 vs. 2 minutes: 9 ± 1, p = 0.68). These results indicate that reducing the exercise protocol by 50% did not change the estimated EMGFT. The practical application of this finding resides in the potential use in sports or rehabilitative settings in which there is limited time with the client and no objective measures to determine neuromuscular fatigue for aerobic exercise.
Effects of Low-Load, Higher-Repetition vs. High-Load, Lower-Repetition Resistance Training Not Performed to Failure on Muscle Strength, Mass, and Echo Intensity in Healthy Young Men: A Time-Course Study
Authors: Ikezoe Tome , Kobayashi Takuya , Nakamura Masatoshi , Ichihashi Noriaki
Published: October 2017

Ikezoe, T, Kobayashi, T, Nakamura, M, and Ichihashi, N. Effects of low-load, higher-repetition vs. high-load, lower-repetition resistance training not performed to failure on muscle strength, mass, and echo intensity in healthy young men: A time-course study. J Strength Cond Res 34(12): 3439–3445, 2020—The aim of this study was to compare the effects of low-load, higher-repetition training (LLHR) with those of high-load, lower-repetition training (HLLR) on muscle strength, mass, and echo intensity in healthy young men. Fifteen healthy men (age, 23.1 ± 2.6 years) were randomly assigned to 1 of the 2 groups: LLHR or HLLR group. Resistance training on knee extensor muscles was performed 3 days per week for 8 weeks. One repetition maximum (1RM) strength, maximum isometric strength, muscle thickness, and muscle echo intensity on ultrasonography of the rectus femoris muscle were assessed every 2 weeks. Analysis of variance showed no significant group × time interaction, and only a significant main effect of time was observed for all variables. The 8-week resistance training increased 1RM, maximum isometric muscle strength, and muscle thickness by 36.2–40.9%, 24.0–25.5%, and 11.3–20.4%, respectively, whereas it decreased echo intensity by 8.05–16.3%. Significant improvements in muscle strength, thickness, and echo intensity were observed at weeks 2, 4, and 8, respectively. The lack of difference in time-course changes between LLHR and HLLR programs suggests that low-load training can exert similar effects on muscle mass and characteristics as high-load training by increasing the number of repetitions, even when not performed to failure.
Effects of Strain Rates on the Undrained Shear Strength of Kaolin
Authors: Nanda S. , Sivakumar V. , Hoyer P. , Bradshaw A. , Gavin K. G. , Gerkus H. , Jalilvand S. , Gilbert R. B. , Doherty P. , Fanning J.
Published: October 2017

In recent times, interest in dynamically installed foundation systems for deep-sea construction has increased; however, these foundation systems are still under development and need quantification of various soil parameters with different perspectives. For the design of dynamically installed foundations, it is essential to assess the strain-rate effect on very soft soils. The T-bar has been widely used to characterize soft offshore sediments, such as silt and clay, and there is extensive existing literature on the interpretation of test results. Strain-rate dependence has not previously been fully examined for T-bar tests in very soft clay at very high rates of penetration. This paper examines this aspect using a physical model test. A 65-cm-thick kaolin clay bed was formed using vacuum consolidation. A T-bar was driven into the clay bed at rates that varied from 0.1 cm/s to 60 cm/s. The tests revealed that the resistance factor increased by 9 % for every 10-fold increase in the penetration rate for the material tested in this research.
Implementation of a Pretensioned, Fully Bonded Bolting System and Its Failure Mechanism Based on Acoustic Emission: A Laboratorial and Field Study
Authors: Feng Xiaowei , Zhang Nong , He Fengzhen , Yang Sen , Zheng Xigui
Published: October 2017

Currently, bolt-support technology is commonly applied throughout the world during mining activities, civil engineering, and hydraulic projects. The theory of a pretensioned and fully bonded bolting system has long been proposed for use as tunnel supports; however, this technology is difficult to implement in coal mining, particularly for roadways that require immediate support. In this study, a modified cement with water-to-cement ratio of 0.25 was used to work in tandem with a traditional resin cartridge to create a pretensioned, fully bonded bolting system. The fast-setting epoxy resin is positioned at the bottom of the borehole for pretension, and the cement is positioned along the rest of the borehole for full-length bonding along the bolt. Based on a series of pullout tests on the proposed bolting system with different pretension forces, this study shows that a pretensioned, fully bonded bolting system is more durable and stable than the end-encapsulated resin bolting system that is currently utilized in most of China’s coal mines. Additionally, an acoustic emission detection test was simultaneously conducted to further describe the inner fracture mechanisms of the bolting system under different pretension forces ranging from 50 to 140 kN, with an increment of 30 kN. The results of this test indicate that a higher pretension force can decrease the damage events in the bolting system. Additionally, the failure form of a pretensioned, fully bonded bolting system is more likely to be dominated by the fracture of the bolt rod in most circumstances. Finally, this combined bolting technology is successfully implemented in a coal mine, and the monitored results confirm that the proposed bolting measure is effective and reliable.
The Use of Carbonation Depth Techniques on Stabilized Peat
Authors: Duggan Alan R. , Goggins Jamie , Clifford Eoghan , McCabe Bryan A.
Published: October 2017

The phenolphthalein indicator method, the pH of slurries method, X-ray powder diffraction analysis (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are all commonly associated with evaluating the carbonation front depth in concrete. Recent research (using a closed chamber method) has indicated that stabilized peat is a net sink of carbon dioxide (CO2) (at least in the short term), as the binder takes in CO2 both from the atmosphere and any CO2 released by oxidized peat. Therefore, the application of carbonation depth techniques to stabilized peat are of interest and are explored in this paper for the first time as a precursor to developing a greater understanding of the carbonation process in this material. The carbonation fronts obtained by XRD, loss on ignition, and FTIR all arose at similar depths, as these methods all identify the depth at which the calcium carbonate concentration is elevated with respect to the baseline (i.e., the maximum advancement of the carbonation front). In contrast, the phenolphthalein method underestimated the carbonation front considerably. The pH of the stabilized peat slurries method gave the depth at which leaching of calcium hydroxide and calcium ions occurred, rather than a carbonation depth, and exceeds the depths determined from the other techniques. Advantages and disadvantages of all techniques are discussed.
Simulated Road Profiles According to ISO 8608 in Vibration Analysis
Authors: Múčka P.
Published: October 2017

Nowadays, synthetic longitudinal road profiles based on an ISO 8608 road classification are used for simulation purposes to solve various tasks in vibration analysis of mechanical and civil structures and road-vehicle-driver interaction system. Standard ISO 8608 specifies road classification of longitudinal road profiles based on vertical displacement power spectral density (PSD). PSD represented on logarithmic scales is characterized by two parameters of a straight line, an unevenness index and waviness. The aim of this study was to compare spectrum parameters of real roads with ISO 8608 road classes used in scientific papers. Road classes that were used in a sample of 27 current scientific papers were analyzed. Results often indicated marked differences among road classes used for simulation purposes in comparison to the spectrum properties of real roads. For simulation purposes, road Class A may be recommended as representative of typical good or average quality road (motorway, expressway, and first class road). Classes B and C may be appropriate to simulate low-quality paved surfaces (2nd and 3rd class roads or local highways).
The Prediction of Impact of a Looming Stimulus onto the Body Is Subserved by Multisensory Integration Mechanisms
Authors: Cléry Justine , Guipponi Olivier , Odouard Soline , Pinède Serge , Wardak Claire , Ben Hamed Suliann
Published: October 2017

In the jungle, survival is highly correlated with the ability to detect and distinguish between an approaching predator and a putative prey. From an ecological perspective, a predator rapidly approaching its prey is a stronger cue for flight than a slowly moving predator. In the present study, we use functional magnetic resonance imaging in the nonhuman primate, to investigate the neural bases of the prediction of an impact to the body by a looming stimulus, i.e., the neural bases of the interaction between a dynamic visual stimulus approaching the body and its expected consequences onto an independent sensory modality, namely, touch. We identify a core cortical network of occipital, parietal, premotor, and prefrontal areas maximally activated by tactile stimulations presented at the predicted time and location of impact of the looming stimulus on the faces compared with the activations observed for spatially or temporally incongruent tactile and dynamic visual cues. These activations reflect both an active integration of visual and tactile information and of spatial and temporal prediction information. The identified cortical network coincides with a well described multisensory visuotactile convergence and integration network suggested to play a key role in the definition of peripersonal space. These observations are discussed in the context of multisensory integration and spatial, temporal prediction and Bayesian causal inference.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTLooming stimuli have a particular ecological relevance as they are expected to come into contact with the body, evoking touch or pain sensations and possibly triggering an approach or escape behavior depending on their identity. Here, we identify the nonhuman primate functional network that is maximally activated by tactile stimulations presented at the predicted time and location of impact of the looming stimulus. Our findings suggest that the integration of spatial and temporal predictive cues possibly rely on the same neural mechanisms that are involved in multisensory integration.
The Ste20 Family Kinases MAP4K4, MINK1, and TNIK Converge to Regulate Stress-Induced JNK Signaling in Neurons
Authors: Larhammar Martin , Huntwork-Rodriguez Sarah , Rudhard York , Sengupta-Ghosh Arundhati , Lewcock Joseph W.
Published: October 2017

The c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway regulates nervous system development, axon regeneration, and neuronal degeneration after acute injury or in chronic neurodegenerative disease. Dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) is required for stress-induced JNK signaling in neurons, yet the factors that initiate DLK/JNK pathway activity remain poorly defined. In the present study, we identify the Ste20 kinases MAP4K4, misshapen-like kinase 1 (MINK1 or MAP4K6) and TNIK Traf2- and Nck-interacting kinase (TNIK or MAP4K7), as upstream regulators of DLK/JNK signaling in neurons. Using a trophic factor withdrawal-based model of neurodegeneration in both male and female embryonic mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons, we show that MAP4K4, MINK1, and TNIK act redundantly to regulate DLK activation and downstream JNK-dependent phosphorylation of c-Jun in response to stress. Targeting MAP4K4, MINK1, and TNIK, but not any of these kinases individually, is sufficient to protect neurons potently from degeneration. Pharmacological inhibition of MAP4Ks blocks stabilization and phosphorylation of DLK within axons and subsequent retrograde translocation of the JNK signaling complex to the nucleus. These results position MAP4Ks as important regulators of the DLK/JNK signaling pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTNeuronal degeneration occurs in disparate circumstances: during development to refine neuronal connections, after injury to clear damaged neurons, or pathologically during disease. The dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK)/c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway represents a conserved regulator of neuronal injury signaling that drives both neurodegeneration and axon regeneration, yet little is known about the factors that initiate DLK activity. Here, we uncover a novel role for a subfamily of MAP4 kinases consisting of MAP4K4, Traf2- and Nck-interacting kinase (TNIK or MAP4K7), and misshapen-like kinase 1 (MINK1 or MAP4K6) in regulating DLK/JNK signaling in neurons. Inhibition of these MAP4Ks blocks stress-induced retrograde JNK signaling and protects from neurodegeneration, suggesting that these kinases may represent attractive therapeutic targets.
About a Key
Authors: Swinkin Jeffrey
Published: October 2017

In the sonata practice of the mid-eighteenth century, composers frequently asserted the minor dominant prior to the major dominant in the second part of the exposition. Beethoven dramatized this technique in two senses: first, he used it after it had largely fallen out of fashion, thus affording it considerable dramatic impact (e.g., Piano Sonatas Ops. 2, no. 2, and no. 3); second, he graduated from using the “wrong” mode to the more radical technique of using the “wrong” key. For instance, for the secondary key of the Piano Sonatas Ops. 31, no. 1, and 53 (“Waldstein”), he substitutes the major mediant for the dominant. These and similar cases result in the deferred arrival of the tonic in the secondary theme of the recapitulation. Consequently, when the tonic belatedly arrives, the listener is more cognizant of it. In this way Beethoven brings the resolution of large-scale tonal dissonance to the fore. I suggest that such a tactic is metamusical—that Beethoven was in a sense writing music about music, about the relationship between a particular piece and the tonal and formal conventions it relies on and also problematizes.

After presenting a number of such metamusical instances, this article traces the stages by which Beethoven “progressed” from the mid-eighteenth-century approach to sonata expositions to his more radical one; it then offers a typology of key-problematizing techniques. It concludes by briefly considering the extent to which these procedures can be squared with Schenkerian theory and its ideal of structural hearing.
Impact of intercurrent illness on calcium homeostasis in children with hypoparathyroidism: a case series
Authors: Chinoy A , Skae M , Babiker A , Kendall D , Mughal M Z , Padidela R
Published: October 2017

Background

Hypoparathyroidism is characterised by hypocalcaemia, and standard management is with an active vitamin D analogue and adequate oral calcium intake (dietary and/or supplements). Little is described in the literature about the impact of intercurrent illnesses on calcium homeostasis in children with hypoparathyroidism.

Methods

We describe three children with hypoparathyroidism in whom intercurrent illnesses led to hypocalcaemia and escalation of treatment with alfacalcidol (1-hydroxycholecalciferol) and calcium supplements.

Results

Three infants managed with standard treatment for hypoparathyroidism (two with homozygous mutations in GCMB2 gene and one with Sanjad-Sakati syndrome) developed symptomatic hypocalcaemia (two infants developed seizures) following respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses. Substantial increases in alfacalcidol doses (up to three times their pre-illness doses) and calcium supplementation were required to achieve acceptable serum calcium concentrations. However, following resolution of illness, these children developed an increase in serum calcium and hypercalciuria, necessitating rapid reduction to pre-illness dosages of alfacalcidol and oral calcium supplementation.

Conclusion

Intercurrent illness may precipitate symptomatic hypocalcaemia in children with hypoparathyroidism, necessitating increase in dosages of alfacalcidol and calcium supplements. Close monitoring is required on resolution of the intercurrent illness, with timely reduction of dosages of active analogues of vitamin D and calcium supplements to prevent hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis.
Targeting either GH or IGF-I during somatostatin analogue treatment in patients with acromegaly: a randomized multicentre study
Authors: Dal Jakob , Klose Marianne , Heck Ansgar , Andersen Marianne , Kistorp Caroline , Nielsen Eigil H , Bollerslev Jens , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Jørgensen Jens O L
Published: October 2017

Context

Discordant GH and IGF-I values are frequent in acromegaly. The clinical significance and its dependence on treatment modality and of glucose-suppressed GH (GHnadir) measurements remain uncertain.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of targeting either IGF-I or GH during somatostatin analogue (SA) treatment.

Patients and Methods

84 patients with controlled acromegaly after surgery (n = 23) or SA (n = 61) underwent a GH profile including an OGTT, at baseline and after 12 months. SA patients were randomized to monitoring according to either IGF-I (n = 33) or GHnadir (n = 28). SA dose escalation was allowed at baseline and 6 months.

Main outcome measures

GHnadir and IGF-I at baseline and 12 months, and disease-specific Quality of Life (QoL).

Results

IGF-I and fasting GH levels were comparable between the surgery and the SA group, whereas GHnadir (µg/L) was lower in the surgery group (GHnadir 0.7 ± 0.1 vs 0.3 ± 0.1, P < 0.01). SA dose increase was performed in 20 patients in the GH group and in 8 patients in the IGF-I group (P = 0.02), which increased the number of concordantly controlled patients (P = 0.01). QoL was only mildly affected at baseline in all groups and did not changed consistently during the study.

Conclusion

(1) Discordant values in terms of high GH levels are prevalent in SA patients and more so if applying glucose-suppressed GHnadir; (2) targeting discordant levels of either GH or IGF-I translates into SA dose increase and improved biochemical control; (3) even though QoL was not improved in this study, we suggest biochemical assessment of disease activity to include glucose-suppressed GHnadir also in SA patients.
Dynamics of cytoplasm and cleavage divisions correlates with preimplantation embryo development
Authors: Milewski Robert , Szpila Marcin , Ajduk Anna
Published: October 2017

In vitrofertilization has become increasingly popular as an infertility treatment. In order to improve efficiency of this procedure, there is a strong need for a refinement of existing embryo assessment methods and development of novel, robust and non-invasive selection protocols. Studies conducted on animal models can be extremely helpful here, as they allow for more extensive research on the potential biomarkers of embryo quality. In the present paper, we subjected mouse embryos to non-invasive time-lapse imaging and combined the Particle Image Velocimetry analysis of cytoplasmic dynamics in freshly fertilized oocytes with the morphokinetic analysis of recordings covering 5 days of preimplantation development. Our results indicate that parameters describing cytoplasmic dynamics and cleavage divisions independently correspond to mouse embryo’s capacity to form a high-quality blastocyst. We also showed for the first time that these parameters are associated with the percentage of abnormal embryonic cells with fragmented nuclei and with embryo’s ability to form primitive endoderm, one of the cell lineages differentiated during preimplantation development. Finally, we present a model that links selected cytoplasmic and morphokinetic parameters reflecting frequency of fertilization-induced Ca2+-oscillations and timing of 4-cell stage and compaction with viability of the embryo assessed as the total number of cells at the end of its preimplantation development. Our results indicate that a combined analysis of cytoplasmic dynamics and morphokinetics may facilitate the assessment of embryo’s ability to form high-quality blastocysts.
Co-occurrence of Type 1 Diabetes and Celiac Disease Autoimmunity
Authors: Hagopian William , Lee Hye-Seung , Liu Edwin , Rewers Marian , She Jin-Xiong , Ziegler Anette-G. , Lernmark Åke , Toppari Jorma , Rich Stephen S. , Krischer Jeffrey P. , Erlich Henry , Akolkar Beena , Agardh Daniel ,   the TEDDY Study Group
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Few birth cohorts have prospectively followed development of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease (CD) autoimmunities to determine timing, extent of co-occurrence, and associated genetic and demographic factors.

METHODS:

In this prospective birth cohort study, 8676 children at high genetic risk of both diseases were enrolled and 5891 analyzed in median follow-up of 66 months. Along with demographic factors and HLA-DR-DQ, genotypes for HLA-DPB1 and 5 non-HLA loci conferring risk of both T1D and CD were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Development of persistent islet autoantibodies (IAs) and tissue transglutaminase autoantibodies (tTGAs), as well as each clinical disease, was evaluated quarterly from 3 to 48 months of age and semiannually thereafter. IAs alone appeared in 367, tTGAs alone in 808, and both in 90 children. Co-occurrence significantly exceeded the expected rate. IAs usually, but not always, appeared earlier than tTGAs. IAs preceding tTGAs was associated with increasing risk of tTGAs (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–1.91). After adjusting for country, sex, family history, and all other genetic loci, significantly greater co-occurrence was observed in children with a T1D family history (HR: 2.80), HLA-DR3/4 (HR: 1.94) and single-nucleotide polymorphism rs3184504 at SH2B3 (HR: 1.53). However, observed co-occurrence was not fully accounted for by all analyzed factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

In early childhood, T1D autoimmunity usually precedes CD autoimmunity. Preceding IAs significantly increases the risk of subsequent tTGAs. Co-occurrence is greater than explained by demographic factors and extensive genetic risk loci, indicating that shared environmental or pathophysiological mechanisms may contribute to the increased risk.
Projeto de um jornal impresso com foco na experiência do usuário
Authors: Neves Bruna Carvalho das , Margarites Ana Paula Freitas
Published: October 2017

O presente artigo propõe-se a fazer um recorte da etapa prática de um trabalho de conclusão de curso. A pesquisa como um todo visa propor a elaboração de um modelo conceitual de jornal impresso com foco na experiência do usuário, na qual se utilizou uma metodologia de projeto aplicada para o desenvolvimento de produtos digitais. Através de modificações estruturais e de navegação no jornal, o projeto procura manter e atrair o público para o consumo da mídia impressa. Para atingir tal objetivo realizou-se o projeto de redesign do caderno Notícias do jornalZero Hora com base em procedimentos metodológicos da área do design digital.
Dialysate Potassium, Dialysate Magnesium, and Hemodialysis Risk
Authors: Pun Patrick H. , Middleton John P.
Published: October 2017

One of the fundamental goals of the hemodialysis prescription is to maintain serum potassium levels within a narrow normal range during both the intradialytic and interdialytic intervals. Considering the extraordinarily high rate of cardiovascular mortality in the hemodialysis population, clinicians are obligated to explore whether factors related to dialytic potassium removal can be modified to improve clinical outcomes. Observational studies and circumstantial evidence suggest that extreme concentrations of serum and dialysate potassium can trigger cardiac arrest. In this review, we provide an overview of factors affecting overall potassium balance and factors modulating potassium dialysate fluxes in dialysis, and we review data linking serum and dialysate potassium concentrations with arrhythmias, cardiovascular events, and mortality. We explore potential interactions between serum and dialysate magnesium levels and risks associated with dialysate potassium levels. Finally, we conclude with proposed dialytic and novel nondialytic approaches to optimize outcomes related to potassium homeostasis in patients on hemodialysis. Dialysis clinicians need to consider changes in the overall clinical scenario when choosing dialysate potassium concentrations, and an effective change in practice will require more frequent serum potassium monitoring and responsive dialysis care teams.
Reproductive biology of the threatened species Furcraea parmentieri (Aspargaceae)
Authors: Albarrán Maria , Silva-Montellano Arturo , Valverde Teresa
Published: October 2017

Background: Reproductive traits are features of a species’ biology that may determine its rarity, as they affect its genetic diversity and structure, as well as its population dynamics.
Study species: The rare and threatened species Furcraea parmentieri, whose distribution is limited to the Trans-Mexican volcanic belt. 
Questions: How is the reproductive phenology of F. parmentieri? Does flower morphology vary between individuals? Does it produce nectar? Which animals visit its flowers? Is it self-compatible? Do the seeds originated via different pollination treatments show differences in their germinability?
Study sites and dates: We studied the F. parmentieri from 2007 to 2008, at El Xitle volcano (altitude: 2800 – 3100 m; pine-oak forest), in the south of Mexico City.
Methods: Reproductive phenology was recorded through fortnightly visits to the study site. Flowers were collected, flower visitors were recorded and nectar production was measured. An experiment was done which included four treatments: autonomous pollination, geitonogamy, cross pollination, and a control. We measured seed set, fruit set and seed germination in each treatment.
Results: Inflorescences started in January and flowering finished in May. Fruit maturation took from May to November. Nectar production was negligible. Flowers were visited by hawkmoths and hummingbirds. Fruit set was very low (ca. 5 %) and we observed self-incompatibility.    
Conclusions: Fucraeae parmentieri presents a low fruit set due to pollinator limitation. However the population seems to be thriving. The main threat faced by this species is the high land-use change rate along its distribution range, as well as climate change.
Phylogenetic position of Echeveria heterosepala (Crassulaceae): a rare species with diagnostic characters of Pachyphytum
Authors: Vázquez-Cotero Carlos , Sosa Victoria , Carrillo-Reyes Pablo
Published: October 2017

Background: Echeveria and Pachyphytum are two closely related Neotropical genera in the Crassulaceae. Several species in Echeveria possess characters cited as diagnostic for Pachyphytum such as a clearly defined stem, a nectary scale on the inner face of petals and as inflorescence a scorpioid cyme or cincinnus. Pachyphytum has been identified as monophyletic while Echeveria as polyphyletic in previous molecular phylogenetic analysess.
Hypothesis: The objective of this paper is to identify the phylogenetic position of a rare species with restricted distribution in Echeveria, E. heterosepala that possesses the diagnostic characters of Pachyphytum to better understand the generic limits between these two genera. We expect this species to be closely related to Pachyphytum.
Methods: Bayesian inference and Maximum Likelihood analyses were carried out using 47 taxa, including as ingroup, species of Echeveria, Graptopetalum, Lenophyllum, Pachyphytum, Sedum, Thompsonella and Villadia and as outgroup, species in Dudleya. Analyses were conducted based on plastid (rpl16, trnL-F) and nuclear (ETS, ITS) markers. Ancestral character reconstruction was carried out under a parsimony criterion based on the molecular trees retrieved by the phylogenetic analyses. Four morphological characters were considered: defined stem, type of inflorescence, nectary scale in petals and position of sepals.
Results: Accessions of E. heterosepala were retrieved in a well-supported clade group comprising exclusively Echeveria species. Therefore this species belongs to Echeveria although possessing characters similar to Pachyphytum and moreover it was not identified closely related to this genus. None of the traits considered have taxonomic importance. The node at the Pachyphytum clade identified unambiguous character states such as stem present, straight sepals, nectary scale on petals, however these character states were identified in the rest of the clades as well. Remarkably, the monophyly of Pachyphytum was corroborated, while Echeveria remains poorly understood.
Molecular phylogeny and morphologic data of strains of the genus Coelastrella (Chlorophyta, Scenedesmaceae) from a tropical region in North America (Yucatan Peninsula)
Authors: Ancona-Canché Katia , López-Adrián Silvia , Espinosa-Aguilar Margarita , Garduño-Solórzano Gloria , Toledano-Thompson Tanit , Narváez-Zapata José , Valdez-Ojeda Ruby
Published: October 2017

Background: Scenedesmaceae family exhibits great morphological variability. High phenotypic plasticity and the presence of cryptic species have resulted in taxonomic re-assignments of Scenedesmaceae members.
Study strains: Strains CORE-1, CORE-2 and CORE-3 were characterized.
Study site: Yucatan Peninsula
Methods: Morphological analyses were executed by optical and scanning electron microscopy. Phylogenetic relationships were examined by ITS-2 and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA regions.
Results: Optical and scanning electron microscopy analyses indicated spherical to ellipsoidal cells and autospore formation correspond to members of the family Scenedesmaceae, as well as observable pyrenoid starch plates. Detailed morphology analysis indicated that CORE-1 had visible granulations dispersed on the cell wall, suggesting identity with Verrucodesmus verrucosus. However CORE-1 did not show genetic relations with this species, and was instead clustered close to the genus Coelastrella. CORE-2 did not show any particular structure or ornamentation, but it did show genetic relations with Coelastrella with good support. CORE-3 showed meridional ribs from end to end, one of them forked and well pronounced, and orange cells in older cultures characteristic of Coelastrella specimens. Phylogenetic trees of ITS-2 and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequences indicated with good support that all strains were related to the genus Coelastrella despite their morphologic differences.
Conclusions: This study reports freshwater Coelastrella strains from a tropical region in North America (Yucatan Peninsula) for the first time. The results contribute to knowledge of Coelastrella species, and the fact that they do not always show structures that are useful for taxonomic assignment, probably as a result of phenotypic plasticity.
Light environment affects the levels of resistance hormones in Syngonium podophyllum leaves and its attack by herbivores and fungi
Authors: García-Guzmán Graciela , Domínguez-Velázquez Frida , Mendiola-Soto Jaime , Heil Martin
Published: October 2017

Background: Little is known on factors determining infection of tropical plants by fungal pathogens, although multiple studies on model species show that light conditions affect the two major hormones that control resistance in plants to enemies. This is the first study using a natural population of a wild tropical plant to relate light conditions to resistance hormones and, the beneficial and detrimental interactions with insects and fungi.
Hypothesis: Light conditions affect the endogenous levels of resistance hormones and thereby cause quantitative shifts among herbivores and nectrotrophic, biotrophic and endophytic fungi.
Studied species: The tropical vine Syngonium podophyllum.
Study site: Los Tuxtlas tropical rain forest, Mexico.
Methods: We used GC-MS to quantify the concentration of the two resistance hormones in intact leaves and natural levels of herbivory and fungal disease in S. podophyllum plants growing naturally in the full sun or in the shade.
Results: The proportion of leaves damaged by herbivores or infected by hemibiotrophic or necrotrophic pathogens was higher in shade than under full-light conditions. Damage caused by biotrophic pathogens was frequently observed in sun but not in shade. Levels of both hormones in phenotypically healthy leaves were higher in sun than in shade.
Conclusions: (i) light has an effect on concentrations of plant resistance hormones in nature; (ii) these differences have consequences for fungi and animals that naturally interact with the plant, and (iii) the described effect can represent a physiological mechanism via which an abiotic factor affects the members of the guilds at higher trophic levels.
Diversity of galls induced by wasps (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae, Cynipini) associated with oaks (Fagaceae: Quercus) in Mexico
Authors: Pascual-Alvarado Enrique , Nieves-Aldrey José Luis , Castillejos-Lemus Douhglas Eliseo , Cuevas-Reyes Pablo , Oyama Ken
Published: October 2017

Background. Gall-inducing insects make up a guild of highly specialized endophagous herbivores. The cynipids (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Cynipini) are highly diversified gall-inducing wasps that are largely associated with oaks (Fagaceae: Quercus). Mexico is one of the centers of diversification for the Quercus genus with 161 described species, of which 109 are endemic.
Questions / hypothesis. The present study aims to identify the gall richness, gall morphological variation and degree of specificity to oaks in Mexico.
Methods. An intensive collection was conducted from March to September each year from 2008 to 2012 for a total of 80 oak species in 120 localities in Mexico.
Results. A total of 224 morphologically distinct galls associated with 73 of the 80 oak species were found. The largest number of morphotypes was found in leaves (125), followed by branches (37), buds (31), petioles (20), catkins (5), acorns (3) and roots (3). The degree of specificity between the gall-inducing wasps and their hosts was highly variable; between one to 20 distinct gall morphotypes were found in each species. Only 23 oak species had a single gall morphotype associated.
Conclusions. This study demonstrates the important interaction between oaks and gall-inducing wasps, which is a very complex co-evolutionary process. It also shows the relevance of basic taxonomic studies of little-known groups such as gall-inducing wasps, especially in a highly biodiverse country such as Mexico.
Floristic composition of the cloud forest of the Bicentenario Reserve, Zongolica, Veracruz, México
Authors: Castillo-Hernández Luis Alfonso , Flores-Olvera Hilda
Published: October 2017

Background: The Bicentenario Reserve (BR) located in Sierra de Zongolica, Veracruz, includes 63 hectares of cloud forest (cf) which lacks of systematic floristic studies, but the Sierra proposed as an area for bird conservation.
Questions: i) Is the floristic composition of the BR taxonomical rich? ii) How the growth forms are represented in this Reserve ? iii) Has the BR endemic or threatened species?
Studied species: Vascular plants.
Study site and years of study: The BR was explored from March 2011 to October 2012.
Methods: Botanical samples from each species considered different were collected and processed according to conventional procedures to be identified with the use of taxonomic tools, and consults with specialist. Analysis of the richness, life forms, endemism and threatened species were made.
Results: We recorded 401 species, distributed in 272 genera and 102 families, being the most diverse Orchidaceae, Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Piperaceae; whilst Peperomia, Tillandsia, Polypodium, Quercus and Solanum are the genera with the highest number of species. Sixty-nine species are endemic to Mexico, but six are restricted to Veracruz. We found 23 new records for the municipality of Zongolica, Quercus ghiesbreghtii in the cf for the first time, and Q. furfuraceae for Veracruz; 86 species are threatened.
Conclusions: The BR has a high floristic richness compared to other areas with cf in Mexico, revealing the importance to complete the floristic studies along the Sierra de Zongolica. Due the high number of threatened species in the BR its long-term conservation acquires a greater importance.