bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a thesaurus of plant characteristics: an ecological contribution
Authors: Garnier Eric , Stahl Ulrike , Laporte Marie‐Angélique , Kattge Jens , Mougenot Isabelle , Kühn Ingolf , Laporte Baptiste , Amiaud Bernard , Ahrestani Farshid S. , Bönisch Gerhard , Bunker Daniel E. , Cornelissen J. Hans C. , Díaz Sandra , Enquist Brian J. , Gachet Sophie , Jaureguiberry Pedro , Kleyer Michael , Lavorel Sandra , Maicher Lutz , Pérez‐Harguindeguy Natalia , Poorter Hendrik , Schildhauer Mark , Shipley Bill , Violle Cyrille , Weiher Evan , Wirth Christian , Wright Ian J. , Klotz Stefan
Published: November 2016

Ecological research produces a tremendous amount of data, but the diversity in scales and topics covered and the ways in which studies are carried out result in large numbers of small, idiosyncratic data sets using heterogeneous terminologies. Such heterogeneity can be attributed, in part, to a lack of standards for acquiring, organizing and describing data. Here, we propose a terminological resource, a Thesaurus Of Plant characteristics (TOP), whose aim is to harmonize and formalize concepts for plant characteristics widely used in ecology.

TOP concentrates on two types of plant characteristics: traits and environmental associations. It builds on previous initiatives for several aspects: (i) characteristics are designed following the entity‐quality (EQ) model (a characteristic is modelled as the ‘Quality’  of an ‘Entity’ ) used in the context of Open Biological Ontologies; (ii) whenever possible, the Entities and Qualities are taken from existing terminology standards, mainly the Plant Ontology (PO) and Phenotypic Quality Ontology (PATO) ontologies; and (iii) whenever a characteristic already has a definition, if appropriate, it is reused and referenced. The development of TOP, which complies with semantic web principles, was carried out through the involvement of experts from both the ecology and the semantics research communities. Regular updates of TOP are planned, based on community feedback and involvement.

TOP provides names, definitions, units, synonyms and related terms for about 850 plant characteristics. TOP is available online (www.top-thesaurus.org), and can be browsed using an alphabetical list of characteristics, a hierarchical tree of characteristics, a faceted and a free‐text search, and through an Application Programming Interface.

Synthesis. Harmonizing definitions of concepts, as proposed by TOP, forms the basis for better integration of data across heterogeneous data sets and terminologies, thereby increasing the potential for data reuse. It also allows enhanced scientific synthesis. TOP therefore has the potential to improve research and communication not only within the field of ecology, but also in related fields with interest in plant functioning and distribution.
Competition and facilitation determine dwarf mistletoe infection dynamics
Authors: Queijeiro‐Bolaños Mónica E. , González Edgar J. , Martorell Carlos , Cano‐Santana Zenón
Published: November 2016

Interspecific interactions have a fundamental role in plant population dynamics, as they may set the conditions for species coexistence. Parasitic plants, like dwarf mistletoes, offer the opportunity to study competition for resources that are different from those consumed by most plants, allowing for a better understanding of the interaction.

We explored how interspecific interactions between two dwarf mistletoe species (Arceuthobium), co‐infecting the same host species (even sharing the same individual tree ofPinus hartwegii) affect their infection dynamics at two different stages of population development (colonization of new hosts and subsequent growth), and if heterogeneity in resource availability (host density and size structure) affects these interactions. For that purpose, we integrated these processes into a spatially explicit model of density‐dependent population growth.

We found that self‐regulation (density‐dependence) was strong for both species; however, the intensity and sign of interspecific interactions changed depending on host size and demographic process. Population growth inArceuthobium globosumwas reduced by competition, except for smaller hosts whereA. globosumgrowth was facilitated byArceuthobium vaginatum.Arceuthobium vaginatumwas facilitated byA. globosumregardless of host size. Colonization of new hosts byA. globosumwas enhanced by previous infection by the other species, showing intraguild facilitation.

Demographic importance of interactions depended on stand structure: in homogeneous, low‐density forests, facilitation predominates, increasing the population sizes of both species, whereas the opposite occurs in heterogeneous and dense forests. Both species achieved stable coexistence, fulfilling the invasibility criterion because each mistletoe species can invade a forest that is already infected by the other species.

Synthesis. Despite the fundamentally different mechanisms underlying the interactions between mistletoes compared with non‐parasitic plants, our results reveal that their behaviour at the population level is similar. Stabilizing mechanisms, like strong self‐limiting population growth, allow dwarf mistletoe coexistence. Interactions shift as populations develop, and they depend largely on environmental factors such as forest structure. Intraguild mutualism is shown as a relevant process for colonization of new spaces, highlighting the complexity of competitive/facilitative interactions between parasitic plants, a formerly unexplored subject. Interactions can only be fully understood when integrating all their components at the population level. Analysing these interactions may contribute to the understanding of plant–plant interactions in general, and convey interesting implications for forest management.
R1 autonomic nervous system in acute kidney injury
Authors: Hering Dagmara , Winklewski Pawel J
Published: November 2016

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a rapid loss of kidney function resulting in accumulation of end metabolic products and associated abnormalities in fluid, electrolyte and acid‐base homeostasis. The pathophysiology of AKI is complex and multifactorial involving numerous vascular, tubular and inflammatory pathways. Neurohumoral activation with heightened activity of the sympathetic nervous system and renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system play a critical role in this scenario. Inflammation and/or local renal ischaemia are underlying mechanisms triggering renal tissue hypoxia and resultant renal microcirculation dysfunction; a common feature of AKI occurring in numerous clinical conditions leading to a high morbidity and mortality rate. The contribution of renal nerves to the pathogenesis of AKI has been extensively demonstrated in a series of experimental models over the past decades. While this has led to better knowledge of the pathogenesis of human AKI, therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes are scarce. Restoration of autonomic regulatory function with vagal nerve stimulation resulting in anti‐inflammatory effects and modulation of centrally‐mediated mechanisms could be of clinical relevance. Evidence from experimental studies suggests that a therapeutic splenic ultrasound approach may prevent AKI via activation of the cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway. This review briefly summarizes renal nerve anatomy, basic insights into neural control of renal function in the physiological state and the involvement of the autonomic nervous system in the pathophysiology of AKI chiefly due to sepsis, cardiopulmonary bypass and ischaemia/reperfusion experimental model. Finally, potentially preventive experimental pre‐clinical approaches for the treatment of AKI aimed at sympathetic inhibition and/or parasympathetic stimulation are presented.
Body mass index and hand osteoarthritis susceptibility: an updated meta‐analysis
Authors: Jiang Liying , Xie Xiaohua , Wang Yidan , Wang Yingchen , Lu Yihua , Tian Tian , Chu Minjie , Shen Yi
Published: November 2016

Aim

Numerous epidemiologic studies have evaluated the association between overweight and hand osteoarthritis; However, the existing results are inconsistent.

Methods

Systematic searches were performed and reference lists from the retrieved trials were searched. This meta‐analysis and meta‐regression was executed to identify all English‐language articles that quantitatively assess the strength of associations between body mass index and hand osteoarthritis risk. Study‐specific incremental estimates were standardized to determine the risk associated with a 5 kg/m2 increase in body mass index. We conducted the study according to the guidelines for the meta‐analysis of observational studies in epidemiology.

Results

Of the 21 studies included, 13 were cross‐sectional studies, three were case control studies and five were cohort studies. The pooled summary estimates were 1.10 (95%CI: 0.98–1.24) with no significant difference (P = 0.09). Subgroup analysis shows that body mass index was positively associated with hand osteoarthritis in cross‐sectional studies (1.05 [95%CI: 1.02–1.08] P < 0.01), while with no significant difference was found in case‐control studies (1.28 [95%CI: 0.87–1.88]) and in cohort studies (1.06 [95%CI: 0.71–1.58]) (P = 0.21 and P = 0.77, respectively). A weak but significant effect on radiographic hand osteoarthritis risk was found. The summary estimates were 1.06 (95%CI: 1.02–1.10) in studies defined by radiography and 1.25 (95%CI: 1.06–1.49) by radiography and clinically (P < 0 .01 and P = 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

It appears that increased body mass index contributes to a positively moderate effect on susceptibility to hand osteoarthritis, as defined radiographically and/or radiographically and clinically. The effects vary by study design and osteoarthritis definition.
Factors associated with quality of life and functional disability among rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs for at least 6 months
Authors: Bae Sang‐Cheol , Cho Soo‐Kyung , Won Soyoung , Lee Hye‐Soon , Lee Sang‐Heon , Kang Young Mo , Lee Sang‐Hoon , Lee Yeon‐Ah , Choe Jung‐Yoon , Chung Won‐Tae , Suh Chang‐Hee , Shim Seung‐Cheol , Lee Jisoo , Yoon Bo Young , Kim Dong‐Wook , Lee Shin‐Seok , Yoo Wan‐Hee , Kim Jin‐Seok , Jung Young‐Ok , Nah Seong‐Su , Lee Choong‐Ki , Song Gwan‐Gyu , Choi Sung Jae , Joung Chung‐Il , Koh Hyein , Kim Young‐Joo
Published: November 2016

Aim

To determine characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in Korea using disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for at least 6 months, and to identify factors associated with poor health‐related outcomes.

Method

A total of 2000RApatients aged > 20 years, treated withDMARDs for at least 6 months, and signed informed consent, were enrolled in this non‐interventional, multicenter, cross‐sectional observational study from December 2012 to June 2013. Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) was measured using EuroQuol 5D (EQ‐5D) and functional disability was measured using the Korean Health Assessment Questionnaire (KHAQ). Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to determine the association between patient characteristics and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs).

Results

Of allRApatients, 84% were female, patients with low Disease Activity Score of 28 joints erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS‐28‐ESR< 3.2) was 54%, while moderate (DAS‐28‐ESR3.2–5.1) and high disease activity score (DAS‐28‐ESR> 5.1) were 38% and 7.6%, respectively. MeanEQ‐5D index score andKHAQscore were 0.6 ± 0.28 and 0.7 ± 0.67, respectively. In multivariate analysis with bothPROs, averageHRQoL and functional disability score appeared to be worse in persons with older age compared to younger age (P< 0.001), and worse in females compared to males (P< 0.001). Compared to patients having lowerDAS(< 3.2), those with moderate and highestDAS(3.2–5.1 and > 5.1) had worse outcome measures (P< 0.001).

Conclusion

In this study, higherDASwas one of the most influential factors for poorPROs among all other factors. Therefore, we could suggest appropriate treatment approaches according toDASalong with other significantly associated factors withPROs in the early stage ofRA.
Drug survival and reasons for discontinuation of the first biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs in Thai patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Analysis from the Thai Rheumatic Disease Prior Authorization registry
Authors: Narongroeknawin Pongthorn , Chevaisrakul Parawee , Kasitanon Nuntana , Kitumnuaypong Tasanee , Mahakkanukrauh Ajanee , Siripaitoon Boonjing , Katchamart Wanruchada ,   the Thai Rheumatism Association
Published: November 2016

Aim

To evaluate and compare the retention rate of biological disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in real‐life practice and identify risk factors related to remission and drug discontinuation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Method

A total of 256 patients fulfilling criteria for RA and starting bDMARD between December 2009 and October 2014 were selected from the Rheumatic Disease Prior Authorization registry. Baseline demographic and clinical data were recorded. The cumulative probability of bDMARD discontinuation over 5 years of follow‐up and factors associated with RA remission and bDMARD withdrawal were analyzed.

Results

Almost half (46%) of patients were initially treated with rituximab (RTX), with 33% treated with etanercept (ETN) and 21% with infliximab (IFX). Fewer than 10% were subsequently switched to a second bDMARD. The 1‐ and 5‐year remission rates in patients continuing their first bDMARD were 7.2% and 21.5%, respectively. At 5 years, the drug survival rates for RTX, ETN and IFX were 50%, 25% and 22%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that RTX was significantly associated with highest drug survival. Relative to RTX, the hazard ratios for discontinuation of IFX and ETN were 2.60 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53–4.42) and 2.15 (95% CI 1.36–3.42), respectively. Thirty‐nine percent of patients stopped treatments, due to inadequate response (42%), serious adverse events (22%), nonadherence (14%) or remission/low disease activity (13%).

Conclusion

Over 5 years, only one‐third of patients continued using their first bDMARD. The leading cause of drug discontinuation was inadequate response.
Fetal hemodynamics and adverse outcome in primary school‐aged children with fetal growth restriction: a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Korkalainen Noora , Räsänen Juha , Kaukola Tuula , Kallankari Hanna , Hallman Mikko , Mäkikallio Kaarin
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Fetal growth restriction is associated with short‐term and long‐term mortality and morbidity. We hypothesized that adverse outcome in children with fetal growth restriction at primary school age is associated with fetoplacental circulatory abnormalities.

Material and methods

Comprehensive ultrasonographic assessment of fetoplacental hemodynamics was performed in 72 growth‐restricted fetuses prenatally, and short‐term outcome data were collected. At the median age of 9 years, mortality and morbidity were determined using medical charts and questionnaires. The impact of abnormal fetoplacental hemodynamics on mortality and morbidity with significant developmental disorders or delay were studied.

Results

Fetal growth restriction children with adverse long‐term outcome were delivered earlier and with lower birthweights than were those with non‐compromised outcome. Seventy percent of the fetal growth restriction group showed non‐compromised long‐term outcomes and participated in mainstream education at the appropriate age level. Absent/retrograde diastolic flow in the umbilical artery (p < 0.001), negative A‐wave in the ductus venosus (p = 0.006), cardiomegaly (p = 0.02), hydrops (p = 0.006) and cardiovascular profile score <6 (p = 0.002) were associated with increased risk of adverse outcome. After adjustment for gestational age, these parameters demonstrated hazard ratios of 5.0–16.5 for adverse long‐term outcome; increased systemic venous pulsatility and low cardiovascular profile score had the highest predictive power.

Conclusions

Absent or reversed end‐diastolic flow in the umbilical artery, reversed A‐wave in the ductus venosus, cardiomegaly, hydrops, and low cardiovascular profile score are associated with adverse outcomes at primary school age in fetal growth restriction children. These fetal parameters play a significant role in the prediction of long‐term outcomes for fetal growth restriction children.
Estimation of diet in extinct raccoon dog species by the molar ratio method
Authors: Asahara Masakazu , Takai Masanaru
Published: November 2016

Estimation of the dietary habits of extinct species using morphological traits has been attempted in numerous studies; however, previous methods have encountered several difficulties, such as requiring specialized equipment. In this study, we describe an easy quantitative method for estimating the dietary habits, and apply it to extinct raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes) species (Carnivora, Mammalia). The method is based on the lower molar ratios (M2/M1 size) that reflect the species diet (carnivorous and omnivorous tendencies) in Canidae. Among the species statistically compared, Nyctereutes sinensis showed a lower M2/M1 score similar to that of Nyctereutes procyonoides albus (Hokkaido, Japan), whereas Nyctereutes tingi had a higher M2/M1 score similar to that of Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus (Honshu and Kyushu, Japan). These scores suggest that the diets of N. sinensis and N. tingi were similar to those of N. p. albus (relatively carnivorous) and N. p. viverrinus (relatively omnivorous), respectively. Other extinct raccoon dogs also showed varied M2/M1 score, suggesting dietary difference. These results suggest that raccoon dogs underwent dietary transitions or exhibited dietary plasticity during evolution, while their range of diets might have remained the same as those of different populations of extant species Nyctereutes procyonoides.
Quality of life in childhood, adolescence and adult food allergy: Patient and parent perspectives
Authors: Stensgaard A. , Bindslev‐Jensen C. , Nielsen D. , Munch M. , DunnGalvin A.
Published: November 2016

Background

Studies of children with food allergy typically only include the mother and have not investigated the relationship between the amount of allergen needed to elicit a clinical reaction (threshold) and health‐related quality of life (HRQL). Our aims were (i) to compare self‐reported and parent‐reported HRQL in different age groups, (ii) to evaluate the impact of severity of allergic reaction and threshold on HRQL, and (iii) to investigate factors associated with patient‐reported and parent‐reported HRQL.

Methods

Age‐appropriate Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaires (FAQLQ) were completed by 73 children, 49 adolescents and 29 adults with peanut, hazelnut or egg allergy. Parents (197 mothers, 120 fathers) assessed their child's HRQL using the FAQLQ‐Parent form. Clinical data and threshold values were obtained from a hospital database. Significant factors for HRQL were investigated using univariate and multivariate regression.

Results

Female patients reported greater impact of food allergy on HRQL than males did. Egg and hazelnut thresholds did not affect HRQL, but lower peanut threshold was associated with worse HRQL. Both parents scored their child's HRQL better than the child's own assessment, but whereas mother‐reported HRQL was significantly affected by limitations in the child's social life, father‐reported HRQL was affected by limitations in the family's social life. Severity of allergic reaction did not contribute significantly to HRQL.

Conclusion

The risk of accidental allergen ingestion and limitations in social life are associated with worse HRQL. Fathers provide a unique perspective and should have a greater opportunity to contribute to food allergy research.
Balance between IL‐3 and type Iinterferons and their interrelationship with FasL dictates lifespan and effector functions of human basophils
Authors: Hagmann B. R. , Odermatt A. , Kaufmann T. , Dahinden C. A. , Fux M.
Published: November 2016

Background

In contrast to eosinophils and neutrophils, the regulation of the lifespan of human basophils is poorly defined, with the exception of the potent anti‐apoptotic effect of IL‐3 that also promotes pro‐inflammatory effector functions and phenotypic changes. Type I IFNs (IFN‐α, IFN‐β), which are well known for their anti‐viral activities, have the capacity to inhibit allergic inflammation.

Objective

To elucidate whether type I IFNs have the potential to abrogate the lifespan and/or effector functions of human basophils.

Methods

We cultured human basophils, and for comparison, eosinophils and neutrophils, with IL‐3, interferons, FasL and TRAIL, alone or in combination, and studied cell survival, effector functions and signalling pathways involved.

Results

Despite an identical pattern of early signalling in basophils, eosinophils and neutrophils in response to different types of interferons, only basophils displayed enhanced apoptosis after type I IFN treatment. IFN‐γ prolonged survival of eosinophils but did not affect the lifespan of basophils. IFN‐α‐mediated apoptosis required STAT1‐STAT2 heterodimers and the contribution of constitutive p38 MAPK activity. Whereas the death ligands FasL and TRAIL‐induced apoptosis in basophils per se, IFN‐α‐mediated apoptosis did neither involve autocrine TRAIL signalling nor did it sensitize basophils to FasL‐induced apoptosis. However, IFN‐α and FasL displayed an additive effect in killing basophils. Interestingly, IL‐3, which protected basophils from IFN‐α‐, TRAIL‐ or FasL‐mediated apoptosis, did not completely block the additive effect of combined IFN‐α and FasL treatment. Moreover, we demonstrate that IFN‐α suppressed IL‐3‐induced release of IL‐8 and IL‐13. In contrast to IFN‐α‐mediated apoptosis, these inhibitory effects of IFN‐α were not dependent on p38 MAPK signalling.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our study defines the unique and granulocyte‐type‐specific inhibitory and pro‐apoptotic function of type I IFNs and their cooperation with death ligands in human blood basophils, which may be relevant for the anti‐allergic properties of type I IFNs.
Decreased frequencies and impaired functions of the CD31+ subpopulation in Treg cells associated with decreased FoxP3 expression and enhanced Treg cell defects in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Huang L , Zheng Y , Yuan X , Ma Y , Xie G , Wang W , Chen H , Shen L
Published: November 2016

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common types of organ lesions caused by atherosclerosis, in which CD4+CD25+forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3+) regulatory T cells (Treg) play an atheroprotective role. However, Treg cell numbers are decreased and their functions are impaired in atherosclerosis; the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. CD31 plays an important part in T cell response and contributes to maintaining T cell tolerance. The immunomodulatory effects of CD31 are also implicated in atherosclerosis. In this study, we found that decreased frequencies of the CD31+ subpopulation in Treg cells (CD31+Tr cells) correlated positively with decreased FoxP3 expression in CHD patients. Cell culture in vitro demonstrated CD31+Tr cells maintaining stable FoxP3 expression after activation and exhibited enhanced proliferation and immunosuppression compared with the CD31− subpopulation in Treg cells (CD31−Tr cells). We also confirmed impaired secretion of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and interleukin (IL)-10 in CD31+Tr cells of CHD patients. Further analysis revealed reduced phospho-SHP2 (associated with CD31 activation) and phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription-5 (STAT-5) (associated with FoxP3 transcription) levels in CD31+Tr cells of CHD patients, suggesting that decreased FoxP3 expression in CD31+Tr cells might be because of attenuated SHP2 and STAT-5 activation. These data indicate that decreased frequencies and impaired functions of the CD31+Tr subpopulation associated with decreased FoxP3 expression give rise, at least in part, to Treg cell defects in CHD patients. Our findings emphasize the important role of the CD31+Tr subpopulation in maintaining Treg cell normal function and may provide a novel explanation for impaired immunoregulation of Treg cells in CHD.
Eosinophils from eosinophilic oesophagitis patients have T cell suppressive capacity and express FOXP3
Authors: Lingblom C , Wallander J , Ingelsten M , Bergquist H , Bove M , Saalman R , Welin A , Wennerås C
Published: November 2016

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an antigen-driven T cell-mediated chronic inflammatory disease where food and environmental antigens are thought to have a role. Human eosinophils express the immunoregulatory protein galectin-10 and have T cell suppressive capacity similar to regulatory T cells (Tregs). We hypothesized that one function of eosinophils in EoE might be to regulate the T cell-driven inflammation in the oesophagus. This was tested by evaluating the suppressive capacity of eosinophils isolated from the blood of adult EoE patients in a mixed lymphocyte reaction. In addition, eosinophilic expression of forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3), the canonical transcription factor of Tregs, was determined by conventional and imaging flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), confocal microscopy and immunoblotting. It was found that blood eosinophils from EoE patients had T cell suppressive capacity, and that a fraction of the eosinophils expressed FOXP3. A comparison of EoE eosinophils with healthy control eosinophils indicated that the patients' eosinophils had inferior suppressive capacity. Furthermore, a higher percentage of the EoE eosinophils expressed FOXP3 protein compared with the healthy eosinophils, and they also had higher FOXP3 protein and mRNA levels. FOXP3 was found in the cytosol and nucleus of the eosinophils from both the patients and healthy individuals, contrasting with the strict nuclear localization of FOXP3 in Tregs. To conclude, these findings suggest that the immunoregulatory function of eosinophils may be impaired in EoE.
The diagnostic accuracy of non‐imaging screening protocols for vestibular schwannoma in patients with asymmetrical hearing loss and/or unilateral audiovestibular dysfunction: a diagnostic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hentschel M. , Scholte M. , Steens S. , Kunst H. , Rovers M.
Published: November 2016

Background

Currently, all patients presenting with asymmetrical sensorineural hearing loss and/or unilateral audiovestibular dysfunction (i.e. tinnitus, dizziness) undergo MRI, leading to a substantial amount of MRIs with negative findings as the incidence of vestibular schwannoma (VS) in this screening population varies between 1% and 4.7% (i.e. more than 95% of MRIs are negative for VS).

Objective of review

The aim was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of different non‐imaging screening protocols that can be used prior to MRI to select patients at high risk of VS.

Type of review

Diagnostic review and meta‐analysis.

Search strategy

We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase and The Cochrane Library as from inception up to 28 July 2016. We included studies that compared non‐imaging screening protocols to MRI as gold reference standard.

Evaluation method

Methodological quality was assessed by two independent reviewers using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool. Data necessary to complete 2 × 2 tables were obtained, and patient, study, screening and imaging characteristics were extracted. We calculated sensitivity and specificity of all tests and obtained pooled estimates using a bivariate random effects model.

Results

We analysed 12 studies (4969 patients) of poor to moderate quality according to the quality assessment. Most studies tested diagnostic accuracy of multiple screening protocols. Five pure‐tone audiometry (PTA) protocols were studied by multiple authors; pooled estimates for sensitivity ranged from 88% [95% CI: 84–91] to 91% [95% CI: 52–99] and specificity from 31% [95% CI: 10–66] to 58% [95% CI: 49–65]. Due to heterogeneity, we were unable to pool other tests. In five studies testing auditory brainstem response, sensitivity values ranged from 37% [95% CI: 23–52] to 100% [95% CI: 40–100] and specificity from 57% to 96% [95% CI: 87–100]. Two authors studied PTA shape as a screening test. Presenting symptoms, electronystagmography, caloric irrigation and hyperventilation test were assessed by one study each. All reported low diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions

All identified studies had a moderate‐to‐high risk of bias, and none of the currently available non‐imaging screening protocols appear to be accurate in detecting VSs.
Differences in the Evaluation of Generic Statements About Human and Non‐Human Categories
Authors: Tasimi Arber , Gelman Susan A. , Cimpian Andrei , Knobe Joshua
Published: November 2016

Generic statements (e.g., “Birds lay eggs”) express generalizations about categories. Current theories suggest that people should be especially inclined to accept generics that involve threatening information. However, previous tests of this claim have focused on generics about non‐human categories, which raises the question of whether this effect applies as readily to human categories. In Experiment 1, adults were more likely to accept generics involving a threatening (vs. a non‐threatening) property for artifacts, but this negativity bias did not also apply to human categories. Experiment 2 examined an alternative hypothesis for this result, and Experiments 3 and 4 served as conceptual replications of the first experiment. Experiment 5 found that even preschoolers apply generics differently for humans and artifacts. Finally, Experiment 6 showed that these effects reflect differences between human and non‐human categories more generally, as adults showed a negativity bias for categories of non‐human animals, but not for categories of humans. These findings suggest the presence of important, early‐emerging domain differences in people's judgments about generics.
The Transplant Palliative Care Clinic: An early palliative care model for patients in a transplant program
Authors: Wentlandt Kirsten , Dall'Osto Angela , Freeman Nicole , Le Lisa W. , Kaya Ebru , Ross Heather , Singer Lianne G. , Abbey Susan , Clarke Hance , Zimmermann Camilla
Published: November 2016

Although patients within a transplant program are awaiting or have received disease modifying or curative treatment, they are also facing advanced illness and the possibility of death. The involvement of specialized palliative care services for these patients may improve symptom management and facilitate advance care planning. However, patients in organ transplantation programs have difficulty accessing palliative care resources and often do so only sporadically in the inpatient setting. Currently, there is little access to ambulatory palliative care for these patients and there have been no descriptions of programs delivering such care in the medical literature. We outline the development and structure of a Transplant Palliative Care Clinic within the University Health Network's Multi‐Organ Transplant Program, in Toronto, Canada. This information may be helpful for others aiming to provide early, integrated palliative care to patients awaiting and receiving organ transplantation.
Measuring the speed of newborn object recognition in controlled visual worlds
Authors: Wood Justin N. , Wood Samantha M.W.
Published: November 2016

How long does it take for a newborn to recognize an object? Adults can recognize objects rapidly, but measuring object recognition speed in newborns has not previously been possible. Here we introduce an automated controlled‐rearing method for measuring the speed of newborn object recognition in controlled visual worlds. We raised newborn chicks (Gallus gallus) in strictly controlled environments that contained no objects other than a single virtual object, and then measured the speed at which the chicks could recognize that object from familiar and novel viewpoints. The chicks were able to recognize the object rapidly, at presentation rates of 125 ms per image. Further, recognition speed was equally fast whether the object was presented from familiar viewpoints or novel viewpoints (30° and 60° azimuth rotations). Thus, newborn chicks can recognize objects across novel viewpoints within a fraction of a second. These results demonstrate that newborns are capable of both rapid and invariant object recognition at the onset of vision.
Neural activation patterns during retrieval of schema‐related memories: differences and commonalities between children and adults
Authors: Brod Garvin , Lindenberger Ulman , Shing Yee Lee
Published: November 2016

Schemas represent stable properties of individuals’ experiences, and allow them to classify new events as being congruent or incongruent with existing knowledge. Research with adults indicates that the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is involved in memory retrieval of schema‐related information. However, developmental differences between children and adults in the neural correlates of schema‐related memories are not well understood. One reason for this is the inherent confound between schema‐relevant experience and maturation, as both are related to time. To overcome this limitation, we used a novel paradigm that experimentally induces, and then probes for, task‐relevant knowledge during encoding of new information. Thirty‐one children aged 8–12 years and 26 young adults participated in the experiment. While successfully retrieving schema‐congruent events, children showed less medial PFC activity than adults. In addition, medial PFC activity during successful retrieval correlated positively with children's age. While successfully retrieving schema‐incongruent events, children showed stronger hippocampus (HC) activation as well as weaker connectivity between the striatum and the dorsolateral PFC than adults. These findings were corroborated by an exploratory full‐factorial analysis investigating age differences in the retrieval of schema‐congruent versus schema‐incongruent events, comparing the two conditions directly. Consistent with the findings of the separate analyses, two clusters, one in the medial PFC, one in the HC, were identified that exhibited a memory × congruency × age group interaction. In line with the two‐component model of episodic memory development, the present findings point to an age‐related shift from a more HC‐bound processing to an increasing recruitment of prefrontal brain regions in the retrieval of schema‐related events.
Leisure participation–preference congruence of children with cerebral palsy: a Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment International Network descriptive study
Authors: Imms Christine , King Gillian , Majnemer Annette , Avery Lisa , Chiarello Lisa , Palisano Robert , Orlin Margo , Law Mary
Published: November 2016

Aim

To examine participation–preference congruence, regional differences in participation–preference congruence, and predictors of whether children with cerebral palsy participate in preferred activities.

Method

The sample (n=236) included 148 males and 88 females aged 10 to 13 years, living in Victoria, Australia (n=110), Ontario (n=80), or Quebec (n=46), Canada. Ninety‐nine (41.9%) were classed at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I; 89 (37.7%) at GMFCS level II/III; and 48 (20.3%) at GMFCS level IV/V. Participants completed the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment and Preferences for Activity of Children questionnaires. Regional comparisons were performed using one‐way analyses of variance and factors influencing participation–preference congruence were explored using multiple linear regression.

Results

The proportion of children doing non‐preferred activities in each activity type was generally low (2–17%), with only one regional difference. Higher proportions were not doing preferred active physical (range 23.2–29.1% across regions), skill‐based (range 21.7–27.9% across regions), and social activities (range 12.8–14.5% across regions). GMFCS level was the most important predictor associated with not doing preferred activities.

Interpretation

Children with cerebral palsy did not always participate in preferred active physical and skill‐based activities. Understanding discrepancies between preferences and actual involvement may allow families and rehabilitation professionals to address participation barriers.
Interdisciplinary approach to education: preparing general dentists to manage dental trauma
Authors: Townsend Janice , King Brett , Ballard Richard , Armbruster Paul , Sabey Kent
Published: November 2016

The traditional dental curriculum presents limited opportunities for students to evaluate and treat patients with acute dental trauma. In an effort to increase student experiences, faculty at a dental school initiated and taught an interdisciplinary trauma course from 2014 to 2016. This course was elective, offered in the final year of dental school, and combined student‐led and faculty‐led case‐based discussions of management of traumatic dental injuries with hospital trauma call shadowing. Modifications of the course were made based on student feedback. Preliminary data from student surveys showed a favorable opinion of the course. Attendees were exposed to a higher number of acute traumatic injuries and they expressed greater confidence in their diagnosis and management abilities than their peers.
Novel forest decline triggered by multiple interactions among climate, an introduced pathogen and bark beetles
Authors: Wong Carmen M. , Daniels Lori D.
Published: November 2016

Novel forest decline is increasing due to global environmental change, yet the causal factors and their interactions remain poorly understood. Using tree ring analyses, we show how climate and multiple biotic factors caused the decline of whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) in 16 stands in the southern Canadian Rockies. In our study area, 72% of whitebark pines were dead and 18% had partially dead crowns. Tree mortality peaked in the 1970s; however, the annual basal area increment of disturbed trees began to decline significantly in the late 1940s. Growth decline persisted up to 30 years before trees died from mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae), Ips spp. bark beetles or non‐native blister rust pathogen (Cronartium ribicola). Climate–growth relations varied over time and differed among the healthy and disturbed subpopulations of whitebark pine. Prior to the 1940s, cool temperatures limited the growth of all subpopulations. Growth of live, healthy trees became limited by drought during the cool phase (1947 –1976) of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and then reverted to positive correlations with temperature during the subsequent warm PDO phase. In the 1940s, the climate–growth relations of the disturbed subpopulations diverged from the live, healthy trees with trees ultimately killed by mountain pine beetle diverging the most. We propose that multiple factors interacted over several decades to cause unprecedented rates of whitebark pine mortality. Climatic variation during the cool PDO phase caused drought stress that may have predisposed trees to blister rust. Subsequent decline in snowpack and warming temperatures likely incited further climatic stress and with blister rust reduced tree resistance to bark beetles. Ultimately, bark beetles and blister rust contributed to tree death. Our findings suggest the complexity of whitebark pine decline and the importance of considering multiway drought–disease–insect interactions over various timescales when interpreting forest decline.
Emerging climate‐driven disturbance processes: widespread mortality associated with snow‐to‐rain transitions across 10° of latitude and half the range of a climate‐threatened conifer
Authors: Buma Brian , Hennon Paul E. , Harrington Constance A. , Popkin Jamie R. , Krapek John , Lamb Melinda S. , Oakes Lauren E. , Saunders Sari , Zeglen Stefan
Published: November 2016

Climate change is causing rapid changes to forest disturbance regimes worldwide. While the consequences of climate change for existing disturbance processes, like fires, are relatively well studied, emerging drivers of disturbance such as snow loss and subsequent mortality are much less documented. As the climate warms, a transition from winter snow to rain in high latitudes will cause significant changes in environmental conditions such as soil temperatures, historically buffered by snow cover. The Pacific coast of North America is an excellent test case, as mean winter temperatures are currently at the snow–rain threshold and have been warming for approximately 100 years post‐Little Ice Age. Increased mortality in a widespread tree species in the region has been linked to warmer winters and snow loss. Here, we present the first high‐resolution range map of this climate‐sensitive species, Callitropsis nootkatensis (yellow‐cedar), and document the magnitude and location of observed mortality across Canada and the United States. Snow cover loss related mortality spans approximately 10° latitude (half the native range of the species) and 7% of the overall species range and appears linked to this snow–rain transition across its range. Mortality is commonly >70% of basal area in affected areas, and more common where mean winter temperatures is at or above the snow–rain threshold (>0 °C mean winter temperature). Approximately 50% of areas with a currently suitable climate for the species (<−2 °C) are expected to warm beyond that threshold by the late 21st century. Regardless of climate change scenario, little of the range which is expected to remain suitable in the future (e.g., a climatic refugia) is in currently protected landscapes (<1–9%). These results are the first documentation of this type of emerging climate disturbance and highlight the difficulties of anticipating novel disturbance processes when planning for conservation and management.
Interactions and user‐perceived helpfulness in diet information social questions & answers
Authors: Zhang Yin , Wang Peilin
Published: November 2016

Background

Online health information seeking using social questions and answers (Social Q&A) sites has been increasingly popular in recent years. It calls for better understanding of health information seeking behaviour and interactions between information seekers and information providers.

Objectives

The study investigates how diet information seekers interact with information providers on WebMD Answers, which is a Social Q&A site devoted to health‐related topics, and examines the factors that constitute a ‘helpful’ answer from an information seeker's perspective.

Methods

Bales’ interaction process analysis was applied as the framework to analyse 568 diet‐related Q&As from WebMD Answers to identify interaction patterns.

Results

Most diet information seekers post questions anonymously and without any detailed description. Individual experts or health organisations provide most answers. Overall, answers are positively received and had a high satisfaction rating. It was also found that information seeker‐perceived helpfulness does not depend on who answered the question but to how an information seeker posted the question.

Conclusions

This study indicates that answers at WebMD Answers are helpful for diet information seekers. It sheds new light on the interactions during the Q&A process, preferred site functions and important factors that contribute to perceived helpful answers.
Independent older adults perspectives on oral health
Authors: Khabra KK , Compton SM , Keenan LP
Published: November 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to explore oral health experiences from the perspective of older adults’ living in community dwellings. The two objectives of this study were to identify facilitators and barriers to oral health care, and to determine how utilization of oral health services compares to utilization of other healthcare services.

Methodology

An interpretive descriptive methodology was employed with a purposive sample of 12 adults, aged 70 years or older. The inclusion criterion was English‐speaking seniors residing in community dwellings. Community dwellings were defined as any housing outside of long‐term care or other supportive living facilities. Semi‐structured interviews were 30–80 min, audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Three researchers participated in the comparative analysis process to develop codes, generate categories, interpret patterns and construct themes.

Results

Three central themes surfacing from the data were as follows: life course influences on oral health, transparency in delivery of oral health services and interrelationships between oral health and overall health.

Conclusions

Older adults in this study emphasized the value of establishing collaborative and trusting relationships between oral health practitioners and older adults. Oral health practitioners should be clear and transparent when communicating information about oral health costs and be cognizant of different circumstances from childhood to older adulthood that inhibit or promote routine utilization of oral health services. Including oral health services as part of interdisciplinary care teams could help promote understandings of the reciprocal relationship between oral health and general health and improve oral health status for older adults.
Analytical comparison between two hematological analyzer systems: CAL‐8000 vs. XN‐9000
Authors: Buoro S. , Mecca T. , Seghezzi M. , Manenti B. , Azzarà G. , Dominoni P. , Crippa A. , Ottomano C. , Lippi G.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

This study was aimed to compare the analytical performance of traditional and new parameters and morphological flags of CAL‐8000 and XN‐9000. The automated differential leukocyte count (DIFF profile) and morphological flags were compared with optical microscopy (OM).

Methods

A total of 1025 peripheral blood samples, collected in K3EDTA tubes, were analyzed by CAL‐8000, by XN‐9000, and by OM. Within‐run imprecision was performed in low cellularity samples. The comparison was made using Spearman's correlation, Passing–Bablok regression, Bland–Altman bias, and Cohen's K test.

Results

Within‐run imprecision in low cellularity samples yielded reproducible data between the instruments (imprecision was higher than 10% on samples with platelet count <21 × 109/L using impedance technology). Passing–Bablok regression (CAL‐8000 vs. XN‐9000) yielded slopes ranging between 0.2 to 1.16 and intercepts from −6.54 to 21.63. The bias for leukocytes parameters ranged from −1.8% to −82.2%, the red blood cell parameters from −2.9% to 3.1%, platelets parameters from −27.8% to 26%, and reticulocyte parameters from −115.3% to 4.5%. The comparison of morphological flags yielded a K value always <0.55.

The DIFF profile vs. OM had a Passing–Bablok regression with slopes ranging between 0.34 to 1.00 and intercepts from −0.01% to 0.11 and bias ranging from −42.9% to 2.6% for XN‐9000 parameters and from −2.7% to 35.0% for CAL‐8000 parameters. The comparison of morphological flags showed a K value ranging from 0.35 to 0.77 for XN‐9000 and from 0.17 to 0.54 for CAL‐8000.

Conclusion

Differences exist between the two analyzers, especially in the generation of morphology flags, thus emphasizing the need of pursuing a major degree of harmonization and/or adopting instrument‐specific reference ranges.